This Bhutan tour takes you through some of the country’s most famous cities, including Paro, Thimphu, Gantey, Punakha, and more.
The journey begins in Paro, home to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously perched on a cliffside overlooking the valley. This breathtaking site, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” is a highlight of any Bhutan tour.
Next, travel to Thimphu, the capital city, where you can explore majestic Dzongs (fortresses), historical monuments, and museums, and enjoy leisurely walks along the city’s modern streets, observing the blend of tradition and progress.
The tour continues to Gantey and Trongsa, a charming traditional town known for its whitewashed shops and local heritage. Finally, visit Punakha, where the Punakha Dzong – considered Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress – stands majestically at the confluence of two rivers, showcasing exquisite architecture built over centuries.
This journey offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty, making it a truly immersive experience in the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan.
Outline Itinerary
Price Details.
For more information regarding the price, please email us at ehtours@explorehimalayatravel.com
Detail Itinerary.
Your flight to Paro offers a spectacular introduction to Bhutan, providing breathtaking views of the plains and the greater Himalayas. From the air, you may catch sight of the sacred peaks of Mount Chomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake, along with other majestic Himalayan summits.
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your tour guide, who will assist with transfers to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a brief orientation over tea, where your guide will outline the tour program and provide helpful local tips.
The evening is at leisure, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the local Paro market, interact with locals, and enjoy the charming atmosphere of this Himalayan town.
Meals Included: None (Arrival day)
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive in Paro before beginning a short trek to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the “Tiger’s Nest”. The monastery is located approximately 10 km from Paro town and is perched dramatically on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800 meters, overlooking the breathtaking Paro Valley and Paro River.
According to legend, in the second half of the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava, revered as the “Second Buddha” of Bhutan, meditated at this sacred site after alighting on the back of a flying tigress. The monastery remains one of Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual sites and a must-visit attraction for travelers.
Along the trek, take a break at the Taktsang Cafeteria, a perfect resting point offering spectacular views of the monastery and Paro Valley. The full round-trip hike takes about 4 hours, allowing ample time to soak in the scenery and spiritual ambience.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Paro town, exploring local shops, traditional crafts, and charming streets before returning to your hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, passing through the picturesque villages of Paro and Wang, where traditional houses and well-terraced fields blend harmoniously with the natural landscape.
En route, visit the Zimtokha Dzong, located about 5 km before Thimphu. Built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this historic fortress—the oldest Dzong in Bhutan—now houses the Institute of Language and Cultural Studies. Explore its impressive architecture and learn about its cultural significance.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel and refresh before visiting the Memorial Chorten, constructed in 1974 in memory of the Late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928–1972). This revered monument is an important spiritual and cultural landmark in the city.
After lunch, continue your cultural exploration:
National Library – home to ancient manuscripts and Bhutanese literary treasures
Institute of Zorig Chosum – center for traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts
Buddhist Nunnery – visit the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu Dzong
Radio Tower Viewpoint – witness a stunning sunset over Thimphu and spot the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal
This day offers a perfect mix of history, culture, spirituality, and scenic beauty, giving you a deep insight into Bhutan’s capital.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to Gangtey, a journey of approximately 6 hours. You may extend the drive to 8–9 hours to fully explore the stunning rhododendrons, magnolias, and alpine flora that adorn the route.
Along the way, stop at the Dochula Pass (3,100 m / 10,230 ft), where 108 chortens (stupas) sit against a panoramic backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. On a clear day, enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, decorated with fluttering colorful prayer flags.
As you descend toward Gangtey, notice the abundance of giant rhododendrons and magnolias lining every turn of the road. Stop for lunch in Wandgi, then continue driving through scenic meadows and valleys, observing wildflowers and dwarf bamboos near the higher passes above Gangtey.
Arrive in Gangtey, a charming valley known for its pristine natural beauty. Check into a rustic village lodge and soak in the simplicity and tranquility of this picturesque setting.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around Gangtey Valley, a serene landscape known as the winter home of the rare Black-Necked Cranes. This is a perfect opportunity to experience rural Bhutanese life and enjoy the valley’s peaceful ambiance.
Visit the Gangtey Gompa (monastery), a beautiful and historic spiritual site that overlooks the valley. After the visit, continue your drive to Trongsa (approximately 120 km), a journey filled with stunning natural beauty and lush landscapes.
Along the route, marvel at the diverse flora, including over twenty species of rhododendrons and other Himalayan plants, such as the Blue Poppy, Bhutan’s national flower. As you approach Trongsa, try to catch the spectacular sunset view of the Trongsa Dzong, a majestic fortress perched above the valley.
This day combines nature, wildlife, culture, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery, making it a memorable part of your Bhutan journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, drive from Trongsa to Punakha, a journey of approximately 6–7 hours. Enjoy the scenic route through picturesque valleys, terraced paddy fields, and traditional villages, taking in the serene beauty of Bhutan’s countryside.
Along the way, you can explore areas that were missed on the previous day, including charming rural settlements and panoramic viewpoints. The drive offers a chance to experience the temperate tropical climate of Punakha, with its lush rivers, fertile fields, and tranquil surroundings, making it one of the most picturesque regions in Bhutan.
Arrive in Punakha, check in to your hotel, and relax after the scenic journey, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this historic valley.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, drive to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most iconic and beautiful fortresses. The Dzong is majestically situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, showcasing the art of Bhutanese architecture as a living cultural heritage. Explore the intricacies of the fortress, admire its ornate courtyards, and appreciate the spiritual significance of this historic site.
After sightseeing, begin the scenic drive back to Paro (approximately 121 km / 3 hours). Along the way, enjoy the serene landscapes, lush valleys, and traditional villages that reflect Bhutan’s timeless beauty. Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After an early breakfast at the hotel, check out and proceed to Paro Airport for your onward flight. Your tour escort will assist with departure formalities and bid you farewell, concluding your memorable Bhutan cultural journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast
