Trip Name: 07 Nights 08 Days (FLY IN FLY OUT TOUR)
Duration: 08 days
Grade: Easy to Exotic
Tour Type: Group Tour
Activities: Natural and cultural sightseeing
Transportation: Private vehicle
Max Elevation:
Culture: Bhutanese Culture, Buddhist
Route: Paro – Thimphu – Trongsa - Bumthang - Punakha - Paro
Best Season:
Bhutan is the small kingdom also known as the land of Thunder Dragon which is nestled in the lap of pristine nature and the Himalayas. Besides spectacular landscapes, the unique and diverse culture of Bhutan binds people together and sets them apart from other big neighboring countries. This landlocked country is also home to unspoiled nature and unclimbed mountains ranging from 3,000 m on the southern ridge and 7,000+ m on the northern ridge.
This 7 nights 8 days Bhutan tour is designed with the perspective of unlocking the hidden natural and cultural treasures of Bhutan. The 7-night 8-day Bhutan tour package gives you a detailed cultural and natural insight into Paro, Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumpthan, and Punakha. Weather permitting, get an opportunity to drive west via DochuLa Pass (3,080 m) to have a spectacular view of the Himalayas above (7000m) elevation. During the Bhutan tour, get countless opportunities to experience the fascination of pure and exotic landmarks, ancient fortresses, monasteries, cultivated meadows, and cultural hamlets.
Book our Bhutan express tour 7 nights 8 days for an amazing Bhutanese Adventure with Dream Bhutan. Dream Bhutan is a team of experienced tour, trek, and mountaineering experience who have specialized in Tibet and Bhutan tours for more than 14 years.
1) Enjoy an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Paro with scenic views of the Himalayas including Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga.
2) Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
3) Tashichho Dzong, fortresses of Glorious Religion.
4) Memorial Chorten, is a memorial for the third king of the country.
5) Visit the National Folk Heritage Museum and National Textile Museum.
6) Visit Zilukha Nunnery, a house in Drubthob Goemba (monastery).
7) Takin Sanctuary is the sanctuary of Bhutan’s national animal.
8) Paper Factory, a traditional paper-making place.
9) Sangaygang View Point (Telecom Tower).
10) DochuLa Pass Sightseeing(3,080 m), with stunning Himalayan views of Masagang, Tsendagang, Gangkar Puensum (The highest peak in Bhutan), etc.
11) Chendebji Chorten (Stupa) patterned after Swayambhunath in Kathmandu.
12) Bumthang Valley Tour and explore Tamzhing Goemba, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing, the Swiss farm area, fruit and beer factory.
13) Visit Chimi Lhakhang also known as the fertility temple.
14) Visit the National Museum and Rinpung Dzong.
15) Hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery (Paro Taktsang.
Day 1: Fly Paro, drive to Thimphu (L/D)
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing (B/L/D)
Day 3: Thimphu - Trongsa (6 – 7 hours) (B/L/D)
Day 4: Trongsa – Bumthang (2 hours 30 minutes)
Day 5: Bumthang sightseeing and drive to Punakha (6 – 7 hours)
Day 6: Punakha to Paro (4 hours)
Day 7: In Paro (B/L/D)
Day 8: Drive to Paro airport for onward flight to Kathmandu (B)
There is no perfect time to visit Bhutan as with each season, there are full of surprises for us to unfold. Each four-season has a tale of its own to share with us. Bhutan with its diverse flora and fauna is waiting to be explored by you. And with the desired season, you’ll experience Bhutan’s nature along with cultural beauty.
Spring: As spring arrives between March to May, the weather is dry, making it perfect for people to soothe their eyes along with outdoor activities. During this season, rhododendron flowers bloom, filling the surroundings with vibrant colors. The skies are usually clear with no clouds, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Not to mention spring also brings one of the greatest cultural events in Bhutan when they celebrate their Paro Tsechu festival with joy and smiles on their faces. You can also find traditional dances, colorful dresses, and the spiritual energy of Bhutanese culture. It’s the best time for those who want to experience Bhutan's natural beauty and rich culture.
Autumn: With autumn stretching between September to November, it provides you another reason to visit Bhutan back again. The weather is humid with clear blue skies and cool temperatures, making it comfortable for exploring or trekking. You can even see the white mountain ranges from your stay. Autumn is also when Bhutan celebrates the Thimphu Tsechu, one of the country’s largest and most famous festivals. The festival features vibrant dances and performances, drawing both locals and tourists. This season provides a mix of beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences, making it one of the best times to visit Bhutan.
Winter: As winter arrives from December to February in Bhutan, it brings cooler temperatures, especially in the higher regions, but the clear skies make for great views of the Himalayas. Though some trekking trails may be closed due to snow, the winter months are peaceful and less crowded. Winter also allows you to witness Bumthang's Ura Yakchoe Festival, making it a beautiful sight with its religious ceremonies and cultural dances. If you don’t mind the cold and are looking for a more diverse, crowd-free experience, winter is a good time to visit.
Summer: Summer in Bhutan which is from June to August, brings the monsoon season with its rainy charm. With heavy rains, the trails tend to be slippery along with occasional landslides due to rainfall, so traveling can be challenging. However, the dense greenery and blooming flowers make Bhutan incredibly beautiful during this season. Summer also brings the Haa Summer Festival, where you can experience Bhutanese rural life, traditional customs, and local foods. This is a great time for those who enjoy quieter surroundings and a more authentic experience.
Bhutan’s culture and community showcase Vajrayana Buddhism, which shapes the everyday life of Bhutanese people. Their devotion to religious offerings, sacred festivals, and intricate murals and symbols are found in monasteries, dzongs, and homes. Traditional folk songs and dance are an essential part of their culture. They perform their folk songs and dances at Tsechus festivals and celebrate them joyfully. Bhutan is rich in art and architecture which reflects its spirituality and cultural heritage. Every structure and every design of monasteries or dzongs are built using unique techniques like nail-free construction.
The Bhutanese community is highly rooted in spirituality, harmony, and respect for nature which preserves its traditions in the face of modern influences. The Zorig Chosum (13 traditional arts and crafts) highlights Bhutan's artistic heritage. Bhutan’s major festivals such as Paro Tsechu, Thimu Tsechu, Punakha Drubchen & Tshechu, etc are celebrated with colorful dances, rituals, and cultural performances. Traditional music and dances bring together locals and tourists to celebrate. Bhutanese people have a close connection between religion and daily life, which generates a strong sense of community and cultural pride.
1) Obtain a Bhutanese visa in advance and always carry your required permits and tickets for restricted areas.
2) Always carry your packing essentials such as warm clothes for high altitude, comfortable trekking shoes, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.
3) Only Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) or Indian rupees are acceptable and have limited ATMS, so carry cash.
4) You should always dress modestly when visiting monasteries, remove shoes before entering monasteries, and avoid public displays of affection.
5) Don’t take photos of religious sites without obtaining permission.
6) Don’t forget to visit Must-visit attractions of Bhutan such as Tiger’s Nest, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, Thimphu, and Paro.
7) Try their famous local cuisine Ema Datshi (chili cheese), momos, and butter tea.
8) You should plan your trip around Tsechus for an authentic cultural experience.
Day 1:Fly Paro, drive to Thimphu (L/D)
Fly onboard Druk Air to Paro, Bhutan. On a clear day, the panoramic views of the Himalayas are sensational, including Everest, but particularly exciting is the approach through the Bhutanese foothills and the landing, including a few steep turns to land at the tiny airstrip of Paro. In Paro, you will be received by the representative from Dream Tibet Travel and transferred to Thimphu which takes an hour. Afternoon visits Tashichho Dzong, The memorial chorten, handicraft stores and emporium, and the city of Thimphu. Overnight Hotel Riverview, Thimphu.
Highlights of the Day:
Tashichho Dzong:
This fortress serves as the office of the King, ministers, and various government organizations. It also is the headquarters for the central monastic body of Bhutan. Bhutan's spiritual leader Je-Khenpo and the monks of both Thimphu and Punakha reside here during summer. It is also the venue for the Thimphu Festival in the fall season.
Memorial Chorten:
This white and tall landmark of Thimphu was built in 1974 in memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded as the Father of Modern Bhutan. It is a four-story tall white building, containing statues and iconography of deities from complex tantric teachings, and serves as an important place of worship for Thimphu residents, as well as from other parts of the country.
Day 2:Thimphu Sightseeing (B/L/D)
There are a good many things to see in the capital which has a very relaxed, laid-back feel about it. Thimphu is relatively small having a population of approximately 90,000 people and the streets are wide and tree-lined.
Early in the morning, you can take a self-guided 15-minute walk (or you can do it with the guide later for your convenience) from the hotel to the Memorial Chorten, a shrine built in memory of the late king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Many Bhutanese people gather here to pray every day.
Later in the day, start sightseeing with a visit to a Nunnery on the outskirts of Thimphu. You will then visit the Changangkha Lhakhang (temple) and see how paper is made from the daphne plant with cosmos flower petals and other plants.
At the end of the day, we may also pay a visit to the great Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan's administrative and religious center. Overnight at hotel, Thimphu
Highlights of the Day:
Zilukha Nunnery:
Is housed in Drubthob Goemba (monastery). There are about 70 nuns who live and pray every day in the monastery. There are good views of Tashichho Dzong, the Golf course, and upper Thimphu.
Takin Sanctuary:
Takin (Budorcas taxicolor) has been chosen as the national animal of Bhutan based both on its uniqueness and its association with the country's history and mythology. It is said that Divine Madman, a popular saint is said to have created it with his magical power at a large congregation of devotees. It resembles a cow from the back and a goat from the front, and it continues to befuddle taxonomists, who cannot quite relate to other animals.
Paper Factory:
Traditional papers were made from the daphne plant, using simple methods. Like rice papers, these papers are said to last longer.
Sangaygang View Point (Telecom Tower):
There's a wonderful view of Thimphu Valley from the hillside below the telecommunications tower (elevation 2685m), high above the town at the end of a road that branches off from the approach to the youth center. The complex also houses the broadcasting studios of Bhutan Television. Don't photograph the telecommunications installation, but the valley is worth a few snaps. The area is known as Sangaygang and it becomes a lover's lane late at night.
Day 3 : Thimphu - Trongsa (6 – 7 hours) (B/L/D)
In the morning you drive to Punakha, an old winter capital of Bhutan. En route, stop at Dochula Pass, 10,000ft/3,048m to view the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan's highest mountain, Gangkar Punsum, 24,770ft/7,550m. The road then drops down through varied –ever-changing forests, finally emerging into the highly cultivated Punakha valley. Continue driving down the valley to the town of Wangdiphodrang. Here again, there is a very large fortress built in the shape of a sleeping bull. Our road gradually winds its way up towards the Pele La Pass at 11,152ft, where we make stops for views of the snow-clad peaks, including that of Bhutan’s sacred peak Mt. Chomolhari. Possibly, your picnic lunch is planned at Chendebji Chorten (Stupa) patterned after Swayambhunath in Kathmandu. It is a popular picnic lunch and pilgrimage for Bhutanese driving east-west roads.
On arrival in Trongsa, you may visit the inner courtyard of historical Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa is a very popular place with the largest Dzong in Bhutan and certainly one of the most impressive ones. It was from here that the present royal family emerged as the most powerful force at the beginning of this century.
Overnight in, Trongsa
Highlights of the Day:
DochuLa Pass Sightseeing (3,080 m):
The DochuLa Pass is a mountain pass that comes under the Bhutan Historical Sites tour. It is in the snow-covered Himalayas within Bhutan on the road from Thimpu to Punakha where 108 memorial chortens of Stupas are built.
Chendebji Chorten (Stupa):
Chendebji Chorten (Stupa) patterned after Swayambhunath in Kathmandu. It is a popular picnic lunch and pilgrimage for Bhutanese driving east-west roads.
Pele La Pass at 11,152ft:
Pele La Pass at 11,152ft, where we make stops for views of the snow-clad peaks, including that of Bhutan’s sacred peak Mt. Chomolhari.
Day 4:Trongsa – Bumthang (2 hours 30 minutes)
After breakfast in the hotel, drive across the Yutong La 11,234'and descend eventually into the valley of Chumey, the first of four Bumthang valleys. Here we will visit the Palace used primarily by the second King as his summer residence, and a hike for about 15 minutes brings us to the Prakar monastery, followed by a visit to Yathra Weaving centers (a Colourful wool weaving). Then we’ll drive onto Jakar, the center of Bumthang valleys. Bumthang valley is one of the most sacred in the kingdom and innumerable legends surround the area. It is here that the kings were cremated and the present royal families trace their ancestry back to a famous saint called Pema Lingpa, who was also a smith in Jakar Township.
Afternoon visit the Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, tamshing, the Swiss farm area, fruit and beer factory (optional – sometimes does not allow permit),
Total drive of about 2 hours 30 minutes hours. Overnight at Mipham Guest House, Bumthang.
Highlights of the Day:
Prakar Monastery:
Prakar Monastery is considered an ancient and significant Buddhist monastery renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage and is also considered a centuries-old temple.
Yathra Weaving Center:
Yathra Weaving Center is a colorful wool weaving center that showcases textiles woven traditionally from sheep and yak wool. People are involved in producing textiles from wool.
Bumthang Valley:
Visit Bumthang Valley where we explore Tamzhing Goemba, Kurjey Lhakhang with Guru Rinpoche’s body imprint, Jambay Lhakhang which is one of the 108 temples built on the same day, and Jakar Dzong and Thangbi Lhakhang located in a beautiful valley.
Day 5:Bumthang sightseeing and drive to Punakha (6 – 7 hours)
After breakfast, we return to Punakha, a warm place at 1400 m. Time permitting, visit the mighty and most impressive Punakha Dzong and hike to Chimi Lhakhang – the temple of the divine madman.
Chimi Lhakhang was built by Lama Drukpa Kunley in 1499. He subdued the demoness of the Dochu la with his ‘magic thunderbolt of wisdom.’ A wooden effigy of the Lama’s thunderbolt is preserved in the Lhakhang, and childless women go to the temple to receive a wang (blessing) from the saint.
It’s a 20-minute walk across the rice fields from the road at Sopsokha to the temple. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana. There are very few monks at the temple, which is surrounded by a row of prayer wheels and some very beautiful slate carvings.
Highlights of the Day:
Punakha Dzong:
Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan's oldest, largest, and most striking fortified monasteries. It is also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness”. It is renowned for its impressive architecture and vibrant murals depicting Buddhist legends.
Chimi Lhakhang:
Chimi Lhakhang is also known as the fertility temple. It is believed that upon visiting this temple couples struggling with infertility offer prayers, and are blessed with children.
Day 6: Punakha to Paro (4 hours)
After breakfast, drive west via Dochula Pass (3,080 m). Weather permitting, enjoy views of the Bhutan Himalaya peaks above 7,000 meters. Continue driving to Paro for another 2 hours.
In the afternoon, visit the National Museum housed in an ancient watchtower, which has a fine collection of ancient Thangka paintings if time permits you O/N at the Hotel, and Rinpung Dzong, or any other sightseeing spots your guide recommends.
Overnight at Hotel
Highlights of the Day:
DochuLa Pass:
DochuLa Pass (3,080 m) is a scenic mountain pass that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bhutan Himalayas. It is famous for Druk Wangyal Chortens which was built in honor of Bhutanese soldiers.
National Museum:
The National Museum of Bhutan is a historic 17th-century watchtower that offers insights into Bhutan’s history, culture, and spiritual heritage.
Rinpung Dzong:
Rinpung Dzong means “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”. It is famous for its impressive Bhutanese architecture.
Day 7: In Paro (B/L/D)
Full-day sightseeing tour in Paro. In Paro visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) and Farm House. Overnight at the Hotel.
Highlights of the Day:
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang):
Tiger’s Nest Monastery is Bhutan’s most sacred site which is perched on a cliffside at 3,120 m in the Paro Valley. It is said that Guru Rinpoche had meditated in a cave for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours in the 8th century and flew there on the back of a tigress. Hence it was named “Tiger’s Nest”.
Day 8: Drive to Paro airport for onward flight to Kathmandu (B)
After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to Paro airport for your sensational take-off and scenic Himalayan flight past Chomolhari, Bhutan’s second-highest peak.
This is the best Bhutan tour package for 8 days where you can visit almost all Bhutan’s must-visit places such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Bumthang.
What languages are spoken in Bhutan?
There are 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, but the national language is Dzongkha. English is also used throughout Bhutan’s education system. Therefore, English is widely used and understood.
Do I need a visa for Bhutan?
Yes, every international traveler (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) requires a Bhutan visa, which can be obtained through your licensed Bhutan local tour operator.
When is the best time to go to Bhutan?
The best time to go to Bhutan is during spring which arrives in March to May and autumn which arrives in Summer to November, when the weather is favorable for site visits.
What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutan’s currency is called Nugultrum.
What is the international country code?
Bhutan’s country code is +975. Make sure you add this to the beginning of any number if calling Bhutan from abroad.
What kind of accommodation is available?
Accommodation options range from 3-star hotels to luxury resorts and traditional farm stays. It all depends on your budget and preferences.
What is included in the tour package?
The Bhutan tour package includes accommodation, meals, private transportation, and a licensed guide. Permits, and entry fees. Flight and personal expenses are excluded.
Is the Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike difficult?
Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike is moderately challenging and may take around 3-4 hours uphill. You can also hire a horse for a comfortable part of your journey.
