Cultural Tours
Classic Bhutan Cultural Journey
Eight days through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and the glacial valley of Phobjikha, balancing culture, nature and gentle hike...
FromUS$ 2,450
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5 Days / 4 Nights
Bhutan Highlights
Paro, Thimphu & Punakha in five unhurried days
5 days
Easy
Max 3,120 m (Taktsang)
Paro · Thimphu · Punakha
Overview
Paro, Thimphu & Punakha in five unhurried days
Short on time but want to see the very best of Bhutan? This classic western loop covers the essentials at a gentle pace, with time for the markets of Thimphu, the 108 chortens of Dochula Pass, the majestic Punakha Dzong and the unforgettable climb to Taktsang Monastery.
Ideal for first-time visitors and for combining with a trip to Nepal or India.
Duration5 Days / 4 Nights
Best seasonYear-round
GroupPrivate: 1–12 guests
Start / EndParo → Paro
Journey highlights
- Hike to the Tiger’s Nest
- Punakha Dzong at the river confluence
- 108 chortens at Dochula Pass
- Buddha Dordenma & Memorial Chorten
- Farmhouse dinner in Paro
Day by day
Itinerary
Day1
Arrive Paro – Drive to Thimphu
Your flight into Paro offers spectacular views of the Himalaya. Your guide greets you in traditional dress and drives you to Thimphu (1 hr), stopping at Tachog Lhakhang’s iron chain bridge. Evening stroll around the National Memorial Chorten.
Day2
Thimphu sightseeing
Visit Buddha Dordenma, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, the Royal Takin Preserve and the Folk Heritage Museum. Watch archers at Changlimithang ground and end the day at Tashichho Dzong for the evening flag-lowering ceremony.
Day3
Thimphu – Dochula – Punakha
Cross Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with its 108 chortens and Himalayan panorama. Descend to Punakha for a walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, then explore Punakha Dzong and cross the suspension bridge.
Day4
Punakha – Paro
Morning hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, then drive back to Paro. Visit Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum, and enjoy a traditional dinner and optional hot-stone bath in a farmhouse.
Day5
Hike to Tiger’s Nest – Depart
Early start for the hike to Taktsang Monastery (4–5 hrs round trip) for an unforgettable final morning, followed by transfer to Paro airport for your onward flight. (Most guests add a night here and fly out on Day 6.)
B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner. Itineraries may be adjusted for weather, festival dates and road conditions.
Good to know
What’s included
Included
- Bhutan visa processing (US$40 visa fee included)
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per night
- Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide throughout
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver
- 3-star government-certified hotels on twin-sharing basis
- All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner), tea & bottled water
- Entrance fees to monuments and museums on the itinerary
- Airport transfers in Paro
Not included
- International flights to and from Paro (we can book Drukair / Bhutan Airlines)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Single-room supplement
- 4- and 5-star hotel upgrades (available on request)
- Alcoholic drinks, laundry, phone calls & personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
Gallery
Moments from the journey
Reviews
What travellers say
“Short but perfectly paced. Even with only five days we never felt rushed, and the Tiger’s Nest hike was the highlight of my year.”
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