Bhutan Experience Tour

5.0/5 from 622 reviews
  • Destination
    Bhutan
  • Duration
    10 Days
  • Trip Difficulty
    Easy
  • Activities
    Cultural Tours
  • Accommodation
    3-Star Hotel
  • Meals
    B.L.D
  • Group Size
    Min. 1 Pax
  • Best Time
    Jan - May and Sept - Dec

Experience the major cultural highlights of Bhutan with the Bhutan Experience Tour. An inspiring tour of ten days, Bhutan Experience Tour takes you to all the cultural hubs of this mystical kingdom.

Discover ancient lakhangs, impressive dzongs, picturesque villages, and secluded monasteries while exploring Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Bumthang.  Drive past high mountain passes and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan mountains. Our knowledgeable Bhutanese guide will take you to the sites and introduce you to the rich cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people.

Bhutan Experience Tour starts with a drive from Paro to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.  Clean and tranquil with traditional homes and buildings, Thimphu is one of the most peaceful and pollution-free capitals in the world.

Walk around the beautiful King's Memorial Chorten, with the locals. The chorten is a white religious structure built in memory of the third king of Bhutan.  Your visit to the  Nunnery Temple will acquaint you with the austere lifestyle of the anis or Buddhist nuns.

Explore the Tashichhodzong, a magnificent castle that houses the throne room of the Bhutanese king.  Visiting the Folk Heritage Museum, Painting School, Textile Museum, and the local market will give you an insight into the unique art and culture of the Bhutanese. Your Thimphu tour ends with a drive to the hilltop shrine of  Buddha Dordenma at Kuenselphodrang.

A fascinating drive through the green hills will bring you to Punakha, Bhutan's ancient capital. Located at the confluence of the Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers, Punakha Dzong will dazzle you with its outstanding beauty and architecture. The massive fortress now houses government offices, a monastery, and chapels with Buddhist relics and scroll paintings.

You will also visit the impressive Druk Wangyal Monastery, and Chimi Lakhang, or the Fertility Temple. Stroll around a traditional village walk and enjoy lunch at a local farmhouse. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten before heading to Bumthang, the religious and cultural center of Bhutan.

In Bumthang, we will take you to Jambay Lakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan built by the Tibetan king Songsten Gampo. Another ancient Buddhist shrine in your Bumthang tour itinerary is the Kurjey Lakhang, a meditation site of Padmasambhava or the Second Buddha.  A delightful walk to the Thangbi Valley will lead you to Thangbi Lakhang, an important Buddhist shrine.  Before bidding goodbye to Bumthang you explore the sacred Tamshing Lakhang, a treasure trove of Buddhist murals and paintings, and the lively local market.

Paro is the last city you will tour. Follow your guide to the stately Paro or Rinpung Dzong and visit Kichu Lakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan. Wrap up your memorable tour with a hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger's Nest. Built on the face of a rocky cliff, Tiger's Nest is a sacred and popular site among tourists as well as locals. During the hike, one can enjoy panoramic views of Paro Valley and the surrounding mountains.

While spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for Bhutan Experience Tour, one can do this trip any time of the year. You will travel between cities in a private vehicle driven by an experienced driver. People of all fitness levels and age groups can do this tip. You can skip the longer hikes if you find them taxing.

Bhutan Experience Tour takes you to all the major cultural and historical sites in Bhutan. Nepal Hiking Team highly recommends this trip to those who are interested in Himalayan Buddhist culture and history.  Come and join us on this fascinating tour of the mystical Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Paro-Thimphu, 54 Km, 1 hour

The flight to Paro crosses the Himalayan Mountains, affording spectacular views of the awesome peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. On arrival you will be greeted by the guide and escort you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Check into hotel on arrival. In the evening, you can stroll through Thimphu city and absorb the lifestyle of the people. Overnight stay at the hotel lunch and dinner included.

Day 02: Thimphu

After breakfast you will visit the King's Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), nunnery temple, the Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as Painting School), the National Library (which houses ancient manuscripts), the Folk heritage Museum, which depicts the life of a rural Bhutanese and the Textile museum which is a repository of archaic Bhutanese textiles. After a relaxing lunch, you will visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, a traditional paper factory, the majestic Tashichhodzong and the giant Buddha statue on a hill overlooking Thimphu which is reputed to be the largest Buddha Shakymuni in the world. In the evening, you can visit some handicraft shops. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 03: Thimphu-Punakha, 70 Km, 3 hours

After breakfast, you will enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha with stop for tea at Dochu La Pass (3,150 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. Here, you can visit the new Druk Wangyal Monastery, which is the only of its kind in the country with elaborate paintings depicting the lineage of the present monarchy and their visionary works. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. After lunch at Lobesa, you will hike through rice paddies up to the Chimi Lhakhang Temple. This temple is dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century known as Drukpa Kuenley, or the "Divine Madman," who is believed to bless women who seek fertility. After this, continue drive to Punakha. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Village tour in Punakha

After breakfast, you will go for village hike in Punakha. You will cross a suspension bridge and walk on a leveled trail along the Mo Chu River. After walking for some time, you will come to a local village. You can spend some time visiting farm houses and meeting families. Your host will be happy to offer you a cup of butter tea. You can enjoy your picnic lunch at the side of the river bank. After lunch, you can hike further to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, a delightful 3-story Chorten that looks down on the upper Punakha Valley. The views of the valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains are stunning. You can linger here for some times relaxing and simply appreciating the harmonious beauty of the location. Later in the evening, you will hike back till road point where your car will be waiting to transfer you to hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 05: Punakha-Bumthang, 197 Km, 6-7 hours

After breakfast you will drive to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of the country. The route is along a spectacular winding road, crossing 3,300-meter-high Pele La pass, and at this time of the year it's possible to see yaks. You will stop in Trongsa for lunch. After lunch you'll visit Trongsa Dzong, the masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Then you'll proceed to Bumthang with lush valleys and hilly forests. Along the way you will stop at a yathra (textile weaving) factory, where the yathras are designed with patterns unique to Bumthang, and you can even watch some of the weavers at their looms. Check into hotel on arrival. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 06: Bumthang

Today's sightseeing in Bumthang includes Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the valley; Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, dating from the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan; and Kurjey Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places, because Guru Rinpoche, a great 8th century spiritual master left his body imprint on the cave when he was meditating. From here you will hike through unpaved road to Thangbi valley crossing suspension bridge to visit the Thangbi Lhakhang built in 14th century. After lunch, you will also have a chance to tour Tamshing Lhakhang, a treasure house of interesting religious Buddhist paintings. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 07: Bumthang-Punakha, 214 Km, 6-7 hours

You'll begin the day at the Bumthang market, and then drive to Punakha. Stop at Chendebji Chorten for your lunch. Chendebji Chorten was built in 18th century by a lama named Shida in a Nepalese style with eyes painted at four cardinal points. After long exhilarating drive passing through two spectacular high passes, you will arrive Punakha. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 08: Punakha-Paro, 130 Km, 4 hours

In the morning, visit the Punakha Dzong, which is stunningly situated in between the male and female rivers like an anchored ship. You will return to Paro via Dochula pass. You will stop in Thimphu for lunch. After lunch, continue drive to Paro. After arrival in Paro, you can visit the Rinpung Dzong meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels". It has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the courtyard of the Rinpung Dzong are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. You will walk downhill till the road point crossing the wooden bridge. Your vehicle will be waiting here to take you to the Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest and most sacred temple in the country. Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 09: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

After breakfast you will hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan's most famous monastery situated at 3180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up on the mountain. The monastery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. Explore the monastery, and if you wish, you can sit for a short meditation before you hike down to the valley floor. This is fantastic conclusion to your stay in Bhutan! Overnight stay at the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 10: Depart Paro

After breakfast, you will drive to airport for departure. Our representative will bid farewell.

Cost Includes

  • All ground transportation by private vehicle, including airport transfers
  • Assistance in acquiring a Bhutan visa and payment of visa fee
  • Accommodation at a Bhutanese Government-approved 3-star category hotel. One room will be provided for two travelers.
  • Full board meals (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the tour
  • Inclusion of the Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF Fees) of USD 100 per night.
  • Accompaniment by a highly experienced local tour guide during all tours
  • Covering entrance fees for all scheduled tours
  • Inclusive of all applicable government taxes and tourist service charges
  • Inclusion of our office expenses and service charge

Cost Excludes

  • Meals not specified in the 'Meal Inclusions' in the itinerary.”
  • Airfare to/from Paro
  • Personal shopping, internet/Phone bills, and laundry
  • Pony service and porters
  • Tips for tour guide and driver 

Travellers‘ Reviews

Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.

  • Amazing Manaslu and Bhutan Adventure

    This was our 2nd tour with NHT. In short: we can confidently recommend "the Team."

    We were 6 friends eager to return to Nepal for trekking while also exploring Bhutan. The tour was excellently organized, incorporating our ideas and special requests, whether cultural interests, health needs, specific visits, or dietary preferences. The close communication with Ganga (CEO) and his brother ensured quick email responses. Just great service from start to finish.

    The entire Manaslu trekking crew, including guides and porters, was outstanding! We had so much fun together and always felt secure. Our lead guide, Ram, was exceptional. Always a step ahead yet adaptable to the situation, our humor, and even Danish sarcasm :-) . We know NHT has other guides of his level, but Ram truly made a difference for us.

    Bhutan and Manaslu were two of the most incredible experiences we've ever had! Both are extraordinary yet so distinct – I won’t even try to describe them here. Instead, Nepal Hiking Teams' website was great for inspiration and planning (or just send them an email).

    For context, we opted for the Manaslu circuit trek to enjoy one of Nepal's most breathtaking treks with a rich cultural touch, while steering clear of the busy Everest trails. We did encounter some tourists, but there was plenty of space. And the natural beauty? Simply spectacular.

    Soren T
    - Excellent

    Mr. Soren T

    17th Nov 2024
  • Exciting and most memorable experience

    Experience of a lifetime! Leading up to the trip, I felt some excitement and uncertainty because I was traveling from New Jersey to Nepal, so it was a trip to the other side of the world. Also knowing we were going to trek to the highest region in the world.

    Once we arrived in Kathmandu, we met up with our guide (Bhim). After a few minutes of talking with him, I felt a sense of calm and my excitement of joy grew from there. And I was right he and his team made sure we had the best experience possible.

    The full trek going and coming was incredible. Our guide, Bhim, made sure we had the best experience. Can’t say enough of how wonderful he and his team made this one for the books!

    I highly recommend booking with this company and Bhim! Namaste!

    O
    - Excellent

    Mr. Oscar A

    12th Nov 2024
  • Solo Traveler

    I just completed trekking in Nepal together with another solo traveler. The service of Nepal Hiking Team was exemplary from the start till the end. Nothing beats word-of-mouth good reviews. 

    Mr. Ganga has been very responsive to queries from Day 1 and was physically present even on the last day to officially close the loop for the package tour.

    Our guide Bibek was very patient and sincere as he led us through the trek. He resolved issues with his heart and people skills and gave assurance whenever plans suddenly changed.

    He ensured things were changed for the better. Our porter, Rajendran, was also good and always arrived ahead of time to ensure our rooms were confirmed.

    - Guided by Bibek Dhamala

    N
    - Excellent

    Ms. Norleen A

    21st Oct 2024
  • Amazing experience thanks to our 5-star guide/porter team

    We had the best time in Nepal. The beautiful views and warm hospitality of the Nepali people are truly unparalleled.

    Instrumental to our amazing experience were our guide, Netra, and porter, Vasu.

    We were super well taken care of. Netra was quick to assess our physical abilities and was able to effectively set the pace for our hikes. He had very good knowledge of the route and terrain. Importantly, this was our first time attempting a hike at a high altitude, so he took extra care to check on us regularly.

    On a personal note, proper gear, including a powerful down jacket for -20 degrees Celsius and a proper hiking backpack, is super essential.

    Overall, I would highly recommend the Nepal Hiking Team and Netra/Vasu for your Nepal adventure!

    G
    - Excellent

    Ms. Gen T

    14th Oct 2024
  • Fabulous Trip – Excited for Many More with NHT

    We were a group of 17 people from California who had been preparing for a year for this trip. Nepal Hiking Team was referred to us by one of my friends. After talking to & interviewing several companies, NHT seemed very responsive, cost-effective & experienced. After the trip, they proved us nothing less.

    Their guides are top-of-the-line, very kind, and helpful. They made sure we all were prepared for the next day, set our expectations rights, & guided us through managing altitude sickness.

    We all made it to Nepal and came back happy and healthy.

    We all thank NHT for making our dream come true, and looking forward to many more with them.

    S
    - Excellent

    Ms. Shaili A

    8th Oct 2024
US$ 3130Per Person
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