Bhutan Tour Itinerary
Destination
Kathmandu, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
Trip Grade
Easy
Start/ End
Kathmandu – Kathmandu
Best Season
Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Tour Description
A tour of Bhutan offers a journey into a peaceful and breathtaking country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and deep spirituality. Often called the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan is famous for its ancient monasteries, colorful festivals, and beautiful Himalayan scenery.
During your trip, you can explore vibrant towns like Thimphu and Paro, visit iconic landmarks such as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and experience the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people. Along the way, you’ll witness lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, and untouched forests that make Bhutan one of the most unique travel destinations in the world.
Tour Highlights
Scenic Himalayan Flight – Breathtaking aerial views of Mount Everest and the Himalayas on the way to Paro.
Thimphu City Tour – Explore Bhutan’s capital, visiting the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, and local museums.
Dochula Pass Views – See 108 memorial stupas and panoramic Himalayan mountain views.
Punakha Dzong Visit – Discover Bhutan’s most beautiful dzong at the confluence of two rivers.
Chimi Lhakhang Hike – Short and scenic hike to the Temple of Fertility.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike – Hike to Bhutan’s iconic cliffside Taktsang Monastery.
Paro Valley Exploration – Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, Drukgyel Dzong ruins, and enjoy shopping for Bhutanese handicrafts.
Traditional Hot Stone Bath – Relax with a rejuvenating Bhutanese hot stone bath experience (optional).
Bhutanese Cultural Experiences – Witness local markets, art, textiles, and traditional hospitality.
Farewell Dinner – Optional farewell celebration with Bhutanese music and cuisine.
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu to Paro – Transfer to Thimphu (2,320m)
- Fly from Kathmandu to Paro (spectacular Himalayan flight, see Everest if the weather is clear).
- Meet a Bhutanese guide at Paro Airport.
- Drive about 1.5 hours to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city.
- Visit Tamchog Lhakhang (iron bridge temple).
- Leisure time in Thimphu city.
- Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King).
- Buddha Dordenma (giant golden Buddha statue).
- Tashichho Dzong (King’s office and monastic fortress).
- Folk Heritage Museum & Textile Museum.
- Evening free for a local market walk.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 03: Thimphu to Punakha (1,200m)
- Morning drive (~3 hours) to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,050m).
- From Dochula: 108 memorial stupas and panoramic Himalayan views (on clear days).
- In Punakha:
- Visit Punakha Dzong (the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan) at the confluence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers.
- Short hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
- Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.
Day 04: Punakha to Paro
- Drive back from Punakha to Paro (~4–5 hours).
- Simtokha Dzong (the oldest fortress of Bhutan).
- In Paro
- Explore Paro town (colorful shops, handicrafts).
- Relax and prepare for the Tiger’s Nest hike.
- Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Day 05: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery)
- Early morning hike (2–3 hours uphill) to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang).
- Magical place perched on a cliff (3,120m), the most iconic symbol of Bhutan.
- Spend time exploring and visiting monastery caves.
- Return hike and relax at the hotel.
- Free evening in Paro.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 06: Paro Valley Exploration
- Visit:
- Kyichu Lhakhang (one of Bhutan’s oldest temples).
- Drukgyel Dzong ruins (old victory fortress).
- Optional:
- Hot stone bath experience (traditional Bhutanese spa).
- Shopping for souvenirs (handmade crafts, incense, textiles).
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 07: Paro to Kathmandu
- Early morning transfer to Paro Airport.
- Fly back to Kathmandu.
- End of tour!
Day Wise Itinerary with Trek Included
Day 1: Kathmandu to Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
- Fly from Kathmandu to Paro (stunning Himalayan views on the way).
- Pick up by a Bhutanese guide.
- Drive (~1.5 hours) to Thimphu, Bhutan’s peaceful capital.
- En route visit:
- Tamchog Lhakhang (iron bridge temple).
- Evening, explore Thimphu town.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Visit top attractions:
- Buddha Dordenma (massive Buddha statue).
- Memorial Chorten.
- Tashichho Dzong (King’s administrative fortress).
- Changangkha Lhakhang (old monastery).
- Preparation for Trekking (briefing and gear check).
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3: Start Trek – Thimphu to Phajoding (Hike Start)
- Drive to the trailhead (above Thimphu).
- Begin trek to Phajoding Monastery (~3,700m).
- 3–4 hours uphill hike through pine forests.
- Explore Phajoding Monastery, one of the highest-located monasteries.
- Amazing views of Thimphu Valley.
- Overnight camping or stay at a simple guesthouse near Phajoding.
Day 4: Trek to Simtokha / End Trek – Drive to Punakha
- Morning: hike down through forests to Simtokha (~3 hours).
- Meet your vehicle and drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (stop for 108 stupas and mountain views).
- Visit Punakha Dzong — the most beautiful monastery fortress of Bhutan.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha Exploration – Drive to Paro
- Visit:
- Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (short beautiful hike, 1 hour).
- After lunch, drive back to Paro (~4–5 hours).
- En route visit:
- Simtokha Dzong (the oldest fortress in Bhutan).
- Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Day 6: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
- Early morning start.
- 2–3 hours uphill hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) at 3,120m.
- One of Bhutan’s most sacred sites, a dramatic cliffside location!
- Take time to explore, meditate, and photograph.
- Descend and relax in Paro.
- Optional: Hot stone bath in Paro after the trek.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 7: Paro Valley Exploration
- Visit:
- Kyichu Lhakhang (7th-century temple).
- Drukgyel Dzong ruins (old fortress).
- Optional: Farmhouse visit and traditional Bhutanese lunch.
- Last shopping for handicrafts, arts, and textiles.
- Farewell dinner.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 8: Paro to Kathmandu
- Morning transfer to Paro Airport.
- Flight back to Kathmandu.
- End of your Bhutan adventure!
Important Info
Visa: A Bhutan visa is arranged in advance by a Bhutanese tour operator.
Flights: Druk Air / Bhutan Airlines flights connect Kathmandu to Paro.
Tour Package: Bhutan tours must be pre-booked with a licensed travel agency (you can’t travel to Bhutan independently).
Tour Cost: Bhutan’s minimum daily package (MDPR) applies — usually $200–250 per day/person for foreigners (discounts sometimes for Nepalis/South Asians).
Best Time: Spring (March–May) — rhododendron blooms, clear skies. Autumn (September–November) — best views and festivals (Tshechu).
Why Choose Bhutan Tour by Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition?
At Mardi Himal Treks and Expedition, we invite you to explore the magical kingdom of Bhutan, a land of ancient traditions, untouched nature, and stunning Himalayan views. Our Bhutan tour offers a perfect mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and spiritual discovery.
You will visit famous sites like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, explore charming towns such as Thimphu and Paro, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes filled with lush valleys, peaceful villages, and snow-capped mountains. Along the journey, you’ll experience Bhutan’s rich heritage, colorful festivals, and the warm hospitality of its people.
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FAQ's
1. Is Nepal or Bhutan cheaper?
Nepal has been known for being a cheap place to visit. Bhutan, on the other hand, is noted for being one of the most expensive places to visit in Asia.
2. Is food in Bhutan expensive?
Food and Beverages are reasonably priced in Bhutan. You can get a decent meal for INR 250 – 400 per person, excluding drinks.
3. Is alcohol allowed in Bhutan?
Alcohol is legal in Bhutan, but there are restrictions on how much alcohol tourists can buy at one time.
4. What language is spoken in Bhutan?
Dzongkha is the official language spoken in Bhutan.
5. What is not allowed in Bhutan?
Several activities are prohibited in Bhutan, including smoking in public, littering, disturbing natural environments, climbing sacred peaks, and taking pictures without permission.