Essential Bhutan — 7 Days
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Paro · Thimphu · Punakha 7 days Moderate

Essential Bhutan — 7 Days

Seven days covering Bhutan's western heartland: Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, finishing with the iconic Tiger's Nest hike.

The perfect introduction to Bhutan. This private guided week takes you from the capital Thimphu through the former royal capital of Punakha to the sacred valley of Paro. You'll cross the Himalayan viewpoint at Dochula Pass, visit monks' fortresses and 7th-century temples, experience a farmhouse homestay in Punakha, and earn the Tiger's Nest on the final full day. Sustainable Development Fee included. All meals, transport and entry fees covered.

Highlights

  • Tiger's Nest Monastery hike — Bhutan's most iconic site
  • Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers
  • Dochula Pass with 108 chortens and Himalayan panorama
  • Farmhouse homestay in Punakha valley
  • Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten hike above the Mo Chhu river

Sample day-by-day itinerary

Your guide may adjust this based on conditions and your preferences.

1 Arrival in Paro — Thimphu

Arrive at Paro International Airport (2,235m) and drive to Thimphu. Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve and the Buddha Dordenma viewpoint — the 51m golden statue overlooking the capital valley.

2 Thimphu Sightseeing

Full day in Thimphu: Centenary Farmers' Market, National Folk Heritage Museum, National Textile Museum with live weaving demonstrations, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, and the twin dzongs of Simtokha and Tashichho.

3 Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Drive over Dochula Pass (3,100m) with panoramic Himalayan views and 108 memorial chortens. Visit Punakha Dzong (1637) and stroll to Chimi Lhakhang, the 15th-century hilltop Temple of Fertility.

4 Punakha Valley — Spiritual Sites

Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten above the Mo Chhu river. Afternoon riverside picnic and farmhouse homestay dinner.

5 Punakha to Paro Valley

Drive to Paro. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang (7th century) and the Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche museum. Explore Paro town on foot.

6 Tiger's Nest Hike

Hike 900m up to Paro Taktsang, the sacred monastery built into the rockface where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century. Allow 5–6 hours round trip.

7 Departure from Paro

Morning at leisure before departure flight.

Choose your package

All prices are per person, fully inclusive — hotels, meals, SDF, guide & transport.

🏕️ Essential

Private guide, 3-star hotels, all meals and entry fees

$1,850

per person, all-inclusive

  • 7 nights 3-star hotel
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Private English-speaking guide
  • All entry fees and permits
  • Airport transfers
  • Traditional costume rental
  • Mineral water
⭐ Classic POPULAR

Upgraded 4-star hotels with enhanced experiences

$2,600

per person, all-inclusive

  • 7 nights 4-star hotel
  • All meals
  • Private guide and vehicle
  • All entry fees
  • Airport transfers
  • Hot stone bath session
  • Traditional costume
💎 Luxury

Premium lodge stays and fully bespoke journey

$3,500

per person, all-inclusive

  • 7 nights luxury lodge
  • All meals at top restaurants
  • Expert private guide
  • All entry fees
  • Farmhouse cooking class
  • Traditional costume and gifts
  • Airport transfers

Choose your guide

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