BHUTAN HIGHLIGHTS
5 NIGHTS | FROM US$2,195* | DEPARTS: PARO, BHUTAN
Get a fascinating glimpse into the ancient culture of Bhutan on this short Bhutan Highlights itinerary. Visit the quaint capital city, Thimphu, the historic Punakha Dzong and hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Explore the beautiful Paro Valley, with its magnificent Dzong, and enjoy the rich and fascinating traditional culture of the Bhutanese people. Experience the highlights of this beautiful and unique country in a short but comprehensive trip, ideal for travellers who are short on travel time but who want the best out of their Bhutan vacation.
* Price based on twin-share accommodation. Single-room supplement available for US$45 per night, subject to availability. Min group size: 1 (subject to surcharges).
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here
Best time of year for this tour: March-May & October to December
“Totally loved Bhutan... The people were very nice everywhere we went. Our guide became part of our group right away and had a great sense of humour, and I was very impressed by the care he took with everything.”
Trip Inclusions
Transport by private vehicle
All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee
5 nights handpicked hotel accommodation
All entrance fees at monasteries and museums
Bhutan daily fee including visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes
English, French or German-speaking Bhutanese guide
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International airfare to Bhutan. (This can be arranged for you. Please contact us for details)
Stopover hotel if needed
Comprehensive travel insurance.
Additional activities (e.g. massage, hot stone bath)
Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, specialty coffee, and cakes
Laundry
Tips for guide and driver
trip ITINERARY
DAY 1
Paro: Your journey begins in the beautiful Paro Valley where you will be met at Paro International Airport by your guide and driver. Explore the charming town centre and stroll across the picturesque wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge up to the magnificent Rinpung Dzong above. Visit the National Museum before continuing to the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Continue to your hotel to relax.
Driving time: 30 minutes
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m
DAY 2
Punakha: After breakfast, drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3,140m) offering stunning panoramic mountain views. Visit Chimi Lhakhang the Fertility Temple and the beautiful Punakha Dzong.
Driving time: 3.5 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m
DAY 3
Thimphu: Return over the Dochula Pass to Thimphu and explore this quirky little capital of Bhutan. Visit the National Textile Museum, the Great Buddha Dordenma Statue and attend the flag lowering ceremony at Trashi Chho Dzong, the seat of government.
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m
DAY 4
Paro: Explore Thimphu, and visit the School of 13 Arts and Crafts and the Motithang Takin Preserve. Later, continue to Paro for the night.
Driving time: 1.5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m
DAY 5
Paro: Walk to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. An unforgettable hike to the Taktshang Gomba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery). The walk through blue pines, passing water-powered prayer wheels, leads you to the holy site. This ancient monastery clings miraculously to a sheer cliff above the valley floor. The views are magnificent over the Paro Valley.
Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m
DAY 6
Depart Paro
Other trips you may be interested in
Spirit of Bhutan
Western Bhutan Walking Holiday
Paro Festival Journey, Bhutan