Bhutan Helicopter Adventure
Soar above the Himalayas and uncover Bhutan’s hidden treasures on a breathtaking helicopter adventure.
6-Night Luxury Bhutan Adventure: Discover the Heart of the Himalayas
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bhutan, where ancient monasteries, pristine valleys, and luxurious comfort come together to create a truly unique experience. This 6-night adventure takes you through three of Bhutan’s most enchanting valleys—Laya, Punakha, and Paro—offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and exclusive stays at the renowned COMO Uma lodges.






Your journey to Bhutan begins with a warm welcome at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff from COMO Uma Paro. From there, a 10-minute transfer will take you to the luxurious COMO Uma Paro, your home for the next few nights.
Highlights of Your Arrival Day
- Warm Welcome at Paro Airport
- Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the COMO Uma Paro team, who will assist you with the short transfer to the resort.
- Check-In at COMO Uma Paro
- Settle into your luxurious room or suite, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Take some time to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the resort.
- Afternoon Sightseeing in Paro
- Paro Town: Embark on your first exploration of Bhutan with a visit to Paro Town. Stroll through its charming streets, browse local shops, and get a feel for the town’s unique character.
- Temple Visit: Visit one of Paro’s ancient temples, such as Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred sites. This serene temple offers a peaceful introduction to Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.
- Acclimatization and Orientation
This gentle afternoon excursion allows you to acclimatize to the altitude and begin to connect with your personal guide, who will be your companion and storyteller throughout your journey.
Today, you’ll embark on a scenic and cultural journey through the enchanting Paro Valley. From the serene Zurig Dzong Monastery to the historic Rinpung Dzong and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang, this day is designed to immerse you in Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
Highlights of Your Day in Paro
- Zurig Dzong Monastery: A Hidden Gem
- Location: Begin your day with a walk through pine forests high above COMO Uma Paro to reach the fortress-like Zurig Dzong Monastery.
- Experience: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding valley.
- Ta Dzong: Bhutan’s National Museum
- Location: Traverse to Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower that now houses Bhutan’s National Museum.
- Experience: Explore the museum’s fascinating exhibits, which showcase Bhutan’s art, culture, and history. The museum also offers magnificent views of Paro Valley.
- Rinpung Dzong: The Fortress on a Heap of Jewels
- Location: Descend to Rinpung Dzong, a majestic fortress that serves as both a religious and administrative center.
- Experience: Marvel at the dzong’s intricate architecture and vibrant murals.
- Nyamai Zam Bridge and Paro Town
- Location: Cross the Paro Chhu River via the traditional covered bridge, Nyamai Zam, and stroll past the main archery ground and Ugyen Pelri Palace.
- Experience: Immerse yourself in the charm of Paro Town, with its quaint streets and local shops.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: A Sacred Temple
- Location: Drive a few kilometers north of Paro to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
- Experience: Pay your respects at this sacred site, known for its magical orange tree that bears fruit all year round.
- Optional: Drukgyel Dzong
- Location: If time permits, drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 to control the northern route to Tibet.
- Experience: Explore the ruins of this historic fortress and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Today, you’ll embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey to the remote Laya Village, often referred to as a hidden paradise. Nestled at 3,800 meters, this enchanting village offers a glimpse into the unique culture and traditions of the Layap people. After exploring this hidden gem, you’ll transfer to the luxurious COMO Uma Punakha for the next leg of your journey.
Highlights of Your Day
- Scenic Helicopter Flight to Laya Village
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Experience: Soar above the Himalayas, enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and pristine landscapes.
- Laya Village: A Hidden Paradise
- Culture: The Layap people call their home ‘Beyul’, a Buddhist term for a hidden paradise. Learn about their belief in an ancient gate that protects the village from invaders.
- Scenic Views: From the village, enjoy views of majestic peaks like Gangchen Tag (6,784m), Tshendag Gang (6,994m), Khang Bum (6,494m), and Masa Gang (7,194m).
- Activities:
- Visit a Laya temple to learn about the spiritual traditions of the Layap people.
- Try yak riding, a unique and memorable experience.
- Enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
- Transfer to COMO Uma Punakha
- Journey: After your time in Laya, your vehicle will be waiting at Zomlingthang to transfer you to COMO Uma Punakha.
- Duration: Approximately 20 minutes.
- Experience: Settle into your luxurious lodge, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Punakha Valley.
Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the lush and fertile Punakha Valley, a region known for its spiritual landmarks, historic fortresses, and stunning landscapes. From the sacred Chimmi Lhakhang to the majestic Punakha Dzong and the serene Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, this day is designed to connect you with the heart and soul of Bhutan.
Highlights of Your Day in Punakha
- Chimmi Lhakhang: The Fertility Temple
- Location: Begin your day with a short walk through farmhouses and rice paddies to reach Chimmi Lhakhang.
- History: Built in the 15th century, this temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman,” a Tibetan Buddhist saint known for his unconventional teachings.
- Significance: The temple is a pilgrimage site for couples seeking blessings for fertility and is surrounded by a peaceful, picturesque landscape.
- Punakha Dzong: The Palace of Great Happiness
- Location: As you head further down the valley, the 300-year-old Punakha Dzong comes into view.
- History: Built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan, this fortress once housed the country’s government.
- Significance: Today, it serves as the winter residence of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, and is home to 1,000 monks.
- Experience: Marvel at the dzong’s intricate architecture, vibrant murals, and serene courtyards.
- Lunch: A Taste of Bhutanese Cuisine
- Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring traditional Bhutanese dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: A Shrine of Peace
- Location: After lunch, embark on a scenic walk through homesteads and farmland to reach the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
- History: This shrine was recently built by the royal family and is dedicated to peace and harmony.
Experience: Enjoy the serene surroundings and panoramic views of the Punakha Valley.
Today, you’ll embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey from Punakha to Paro, offering aerial views of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes. From the majestic Punakha Dzong to the towering Mount Jhomolhari and the serene turquoise lakes, this flight is a visual feast that will leave you in awe.
Highlights of Your Day
- Scenic Helicopter Flight
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Route: Fly from Zomlingthang (Punakha) to Paro Valley, passing over:
- Punakha Valley and Punakha Dzong.
- Dochula Pass, with its alpine mountains and 108 chortens.
- Mount Jhomolhari (7,314m), marking Bhutan’s western border with China.
- A turquoise lake nestled among uncharted peaks, near the permanent snow line.
- Yak herder camps dotting the rugged landscape.
- Drukgyel Dzong and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, visible as you descend into Paro Valley.
- Transfer to COMO Uma Paro
- Journey: Upon landing at Paro International Airport, your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to COMO Uma Paro.
- Duration: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Experience: Settle into your luxurious lodge, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Paro Valley.
- Afternoon at Leisure
- Relaxation: Spend the rest of the day unwinding in the calm setting of COMO Uma Paro.
Activities: Try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport, or enjoy the resort’s wellness facilities.
Today is the highlight of your Bhutan journey—a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery), one of the most sacred and breathtaking sites in the world. Perched on a cliffside at 3,120 meters, this monastery is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or a thrilling hike, this experience will leave you in awe.
Highlights of Your Day
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: A Spiritual and Scenic Marvel
- Location: Perched on a cliffside in the Paro Valley, the monastery is a 2-3 hour hike from the valley floor, ascending over 2,000 feet.
- Legend: According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in a cave here. The site became sacred after he emerged in eight manifestations.
- Experience: The hike is a blend of physical challenge and spiritual discovery. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the valley and the monastery’s dramatic setting.
- The Hike: A Journey of Discovery
- Trail: The trail winds through pine forests, past prayer flags, and offers several rest stops with breathtaking views.
- Spiritual Significance: As you ascend, feel the spiritual energy of this sacred site, which has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.
- Monastery Tour: Once at the top, explore the monastery’s temples, caves, and prayer halls, each filled with ancient relics and vibrant murals.
- Optional: Visit Remote Temples
- If time permits, continue further up to visit remote temples for an even deeper spiritual experience.
- Lunch: A Well-Deserved Break
- Enjoy a picnic lunch or dine at the Taktsang Cafeteria, which offers stunning views of the monastery and valley.
- Relaxation at COMO Uma Paro
- Facilities: After your hike, unwind in the resort’s steam rooms, gym, or swimming pool.
- Spa Treatments: Indulge in a signature COMO Shambhala treatment to rejuvenate your mind and body.
As your unforgettable journey through Bhutan comes to an end, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to this magical Himalayan kingdom. Over the past week, you’ve explored ancient monasteries, hiked to sacred sites, immersed yourself in Bhutanese culture, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Today, we ensure your departure is as seamless and heartfelt as your arrival.
Highlights of Your Departure Day
- Final Moments in Bhutan
- Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had—whether it was the spiritual serenity of Tiger’s Nest, the cultural richness of Thimphu, or the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people.
- Photos and Memories: Flip through your photos and cherish the stories you’ll take home with you.
- Transfer to Paro International Airport
- Timing: Your 10-minute transfer to Paro International Airport will be arranged according to your flight schedule.
- Experience: Enjoy a stress-free ride, accompanied by your guide, who will ensure you reach the airport with plenty of time for your departure.
- A Promise to Return
- As you board your flight, take one last look at the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys of Bhutan. This magical kingdom will always welcome you back with open arms.