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Best of Bhutan Tour – 7 Days
5/5 based on 37 reviews
Trip Duration
7 Days
Group Sizes
1 to 25 People People
Difficulty
Easy
Max. Altitude
3350
Activities
Meals
Accommodation
The Best of Bhutan Tour is a seven day exploration of the western valleys of Bhutan that introduces you to Bhutanese monasteries, historic fortress monasteries, mountain passes, traditional villages, and everyday life. This is a perfect itinerary that will allow one to explore Bhutan beyond its popular sites at a relaxed pace by travelling through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang and Gangtey.
The trip starts in Paro and proceeds to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. You will see Tachog Lhakhang and the historic Iron Chain Bridge on the way and the cultural sites of the city, such as Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, and local handicraft markets. Museums, conventional art centres, and the possibility to watch the everyday life give a deeper insight into the customs, architecture, and religious customs of Bhutan.
The road leaves Thimphu and passes over Dochu La Pass and then down to the fertile Punakha Valley. Here, you will visit Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong, both closely connected with Bhutanese history and Buddhism. It is also accompanied by a trip to Gangtey where serene farmland, woodland trails, the Black Necked Crane Information Centre and Gangtey Monastery offers a contrasting face of the nation. The valley is also home to the migratory black necked cranes which spend their winter in the valley depending on the season.
The last segment of the tour will take you back to Paro where you will visit Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum, and the popular hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger Nest. This monastery is built high on a rocky cliff and is one of the most revered religious sites in Bhutan, making it a highlight of the journey. Depending on your flight time, you may also have time to visit other temples or other viewpoints before you board your flight.
Mega Treks and Expedition takes care of all the transports, accommodation, permits and guided tours during the tour. Our experienced local guides share insights into Bhutan’s history, religion, and traditions while ensuring that each day is organised at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.
This Best of Bhutan Tour Package is ideal for couples, families, solo travellers, and small groups seeking a balanced introduction to Bhutan. Buddhist heritage, traditional architecture, local culture, or mountain scenery, this 7 Days Bhutan Tour will be a well planned trip to some of the most important places in this country.
Your Best of Bhutan Tour begins with your arrival at Paro International Airport, where our representative will warmly welcome you. We will start with a scenic drive to Thimphu after meeting your guide, along the Paro Chuu and Wang Chuu valleys. Along the road we visit Tachog Lhakhang, one of the ancient temples linked together by a traditional iron chain bridge constructed by the famous Tibetan master Thangtong Gyalpo.
After checking into your hotel, there will be time to relax before exploring the capital. We will have a relaxed stroll through Norzin Lam, the central street of the city, where we will find local shops and cafes as well as handicraft shops where we can get an idea of what daily life in Bhutan is like. Before we go back to the hotel we will also visit the handicraft market. With time, there might be more sightseeing in the afternoon.
Today’s programme is dedicated to exploring the cultural attractions of Bhutan’s capital. The morning will start with a visit to Buddha Dordenma where the massive bronze statue is located overlooking the Thimphu Valley. A short walk to the nearby viewpoint provides panoramic views before we continue to Memorial Chorten, where local residents gather each day for prayers and religious rituals.
Later, we will visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which presents traditional Bhutanese village life through carefully preserved exhibits. If the museum is closed on Sunday, we will visit Simply Bhutan instead. The tour goes on to Motithang Takin Preserve, the Handmade Paper Factory and a traditional Thangka Painting Centre, where centuries-old methods of painting are carried on by the local artists. We will visit the administrative and religious centre of Bhutan, Tashichho Dzong before returning to the hotel.
After breakfast, we will leave Thimphu and travel towards Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochu La Pass. The pass has a view of the eastern Himalayan range on clear days and the 108 memorial chortens provide a serene mountain environment. We will also make a stop at Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, which is close to the top of the pass.
Descending into the Punakha Valley, a pleasant walk through farmland and small villages brings us to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley. During the afternoon, we continue to Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. We will then explore the dzong before proceeding to Wangdue Phodrang, where we will spend the night.
This morning, we will travel to the peaceful Gangtey Valley, crossing Lawa La Pass along the way. Small roadside stalls often sell local products, offering a glimpse into daily life in this part of Bhutan. Once we reach the valley, we will go to the Black Necked Crane Information Centre where you will learn about these migratory birds and how they visit Gangtey seasonally.
It is also in the sightseeing of the day, where a visit to a traditional farmhouse is planned and there might be an opportunity to taste the local refreshments and to get to know about the rural life. Then we will have a pleasant stroll along the valley, going by meadowland, farmland, and forest until we come to Gangtey Monastery, a significant religious centre of the Nyingma school. After exploring the monastery, we will return to Wangdue Phodrang for the evening.
After breakfast, we will begin the return journey to Paro, travelling once again through the beautiful mountain landscapes of western Bhutan. It could be another opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas as we cross through Dochu La Pass provided that the weather is clear. We will go on through forested hills and valleys to Paro in the afternoon.
We will then go to the National Museum of Bhutan, which is located within the historic Ta Dzong watchtower, after lunch. The museum has a broad range of traditional costumes, religious artefacts, handicrafts and historical exhibits which give one an understanding of the heritage of Bhutan.
Then we move on to Rinpung Dzong, a very grand fort monastery overlooking Paro Valley and one of the finest examples of traditional architecture in Bhutan. Before coming back to the hotel, it might be possible to walk in the town of Paro, visit the local handicraft stores, or just have a rest and enjoy the quietness of the valley.
The most memorable experience of the Best of Bhutan Tour is to be seen today. We will start our drive to the trailhead after breakfast and begin the hiking to Taktsang Monastery otherwise referred to as Tiger Nest. The good trail slowly ascends through pine forests adorned with colourful prayer flags to one of the holiest Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan.
The ascent usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your walking pace. Those who are less ambitious can end up at the viewpoint cafeteria where they can get great views of the monastery. After visiting Tiger’s Nest, we will descend to the valley and continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most respected temples. If time permits, you may also enjoy some free time in Paro for shopping or relaxing before spending your final evening in Bhutan.
On your last day, you will have breakfast at the hotel then get ready to leave. If time permits, we may visit Dumtse Lhakhang., a special temple constructed by the great master Thangtong Gyalpo, depending on your flight schedule. With time, there could be also an opportunity to pay the National Museum a visit or do some last minute shopping in Paro.
We can visit the Paro Airport Viewpoint before we head to the airport, where you can observe the aircraft landing and taking off against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. We will then take you to the Paro International Airport at the right time to board the flight to your next destination and this will be the end of your Bhutan Cultural Tour. We hope to welcome you again on another journey with Mega Treks and Expedition.
You can cutomize this trip as per your requirements if met the proper guidelines.
The Best of Bhutan Tour is a medium to light tourism package that is aimed at those travellers who are more interested in culture, history, and spectacular views as opposed to physically challenging tours. The majority of the trip is made by personal car, with easy sightseeing walks in monasteries, museums, villages, and traditional markets. The tour program is family friendly, couple friendly, suitable for elderly travellers and reasonably fit.
The hike to Taktsang Monastery, popularly referred to as Tiger Nest, is the most active part of the tour. The path ascends gradually through pine trees and it typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to get to the monastery and then a slow downward path. Those who want to walk less can still visit the viewpoint cafeteria and have a view of the monastery that is still impressive.
The Best of Bhutan Tour is not a trek, but the sightseeing will be more enjoyable with comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and a small day pack. You can walk at your own pace and make frequent rests so that you have a comfortable experience during the trip.
The Best of Bhutan Tour Package offers accommodation in well-chosen tourist standard hotels with comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, and modern facilities. You will be lodged in good hotels in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha or Wangdue region, which will ensure that you are easily accessible to the sightseeing place of the day.
Hotels generally provide comfortable guest rooms, restaurants, WiFi in common areas, and friendly hospitality. With sightseeing you can unwind after every day and have a serene environment before moving to the next location. The standards of the hotels are ensured to make the stay during the tour comfortable.
In case you would like to be even more comfortable, higher category accommodation can be usually organized prior to your departure. Premium hotels may be included in our Bhutan Cultural Tour, based on the availability and at an extra fee, but you can select the type of travel that fits best your preferences.
The Bhutan Cultural Tour meals consist of both traditional Bhutanese food and international food. Breakfast is typically served in your hotel, lunch and dinner in selected restaurants or hotels on the way. Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, and continental foods are usually offered in menus.
Tourists who want to taste local cuisines can enjoy local foods like Ema Datshi, red rice, buckwheat noodles, vegetable curries and seasonal soups made with fresh local products. There is a high availability of vegetarian meals, and there is the ability to meet most of the dietary needs with prior notice.
The food will be arranged during the Best of Bhutan Tour to accompany the day-to-day sightseeing programme, and you will have the chance to enjoy the local food without sacrificing the comfort and diversity that should be enjoyed when on an organised trip.
The Best of Bhutan Tour can be experienced all year round with each season presenting its own scenery and travel experience. Generally the most popular seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to favourable temperatures, colourful scenery and clear mountain views.
Summer brings regular rainfall, especially from June to August, making the valleys and forests lush and green, whereas winter brings crisp air, fewer visitors, and excellent visibility on clear days. The weather may not be the same across the destinations and it is advisable to always carry layers when traversing the Dochu La Pass or even visiting Gangtey.
The selection of the season depends on your preferences, as you may want to see the flowers of spring, autumn festivals, mountain scenery of winter, and less busy time of the year. The 7 Days Bhutan Tour is conducted all year round and visitors to Bhutan can visit the country in all seasons.
The majority of international travellers taking part in the 7 Days Bhutan Tour must obtain Bhutan visa prior to entering into the country. The visa is processed by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator once you have booked your tour. You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
The latest regulations issued by the Royal Government of Bhutan dictate that citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives have different entry procedures, depending on the most recent regulations. The requirements to enter might vary and it is always advisable to verify the most recent information prior to travelling.
The Mega Treks and Expedition will guide you through the visa application process by liaising the required documents with our local partners. Once your Best of Bhutan Tour has been confirmed, our team will guide you through each step to help ensure a smooth arrival in Bhutan.
The Best of Bhutan Tour follows the travel regulations established by the Royal Government of Bhutan. Most foreign travellers are required to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which helps protect the environment and supports Bhutan’s culture, education, healthcare, and sustainable tourism.
Before you arrive, your travel permits are organized so that you can explore places that are part of the itinerary, which includes Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, and Gangtey. Before travelling, you will be required to present a clear copy of your passport and the information needed before the permit process is done.
The Best of Bhutan Tour Package will also take care of the visa and permit process with the help of our local partners. Our staff will take care of the required preparations beforehand making your visit to Bhutan a pleasant experience and you can concentrate on the sightseeing instead of worrying about the travel arrangements.
The Best of Bhutan Tour Package includes transportation with a comfortable private vehicle that fits your group. All your airport transfers, sightseeing and travel within the country will be done based on the itinerary between the time you arrive at Paro International Airport and the time you depart.
The trip consists of picturesque tours of mountain valleys, forests, and classic villages during the travel between Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang and Gangtey. The road journeys are very pleasant due to the frequent sightseeing stops and short breaks, which give you time to enjoy the landscapes of Bhutan and do not hurry.
The local drivers are experienced and have been on the mountain roads in Bhutan and this will make the journey safe and comfortable during the tour. The 7 Days Bhutan Tour has been designed so as to balance both the driving time and sightseeing time so that you can have sufficient time to explore each destination at a leisurely pace.
Your Bhutan Cultural Tour is accompanied with a licensed English speaking Bhutanese guide who will accompany you throughout the trip. In addition to the history and meaning of monasteries, dzongs, museums, and cultural sites, your guide will be able to assist with the daily planning and guide you through the Bhutanese traditions and customs in a better way.
During the tour, your guide is in charge of the sightseeing schedules, responding to your queries and making sure that the programme of each day proceeds without any problems. Local knowledge can provide a great insight into the locations you are traveling in, and your traveling experience can be more meaningful than just going to the attractions all by yourself.
Mega Treks and Expedition collaborates with credible local partners who ensure good services until you leave. You may require travel advice, itinerary advice, or advice on real-life matters on your Best of Bhutan Tour, and our staff is always ready to assist.
The Best of Bhutan Tour is appropriate to the majority of travellers and takes place at comfortable elevations, and sightseeing is achieved at a leisurely pace. The only physically demanding activity is the hike to Taktsang Monastery, which can be completed according to your own fitness level. Those who do not want to hike all the way can stop at the viewpoint cafeteria.
Bhutan is known as a clean and a peaceful country with good healthcare facilities in large towns like Paro and Thimphu. We suggest that you should carry with you any personal medication that you might need throughout the tour, and travel insurance covering the costs of medical care abroad.
Keeping hydrated, putting on proper clothing according to the season and listening to your guide will help you have a pleasant holiday. On your Bhutan Cultural Tour, our guides and drivers put your safety first, and still make sure that the activities of each day are fun and well planned.
The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee (INR). There is a wide acceptance of cash in the country and there are also ATMs in the larger towns like Paro and Thimphu. International bank cards are however not always accepted at all the ATMs, therefore it is advisable to carry a little local currency.
The 7 Days Bhutan Tour includes the services listed in the cost includes section, but you should budget for personal purchases such as souvenirs, drinks, snacks, laundry, and tips. Smaller shops and local markets often prefer cash payments, particularly outside the main towns.
Most international credit cards are accepted by major hotels and some of the larger businesses, though extra bank fees might be charged. To have a mix of cash and card will give you the best options when you are on your Best of Bhutan Tour Package.
Internet access is available throughout most of the Best of Bhutan Tour, and most hotels offer free WiFi for guests. Mobile network coverage is mostly good in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang and Gangtey but the signal can be weak in certain mountainous regions.
Tourists who would like to be in touch can buy a local SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan by presenting a valid passport. Mobile information is appropriate in messaging, browsing and exchange of photos during the tour and it is simple to maintain contact with family and friends when travelling.
All the hotels in the itinerary will be equipped with electricity to enable you charge the mobile phones, cameras and other electronic gadgets every day. We suggest that you should bring a universal travel adapter and power bank, particularly when you intend to spend a lot of time using your devices during the Best of Bhutan Tour.
The Best of Bhutan Tour Package provides excellent opportunities to photograph monasteries, dzongs, mountain landscapes, valleys, traditional villages, and colourful prayer flags. In most cases, photography is allowed in outdoor places whereas it is usually forbidden in temples, monasteries, and shrine rooms. Rules will be explained by your guide prior to every visit.
During a trip to religious places, it is recommended to dress modestly in order to show respect to local traditions. Both men and women are advised to wear long trousers or skirts and cover their shoulders. Hats should be removed before entering temples, and visitors should follow any guidance provided by monks or local authorities.
Adherence to photography guidelines and local culture can save the cultural heritage of Bhutan and give a positive experience to visitors and the local people. By adhering to these easy rules, you will be able to enjoy your Bhutan Cultural Tour and at the same time be respectful towards the practices of the country.
Most of the travellers decide to continue their Bhutan Cultural Tour once this itinerary is over. The most common places of interest are Bumthang, Haa Valley, Trongsa, and eastern Bhutan that provides a different outlook to the culture, history, and natural beauty of the country. The other regions are perfect for the traveller who wants to explore other parts of Bhutan other than the west.
Should you be interested in nature, cultural festivals or quiet mountainous scenery, our team can suggest an extension that suits your interests and time to travel. Additional sightseeing or short hikes can also be added based on your interests.
Mega Treks and Expedition is happy to customise your Best of Bhutan Tour with extra nights, new destinations, or private sightseeing before or after the main itinerary. We will assist in developing a travel plan that fits your time, and maximizes your stay in Bhutan.
The services in the cost includes section are included in the Best of Bhutan Tour, though you need to estimate personal expenses in the course of the holiday. These can be beverages, snacks, laundry, souvenirs, personal shopping, optional activities and tips to your guide and driver in case you are pleased with their service.
Whereas most hotels and larger stores accept international credit cards, smaller enterprises and smaller markets tend to accept cash payments. It is also good to carry with you some Bhutanese Ngultrum when on the tour in order to buy any little things or refreshments when sightseeing.
By planning a small personal budget prior to your trip, you will have a chance to travel without any worries about any unexpected expenses. The Best of Bhutan Tour package includes the key travel services, and additional expenses will be determined by your interests and travel style.
The 7 Days Bhutan Tour involves respect of local customs. You will see monasteries, temples, dzongs and villages during your trip where traditional values remain an important part of daily life. Wearing simple clothes, talking in low tones, and obeying your guide are easy steps to take to demonstrate respect when visiting.
When entering religious sites, hats should be removed, and visitors should avoid touching sacred objects unless invited to do so. It is also a custom to walk clockwise around the chortens, prayer wheels and other Buddhist monuments. It is always welcome to ask the monks or the locals before taking their pictures.
Adhering to the local traditions will assist you in understanding the Bhutanese culture better and establish a positive contact with the locals. It is also through respectful behaviour that everyone in your group can experience a valuable and memorable time travelling.
In case this is your first time in Bhutan, it will be worthwhile to prepare a bit before your trip to the country so that you can enjoy the Best of Bhutan Tour even further. The use of comfortable walking shoes, layered clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle are handy during the trip. The weather may vary among mountain passes and valleys, thus it is advisable to bring a light jacket all year round.
Although English is commonly used by guides and most hotels, knowing some basic Bhutanese greetings can make your communication with local people even more pleasant. Adhering to the local traditions, dressing properly when visiting monasteries, and listening to your guide will make you appreciate the traditions and religious background of Bhutan even more.
Instead of rushing to different destinations, spend time appreciating the serene environment, historical buildings, and scenic mountain ranges. An open mind and flexible attitude will enable you to maximize your Best of Bhutan Tour and have unforgettable memories of your stay in the Himalayas.
Seven days itinerary is sufficient to cover the key cultural sites in Bhutan, such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, and Gangtey. It provides a moderate speed without rushing.
No. The hike to Taktsang Monastery is part of the itinerary, although you can walk to the viewpoint cafeteria and not go all the way up.
Lawa La Pass at some 3,350 metres is the highest point of the tour. The climb up to Taktsang Monastery is approximately 3, 120 metres.
Black necked cranes tend to fly to Gangtey Valley during late October to early March. The Black Necked Crane Information Centre and the beautiful valley can still be experienced outside this season.
Yes. Dochu La Pass is open all the year round, although, in a few instances, snowfall during winter or adverse weather may affect the conditions of the road.
Yes. You have included entry fees of the sightseeing places in the itinerary as part of your tour package unless otherwise.
Yes. The private departures can be typically tailored to your interests, travel dates, and time at your disposal. Other activities or trips can also be organized.
Yes. The tour is suitable for senior travellers who are comfortable with light walking. The Tiger Nest hiking can be done at your own pace or can be reduced to a shorter duration.
Yes. Families that have children visit Bhutan on a regular basis. Parents are advised to take the fitness of the child into consideration in case they intend to complete the hike to Taktsang Monastery.
You can find takins at the wildlife preserve depending on the season and place, black necked cranes in Gangtey Valley in winter, and other Himalayan birds along the way.
Yes. The majority of restaurants and hotels have vegetarian dishes, and vegan food can be usually ordered in advance.
Yes. Thimphu and Paro have good handicraft shops where they sell textiles, wood carvings, handmade paper products, Thangka paintings, jewellery and locally made souvenirs.
Yes. There are alcoholic beverages in hotels, restaurants and licensed shops. Travellers can also have local drinks to taste Bhutanese flavours.
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a light jacket, personal medication, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for a comfortable trip.
Tipping is not mandatory, however, it is welcome should you be pleased with the services of your guide and driver when you are on the tour.
Majority of hotels and larger companies will take credit cards, but smaller shops and local markets are more likely to take cash.
The capital of Bhutan and administrative centre is Thimphu, and Punakha is the place with the historic dzong, warmer climate, fertile valleys, and significant importance to the Bhutanese history.
Yes. Most travellers proceed to Bumthang, Haa Valley, Trongsa or eastern Bhutan. Mega Treks and Expedition can arrange a customised extension to suit your travel plans.
Yes. The Best of Bhutan Tour Package may be organized as an individual or couple tour, family tours, and group tours with flexible tour dates.
To ensure that your preferred travel date is attained, we suggest that you book your Best of Bhutan Tour several weeks before your preferred travel date. Early reservation will mean that you have enough time to do your visa preparations, secure your accommodation and get all the travel services done before you arrive in Bhutan.
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