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Memoir Shangri-La

9 Nights - 10 Days

Overview

This 10-day Bhutan journey offers an in-depth exploration of the country’s rich culture, pristine landscapes, and spiritual heritage. Covering the key destinations of Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley, and Paro, the itinerary provides a well-paced experience combining cultural sightseeing, scenic mountain drives, and authentic local encounters. Travelers will visit historic dzongs, sacred monasteries, traditional villages, and peaceful valleys, culminating in the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This journey is ideal for those seeking a deeper and more immersive Bhutan experience with a balance of comfort, nature, and cultural discovery.
  1. Warm traditional welcome at Paro International Airport
  2. Explore Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, including Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and local markets
  3. Visit cultural institutions such as the Textile Museum, National Library, and Folk Heritage Museum
  4. Encounter Bhutan’s national animal at the Takin Preserve
  5. Scenic drive across Dochula Pass (3,100m) with Himalayan views
  6. Discover the stunning Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s former capital
  7. Walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge and experience rural village life
  8. Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple)
  9. Optional activities: river rafting, birding, and nature walks
  10. Explore the serene Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Monastery
  11. Opportunity for Black-necked Crane watching (seasonal: Nov–Feb)
  12. Visit historic sites in Paro Valley, including National Museum, Rinpung Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang
  13. Excursion to Drukgyel Dzong and scenic valley views
  14. Hike (or pony ride) to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
  15. Optional traditional Hot Stone Bath experience
  16. Leisure time to explore local towns and markets
Day 01: Arrival in Paro

Warm Welcome at Paro International Airport by Memoir Shangri-La Team and Welcome Tea & short briefing by the Proprietor or the guide. Scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s Capital (about 90 minutes). Evening stroll around Thimphu Town, including Craft Market & Centenary Farmers’ Vegetable Market.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Visit the world’s tallest Buddha Statue, the Tempa Dordema, at Kuenselphodrang overlooking the Thimphu Valley, visit Memorial Chorten which is stupa outside & temple inside. Explore Textile Museum /Textile Academy – the Living Museum at the heart of the city, visit National Library & Archives of Bhutan where one can see the World’s Biggest Book on Bhutan.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Experience with Folk Heritage Museum and get the feel of the olden Bhutanese lifestyle, encounter with Bhutan’s National Animal, the Takin, in an open zoo, visit Tashichho Dzong the Fortress & government seat where one can appreciate Bhutanese massive architectural structure. Evening stroll around Thimphu City (optional).

Overnight in Thimphu.

At Dochula Pass (3100m), enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-clad mountains. Birding on the way (optional). After arrival at Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful fortress and the ancient capital of Bhutan. Walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, built over the Mochu (Female) river. Village walk to experience Bhutanese rural life (optional).

Overnight in Punakha.

After 20-minute drive, a short walk to Chimi Lakhang, the Fertility Temple where couple can implore the deity for a child. Rafting along Phochu/Mochu River (optional). Overnight in Punakha. Stroll around & explore Khuruthang Town (optional).

Overnight in Punakha.

Visit imposing Wangdue Phodrang Dzong (Fortress) and continue to Phobjikha Valley via Pelela Pass (3420m). Drive or walk around, exploring Phobjikha Valley (if Nov-Feb, Black-necked Crane watching).

Overnight in Phobjikha Valley.

Visit Gangtey Gonpa, a highly revered monastery. Panoramic view of Phobjikha Valley from Gangtey Gonpa. Drive to Paro. Lunch on the way. Arrive Paro, check in hotel. Visit the unique Dungtse Temple and explore Paro Town.

Overnight in Paro.

Visit Bhutan’s oldest 7th century temple, the Kyichu Lakhang, drive to Drugyel Dzong, The Fortress of Victory, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum, explore Paro Rimpung Dzong, the Fortress, and walk down to traditional cantilever wooden bridge. Leisure evening in Paro Town (optional). Prepare for next day trek to Taktshang.

Overnight in Paro.

Pleasant hike to a iconic monastery – Taktshang the Tiger’s Nest (approx.. 6-7 hrs round trip including visit inside). Evening, Traditional Hot Stone Bath – a balm after a day’s trek (optional).

Overnight in Paro.

Breakfast at hotel and transfer to Paro International Airport for departure. A memorable farewell by Memoir Shangri-La. Team.

Note:

1. Above itinerary is tentative and can be changed as per guest’s choice & suggestions.
2. Once places of interest are finalized, a detailed itinerary with description will be prepared with tentative timings.
3. On day 4, the other alternative is to go directly to Phobjikha, spend a night there & come back to Punakha & follow the same itinerary.
4. Daily subsistence expenditures may range from US$ 170-200 per day per person, depending upon the season. It will include 3-star hotel room (double occupancy), breakfast and one meal, guide’s fee and transportation but excluding Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$ 100/day/person, One-time Visa Fee US$ 40 per person, monumental entrance fees, cultural & entertaining shows, traditional Hot Stone Bath, surcharge of US$ 40 for single pack per day and US$ 30 per day for 2 pack, single room supplement of about US$ 40/room/night and air fares, both international and domestic.
5. Higher the number of packs, the lower will be the rate.
6. The above rate may change as per the ongoing prices in the market.
7. Customized program like outdoor picnic, cultural shows, rafting, homestay can be arranged at the request of the guest but at additional charges.