On this 8-day private tour, we’ll visit some of Bhutan’s most beautiful places, including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, and more! It’s a trip full of tradition, stunning temples, and monasteries that will make you fall in love with this incredible country.
Tour Details
Day 1: Arrival in Bhutan - Thimphu
You will be greeted upon arrival at Paro Airport. After clearing passport control, we’ll drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, on a scenic one-hour journey.
Once in Thimphu, if time permits, we’ll visit the Tashichoe Dzong Fortress. Depending on your flight’s arrival time, we may be able to fit in additional visits, all of which are included in the price.
Day 2: Thimphu
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we’ll begin our day with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a grand stupa built in honor of Bhutan’s third head of state. Next, we’ll explore the towering golden Dordenma Buddha, the National Library, and a handmade paper factory—ideal spots to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture.
We’ll then visit the Takin Reserve to observe this unique species and other wildlife. Following the reserve, we’ll savor a delicious local lunch. With renewed energy, you’ll have free time to explore the town at your own pace before returning to your hotel in Thimphu to relax for the evening.
Day 3: Thimphu - Punakha
After breakfast, we’ll depart Thimphu and journey toward the lowlands of the Punakha Valley. Along the way, we’ll pass through stunning mountain scenery adorned with hundreds of colorful prayer flags and the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Our tour will continue through the Royal Botanical Park of Lamperi and the village of Lobesa, where we’ll visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple.
At the temple, we’ll learn about Lama Drukpa Kunley, famously known as one of the "divine madmen" of Tibetan Buddhism. His controversial philosophy is quite fascinating! The temple is also known as a place where many women hoping to have children come to pray. Interesting, right?
We’ll finish the day by arriving at our hotel in Punakha, where you can rest up for the next day’s adventures.
Day 4: Punakha
After an early breakfast, we’ll head north to visit the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten. Along the way, we’ll stop at a nunnery perched atop Walakha Hill.
Upon arriving in the Chorten area, we’ll take a 45-minute uphill walk, crossing a suspension bridge over rice fields to reach this impressive structure. Next, we’ll visit Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Happiness, beautifully situated between the Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Our final destination will be Wangdiphodrang, where we’ll explore the Dzong and the local market. There, we’ll stroll through shops offering bamboo, slate, and stone-carved handicrafts, gaining a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. We’ll wrap up the day back at the hotel in Punakha. See you tomorrow!
Day 5: Punakha - Phobijkha
After breakfast, we’ll set off for Phobjikha, a stunning valley nestled at around 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) above sea level. Upon arrival, we’ll take in the valley's lush natural beauty and visit the majestic Gangtey Gonpa, a temple of Nyingmapa Buddhism, one of Bhutan’s prominent religious sects.
After exploring the temple, we’ll embark on a hike through the Phobjikha Valley, home to the rare black-necked cranes that migrate from Tibet. As we walk, we’ll be surrounded by vibrant oak and azalea forests, creating a breathtaking landscape to enjoy.
Day 6: Phobijkha - Paro
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our journey to Paro, with a stop at the scenic Dochula Pass. Along the way, we’ll visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1627. As we admire its historical architecture, we’ll also learn about its modern role as home to the School of Buddhist Studies.
We’ll then continue to Paro, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel to relax for the rest of the day.
Day 7: Paro
On the final day, we’ll embark on one of the most iconic excursions of this trip. After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head to Tiger’s Nest, or Taktshang Monastery, perched on a narrow ledge 900 meters above the valley. We’ll hike up to enjoy breathtaking views, and although the climb takes between 2 to 3 hours and can be challenging, the reward will be well worth the effort.
Afterward, we’ll return to Paro, where you’ll have the entire afternoon free to explore the town at your leisure.
Day 8: Return flight
After breakfast, we will accompany you to Paro Airport, where we'll bid farewell and wish you a safe journey.
All-Inclusive Trip
The price includes 7 nights of accommodation with breakfast, lunch, and dinner, transfers to and from Paro International Airport, and transportation throughout the country. An English-speaking guide will be with you for the entire tour, and all entrance fees to the monuments listed in the itinerary are covered.
In other words, all you need for the tour is a round-trip flight to Paro and 8 days in Bhutan. For example, if you arrive on a Saturday, you’ll need to return the following Sunday.
Accommodation Info
This tour includes 7 nights of accommodation in 3-star hotels in Thimphu, Punakha, Phobijkha, and Paro. The price is based on double occupancy per person. If you're traveling alone, a single supplement will apply.
- Thimphu (2 nights): Amodhara Hotel or similar
- Punakha (2 nights): Khuru Resort or similar
- Phobijkha (1 night): Odiyana Resort or similar
- Paro (2 nights): Rema Resort or similar
How to Get to Bhutan?
You can reach Bhutan from Kathmandu, New Delhi, or Bangkok. The two airlines that fly to Bhutan are Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines. We recommend you to buy your air tickets well in advance, as seats are quite limited.
