Transportation

Bus, Airlines
Accomodation

3 Stars Hotels
Maximum Altitude

24,836 metres
Departure from

Paro, Bhutan
Best season

Mar, April, May, June, July, Aug & Sep
Tour type

Eco-Tour, Hiking, City-Tour, Trekking
Meals

All meals during the Journey
Language

English, Spanish, French, Dzongkha
Fitness level

Easy to Moderate
Group Size

2-15
Minimum Age

12
Maximum Age

65

Overview

Discover the mystique and beauty of Bhutan, the last Shangri-La nestled in the heart of the eastern Himalayas, on this Bhutan Cultural Tour. Known for its unique blend of ancient traditions, rich culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Bhutan offers a rare opportunity to experience a country that has remained largely untouched by the outside world.

This immersive tour takes you through Bhutan’s spiritual heart, from the bustling streets of Thimphu, the capital, to the picturesque town of Punakha, and the serene landscapes of Paro. You’ll explore ancient monasteries, awe-inspiring fortresses, and peaceful valleys, while learning about Bhutan’s distinctive Buddhist traditions, vibrant festivals, and its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

A visit to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a cliff, is a highlight of this journey, along with visits to sacred sites like Dochula Pass and Punakha Dzong. Bhutan is also famous for its stunning architecture, with many buildings and monasteries following the same traditional style that has been maintained for centuries.

In addition to its cultural treasures, Bhutan’s natural beauty is unparalleled, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and pristine forests. Along the way, you’ll meet the warm-hearted Bhutanese people, whose friendly nature and strong sense of community add to the charm of this extraordinary destination.

Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking spiritual enrichment, the Bhutan Cultural Tour offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most unique and peaceful places on earth. Prepare for a journey of discovery, awe, and tranquility in the Himalayan kingdom that values happiness and well-being above all.

Highlights

Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang).
Explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive landmarks.
Visit Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, and discover its cultural and spiritual sites.
Scenic drive through Dochula Pass, offering panoramic Himalayan views.
Discover traditional Bhutanese crafts at the Textile Museum and Folk Heritage Museum.
Experience the serenity of the Chimi Lhakhang and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Paro – Welcome to Bhutan

Arrival in Paro: Fly into Bhutan's only international airport, where you’ll be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.
Afternoon: Relax and enjoy your first views of the Paro Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and historic landmarks. If time permits, visit the Rinpung Dzong (Paro Fortress) and the National Museum for a glimpse of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.
Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Bhutanese dishes, such as ema datshi (chili and cheese), red rice, and butter tea.

Overnight in Paro.

Day 2 :

Paro – Tiger's Nest Monastery and Cultural Exploration

Morning: Embark on the iconic trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), one of Bhutan's most famous and sacred sites. The monastery is perched high on a cliff and offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. The hike takes around 4-5 hours, with ample stops to rest and enjoy the views.
Afternoon: After returning from the monastery, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most important temples.
Evening: Explore Paro town, with its quaint shops, markets, and local handicrafts.

Overnight in Paro.

Day 3 :

Paro to Thimphu – Capital City Tour

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive from Paro to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering picturesque views of the valleys and mountains.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Thimphu, visit the Memorial Chorten, a sacred Buddhist stupa, and the National Library to learn about Bhutan's ancient texts and manuscripts.
Evening: Visit Tashichho Dzong, the royal government seat and home to the central monastic body of Bhutan. Enjoy an evening stroll around the city and a visit to the local market.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 4 :

Thimphu – Cultural and Spiritual Exploration

Morning: Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, an impressive statue overlooking Thimphu Valley. From here, take in panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Late Morning: Explore Changangkha Monastery, perched on a hilltop, and learn about its significance in Bhutanese Buddhism.
Afternoon: Visit the Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum to delve into Bhutan's traditional lifestyles and craftsmanship.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath experience in the evening, a perfect way to relax after your day of exploration.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 5 :

Thimphu to Punakha – Journey Through the Mountains

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital. The journey takes about 3 hours, crossing the Dochula Pass, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. The pass is also home to the 108 chortens (stupas) built in honor of Bhutan's soldiers.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and historical fortresses. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, it is a masterpiece of traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Evening: Take a relaxing stroll along the Punakha Suspension Bridge, the longest in Bhutan, which offers stunning views of the river and valley.

Overnight in Punakha.

Day 6 :

Punakha – Explore the Peaceful Valleys

Punakha – Explore the Peaceful Valleys.

Day 7 :

Punakha to Paro – Return to Paro

Morning: After breakfast, travel back to Paro by road, passing through picturesque valleys and charming villages along the way.
Afternoon: Once in Paro, visit the Paro Dzong and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery and its surroundings.
Evening: Enjoy a free evening to relax, do some last-minute shopping, or explore more of Paro’s scenic beauty.

Overnight in Paro.

Cost

The Cost Includes

Accommodation: 7 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels and boutique lodges in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, offering a blend of traditional Bhutanese charm and modern amenities.
Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotels.
Select lunches and dinners, including traditional Bhutanese meals such as ema datshi, red rice, momo (dumplings), and butter tea.
Welcome dinner on the first evening and a farewell dinner on the final night.
Transfers: All airport transfers (arrival and departure) to and from Paro International Airport.
All private land transport between cities (Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha) in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a local driver.
Guided Tours & Excursions: Expert local Bhutanese guides for the entire tour, providing historical, cultural, and spiritual insights.
Visits to key sites, including Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Punakha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Dochula Pass, and Chimi Lhakhang.Trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery and other scenic hikes in Paro and Punakha.
Entrance fees to all included monuments, monasteries, and attractions, such as the National Museum of Bhutan, Memorial Chorten, Textile Museum, and Folk Heritage Museum.
Cultural Experiences: Traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath experience in Thimphu or Punakha.
Visits to local markets and villages to experience Bhutan’s traditional way of life.
Learn about Bhutanese customs, culture, and spiritual practices through visits to monasteries, temples, and interactions with locals.
Support:
24/7 support from the tour operator before and during the trip.
Local assistance for any travel-related needs during the tour.
Travel Insurance: Basic travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation. (Please check if you need additional coverage.)

The Cost Excludes

International Airfare
Visa Charges
Hotel Expenses(some packages do include hotel expenses)
Your travel and medical insurance
Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
Food and accommodations
Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand all

What is the Bhutan Cultural Tour?

The Bhutan Cultural Tour is a guided travel experience designed to immerse visitors in the rich history, traditions, and unique culture of Bhutan, a small kingdom nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. The tour typically includes visits to sacred monasteries, traditional villages, cultural landmarks, and scenic landscapes, offering travelers an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s distinct way of life.

How long is the Bhutan Cultural Tour?

The duration of the tour can vary based on the package, but most Bhutan Cultural Tours last between 7 to 10 days. This allows time to explore key locations such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. These seasons offer pleasant weather and clear skies, perfect for trekking and sightseeing. The summer months (June to August) are the monsoon season, and winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in higher altitudes, but it’s a quieter time for tourism.

Is Bhutan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Bhutan is considered a very safe destination for tourists. The country has low crime rates, and its government emphasizes sustainability and tourism regulations to preserve its culture and environment. However, as with any travel destination, it’s always important to follow local customs and be mindful of your belongings.

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, visitors to Bhutan are required to have a visa. The visa application process is typically handled by licensed tour operators, who will assist in processing the visa once you’ve booked your tour package. All tourists must also book their travel through a registered Bhutanese tour operator.

What is the cost of the Bhutan Cultural Tour?

Bhutan has a unique tourism policy that includes a daily fee, which covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed tour guide. The daily fee typically ranges from $200 to $250 per person per day for standard tours, with higher rates for luxury packages. The exact price depends on the time of year, the type of accommodation, and the inclusions of the tour package.

Do I need to be physically fit for the Bhutan Cultural Tour?

While the tour is generally accessible to most visitors, some activities, such as hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, involve moderate physical exertion and require a certain level of fitness. The hike to Tiger’s Nest takes about 4-5 hours round-trip, with some steep sections. If you have concerns about your fitness level, it’s important to discuss this with your tour operator beforehand so they can tailor the itinerary to your needs.

What kind of food can I expect in Bhutan?

Bhutanese cuisine is flavorful, often centered around rice, vegetables, and chili-based dishes. The national dish, ema datshi, is a spicy cheese and chili stew. You’ll also find a variety of meat dishes, including pork, beef, and chicken. While most meals are traditionally Bhutanese, many accommodations and restaurants also offer international cuisine to cater to diverse tastes.

Bhutan Cultural Tour: Explore the Himalayan Kingdom

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Featured Trips

Fantastic Maldives Tour Package

Chile Explorer: A Journey Through Stunning Landscapes and Rich Culture

Paris Effiel Tower Tour 1 Day Tour

Contact Info

Destinations

Activities

Quick Links

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Map

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Featured Trips

Related Trips