Short Bhutan Tour Package
Duration
5 Days
Max Altitude
3,120 m. / 10,236 ft.
Difficulty
Easy
Group Size
2-16 People Pax
Meals
- 4 Breakfast
- 4 Lunch
- 4 Dinner
Accommodation
- Hotel
Activities
- Sightseeing
- Hike
- Your safety, our no 1 priority
- Best price guarantee
- Experienced & dedicated team
- Easy booking, no hidden charge
- You can customize this trip
Talk to Travel Expert
Samundra Rimal (+977-9843127084)
Introduction of Short Bhutan Tour Package
Short Bhutan Tour offers a unique chance to see a Himalayan that considers its success in terms of Gross National Happiness. In just five days, this tour introduces you to its colorful culture, dramatic landscapes, and spiritual lifestyle.
You begin with the small town of Paro and proceed to the capital Thimphu, visiting riverside monasteries and mountain passes. In our trip to Short Bhutan package, you will explore the old dzongs, stroll the busy markets, and catch panoramic mountainous sceneries.
The trip is scheduled in such a way that you will have a lot of time to explore the culture and nature of Bhutan without the feeling of having to rush to cover the distance. This trip can be made more authentic and unforgettable with the services of professional guides and comfortable transportation, and an introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
This is a scenic tour with gentle hikes and an introduction to the local culture. You will visit the huge fortresses of Thimphu, cross into the snow-capped Dochu La Pass, and see the riverside dzong of Punakha, then you will be heading back to Paro.
It is also worth visiting the Taktsang Monastery, known as Tiger Nest, which is a cliff above the valley. On the tour, you will find friendly people and enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine. The country is resolute in having sustainable tourism and is the only carbon-negative country in the world.
The fact that Bhutan has tight control over the number of visitors gives every Short Bhutan tour a sense of exclusivity and serenity. It is a preview of a memorable trip through one of the most mysterious places in Asia.
Trip Highlights
- Flight over Paro and tour of Thimphu by road.
- See beautiful Thimphu dzongs and markets.
- Cross the scenic Dochu La Pass and view 108 memorial chortens.
- See Punakha Dzong and the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang.
- Going up to Taktsang Monastery.
- Explore old Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro.
- Exploring Bhutanese cuisine and culture.
Detail Itinerary of Short Bhutan Tour Package
Day 01: Arrival in Paro- Drive to Thimphu
After arriving at the most scenic Paro International Airport, you will be picked up by our representative who will drive you to the capital, Thimphu. The 50km trip takes 1.5 -2 hours based on road conditions that move along the Paro Chu River.
On the road, you pass by Tachogang Lhakhang, which is a temple erected by an iron bridge builder known as Thangtong Gyalpo. Thimphu has the National Memorial Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, and Tashichho Dzong, which are impressive.
Thimphu is located at an altitude of approximately 2,648 m, and this makes the city one of the highest capitals in the world. The night is open to walk in the local markets, taste the Bhutanese food, and sleep for your next adventure.
Activity: 1.5 -2 hrs
Max. Altitude: 2,648m/8,688ft. Thimphu
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02: Thimphu – Dochu La – Punakha
Your Short Bhutan tour will continue after breakfast with a drive towards Punakha through Dochu La Pass. The pass is at 3,150 m, where you can see the 108 memorial chortens and panoramic views of snow-covered mountains.
Before leaving, you will visit the Kuensel Phodrang in Thimpu, where you admire the huge statue of the bronze Buddha Dordenma. Going down to the warmer Punakha Valley, you pass rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman.
Subsequently, you visit Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress, where the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers meet, with complex murals and historical importance. The 75km journey takes three to four hours. You stay overnight in Punakha and enjoy local foods with your guide.
Max. Altitude: 1,200m/3,937ft. Punakha
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 03: Punakha – Thimphu – Paro
The day begins with an early morning drive from Punakha to Thimphu.. On arrival, sightseeing of Changangkha Lhakhang, which is a hill top temple, then stop at the Motithang Takin Preserve located in the city where the national animal of Bhutan dwells. One can get a taste of life in the monastery with a visit to Zilukha Nunnery.
You drive through terraced lands and picturesque villages for around four to five hours through sightseeing at Thimphu to Paro, which is 115 km. After entering Paro, start by sightseeing Rinpung Dzong also referred to as Paro Dzong, one of the historic fortresses in Bhutan, its massive walls piled up high, and its peaceful inner courtyard.
Max. Altitude: 2,200m/7,218ft. Paro
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 04: Paro Sightseeing & Tiger’s Nest Hike
The highlight of your short Bhutan tour package is taking a hike to Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger Nest. Horses and ponies are also available during the hiking trail. The path leads to the pine woods and then up to the monastery on the cliff at a height of approximately 3,120 m above sea level.
The round-trip walk is about 7–10 km and usually takes 3–5 hours depending on the chosen path and pace. At the viewpoint, you will stop for tea and savor panoramic scenes of Paro Valley.
There are prayer halls and sacred caves in the monastery. You then descend to one of the most ancient temples in Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang, which is thought to have been built in the 7th century. Paro town is the culmination of the day with free time.
Activity: 3–5 hrs trek
Max. Altitude: 3,120m/10,236ft. Tiger’s Nest Hike
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 05: Departure from Paro
Spend your time having a leisurely breakfast in Paro. You can go to the local market and buy some souvenirs. Your guide then takes you to Paro Airport, where you board your next flight. You will return home with brilliant recollections of beautiful valleys, high monasteries, and Bhutanese hospitality.
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Detail Information about Short Bhutan Tour Package
Weather and Best Season
The weather in Bhutan depends on elevation. Central valleys are moderately climatic, with the high passes being cool even during summer. Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) is the most ideal time of the year to take a Short Bhutan tour, as there is clear weather and the skies are clear.
During spring, there are blooming rhododendrons and comfortable temperatures, and in the fall, it is crisp with great views of the mountain. Summer (June to August) is accompanied by a lot of rainfall and landslides, whereas winter (December to February) can be cold with snow high up. Overall, March–May and September–November are the best times for clear skies and festivals.
Is this trip beginner-friendly?
This itinerary is perfect for a traveler who wants a gentle start to Bhutan. Travels are mostly made by road with little hiking, i.e., to Tiger Nest. Guides promote slow walking and offer a walking stick to make the climb accessible to people with moderate fitness.
Trips by road are not very long, and the lodging is good. Since the tour remains at elevations less than 3,200 m, you will have sufficient time to take a break, even for first-time visitors, who adapt with ease. This Short Bhutan tour is perfect for beginners and families since it consists of cultural visits and light trekking.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is experienced when travelers rise too fast to altitudes above 3,000-3,500 m. The majority of individuals experience mild symptoms if they are rushed to high altitudes. In this short Bhutan tour, the highest point is the Tiger’s Nest at an altitude of 3,120m, which is high enough for some people to feel mild AMS symptoms.
To minimize the risk, drink a lot of water, no alcohol, and walk at a slow pace on hikes. In case you feel a headache or dizzy, tell your guide and sleep. You can spend some days in Paro and Thimphu before you make higher treks, to help you acclimatize.
Permits & Regulations
There is a high-value, low-impact tourism policy in Bhutan. Tourists are required to travel using a licensed tour operator who arranges their visa, transport, and guide arrangements.
All visitors pay a Sustainable Development Fee of US $100 per individual per night, which helps provide free education and health care to citizens. Younger children aged 6-12 years get a 50 percent discount, and children under 5 years are free. On top of the SDF, you are required to pay a visa fee of US$40.
Travelling alone is not permitted, so hire a licensed guide. There are monasteries and trekking paths that need permits, and your operator will get you one. Make sure your passport will have a minimum of six months to your journey, and bring a copy of your vital documents.
Health & Safety
Bhutan is considered to be one of the safest states in Asia. Violent crime is rare, but petty crime occurs every now and then, particularly pick-pocketing and bag snatching in the busy market.
Carry your valuables, and book the tours with the certified tour operators. Always be careful of drink spiking and keep a check on your drink. The monsoon season may be subject to flooding and landslides, so be careful and obey any instructions given by the local authorities.
Above 2,500 m altitude sickness may be a factor; take care of your health during trekking. Bring insect repellent, and stay in insect-proof rooms to prevent insect borne diseases. In other places besides Thimphu, there are few medical facilities, thus appropriate travel insurance covering medical evacuation.
Attractions
This tour highlights a number of attractions that express the heritage and nature of the country. The national memorial Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, and Tashichho Dzong can be found in Thimphu and are the representatives of various epochs in Bhutanese history.
The Dochu La Pass offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas with 108 white chortens constructed to pay tribute to the dead. Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang shed a little light on the life of the Bhutanese monastic life and on colourful legends.
You see two sites of architectural marvels in Paro, Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang. The best experience is hiking to Tiger Nest with an impressive view of the landscape and spiritual satisfaction.
Culture & Traditions
The culture of Bhutan is based on Buddhism, which is expressed through its architecture, rituals, and day-to-day life. The gho and kira are national costumes worn by men and women, respectively.
Gross National Happiness of Bhutan emphasizes well-being instead of material wealth. You will see prayer flags moving on hillsides, monks chanting in the temples, and the villagers celebrating the local festivals as you travel around on your Short Bhutan tour.
The food along the trail includes Bhutanese cuisine such as ema datshi (chili and cheese), butter tea, and red rice. While meat dishes are commonly served, it is important to note that Bhutan bans animal slaughter domestically, so most meat is imported. It is important to take off shoes before visiting religious places, and seek permission before taking photographs of people. Adherence to local culture gives a valuable attachment to the traditions of Bhutan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Short Bhutan tour package?
The Short Bhutan tour package includes accommodation, meals, licensed guides, all transport, permits, visas, and the Sustainable Development Fee, but does not include International flights.
When is the best time to travel on a short Bhutan tour?
The best seasons to visit Bhutan are spring and autumn. Such seasons possess comfortable weather conditions with clear skies, good for sightseeing and trekking.
Do I need a visa for a Bhutan tour package?
Yes, your tour operator will arrange the visa for you, and it costs US$40.
How difficult is the hike to Tiger’s Nest?
The hike to Tiger’s Nest is moderate, so guides will advise you to take it slow and steady, and there are resting points along the hike up.
What is the highest altitude on this trip?
Tiger Nest at 3,120 m is the highest peak of the trip, and most of the trip stays below 2,800 m.
Can children join the short Bhutan tour?
Yes, children can participate and even enjoy a discount on the Sustainable Development Fee and daily tariff.
Is Bhutan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s safe, but Bhutan requires you to travel with a licensed guide and operator.
What should I pack for this Bhutan tour package?
You must pack layers for changing temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellents, UV protection, a first-aid kit, and modest clothing for temple visits.
Are there any cultural etiquette rules I should know?
Dress modestly, take off shoes while entering temples, and ask permission before taking pictures in a religious area.
Can I customize my short Bhutan tour package?
Yes, we customize your tour according to your preferences.
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- Your safety, our no 1 priority
- Best price guarantee
- Experienced & dedicated team
- Easy booking, no hidden charge
- You can customize this trip
Talk to Travel Expert
Samundra Rimal (+977-9843127084)