Experience the rush of whitewater rafting in Bhutan as you navigate glacier-fed Himalayan rapids through lush valleys and unspoiled wilderness. Set on the scenic rivers of Punakha, this adventure is ideal for families, friends, and solo travelers seeking thrilling water sports amid pristine Himalayan landscapes.
8 Days>
1 & above
Easy>
Hotels/ Homestay
4–5 Hours
Mar-may, Sep-Oct
Enjoy one of the world’s most scenic mountain flights into Paro, offering stunning views of towering Himalayan peaks, where our representative will greet you after arrival. After lunch, explore Paro’s highlights with visits to Ta Dzong Museum and Rinpung Dzong, then drive along the Pa Chu River to Thimphu for an overnight stay.
Spend the day exploring Thimphu’s key sights, including the National Memorial Chorten, the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, the National Library with its ancient Bhutanese scriptures, and Tashichhodzong, seat of the government and monastic body. If visiting over the weekend, stroll through the lively Thimphu Market to see local produce, handicrafts, and traditional goods. Overnight in Thimphu.Continue to Punakha, walking through rice fields and along the river to reach Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, perched on the hill of Ngezergang and adorned with Nyingmapa art. Visit Metshina Village and take a short walk to the sacred Chimi Lhakhang fertility temple. In the evening, stay at a farmhouse near Chimi Lhakhang, prepare mushroom datshi with the host family, and enjoy a traditional dinner. Overnight in Punakha.
Drive across Dochula Pass (3,100 m) for panoramic Himalayan views before descending into the warm Punakha Valley, with a total drive of about three hours. Once Bhutan’s former capital, Punakha is home to the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.”
Begin the day with a drive to Yabesa and a gentle walk across rice paddies leading to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, commissioned by Her Majesty Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. Enjoy whitewater rafting on the river, pause for a scenic picnic lunch by the water, then explore Wangduephodrang Dzong, a 17th-century fortress strategically set above the meeting point of two rivers and central to Bhutan’s early history.
Return to Thimphu with time to browse local handicraft and souvenir shops, stopping en route at Semtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress built in 1627 and now home to the Institute for Language and Culture Studies. Continue onward to Haa via the scenic Chelela Pass, offering sweeping views of Paro and Haa valleys, Mt. Jomolhari, and the surrounding Himalayan ranges, before descending through pine forests to the quiet Haa Valley for an overnight stay.
The stunning Haa Valley, recently opened to visitors, is a fertile and scenic region perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Explore the ancient Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo—the White and Black Temples—built in the 8th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo after two doves were sent to identify this sacred site.
Begin the day with a hike (or horse ride) to Taktsang Monastery, perched nearly a kilometre above Paro Valley. In the afternoon, visit the recently restored Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1644 by Shabdrung to commemorate his victory over Tibetan invaders.
You will bid farewell to this beautiful country and take your flight, carrying with you lasting memories of its charm and culture.
