7-Day Best of Bhutan Tour

6 Nights / 7 Days

Embark on an 7-day journey that unveils the heart of Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders. This immersive tour blends breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and profound spirituality, offering a truly enriching experience.

Journey to Punakha, a valley of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Admire the majestic Punakha Dzong and stroll through tranquil rice fields. Conclude your trip in Paro, where you’ll visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched dramatically on a cliff, and explore the historic Rinpung Dzong and National Museum.

This 6-day tour by land offers a seamless blend of culture, history, and nature, perfect for travelers seeking an immersive Bhutanese experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this journey promises unforgettable memories in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

8 days Bhutan tour Itinerary

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.
  • Hike through glacial valleys known for its stunning natural beauty immerse yourselves in the pristine environment of the Phobjikha valley.

Itinerary

The 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 arrival in Thimphu, visit; National Memorial Chorten: Probably one of the most popular Thimphu points of interest and visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, also known as the “Buddha Point,” a massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Simply Bhutan is an interactive ‘living’ museum that gives a quick introduction to various aspects of traditional life in Bhutan.

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.

The Centenary Farmers Market (Now Kaja Throm) is a vibrant and dynamic space, offering a diverse range of products and experiences.

Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast, visit Zilukha Nunnery to observe nuns engaged in Buddhist rituals. Hike to the Wangdi Tse Lhakhang, a short yet rewarding trek in Thimphu, Bhutan, offering stunning views of the valley and a chance to visit an ancient monastery. This easy hike is perfect for those looking to enjoy nature while immersing themselves in Bhutanese culture. 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.

After lunch, visit the Post office where you can print your pictures on the official Bhutanese stamps. National textile museum showcases a diverse collection of traditional Bhutanese textiles, weaving techniques, and intricate patterns that reflect Bhutan’s cultural identity.

Visit Changlimithang Archery ground to see local folks play their national sports.

Later visit Tashichho Dzong (Fortress) known as “fortress of the glorious religion,”. It houses the main secretariat building and the central monk body. 

Night Tour: Sangaygang BBS Tower Viewpoint, offering breathtaking nighttime views of Thimphu. The city lights twinkle like stars, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the dark mountainous backdrop. The Tashichho Dzong Viewpoint offers a spectacular night view of this iconic fortress, making it a must-visit spot for those who want to experience the beauty of Thimphu.

Overnight in Thimphu

After breakfast, drive to Gangtey (4 and half hrs). On the way, stop at Dochula Pass.
Dochula Pass is a mountain pass located in the Kingdom of Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas. It sits at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. The pass is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic peaks of the snow-capped Himalayas. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.

Optional: Lungchutse Hike (2 hours): The trail to Lungchutse winds through pristine forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine trees, offering a tranquil and immersive experience in nature.

On arrival in Gangtey, visit Crane information Center where you get information about the valley. Phobjikha valley is also the winter home of Black Necked Cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north (Tibetan plateau) to pass their winter in the milder and lower climate. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and offers incredible scenery.

Overnight in Phobjikha

After breakfast, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours and enjoy the breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley.  During the winter months, we can see the endangered species of birds – Black Neck Cranes.

And visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century, perched atop a small hill that overlooks almost the entire Phobjikha Valley, the spectacular Gangtey Monastery is surrounded by a large village. A must-visit when in Gangtey.

Then, drive back to Punakha (1 and half hrs). On rrival, walk across farmhouses to reach Chimi Lhakhang, A 15th-century fertility temple, blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, who is known as the Divine Madman for his eccentric behaviors. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and many childless couples go to his temple for blessing. 

Overnight in Punakha

After breakfast, 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. It is a beautiful chorten located on a ridge at Kabesa Gewog in Punakha overlooking several villages. It is a 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 which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong, spanning 160m over the Phochu River, and connect the Punakha Dzong (fortress) with the nearby villages and agricultural lands.Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit the longest suspension bridge across the dzong, spanning 160m over the Phochu River, and connect the Punakha Dzong (fortress) with the nearby villages and agricultural lands.

Overnight

Then drive to Paro (3 and half hrs). Visit Chencho Weaving Center in Paro Town, a locally-run weaving center showcases the intricate art of traditional Bhutanese weaving, offering visitors a chance to witness skilled artisans at work.

Later, stroll around Paro downtown for shopping or a cup of coffee.
Namgay Artisanal Brewery: Did you know Bhutan has some of the most reputed and highly enjoyed brews? Well, if you are a beer lover and want to taste some of the finest brews, you must visit the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley.

Overnight in Paro

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. From the road, the hike toward Taktsang follows an uphill route and returning back takes approximately 5-6 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.

Later we welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for Hot Stone Bath. A Bhutanese hot stone bath is the perfect way to relax and wind down after a long day of sightseeing and is also believed to have numerous health benefits. Practice archery at the farmhouse. 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. Later dinner with them and experience their hospitality. A visit gives you an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of Bhutan.

Overnight in Paro

In the morning drive to the Airport for flight to your onward destination.

What's Included & Excluded

Inclusions:

  • A minimum of 3-star accommodation
  • Breakfast Only
  • Bottle of water in the car.
  • A licensed Bhutanese tour guide.
  • Private transport (transfer & sightseeing) Pickup/drop
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Exclusions:

  • Air Transport/Flight
  • Personal Expenses such as Laundry, Tips, etc
  • Monument (Dzongs & Temples) and Museum Fees
  • Drinks & beverages.
  • Travel Insurance (Not mandatory)
  • Bank Charges