Tour Route
Arrival Paro 02 Nights Thimphu 01 Night Punakha 01 Night Phobjikha Valley 02 Nights Paro Departure Paro
Tour Overview
Experience the ultimate journey through the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" with our comprehensive Classic Bhutan Tour Package (06 Nights / 07 Days). Expertly curated by The Holiday Trips' certified Bhutanese travel specialists, this immersive itinerary covers the cultural heartlands and pristine natural valleys of the kingdom.
Your journey begins with an arrival in Paro, followed by a deeply cultural two-night stay in the capital city, Thimphu. From there, you will traverse the iconic Dochu La Pass to the warm and historic valley of Punakha. Unlike shorter tours, this classic itinerary takes you further into the mystical, glacial Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey), renowned for its serene landscapes and the endangered Black-Necked Cranes.
The adventure culminates with a two-night stay in Paro, allowing you ample time to conquer the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) hike. By ensuring all mandatory Sustainable Development Fees (SDF), Route Permits, and official Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) guides are pre-arranged, we guarantee an authentic, hassle-free, and profoundly enriching vacation deeply rooted in 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
- Stand before the awe-inspiring 169 ft tall Buddha Dordenma in Thimphu.
- Capture the 108 memorial chortens at the scenic Dochu La Pass (3,100m).
- Explore the architectural masterpiece of Punakha Dzong by the river confluence.
- Witness the untouched beauty and wildlife of the glacial Phobjikha Valley.
- Trek up to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) hanging on a sheer cliff.
- Immerse yourself in authentic Bhutanese traditions, textiles, and cuisine.
Day-wise Itinerary
Welcome to the mystical Kingdom of Bhutan! Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our certified Bhutanese guide. We will then embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive alongside the crystal-clear Paro and Thimphu rivers to the capital city, Thimphu. After checking into your hotel, spend the evening exploring the local town. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Attractions Covered:
- Tachog Lhakhang Iron Bridge (Enroute)
- Thimphu City Center & Clock Tower
- Local Handicraft Markets
After breakfast, dedicate a full day to exploring the cultural and historical landmarks of Thimphu, the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. From massive golden statues to living museums that showcase ancient traditions, today is all about understanding Bhutan's unique heritage. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Monuments Covered:
- Buddha Dordenma (Kuensel Phodrang)
- National Memorial Chorten
- Motithang Takin Preserve (National Animal)
- Simply Bhutan Living Museum
- Tashichho Dzong (Outer View)
- Textile Academy & Museum
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive towards the warmer valley of Punakha. The route takes you over the spectacular Dochu La Pass (3,100 meters), known for its 108 memorial stupas and breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas. Descend into Punakha to visit the most beautiful fortress in the country. Overnight stay in Punakha.
Monuments Covered:
- Dochu La Pass (108 Chortens)
- Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness)
- Punakha Suspension Bridge
- Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility)
Today, we drive deeper into the Bhutanese mountains towards the stunning U-shaped glacial valley of Phobjikha (also known as Gangtey). This pristine valley is the winter home to the rare and endangered Black-Necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, vast open green landscapes, and ancient monasteries. Overnight stay in Phobjikha.
Places Covered:
- Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Goempa)
- Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
- Gangtey Nature Trail (Short easy walk)
- Phobjikha Valley Viewpoints
After soaking in the morning tranquility of the valley, we begin our return journey towards Paro. The drive will take you back through the Dochu La Pass and Thimphu before arriving in the historic Paro valley. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy some leisure time or local sightseeing. Overnight stay in Paro.
Monuments Covered:
- Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)
- Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan)
- Paro Handicraft Market
Today is dedicated to the most iconic symbol of Bhutan—the Taktsang Monastery, widely known as the Tiger's Nest. We drive to the base and begin our hike up the forested path. The monastery miraculously clings to a sheer rock cliff 900 meters above the valley. After the exhilarating hike, we visit one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Overnight stay in Paro.
Hike & Sightseeing 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: A sacred 7th-century temple visited after descending.
Your classic 7-day adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan comes to an end today. After breakfast, our team will assist you with checking out and drive you to Paro International Airport. Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, carrying home unforgettable memories of happiness, culture, and majestic mountains.
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.
Phobjikha is one of the most stunning glacial valleys in Bhutan and provides a stark, beautiful contrast to Thimphu and Paro. It allows you to see the endangered Black-Necked Cranes (in winter) and experience untouched rural Bhutanese landscapes.
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.
