Nature & Spirituality
Journey Through Culture
Overview
This 7-day journey is the perfect introduction to the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. From the vibrant capital of Thimphu to the serene Punakha Valley and the breath-taking hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, you’ll experience the essence of this magical country. Discover ancient fortresses, meet friendly locals, and immerse yourself in stunning landscapes. This all-inclusive tour offers a seamless blend of cultural discovery and natural beauty, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.
Duration
7 days
Group Size
2+
Avg Walking Dist
3-5 KM
Tour Grade
Easy
Tour Seasons
March-May, September-November
Accomodation
Hotels/Homestay
Tour Highlights
- Spectacular hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang).
- Explore the serene Phobjikha Valley and experience rural Bhutanese lifestyle.
- Visit majestic Buddhist dzongs and monasteries in Punakha, Thimphu, and Gangtey.
- Stroll through the vibrant streets of Thimphu and the quaint town of Paro.
- Discover the unique culture of the Black-Necked Cranes and hike the scenic Gangtey Nature Trail.
Detailed Itenary
Day 1
Arrival in Paro (2,250m) & Transfer to Thimphu (2,320m)
- Morning/Afternoon: Your flight into Paro is one of the most spectacular in the world, offering thrilling views of the Eastern Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Jomolhari (Bhutan’s sacred mountain). Upon arrival, complete immigration formalities and meet your guide and driver.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the capital city, Thimphu, following the beautiful Paro and Thimphu rivers.
- Evening:
- Check into your hotel and acclimatize to the altitude.
- Take a leisurely stroll through Thimphu’s vibrant central streets.
- Visit the Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion), the majestic seat of Bhutan’s government and central monastic body. It is beautifully lit up in the evening.
- Overnight: Thimphu
Day 2
Exploring the Capital, Thimphu
- Morning:
- Visit the Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic 169-foot bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni overlooking the valley. The statue houses over 125,000 smaller bronze statues inside.
- Explore the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honour of the third king. Join locals in circling the stupa—a deeply spiritual experience.
- Afternoon:
- Head to the Motithang Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s unique national animal, the Takin—a creature that looks like it was assembled from different animals.
- Visit the Institute for Zorig Chusum (13 Arts & Crafts), where students train in Bhutan’s traditional arts, such as painting, sculpture, and weaving.
- (Optional) For a deeper cultural insight, visit the National Folk Heritage Museum or the Textile Museum.
- Evening: Free to explore the weekend market (if applicable) or relax.
- Overnight: Thimphu
Day 3
Thimphu to Punakha (1,300m) via the Dochu La Pass (3,100m)
- Morning: After breakfast, embark on a stunning drive. You will ascend to the Dochu La
- Pass, a sacred mountain pass adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens (stupas). On a clear day, the panoramic view of the Himalayan range is breathtaking.
- Mid-Morning: Enjoy a warm tea or coffee at the pass’s cafeteria while soaking in the views.
- Afternoon: Descend through lush forests into the balmy Punakha Valley.
Visit the Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness). Arguably Bhutan’s most beautiful dzong, it sits majestically at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male) and Mo Chhu (Female) rivers. This is the winter seat of the Central Monastic Body. Take a short, scenic walk across a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River.
- Late Afternoon: Visit the Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), a unique temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley. The walk to the temple through rice fields and traditional villages is delightful.
- Overnight: Punakha
Day 4
Punakha to Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley (3,000m)
- Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning in Punakha. You may opt for a short, easy hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful temple offering spectacular views of the valley.
- Afternoon: Drive to the Phobjikha Valley, a wide, glacial valley and one of Bhutan’s most important wildlife preserves. The drive takes about 3 hours, with beautiful scenery along the way. This valley is the winter home (Oct-Feb) of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes. Even outside crane season, the valley is stunningly beautiful and serene.
- Late Afternoon:
- Visit the Gangtey Goemba, a large Nyingma Buddhist monastery that sits on a hill overlooking the vast valley.
- Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail (approx. 1.5 hours), a beautiful downhill hike through forests and meadows into the valley floor, offering magnificent views.
- Overnight: Phobjikha Valley
Day 5
Phobjikha Valley to Paro (2,250m)
- Morning: Enjoy the crisp, fresh air of the valley. You can visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to learn about these majestic birds and the conservation efforts to protect them (highly recommended if the cranes are present).
- Begin the scenic return drive to Paro (approx. 6 hours with stops). The journey is long but incredibly picturesque. You will stop for lunch on the way.
- Evening: Upon arrival in Paro, you have free time.
- You can explore the small and charming Paro town.
- Visit a traditional farmhouse to experience local life and perhaps enjoy a hot stone bath—a perfect way to soothe muscles before the Tiger’s Nest hike.
- Overnight: Paro
Day 6
The Iconic Hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery (3,120m)
- Full Day: This is the highlight of many trips to Bhutan.
- Start early to avoid the afternoon sun and crowds.
- The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 2-3 hours to ascend and 1.5-2 hours to descend. Ponies are available for hire to cover about half the distance.
- The monastery clings to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The final approach involves descending into a gorge and climbing back up to the monastery entrance.
- The effort is rewarded with an awe-inspiring sight and a profound sense of peace. (Note: Photography is not allowed inside the main temple).
- There is a cafeteria halfway up where you can stop for lunch and enjoy a stunning view of the monastery.
- Late Afternoon: Return to your hotel in Paro to rest and celebrate your achievement.
- Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner with your guide and driver.
- Overnight: Paro
Day 7
Depart from Paro
- Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final Bhutanese breakfast.
- If time permits, you can visit the National Museum of Bhutan (housed in the ancient Ta Dzong) or the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong.
- Airport Transfer: Your guide and driver will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your departure, bidding you a heartfelt “Tashi Delek” (goodbye and good luck).
Tour Package Conditions
Inclusions
- Sustainable development fees and internal taxes
- Accommodation in certified 3-star hotels (4/5-star upgrades available).
- All meals throughout the trip.
- A licensed, English-speaking Bhutanese trekking guide.
- A private driver and comfortable tourist vehicle for all transfers.
- All entry fees to museums, monuments, and cultural sites.
Exclusions
- Flight tickets.
- Alcoholic, sparkling water, and soft drinks.
- Tips for guides, drivers and trekking crews.
- Personal shopping and expenses.
Travel Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
Packing Essentials
- Layered Clothing: Weather changes quickly. Include a warm layer (fleece/down) even in summer.
- Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Essential for the Tiger’s Nest hike.
- Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket is advisable.
- Daypack: For carrying water, camera, and layers during hikes.
- Respectful Attire: Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required for dzongs and temples (long pants/skirts, shirts with sleeves).
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. The sun is strong at high altitudes.
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