7 Day Amankora Journey

As your Drukair flight weaves through the Himalayan valleys, your arrival into Bhutan is unlike anywhere else in the world. Upon landing at Paro International Airport, travellers often pause on the tarmac in quiet amazement — a moment worth savouring with your camera close at hand. After clearing immigration and receiving your official entry stamp, meet your friendly private guide before beginning the scenic drive to Thimphu, approximately one and a half hours away.

After settling into your lodge, enjoy a gentle introduction to Bhutan’s capital. Visit sites such as the National Memorial Chorten, Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, and if time permits, stroll along Thimphu’s main street to browse Himalayan artefacts and traditional textiles.

Overnight: Amankora Thimphu

This morning, explore the northern reaches of the Thimphu Valley with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and royal offices. Continue to Pangri Zampa, a pair of 16th-century buildings that now house Bhutan’s traditional monastic school for astrologers, offering insight into the spiritual sciences still practised today.

At the head of the valley, those wishing to stretch their legs can enjoy a short hike to Cheri Goemba, the monastery where Bhutan’s first monastic body was established. Back in town, visit local cottage industries specialising in traditional paper-making and weaving, preserving crafts passed down through generations.

Overnight: Amankora Thimphu

Depart early for a dramatic drive across Dochula Pass, descending into the fertile Punakha Valley. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s earliest fortress monasteries, dating back to the 17th century. At the 3,050-metre pass, clear weather reveals sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas crowned by snow-clad peaks.

Continue through the Wangdi Valley to explore Wangduephodrang Dzong and the nearby town temple. Enjoy time to walk through this small riverside town, browsing its intimate local shops, before returning to Punakha Valley. Later in the afternoon, choose between visiting Talo Village, ancestral home of Bhutan’s queens and site of the valley’s protective deity or relaxing closer to the lodge with a hilltop monastery walk, spa time or quiet moments at the farmhouse.

Overnight: Amankora Punakha

Begin the day with a scenic hike from the Amankora Punakha lodge along the Mo Chhu River, passing terraces of rice, chillies and cabbage en route to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a striking monument built by Bhutan’s four queens. After the hike, drive further up the valley, passing Punthsho Pelri Palace and other winter residences of the royal family, before reaching the magnificent Punakha Dzong.

Once the seat of Bhutan’s government, this historic fortress now serves as the winter residence of the monastic order’s head and remains the administrative centre of the region. A picnic lunch is served by the banks of the Punakha Chhu, followed by a visit to Lobesa Village and a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the revered fertility temple built in 1499.

Overnight: Amankora Punakha

After ascending back over Dochula Pass, follow the dramatic river valleys of the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu as you journey towards Paro. Passing through Paro town, continue north to reach Amankora Paro, set peacefully within a pine forest.

The afternoon is at leisure. Enjoy a gentle stroll to nearby ruins, visit some of Paro Valley’s oldest and most sacred temples, or wander along Paro’s main street. Evenings at Amankora may include insightful talks on Bhutan’s history, religion, flora and fauna, or a thoughtfully curated film exploring the Himalayan world.

Overnight: Amankora Paro

Begin the day with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong watchtower, where a rich collection of artefacts offers an excellent introduction to Bhutanese culture and heritage. Walk downhill to the impressive Paro Dzong, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture, before crossing the traditional cantilever bridge Nyamai Zampa.

Continue to the town temple, built in 1525, to admire its ancient wall paintings. Lunch options include a scenic picnic or a visit to a traditional farmhouse for a home-cooked meal. In the afternoon, hike to view one of Bhutan’s most revered landmarks, Taktsang Goemba, better known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The four-hour trek rewards you with spectacular views of this sacred site dramatically perched 900 metres above the valley floor.

Overnight: Amankora Paro

A private vehicle transfers you to Paro International Airport, approximately 30 minutes away. You’re advised to arrive at least one hour before your international departure. As you depart Bhutan, you take with you not only photographs, but a deep sense of stillness and connection shaped by this remarkable Himalayan kingdom.

Thank you for choosing our Bhutan Luxury Tours. Tashi Delek.