Bhutan Explorer: 7 Nights, Ancient Monasteries, Scenic Valleys and Culture

Phuentsholing(2N) → Thimphu(2N) → Punakha(1N) → Paro(2N)

4.7 (84 Reviews)

26 Agents for Thimphu

STAY   3✭ hotels

$ 413

$ 434

4% off

  /person

Compare quotes from 3 agents and get best deals

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Bhutan from Bagdogra Airport / NJP Railway Station take time 4hrs. 170km.
  • Meet and greet upon arrival by our representative at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station.
  • Drive to the Indo-Bhutan Border (Jaigaon-Phuentsholing), enjoying the beautiful scenery of tea garden estates along the way.
  • Upon arrival, check in to the hotel.
  • The evening is free for exploring the local market around Phuentsholing.
  • Overnight stay at the hotel in Phuentsholing.
  • Distance: 170 km
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • After breakfast, complete the immigration formalities.
  • Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, via Gedu, which is located about 9,000 feet above sea level.
  • Enjoy a view of Chukha Dam and stop for a photo session at Wankha Waterfalls.
  • Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to the hotel.
  • Evening free for exploring the local market.
  • Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.
  • The National Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of the third Druk Gyalpo (Head of Kingdom) of Bhutan, the National Memorial Chorten is dedicated to World Peace. The Chorten is popular among locals for various major Buddhist religious festivals and is one of the best places to visit in Thimphu, Bhutan.
  • Buddha Dordenma Statue: Atop a hill in Thimphu, this massive golden Buddha sits atop a gilded meditation hall. Hidden inside are 125,000 smaller Buddhas, meaning there are more Buddha statues in Thimphu than the city’s population of 100,000. It is also known as Buddha Point.
  • Simply Bhutan (Living Museum): This living museum is fully run by youth and supported by the Bhutan Youth Development Fund. It offers a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life, featuring a small collection of typical household objects and tools. Youth guides explain how Bhutanese people traditionally built houses out of mud and made wheat wine. Visitors can try on traditional costumes (Gho & Kira) and take photos for free. Traditional dance performances are also available, and handicrafts can be purchased as souvenirs, supporting the youth.
  • Folk Heritage Museum: One of the oldest traditional houses, this museum is approximately 150 years old and once belonged to an affluent family. The government converted the house into a museum in 2001, providing visitors with fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and way of life. The Folk Heritage Museum features a three-story, 19th-century traditional house that showcases the Bhutanese lifestyle and artifacts from rural households, including typical household objects, tools, and equipment.
  • The Motithang Takin Preserve: For animal lovers, the Motithang Takin Preserve is one of the best places to visit in Thimphu. Originally built as a small zoo, it was later converted into an animal preserve center. The Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, resides in the Motithang Takin Preserve.
  • Sangaygang View Point: Sangaygang is a beautiful viewpoint in Bhutan, home to the tower that transmits the national television channel of Bhutan, BBS. From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a wonderful view of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. On clear, cloudless days, a beautiful panoramic view of the entire city can be captured with a camera, with thousands of prayer flags fluttering in the air.
  • The Clock Tower: Clock Tower Square is an example of great architectural marvel. This tower features four clock faces, distinguishing it from any other building or structure in Bhutan. It is one of the most popular places among visitors, who often come in the evening to enjoy the beautiful paintings and carvings. Numerous restaurants and souvenir shops are located near the tower, making it one of the most visited sites in the town.
  • TashiChho Dzong: This monastery, located next to the bank of the Wang Chhu River, is also known as Thimphu Dzong. The annual three-day Tsechu festival is hosted here every year. TashiChho Dzong was built in 1216 A.D.
  • Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
  • Dochula Pass: Located between Thimphu and Punakha at an elevation of around 3100 meters, Dochula Pass offers a scenic view of the Eastern Himalayas. The pass features 108 stupas, and in winter, it is fully covered with snow, making it a beautiful destination.
  • Punakha Dzong: This is the most beautiful dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers named Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) in Punakha. Mo Chu is widely preferred by first-timers, children, and elderly visitors. Upon visiting Punakha Dzong, guests will be mesmerized by the Bhutanese architectural marvel and have the opportunity to explore the sacred history of this ancient site.
  • Punakha Suspension Bridge: One of the oldest suspension bridges in the world, the Punakha Suspension Bridge in Bhutan is believed to have been built by the Buddhist monk Thangtong Gyalpo. This ancient hanging bridge is adorned with prayer flags and provides an ideal spot for bird watching and nature photography. It is renowned worldwide for its picturesque appearance.
  • Chimi Lhakhang: Also known as Chime Lhakhang, this Buddhist monastery is located in the Punakha District of Bhutan, near Lobesa. It stands on a round hillock and was built in 1499 by the 14th Drukpa hierarch, Ngawang Chogyal, after the site was blessed by the "Divine Madman," the maverick saint Drukpa Kunley (1455–1529), who constructed a chorten at the site.
  • River Rafting: Generally, rafting conjures images of crashing through tumultuous rapids and monstrous waves, with joyful rafters laughing and screaming. However, in the context of rafting in Bhutan, it is a gentle drift down the river, allowing participants to admire the scenery while navigating a few small yet exciting rapids. (Own cost). Overnight stay in Punakha.
  • The Botanical Park: The botanical park is situated within an elevation range that forms the heart of the "tri-junction" of the hill ranges of Sinchula, Helela, and Dochula. It features a botanical garden of rhododendrons and has a lake known as Baritsho Lake, which holds religious significance as local people offer votive offerings there. The park is located in Lamperi, 30 kilometers (19 miles) away from Thimphu.
  • Simtokha Dzong: Built in 1629 and also known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang, Simtokha Dzong was established by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan and is a significant historical structure.
  • Rinpung Dzong: Also known as Paro Dzong, Rinpung Dzong was constructed in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is renowned for its traditional Bhutanese architecture and is one of the top tourist attractions in Paro.
  • Drukgyal Dzong: Drukgyal Dzong is a Buddhist monastery, translated as the ‘Victorious Fortress’. It is the site of several victories over marauding Tibetan invaders and is considered one of the most beautiful and famous archaeological sites in Bhutan.
  • National Museum of Bhutan: An ancient watchtower that now displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks, including traditional costumes, armor, weaponry, and handcrafted implements for daily life. The collections represent the rich cultural traditions of the country.
  • Overnight Stay: Accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Paro.
  • Taktsang Monastery: After breakfast, embark on the Tiger Nest hike (approximately 5 hours round trip). This is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious site. The temple clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley. Taktsang Lhakhang is located approximately 10 km north of Paro town at an altitude of 3,120 meters. To reach the temple, visitors must trek for around 4-5 hours through beautiful, shady pine forests. No trip to Bhutan would be complete without a visit to this stunning heritage site.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang: Also known as Kyichu Buddhist Temple, Kyichu Lhakhang is a pilgrimage site as it is part of the 108 temples built by the king. It is very old, beautiful, and one of the most visited monasteries in Paro.
  • The Hot Stone Bath at Paro: The Menchu (medicinal water) or hot stone bath is a traditional healing practice in which a person soaks in fresh river water mixed with local Artemisia leaves and heated with river stones roasted over a fire. (At own cost)
  • Overnight stay at a hotel in Paro.
  • Paro River: The Paro Chhu flows through the Paro Valley, which is home to one of Bhutan's main towns, Paro, as well as many important monasteries.
  • The two best-known monasteries are Taktsang ("Tiger's Nest" in Dzongkha) and Paro Dzong.
  • Paro Airport View: This is one of the most stunning airports in the world and is also the country’s first and only international airport.
  • With a breathtaking view, this airport has become a must-visit place in Paro.
  • After checking out from Paro city, you will drive to Phuentsholing.
  • Our representative guide will assist you with your immigration exit formalities.
  • Evening free to explore the local market.
  • Overnight stay in Phuentsholing.
  • Cherish your memories.
  • After breakfast, we will proceed to Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station to drop you off.
  • Your Bhutan tour will come to an end at this point.
  • Our representative will assist you with your exit formalities and bid you farewell.
  • Like all good things, your Bhutan trip will conclude here.

Stay & Meal Details

Package Policies

  • Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis.
  • Meals as per the plan.
  • SDF charges (₹1200 per person per night) - Mandatory.
  • Bhutanese guide - Mandatory.
  • One bottle of mineral water per person per day.
  • One tourist SIM card for the group.
  • Exclusive non-AC vehicle for transfers and sightseeing. Please inform guests that the vehicle will not be at their disposal; it will be available as per the itinerary only (point-to-point basis). Vehicle timing is from 9 AM to 5 PM during sightseeing.
  • All permit fees and hotel taxes as per the itinerary.
  • 24/7 assistance during the trip.
  • Rates are valid for Indian nationals only.
  • Airfare / Train fare
  • Entrance Fees (Monument Fees)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips and gratuity, mineral water, soft and hard drinks, and rafting
  • Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicles not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Any costs arising due to natural calamities such as landslides, road blockages, political disturbances (strikes), etc. (to be borne by the client, payable on the spot)
  • Any increase in taxes or fuel prices leading to an increase in costs for surface transportation and land arrangements that may come into effect prior to departure
  • Anything not included in the inclusions
  • Documents required for Bhutan immigration include a Voter ID or Passport (Passport must have a validity of 8 months or more).
  • Children below 18 years can carry a school ID or Aadhar Card along with a birth certificate.
  • Hotels are very strict with their child policy. Please carry proof of age to present if requested by the hotel.
  • A valid photo ID proof for all guests staying at the hotel is mandatory.
  • For an extra adult in the room, we will provide an extra bed (wherever possible); however, most hotels only provide an extra mattress or roll-out bed. Many hotels do not have provisions for an extra bed.
  • The hotels mentioned above will be confirmed based on room availability. Otherwise, a similar category hotel will be provided. All rooms are base category.
  • Cancellation Policy
  • Minimum cancellation fee is Rs. 2000 per person.
  • 25% cancellation fee for cancellations made between 30-20 days before tour departure.
  • 50% cancellation fee for cancellations made between 20-10 days before tour departure.
  • 75% cancellation fee for cancellations made between 10-5 days before tour departure.
  • 100% cancellation fee for cancellations made on the same day or in case of no-show.
  • Please note: Regardless of the above-mentioned cancellation slabs, a minimum service charge of 10% will apply for cancellations made after the booking is confirmed.

Similar Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Browse Other Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Thimphu Tour Package Reviews

Agent: Asia Valleys Tours

Anusha • 2 weeks ago

We had a wonderful experience from start to finish. The entire journey was well (Read More)organized, with comfortable hotels and a thoughtfully planned itinerary. The guide was knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights about Bhutan’s culture, history, and traditions, making the trip even more meaningful. Transportation was excellent, with a clean vehicle and safe, smooth travel throughout the tour. The team’s professionalism, hospitality, and attention to detail made us feel comfortable and well cared for. We highly recommend Asia Valleys Tours & Travels to anyone looking for a memorable Bhutan experience. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
No comments

Agent: Yolmo Holidays

Neha • 2 weeks ago

We did not face any issue during the whole trip. The trip was comfortable and Dr (Read More)ive Namgay and our Guide Pema was were also amazing. We had nice time in Bhutan.

Agent: Cross Over Holidays

Rimsy • 2 weeks ago

Genuine people very humble, the trip was smooth and hassle free.
Hotels

Agent: Arshia Tours & Travels

Bharath • 2 weeks ago

Our sudden trip to Bhutan was a huge success thanks to Arshia Tours and Travels! (Read More) I found their contact on Holidify just 5 days before we wanted to leave. This was our very first package tour, so I just gave them our travel dates, and they planned absolutely everything perfectly. From the seamless pick-up at Bagdogra Airport to our final drop-off, the service was excellent. They booked very good 3-star rooms for us and created a fantastic itinerary that covered all the best places in Bhutan—all while keeping it budget-friendly. They are incredibly helpful at suggesting places and organizing the logistics. Highly recommend them for a stress-free trip!

Agent: Yolmo Holidays

Mrudula • 2 weeks ago

It was a good experience overall from accomodation to guide to driver and the pl (Read More)anning of the trip everything was good and our comfort was taken into consideration at every point

Agent: Memorymakers Vacation

Aarti • 3 weeks ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐ An unforgettable, perfectly tailored Bhutan experience! I recently booked (Read More)a customized Bhutan tour package with MemoryMakers Vacation and they exceeded all my expectations. From the very beginning, their team was responsive and attentive, creating a bespoke itinerary perfectly tailored to our needs. The accommodations were outstanding and seamlessly planned. Every single property selected for us was beautiful, clean, and offered stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The hospitality at each stay was warm and genuine, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. We never felt rushed and had the exact right balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Our tour guide, Mr.Sonam was fantastic and extremely patient, and answered all our questions. Special Thanks to our driver, Mr. Doranji who navigated the winding roads safely and kept our vehicle spotless every single day. I have deducted one star as our smooth experience unfortunately fell short on the final day due to a major transport disappointment and Missed our last sightseeing. The vehicle provided for our last day towards Airport from Phuenstsheling to Bagdogra was uncomfortable, and not up to the standard of the rest of the tour. It was a frustrating end , otherwise it was beautifully curated itinerary. Despite the final day's transport issue, I would still recommend this tour, but I highly advise double-checking your vehicle arrangements.

Bhutan Explorer: 7 Nights, Ancient Monasteries, Scenic Valleys and Culture

Phuentsholing(2N) → Thimphu(2N) → Punakha(1N) → Paro(2N)

4.7 (84 Reviews)

26 Agents for Thimphu

STAY   3✭ hotels

$ 413

$ 434

4% off

  /person

Compare quotes from 3 agents and get best deals