Discover Bhutan

4.7Based on

Carbon neutral

11 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

16 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Kathmandu, Nepal

Ends

Kathmandu, Nepal

Highlights

Discover both the ancient and 'new' capitals of Bhutan, Thimpu and Punakha

Drive along the Dochula Pass, where you can view 108 Buddhist shrines

Visit the Paro Dzong and the incredible 'Tiger's Nest' monastery at Taktsang

Watch locals practice archery at a local farmhouse near Paro

Walk in the quiet Gangtey Valley

Visit the impressive Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Thimphu

Itinerary

Shrouded by the mighty Himalaya, the secretive kingdom of Bhutan is visited by few foreigners. Those who do go, however, bear witness to astonishing sights: cliff-perched Buddhist monasteries, still-alive ancient traditions and pristine landscapes fiercely protected by local laws. It takes a true insider to reveal the many wonders of the kingdom, and we know the best. So, join our tour leader for an unforgettable and immersive journey into a land few visit and even fewer truly explore as we do.

In Bhutan, there are many festivals throughout the year with rituals and masked dances. This itinerary doesn’t include any festivals, but we operate alternative itineraries where you can enjoy Paro Festival, Thimphu Festival, Trongsa Festival or the Black Crane Festival.

day 1 - Adventure starts in Kathmandu

Begin your adventure in Kathmandu, a brief stop on our way to Bhutan. You're free to arrive at any time as there are no activities planned today.

Want to explore Kathmandu further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation:Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

day 2 - Fly to Paro

Today we fly to Paro. Our route takes us over the eastern Himalaya and, if the weather is clear, we should get a fantastic view of magnificent peaks including Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and Kanchenjunga. The Paro Valley is considered one of the most beautiful in Bhutan, with blue pine-covered hills and attractive solidly built houses among the paddy fields.

Say hello to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. If there is the time in the afternoon there will be a visit to visit the museum and Rinpung Dzong. Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome over dinner together.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Rema Resorts (or similar)

day 3 - Drive to Thimphu

Today we have an hour’s drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Punakha was the capital until 1961 when the 3rd King changed it to Thimphu. Our day is spent exploring Thimphu, where there is plenty to see and do. The main sights include Kuensel Phodrang, known locally as Buddha Point, where there is a huge statue of Buddha overlooking the whole of the valley. Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629 now serves as the Institute of Language and cultural studies. It houses numerous statues and paintings of various religious figures and deities. You will also be able to view Takin Reserve from above on your journey into Thimphu and visit a paper factory and weaving centre to see authentic local weaving techniques, plus the local market is interesting to explore.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:Gakyil Hotel (or similar)

day 4 - Drive to Gangtey; visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong monastery

We leave Thimphu in the morning and drive east to Gangtey. The route climbs steadily on a good road to the Dochula Pass, where there are 108 chortens (Buddhist shrines).

At 10,000ft (3,050m), we can enjoy glorious views over the eastern Himalaya, weather dependent. We then descend to the valley floor and continue to sub-tropical Wangdue. We stop to visit the Wangdiphodrang Dzong, one of the larger monastery’s we visit on this trip it overlooks the picturesque river and rural agricultural fields surrounding it and has an impressive courtyard.

This afternoon, we have plenty of time to explore the Phobjikha Valley, one of the most beautiful in Bhutan. This wide-open U-shaped glacial valley is home to barking and sambar deer plus wild boars, while Himalayan black bears have also been spotted here. It is also where black-necked cranes come to roost during winter. Usually arriving from Tibet towards the end of October, they announce their appearance by circling the monastery three times. Come spring, they again fly three times around the monastery before returning to Tibet.

Today’s drive is approximately 78mi (125km) and takes four to five hours, although variable road conditions may mean we spend longer on the road.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:Phuntsho Yangkil Lodge (or similar)

day 5 - Morning hike through the Gangtey Valley. Afternoon visit of Khewang Lhakhang

This morning we set off on foot from our hotel for a walk through the Gangtey Valley (approx. 5km/2-3 hours) - the climb up to the monastery involves around 500m ascent. This glacial valley is made up of farmlands, pastures and blue-pine forests. We likely encounter herders caring for their herds, which graze on the dwarf bamboo of the area.

On the east side of the Phobjikha valley, opposite Tabiting, is the 15th-century Khewang Lhakhang, one of the oldest in the valley. It features three impressive two-storey statues of the past, present and future Buddhas.The lhakhang has a festival when local men (not monks) do the dancing, celebrating an ancient victory over local demons.

We visit the Phobjikha Crane Center. It is captivating to observe the graceful flight of the cranes in their natural environment. We learn about the conservation efforts through interactive activities and knowledgeable staff members who make every effort to protect and nurture the cranes. Afterwards, there is a short visit to a farm house where we have an optional hot stone bath (approx. US$10).

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:Phuntsho Yangkil Lodge (or similar)

day 6 - Drive to Punakha, visit Chimi Lakang, Punakha Dzong

We drive back westwards to subtropical Punakha, which may take about three hours. En route, we visit the Chimi Lhakhang, built in 1499 to honour Drukpa Kuenley. Nicknamed the Divine Madman or Mad Saint, he was a maverick spiritual leader, who subdued a demon controlling the Dochu La. He built a chorten where the monastery stands and was reputed to have unorthodox ways of teaching Buddhism – he advocated for phallic symbols to be painted on walls and houses, which were intended to drive away the evil eye. Most of the houses in this area are decorated with highly ornate phallic paintings. We walk through the village to the monastery with a chance to see traditional Bhutanese-style farmhouses.

We then continue to Punakha, which at 3,940ft (1,200m) is warmer than Paro or Thimphu. Punakha was once the capital of Bhutan and is still the winter residence of the monastic body. We visit the dzong, one of the most beautiful in Bhutan. This remarkable fortress between the Mo and Po Chhu rivers has survived many fires, an earthquake and several floods.

Time permitting, we drive to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten at the end of the valley, which houses representations of the tantric form of Buddhist deities. Built for the protection of the country and the present king, the chorten also offers impressive views of the valley below.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:Sonamgang Hotel (or similar)

day 7 - Drive to Paro, visiting Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge, Dzongdrakha Goemba and Kyichu Lhakhang monastery

In the morning, we drive for about three hours back to Paro. En route, we visit the Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge, which crosses the Paro Chhu. This 600-year-old bridge, popularly known as the Iron Chain Bridge, was built by Thangtong Gyalpo in the late 1300s, who is said to have built 108 bridges in Tibet and Bhutan. Made of wood and iron, this is the first bridge built in Bhutan.

We continue our drive and come to the Dzongdrakha Goemba, also known as Mini Taktsang, a serene site above the village of Bondey on the western side of the Paro Valley. Often overlooked by tourists because of its rather old facade, this divine place comprises four shrines, while stories related to spirits, saints and magic are narrated here.

Before arriving at our hotel, we stop at Kyichu Lhakhang. Built in the seventh century, it is said to be the oldest temple in Bhutan and therefore holds great spiritual significance to the country. Legend says a king built it in one night on an ogre’s foot.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Rema Resorts (or similar)

day 8 - Traditional farmhouse visit and archery demonstration

Witness the real beauty of the Paro Valley by visiting the quaint farmhouses. All Bhutanese farmhouses follow the same pattern and are highly decorative and traditional in style. They are built using mud and stone without the usage of any nail. A visit to these houses will be a different experience altogether and will offer you a glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer. While there, you’ll meet a local family and have the chance to help them prepare and cook lunch.

We also visit a local archery ground and see a demonstration from the archers and learn about the local customs.

This afternoon, there is free time to explore Paro at your leisure and pick up some locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Rema Resorts (or similar)

day 9 - Day walk to Taktsang, Tiger's Nest Monastery

Today we hike (approximately 6.8mi/11km round trip with an elevation of approximately 915m) to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. This spectacular building is perched on the ledge of a cliff high above the Paro Valley.

Partly destroyed by fire in 1998, it has now been completely restored to its former magnificence. From the car park to the cafeteria viewpoint is about two hours’ uphill walk through the forest. From here, we have incredible views of the monastic buildings that cling to the cliff. For the energetic, there is the chance to walk even higher to the actual monastery. This takes another two hours and involves walking up and down stone steps. We highly recommend a trekking pole or you can buy a wooden stick at the car park. There are horses available up to the cafeteria for those who do not wish to hike but please note this is an unregulated activity and helmets are not available. We spend about an hour at the monastery looking around the temples (photography is not allowed inside) before descending to the cafeteria for lunch.

After lunch, we return to the car park and drive back to our hotel. There should be some time to have a look round Paro before dinner.

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Others:Rema Resorts (or similar)

day 10 - Fly to Kathmandu

We transfer to the airport to check in for our flight back to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for individual sightseeing or shopping. You may want to visit Durbar Square in the heart of the old city, the monkey temple at Swayambhunath, the largest Buddhist stupa on earth at Boudhanath or the Hindu temple at Pashupathinath. Another option is to take a taxi to Bhaktapur, the medieval city 10.5mi (17km) east of the capital. Bhaktapur has its own Durbar Square with many temples and statues and a maze of narrow streets, which are generally quieter than the capital.

Meals:Breakfast

Accommodation:Royal Singi Hotel (or similar)

day 11 - Adventure ends in Kathmandu

Your journey ends in Kathmandu after breakfast. If you’d like to spend more time in the Nepalese capital, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Meals:Breakfast

Get Trip Brochure & Exclusive Discount

Download a detailed PDF brochure and unlock an exclusive discount for this tour

What's Included

Accommodation

All accommodation

Meals

All breakfasts, eight lunches, eight dinners

Transport

All transport and listed activitiesArrival and departure transfers

Guide

Tour leader throughout

Others

Bhutanese visa is included

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Discover Bhutan

4.7

based on 22 reviews

Tour Availability

Select your preferred departure date and secure your spot

Christmas Super Sales Extended SalesUp to 24% off

Loading availability...

Monthly Price Comparison

Good to Know

Cancellation

Payment

Travel Insurance

Visa

Do you need help from our trip consultants?

If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our travel experts are ready to help.

Why Book with Bookmundi

Earn USD 239+ in travel credits.

Best price guaranteed.

No credit card or booking fees.

100% financial protection.Bookmundi is a member of the Danish Travel Fund which guarantees for any payment made via us. Our guarantee covers all travelers, irrespective of nationality.

Carbon neutral tours.Algorithms and machine learning enables Bookmundi to calculate the carbon footprint for each tour. We then subsequently offset carbon emissions for all tour bookings on Bookmundi via investments in carbon reduction projects to help combat climate change.

25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.

What are customers saying about Bookmundi

4.67/5

Excellent based on 808 customer reviews from

Anonymous

Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

1 week ago

Similar Tours You Might Like

Discover our top tours similar to Discover Bhutan that you might like.

Manaslu Circuit Trekking

5.0(25 reviews)

Unlike the well-trodden Everest Base Camp route, the Manaslu Circuit Trekking tour offers a more secluded experience for young adults and experienced travelers alike. Officially opened to tourists only in 1991, this area remains pristine, rewarding trekkers with unspoiled landscapes and rich biodiversity. The adventure starts from Kathmandu, with hiking beginning in Arughat. The toughest—and most rewarding—section is the ascent of Larke Pass (5,100m), with the trek’s varied elevation bringing constantly changing scenery. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Manaslu (8,156m), the world’s eighth-highest peak, and encounter local cultures rooted in both Nepalese and Tibetan traditions. While challenging, the trip is suitable for those in good shape prepared for daily hikes of up to six hours. The USP of this tour package is its rare access to a restricted area, offering a sense of discovery for trekkers craving something beyond the usual Himalayan routes.

12 days

Nepal Cultural Highlights Roundtrip

5.0(64 reviews)

Nepal Cultural Highlights Roundtrip is a 10-day journey through the country’s vibrant mosaic of landscapes, traditions, and histories—an ideal trip for curious young adults and experienced travelers alike. Begin in Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure trove, then venture south to Chitwan National Park for wildlife spotting, including rhinos and, with luck, Bengal tigers. Explore the spiritual heartland in Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha, before relaxing in Pokhara, where tranquil lakes mirror the snow-capped Himalayas. This guided tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Nepal’s full spectrum—from bustling cities to serene natural reserves and sacred sites. What sets it apart? A thoughtfully balanced itinerary that weaves together cultural discovery, wildlife adventure, and spiritual reflection, offering a comprehensive immersion into Nepal’s rich diversity.

10 days

Journeys: Discover Nepal

5.0(13 reviews)

Nepal’s vibrant culture and natural wonders come alive on "Journeys: Discover Nepal." This 10-day moderate-paced wildlife trip is ideal for experienced travelers and seniors seeking a balance of adventure and comfort. Start and end in Kathmandu, with highlights including a night at a Buddhist monastery, time in picturesque Pokhara, and a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park. Guided by local experts, you’ll explore bustling markets, serene temples, and the spectacular Annapurna Himalaya. Spot elephants, tigers, and rare birds in Nepal’s oldest reserve, and enjoy seamless arrangements for accommodation, transport, and meals. The USP: a rare blend of spiritual immersion and wildlife encounters, providing a comprehensive introduction to Nepal’s best-kept secrets.

10 days

Festivals of Bhutan – Paro

4.6(8 reviews)

Discover the mystical allure of Bhutan on the "Festivals of Bhutan – Paro" trip, an 11-day cultural odyssey that begins and ends in Kathmandu. Designed for seniors who relish authentic encounters, this guided tour immerses you in the sights, sounds, and spirituality of the Himalayas. Timed for the spring Paro Festival—an exuberant tribute to Guru Rinpoche—this tour invites you to witness monks in vibrant robes perform ritual dances, join prayer meetings, and experience the infectious joy of local celebrations. The itinerary weaves through sacred destinations like Khewang, Punakha, and Paro, with all logistics, accommodations, and meals thoughtfully arranged. What sets this journey apart is its alignment with Bhutan’s iconic festivals, offering a rare opportunity to engage with centuries-old traditions at their most colorful and meaningful. For those who seek a deeper connection to Bhutan’s culture and history, this tour package is truly special.

11 days

Bhutan: Druk Path Trek

4.7(31 reviews)

For travelers who crave adventure in rare and mystical lands, the "Bhutan: Druk Path Trek" promises an unforgettable journey along one of Asia’s most fabled routes. Beginning and ending in Kathmandu, this 12-day trekking tour leads you through the enchanting landscapes of Bhutan, from Paro to Thimphu, past pristine lakes, rhododendron forests, and yak herder settlements. Experience the raw beauty of high-altitude passes and camp beside crystal-clear mountain lakes, with breathtaking views of peaks bordering Tibet. The itinerary is punctuated by cultural highlights—on select departures, you’ll witness Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, complete with masked dances and exuberant celebrations, offering a glimpse into the kingdom’s joyful traditions. This tour package stands out for its seamless blend of strenuous trekking and rich cultural encounters, accessible to experienced travelers looking for both physical challenge and authentic connection. Accommodation, transport, and meals are thoughtfully included, allowing you to focus on soaking up the unique spirit of Bhutan. If you yearn for a trek in a land visited by only a few, where ancient customs endure amidst awe-inspiring nature, this is the adventure you’ve been waiting for.

12 days

Nepal Highlights Round-Trip

5.0(4 reviews)

Set out on a 10-day odyssey across Nepal, where every turn reveals a new chapter of discovery. The Nepal Highlights Round-Trip is tailored for young adventurers and seasoned travelers who wish to soak up the country’s natural, cultural, and spiritual treasures in comfort. Begin in Kathmandu, where centuries-old temples stand in harmony with the bustle of modern life. Venture south to Chitwan National Park for thrilling wildlife safaris—keep your eyes peeled for elusive tigers and one-horned rhinos. Next, journey to Lumbini, the tranquil birthplace of Buddha, before heading to Pokhara to witness the Annapurna Range reflected in serene Phewa Lake and catch the sunrise from Sarangkot. Wander through the traditional streets of Bandipur, soaking in the preserved heritage and warm hospitality, before returning to Kathmandu for a memorable finale. What sets this tour apart is its seamless blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, all within an easy-paced itinerary ideal for travelers eager to experience Nepal’s highlights without rush.

10 days

Explore Nepal Tour

4.9(12 reviews)

Join us on this 9-day, guided trip and get the chance to see some of the major highlights of Nepal. We will meet you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu upon arrival and drive you to your hotel. Enjoy sightseeing tours in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur on the second and third day of the trip before heading for Nagarkot, a hill on the fringes of the Valley that offers great views of the Himalayas. Drive to Chitwan on Day 4 of the trip and see a variety of wildlife in the national park during a wildlife safari trip the next day. The final destination of this tour is Pokhara. Visit Pokhara's famous lakeside as well as Sarangkot, from where you can enjoy stunning sunrise in the morning. We will drive you to Kathmandu on the second-last day of the tour and transfer you to the airport on the final day. For more details, please go through the itinerary below.

9 days

Keep Exploring Nepal

Europe

Asia

South America

Africa

North America

Oceania

Polar

Food, wine, events and nightlife

Adventure and sport

Wildlife, landscapes and nature

Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife

Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history

Air tours, road trips and transfers

Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation

Special interests and hobbies

Hi there

Highlights