Bhutan · Culture

6-Day Bhutan Cultural Tour with Tiger's Nest and Punakha Dzong

6 Days Round trip from Thimphu Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Marvel at the cliffside Tiger's Nest Monastery and sweeping views over Paro Valley
02 Explore the historic Punakha Dzong, known for its stunning architecture and riverside setting
03 Admire panoramic Himalayan vistas and the spiritual charm of 108 chortens at Dochula Pass
04 Discover Thimphu's cultural landmarks, vibrant markets, and traditional arts and crafts

Explore Bhutan on a 6-day cultural journey through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, featuring the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and the serene Paro Valley. Discover authentic Bhutanese traditions, vibrant markets, and local heritage while staying in comfortable 3-star accommodation and traveling with seamless private transfers. With an experienced English-speaking guide, all necessary permits, and personalized support throughout the trip, this thoughtfully curated adventure offers an enriching introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Explore Bhutan on a 6-day cultural journey through Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, featuring the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and the serene Paro Valley.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Thimphu, Paro, Punakha

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the world's most scenic approaches.
Private transfer to Thimphu (54 km, approximately 1 hour).
Check in at a 3-star hotel.
Visit Tashichho Dzong and stroll through Thimphu town.
Dinner at the hotel.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel, Thimphu

Day 02

Cultural Discoveries in Thimphu

Visit Memorial Chorten.
Explore the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, the traditional arts and crafts school.
See Bhutan's national animal at the Royal Takin Preserve.
Visit the National Textile Museum.
Explore Thimphu Weekend Market for fresh produce and handicrafts.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel, Thimphu

Day 03

Scenic Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Enjoy a scenic drive to Punakha (approximately 3-4 hours).
Stop at Dochula Pass (3,050 m) for panoramic Himalayan views and the 108 chortens.
Visit the Royal Botanical Garden en route.
Explore Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility.
Visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most beautiful fortresses.
Dinner and overnight stay in Punakha.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel, Punakha

Day 04

Return to Paro and Heritage Sightseeing

Drive back to Paro (approximately 1.5 hours).
Visit the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong).
Explore Paro Rinpung Dzong and nearby heritage sites.
Optional visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse.
Overnight stay in Paro.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel, Paro

Day 05

Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery

Enjoy an early breakfast before hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang).
The trailhead begins at 2,600 m, and the hike takes approximately 5-6 hours round trip.
Optional horse ride to the viewpoint cafe.
Explore the monastery, chapels, sacred spring, and Guru Rinpoche's meditation cave.
Return to the hotel in Paro.
Farewell dinner with your guide.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel, Paro

Day 06

Departure from Paro

Breakfast at the hotel.
Free time for last-minute shopping or a short stroll in Paro town.
Private transfer to Paro International Airport.
Departure with unforgettable memories.

Meals: Breakfast

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Thimphu 3 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All airport-hotel transfers by private vehicle
2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Thimphu with breakfast
1 night in a 3-star hotel in Punakha with breakfast
2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Paro with breakfast
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
Kathmandu to Paro and Paro to Kathmandu flight tickets
All sightseeing and transfers by private vehicle
All twin-sharing accommodation during the tour
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
All necessary paperwork and permits
Bhutan tourist visa
Sustainable Development Fee of Bhutan
All government and local taxes
Experienced English-speaking tour guide throughout the tour
Personalized virtual consultation before finalizing your Bhutan tour
Online pre-trip briefing after booking confirmation
Free excess luggage storage at our office store
Duffle bag
T-shirt / baseball cap
Self-sufficient medical first aid kit containing vital medications
Tour certificate

What's Not Included

Nepal visa fee (15-day visa costing $30/person)
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess luggage charges
Extra night's accommodation in Kathmandu
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, personal drinks, bottled water, SIM card/internet, etc.)
Tips for guides and drivers

Know before you go

Country Overview: Bhutan, known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a peaceful Himalayan kingdom celebrated for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, deeply rooted traditions, and unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), placing well-being above material wealth. Travelers can expect pristine nature, spiritual serenity, and rich cultural heritage.
Time Zone: Bhutan Standard Time (BTT) is UTC +6 hours, 30 minutes ahead of India Standard Time (IST). No daylight saving time is observed.
Population: Approximately 770,000 (as of 2023), mostly living in western and central valleys, in towns like Thimphu (capital), Paro, and Punakha.
Language: The official language is Dzongkha. English is widely spoken in schools, hotels, and among guides and officials. Many Bhutanese also speak Nepali and other regional dialects.
Religion: Over 75% practice Mahayana Buddhism. Expect ornate monasteries, colorful prayer flags, and sacred stupas throughout your journey. Spiritual traditions are deeply woven into daily life.
Transportation & Flights: Private, comfortable vehicles are provided throughout the tour, with dedicated drivers. Most journeys start with a scenic flight into Paro International Airport. Assistance is available for flights from Kathmandu, Delhi, Bangkok, or Singapore.
Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), equal in value to the Indian Rupee (INR). Approx. 1 USD = 85 BTN. Indian Rupees are accepted (except ₹500 & ₹2000 notes). Cash is preferred; ATMs in Paro and Thimphu may not always accept foreign cards. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and select shops.
Payment Information: 25% advance payment is required at booking for visa, hotels, transport, and guide services. The remaining balance is payable before arrival or upon arrival. Payments can be made via bank transfer, cash, or major credit cards. Secure instructions are provided after confirming dates.
Internet & SIM Card: Wi-Fi is available in hotels and many restaurants. For connectivity, purchase a local SIM card (TashiCell or B-Mobile) upon arrival with your passport. Affordable local data plans are available.
Guest Requirements: All international visitors (except those from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives) require a visa, arranged by the tour operator.
Daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is included in the package price.
Visa processing requires a scanned passport (minimum 6 months validity), a passport-sized photo, and international flight details.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and should cover medical care, emergencies, and cancellations.