The Kingdom of Bhutan is a visually stunning Himalayan country situated in the Eastern Himalayan region and is bordered byTibet and India. The mountain peaks here are over 7,000m, yet the nation also has lush subtropical plains. The pristine countryside is home to fabulous wildlife, including tigers, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, leopards, gray wolves, and elephants, to name some of the more iconic animals. The people are Buddhist, and their culture is fascinating. Situated at 2,320m, Thimphu is the capital city, although we fly into the main airport at Paro, 1.5 hours’ drive away from the capital. Flights for Paro leave from Kathmandu in the early morning, so the rest of the day is free to acclimatize and enjoy.
We can offer you short tours of 2 nights 3 days, or more extended visits of 7 nights. On these tours, some of the places you may visit include the Tiger’s Nest – a monastery built into a cliff (yes, we will hike up to it), and the Tashichho Dzong monastery. There are many places of cultural value, such as museums, monasteries, and craft bazaars. You can try your hand at the national game, archery, hike through rice fields, green valleys, and fascinating villages. The countryside is so stunning. You will certainly not be disappointed by this Kingdom with its snow-capped mountains and crisp, clean air.
Tour Highlights
Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery - An iconic cliffside monastery offering breathtaking views and a rewarding trek.
Explore Thimphu and Paro - Visit cultural landmarks like Tashichho Dzong, museums, monasteries, and vibrant craft bazaars.
Explore Bhutan's Natural Diversity - From lush subtropical plains to snow-capped Himalayan peaks over 7,000m.
Wildlife Encounters - Opportunity to spot iconic species such as tigers, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and elephants.
Immerse in Bhutanese Culture - Discover Buddhist traditions, try the national sport of archery, and hike through rice fields and charming villages.
Explore Punakha - Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, set at the stunning confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Explore Wangdue Phodrang - Discover the majestic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a hilltop fortress offering stunning views of river confluences, exquisite architecture, and deep cultural heritage.
Gangtey Valley - Panoramic Himalayan views from Dochula Pass, visit to the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery, exploration of the serene Phobjikha Valley, and chance to spot rare black-necked cranes in their winter habitat.
Trongsa Museum – Enjoy a scenic half-day hike through pine forests, villages, rivers, and black-necked crane roosting grounds, followed by a visit to the historic Ta Dzong watchtower, now a state-of-the-art museum dedicated to Bhutan’s monarchy.
Tour Itinerary
Altitude Chart For 7 Night 8 Days Bhutan Tour
Day 01 :
Fly from Kathmandu to Paro (2,200m) & drive to Thimphu (2,320m).
Today we will fly from Kathmandu to Paro airport by Druk Air, and it’s about a 1-hour flight. When you are on the air, the scenic beauty of the Himalaya mountains will amaze you. If the weather is favorable, you can also view Mt. Everest and other peaks. After arriving at Paro, we will drive to Thimphu, which is about 55 KM from Paro airport with 1:30 hrs drive, and check into our hotel.
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Thimphu.
Hotel White Tara
Hotel Amodhara
Namseling Boutique
Day 02 :
Full day sightseeing in Thimphu (2,320m).
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will visit Kuenselcholing viewpoint, which offers a clear view of Thimphu. We can also see the Buddha’s temple in Thimphu, home to a giant statue of Buddha. Similarly, the Memorial Chortens are the next attraction, where a particular Chorten was built in memory of the 3rd King in 1974. The king was also popular as the father of the modern Buddha. Likewise, ‘Fortress of Glorious Region’ Tashichho Dzong is another feature of this place, which was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1641. In that place, there is the throne of the king, the King’s office, the Secretariat building, and the central body of the monks. Overnight in Thimphu.
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Thimphu.
Hotel White Tara
Hotel Amodhara
Namseling Boutique
Day 03 :
Drive from Thimphu to Gangtey (2,800m).
Today, while driving towards Gangtey in the morning, we came across Dochula Pass (3,140 m/10,362 ft), from where a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range can be seen, especially on clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens – a 108 stupas built by the eldest Queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. In the mountains east of Wangdue Phodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha valley, on the slopes of which is situated the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century.
The village of Phobjikha lies a few km down from the monastery, on the valley floor. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of black necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north, to pass the winter months in a milder climate. Overnight in Gangtey.
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Gangtey.
Hotel Dewchen
Yangkhil Lodge
Phobjikha Resort
Day 04 :
Drive from Gangtey to Trongsa (2,200m).
This morning, you will hike across the Gangtey Nature Trail, which is one of the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails. In this trail, you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Gomba, which also leads to a sloping area of green grass, flanked by pine trees on either side. You will even come across some villages, rivers, crane roosting ground.
The Trongsa Museum is situated strategically above the Trongsa Dzong; the Ta Dzong served as the watch tower for centuries. It was built by Choeje Minjur Tempa in 1652. The museum is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and includes a media room where visitors can watch a documentary programme on the history of the monarchy. The Ta Dzong was renovated and converted into a museum at a cost of Nu—97 million with funds from the Austrian government. The museum is dedicated to the coronation and centenary celebrations. Overnight in Trongsa.
5 hours
3 Stars Hotel
Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner
Day 05 :
Drive from Trongsa to Punakha (1,200m).
Today, we will drive to Punakha and visit the Punakha Dzong (fortress), built in 1637 by Zhabdrung, which is remarkably located between the rivers of Mo (Female) Chu (river) and Pho (Male) Chu. Until the time of second king it served as a seat of the king. Hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). This Temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley (The Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about a thirty-minute hike across fields from the road –Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of the houses, and phalluses are also painted on the walls of houses. It is commonly believed that this helps drive away evil spirits. (30 minutes hike to and from, gentle steep, good footpath across the valleys and villages). Overnight in Punakha
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Punakha.
Hotel Lobesa
Punakha Residency
Hotel Pema Karpo
Day 06 :
Drive from Punakha to Paro (2,200m).
Today, we drive to Paro and visit Rimpung Dzong. The Bhutanese Dzongs are massive architectural structures constructed for a variety of functions throughout the country, from administrative buildings to monasteries and temples. Yet, they are carefully and thoughtfully designed and are strikingly beautiful. The Rimpung Dzong, known as the “fortress of the heap of jewels” in the picturesque setting of the Paro valley, is of course no exception, built in the time of the dynamic spiritual and political leader Zhabdrung in 1644. Once a year, as part of the Tsechu festival, one of the oldest Thongdol (gigantic scroll paintings) is ceremonially unfurled here.
We will also visit Kichu Lhakhang (Monastery), one of the two most sacred and oldest temples in Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Drugyeldzong, this ruined dzong, is of historical importance. It was built in 1649 by Zhabdrung to commemorate the victory of the Drukpas over the Tibetan invasion in 1644. The Bhutanese still vividly recall and celebrate this victory, which was tremendously important to the history of the area. On a clear day (7,326m/ 24,176ft), you have a fascinating view of the white domed peak of sacred Jhomolhari (Mountain of Goddess) . Overnight in Paro.
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Paro.
Mandala Resort
Metta Resort
Lhayhuel Resort
Day 07 :
Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (3,120m) & Paro sightseeing.
Early in the morning, after having breakfast, we will go for a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also called Tiger’s Nest. It is a remarkable thing in Bhutan, which is perched. The fire destroyed it in 1998, and it was rebuilt. It is said that the Guru Rimpoche came to this site sitting in the back of a Tigress. The trail during the hike is some gentle, steep in some places, and stony in others. After that, we will visit the Farmhouse. Take rest, refresh, and stay overnight in Paro.
We provide these hotels or similar category hotels in Paro.
Mandala Resort
Metta Resort
Lhayhuel Resort
Day 08 :
Fly from Paro to Kathmandu (1,400m).
Today, we will have breakfast early in the morning and then drive to Paro airport to take the flight to Kathmandu. Our company representative will come to the airport for pick up and transfer to the hotel in Thamel.
You can book your own accommodation in Kathmandu. This hotel is not included in a package.
Includes/Excludes
The Cost Includes
All airport pickup and drop-off services by private transportation.
Flight tickets from Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu.
Private comfortable transportation during sightseeing.
English-speaking local Bhutanese cultural tour guide.
Bhutan visa fees & all necessary travel permits.
Sightseeing & monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary.
Accommodation on a twin-sharing or double room basis (3-star category hotel).
Full board meal plan (breakfast, lunch & dinner).
Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fee - SDF (100$ per person, per night).
Mineral water during the trek or tour.
All government taxes & service charges.
The Cost Excludes
Travel & medical insurance.
Food and accommodation in Kathmandu.
Any kind of drinks (except water) or bar items during the tour.
Personal expenses (phone calls, internet, bar bills, laundry, and snacks etc).
Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance.
Horse ride during the hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Special filming, camera, and drone permit fee.
Tips for guide and driver (Expected).
Any additional services not listed in the included section.
More Information
Get In
Many tourists visiting Bhutan first arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal, and then proceed to Paro, Bhutan. All because of the opportunity to see the highest mountain in the world. Believe it or not, the air route between Kathmandu and Paro offers 7 out of the 14 highest mountains in the world, including Mt. Everest and hundreds of other small peaks below 7,000m. It is flying over more than half of the airspace of the Himalayas. However, Nepal is not only the route to get into Bhutan. There are limited (only six of the) countries that have flight transit to Bhutan. You can travel to Bhutan from Bangladesh (Dhaka), India (Bagdogra, Delhi, Gaya, Guwahati, and Kolkata), Singapore, Thailand (Bangkok), the United Arab Emirates (Dubai), and Nepal (Kathmandu). There are two weekly flights from Bagdogra, Gaya, Guwahati, Kolkata, Dhaka, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore by Druk Air. And there are seven flights every week by Druk Air & Bhutan Airlines during the season from Delhi, Bangkok, and Kathmandu, Nepal. By far, Kathmandu, Nepal, is the most significant transit point to enter Bhutan.
The Himalayan ranges as seen from Kathmandu during the Paro flight
Visa
Individual travelers are not allowed to enter Bhutan. It means you must book the tour through the authorized travel company by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. It costs USD 40 for a 30-day single-entry visa for all nations (except Indians, Bangladeshis, and Maldivians, who can receive the permit at the port of entry).
It is more straightforward to process a Bhutan tour package through the Nepal-based operators. If you look at the requirements of the Tourism Council of Bhutan, you have a long list that should be completed in advance. Kathmandu, Nepal, being the most significant entry point to Bhutan, offers travel companies more flexibility and competitive market prices.
Better deal with a Nepal-based company.
You can pay the visa fees once you have received the visa online.
The per-day package fee (USD 250-300), including SDF, could be paid upon arrival.
Only a copy of the passport and a passport-sized photograph is required to issue the visa.
Visa will be ready within 72 hours, and you can request it to be sent to your email.
All you need to do is plan the itinerary and make a deal with local operators. Please send us an email for more information. We are happy to make the best offer and make it an easy process. Visit our review page on TripAdvisor to learn more about our recent customer who has recently explored Bhutan with NEST Adventure.
Flight
As of 2025, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate more than ten flights per week between Kathmandu and Paro. While Druk Air flights to Kathmandu, Nepal, are available every day, Bhutan Airlines flights are available every other day. It’s a question I frequently receive from my customers. Why should I go to Nepal before I go to Bhutan, and here’s why?
Opportunity to fly beside 7 out of the 14 highest mountains in the world, which include Mt. Everest and hundreds of other small peaks below 7,000m.
The only available short (404km/1:20minutes) flight is one of the scenic and most challenging air routes in the world.
The only country with daily flights with two carriers and the cheapest of all.
Easy, affordable, and hassle-free visa and permit arrangements by a local Nepali travel company.
For many, visiting Nepal is often followed by a trip to Bhutan.
Flight schedule from Kathmandu
Accommodation
Part of the government tourism policies is “high-value low impact.” A 3-star hotel is included as part of the Bhutan tour package. When you book a tour with a local company, you can’t lower the price or request a standard hotel while visiting Bhutan. Typically, there is wifi, a friendly and clean bed, a hot/cold shower, a TV, a phone, a restaurant/bar, etc. You can upgrade to a 4/5 star hotel with an additional USD 50 a night.
Hotel in Thimpu
Food
Part of the package includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). As Bhutan offers more local and authentic options, you might not find all Western food, but you can expect a local taste. While visiting Bhutan, don’t forget to try some of the most common local Bhutanese food: Ema, Datshi (chilies and cheese), Jasha Maro (spicy chicken), Phakshan Pang (pork with red chilies), and Momos (Dumplings).
Local foods in Bhutan
Other Expenses
All meals, ground transportation, a local guide, entrance fee to the attraction, and accommodation are part of the package that you should arrange in advance. However, personal expenses, tips, and donation shopping, etc. should be extra. Bhutan is also an excellent place for shopping. It would be best if you arrived with your backpack relatively empty, so you have space to bring things back. As the last Buddhist kingdom in the world, they have many artistic souvenirs that your friends and family will love to have. Thanka painting, singing bowl, a statue of Buddha, a colorful Buddhist door curtain, and a praying flag might be the best souvenirs from Bhutan.
Singing bowls & Thanka in the local market, Bhutan
Best Time
Bhutan is located in the eastern trans-Himalayas with Tibet in the north and Indian to the east, west, and south. The weather in Bhutan varies significantly from place to place, depending on your location.
The monsoons start from June to September with heavy rains and high humidity. During the monsoon, the Himalayan vista might often be bothered by the cloud, but the hide-and-seek between these two giants is the most dramatic to watch in Bhutan. Autumn starts from October to November. The sky remains unobstructed with clear views of the Himalayas. While it usually is sunny, a light snow shower might occur at high elevations in late November.
Another ideal time is during the spring season, from March to May. High up in the valley, seasonal flowers come in full bloom. The Mountain views are at their most visible with the clear skies. Here is the weather of Paro, Bhutan, and the temperature throughout the year.
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Min Temp °C
-17
-15
-10
-5
-1
3
5
4
2
-5
-12
-16
Max Temp °C
1
1
4
7
10
12
12
13
11
8
5
3
Rainfall (mm)
4
8
16
21
24
40
75
72
34
14
4
1
What Should You Know Before Visiting Bhutan?
It’s the first tobacco-free country. Buying and selling tobacco is illegal in Bhutan. Tourists are limited to 200 cigarettes, so make sure to find a safe place; otherwise, you might be in trouble.
The last standing Buddhist nation in the world has a compulsory national dress for everyone.
The last country to experience the radio (1988), TV, and the Internet (1999).
The country’s products and consumption are primarily organic food.
In Bhutan, they don’t measure their country’s progress in GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Instead, they use GNH (Gross National Happiness), which is based on spiritual values. Bhutan has consistently ranked number #1 in Asia in the happiness index and top 10 in the world.
Bhutan is just about three times smaller than New York in size, with a population of about 750,000 people.
The first carbon negative country in the world, meaning it absorbs more CO2 than it gives out.
72% of the total area in Bhutan is forested, and the rest of the land is covered with mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves, and green hills terraces deep down in a valley.
The wildlife in Bhutan is preserved very well. If you harm, kill, or hunt an animal, you will be sentenced to life in jail.
Paro International Airport is one of the most dangerous airports in the world. As of 2020, there are only 17 pilots in the world who are qualified to land in Paro, Bhutan, deep down in the valley of 2,200m.
35% of the money you paid as part of the package directly supports the government fund for free healthcare, education, and the maintenance of tourist attractions.
If you love spicy food, you should try the Bhutanese menu. They eat chili at every meal.
A phallic symbol in Bhutan is common, and you can see almost every monastery during the festival, etc.
You pay in USD or Bhutanese currency (NU), but receiving change in Indian rupees (INR) is common in Bhutan. Bhutanese currency NU 1 is equivalent to 1 INR.
Mountaineering is not permitted in Bhutan. Anything below 6,000m is considered a trekking peak and is legal to hike.
Summer means monsoon in Bhutan. Expect the rain and heavy snow in the country.
Do not discuss the royals or the political issue, and make a discussion matter of illegal things, such as Bhutanese refugees, public smoking, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a South Asian country and a landlocked nation that is located in the eastern Himalayas between India and China.
How to enter Bhutan?
Except for residents of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, people need a visa to enter Bhutan. Also, a tour operator is required—the cost of a visa fee is 40 USD.
When is the best time to travel Bhutan?
The best time to travel to Bhutan is Autumn and Spring, i.e, September to November, and March to May. The festivals of Bhutan take place during this time, and the weather is also warmer and perfect for viewing.
What are the documents that I have to carry to Bhutan?
You need to have the visa confirmation letter provided by your tour operator and a copy of the itinerary with you.
What about the altitude sickness during the hike in Bhutan?
Bhutan is a Himalayan country. Altitude sickness is common, affecting many travelers. If you experience fatigue, edema, dehydration, insomnia, shortness of breath, or dizziness while traveling to Bhutan, it’s likely due to altitude sickness. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated, plan rest days, limit alcohol intake, and prepare with short hikes and exercises before the tour.
Is Bhutan safe to travel?
Bhutan is a safe country as it has a low crime rate. But it is said that prevention is better than cure, so take care of your backpack and personal items. It is better to have a professional and experienced travel guide to Bhutan for safety.
What are the facilities available in Bhutan?
In most places, the facilities and services are limited in Bhutan as the country is still in the process of development. However, hotels and resorts where you stay may have facilities such as Wi-Fi, electricity, and hot water. But you will be charged for using those facilities.
What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutanese Ngultrum is the currency of Bhutan, which is tied to the value of the Indian currency. So Indian currency is accepted in Bhutan.
What type of food and accommodation is found in Bhutan?
Western and Indian cuisine are found in most places in Bhutan. The main feature of Bhutanese cuisine is its sharp taste, often accompanied by chili.
Accommodation options range from homestays and small 3-star hotels to big 5-star hotels. It all depends on how much you can afford and the place you visit.
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