Bhutan Cultural Tour

Day 01: Arrival in Paro and Drive to Thimphu

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, our guide will warmly welcome you. You’ll then be taken to a nearby hotel for refreshments. If time permits and you arrive early, we will visit Paro Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, and Paro Dzong, which serves both administrative and monastic purposes.

In the evening, we will drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Thimphu.  

Day 02: Sightseeing in Thimphu

After breakfast, our first stop will be the Memorial Chorten, built by Her Majesty Ashi Phuntsho Choden in memory of her late son, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, the third king of Bhutan and the father of modern Bhutan.

We’ll then visit the Kuenselphodrang, where you can marvel at the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan, standing 169 feet tall. Other highlights include the Folk and Textile Heritage Museums, which showcase Bhutan’s rich traditions, the National Library, the Indigenous Hospital, the Painting School (where young monks learn the art of Buddhist Thangka painting), and the Handicraft Emporium.

Later, we’ll visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a revered temple, and then drive to Sangaygang, offering panoramic views of Thimphu town. On the way, we’ll stop at a mini zoo to see Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. We’ll end the day with a visit to Trashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress that houses government offices, the King’s throne, and serves as the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot.

Dinner and overnight stay in Thimphu.

Day 03: Drive from Thimphu to Punakha                                                  

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a 4-hour scenic drive to Punakha. En route, we’ll stop at Dochula Pass (3,150m), where 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens stand majestically. Enjoy tea and snacks while taking in the stunning views of the Himalayas.

We’ll then descend through temperate forests into the subtropical regions of Punakha. Along the way, we’ll visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Temple of Fertility,” built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in the 15th century. Known as the “Divine Madman,” he is celebrated for his unorthodox teachings and philosophies.

Upon arrival in Punakha, we’ll visit Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River). This fortress serves as the winter residence of the Chief Abbot and the administrative center of Punakha District.

Overnight stay in Punakha.

Day 04: Drive form Punakha to Haa      

After breakfast, we’ll retrace our route back to Thimphu for lunch before continuing to Haa. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening stroll through the tranquil Haa Valley.

Overnight stay in Haa.

Day 05: Explore Haa and Drive to Paro    

After breakfast, we’ll visit Lhakhang Karpo, the “Temple of the White Dove,” believed to have been built in the 8th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. According to legend, the valley's name, Haa, meaning “sudden,” originates from the belief that local nomads built the temples in a single day.

We’ll also explore Haa Dzong, situated in the heart of the valley, before departing for Paro. The drive from Haa to Paro takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including Chele La Pass (3,900m), one of Bhutan’s highest road passes. From here, you can hike for about 45 minutes to Kila Goemba, a serene nunnery established as a meditation site in the 9th century.

Driving down into Paro Valley, the scenery transitions from alpine pastures to lush forests of blue pine, cypress, and rhododendron. Spend the evening strolling through Paro town for shopping.

Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 06: Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

After an early breakfast, we’ll hike to Paro Taktsang, famously known as the "Tiger’s Nest." Perched on a cliff, this monastery was built in 1692 around the cave where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to this location on the back of a tigress to subdue a demon. The monastery is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan and a spiritual haven.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Drukgyel Dzong, a fortress built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders, and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan.

Spend the evening exploring Paro town.

Overnight stay in Paro.

Day 07: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, we’ll drive you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Safe travels!

Price Includes:

1. Accommodation in 3-star or 4-star hotels (as per the itinerary).
2. All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner).
3. Services of a licensed Bhutanese tour guide throughout your stay.
4. All internal transportation (excluding domestic flights).
5. All internal taxes and charges.
6. Sustainable Tourism Royalty of $65 per person per night, which contributes to free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development.
7. Mineral water during sightseeing activities.

Price Excludes:

1. International airfare to and from Bhutan.
2. Personal expenses.
3. Travel insurance.
4. Beverages during meals.
5. Tips for the guide and driver.