Overview
This tour of Bhutan takes you through the cultural and scenic highlights of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Begin with a visit to Paro’s iconic Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, then explore Thimphu’s landmarks such as the Buddha Dordenma and Tashichho Dzong. In Punakha, admire the stunning Punakha Dzong. Enjoy breathtaking views from Dochula Pass and visit the historic National Museum in Paro. The trip culminates with a memorable hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. A perfect mix of culture, history, and nature awaits.
Tour Highlights
- Paro: Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang
- Thimphu: Explore the monumental Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, and National Memorial Chorten
- Punakha: Discover the stunning Punakha Dzong, and cross Bhutan’s longest Suspension Bridge
- Dochula Pass: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan rangeTiger’s Nest Monastery: A thrilling hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Thimphu
- Drive to Thimphu (60km/ 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled at the heart of Himalayas.
- Buddha Dordenma Statue, which offers a spectacular view of Thimphu city. This giant Buddha-statue overlooking Thimphu is one of the biggest in the world.
- Circumambulate Memorial chorten( stupa). This is the favorite spot for the locals of all age to chant mantras, prostrate, pray and practice their devotion.
- The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body.
- Visit the Farmer’s Weekend Market for organic fruits & nuts
- In evening, free to go on a Walking tour around the bustling Thimphu city on your own or with your guide; Hongkong market, Norzin lam, Main traffic area, Wogzin lam, Clock tower etc.
- Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m).
Day 2: Discovering Punakha & Wangdue
- Stop by Dochula pass (3100m) amidst snowcapped mountains to enjoy the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges if the weather is clear.
- As you arrive Wangdue, hike along the Metshina village to Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. (1.5hr hike)
- Visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river.
- Walk on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village
- In evening, time at your leisure.
- Overnight Punakha & Wangdue (Alt; 1240m)
Day 3: Paro Sightseeing & Detour
- After breakfast drive to Paro via stopping for mountain view at Dochula again if the weather is clear.
- On arrival, check in hotel followed by Paro sightseeing
- Ta Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia.
- Rinpung Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels.”
- On the way back, visit Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king.
- Witness an archery match at national stadium played by locals with lots of hue & cry.
- In evening, time at your leisure, free to shop for souvenir at Paro town. Interact with the friendly locals.
- Overnight Paro/ (Alt; 2280m)
Day 4: Excursion to Mystical Taktsang
- After a wholesome breakfast, spend the day hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. (4-5hrs round trip)
- Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view.
- In evening, authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.”
- Overnight Paro/ (Alt; 2280m)
Day 5: Depart from Paro International Airport
- Our representative will bid you farewell at the airport. TashiDelek!
Included
- Visa Fee
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Accommodation in 3 star hotels on twin sharing
- All meals ( breakfast, lunch and dinner )
- Entrance fees for monuments and cultural sites
- Licensed English speaking guides
- Airport transfer and all transportation
- Bottled water during the tour
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Excluded
- International airfare to/from Bhutan
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, shopping, etc.)
- Alcoholic and specialty beverages
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional expenses due to unforeseen events (weather, flight cancellations, etc.)
Good to know
We currently offer two payment methods for tourists to transfer payments for Bhutan tours: Wire Transfer and Wise. However, both methods incur a wire transfer fee of $40 to $50, as Wise payments also require a final transfer to Bhutan via wire.
- More than 45 days before the tour: Free cancellation
- Within 30 days: 35% of the total cost
- Within 21 days: 50% of the total cost
- No-show in Bhutan: 100% of the total cost
Reviews
- Best price guaranteed
- No booking fees
- Book now & pay later