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Ultimate Bhutan

Not Rated
Duration

09 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

30 people

Languages

English

Experience the very best of Bhutan on this immersive 9-day journey through the country’s most spectacular valleys and cultural treasures. From the vibrant capital of Thimphu and the historic Punakha Valley to the serene Phobjikha Valley, spiritual Bumthang, and picturesque Paro, this tour showcases Bhutan’s breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, majestic dzongs, and deeply rooted Buddhist heritage. Witness pristine nature, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, explore centuries-old temples, and enjoy authentic Bhutanese hospitality for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Highlights

  • Traditional Bhutanese welcome upon arrival in Paro.
  • Explore the capital city of Thimphu and its cultural landmarks.
  • Visit the National Memorial Chorten, Heritage Museum, and Changangkha Lhakhang.
  • Scenic drive across the breathtaking Dochula Pass with Himalayan panoramas.
  • Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong and Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten.
  • Visit the famous Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
  • Discover the beautiful Phobjikha (Gangtey) Valley, home to Black-necked Cranes (seasonal).
  • Visit the historic Gangtey Monastery and Trongsa Dzong.
  • Explore the spiritual heart of Bhutan in Bumthang, including Kurjey Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, and Tamshing Monastery.
  • Enjoy a scenic domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro.
  • Visit Ta Dzong Museum and Rinpung Dzong.
  • Hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang).
  • Visit the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang Temple.

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO, PARO - THIMPHU (55 KMS / 1.5 HRS DRIVE)

Arrive Paro international airport. Meet and greet upon arrival. Pick- up and drive to Thimpu by Transport.

Upon arrival at Thimpu, check-in at hotel. Rest day at leisure.

In the afternoon visit to King's Memorial Chorten continuously circumambulated by people, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 02: Thimphu – Punakha (75 Kms/03 Hrs)

Morning after breakfast, visit some of the highlights of the capital, including one of the oldest temples in Thimphu, 12th century Changangkha Lhakhang (Lhakhang means temple) and the National Memorial Chorten, first initiated by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernisation, and as a monument to world peace. Also visit Heritage Museum. After lunch drive to Punakha. Upon arrival check-in at hotel.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 03: Punakha

Morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through rice fields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk.Also visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’. The three-story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breath-taking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver.

Later drive to Punakha valley for a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly, known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He preached people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. Devotees visit his temple for blessing of fertility and children.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 04: Punakha – Gangtey/ Phobjikha (75 Kms/2.5 Hrs)

Morning after breakfast, drive to Gangtey, over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), here you can enjoy glimpses of an incredible view of Himalayan peaks. Phobjikha Valley also known as Gangtey Valley, is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau.

Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

DAY 05: Phobjikha Valley – Bumthang (170 Kms/05 Hrs)

Morning after breakfast, visit Phobjikha Sanctuary to view the majestic black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and Gangtey Gompa (Monastery), dating back to the 16th century. Later Afterwards drive by luxury 4WD over the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range towards Trongsa. Enroute visit the beautiful 18th century Chendebji Chorten. Trongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest Dzong in Bhutan and the Ta Dzong museum housing a collection of historical artifacts of the Royal Family.

Continue driving towards Bumthang (2.5 hrs), the spiritual of the kingdom. Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest Palaces, Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 06: Bumthang

Morning after breakfast, visit Kurjey Lhakhang - one of the Kingdoms oldest & sacred temples, where Bhutan’s patron Saint Guru Rimpoche meditated. It dates back to the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan and is one of the Kingdoms oldest temples. Also visit Jakar Dzong and Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pemalingpa and containing interesting and ancient Buddhist wall paintings.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 07: Bumthang – Paro

Enjoy a stunning mountain flight with incredible views over Bhutan from Bumthang back to the Paro Valley. On arrival visit Ta Dzong Museum, many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. Also visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 08: Paro

Morning after breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery. The track is a 02 hrs walking uphill. Who cannot hike, can hire a pony to reach viewing point. The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. Also visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.

Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 09: DEPART PARO

Morning after breakfast, transfer to airport to board flight for onward journey.

  • Meet & greet assistance upon arrival and departure.
  • 8 nights accommodation in selected hotels.
  • Daily breakfast at hotels.
  • Private transportation throughout the tour.
  • Airport transfers.
  • Domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro.
  • English-speaking local guide.
  • Sightseeing as per the itinerary.
  • Visits to monasteries, dzongs, museums, and cultural attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
  • All applicable local taxes.
  • International airfare.
  • Bhutan Visa and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), if applicable.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Lunches and dinners unless specifically mentioned.
  • Monument and monastery entrance fees.
  • Pony hire during the Tiger's Nest hike (optional).
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, shopping, and telephone charges.
  • Camera/video fees where applicable.
  • Tips for guides and drivers.
  • Expenses caused by flight delays, weather conditions, road closures, natural disasters, or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Anything not specifically mentioned under "Included".

Multi day

English

Tour's Location

1. What makes this the "Ultimate Bhutan" tour?

This itinerary covers Bhutan's most iconic destinations, including Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley, Bumthang, and Paro, offering a perfect blend of culture, spirituality, nature, and Himalayan scenery.

2. When can I see the Black-necked Cranes?

The endangered Black-necked Cranes migrate to Phobjikha Valley between November and March, making winter the best season for birdwatching.

3. Is the Tiger's Nest Monastery hike compulsory?

No. While the hike is highly recommended, travelers who cannot complete it may hire a pony up to the viewpoint (subject to availability), followed by a short walk.

4. What is special about Bumthang?

Bumthang is considered the spiritual heart of Bhutan and is home to some of the country's oldest monasteries, sacred temples, royal history, and important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

5. What is the best time to visit Bhutan?
  • The best seasons are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn), offering pleasant weather, clear mountain views, and vibrant festivals. Winter (November–March) is ideal for spotting Black-necked Cranes.
6. Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Bhutan?

Yes. This comprehensive itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Bhutan's major cultural landmarks, scenic valleys, monasteries, Himalayan landscapes, and authentic local traditions in one memorable journey.

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