Overview
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Western Bhutan, a region steeped in tradition and natural splendor. Explore the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro, the vibrant streets of Thimphu, and the serene Phobjikha Valley, known for its black-necked cranes and glacial landscapes. Marvel at the majestic Punakha Dzong, set against lush rice fields and rivers. This journey through Bhutan’s western heartland offers a perfect blend of ancient heritage, spiritual landmarks, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. From ancient fortresses and sacred temples to pristine valleys and vibrant festivals, Western Bhutan is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, this region promises a journey of discovery and wonder.
Tour Highlights
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro): Hike to Bhutan’s most iconic cliffside monastery, offering stunning views and spiritual serenity.
- Thimphu Exploration: Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Tashichho Dzong, and the vibrant local markets in Bhutan’s capital.
- Phobjikha Valley: Discover the glacial valley, home to black-necked cranes, and enjoy its peaceful, scenic beauty.
- Punakha Dzong: Marvel at the "Palace of Great Happiness," a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture set at the confluence of two rivers.
- Dochula Pass: Stop at this scenic mountain pass with 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views.
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Thimphu
- Get blessings at the oldest temple Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king.
- Visit Paro Ta Dzong, an ancient watch tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia.
- Rinpung Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels.”
- In evening drive to Thimphu (drive 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled in the heart of the Himalayas.
- Free to roam around Thimphu town on your own or with your guide.
- Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m).
Day 2 : Thimphu Cultural Tour
- Drive to Sangay-gang where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is found in captivity.
- 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.
- Visit to Craft Bazaar for authentic local handicraft and
- Circumambulate around Memorial Chorten (huge stupa).
- Visit the Farmer’s Weekend Market for organic fruits & nuts
- The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body.
- In the evening walking tour, in Thimphu city
- Overnight Thimphu.
Day 3 : Gangtey Rural Expedition
- Drive on different vegetation of alpine, subtropical and glacial. Phobjikha is a glacial valley on the north western tip of the Black Mountain. It’s also one of the roosting grounds of the Black-necked cranes.
- En route stop by Dochula pass (3150m) to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. Stroll around 108 stupas and enter Drukwangyel (Royal temple).
- On arrival, embark on the Nature trail hike across the refreshing Blue-pine forest to Kewa village (1hr hike). Try homemade tea & local snacks at village home.
- Visit the Crane Info Centre to watch the Black Necked Cranes in their natural inhabitants
- Free to walk around village or drive to your hotel for rest.
- Overnight Phobjikha (2900m)
Day 4 : Discovering Punakha & Wangdue
- In morning, visit Gangtey gomba; the largest Nyingma Monastery of the kingdom. Interact with the monks and sit silently in the prayer room.
- En route drive for mountain-view at Pele La pass (3,300m). It’s common to spot yaks along this pass.
- On arrival, visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river.
- Try walking on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village
- Easy 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.
- Overnight Punakha & Wangdue (Alt; 1240m)
Day 5 : Getaway to Dzongdakha & Paro Detour
- En route stop for coffee at Drukwangyel Café and enjoy distant snowcapped mountains.
- After check in at Paro, visit the Dzongdakha Monastery. This ancient beautiful monastery is also a pilgrim spot for the locals.
- Witness an archery match played by locals!
- In evening, leisurely stroll around Paro town and shop for souvenir.
- Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m)
Day 6 : Excursion to Mystical Taktsang
- After a wholesome breakfast,hike up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. Tiger’s Nest clings to sheer cliffs of 900m above Paro valley. The climb is steep and takes about 4-5hrs round trip.
- Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view.
- In evening; if interested, you have an option to learn the art of cooking some famous Bhutanese delicacies like Ema Datsi, Kewa Datsi and Bjasha Maru at the farmer’s house.
- Authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.”
- Hot stone bath, ( not included in the tour price ) . River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing.
- Overnight Paro
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
- 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
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