Bhutan Cultural Tour (An introduction to Bhutan) - 05 Days

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Trip Facts

Trip Start/Ends
Kathmandu, Nepal
Trip Difficulty
Cultural & Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour in Bhutan
Trip Style
Deluxe Hotel Staying in Bhutan
Meals
Full Board of Meals
Accommodation
Deluxe Hotels
Max. Elevation
3180m @ Dochu-la Pass
Group Size
Min- 2 Pax. Max- 15 Pax

Overview

Cultural Tours in Bhutan offer visitors the opportunity to witness the Bhutanese rich cultural heritage, traditions, and stunning natural beauty. On this tour, you will visit beautiful Bhutanese cities of Paro, Thimphu & Punakha including beautiful Buddhist monasteries, magnificent fortresses and traditional ways of Bhutanese life. As you drive from Paro to Thimpu, then to Punakha on the lush tropical forests and mountains, you will experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this beautiful mountain country. Bhutan’s landscapes are truly awe- inspiring. While touring Bhutan's capital- Thimphu, you are amazed with bhutanese architecture, with its traditional wooden buildings, elaborately decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. 

Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan is home to Punakha Dzong, one of the largest and most impressive dzongs in Bhutan. Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Bhutanese saint and “Divine Madman” is another impressive tour in Punakha. The temple is known for its colorful murals and its association with fertility, and is a popular pilgrimage site for childless couples seeking blessings.

Day hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, locally known as Paro Taktsang, is a sacred Buddhist temple, is truly a highlight of this trip. Tiger Nest, is said to have been built in the 8th century, and associated with Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, considered as one of the most iconic and important spiritual sites in Bhutan. Perched on a cliff at the altitude of 3180m from sea level at Paro Valley, Tiger Nest offers stunning views of Bhutanese landscapes and natural beauty.

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When is Best to Visit Bhutan?
Spring months from March to May are considered the best time to travel Bhutan. Spring flowering seasons have blossomed in trees, it has clear weather and excellent visibility. Also, Autumn, Sep to Nov are considered the second best season to travel Bhutan. Weather and visibility will be perfect, but temperature could get slightly cold compared to spring months.

Important Trip Note

Please acknowledge that you are joining us for an adventure trip in the remote Himalayan Region in Bhutan. Weather conditions, the health and fitness of participants, or unexpected natural disasters may necessitate changes to the itinerary. In such cases, your understanding is appreciated, but we will make every effort to stay into the original schedule.

Your safety and satisfaction during the trip are our top priorities. We assure you of the best team, logistics, and professional services to ensure you have an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience with us. Please note that the trip leader has the final authority to amend, change the route, or cancel the trip due to extreme conditions for safety precautions. However, every effort will be made to stay to the stated plan. Please be prepared for flexibility if necessary.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Paro Arrival. Transfer to Thimphu Valley (2300m)- 54 Km Drive- 1 Hour. Afternoon Tour in Thimphu

    On your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be picked up by our Bhutanese Tour Guide and then transfer to Thimphu- Capital of Bhutan. Once settled into the hotel, you will have lunch, the first taste of the Bhutanese cuisine.

    On your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be picked up by our Bhutanese Tour Guide and then transfer to Thimphu- Capital of Bhutan. Once settled into the hotel, you will have lunch, the first taste of the Bhutanese cuisine.

    Post lunch, you will visit National Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious and cultural landmark built in honor of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is considered the father of modern Bhutan. Its architecture is based on the ancient Tantric principles of Buddhism, and its design is said to represent the path to enlightenment.

    Next, we visit Thimphu Dzong or Tashichho Dzong, the largest Dzong in Bhutan, which is also the seat of the office of the King of Bhutan.

    Thereafter, we will drive up to Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park to visit the statue of Buddha Dordenma, also known as Vajra Throne Buddha which is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. It is 169 feet tall, made of bronze and is covered in gold. It is an impressive Buddha statue. Panoramic view of Thimphu valley seen from here is incredible. Afterwards, return back to the hotel, dinner and overnight at Thimphu.

    • Distance: N/A
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    Accommodation

    Khang Residency Or Similar (3 star deluxe hotel)

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    Meals

    Full Board of Meals (B, L, D,), tea/coffee & Snacks 

  • Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing. Evening, drive to Punakha Valley (1350m/4428ft)- 71 Kms- 2.30 Hours’ Drive

    Morning breakfast at the hotel, then drive to visit Changangkha Temple/ Lhakhang. Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the country, and is dedicated to the protection of the children and their families.

    Morning breakfast at the hotel, then drive to visit Changangkha Temple/ Lhakhang. Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the country, and is dedicated to the protection of the children and their families. This temple features beautiful traditional Bhutanese architecture, painting and carvings covering the walls and ceilings. From here, we drive to visit Simply Bhutan, a living museum in Thimphu.

    This afternoon, we will drive to Punakha through beautiful Bhutanese countryside, via Dochula Pass (3100m) which consists of 108 chortens built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Indian militants. These Chortens are a fine example of Bhutanese craftsmanship. Dochula Pass offers stunning panoramic views of Bhutanese mountains. On reaching Punakha, check in to the hotel, dinner and overnight. 

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    Accommodation

    Hotel River Valley Or Similar (3 star hotel)

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    Meals

    Full Board of Meals (B, L, D), Tea/Coffee & Snacks 

  • Day 3: Morning: Punakha Tour. Afternoon, drive back to Paro (2150m)- 125 Km- 3-4 Hours Drive 

    Morning, we will visit Punakha Dzong which is a historic fortress and Buddhist Monastery in Punakha Valley. The dzong is one of the largest, country’s most important cultural and architectural landmarks. Punakha Dzong is known for its beautiful paintings, sculptures, and intricate carvings.

    Morning, we will visit Punakha Dzong which is a historic fortress and Buddhist Monastery in Punakha Valley. The dzong is one of the largest, country’s most important cultural and architectural landmarks. Punakha Dzong is known for its beautiful paintings, sculptures, and intricate carvings. You will enter inside to visit the dzong’s many temples, shirines, and courtyards. Punakha Dzong is a truly unique and fascinating fortress to visit in Bhutan.

    Next, we will drive to visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the fertility deity, Drukpa Kuenley. The temple is located on a hilltop and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and fertile land, making it a popular destination for visitors to Punakha. This afternoon, you will drive back to Paro, via Thimphu. Check in to the hotel, dinner and overnight. 

    • Distance: N/A
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    • Descending: N/A
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    Accommodation

    Metta Resort (3 Star Deluxe Hotel)

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    Meals

    Full Board of Meals (B, L, D,), Tea/ Coffee & Snacks 

  • Day 4: Hike to Tiger Nest Monastery / Taktsang Monastery (3180m)

    With an early breakfast at a hotel in Paro, you will have a scenic drive about 30 min to Ramthangkha, then start off hiking to Tiger's Nest. This hike is amazing in nature, uphill in subtropical forest. Within a slow walk of 2 hours plus, you will reach the cafeteria, and will have a short break for tea/coffee.

    With an early breakfast at a hotel in Paro, you will have a scenic drive about 30 min to Ramthangkha, then start off hiking to Tiger's Nest. This hike is amazing in nature, uphill in subtropical forest. Within a slow walk of 2 hours plus, you will reach the cafeteria, and will have a short break for tea/coffee. You will be able to take a horse ride up to the cafeteria as well. Cafeteria offers a stunning view of Tiger Nest.

    From here, an hour hike brings you to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Locally known as Paro Taktsang, Tiger's Nest Monastery is a sacred Buddhist site that is perched on a cliff and is considered to be one of the most sacred and important sites in Bhutan. Tiger’s Nest Monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

    On return, lunch at the cafeteria, then walk down to Ramthangkha, then you will drive to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, another oldest temple in Bhutan. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage, and is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

    Next, you will visit Paro Dzong, a large Buddhist fortress in Paro. Built in the 17th century, it served as both a religious and administrative center for the region. It is considered as one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and famous for its finest Bhutanese architecture. Return back to the hotel, refreshed up, dinner and overnight. 

    • Distance: N/A
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    Accommodation

    Metta Resort Or Similar (3 Star Deluxe Hotel)

     

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    Meals

    Full Board of Meals (B, L, D,), Tea/Coffee & Snacks

  • Day 5: Departure from Paro

    Morning breakfast at the hotel, then your guide will drop you to Paro International Airport for your departure flight to onward destination. 

    Morning breakfast at the hotel, then your guide will drop you to Paro International Airport for your departure flight to onward destination. 

    Our services end !

    • Distance: N/A
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    Accommodation

    No Hotel Today 

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    Meals

    Breakfast 

Do you want customize this trip ?

If this itinerary doesn't suit you and you'd like to create your own, let's talk now!

Inclusion

  • Bhutan Visa & Travel Permit: Cost of Bhutan Visa Fee and Bhutan Travel Permit, National Park Fees
  • Bhutan Tour Guide: Bhutan Cultural Guided Tour by fluent English-speaking Bhutanese Tour Guide, all payment / insurance
  • Tour Transportation: Round Trip cultural tour and sightseeing drive by deluxe private vehicle as per the group size, road permit, all payment for driver 
  • Sightseeing & Fees: All the cost of sightseeing fees, Monasteries entrance, monuments fees on the tour suggested
  • Hotels: Gov. Approved Accommodation 3-star deluxe hotels in Paro & Thimphu and 3-star standard hotel in Punakha
  • Meals: Meals on full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, tea/coffee, snacks)
  • Bhutan Goverment Taxes: All required Bhutan Government taxes, SDF Fees & local taxes as applicable 
  • Arrival/Departure Transfer: Arrival and departure transfer in Paro

Exclusion

  • Flights To/ Out Bhutan: Flight to Paro, Bhutan and return flight (Paro has every day flight from Kathmandu, Nepal, Delhi, Singapore and Thailand, operated by Druk Air- Bhutanese National Carrier 
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance with coverage of flight delayed, emmergency evacuation, and trip cancellation
  • Personal Expenses: Cost of personal nature expenses, cost of coca cola, Alcoholic drinks, Laundry, phone calls etc.
  • Tips: Tips to guide and driver  

Meals & Accommodation

Meals

During the Bhutan Cultural Tour, your meals is at full board. You will be eating a local Bhutanese Foods throughout the tour days. You will be eating breakfast and dinner at the hotel you are staying and lunch will be at restaurant in town. Bhutanese Foods are great in choice, organic and tasty. Bhutan use rice, curry, breads, eggs, and choice of meats so you will be enjoying a food at this tour with us.

Accommodation

During this Tour, you will be staying in 3-star deluxe hotels and resorts. In Paro, you will stay at Metta Resort or similar, and in Thimpu, your accommodation will be at the Khang Residency or similar standard accommodation. In Punakha, you are staying in Hotel River Valley or similar standard hotel. These hotels are a typical Bhutanese Boutique Hotels equipped with all the luxurious amenities for your comfort staying. 


Guides

We are team of professionals who share a common devotion to the outdoors and are commited to world travel.

Dates & Price

2025
  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Route Map & Altitude

Things to explore more..

Altitude Chart

Trip Informations

FAQ's

  • Where is Bhutan ?

    Bhutan is a landlocked country nestled in the Eastern Himalayas of South Asia, sharing borders with India to the east, west, and south, while China lies to the north. 

  • How do I obtain a Bhutan Visa ? 

    We organize your Bhutan Visa as a part of your tour package with us. Your visa will be obtained in advance prior to your arrival, and it is an e-visa. 

  • Is it possible to extend my Bhutan Tour during the tour itself ? 

    Once the tour begins, it is not possible to extend the duration of your tour days. However, in the event that your flight from Paro is canceled due to adverse weather conditions and you need to spend an additional night in Bhutan, you are permitted to stay for an extra night without requiring a visa extension. During this time, you are not allowed to leave your hotel or resort. The following day, you will be directly transferred to the airport for your departure. 

  • Who will be my Tour Guide ? 

    Your tour guides will be local Bhutanese guides who have been trained and certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. They are fluent in English and possess extensive knowledge about Bhutan's history, culture, and traditions. 

     

  • What types of vehicles are used for this tour in Bhutan ? 

    For our Bhutan Tour, we use a variety of vehicles based on the group size and requirements. We use deluxe cars, jeeps, or vans, depending on the specific needs of the tour. These vehicles are carefully selected to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for our guests. 

    Our vehicles are brand new and well-maintained, guaranteeing their optimal condition. We prioritize the comfort and satisfaction of our guests, so the seats in our vehicles are regularly maintained to provide a smooth and enjoyable ride throughout the tour. 

  • Is travel insurance necessary for the Bhutan Tour ? 

    Yes, it is highly recommended that you obtain travel insurance that provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency air ambulance services, flight delays, and trip cancellations. 


Ms. Janet Bartolo

NSW, Australia

The trip was fantastic. Travels through the Himalayas of Bhutan & Ladakh
4.45

Travels through the Himalayas

Recently completed traveling through Bhutan and the Himalayan region of India (Ladakh) organized by Classic Vacations Nepal. The trip was fantastic. The people and landscape were amazing. Classic Vacations Nepal - especially Chet - did a great job organizing our trip and adapting to our changing schedule. Can highly recommend Bhutan and Ladakh as Himalayan destinations and Classic Vacations Nepal to organize your adventure.

Ms. Rachel Prior

Wollongong, Australia

We had an outstanding holiday thanks to Classic Vacations Nepal
4.45

Himalayan Cultural Holiday

Having just returned from an epic cultural holiday exploring the Himalayas, I can’t speak highly enough of Classic Vacations Nepal and the attentive care we were given by Chet Bhatta. Using Kathmandu in Nepal as our base we travelled to both the beautiful Kingdom of Bhutan and the breathtaking territory of Ladakh in India. Both trips were very well organized, the tour guides exceptional and the accommodation terrific. Chet could not do enough to make sure we were happy and made sure we were well prepared for the different trips from supplying an extra parka jacket and even a finger pulse oximeter for the high passes in Ladakh. He was always available to answer questions at any time of the day. We had an outstanding holiday thanks to Classic Vacations Nepal

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