7-Day Bhutan Cultural Tour through Paro, Thimphu and Punakha

7 Days Round trip from Paro International Airport (PBH) Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Scenic arrival from Paro to Thimphu with stops at Tamchog Lhakhang and Memorial Chorten
02 Explore Thimphu's cultural landmarks, from Buddha Dordenma to Tashichho Dzong
03 Cross Dochula Pass for Himalayan views before continuing to the peaceful Punakha Valley
04 Walk through traditional villages and picturesque rice fields in Punakha
05 Visit Paro's cultural treasures, including Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum, and Kyichu Lhakhang
06 Hike to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery on a rewarding 4-5 hour round trip

Experience the best of Bhutan on this immersive 7-day journey through Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Travel through scenic mountain passes, pristine valleys, and peaceful rivers while exploring centuries-old dzongs, sacred temples, and charming villages. Discover Bhutan's living culture through its traditional arts, local lifestyle, and rich spiritual heritage, from panoramic views at Dochula Pass to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery perched high above the Paro Valley. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Bhutanese experience, this tour combines iconic attractions, stunning natural scenery, and unforgettable moments in the Land of Happiness.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Thimphu, Paro, Punakha

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu

Driving Time: Approx. 1.5 Hours

Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, our representative will warmly receive you and transfer you to Thimphu, the charming capital city of Bhutan.

Enjoy your first glimpse of Bhutan's pristine valleys and peaceful Himalayan landscapes during your scenic drive to Thimphu.

Sightseeing En Route:

Tamchog Lhakhang
Visit the historic iron bridge built by the Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo.
Memorial Chorten
A beautiful stupa dedicated to world peace and spirituality.
Clock Tower Square
Enjoy local cafes, handicraft shops, and Bhutanese city life.

Overnight Stay: Thimphu

Day 02

Thimphu Cultural Sightseeing

After breakfast, enjoy a full day exploring Bhutan's capital city.

Places to Visit:

Buddha Dordenma
One of the largest Buddha statues in the world, overlooking the valley.
Takin Preserve
Home to Bhutan's national animal, the unique Takin.
Folk Heritage Museum
Discover traditional Bhutanese lifestyle and culture.
National Institute for Zorig Chusum
Witness students practicing Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts.
Tashichho Dzong
The impressive fortress housing government offices and the King's throne room.

Overnight Stay: Thimphu

Day 03

Drive from Thimphu to Punakha

Driving Time: Approx. 3 Hours

After breakfast, drive to the beautiful valley of Punakha via the scenic mountain pass.

Sightseeing En Route:

Dochula Pass
Famous for its 108 memorial stupas and breathtaking Himalayan views.

In Punakha:

Punakha Dzong
The most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, located between two rivers.
Suspension Bridge
One of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges with scenic river views.

Overnight Stay: Punakha

Day 04

Punakha Valley and Village Exploration

Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the peaceful Punakha valley.

Places to Visit:

Chimi Lhakhang
Also known as the Fertility Temple, associated with Lama Drukpa Kunley.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
A beautiful hilltop temple offering panoramic valley views.
Traditional Bhutanese village walk and rice field exploration.

Overnight Stay: Punakha

Day 05

Return to Paro and Sightseeing

Driving Time: Approx. 4-5 Hours

After breakfast, drive back to the beautiful valley of Paro.

Sightseeing in Paro:

Rinpung Dzong
A historic fortress showcasing stunning Bhutanese architecture.
National Museum of Bhutan
Explore Bhutanese history, culture, and traditional heritage.
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan.

Overnight Stay: Paro

Day 06

Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery

After breakfast, enjoy Bhutan's most iconic experience.

Excursion:

Paro Taktsang
Commonly known as Tiger's Nest Monastery, dramatically built on a cliffside 900 meters above the valley floor.

The hike takes approximately 4-5 hours round trip and offers spectacular mountain scenery and a spiritual atmosphere.

Evening:

Relax and explore Paro town for souvenir shopping and local cafes.

Overnight Stay: Paro

Day 07

Departure from Paro

Your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport according to your flight schedule.

As your unforgettable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon comes to an end, we bid you farewell and wish you a safe journey home. We hope to welcome you back to Bhutan for another unforgettable journey.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Paro International Airport (PBH) 3 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Package Includes

Accommodation in carefully selected hotels
Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotel
Lunch at selected tourist restaurants
Private transportation throughout the tour
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) / Government Royalty of USD 100 per person, per night
Bhutan Visa Fee of USD 40 per person (one-time fee)
All sightseeing, monument, and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Complimentary bottled drinking water provided daily
All applicable government taxes and tourism levies

What's Not Included

Travel insurance and medical expenses of any kind
Beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
Tips and gratuities for the guide, driver, and hotel staff
International airfare to/from Paro, Bhutan
Airport taxes and airline surcharges
Personal expenses such as:
- Laundry services
- Telephone calls
- Internet charges
- Camera/video fees (where applicable)
- Shopping and souvenirs
- Any other expenses of a personal nature
Any services not specifically mentioned under

What to bring

Valid passport
Comfortable walking shoes
Warm layers
Light rain jacket
Modest clothing for monastery, temple, and dzong visits
Cash in Ngultrum (BTN) for smaller purchases

Know before you go

A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity from the date of travel is required.
All international visitors (except nationals of visa-exempt countries) require a Bhutan visa, which we will arrange for you.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is included in your package.
Travel insurance covering medical expenses and trip cancellations is highly recommended.
Bhutan's weather can vary by season, so we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, and a light rain jacket.
The hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery takes approximately 4-5 hours (round trip) and requires a moderate level of fitness.
Please respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting monasteries, temples, and dzongs.
Bhutan uses the Ngultrum (BTN) as its local currency. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and larger shops, but carrying some cash is recommended.
Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, though speeds may vary depending on the location.