Quest for Happiness
08 Nights / 09 Days
Pick/Drop: Paro Airport
Private Tour
Overview
Embark on the “Quest for Happiness” with our exclusive luxury Bhutan tour itinerary. Experience the serene beauty of Bhutan, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and enjoy world-class accommodations on this journey designed for ultimate relaxation and spiritual fulfillment. Escape the fast-paced hustle and bustle of city life and journey to the tranquil Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. Here, you can breathe in the crisp, clean air, find calmness, slow down, be present, and tap into the healing power of nature that Bhutan has to offer. This serene destination promises a rejuvenating retreat, far from the stresses of modern urban living.
Tour Highlights
- Hike the Taktsang ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, one of Bhutan’s architectural highlights
- Visit the 300-year old Punakha Dzong which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River).
- Explore the bustling capital Thimphu, including sights like the Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial Chorten and more
- Enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas from the Dochu la mountain pass
- Walk across Farm Houses to reach Chimmi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple
- Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten situated on a ridge above the Punakha Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.
- Visit the College of Astrology and Learn your Bhutanese name and your fortune in a fascinating sitting with a Buddhist monk.
- Take a Talo village walk offering a chance to explore the serene rural life and cultural heritage of the country.
- Hike through glacial valleys known for its stunning natural beauty immerse yourselves in the pristine environment of the Phobjikha valley.
- Meditation class at the Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College).
- Hike to Tango Monastery, surrounded by lush forests, offering a peaceful environment for study and contemplation.
What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions:
- 2 nights at Le Meridien Thimphu, including picnic lunch at Tango Base.
- 2 nights at Gangtey Lodge with Mediation session at Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College)
- 2 nights at Pemako Punakha with dynamic Yoga session
- 2 nights at Como Uma Paro with Hot stone Bath & massage
- All meals
- A licensed Bhutanese tour Guide
- All transport (transfer & sightseeing)
- Monument (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
- Sustainable Development Fee & Visa Fees.
Exclusions:
- Air Transport/Flight
- Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc
- Drinks & beverages.
- Travel Insurance
- Bank Charges
Itinerary
The early morning flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848 m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (50km) which takes approximately an hour. On the way visit;
Tachogang Iron Chain Bridge, located along Paro-Thimphu highway, before Chhuzom. It is just a 10 minutes walk from the highway. It is a great spot for photography with a stunning view and peaceful ambience.
After arriving in Thimphu,visit; National Memorial Chorten: Probably one of the most popular Thimphu points of interest.
Royal Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin – Bhutan’s national animal.
The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is reputedly the best place that manufactures traditional paper. You can buy this unique paper here which will make for interesting souvenir gifts.
The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences. Walk through Bhutan’s capital city exploring Clock Tower Square, a prominent landmark adorned with intricate Bhutanese motifs and stroll towards Thimphu’s iconic traffic junction, famously known as the main traffic circle as it has no traffic lights. Instead, you’ll witness a white-gloved traffic officer gracefully directing vehicles in a choreographed style that has become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Lastly Tashichhodzong visit. This magnificent structure stands proudly on the banks of the Wang Chhu River and serves as both a religious and administrative hub of Bhutan. Now it houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King and central monk body.
Overnight at Le Meridien Thimphu.
Tango Buddhist Institute: Set around 14 kilometers away from the city center, the Tango Buddhist Institute is a place of serenity set in the picturesque valley of Thimphu. The temple can be reached through a hike (1 hour approximately) through the scenic mountains and alpine woods, which is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Thimphu.
On the way visit Pangri Zampa – Astrology College and seek and find out your astrology birth chart.
Lunch at the Folk Heritage Restaurant in Thimphu offers a delightful opportunity to savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine in a traditional setting. Located next to the Folk Heritage Museum, the restaurant complements the cultural experience with its unique ambiance and carefully curated menu.
The Folk Heritage Museum a restored 19th-century traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Bhutan.
Bhutan Postal Museum: Fascinating Stamps: If you have any sort of interest in philately, then you should definitely stop by the National Post Office in Thimphu. You can even create personalized stamps with your photo on it. It will be an interesting souvenir to bring back home.
The National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Arts and Crafts School, is an educational institution in Bhutan dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. “Zorig Chusum” translates to the “13 traditional arts and crafts” in the Dzongkha language of Bhutan.
The Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar in Thimphu offers a unique shopping experience, showcasing traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and artisanal products.
Overnight at Le Meridien Thimphu
Dordenma Buddha statue: Atop a hill in Thimphu, the capital and largest city of Bhutan. This massive statue of Buddha measures about 51.5 meters.
Drive to Gangtey and stop at Dochula Pass. We won’t deny the fact that Dochula is a 40-minute drive from Thimphu but it is definitely worth the visit especially for those who are looking for Thimphu sightseeing places. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal chortens.
Check in to Gangtey Lodge.
After breakfast immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings of our Valley by hiking ancient trails through blue pine forests or meander past the crane roosting grounds on the valley floor to visit our neighbours. Gangtey Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan for hiking.
Join the evening meditation class at the Shedra. The Gangtey Shedra (Buddhist College), a 5-minute walk behind Gangtey Lodge where approximately 300 monks study. The Shedra is an institute where the monks learn about Buddhist philosophy, poetry, logic, meditation and debate. In addition to the regular academic practice and classes for monks, the Shedra provides a meditation class and discussion for our guests, mainly on compassion and shamata (tranquility and calm abiding meditation) by highly qualified lamas, with English translations. This meditation practice will help you overcome stress, develop a peaceful mind and to generate kindness.
Overnight at Gangtey Lodge
Join the monks at the Shedra for an early morning Thrusel ritual, for self-cleansing of all bad spirits surrounding us and for good luck. Buddhist fumigation is a ritual practiced by the Bhutanese every morning and during special pujas (religious ceremonies). Selected herbs are burnt and holy water (thrue-chhu) is poured over one’s head for purification. It is a common belief that every place has its local protective deity or spirit and the fumigation is to please the spirit and keep the spirit happy.
After breakfast drive back to Punakha (2 hrs).
Visit Chimi Lhakhang Temple
Chimi Lhakhang Temple or Chimi Lhakhang Monastery is the most well-known temple of Bhutan which stands tall on a round hillock in a village called Punakha. It is famously known as the “Fertility Temple” and is mostly visited by several childless couples from in and around Punakha District.
Overnight at Pemako Punakha
After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Khasum Yulley Namgyal is a beautiful chorten located on ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha overlooking several villages. It is 30-minute drive from the Khuruthang Town and a 45-minute uphill hike from the base of the hill through suspension bridge and rice fields.
Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses that sits at the confluence of the Mo Chhu (Female) and Pho Chhu (Male) rivers. To access the dzong, you’ll need to cross the Bazam Bridge, originally a bridge built in the 17th century.. Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Its magnificent structure showcases the world-class architecture of Bhutan and finest Bhutanese craftsmanship. Punakha Dzong is truly one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and one of the most visited places by tourists.
After lunch, drive to Talo village. Talo Village is a picturesque settlement located in the Punakha District of Bhutan. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level, Talo is known for its stunning natural beauty, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. Visit a local home for a Bhutanese tea (Suja) and snacks.
Back to hotel Pemako and rejuvenation and self-discovery in with dynamic yoga. Led by seasoned experts, immerse yourself in an invigorating experience. Release daily stress as you find tranquility, awakening, and deep inner connection. Let our skilled instructors guide you through poses and breath, fostering vitality and harmony within.
Overnight at Pemako Punakha
After breakfast, drive to Paro (3 hrs).
Rinpung Dzong: Rinpung houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts. Famous as Paro Dzong, it was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan.
Check in to Uma Como and practice Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. With our archery lessons, your guide will set up the targets and teach you the rules, as well as how to correctly hold the bow.
Darts are another popular pastime in Bhutan, with a different scoring system to the western tradition, and a target low to the ground. Both sports are a fun way to spend an afternoon, enjoying some healthy competition.
Overnight at Uma Como
Start a early morning hike to Taktsang Monastery. The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. The monastery was built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye who is said to be one of the reincarnations of Guru Rinpoche.
From the road, the hike toward Taktshang follows an uphill route and takes approximately 2-3 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.
After the hike stroll around Paro town for souvenirs.
After the hike enjoy Hot Stone bath at the hotel. This uniquely Bhutanese experience comprises of a bath and massage that uses heated river stones to help relieve deep-set aches and pains. When placed in water, the hot stones crack and steam, releasing key minerals that help to aid stress and soothe the body. The treatment concludes with our signature COMO Shambhala Massage.
In the morning drive to Airport for your onward destination.
It is 20 minutes to the airport from our Lodge
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Yes, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Discuss your interests with your tour operator to customize your experience.
We offer a minimum of 3-star rated accommodations to Luxury Resorts, certified by the Department of Tourism, Bhutan.
Our selection of 3-star accommodations has been carefully curated based on top ratings and consistent positive feedback from our past clients. These hotels offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic Bhutanese hospitality.
We also offer Homestays with a local family that can give you an authentic Bhutanese experience. Rooms are typically modest but comfortable, often featuring traditional Bhutanese décor.
Send us the scan copy of your passport and passport sized photos, we will apply on your behalf. Read more about the visa here.
A correctly input visa application can take up to five days to process.
There is a one-off fee of US$40 for the processing of your application. This is payable at the same time as your Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), as part of the process of submitting your visa application.
EXCELLENT Based on 122 reviews Posted on Len T3 April 2026Verified An amazing experience! I just finished a 6D/5N tour of Bhutan with OMSHA including Thimphu, Punakha and Paro. From the very first inquiry by email, all the way through to saying goodbye at the airport at the end of the tour, it truly was a fantastic experience! OMSHA go out of their way to ensure you have a wonderful time and cater to every need and question you might have. Given that I wanted to customise my tour in various ways, this really helped. Many thanks to my guide Lhazin and driver Azha for a stellar and memorable experience in Bhutan!, and to Nawang for helping me plan the tour through multiple emails and WhatsApp messages. I seriously can't find a single minor fault even. Would recommend OMSHA in a heartbeat.Posted on Deepthi3 April 2026Verified A Truly Hassle-Free Bhutan Experience Thanks to Omsha Travels I had an amazing experience with Omsha Travels during our recent 10-day trip to Bhutan, and I genuinely want to appreciate the exceptional service provided by Nawang and his team. From the very beginning, everything was thoughtfully planned and seamlessly executed. We didn’t face a single issue throughout the trip - all arrangements, from transportation to itinerary planning, were handled perfectly. A special shoutout to our guide Ugyen and our driver Sonam, who were incredibly supportive, friendly yet professional and made our journey smooth and enjoyable throughout. What really stood out was how smoothly they handled unexpected situations and external challenges. During our journey from Bagdogra Airport to Phuentsholing, there was a high-profile movement due to the Chief Minister’s visit in West Bengal, which could have easily caused delays and confusion. However, everything was managed so efficiently that we didn’t face any inconvenience at all. Even during immigration, our guide ensured the process was quick and hassle-free. Also, since it was a festive season in Bhutan, accommodations were in high demand - but despite that, Nawang and his team managed to secure us good, comfortable hotels. Thanks to their planning, we even got the opportunity to experience and visit a local festival, which became one of the highlights of our trip. What truly impressed me the most, however, was the way Nawang handled an unexpected situation on our last day. We had initially been booked at a hotel(where we had stayed on the first day here as well), but this time the experience was extremely disappointing - the rooms were in poor condition, had a bad odor, and the service was not up to the mark. Despite requesting a room change, the hotel staff did not cooperate. The moment we informed Nawang, he immediately stepped in and took ownership of the situation. Without any delay, he arranged an alternative hotel for us, which turned out to be far, far better - hygienic, comfortable, and exactly what we needed after a long trip. His responsiveness and problem-solving in that moment really showed how much he values his customers’ comfort and experience. What impressed me even more was his honesty and professionalism - he informed us that he has decided to discontinue working with that hotel moving forward because of this incident. That level of accountability and integrity is rare. I would also like to highlight that Omsha Travels is listed on Bhutan’s official government tourism platforms, and after experiencing their service firsthand, I can confidently say they truly live up to that recognition. We also had the chance to meet Nawang in person, and he is truly humble, grounded, and very genuine - qualities that clearly reflect in his work. If you’re planning a trip and looking for someone reliable, responsive, and customer-focused, I would highly recommend Omsha Travels. They don’t just plan trips - they ensure you have a smooth, stress-free, and memorable experience throughout. Thank you once again, Nawang, Ugyen, Sonam & the team for making our Bhutan trip so special!Posted on Nithin N3 April 2026Verified Seamless Planning and Exceptional Service in Bhutan When searching for a Bhutanese tour operator, I found Omsha Travels via the official Bhutan tourism website, and it was a total godsend. Led by Nawang, Omsha Travels is a truly genuine operator. Nawang is incredibly responsive and communicates promptly. We initially planned a nine-day tour but later decided to extend it to ten days, and the team accommodated the change seamlessly. They offer highly competitive rates alongside stays at the best hotels available. Our journey began in Bagdogra, and Nawang provided our driver details well in advance. Despite some road blocks and commotion due to the Indian elections, the situations were handled expertly. Upon entering Bhutan, we met our guide, Ugyen, who navigated the immigration formalities with ease. Throughout the trip, they shared the rich history and stories behind every temple and dzong we visited, They also accompanied us on various hikes with a lively and tireless spirit that kept us motivated. Our trip coincided with the Paro Tshechu, which is the busiest time of year, yet Omsha Travels still secured excellent accommodation in the heart of the city. Our driver, Sonam, was exceptionally calm and patient throughout the entire journey. When we encountered an issue with one of our stays, Nawang resolved it the moment he was notified. His genuine concern for the experience of his guests is clear. I highly recommend them for anyone looking for a seamless trip to Bhutan!Posted on Pornima K3 April 2026Verified Amazing We recently completed a 7-night Bhutan trip with Omsha Travel, and it turned out to be one of the most special experiences of my life. I’m from Nashik, India, and while I’ve traveled to several countries, this was the first international trip for my parents. Choosing Bhutan was the best decision—it’s peaceful, welcoming, and perfect for a relaxed family trip. A big thank you to our guide, Ugyen Sonam, who truly made this journey unforgettable. He was incredibly warm, knowledgeable, and always went the extra mile to ensure our comfort. When we faced food issues in Phobjikha, he personally took us to a great local restaurant in his own car. During the Tiger’s Nest hike, he patiently supported my mother throughout, making the experience enjoyable and stress-free. Sonam shared deep insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and food, answering all our questions with enthusiasm. His positive energy and kindness made us feel at home. We also appreciated the thoughtful gesture from the owner, Nawang, who met us in Thimphu and gave us souvenirs—it added a very personal touch to the trip. The entire experience—from comfortable stays to skilled drivers and unique highlights like the hot stone bath in Paro and homemade rice wine at a homestay—was exceptional. We especially loved the simplicity and warmth of the Bhutanese people. One thing that really stood out—when I casually mentioned I wanted a book to learn more about Bhutan, he surprised me with a Lonely Planet book. It honestly made me so happy. I would highly recommend Omsha Travel and Sonam to anyone planning a Bhutan trip. Truly a memorable and heartwarming experience!Posted on Meander2222724181325 March 2026Verified Memories to Cherish I had the most wonderful experience travelling in Bhutan with Omsha Travels. The trip was wonderfully organised with our queries being answered immediately. From day 1 to day 6, we had a hell of a time with days gone by learning and understanding the culture and exploring the serenity and tranquillity Bhutan had to offer. Our guide, Ugyen Tshewang, was an absolute gem of a person, kind, patient, always ready to listen, and full of great humour. A special shoutout to Acho Wangchuk, our driving partner, for driving us safely through the roads of Bhutan. Both of them, along with Mr Nawang Dorje, made my first trip outside India memorable. Thank you again, Omsha Travels.Posted on craw2018 March 2026Verified Exceptional service and warm hospitality I have just enjoyed a 6 day trip with my daughter to Bhutan organised through OMSHA travel. My initial contact was with Nawang who runs the company and his correspondence was always prompt and helpful. We fine tuned the itinerary a couple of times and he was patient and accommodating throughout and before we even arrived in Bhutan we felt confident we would be well looked after. Our guide was Namgay and our driver Jimmy. Both were outstanding. We have travelled the world and I can say that Namgay is one of the most knowledgeable guides I have met. She takes great pride in her work and has studied the history of Bhutan in great depth and there wasn’t a single question she couldn’t answer in an engaging and interesting way. Her pride in her country and her role as a guide shines through. Jimmy our driver was very careful on the roads and very helpful and courteous carrying items for us during mountain treks. He was always one step ahead anticipating when we may need a water or a rest. We couldn’t have asked for more from both of them and would highly recommend them if you are considering a trip to Bhutan. We visited Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Thank you!Posted on Jenny13 March 2026Verified A Dream Trip to Bhutan Thanks to OMSHA Travel We are a family group who recently completed a 10-day trip to Bhutan visiting Punakha, Bumthang, Phobjikha, Thimphu, and Paro, organized by OMSHA Travel. From start to finish, OMSHA Travel went far beyond our expectations, and we are so grateful to have had one of the most amazing and memorable trips thanks to their wonderful team. From the very beginning, Ngawang was always extremely responsive, courteous, and patient in answering my many questions. He was also very accommodating when it came to fine-tuning and customizing the itinerary to suit our wishlist. Our tour guide, Ugyen Sonam, and our driver, Namgay, were truly the best guide and driver we could have imagined. They make a fantastic team and played a huge role in making our visit to Bhutan so smooth and unique. Ugyen is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Bhutanese history, religion, and culture. Throughout the journey, he shared many fascinating stories, helping us gain a much deeper understanding of the monasteries, festivals, and traditions that we encountered along the way. His thoughtful insights and warm personality made every visit even more meaningful and engaging. Namgay was an exceptional driver—always calm, attentive, and incredibly careful on the mountain roads. His attention to detail, patience, and caring nature made us feel safe and comfortable throughout the entire trip. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and ensured that every part of the journey ran smoothly. Both Ugyen and Namgay worked incredibly hard throughout the trip to ensure our experience in Bhutan was truly special. If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, having such a knowledgeable guide and careful driver truly makes the journey much more meaningful and enjoyable. From attending the Tshechu festival to visiting beautiful monasteries, from watching the rare black-necked cranes to hiking to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), from trekking alongside pristine rivers to learning about local Bhutanese culture—every single day was filled with laughter, wonderful surprises and unforgettable memories that we will carry with us long after returning home. Thank you once again to the OMSHA team for your warm hospitality, friendliness, and professionalism in making our Bhutan journey a dream come true! By the end of the trip, we felt we had not only discovered Bhutan, but also made some wonderful friends along the way. We highly recommend OMSHA Travel to anyone planning a trip to Bhutan.Posted on Chintha T8 March 2026Verified Travelling with Omsha travels is an experience you will always cherish We went for a 9 day trip to Bhutan with Omsha travels and the experience was awesome. Right from the beginning of our planning via Whatsapp, Mr.Nawang Dorje was always quick to respond to my each and every query and he prepared a suitable itrenary as per our requirements. The pick up and drop from Baghdogra to Baghdogra and all the siteseeings from Phuentshelling, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, Paro , each and every thing was impeccable. Our guide Mr. Ugyen Tshewang and driver Mr. Wangchuk were very experienced and they made our journey comforable and funfull. Being an all woman team, we felt very safe and secure with them. I recommend Omsha travels to everyone who wants to visit Bhutan.Posted on Saahil D6 March 2026Verified Bhutan, But Even More Special We had the most amazing Bhutan experience thanks to Omsha Travels, and more so, thanks to our guide Dorji Lhazin and driver, Gyep Tshering. Right from the moment we landed at Pheuntsholing, up to dropping us back, both of them were a part of our journey, as more than just companions, sharing anecdotes, experiences, jokes and of course, stories of Bhutan. Over 8 days, we covered Punakha, Phobjika (a proactive recommendation by the agent), Thimphu and Paro. But in reality, Dorji and Gyep made us experience all of Bhutan at once. The vivid and wonderful Punakha Tsechu at the majestic Punakha Dzong, the breathtaking Phobjika valley, the towering Dordenma Statue and last, but definitely not least, the life-changing march to Paro Takhtsang, among many others will be some memories I carry back with me, and treasure forever. This trip was made even more memorable due to the thoughtful actions of our agent, Gyep and Dorji, who not only accommodated our every wish, but also adjusted everything to our budget. From the hotels selected, to the roads chosen, the treks hiked to the meals savoured, they made every bit of Bhutan even more special. P.S. We loved our time here so much, that as I sit here writing this from Pheunshotling, one day before we bid adieu to Bhutan, we’re already planning our return trip to Central and East Bhutan (Hope you’ll be ready to welcome us again Dorji, Gyep and Omsha Travels! ;)Posted on Cris J27 February 2026Verified Experiência única Experiência única. Conhecer o Butão de forma leve e tranquila. Nossa guia Sonam foi muito dedicada e o nosso motorista Nawang mostrou muita habilidade nas muitas curvas das estradas.
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