5 days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
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A Perfect Introduction to the Land of Gross National Happiness
Overview:
Experience the timeless charm of Bhutan on this beautifully curated short journey that blends spiritual heritage, natural beauty, and cultural encounters. From sacred monasteries perched on cliffs to serene valleys and vibrant towns, this itinerary offers a meaningful first glimpse into the heart of the Himalayas.
Overnight: Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport aboard Bhutan’s national airlines, Druk Air or Tashi Air, on one of the world’s most spectacular mountain flights. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Mount Jomolhari — a truly unforgettable introduction to Bhutan.
Upon arrival, receive a warm traditional welcome from your professional guide and driver. Begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city (55 km / approx. 1.5 hours). The journey unfolds through the idyllic Paro Valley, with its emerald rice fields, apple orchards, traditional farmhouses, crystal-clear rivers, and dramatic mountain backdrops. Photo stops are made along the way to capture the stunning scenery.
Check in to your hotel in Thimphu and enjoy lunch at one of the town’s finest local restaurants that depends on arrival time.
In the afternoon, explore:
Evening at leisure.
Overnight in Thimphu
Overnight: Thimphu
After breakfast, drive about 15 km north of Thimphu Valley to begin a gentle and rewarding hike through pristine forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron.
Your first destination is Cheri (Chagri) Monastery, founded in 1619 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Known as Bhutan’s first monastic university, the monastery is beautifully perched above the valley and offers a tranquil atmosphere with stunning natural surroundings.
After descending, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch by the riverside.
Later, visit Tango Monastery, a 13th-century Buddhist institute rebuilt in the 17th century by the 4th Desi, Tenzin Rabgye. Today, it serves as an important center for higher Buddhist studies and a residence for senior monks and incarnate lamas.
Return to Thimphu in the evening.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Overnight: Paro
After breakfast, visit Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point), one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. The site offers commanding panoramic views over Thimphu Valley and exudes a powerful sense of peace and spirituality.
Enjoy lunch before driving to Paro, a beautiful valley town rich in history and culture.
In the afternoon, explore:
Check in to your hotel in Paro.
Evening at leisure.
Overnight in Paro
Overnight: Paro
After breakfast, proceed to the base of the legendary Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest.
Embark on a memorable hike through pine forests adorned with prayer flags to this iconic monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff 800 meters above the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this sacred site on the back of a tigress in the 8th century and meditated in a cave, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The monastery, built in the 17th century, remains one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the country.
Approximate hiking time:
A cafeteria at the midway point offers refreshments and spectacular views.
After descending, return to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening at leisure.
Overnight in Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your guide will assist with departure formalities and bid you farewell.
Tashi Delek!
May the spirit of Bhutan remain with you long after your journey ends.
There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is used throughout Bhutan’s education system, so it is widely used and understood.
Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied.
In the south, the humid, subtropical climate is fairly consistent year-round, with temperatures between 15oC and 30oC. Central Bhutan, with its temperate forests, has a more seasonal climate, with warm summers and cool, dry winters. The northern regions are much colder during winter. Because of the high altitude, mountain peaks are snowy year-round and the lower reaches remain cool in summer.
In summer, the Indian monsoon season runs from late June or July to late September, mostly affecting the southern regions. Most farming activities take place in the summer, when crops thrive in verdant landscapes.
Autumn, from late September or early October to late November, follows the rainy season. It is characterised by bright, sunny days and some early snowfall at higher elevations. It’s the season of feasts and festivals as farmers reap the fruits of their work.
From late November until March, the crisp, clear and sunny winter sets in, with frost throughout much of the country and snowfall common above elevations of 3,000 metres. The winter northeast monsoon brings gale-force winds at the highest altitudes through high mountain passes, giving Bhutan the name Drukyul, which means Land of the Thunder Dragon in Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language).
Bhutan’s generally dry spring starts in early March and lasts until mid-April. It is a botanist’s delight, with nature in full bloom. Summer weather commences in mid-April with occasional showers and continues to late June.
Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India, require a visa before entering Bhutan. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh and the Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, but this can be applied for and approved either in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.
Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.
No, there are no restricted nationalities in Bhutan.
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a daily levy paid by visitors to support Bhutan’s development. Since the kingdom first opened its doors in 1974, guests have played a critical role in our country’s growth.
The SDF is collected by the national exchequer and funds are allocated to various projects that create long-term, sustainable opportunities for the Bhutanese people, through free healthcare, education and training, upskilling the tourism and hospitality industry, improved infrastructure, environmental preservation and conservation, cultural preservation programmes and initiatives that support local businesses and economies. The SDF is also a vital means of maintaining the exceptional forest cover and carbon-neutrality for which our small nation is world-renowned and globally critical. The SDF also helps us to ensure that we can continue to offer guests tranquillity and an intimate experience.
The SDF is USD 100 per night for adults from all countries except for India. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay USD 50 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
The SDF for Indian nationals (showing a valid Indian passport or Voter ID card) is Nu. 1,200 (or the equivalent amount in Indian rupees) per person, per night. Children aged between 6 years and who have not yet turned 12 are eligible to pay Nu./INR 600 per night. Children who have not yet turned 6 years old do not have to pay any SDF.
You may bring cash equivalent to US$10,000 into the country.
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