Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Paro - Welcome to the Dragon Kingdom
Arrive at Paro International Airport (2,250m). Meet your Silverpine guide and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a traditional welcome ceremony with butter tea. Evening stroll through charming Paro town and visit a local farmhouse for dinner.
Tiger's Nest Trek - The Sacred Clifftop Monastery
Today's highlight is the iconic hike to Taktsang Palphug (Tiger's Nest) perched dramatically on a cliff face at 3,120m. This sacred site is where Guru Rinpoche meditated for three years. The hike takes 4-5 hours round trip with options for pony ride or partial hike. Visit the temple and soak in spectacular views.
Paro Cultural Treasures → Thimphu
Morning visit to Ta Dzong (National Museum) housed in a historic watchtower, and Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels). Walk across the traditional cantilever bridge. Scenic 1-hour drive to Thimphu (2,350m). Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples dating to 7th century.
Thimphu - Capital of Happiness
Full day exploring Bhutan's charming capital. Visit the magnificent Buddha Dordenma (169ft bronze statue), Tashichho Dzong (seat of government), National Memorial Chorten, and the Motithang Takin Preserve. Browse the Weekend Market (if visiting Fri-Sun) and visit the School of Traditional Arts to see artisans at work.
Dochula Pass → Punakha Valley
Drive over spectacular Dochula Pass (3,100m) with 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and stunning Himalayan views on clear days. Descend to subtropical Punakha Valley (1,250m). Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers - considered Bhutan's most beautiful fortress. Evening at leisure.
Divine Madman & Traditional Wellness
Morning visit to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman (Lama Drukpa Kunley). Afternoon hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten for panoramic valley views. Evening experience a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath ( Dotsho ) - perfect for relaxation after the trek.
Farewell Bhutan
Morning scenic drive back to Paro. Optional last-minute shopping for Bhutanese souvenirs - textiles, handicrafts, postal stamps. Traditional Bhutanese farewell lunch. Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight with memories to last a lifetime.
About this journey
Tour Overview
2026 Departure Dates
Guaranteed Departures:
- March 15-21, 2026 (Spring rhododendrons)
- April 5-11, 2026 (Paro Tshechu period - book early!)
- October 3-9, 2026 (Peak autumn season)
- November 7-13, 2026 (Festival season)
Private Tours: Available year-round on dates of your choice
SDF Rate Update: The reduced SDF of $100/night (instead of $200) has been extended until August 31, 2027 - making 2026 travel more affordable!
Tour Highlights
- Hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang Palphug)
- Witness the world's largest sitting Buddha at Thimphu
- Cross the spectacular Dochula Pass with 108 memorial chortens
- Visit Punakha Dzong - the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan
- Receive a traditional Buddhist blessing ceremony
- Experience authentic Bhutanese hot stone bath
- Try your hand at traditional archery
Pricing
Indicative price range
Per person, land package + SDF. Final quote confirms hotels, vehicle, and season.
Assumes comfort hotels, shared guide & vehicle, double rooms.
INR quotes available. Indian nationals: ₹1,200/night SDF (not $100). Land cost follows Nu. guide / vehicle / hotel bands.
USD range is indicative all-in land: guide, private vehicle, comfort hotels, meals, $100/night SDF & permits. Flights extra.
What's Included
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Private vehicle and driver (Nu. 5,000-9,000/day class)
- Comfort hotels (Nu. 4,000-9,000/room/night)
- Meals as per itinerary
- SDF and permit fees
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Luxury hotel upgrades (quoted separately)
Share your dates and hotel style — we confirm the final quote.
What's Included
- 6 nights boutique accommodation (3-4 star)
- All meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
- English-speaking certified Bhutanese guide
- All private transportation in comfortable vehicle
- All airport transfers
- Bhutan Tourism Council Visa fee
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) - $100 per person per night
- All monument entrance fees
- Tiger's Nest monastery entry fee
- Hot stone bath experience
- Traditional welcome ceremony with butter tea
- Daily bottled water
- Sleeping bag for Tiger's Nest (if camping)
What's Not Included
- International flight to/from Paro
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pony ride at Tiger's Nest ($25 extra)
- Items of personal nature
Where You'll Stay
Experience Bhutan's finest boutique hotels and heritage properties, carefully selected for comfort, authenticity, and stunning locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What Our Travelers Say
"Every detail felt considered — from Tiger's Nest pacing to quiet evenings in the valleys."
"Licensed guides who actually know the temples — not a rushed checklist tour."
"Clear SDF-inclusive quote and seamless WhatsApp support before we flew."
