Explore Bhutan Tours and Treks
- 4 days
- moderate
- Up to 12
- Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Discover the last Himalayan kingdom with our local team through cliff-side monasteries, fortress dzongs, and traditional valleys.
At a glance
Trip overview
We design our Bhutan journeys to offer a grounded look into the last Himalayan kingdom. From the valley floors of Paro and Thimphu to the fortress dzongs that guard ancient trade routes, our itineraries reflect our deep local connections. We travel alongside licensed Bhutanese guides and private drivers, ensuring every transit and hotel stay is managed smoothly.
This region suits travellers interested in living culture, architecture, and moderate valley walks rather than high-altitude mountaineering. We balance cultural site visits with manageable hikes, such as the ascent to Tiger's Nest monastery. Throughout the journey, we observe how daily life revolves around Buddhist traditions, agricultural fields, and community festivals.
Our logistics account for Bhutan's specific tourism framework, including the Sustainable Development Fee and visa clearances managed ahead of arrival. We handle the paperwork internally so you can focus on the valleys, rivers, and mountain vistas.
Why this trek
Trip highlights
Tiger's Nest Hike
We climb the steep switchbacks through pine forests to reach the cliff-side Taktsang Palphug Monastery overlooking the Paro valley.
Fortress Dzongs
We walk through historic administrative fortresses featuring intricate woodwork, murals, and central courtyards.
Local Team
Our licensed Bhutanese guides and private drivers accompany us throughout every transfer and valley excursion.
Valley Exploration
We traverse Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha to observe traditional farming settlements and river confluences.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu
Meals: B
Day 1
Arrival in Paro and Transfer to Thimphu
Meals: B
We touch down at Paro International Airport, where our local guide and private driver meet us for the transfer to Thimphu. The drive follows the Wang Chhu river downstream through terraced fields and small settlements. Upon arrival in the capital, we settle into our hotel and take an initial walk around the central market area.
Day 2
Thimphu Cultural Sites and Drive to Punakha
Meals: B / L / D
Day 2
Thimphu Cultural Sites and Drive to Punakha
Meals: B / L / D
We spend our morning visiting key cultural landmarks in Thimphu before crossing the Dochula Pass at 3,140 m. On clear days, the pass offers sweeping views of the eastern Himalayan peaks. Afterwards, we descend into the warmer Punakha valley to walk across the suspension bridge toward Punakha Dzong.
Day 3
Punakha to Paro via Chimi Lhakhang
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3
Punakha to Paro via Chimi Lhakhang
Meals: B / L / D
Following breakfast, we walk across agricultural fields to reach Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple situated on a rounded hillock. We then retrace our route over the Dochula Pass back down to the Paro valley, where we check into our hotel and prepare for the following day's hike.
Day 4
Tiger's Nest Monastery Hike and Departure
Meals: B
Day 4
Tiger's Nest Monastery Hike and Departure
Meals: B
We make an early start for the hike up to Taktsang Palphug, known as Tiger's Nest. The trail climbs steadily through pine woods to a viewpoint cafeteria before reaching the monastery complex built into the sheer rock face. After descending back to the valley floor, we transfer to Paro airport for our onward flight.
Inclusions
What’s included
Included
- Licensed Bhutanese guide
- Bhutan visa and permit handling
- Hotel accommodation throughout
- Private car and driver
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Not included
- International airfare to and from Paro
- Travel insurance covering medical evacuation
- Personal expenses such as laundry and bar bills
- Tipping for guides and drivers
Before you go
Good to know
Visa and Permits
Bhutanese visas and regional permits are processed in advance through our office. We require a clear passport scan to submit your paperwork before arrival.
Best Time to Visit
We operate these tours primarily during spring (March to May) for rhododendron blooms and autumn (September to November) for clear mountain skies and traditional tshechus.
Transportation
All ground travel within Bhutan is conducted using private cars or vans driven by experienced local drivers familiar with mountain roads.
Currency and Payments
The local currency is the Ngultrum, pegged to the Indian Rupee. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels in Thimphu and Paro, but carrying some cash is necessary for rural purchases.
Route
Route overview
Altitude
Altitude profile
Pack list
What to pack
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Footwear
Required for uneven paths and dzong stone steps.
Layered fleece jacketEssential
Clothing
Mountain valley evenings can drop significantly in temperature.
DaypackEssential
Clothing
For carrying water and extra layers during daily walks.
Valid passportEssential
Documents
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Clothing
High UV exposure in Himalayan valley elevations.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Camping
To reduce plastic waste during our valley tours.
Personal first aid kitEssential
Safety
Including basic medications and blister plasters.
Rain jacketEssential
Clothing
Useful during sudden mountain weather shifts.
Paperwork
Permits & paperwork
We arrange
Handled in Kathmandu — nothing for you to do.Bhutan Tourist Visa
VisaMandatory clearance processed prior to arrival.
Sustainable Development Fee Permit
PermitGovernment tourism levy included in our tour packages.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How do we obtain our Bhutan visa?
We process your Bhutanese visa clearance letter through our local office before you fly. The actual visa stamp is issued upon arrival at Paro International Airport.
What is the physical fitness level required?
Our cultural tours involve moderate walking on uneven stone paths and steps, most notably during the hike up to Tiger's Nest monastery.
Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout your stay in Bhutan, typically served at your hotel or local restaurants.
What vehicle do we use for transfers?
We provide a private car or van with an experienced local driver for all inter-city transfers and daily sightseeing excursions.
Can we customize our itinerary?
We can tailor the length and daily stops to include additional valleys such as Phobjikha or Bumthang depending on your travel dates.
What currency should we bring?
US Dollars or Euros can be easily exchanged in Thimphu and Paro. Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in denomination notes below 500.
Still have a question? Message us and our trip planner will reply within a working day.
Book your trip
Pick any start date on the calendar. We block the trip out over 4 days and confirm the plan with you before payment.
Start dateTrip runs
Ready to book Explore Bhutan Tours and Treks?
Talk to a Himalaya Treks planner about departure dates, group discounts, or a customised private departure.