Day 8 : DRIVE TO PARO WITH VISITS: TACHOGANG IRON BRIDGE, DZONGDRAKHA GOEMBA & KYICHU LHAKHANG
Leave Punakha after breakfast, recross Dochula Pass (~3,100 m) for panoramic ridge views (weather permitting), then descend toward Paro Valley (~2,250 m). En route, pause at the photogenic Tachogang Lhakhang Iron Bridge, a traditional chain span over the Paro Chhu, before continuing to cliff-perched Dzongdrakha Goemba and the venerable Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
Road note: Today’s drive is typically ~4–5 hours including scenic stops. Mountain roads are winding; sit forward-facing if motion sensitive and keep water/light snacks handy. Your guide manages permits and checkpoints.
Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge: Short access path to a historic iron-chain bridge beside a small temple founded by the great bridge-builder Thangtong Gyalpo. It’s a superb photo stop with fluttering flags and river views.
Dzongdrakha Goemba (“Mini Taktsang”): A cluster of cliff-hugging chapels above Paro’s lower slopes. A modest uphill walk rewards you with quiet courtyards, carved doorways and wide valley outlooks.
Kyichu Lhakhang: Among Bhutan’s most sacred temples (7th century). Orange trees, prayer wheels and butter-lamp glow create a serene setting—particularly atmospheric in late afternoon light.
Etiquette & safety: Shoulders/knees covered for dzong/temple visits; hats off inside shrine halls. Move clockwise around chortens and prayer wheels. On the iron bridge, walk single-file, hold the side cables and avoid bouncing.
Wellbeing & altitude: You’ll ascend from subtropical Punakha (~1,250 m) back to cooler Paro (~2,250 m). Hydrate, add a light layer for the pass, and use sunscreen for open viewpoints.
Practicalities: ATMs and shops are best in Paro town; carry small notes for donations at temples. Photography may be restricted inside certain chapels—ask your guide. Trails/steps at Dzongdrakha can be uneven; wear supportive footwear.
Check in at your Paro hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening—perhaps a short stroll along the river or a tea house visit as prayer flags whisper across the valley.
Today’s summary: Punakha → Dochula Pass → Stops at Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge, Dzongdrakha Goemba, Kyichu Lhakhang • Arrive Paro • Evening at leisure.