This magnificent excursion throughout Bhutan is a thrilling road trip that encompasses the country’s finest offerings. Beginning and concluding in the city of Paro, this itinerary is highlighted by a visit to the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery, also known as the tiger’s nest. This adventure immerses you in Bhutan’s exceptional attractions and cultural heritage, including a stop at some remarkable valleys and quaint villages, allowing you to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people, as well as the country’s exceptional natural beauty.
The journey features visits to glaciers and panoramic vistas of the eastern Himalayan mountain range, resulting in a stunning discovery of Bhutan’s vibrant and prosperous land.
Tour Highlights:
- Astonishing Taktsang Monastery,
- Bhutanese culture,
- Spectacular valleys and idyllic villages, Glaciers,
- Panoramic views of captivating Himalayan mountain ranges,
- Thunder Dragon.
Bhutan, also known as the Land of Happiness, is a diminutive country situated in South Asia that is famed for its unique customs, traditions, and picturesque landscapes. Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, it is bordered by Tibet to the north and India to the south. Bhutan has been secluded from the rest of the world for centuries, and this isolation has helped to maintain its distinctiveness in terms of culture and traditions.
Why Should One Consider Visiting Bhutan?
Bhutan is a treasure trove waiting to be uncovered. It offers tourists a one-of-a-kind cultural experience that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. From breathtaking landscapes to dynamic festivals, Bhutan has something for everyone.
Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Bhutan:
- Distinctive Culture – Bhutan boasts a culture that is steeped in Buddhist traditions. The country is home to many age-old temples, monasteries, and dzongs that are worth exploring. Additionally, the people of Bhutan are friendly and hospitable, always willing to share their culture with visitors.
- Scenic Landscapes – Bhutan’s natural beauty is unmatched. It is home to awe-inspiring landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and unspoiled forests. The best way to experience the country’s natural beauty is by trekking or hiking along its many trails.
- Dynamic Festivals – Bhutan is renowned for its vibrant festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. These festivals serve as a tribute to Bhutan’s culture and tradition and offer an exceptional way to experience the country’s unique ambience.
Arrive in Paro where you will be met by our Truly Bhutan team and transferred to the hotel. You will have a day sightseeing around Paro, sights visited Ta Dzong, Paro Rimpung Dzong, Kichu Lhakhang, and Drukgyel Dzong. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.
Places and attractions:
- Rinpung Dzong
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Taktshang
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Kila Gompa
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Tachog Lhakhang
- Dzongdrakha
After breakfast, you visit the Taktsang Monastery a highlight of the trip. The visit requires a short walk. After lunch, you drive to Thimphu where you will check in at the hotel and does an afternoon of sightseeing-sights visiting including- The National Memorial Chorten, Dupthob Lhakhang, Changkha Monastery, and the mini zoo. Finish the day off with a viewing at the Sangay Gang View Point (2685m) Overnight in Hotel in Thimphu.
Places and attractions:
- Tashichho Dzong
- Semthoka Dzong
- Dochu La Pass
- Memorial Chorten
- Changangkha Lhakhang
- Zangdopelri
- The Tallest Buddha Image
- Tango And Cheri Monasteries
- The Handicrafts Emporium
- Traditional Medicine
- Zorig Chusum Institute
- National Library
- Weekend Market
- Botanical Garden
- Thadrak Goemba
- Tashigang Goemba
- Chizhing Samtencholing Lhakhang
After breakfast, visit the National Library, Painting School, Traditional Medicine Institute, and Handicraft Emporium for shopping various Bhutanese Arts and Textiles. After lunch, we will hike to Tango Monastery a one-hour 280m climb. In the evening, visit the Tashicho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion). Overnight in Hotel in Thimphu.
Places and attractions:
- Tashichho Dzong
- Semthoka Dzong
- Dochu La Pass
- Memorial Chorten
- Changangkha Lhakhang
- Zangdopelri
- The Tallest Buddha Image
- Tango And Cheri Monasteries
- The Handicrafts Emporium
- Traditional Medicine
- Zorig Chusum Institute
- National Library
- Weekend Market
- Botanical Garden
- Thadrak Goemba
- Tashigang Goemba
- Chizhing Samtencholing Lhakhang
After early breakfast, drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass, where you can see 108 Bhutanese Stupas. If the weather is clear you can see the snow-capped Himalayas. Further drive to Punakha and visit Punakha Dzong. We have to walk across a long suspension bridge to reach the Dzong. In the evening short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility. Overnight in Hotel in Punakha.
Places and attractions:
- Punakha Dzong
- Khamsum Yulley
- Talo Goenpa
- Nalanda Buddhist College
- Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang
- Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup
- Limukha Village
- Ritsha Village
After breakfast, drive to Wangdue and visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong. Further driving you will reach Gangtey valley. Visit Gangtey Gompa from the outside. Explore Phobjikha valley, famous for the Black Necked Cranes during winter. En route, we will stop in different places for photography. In the evening drive back to Wangduephodrang.
Overnight in Hotel in Wangduephodrang.
Places and attractions:
- Dargay Goemba
- Gangtey Gompa
- Temple Of Sha Radap
- Gaselo & Nahee Village
- Adha And Rukha Village
- Shaa Region Of Wangdiphodrang
- Bhey Langdrag Nye
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu and visit Semtokha Dzong
After lunch drive to Paro. Overnight in Hotel in Paro.
Places and attractions:
- Rinpung Dzong
- Drukgyel Dzong
- Taktshang
- Kyichu Lhakhang
- Kila Gompa
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Tachog Lhakhang
- Dzongdrakha
Early breakfast, drive to Airport, and farewell for your return flight to your next destination.
The BHUTAN Breathtaking Tour lasts for 7 days, beginning and concluding in the city of Paro.
The tour highlights include visits to the astonishing Taktsang Monastery, experiencing Bhutanese culture, exploring spectacular valleys and idyllic villages, witnessing glaciers, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountain ranges, and experiencing the Thunder Dragon.
Bhutan offers a unique cultural experience, scenic landscapes, and dynamic festivals, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure.
The itinerary covers Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang, with visits to various temples, monasteries, and dzongs in each location.
On Day 2, after breakfast, tourists will visit the Taktsang Monastery and take a short walk. After lunch, they will drive to Thimphu for an afternoon of sightseeing, including visits to the National Memorial Chorten, Dupthob Lhakhang, Changangkha Monastery, and the mini zoo, finishing the day at the Sangay Gang View Point. Overnight stay is at a hotel in Thimphu.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
- 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium update).
- Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing
- Route Permit
- Three meals per day during your stay in Bhutan
- A licensed Bhutanese tour guide
- All land transportation by private vehicle
- Camping equipment and haulage for trekking tours
- Sightseeing as per itinerary
- Monuments entrance fees where applicable
- Drinking water
- All internal taxes and charges
- A sustainable development fee of $200. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, and poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)
- Airfare & Travel Insurance
- Expenses of personal nature, Tips to guides and drivers
- Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.
If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, the Bhutan Cultural Journey – Breathtaking Bhutan itinerary is one that you should consider. The itinerary is meticulously designed to offer visitors an authentic Bhutanese experience and includes some of the most popular destinations in the country.
Here is a brief overview of the itinerary:
- Paro – The itinerary commences in Paro, which is home to Bhutan’s sole international airport. Visitors can explore the town’s numerous temples and monasteries, including the renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Thimphu – Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is home to numerous important landmarks and attractions. Visitors can visit the National Memorial Chorten, the Tashichho Dzong, and the Buddha Dordenma statue.
- Punakha – Punakha is a striking valley located in the heart of Bhutan. Visitors can explore the Punakha Dzong, one of the most stunning dzongs in Bhutan.
- Gangtey – Gangtey, a secluded valley located in central Bhutan, is home to the Gangtey Monastery, which houses many ancient Buddhist texts.
- Bumthang – Bumthang, situated in eastern Bhutan, is a region where visitors can explore numerous temples and monasteries, including the celebrated Jakar Dzong.
In Conclusion, Bhutan is an extraordinary country that is waiting to be explored. It offers visitors a unique cultural experience that cannot be found elsewhere in the world. The Bhutan Cultural Journey – Breathtaking Bhutan itinerary is an excellent way to discover the country’s beauty and culture if you are planning a trip to Bhutan.
Bhutan Travel Info
Travel Essentials
- Travel/Medical Insurance: Ensure a worry-free journey with Bhutan's dedicated travel and medical insurance plans offered by the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan. Visit RICB for more information.
- Banking: Modern banking facilities are available in urban areas of Bhutan, with banks like Bank of Bhutan Limited, Druk PNB, and Bhutan National Bank. ATMs are common in Thimphu and Phuentsholing, but scarce in rural areas. Complete your banking in major cities.
- Money Matters: Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum (Nu), which is equivalent in value to the Indian Rupee. Foreign travelers should bring traveler’s cheques or cash, especially USD. Credit cards like Visa and American Express are accepted in most areas.
- Communication: Bhutan's telecommunications are well-developed with internet cafes, mobile phone coverage, and international roaming available in most towns.
- Electricity: Bhutan operates on 230 volts and 50 Hertz. Ensure your devices are compatible with the three types of plugs commonly used.
- Time Zone: Bhutan's time is six hours ahead of GMT.
Health, Safety, and Customs
- Health and Inoculations: Recommended vaccinations include tetanus, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Avoid untreated water and ice cubes; instead, opt for bottled water, which is readily available.
- Safety Precautions: Bhutan is generally safe, but avoid walking alone or staying out late, especially after 9 PM. Secure your belongings, particularly in the capital, Thimphu.
- Customs Regulations: Personal belongings, 1 liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes, and professional equipment are exempt from customs duty. Importing restricted items, such as wildlife products, antiques, and drugs, is prohibited.
Accommodation, Food, and Shopping
- Accommodation: Bhutan offers a range of accommodations, from quality 3-star to luxury 5-star hotels in places like Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha. Travelers can also opt for camping when venturing beyond urban areas.
- Food: Bhutanese cuisine is rich and spicy, featuring dishes like ema datshi. International cuisine such as Indian, Continental, and Chinese is available in most restaurants, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
- Shopping: Bhutan offers unique handicrafts, including hand-woven textiles, wooden bowls (Dapas), silver statues, Thangkas, and local postage stamps. Note that the buying and selling of antiques is strictly prohibited.
Travel Kits and Clothing
- Clothing and Essentials: Bhutan's climate is diverse, so dress in layers and pack accordingly. Respectful clothing is required when visiting monasteries and religious sites, and hats should be removed in sacred areas.
- Travel Kits: Pack items like sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, antihistamine cream, anti-diarrhea pills, a flashlight, warm clothes, and a hat. The diverse climate means temperatures range from 20-25°C in summer to below 15°C in winter.
Experiences and Activities
- Photography: Capture Bhutan's stunning landscapes, rural life, and architecture. Indoor photography in sacred sites requires special permission.
- Guides and Interpreters: Bhutan offers certified guides fluent in various languages, ensuring you get the best experience when visiting sacred sites and cultural landmarks.
- Festivals and Holidays: Each district in Bhutan celebrates its unique annual tshechu. Check local schedules to plan your visit around these vibrant festivals.
- Weights and Measures: Bhutan uses metric measurements for weight, with advanced electronic scales commonly found in major cities.
- Best Price Guaranteed
- Book Now, Pay Later
- Local Expertise
- Hand-Picked Hotels
- Value for money
- Quality Service
- Responsible Tourism
- Tailor-Made Holidays
- No Booking Fee
- 100% Visa Approval
- 24/7 Customer Service
- No Hidden Costs
