9 Day Bhutan Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking mountain landscapes. This comprehensive 9-day itinerary takes you through Bhutan’s most spectacular valleys, from the cultural heart of Thimphu to the sacred sites of Punakha and the pristine wilderness of Gangtey. The tour culminates with the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery and a special day exploring the hidden Haa Valley.
Highlights:
✔ Cultural Immersion: Visit majestic dzongs, sacred monasteries, and traditional markets
✔ Natural Wonders: Experience dramatic Himalayan passes, glacial valleys, and protected ecosystems
✔ Spiritual Encounters: Receive blessings at ancient temples and witness monk ceremonies
✔ Active Adventure: Hike to cliffside monasteries and through pristine nature trails
✔ Local Experiences: Enjoy authentic Bhutanese cuisine, hot stone baths, and cultural performances
Key Destinations:
Thimphu: Bhutan’s charming capital blending tradition and modernity
Punakha: Historic dzong at the river confluence and famous fertility temple
Gangtey: Pristine glacial valley and important Buddhist monastery
Paro: Home to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark – Tiger’s Nest
Haa Valley: Remote alpine valley opened to tourism only in 2002
Sketched itinerary
- Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 2. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 3. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing | 76 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
- Day 4. Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey sightseeing | 75 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3000 m.
- Day 5. Gangtey – Trongsa sightseeing – Bumthang | 156 km | Drive: 5 hours | Altitude: 2600 m.
- Day 6. Bumthang sightseeing | Altitude: 2600 m.
- Day 7. Bumthang – Paro sightseeing | By Mountain Flight | 25 minutes | Altitude: 2200 m.
- Day 8. Paro sightseeing – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | 4 hours.
- Day 9. Paro – Departure
Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Thimphu Sightseeing
Upon arrival in Paro, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. En route, stop at Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple built by Thangtong Gyalpo. In Thimphu, visit the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong. Explore the city’s streets, handicraft markets, and cafés.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
Visit the National Folk Heritage Museum, Institute for Zorig Chusum, and Royal Textile Academy. See Bhutan’s national animal at the Motithang Takin Preserve and explore the Centenary Farmers Market. End the day at Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress.
Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha Sightseeing
Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,100m), enjoying views of the eastern Himalayas. Visit the Druk Wangyal Chortens, Punakha Dzong, Suspension Bridge, and Chimi Lhakhang, the “Temple of Fertility.”
Day 4: Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey Sightseeing
Stop at Wangdue Phodrang Dzong before heading to Gangtey. Visit the Gangtey Monastery and Black-Necked Crane Center. Take a scenic walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, surrounded by pristine landscapes.
Day 5: Gangtey – Trongsa Sightseeing – Bumthang
Drive to Trongsa, visiting the stunning Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest fortress, and the Tower of Trongsa Museum. Continue to Bumthang, passing through scenic valleys and high mountain passes.
Day 6: Bumthang Sightseeing
Explore Bumthang’s sacred sites, including Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and Tamshing Monastery. Visit the Swiss Farm, known for local cheese and honey. Stroll through Chamkhar town and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Day 7: Bumthang – Paro (Mountain Flight) & Sightseeing
Take a short mountain flight from Bumthang to Paro, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of Bhutan’s landscapes. Explore Kyichu Lhakhang, Paro Dzong, and the National Museum.
Day 8: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most iconic site. The 4-hour trek leads to the sacred monastery perched on a cliffside. After descending, enjoy a traditional hot stone bath or visit a local farmhouse.
Day 9: Paro – Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure, concluding your journey through Bhutan.
Included in this package
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty & taxes
- English speaking tour guide
- Tour vehicle and driver
- 3-star accommodation (twin sharing)
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D)
- Airport transfers
- Bottled water during tours
- Entry fees to parks and monuments
- Driver & Vehicle (SUV)
Not Included in this package
- Flights to and fro Bhutan
- Alcoholic Beverages
- 4 or 5 star accommodation
- Tips for guide and driver
- Not in Included list
9 Day Bhutan Tour
- 9 Days/ 8 Nights
Included in this package
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty & taxes
- English speaking tour guide
- Tour vehicle and driver
- 3-star accommodation (twin sharing)
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D)
- Airport transfers
- Bottled water during tours
- Entry fees to parks and monuments
- Driver & Vehicle (SUV)
Not Included in this package
- Flights to and fro Bhutan
- Alcoholic Beverages
- 4 or 5 star accommodation
- Tips for guide and driver
- Not in Included list