Jakar Tshechu, Bumthang and Phobjikha

Arrive at Paro International Airport and take the road transfer to Thimphu. On the way, stop to view Tachogang Lhakhang with its historic iron chain bridge, followed by a pause at Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers. Continue to Thimphu, check in to your hotel and rest. You will spend the night in Thimphu.

Spend a full day exploring Thimphu after breakfast. Begin at the grand Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley, then continue to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum to see students practising traditional arts and crafts. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, browse the Weekend Market, and watch an archery match, Bhutan's national sport. Return to your hotel in Thimphu for the night.

Depart Thimphu after breakfast and drive across Dochula Pass, pausing to admire the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Himalayan mountain views depend on clear weather. Descend into the warm Punakha Valley to tour the grand Punakha Dzong at the river confluence, then walk across the nearby suspension bridge. Settle in for an overnight stay in Punakha.

Start early after breakfast for the long road drive from Punakha into central Bhutan. Stop to admire the Nepalese-style Chendebji Chorten and explore Trongsa Dzong, perched high above the Mangde Chhu gorge. Continue over the 3,400-metre Yotong La pass, taking in the rugged mountain scenery as you descend into the Bumthang Valley, referencing the Jakar area. Check in to your hotel in Bumthang for the night.

Reserve the full day for the Jakar Tshechu in Bumthang. Official festival dates guide the programme as you watch monks and local performers enact sacred cham mask dances accompanied by traditional horns, cymbals and drums. The festival grounds are filled with local families in their finest traditional dress, celebrating spiritual blessings and community heritage. Return to your Bumthang hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, take a scenic excursion to Ura Village, known for its traditional clustered stone homes, cobbled pathways, and the separate annual Ura Yakchoe festival. Continue to Mebar Tsho, also known as the Burning Lake, a sacred river pool where Pema Lingpa revealed spiritual treasures. Because of strong water currents, view the pool strictly from designated viewing areas without entering the water. Return to Bumthang for the night.

Drive from Bumthang to the serene, wide glacial valley of Phobjikha after breakfast. Visit Gangtey Gompa, an important Nyingmapa monastery set on a ridge above the valley floor. Spend time exploring the surrounding village and enjoying the quiet valley landscapes. Black-necked crane sightings are seasonal. Settle in for an overnight stay in Phobjikha.

Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre after breakfast to learn about the ecology of the valley. Enjoy a scenic walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, taking in views across the wetlands. Afterward, begin the long road journey back to Paro. On arrival, visit the fortress-monastery of Rinpung Dzong beside the Paro Chhu. Overnight in Paro.

Dedicate today to the climb up to Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger's Nest. This iconic monastery clings to a cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor. The hike requires good fitness and takes several hours round trip on mountain trails. After descending, you may opt for a traditional hot-stone bath at your own cost. Stay overnight in Paro.

Enjoy breakfast, check out of your hotel, and take your scheduled transfer to Paro International Airport. Match the transfer timing to your flight check-in. Your journey through Bhutan concludes here.