Bhutan Tour Package - 8 Days

  • Duration:8 Days
Highlights
  • Explore the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliffside
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, traditions, and beliefs of Bhutanese culture
  • Visit the Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most stunning fortresses, nestled at the confluence of two rivers
  • Drive through pristine landscapes surrounded by snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and cascading waterfalls
  • Savor delicious local cuisine and engage with the welcoming locals
  • Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens and offers panoramic views of the Himalayas
  • Discover Bhutan's rich textile heritage at the Royal Textile Academy, where intricate weavings and traditional designs come to life
  • Marvel at the intricate wall paintings, artifacts, and spiritual atmosphere while exploring dzongs and monasteries

"Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. On this 8-day Bhutan tour, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the country. Explore ancient fortresses, visit serene monasteries, and wander through lovely towns, all while discovering the true meaning of happiness in a land that measures its progress by the well-being of its people."

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon. It is a place where ancient traditions harmoniously coexist with modernity. Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism and shows in every aspect of the daily life of the locals. Monasteries and temples dot the landscape, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

As you venture through Bhutan, you'll discover beautiful mountain villages, ancient fortresses, and intricately adorned shrines that offer a glimpse into the heart of Buddhist culture. During the Bhutan tour 8 days, you will get many opportunities to engage with the locals. Bhutanese people are known for their warm hospitality and kindness. 

Prepare to be captivated by the untouched beauty of Bhutan's mountain villages. Time seems to stand still in these remote communities, where traditional ways of life have been preserved for generations. Engage with the villagers, hear their tales, and witness their daily routines as they tend their fields, create exquisite handicrafts, or partake in age-old rituals.

As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll encounter magnificent fortresses known as dzongs, perched on hilltops and overlooking breathtaking valleys. These architectural marvels not only serve as administrative centers but also as spiritual sanctuaries. The dzongs hold the essence of Bhutanese culture, and exploring their ornate halls and sacred chambers is like delving into a living history book.

No journey through Bhutan is complete without visiting its revered shrines and temples. Decorated with vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, these sacred sites offer a serene retreat for reflection and contemplation. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic chants of monks and soak in the spiritual energy that permeates the air. Each temple tells a story of devotion and faith, and you'll find yourself drawn to the ancient rituals and profound wisdom that are an integral part of Bhutanese Buddhism.

8 days Bhutan tour itinerary summary

Our 8-day Bhutan tour will take you to cities, like Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, and Bumthang. During the tour, you will visit numerous monuments and explore the Bhutanese traditions and beliefs. The tour begins with your arrival in Paro and a drive to Thimphu. In Thimphu, you will visit places like Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Giant Buddha Statue, Heritage Museum, Textile Museum, Thimphu Dzong, Paper Factory, and Simtokha Dzong.

From Thimphu, the tour continues to Punakha via the DochuLa pass. During your time in Punakha, you will be exploring Punakha Dzong- built in 1637 and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. It took over eight and half years to build this chorten. The next part of the tour then goes to Bumthang via Trongsa. The road goes via Yotong La pass. Bumthang is considered a haven for hikers. Here, you will explore Tamshing Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Jambay Lhakhang.

After exploring Bumthan, you will drive back to Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang, a holy site famous for blessing barren women with fertility. Once again, cross the DochuLa pass and come back to Paro. You will now spend a couple of nights in Paro exploring Rinpung Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong, and Kyichu Lhakhang. On the last full day of the Bhutan tour, you will visit Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. This part of the tour involves wonderful hiking.

Given the pace of our itinerary and the places it covers, it is the best Bhutan tour package. We have full transparency in our cost and travel policy. And there are no hidden charges. Join us on our Bhutan tour 2023/2024 departure and explore the wonders of this beautiful Himalayan nation.

Itinerary

Our representative will pick you up from Paro International Airport. To acclimatize, we will drive to Thimphu (2,350m/7,710 ft) and spend the night there. The drive from Paro to Thimphu is comfortable and scenic. Upon reaching Thimphu, we will check in at the hotel and spend a few hours resting. 

Depending on our arrival time, we will visit Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, and the Giant Buddha statue. If time doesn't allow us to explore these places, we will visit the local market and try Bhutanese cuisine.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,250 m/7,382 ft
  • Time:1.5 hours Drive
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Before we leave Thimphu and drive to Punakha, we will visit the Heritage Museum, which displays the rural Bhutanese artifacts used in households. After that, we will visit the Textile Museum to learn about the art of traditional weaving. From here, the tour goes to Thimphu Dzong, which is the office of the King of Bhutan. 

We will then visit the Paper Factory to see the Bhutanese art of paper making and drive to Simtokha Dzong, which is five miles away from Thimphu on a loft ridge. It is the oldest fortress in Bhutan. If we happen to be in Thimphu on Saturday or Sunday, we will also visit the Centenary Farmers’ Market.

After exploring Thimphu, we will begin our ride toward Punakha. The road goes via DochuLa pass (3,050m/10,000 ft), from where we get to see the northern Tibetan mountains. From the pass, the road descends to Punakha Valley. We will spend the evening exploring the local market and trying Bhutanese delicacies.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,320 m/7,611 ft
  • Time:5 Hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel

We will wake up early in the morning and have a delicious breakfast. After that, we will go on a short tour of Punakha. First, we will visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the division of two rivers. This dzong serves as the winter home for Chief Abbott and offers a fantastic example of Bhutanese craftsmanship. 

From here, we will visit the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by the third queen mother, Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck. It took over eight and half years to build this chorten, and the architecture is one of a kind in the world. 

After the tour in Punakha, we will drive to Bumthang via Trongsa (2,200 m/7,218 ft). On the way, we will traverse via the Yotong-La Pass and enter Chumey valley. From here, we can hike for 15 minutes to reach Prakar monastery. Further, we will drive past Yathra Weaving Center and continue to Jakar, which is the center of Bumthang valley. If we get the permits, we will visit the Swiss Farm Area with the fruit and beer factory.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,800 m/9,186 ft
  • Time:5 Hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Today, we will spend a full day exploring Bumthang. This place has a sacred value for the locals and is also known as a haven for hikers. Here, we will visit some of the significant monasteries like Tamshing Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Jambay Lhakhang. 

Tamshing Lhakhang is the treasure house of intriguing Buddhist paintings, whereas Kurje Lhakhang is one of the most important temples in the country. We will also visit Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the valley, and explore the local market in the evening.

 

  • Accommodation:Hotel

We will drive back to Punakha on this day. The drive is long and offers scenic views. As per our arrival time in Punakha, we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, a holy site famous for blessing barren women with fertility.

  • Max. Altitude:2,320 m/7,611 ft
  • Time:6-7 hours
  • Accommodation:Hotel

We will have breakfast and drive to Paro crossing DochuLa pass once again. The mountain views are wonderful along the way. As per our arrival time in Paro, we will visit Rinpung Dzong, the seat of the district administration and the residence of the monastic school. 

It is also famous for wall murals depicting Buddhist parables, symbols, and the lives of prominent saints. Later, we will visit Drukgyel Dzong, from where we get to see the stunning view of Mt. Chomolhari and also visit a 7th-century temple known as Kyichu Lhakhang.

 

  • Max. Altitude:2,250 m/7,382 ft
  • Time:4-5 hurs
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Early in the morning, we will go on a short and adventurous hike to Tiger's Nest, also known as Taktsang Monastery. From the starting point of the trail, it is a steep couple of hours of climbing. If you are up for more adventure, we can hike beyond Taktsang Monastery to places such as Zangdopelri and Ugyen Tshemo.

After the hike, we will return to our hotel and have lunch. Later, we will visit the remaining tourist sites and shop in the local market. In the evening, we will have a delicious Bhutanese dinner. As today is our last day in Bhutan, make sure to get souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones.

 

  • Max. Altitude:3,120 m/10,236 ft
  • Accommodation:Hotel

The guide will drop us at the Paro International Airport for our flight to the next destination. We will leave the hotel 3 hours before flight departure time.

    Useful Information

    Difficulty and Altitude Sickness

    It is an easy tour, and there is no difficult part. We use a comfortable vehicle to move around the city. Light walking is involved while touring the historical sites. At the end of the tour, you will hike to Taktsang monastery. The hiking trail is well-made and doable for anyone. Even though Bhutan is at a high elevation, the altitude sickness risk is quite low on this tour. Our Bhutan tour itinerary is designed to let you acclimatize while traveling around the country. 

    If you feel any difficulty like shortness of breath, loss of appetite, vomiting, headache, nausea, etc, inform your guide as soon as possible. He will give you the necessary first aid and help you overcome the symptoms. Anyone can join us on our Bhutan tour from Nepal. We do not have any special requirements for this tour.

    Accommodation

    You will stay overnight in the nice hotels during the Bhutan tour 8 days. As per your comfort, we will book a single room or twin shared rooms. The rooms will have a private washroom and all the modern amenities from TV to WiFi and AC. We will make sure to book a safe and clean hotel for your stay during the tour. If you wish to upgrade the accommodation to luxury, let us know.

    Meals

    Our package covers three meals a day during the Bhutan tour. You will have a wide variety of cuisine to choose from for your meals. However, Bhutanese cuisine will be in the limelight of the trip. Bhutanese cuisine is unique and flavorful, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and use of locally sourced ingredients. Traditional Bhutanese meals often feature red rice, spicy chilies, cheese, and a variety of vegetables, creating a wholesome and balanced dining experience.

    Some of the most iconic dishes in Bhutan are Ema Datshi- a spicy chili and cheese stew, Jasha Maroo- a flavorful Bhutanese chicken stew, Kewa Datshi, Goepchang, momos, butter tea, etc. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, Bhutan has something to offer for every palate. Similarly, clean drinking water is also available throughout the tour.

    Guide during the tour

    One of the key aspects that can greatly enhance your journey is having a knowledgeable and friendly guide by your side. Our guides are local experts with years of experience in the tourism industry. They possess an in-depth knowledge of Bhutan's history, traditions, and landmarks. They have undergone rigorous training and are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, ensuring that you receive accurate and insightful information about the places you visit.

    When it comes to exploring Bhutan, our guide's friendly nature is a true asset. They are warm, approachable, and genuinely care about creating a positive and enjoyable experience for each traveler. From the moment you meet them, you'll be greeted with a smile and a genuine eagerness to share their love for Bhutan with you.

    Our guide understands that every traveler has unique interests and preferences. They will take the time to get to know you, listen to your preferences, and tailor the itinerary accordingly. Whether you are interested in visiting ancient monasteries, embarking on scenic hikes, or immersing yourself in the local culture, our guide will ensure that your Bhutan tour is customized to meet your expectations.

    Packing for the tour

    Preparing for your Bhutan tour requires careful planning and packing to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Remember to pack according to the season and activities you plan to engage in. Be mindful of Bhutan's cultural norms and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Layering your clothing will help you adjust to different temperatures throughout the day.

    Below is the comprehensive packing list to help you get ready for the Bhutan tour:

    Clothing:

    • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for outdoor activities
    • Lightweight and breathable clothing for warm days
    • Layered clothing for cooler temperatures, including a light jacket or sweater
    • Rain jacket or waterproof outer layer
    • Hat or cap for sun protection
    • Scarf or shawl for visiting temples and monasteries (to cover shoulders)
    • Swimwear (if you plan to visit hot springs or stay in hotels with pools)

    Travel Essentials:

    • Valid passport (with at least six months validity from your date of entry)
    • Bhutan visa (arranged by your travel agent)
    • Photocopies of important travel documents (passport, visa, itinerary)
    • Travel insurance (including emergency medical coverage)
    • Cash (preferably in small denominations) and/or credit/debit cards
    • Travel adapter and charger for electronic devices
    • Portable power bank for charging on the go
    • Personal identification and emergency contact details
    • Daypack or backpack for day trips and hikes

    Health and Personal Care:

    • Prescription medications (in their original containers) and a copy of the prescription
    • Basic first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic ointment, etc.)
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunscreen (with high SPF)
    • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
    • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
    • Personal hygiene products

    Electronics and Miscellaneous:

    • Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
    • Memory cards or extra batteries for your devices
    • Binoculars for birdwatching or scenic views
    • Travel guidebooks or maps of Bhutan
    • Lightweight travel umbrella
    • Ziplock bags (for storing wet or dirty clothes)
    • Snacks and water bottle (to stay hydrated during your travels)
    • Trekking poles (if you plan to go hiking)

    Optional Items:

    • Portable alarm clock or travel alarm app
    • Travel pillow and eye mask for long journeys
    • Portable clothesline for drying laundry
    • Travel laundry detergent (for washing clothes)
    • Books or entertainment for leisure time

    Travel Tips

    1. Plan your trip in advance: Bhutan has a limited number of tourist visas issued per year, so book your tour in advance to secure your spot.

    2. Use a licensed Bhutanese tour operator: Bhutan requires all tourists to book their travel through a licensed tour operator like us. We will arrange your visa, accommodations, transportation, and guide services.

    3. Respect the local customs and traditions: Bhutan is deeply rooted in its culture and traditions. Respect the customs, dress modestly, and follow the etiquette when visiting religious sites.

    4. Be prepared for high-altitude locations: Bhutan has several high-altitude destinations. Take it slow to acclimatize and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.

    5. Exchange currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency. Exchange currency at the airport or local banks. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some establishments, but carry cash for smaller vendors and remote areas.

    6. Take care of the environment: Bhutan is known for its pristine landscapes. Respect the environment by avoiding littering and following eco-friendly practices.

    7. Stay connected: While Bhutan's remote areas may have limited connectivity, major towns, and hotels offer Wi-Fi and mobile network coverage. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for convenience.

    8. Carry necessary medications: If you have any specific medical needs or require prescription medications, ensure you carry an adequate supply, as some medicines may not be readily available in Bhutan.

    9. Be mindful of photography restrictions: Seek permission before taking photographs of individuals, religious sites, or government buildings. Respect the privacy and cultural sensitivities of the locals.

    10. Leave no trace: Bhutan places great emphasis on environmental conservation. Follow the principle of "Leave No Trace" by not disturbing the flora and fauna and leaving natural areas as you found them.

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    Bhutan Tour Package - 8 Days FAQs
    • One week to ten days is perfect to travel to Bhutan without rushing. Our itinerary is 8 days long, and we also tailor-made it as per our guest's availability. Feel free to contact us anytime to custom design the Bhutan tour itinerary to perfectly suit you.

    • An 8-day Bhutan tour may cost around USD 3200 to USD 3500. The cost differs as per the number of days. The daily visa fee of USD 200 makes the Bhutan tour package more costly than any other tour.

    • The best time to visit Bhutan is from March to May, when the valleys are blooming with hundreds and thousands of flowers. Likewise, the weather is fantastic in these months, and there are lots of festivities going on as well, which makes traveling very immersive. Apart from that, you can also travel to Bhutan in the autumn and winter seasons.

    • Yes, you can drink alcohol in Bhutan. Beverages like beer are sold in public places. However, do note that foreigners are only allowed to carry a maximum of 1 liter of alcoholic spirits on them.

    • To have a safe journey, we will recommend not driving at night time, wearing a seatbelt, and looking for any prohibition signs before taking pictures inside the monuments. And respect the local norms and practices.

    • Yes, you will need a visa to go to Bhutan. Indians can enter Bhutan without a visa, however, needs an entry permit issued by the Department of Immigration in the Pedestrian Terminal at Phuentsholing based on a valid Travel Document. 

    • From Nepal, you can visit Bhutan by taking an hour-long flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Paro International Airport. You can only use Bhutanese Airlines to fly from Nepal to Bhutan. As you cannot travel solo in Bhutan, a package like this is a great option.

    • If you want to explore Bhutan, then the best way is to look for a package that matches your holiday time frame. With a company like ours, you can also customize the Bhutan tour as per your requirements. We can design the itinerary and make changes to the services as per your budget.

    • The WiFi facility is great in Bhutan. All the hotels will have free WiFi service. You can get a travelers sim and use data to stay connected with your loved ones all the time.