Overview
Explore the Heart and Soul of Bhutan
This 15-day cultural expedition takes you through Bhutan's western, central, and eastern valleys, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the nation's rich traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Starting in Paro, home to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, and concluding in Samdrup Jongkhar, the gateway to India, this tour is designed for those who wish to immerse themselves in Bhutan's unique culture, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Customizable Tours
This private, tailor-made tour can be customized to match your interests, travel dates, and preferences. Experience Bhutan year-round, focusing on the places and activities that resonate with you.
Included/Excluded
- All private excursions and transfers in a superior air-conditioned vehicle
- Local English-speaking guide/tour leader
- Experienced driver
- Accommodation in carefully selected, high-standard, government-approved hotels and guesthouses
- All meals in Bhutan
- All entrance fees and permits
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, and tips
- Medical/Travel Insurance
Tour Plan
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO
Your journey begins with a scenic flight offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you at Paro airport. After lunch, explore the Ta Dzong Museum, showcasing Bhutanese religious relics, art, and handicrafts. Visit the Rimpong Dzong to admire the painting of the great saint Milarepa. End the day with a cultural orientation on Bhutanese etiquette before dinner. Overnight in Paro.
DAY 02: PARO
Embark on a hike to the famed Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. After lunch, visit the ruins of the 17th-century Drukgyel Dzong and the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples. Overnight in Paro.
Day 3: Haa Valley Day Trip
Travel through the scenic Chelila Pass (3,900 meters) to the picturesque Haa Valley. Explore its rugged terrain, traditional architecture, and serene landscapes before returning to Paro. Overnight in Paro.
DAY 04: PARO – THIMPHU
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Temple, and Zilukha Nunnery. If it’s the weekend, explore the vibrant Thimphu Market. Overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 05: THIMPHU
Discover Bhutan’s heritage at the School for Arts and Crafts, the National Library, and the Folk Heritage Museum. Visit the Traditional Paper Factory and the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan's national animal. Hike to the ancient Tango and Cheri Monasteries if time permits. Overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 06: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA
Cross the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters) with its stunning Himalayan views. In Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong and walk to the Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple. Overnight in Punakha or Wangdue.
DAY 07: PUNAKHA – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY
Travel to the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, a glacial haven and winter home to the black-necked cranes. Visit the Gangtey Monastery and the Phobjikha Sanctuary. Overnight in Phobjikha.
DAY 08: PHOBJIKA VALLEY – TRONGSA
Drive over Pele-La Pass (3,420 meters) to Trongsa. Visit the Chendebji Chorten en route and explore the majestic Trongsa Dzong and its museum. Overnight in Trongsa.
DAY 09: TRONGSA – BUMTHANG
Journey to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heart. Visit Jakar Dzong, Tamshing Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, and Jambay Lhakhang, each steeped in history and legend. Overnight in Bumthang.
DAY 10: BUMTHANG
Delve deeper into Bumthang’s cultural treasures, including Tang Ugyen Chholing Palace Museum and the sacred Mebartso (Lake of Fire). Overnight in Bumthang.
DAY 11: BUMTHANG – MONGAR
Cross the Thrumshing-La Pass (4,000 meters) to Mongar, enjoying stunning landscapes and charming villages along the way. Visit Mongar Dzong. Overnight in Mongar.
DAY 12: MONGAR – TRASHIGANG
Drive through lush forests and terraced fields to Trashigang, the largest district in Bhutan. Visit Trashigang Dzong. Overnight in Trashigang.
DAY 13: TRASHIGANG (Excursion to Tashiyangtse)
Explore Gom Kora Temple, Doksum Village, and Tashiyangtse Dzong. Visit the Chorten Kora stupa and the Zorig Chusum Institute, where traditional arts are taught. Overnight in Trashigang.
DAY 14: TRASHIGANG – SAMDRUP JONGKHAR
Descend through scenic landscapes to Samdrup Jongkhar, the gateway to Assam, India. Overnight in Samdrup Jongkhar.
DAY 15: SAMDRUP JONGKHAR – GUWAHATI
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati, Assam, for your onward journey. Tashi Delek!
Tour Map
Frequently asked question
Itinerary is always flexible if you are travelling in a smaller group. You have a choice of eating in a different restaurant, however, the menu depends on the chef and usually it is a set menu but not necessarily the same menu every day.
It is in the tourism industry but it is not compulsory. It actually depends on the service rendered to you.
Yes, things that are not included in the tariff are all beverages, telecommunications, tips, laundry, massage and souvenir shopping.
Bhutan is well connected and every town has IDD services. Internet cafes are available almost everywhere. Cell phones can also be used but you need to get Bhutan prepaid SIM Card and recharge it. Recharge vouchers are available at every second shop in town.
You can exchange money in the banks as well as in the hotels were you are staying. Rates will be better in the banks plus US$ is acceptable in almost all of the shops in town.
It cannot be safer anywhere else in the world.
Bhutan is all season tourist destination for cultural tours. However the month of February, March, April, and September, October, November are considered the best time due to pleasant weather conditions. December and January are winter months and June, July and August, the rainy season. It is important to note that the climatic conditions during the winter months are not extreme. The average temperature would range from 10-17 degree Celsius during day time.
The money you have transferred will be with held by the Tourism Council of Bhutan till the day you depart. Travel Agents can only withdraw the money after your departure upon submitting your tour invoice. Therefore, your money is safe.
It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without which the government will not issue the visa.
Decide the number of days you want to spend in Bhutan according to your interest and budget.
Decide the date and the port of entry (You can fly into Bhutan from one of these cities; Bangkok, Katmandu, New Delhi, Calcutta and Dacca) into Bhutan.
Fill up the visa application form (You can download the visa application form here).
Remit the total tour payment (You can download the money transfer details here). It is government rule that total tour payment must be remitted without   which the government will not issue the visa.
Once we have confirmed dates, port of entry, dully filled visa application form, and money received, we will process your visa.
Except for travelers from India, Bangladesh and Maldives, all visitors to Bhutan are required to obtain visa approval prior to their arrival, which will be processed by us.
Tourism is not restricted but the minimum daily tariff is set by the government. It is also necessary that all tourists must come through a registered tour operator to plan your itinerary and process your visa. Tourist cannot come on their own unless they are invited guest.
Druk Air operates daily flight (once daily) from Bangkok (Thailand) and four flights a week from New Delhi, Kathmandu and Calcutta (India) and two flights a week from Dacca (Bangladesh). There are different flight schedules for the summer and the winter seasons. For Druk Air schedules click on Flights Details or you can also visit Druk Air web site at www.drukair.com.bt . You can also enter Bhutan via Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri (West Bengal) in India. It has regular flights from New Delhi (twice daily).
Bhutan is connected to the outside world through Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines), the national carrier which is the only airline operating flights in and out of the kingdom.