Five days covering Bhutan's essential western circuit: Thimphu, Punakha Dzong, Paro valley and the Tiger's Nest hike.
The ideal first visit to Bhutan. In five days you'll cross the Himalayan viewpoint at Dochula Pass, tour the majestic Punakha Dzong, walk through rice fields to the Temple of Fertility, and hike to the sacred Tiger's Nest monastery. Private guide, all meals and entry fees included.
Highlights
- Tiger's Nest Monastery hike
- Punakha Dzong at the river confluence
- Dochula Pass with 108 chortens and Himalayan views
- Chimi Lhakhang — Temple of Fertility
- Buddha Dordenma statue at sunset
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 and drive to Thimphu (2,300m). Visit the National Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong. Evening at the Buddha Dordenma viewpoint.
2 Dochula Pass — Punakha
Cross Dochula Pass (3,100m) with its 108 memorial chortens. Visit Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers and hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.
3 Punakha to Paro
Walk through rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang. Drive to Paro. Visit Rinpung Dzong and the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong (1647).
4 Tiger's Nest Hike
Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), the sacred monastery perched 900m above the valley floor. Allow 5–6 hours. Afternoon: Kyichu Lhakhang (7th century).
5 Departure from Paro
Early breakfast and airport transfer.
Choose your package
Prices are per person. Each package lists exactly what is included.
Private guide, 3-star hotels, all meals
$1,250
per person, all-inclusive
- 4 nights 3-star hotel
- All meals
- Private English-speaking guide
- All entry fees and permits
- Airport transfers
- Traditional costume
Upgraded 4-star hotels
$1,800
per person, all-inclusive
- 4 nights 4-star hotel
- All meals
- Private guide
- All entry fees
- Airport transfers
- Traditional costume
Premium lodge experience
$2,400
per person, all-inclusive
- 4 nights luxury lodge
- All meals
- Expert private guide
- All entry fees
- Spa treatment
- Airport transfers
- Traditional costume and gifts
Included
Only the items listed in your chosen package, including the SDF when shown.
Usually not included
International flights, travel insurance, visa application fee, tips, alcohol, and personal expenses unless listed.
The itinerary shows travel days. Accommodation nights and exact check-in dates are confirmed before payment.
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