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Trip description

Discover Bhutan on a thoughtfully designed journey through its most beautiful and meaningful places. Begin in Thimphu, where tradition blends seamlessly with modern life, before traveling to Paro to experience the vibrant Paro Tsechu Festival, one of Bhutan’s most celebrated cultural events. Continue to the riverside Punakha Dzong, journey through Trongsa to the spiritual heartland of Bumthang, and enjoy the serene beauty of Phobjikha Valley. Conclude your journey in Paro with a visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. With less time on the road and more time to connect, this journey offers a true sense of Bhutan’s culture, nature, and spirit.

Trip Duration

12 Nights/13 Days

Route

West to Central Bhutan

Trip Style

Active Cultural tour with Easy Hikings

Trip Rating
★★★★★

By Popularity

Start / Finish

Paro / Paro

Transport

Excellent condition SUV

Group Leader

Certified Tour Leader from BTN

Accommodations

Starting from 3 Stars to 5 Stars

Trip Overview
  • Day 1: Welcome to Bhutan
    The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, offering dazzling scenic views of world’s highest glacial peaks of Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga, and our very own Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey.

    As you enter the Paro valley, you will skim over forested hills with the silvery Pachu ( or Paro river) meandering down the valley below the Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (watch tower) on the hill above the town.

    Upon arrival you’ll be received by our courtly guide who will help you settle into your comfortable Bus , before proceeding to Thimphu, the capital.

    Enroute stop to visit the Tamchog Lhakang and marvel at the iron bridge reconstructed using original chain links from the famous Tibetan bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.

    In Thimphu, you will check into your hotel for ashort rest, while our guide reviews the day’s sightseeing schedule. A visit to the Memorial Chorten, a sacred shrine built in the memory of the third king, is a must. Located close to the city-centre, it’s one of the most sacred monuments, where elderly Bhutanese, turning prayer wheels or counting beads, will be seen circumambulating it throughout the day.

    Followed by the visit to Tashichho Dzong Bhutans Administrative and religious centre. it houses the throne room of His majestic the king of Bhutan, government ministries, the nation’s largest monastery and the headquarter of Holiness the Je-khenpo (the chef abbot).

    In the evening, stroll down to the national stadium to observe a game of archery, the national sport of Bhutan, played over a 140m long field. Drive back to the hotel for a short rest before dinner at the hotel.

  • Day 2: Easy Exploration around the capital city of Thimphu
    Afterbreakfast drive to visit to Buddha Point – a gigantic statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha. The statue is filled with over one hundred smaller statues each of which like the Buddha itself, it is made of bronze and gilded. At the height of 59.5 metres, it is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world. Enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city and hike from Buddha Point to Changangkha. The hike takes you through thick blue pine forests, with perfect views of Thimphu valley. The two-hour hike was initially intended to be a cycling trail but had been opened as part of the celebrations to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of the fourth King of Bhutan.

    Proceed to Zorig- Chusum school 13 traditional arts/crafts, the Royal Textile Museum and Academy. Stroll around town and visit the Bhutan Post Office where you can see the famous Bhutanese stamps.If you would like, you can make stamps with your photos on it and post them to your loved ones.
    After lunch in town visit Jungshi Paper factory, to observe how traditonal handmade paper, Deh-sho, is manufactured from the barks of Daphne or Dekap tree. Traditionally the paper was used by the monks to write prayers texts and manuscripts. The factory also has a small shop which sells the handmade paper along with other products such as books, cards, paper bags, lamp shades, and etc.

    Drive to Sangay Gang and hike to Wangdetshe Gomba which offers spectacular views of Thimphu City and takes approximately an hours in total at a leisurely pace. This is a popular place for locals to enjoy nature, viewpoints, and ride on the mountaibiking trails.

    There are small handicraft shops along the main street, just outside the textile museum which may have objects of your shopping interest.

  • Day 3: Hike on Trans-Bhutan Heritage Trail to Punakha

    After breakfast, drive to Dochula Pass (3140m). Sitting atop the pass with the backdrop of fluttering prayer flags is Druk Wangyal Chorten, a collection of 108 chortens (stupas) that were built to epitomise the greatness of the Fourth King.

    Depending on your physical ability, we can break it down to two sgments – we recommend the Lungtsezelkha hike – a lovely route that passes through Rhododendron forests and alpine vegetation. Here you might come across some yak herds. From Dochula Pass, it climbs up to the peak where the Lungtsezekha temple stands at 3800m. From here, you can see the great Himalayan peaks of northern Bhutan as well as the valleys of southern Bhutan.

    For an easier hike, you can take the segment of the Trans-Bhutan Trail – (an old heritage trail known popularly as the “Madman trail”, a paradise for local bike riders that was revived recently). Starting from Lamperi and descending to Thinleygang village, this trail goes through dense old forests strewn with flowering rhododendrons, a good habitat for birds, while passing through scenic villages. If you feel like a long but easy hike, we recommend this trail from Lamperi all the way to Laptsakha in Punakha (15 km).

    Then drive to the valley of Lobesa to visit Chimmi Lhakhang, one of the most unique and enchanting monastery, dedicated to ‘The Divine Madman’ known for his crazy wisdom. It is also called the fertility monastery. Childless married couples come here to seek the blessing of the deity for children. It only takes a short pleasant hike through a beautiful village surrounded by paddy fields from the roadhead.

  • Day 4: Punakha valley sightseeing with easy day hikes on Trans-Bhutan Trail
    Drive to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 45 minutes to the hilltop where the temple is located. From here you can also enjoy a majestic view of the underlying valley. The temple itself is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions and the only one of its kind in the world. From here you can optionally take another great hike from the riverside crossing a suspension bridge to the other side of the Mo Chu River for approximately 3 km with hours of hiking.

    A picnic lunch will be served on the banks of the Punakha River. Here you’ll probably see locals enjoying a game of archery – the national sport of Bhutan.

    Continue to Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region. The fortress is a fine example of Bhutan’s rich art and architecture, and our guide who is an expert in iconography will explain all aspects of art, architecture, history, and its significance.

    Proceed to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery which is atop ridge amid pine trees and overlooking the valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang. Interact with the nuns and they love to speak English with visitors and learn about the ways of the world. From here, hike on the Trans-Bhutan Trail from Laptsakha to Punakha on a gentle hike of 5km to end the day.

  • Day 5: Drive to Trongsa (Ancestral Home of the Bhutanese Royal Family)
    After breakfast in Punakha, you’ll set off on a beautiful drive toward Trongsa. This journey takes you through some of Bhutan’s most stunning landscapes, peaceful valleys, forested hills, and charming villages tucked away in the mountains.

    Along the way, you’ll stop at Chendebji Chorten, a serene 18th-century stupa built in the Nepalese style. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, take in the quiet surroundings, and snap a few photos.

    Continue your drive deeper into central Bhutan. As you wind through the mountains, you’ll pass remote hamlets and witness everyday life unfolding in the countryside. The scenery shifts constantly, offering a true taste of Bhutan’s natural beauty.

    By late afternoon you’ll arrive in Trongsa, one of Bhutan’s most historic and picturesque towns. Check into your hotel and relax. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

  • Day 6: Drive to Bumthang- The spiritual heartland of the country
    After breakfast, drive to Bumthang Valley through Trongsa town. Begin with a visit to Trongsa Dzong, a historically important fortress that served as the central seat of administration and played a key role in establishing the Bhutanese monarchy in the early 1900s. Your tour leader will share the fascinating history of the Dzong and its significance.

    On the way to Bumthang, stop at the Tower of Trongsa Museum, an old watchtower now converted into a museum highlighting the establishment of the monarchy and Bhutan’s royal dynasty. Among the many artifacts, the most important exhibits are the Raven Crown used by the first two kings of Bhutan and the royal robes of the country’s founding fathers.

    Continue your drive to Bumthang and stop in Chumey Valley to visit the famous textile weavers, known for their Yatha textiles made from Yak wool.

    Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

  • Day 7: Bumthang sightseeing
    After a hearty breakfast, explore the cultural highlights of Chamkhar Valley. Start with Kurje Lhakhang, a complex of three temples surrounded by 108 stupas, symbolizing Buddha’s victory over evil spirits. Nearby, the Drupchhu (holy water), about 100 meters above the temple, is believed to have been created by Guru Rinpoche, the 8th-century saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan.

    Continue with a hike to Tamzhing Lhakhang, a temple built in 1501 by the revered lama Pema Lingpa. Explore the valley further and stop at the local cheese factory to see how Bumthang’s Gouda cheese is made. Take a break here to sample Bumthang Cheese and the locally brewed Red Panda beer, made by a Swiss craftsman.

    Visit Jakar Dzong, the impressive fortress of Bumthang, and stroll through town in the evening to observe local life. End the day with a visit to a handloom weaving house, where you can meet the weavers and see traditional crafts in action.

    Bumthang is also known for its unique local cuisine, and we’ll take you to one of our favorite restaurants for dinner.

  • Day 8: Excursion to Tang valley
    After breakfast, drive to Tang Valley, stopping along the way at Maebar Tsho, a sacred pilgrimage site also known as the “Burning Lake.” According to legend, the revered saint Terton Pema Lingpa emerged from the lake with a burning butter lamp after discovering sacred relics of the Buddha in the river.

    Continue to Tang and visit the Ogyen Chholing Manor House, a museum established by the renowned Bhutanese author and royal, Ashi Kuenzang Choden. Stroll through the village, interact with locals, and visit the village temple. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Tang countryside, taking in the serene landscapes and traditional rural life. Return to your hotel in the evening.

  • Day 9: Drive to Phobjikha Valley
    Drive to Phobjikha enroute stop to visit Chendebji Choete (Stupa) situated at the confluence of 2 rivers. Continue your drive and visit the famous Gantey Gompa monastery if you feel like it. This valley is different from others as it is a glacial valley that is home to the endangered Black-necked cranes which visit during the winter from the Tibetan plateau and has found a special place in the hearts of the local people and their folklore. As a result, the valley is a protected habitat for the birds while also being the potato basket of Bhutan, thereby a great example of how agriculture and conservation go hand in hand. It is the beauty of this valley that inspired visitors to coin the word” Switzerland of the East”.

    The scenic Phobjikha Valley invites you to enjoy a gentle nature hike. A 1–2 hour walk leads through small villages along a sloping path lined with tall, jade-green bamboo that sway gracefully in the wind. At the end of the bamboo trail, you’ll find traditional Bhutanese village houses with elevated platforms, carved wooden windows, and wood-lined roofs. The surrounding forests are especially beautiful, bursting with color. Stay overnight in a lovely resort with stunning valley views.

  • Day 10: Drive to Paro and sightseeing
    In the morning, drive to Paro, a historic town dotted with sacred sites and centuries-old buildings. The Paro Valley is wide and lush, often called the rice bowl of Bhutan, and is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful valleys in the country.

    Stop at Dochula for a hot cup of tea. On a clear day, you can have a panoramic view of eastern Himalayan ranges from the pass (3140 m).

    Visit the National Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of ancient Buddhist art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps, masks, and a small natural history section. Then, proceed to Rinpung Dzong (“Fortress of a Heap of Jewels”) and enjoy a walk down to the bridge, where your driver will be waiting to continue your journey.

    Drive on to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to promote Buddhism. Continue to Dungtse Lhakhang, home to some of the oldest paintings in Bhutan, dating back to the 15th century.

    In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Paro town, soaking in the local life, before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.

  • Day 11: Haa Valley Day Excursion
    Enjoy a full-day trip to Haa Valley via Chele La Pass (3,920 m), the highest motorable pass in Bhutan.

    Haa Valley is one of Bhutan’s least visited regions and was opened to tourists only recently. It is also one of the few places where the ancient Bon religion is still practiced.

    Visit the White Temple (Lhakhang Karpo) and Black Temple (Lhakhang Nagpo), built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
    Enjoy a picnic lunch and a short walk around the quiet town of Haa.

    On the return drive, if time allows, visit one of Bhutan’s oldest nunneries, built in the 9th century and located on a cliff. The nunnery is home to about 100 nuns.

    Return to Paro for overnight at your hotel.

  • Day 12: Tiger’s Nest excursion and Paro sightseeing
    We’ve saved the best for the last. Experience Bhutan’s most valued attractions, and perhaps one of the major highlights of your trip. An excursion to the famous Taktshang monastery. A two-hour hike would reward you with a spectacular temple clinging on a 1000-foot high cliff. The temple was built in 1692 by a prominent historical figure named Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgye whose reincarnation is now a young teenager and already a prominent figure in the clergy.

    In the evening, explore Paro town on foot and sample the various handicrafts and art centers. Visit a farmhouse to soak in a herbal hot-stone bath which is known to be therapeutic and helps alleviate joints and muscle ailments, besides simply soothing your mind and body. This is delicious after all those days of hiking. This is a complimentary value-added experience from BHUTAN TRAVEL NOW including Bhutanese cooking class in the farm house without any hidden costs.

    We always encourage our guests to live like a Bhutanese while in Bhutan. If you fancy it, you can be dressed in our traditional attire, which our guests love to experience it.

  • Day 13: Farewell
    Altitude:(2,350 m / 7,710 ft.)

    It’s time to say goodbye as you transfer to the airport for your departure flight, enjoying one last unforgettable experience—spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest.

ABOUT YOUR LOCAL HOSTS – WE ARE COMITTED TO GIVE YOU OUR BEST.


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4.9
Based on 16 reviews
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Sachin Malhotra profile picture
Sachin Malhotra
12:12 24 Jan 26
I really enjoyed my trip with Bhutan Travel Now everything was well arranged and the hotels were comfortable. Sherab Dorji and his team were very friendly and helpful, they really took good care of us. the farmhouse stay and the hike to Tigers Nest was something i will always remember. I would definitely recommend Bhutan Travel Now to anyone planning to visit Bhutan.
Hope to come back to Bhutan again very soon
Andrew profile picture
Andrew
12:42 02 Dec 25
We traveled without doing much research because we wanted to keep our expectations simple, and Bhutan ended up surpassing everything we imagined. The food, culture, and the way tourist sites are organized truly impressed us.

Bhutan Travel Now provided exceptional service from start to finish. Sherab Dorji was incredibly helpful and responsive, making the entire process smooth. Our driver and guide were knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. Even when a minor vehicle issue came up, they resolved it quickly and kept the journey seamless.

Every part of the itinerary felt well planned, and we always felt cared for. The warm hospitality and thoughtful arrangements made the trip even more memorable.
Tania vinding Hansen profile picture
Tania vinding Hansen
18:25 06 Nov 25
I did a 5 day tour as a solo traveller to Bhutan with this company in end October visiting Thimpu, Punakha and Paro. The trip was nothing but perfect! My guide was awesome and so was my driver, and the CEO of the company even took the time to have dinner with me one evening. Hospitality at it’s best and at a level I have not experienced anywhere else (and i am a globetrotter going on my 67th country). Moreover, the hotels were really nice and so was the food.
I will remember Bhutan for it’s beautiful sceneries, it’s fascinating and unique buildings and its friendly and warm people. It makes me want to come back one day.
Thank you to Bhuthan Travel Now for making my stay there memorable.
I give the company my warmest recommendations
SaLa profile picture
SaLa
12:28 24 Sep 25
12/10!
I had the trip of a lifetime with Bhutan Travel Now on my 11-day solo journey. My guide Sherab and driver/guide Karma were outstanding-knowledgeable, caring, and always going the extra mile. The itinerary was tailored to my interests, with a great mix of hikes and cultural experiences, including hidden trails and sights off the beaten path. The accommodation and food far exceeded expectations, and Sherab's local connections even got me a few lovely upgrades along the way.
As a female solo traveler, I always felt completely safe and well taken care of. I cannot recommend Bhutan Travel Now highly enough for anyone wanting a truly personalized and unforgettable Bhutan experience!
Petra van Ree profile picture
Petra van Ree
00:07 26 Mar 25
Petra
Willunga, Australia12 contributions

Our trip of a lifetime
Apr 2024 • Family
We spent 10 days in Bhutan in April 2019, which was organized by Sherab when he still worked for his family business. When we arrived at Paro airport, after an exciting approach, we were very warmly welcomed by the tour company.
Our journey was very well organized and we visited many cultural places.
One of the most memorable was the school in the middle of nowhere. The children were so well behaved. One teacher for 90 children over 3 classes.
Also very impressive was the climb over the Chelela pass and the Tiger's Nest Monastery. And many more memorable places....
We highly recommend to visit Bhutan with Sherab.
J L profile picture
J L
08:52 18 Mar 25
We spent two weeks in Bhutan and our trip was coordinated by Sherab. We went from Paro to Phobjika Valley. It was a very well organised trip and we were well taken care of, also learning many things about Bhutan and her wonderful people along the way. All accommodations arranged were fantastic and we greatly enjoyed our time in Bhutan. Sherab even came down to meet us on the last night for dinner and gave us some souvenirs of Bhutan that we could take home with us.
Price Includes
    • Sustainable Tourism Fee/ Toursim Tax ( $ 100 per day per person)
    • All meals and evening tea
    • Drinking mineral water in the car
    • All 3 star accommodations
    • English-speaking tour leader and driver
    • Excellent condition Bus for your family
    • Entry fees to monuments and temple fess
    • Complimentry Prayer flags
    • Hotstone bath as a value added service
    • Bhutan flights from Delhi sector
    • Super Deluxe room in Naksel resort in Paro
Price Excludes
    • All personal expenses like laundry, telephone, tips, shopping expenses
    • Spa Charges (except for the traditional hot-stone bath)
    • Travel and Medical insurance
    • Gratuity/ Tips
    • Bhutan flights

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