Tour Route
Arrival Paro 01 Night Thimphu 01 Night Punakha 03 Nights Paro Departure Paro
Tour Overview
Discover the breathtaking "Land of the Thunder Dragon" with our carefully crafted Bhutan Essentials Tour Package (05 Nights / 06 Days). Guided by The Holiday Trips' certified local Bhutanese experts, this journey promises a seamless blend of spiritual tranquility, majestic Himalayan landscapes, and rich ancient traditions.
Your adventure begins as you land in the beautiful valley of Paro, immediately transferring to the capital city, Thimphu, where modernity meets tradition. You will then cross the scenic Dochu La Pass to experience the temperate and historically significant valley of Punakha, home to the most beautiful Dzong in the country.
The tour concludes with an extended stay in Paro, allowing you to acclimatize and embark on the iconic hike to the cliffside Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), followed by a high-altitude excursion to Chele La Pass. We handle all your Sustainable Development Fees (SDF), route permits, and visa processing, ensuring a stress-free and profoundly joyful travel experience reflecting Bhutan's Gross National Happiness.
Certified Local Guides & Hassle-Free Permits
All our Bhutan itineraries are led by Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) certified professional guides. We guarantee 100% transparency in SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) processing and route permit approvals.
Tour Highlights
- Marvel at the 169 ft tall bronze Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu.
- Cross the breathtaking Dochu La Pass (3,100m) with its 108 memorial chortens.
- Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers.
- Trek up to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) hanging on a cliff.
- Visit Chele La Pass, the highest motorable road in Bhutan for stunning mountain views.
- Experience authentic Bhutanese culture, cuisine, and warm hospitality.
Day-wise Itinerary
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our local representative. We will then take a scenic 1.5-hour drive alongside the Paro and Thimphu rivers to the capital city, Thimphu. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around Thimphu town. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Evening Sightseeing / Attractions:
- Tachog Lhakhang Bridge (Enroute)
- Tashichho Dzong (Outer View)
- Thimphu Local Market
After breakfast, explore the major cultural sights of Thimphu. Post lunch, we embark on a spectacular drive towards Punakha, crossing the famous Dochu La Pass where you can witness panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan ranges on a clear day. Check in to your hotel upon arrival. Overnight stay in Punakha.
Monuments Covered:
- Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point)
- National Memorial Chorten
- Motithang Takin Preserve
- Dochu La Pass (108 Chortens)
After breakfast, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, the ancient winter capital of Bhutan, sitting beautifully between the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Later, enjoy a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). In the afternoon, we retrace our drive back to the serene valley of Paro. Overnight stay in Paro.
Monuments Covered:
- Punakha Dzong
- Punakha Suspension Bridge
- Chimi Lhakhang Temple
- Scenic Paro Valley Drive
Today marks the highlight of your Bhutan trip. After an early breakfast, we drive to the base camp to begin the hike up to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. This breathtaking monastery clings to a sheer cliff 900 meters above the Paro valley floor. It is a rigorous but deeply rewarding hike. Return to Paro in the late afternoon to rest. Overnight stay in Paro.
Hike Details:
- Taktsang Monastery: Approx. 4-5 hours of total hiking time (round trip).
- Cafeteria Stop: Rest midway with an incredible view of the monastery.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: Visit one of Bhutan's oldest temples after descending.
After breakfast, enjoy a mesmerizing drive to Chele La Pass (approx. 3,988 meters), the highest motorable road in Bhutan. The pass is adorned with thousands of fluttering prayer flags and offers spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake on clear days. Spend time enjoying the alpine environment before heading back to Paro for souvenir shopping. Overnight stay in Paro.
Places Covered:
- Chele La Pass (High Altitude Viewpoint)
- Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)
- National Museum of Bhutan
- Paro Handicrafts Market
Today concludes your mystical journey in Bhutan. After an early breakfast, our representative will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Carry home a lifetime of peaceful and magical memories from the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Package Inclusions
- Accommodation in 3-star/4-star certified hotels
- Daily Breakfast & Dinner (MAP Plan)
- Private SUV / Minibus for all sightseeing
- Official Bhutan E-Permit processing
- English speaking, TCB Certified Bhutanese Guide
- Mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Package Exclusions
- International Airfare / Flights to Paro
- Monument Entry Fees & Museum Tickets
- Daily Lunches
- Travel Insurance (Mandatory for entry)
- Tips for Guide and Driver (Customary)
- Personal expenses like laundry, phone, drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
The SDF is a daily levy mandated by the Royal Government of Bhutan to fund free healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Our package quotation will clearly state the applicable SDF included for your nationality (e.g., INR 1200/day for Indian nationals).
Indian nationals do not require a visa but need an Entry Permit. Our team will handle all the E-Permit paperwork prior to your arrival. Ensure you have a valid Passport (min 6 months validity) or original Voter ID card.
The hike is considered moderate to strenuous due to the steep incline and altitude. It takes about 2 to 3 hours to climb up at a steady pace. Ponies can be hired at the base for the first half of the ascent if needed.
The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the skies are clear and the weather is pleasant for hiking and enjoying the Himalayan views.
Yes, the Bhutanese government mandates that all tourists must be accompanied by a certified Bhutanese guide. We provide experienced English-speaking guides for the entirety of your tour.
The local currency is Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian currency notes (up to ₹500 denomination) are widely accepted across Bhutan.
