WESTERN BHUTAN EXPLORER

7 NIGHTS | FROM US$2,745* | DEPARTS: PARO, BHUTAN

Explore the best of Western Bhutan on this thoughtfully planned 6-night tour that includes Paro, Thimphu, Gangtay Monastery in the stunning Phobjikha Valley, Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang the Fertility Temple. Finish this tour in Paro with a walk up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This tour is perfect for anyone short on time that still wants to see as much as possible of Bhutan.

* Price based on twin-share accommodation. Single-room supplement available for US$45 per night, subject to availability.
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here.
Best time for this tour: March to May and October to December
Minimum group size: 1 (subject to surcharges)

TRIP INCLUSIONS

• Transport by private vehicle

• All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee

• 7 nights handpicked hotel accommodation

• All entrance fees at monasteries and museums

• Bhutan daily fee including visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes

• English-speaking Bhutanese guide

trip Itinerary

DAY 1

Thimphu: Beginning in the beautiful Paro Valley, you will be met at Paro International Airport by your guide. Explore the formidable dzong (fortress) of Paro, the national museum as well as the famous wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge. In the afternoon, drive to Bhutan’s quirky little capital of Thimphu, where you will visit Tashi Chho Dzong, a 17th century fortress which has been the seat of government since 1952.
Driving time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 2

Punakha: Drive to the Dochula Pass before descending to the lush Punakha Valley below. Visit Chimi Lhakhang the Fertility Temple, and the beautiful Punakha Dzong.
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 3

Phobjikha: Leaving Punakha, the road then climbs before turning off to Phobjikha via the Lawa la pass (3,250m). The road descends to a stunning and vast u-shaped valley home during the winter months to black necked cranes. Visit the impressive Gangtay Monastery dating from the early 17th century, one of the two main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in Bhutan. Stroll through Gangtay village before walking the nature trail route through blue pines and stunning scenery.
Driving time:  5 hours
Overnight: Phobjikha
Altitude: 3,000 m

DAY 4

Thimphu: Return over the Lawala Pass and descend towards the lush valley below before climbing back to the Dochula Pass. From here it is a short distance to Thimphu.
Driving time: 3 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 5

Haa: Drive to the picturesque Haa valley and visit the black and white temples. Check into your charming heritage lodge, renowned for its good food and warm hospitality.
Driving time: 4 hours
Overnight: Haa
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 6

Paro: Enjoy a short walk before returning to Paro and visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan.
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 7

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. In the afternoon, explore Paro town and have a go at archery with your guide.
Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 8

Depart

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