A 7-Day Journey Through the Land of Happiness

5.0 (5 reviews) Paro, Bhutan
Duration7 days
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

On this 7 day tour of Bhutan, you’ll experience the wonders of western Bhutan that many only dream of visiting. While it’s a fast-paced journey, it promises to enrich your soul and spirit with the very essence of Bhutan. You’ll hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, learning about its fascinating history, and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s unique architecture and culture. We'll share captivating stories of the legendary "Divine Madman" of Punakha. A scenic trail walk with breathtaking views of Phobjikha Valley will offer insights into Bhutan's efforts in nature conservation, and you’ll have the opportunity to wear Bhutan's traditional national dress—gho for men and kira for women. This tour is designed to give you a deep and meaningful connection with Bhutan’s heritage and natural beauty.

What's included

  • Monument fees per person payable to Dept. of Culture
  • Visa Service Assistance
  • All accommodations
  • Hot-stone bath (value-added with no extra cost)
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • SDF fees (100 USD per night) and visa application fees (40 USD) included
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Breakfast
  • Drinking mineral water in the car
  • Twin-sharing accommodations at 3-star hotels certified by Tourism Council of Bhutan.
  • English-speaking tour leader and driver
  • All meals included
  • SDF and Visa application Fees included
  • Entrance fee for all the site visits.
  • All personal expenses like laundry, telephone, tips, shopping expenses
  • Travel and Medical insurance
  • Bhutan flights tickets
  • Spa Charges (except for the traditional hot-stone bath)
  • Single room supplement
  • Use of bicycle
  • Luxury hotels/resorts available on supplement cost

What to expect

Day 1: Arrival to the Land of Happiness
  1. Paro
    Pass by
    Upon your arrival at Paro Airport, your guide will be there to greet you and assist you in settling into the car.
  2. Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge
    45m · Admission ticket included
    As you make your way towards the capital town of Thimphu, take a brief pause to admire what remains of the iron bridge crafted by Thangthong Gyalpo at Tachog Lhankhang. Following this stop, your journey continues to Thimphu, where your guide will escort you to your hotel for a quick check-in and a brief period of relaxation.
  3. Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Next, you'll proceed to visit the National Memorial Chhorten.
  4. Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong)
    2h · Admission ticket included
    After exploring this significant site, your day's itinerary includes a visit to Tashichhodzong, the fortress which now serves as the Central Administration Headquarters of the Government.
  5. 2h · Admission ticket included
    Cap off your day with a delightful dinner experience at Babesa Village Restaurant, where you'll be treated to authentic Bhutanese cuisine served in a traditional Bhutanese ambiance.
Day 2: Discovering Thimphu
  1. Buddha Dordenma
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Begin your day with a drive up to Buddha Point to visit the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma Statue, a monumental tribute to Shakyamuni Buddha nestled in the Bhutanese mountains, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
  2. Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan
    1h 40m · Admission ticket included
    Descend to the Royal Textile Museum to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Bhutan's living textile arts.
  3. Bhutan Postal Museum
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Next, continue your exploration to the Bhutan Post Office, where you can delve into the fascinating history of our postal services. Here, you'll also have the opportunity to create personalized stamps featuring your own photo and send postcards to your loved ones back home.
  4. 45m
    Take a leisurely stroll along Norin Lam to witness the unique human traffic signal, a testament to Bhutan's distinctive approach to traffic management, relying on police officers rather than traffic lights at major intersections.
  5. Wangdi-tse Monastery
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Following lunch, venture up to the BBS Tower and embark on the Wangditse Trail, leading you to the serene Wangditse Lhakhang. At the Lhakhang, be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of Tashichhodzong and the panoramic vista of Thimphu Valley. Alternatively, explore Kaja Throm, where locals gather to sell and buy organic vegetables and fruits. Conclude your day with a brief respite back at the hotel before indulging in dinner at one of the town's premier restaurants.
Day 3: Tranquility in the Himalayan Haven
  1. Dochula Pass
    3h
    Embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, with a delightful pause at Dochula Pass (3100m). If the weather graces us, prepare to behold the awe-inspiring, snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Perhaps, amidst this panoramic vista, you might catch a glimpse of Gangkhar Phuensum (7570m), the crown jewel of Bhutan's mountainous landscape.
    Descend into the enchanting Punakha valley, where a sumptuous lunch awaits at one of the town's most esteemed restaurants.
  2. Pass by
    After a satisfying meal, resume your journey towards the serene Phobjikha valley. Your guide will ensure a seamless transition to your accommodation, where you can unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. Consider concluding your day with a rejuvenating hot stone bath experience, a soothing indulgence to melt away the day's adventures (advance booking required, additional charges apply).
Day 4: Sacred Serenity
  1. Gangtey Monastery
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Explore the renowned Gantey Gompa, an esteemed monastery belonging to the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism and serving as the principal seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition. Nestled in the Wangdue Phodrang District of central Bhutan, this sacred site offers a profound spiritual experience.
  2. Phobji Nature Trail
    2h
    Following your visit, embark on a captivating hike around the Gangtey Valley, traversing a serene nature trail that meanders through the picturesque landscape, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

    The trail culminates at the bowl-shaped glacial valley, where your driver awaits to transport you onward.
  3. Black Necked Crane Center
    1h 30m · Admission ticket included
    the fascinating ecosystem and learn about the significance of these majestic birds in Bhutanese culture and conservation efforts.
Day 5: Punakha Discovery
  1. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
    3h · Admission ticket included
    Begin your day with a picturesque hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chhorten, offering breathtaking views as you traverse through verdant paddy fields. From this vantage point, marvel at the majestic panorama of the valley below. The temple itself stands as a remarkable testament to Bhutan's architectural and artistic prowess, representing a unique treasure in the world.
  2. Punakha Dzong
    2h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Next, journey to Punakha Dzong, renowned as the most exquisite fortress in Bhutan. Admire the intricate details adorning this magnificent structure, where the head of Bhutan's clergy and his monks reside during the winter months.
  3. Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Continuing your exploration, venture to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, gracefully perched on a ridge amidst fragrant pine trees. From this elevated vantage point, behold the sweeping vistas of the Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys, while gleaming structures of the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang stand as a testament to Bhutan's spiritual and architectural grandeur.
    Drive to Paro to conclude this enriching day of cultural immersion and scenic delights.
Day 6: Mystical Wonders of Paro
  1. Paro Taktsang
    5h · Admission ticket included
    On this concluding day, prepare for an extraordinary experience as you hike up to Paro Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. This iconic sanctuary, dating back to 1692, holds a captivating history behind its name, making it a highlight of your tour.
  2. Rinpung Dzong
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Following your visit to Taktsang Monastery, continue your exploration with a stop at Ta Dzong, originally erected in 1649 as a watchtower to defend the nearby Rinpung Dzong from potential Tibetan invasions. Descend to Rinpung Dzong, serving dual roles as the local government office and a revered monastery, offering insights into Bhutanese heritage and governance.
  3. Paro District
    2h
    Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll to the ancient traditional bridge, where nearby shops offer the opportunity to attire yourself in Bhutan's national dress. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the charming town before relishing in a heartfelt farewell dinner, reminiscing on the unforgettable moments of your Bhutanese odyssey.
Day 7: Farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon
  1. Paro District
    Pass by
    Departure from Paro, Bhutan.

    Or if time is on our favour, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, before heading to the airport.Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon and depart for your onward journey.

Additional information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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