Best of Bhutan (10 days)

Thimphu – Punakha – Phobjikha Valley – Paro

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a Himalayan kingdom celebrated for its dramatic mountain scenery, distinctive Buddhist culture and well-preserved traditions. This tour takes you through its beautiful valleys, historic dzongs and traditional villages, culminating in a visit to the spectacular Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Important Features

• Expert local guide
• Small group size – maximum 10
• Luxury accommodations
• All meals included
• Unlimited supply of bottled water during group activities
• Free Wi-Fi in all hotels

Tour Itinerary

Meal Code: B = Breakfast / L = Lunch / D = Dinner

Day 1: Departing for Bhutan
Depart for Bhutan from a city of your choice. As there are no direct flights from North America, travellers must connect through an Asian gateway such as Bangkok, New Delhi, Kathmandu or Singapore. Flight arrangements will depend on your departure city and the available connections.

Day 2: Arrival in Thimphu (D)
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your guide and driver for the scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1½ hours. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 3: Thimphu (B/L/D)
We begin our sightseeing at the National Memorial Chorten, built in honour of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. We then visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a historic Buddhist temple overlooking Thimphu Valley.

After lunch, we explore Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress and monastery that houses the king’s throne room and several government offices.

Day 4: Thimphu (B/L/D)
We begin the day at a local market, followed by a visit to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the School of Arts and Crafts, where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts.

In the afternoon, we visit the National Library and Bhutan Post Office, where you can order personalized postage stamps featuring your own photograph.

Day 5: Thimphu – Punakha (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital, crossing Dochula Pass (3,100 metres), where clear weather offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

Before reaching our hotel, we take a scenic walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley, and traditionally associated with fertility blessings.

Day 6: Punakha (B/L/D)
We begin the day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive fortresses. Built in 1637 at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, it is renowned for its traditional Bhutanese architecture and historical significance.

Afterwards, we enjoy a scenic hike to viewpoints overlooking the dzong and the surrounding valley.

Day 7: Punakha – Phobjikha Valley (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we drive approximately two hours to Phobjikha Valley, a beautiful glacial valley known for its wintering population of vulnerable black-necked cranes.

After lunch at a local farmhouse, we enjoy a scenic 2½-hour hike through the valley to Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important Buddhist monasteries. In the evening, we attend a monk-led meditation session, subject to availability.

Day 8: Phobjikha Valley – Paro (B/L/D)
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Phobjikha Valley, with free time to explore the peaceful surroundings.

After lunch, we depart for Paro, retracing our route through Bhutan’s mountainous countryside. The scenic drive takes approximately five hours.

Day 9: Paro (B/L/D)
This morning, we hike to Paro Taktsang, better known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous landmark. Perched dramatically on a cliff approximately 900 metres above Paro Valley, the monastery is one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites. The round-trip hike takes approximately 4–6 hours.

In the afternoon, we visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in a historic watchtower overlooking Paro Valley, followed by Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress and monastery that also serves as the district’s administrative centre.

Day 10: Paro – Return Home (B)
The tour ends this morning. After breakfast, your guide and driver will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. The private airport transfer is included in the tour price.

Dates & Prices

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. International airfare is not included.

* Land tour price does not include international air. Please contact us for a fare quote.

Bhutan Tour: Questions & Answers

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes. Most foreign visitors, including Canadian, American, British and Australian passport holders, require a visa. Laurus Travel will assist with the application process. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.

Are any vaccinations required?

No vaccinations are generally required for travellers arriving from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom or Australia. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Consult your healthcare provider for advice on recommended vaccinations.

Will I experience altitude sickness?

Most of the tour takes place at elevations between 2,000 and 3,000 metres. Dochula Pass reaches approximately 3,100 metres. Some travellers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, avoid overexertion and consult your doctor if you have concerns.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This is an active tour involving walking on uneven ground, stairs and hiking at high elevations. The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is particularly demanding, taking approximately four to six hours round trip. Travellers who prefer not to undertake the full hike may enjoy the surrounding scenery at a more leisurely pace.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) generally offer pleasant temperatures and good conditions for sightseeing. Winter is colder, especially at higher elevations, while summer brings monsoon rains.

What currency is used in Bhutan?

The Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN) is the local currency. Indian rupees are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger establishments, but carrying local cash is advisable for small purchases.

Is travel insurance required?

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation and trip cancellation. Travellers should ensure their policies cover hiking at the elevations included in this itinerary.