Complete Bhutan Tour – 7 Nights 8 Days Journey in the Himalayas

Your journey to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan begins as you arrive at Paro International Airport, nestled in a dramatic Himalayan valley. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our staff and escorted on a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. En route, you’ll stop at Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu Rivers, where three chortens in Bhutanese, Nepalese, and Tibetan styles symbolize spiritual harmony.

A short detour will take you to Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple founded by the legendary bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo. Cross a traditional iron chain bridge and take in the calm rural scenery. Upon reaching Thimphu, check in to your boutique hotel and unwind. Later in the day, visit the King’s Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious landmark filled with spinning prayer wheels and soft chanting by local devotees. End the day at Tashichho Dzong, the grand fortress-monastery and seat of the royal government and monastic body.

Overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Thimphu, a city where tradition and modernity co-exist. First, visit the towering Buddha Dordenma, a majestic golden statue seated atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the valley. Proceed to the School of Traditional Arts (Zorig Chusum), where young Bhutanese learn 13 traditional crafts like painting, woodcarving, and embroidery.

Next, explore the Textile Museum and Folk Heritage Museum, which provide deep insight into Bhutanese history, dress, and rural life. After lunch, walk around Thimphu’s weekend market (if visiting Fri–Sun), where locals sell fresh produce, incense, and traditional handicrafts. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the valley perched on a ridge above the city, before winding down the day with a relaxed evening in town.

Overnight in Thimphu.

Start early today for the drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Ascend to Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), a scenic viewpoint adorned with 108 memorial chortens known as the Druk Wangyal Stupas. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Eastern Himalayan peaks, including Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest mountain.

Continue descending into the subtropical Punakha Valley, where you’ll visit Chimi Lhakhang, also called the Temple of Fertility. It was built in honor of the “Divine Madman” Lama Drukpa Kunley and is a popular pilgrimage site, especially for childless couples. After lunch, proceed to the magnificent Punakha Dzong, perhaps Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Its intricate woodwork and grand courtyards make it a standout monument.

Overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast, leave behind the warm plains of Punakha for the misty highlands of Gangtey, located in the pristine Phobjikha Valley. The journey takes you through thick forests, remote villages, and highland meadows. On arrival, you’ll visit the Gangtey Goemba, an important monastery of the Nyingma school of Buddhism, perched on a forested ridge.

Later, enjoy a nature walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, a gentle path that offers sweeping views of the glacial valley. If visiting between November and February, you may spot the endangered black-necked cranes, revered in Bhutanese culture, as they migrate here from Tibet. The valley’s silence and serenity offer a meditative atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

Overnight in Gangtey.

After breakfast in Gangtey, begin your drive back westward toward Paro, a picturesque valley famed for its traditional architecture and spiritual sites. En route, stop at Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s first fortress-monastery built in 1627, now a monastic school.

Upon arrival in Paro, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Later, visit the imposing Rinpung Dzong, a fortress of dazzling beauty and historical significance. The walk from the dzong down to the cantilevered wooden bridge is especially scenic. If time permits, stroll through Paro’s quaint town center, dotted with local cafés and shops offering handmade goods.

Overnight in Paro.

After an early breakfast, prepare for the most iconic experience of your Bhutan tour — a pilgrimage hike to the sacred Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. The trail winds up through pine forests adorned with prayer flags and takes about 2–3 hours to ascend. The monastery clings dramatically to a sheer cliff, 900 meters above the Paro Valley.

After visiting the site and enjoying lunch at the cafeteria viewpoint, descend back to Paro. In the afternoon, visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, once a stronghold against Tibetan invasions, and then continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most spiritual temples, originally built in the 7th century.

Overnight in Paro.

Enjoy a full day of relaxation or exploration at your own pace. You can revisit places like the National Museum (Ta Dzong) or explore Paro’s countryside on a gentle cycling or nature walk. Optional experiences like a traditional hot stone bath, cultural show, or archery session can be arranged.

This is also a great time to pick up souvenirs, try Bhutanese cuisine, or simply relax and reflect on your beautiful Himalayan journey.

Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Paro International Airport in time for your onward flight. As you soar above the emerald valleys and snow-capped peaks, you’ll carry with you the blessings and memories of Bhutan — the Last Shangri-La.