Thimphu Tshechu Festival

Land beneath Paro's forested ridges and drive the river road to the capital, pausing where three valleys' waters meet at Chuzom. This evening, see Tashichho Dzong — seat of King and government — glowing gold against the dark hillside.

Return for the morning's dances while the crowds are at their most vibrant, then climb to Buddha Dordenma for a valley-wide panorama from beneath the 51-metre gilded statue. End at the takin preserve and Zilukha nunnery, where prayer wheels spin above the city.

Drive to Dochula Pass for a horizon of 7,000-metre peaks rising behind 108 memorial chortens, with warm tea at the pass-top café. Return via 17th-century Simtokha Dzong — the kingdom's oldest — before a farewell dinner of ema datshi and red rice with traditional song.