Bhutan TOUR

Fly into Bhutan Tour

7 Nights | 8 Days

Destination:

Overview

Discover the spiritual heart and natural beauty of Bhutan on this 8-day journey through its western and central regions. Experience the vibrant capital of Thimphu, the serene Gangtey and Phobjikha valleys, the historic Punakha Dzong, and the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. This itinerary blends scenic drives, cultural encounters, and spiritual experiences for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Itinerary

DAY 1 Paro to Thimphu: Scenic Drive and First Impressions

Arrive at Paro Airport and complete visa/permit formalities. Meet your Bhutanese representative and drive to Thimphu, the capital city. En route, stop at Tamchog Lhakhang (Iron Bridge) and take a photo break at Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro (Pa Chu) and Thimphu (Wang Chu) rivers. Upon arrival in Thimphu (2,320 m / 7,656 ft), check in at your hotel and relax, enjoying the peaceful Himalayan surroundings.

DAY 2 Thimphu: Explore the Capital and Cultural Highlights

After breakfast, embark on a full day of sightseeing in Thimphu. Start with the Sangaygang Viewpoint (BBS Tower) at 2,865 m / 9,397 ft for panoramic views of the city. Visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodong), the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan, and the Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Arts & Crafts School). Explore the Textiles Museum, local handicraft shops, Zangthopelri Lhakhang, Simply Bhutan cultural center, and the Motithang Takin Preservation Centre, home to Bhutan’s national animal. Return to your hotel for the night.

DAY 3 Thimphu to Gangtey/Phobjikha: Scenic Highlands & Crane Valley

After breakfast, depart Thimphu for Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley, a drive of approximately 135 km that takes 5–5½ hours. Traverse the Dochu La Pass (3,080 m / 10,102 ft), offering panoramic views of the Bhutanese mountains. Continue to Gangtey, a beautiful valley that becomes the winter home of Black-necked Cranes. Visit the Gangtey Goempa (Monastery) and settle into your hotel in the tranquil valley (3,000 m / 9,845 ft).

DAY 4 Gangtey/Phobjikha: Local Exploration

Spend the day exploring Gangtey and Phobjikha. Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre and learn about conservation efforts for these endangered birds.
Interact with monks and local villagers near Gangtey Goempa, enjoying the peaceful
alpine surroundings and traditional village life.

DAY 5 Gangtey to Punakha/Wangdi: River Valleys & Historic Dzongs

After breakfast, depart Gangtey for Punakha/Wangdi. Enjoy the scenic drive through fertile valleys and terraced farmland, descending to 1,273 m / 4,177 ft. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax amidst the gentle flow of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

DAY 6 Punakha: Dzongs, Suspension Bridge & Chimi Lhakhang

Explore Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness,” built in the 17th century. Walk across the suspension bridge, offering spectacular views of the river confluence. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple, and learn about local traditions. Later, drive to Paro (2,200 m / 7,218 ft, approx. 148 km / 4–5 hours) and check in at your hotel.

DAY 7 Paro: Sacred Sites & Tiger’s Nest Hike

Option 1: Full-Day Sightseeing – Explore Dungtse Lhakhang, take in panoramic views from the Bird Eye Viewpoint, visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), Rinpung Dzong, and Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

Option 2: Hike to Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) – Begin early for
a challenging uphill hike through pine forests to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, taking 2½–3 hours one way. Guests preferring a shorter hike can stop at the midway cafeteria. Return to the base for transfer back to your hotel.

DAY 8 Departure from Paro

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Paro Airport (PBH) for your onward journey.