Bhutan Highlights: 7-Day Cultural & Scenic Tour

range during your descent—on a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest and other towering peaks. After clearing immigration, you’ll be warmly greeted by your Dream Tibet Travel representative, who will assist you with your transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, located at an altitude of 2,320 meters (7,656 ft). The scenic drive to Thimphu takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

En route, make a stop at Tamchhog Lhakhang, a temple built by the great Tibetan saint and bridge builder Thang Thong Gyalpo. Situated across the river, the site is known for its historic iron chain bridge and spiritual ambiance.

Altitude: 2320m / 7656ft | Drive time: 1h 30min

• Arrive at Paro Airport and meet your Dream Tibet Travel representative.
  
• Scenic drive to Thimphu with possible panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest (weather permitting).
  
• Visit Tamchhog Lhakhang, a temple built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet.
  
• Stop at Kuenselcholing View Point (Buddha Point) to admire the valley and the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan.
  
• Explore Memorial Chorten, a tribute to the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
  
• Visit Tashichho Dzong, the Fortress of Glorious Religion, housing the throne room, secretariat, and central monk body.
  
• Evening stroll and relaxation in Thimphu.

  Overnight: Thimphu

Morning: Begin your day with a hike to Cheri Monastery, located within the Dodina and Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary. This 1-hour round-trip hike takes you to Cheri Goemba (Cheri Dorji Dhen), a sacred site built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620, where he established the first monk body of Bhutan. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, Yellow-browed Tit, and Ultramarine Flycatcher, among other bird species.

Morning hike to Cheri Monastery, located within the Dodina and Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary (1 hr round trip).
Explore the Paper Factory, preserving Bhutanese handmade paper traditions.

Visit the Weekend Market, a colorful hub of local trade held Friday to Sunday.

Explore the Bhutan Craft Bazaar, featuring high-quality handicrafts, wood and clay utensils, and traditional art.

Evening at leisure in Thimphu.
Overnight: Thimphu

Morning: Begin your drive towards Gangtey, passing through the Dochula Pass (3140m / 10362ft), which offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, particularly on clear winter days. The beauty of this pass is heightened by the presence of the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a set of 108 stupas built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the eldest Queen of Bhutan.

Altitude: 2800m / 9240ft | Drive time: 5 hours

• Drive towards Gangtey, stopping at Dochula Pass (3140m) to enjoy Himalayan panoramas and 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.
  
• Explore the Phobjikha Valley, home to the wintering black-necked cranes.
  

Visit Gangtey Goemba, a 17th-century monastery perched on the slopes of the valley.
Overnight: Gangtey

Morning Start your day with a visit to Gangtey Goemba (Monastery), located on the slopes of the Phobjikha Valley. This 17th-century monastery, also known as Gangtey Monastery, is one of Bhutan’s most significant religious sites. It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley and the majestic Himalayas. The Phobjikha Valley itself is a serene and peaceful area, especially known for being the winter home of the Black-Necked Cranes. These rare and graceful birds migrate here from Tibet, finding refuge in the valley’s milder winter climate. After visiting the monastery, enjoy the tranquil beauty of the valley, which offers a perfect opportunity for reflection and relaxation.

Altitude: 2800m / 9240ft | Drive time: 2 hours

• Visit Gangtey Goemba if missed on the previous day.
  
• Hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), a 30-minute gentle hike across scenic fields. Learn about local beliefs involving phallic symbols for protection.
  Overnight: Punakha

Morning: Visit Punakha Dzong

Begin your day with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and historically significant fortresses in Bhutan. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it is strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). The dzong served as the seat of the Bhutanese government and the residence of the kings until the time of the second king. Architecturally stunning, with whitewashed walls and intricately carved wooden details, it remains an important symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual and political history.

Altitude: 2280m / 7524ft | Drive time: 4 hours

• Visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, located between Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers.
  
• Drive to Paro.
  
• Visit Rimpung Dzong, a fortress known as “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” dating back to 1644.
  
• Visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest sacred temples built in the 7th century.
  Overnight: Paro

After breakfast, begin your unforgettable hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a dramatic cliffside about 800 meters (2,640 feet) above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark. The monastery holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the 8th-century tantric master, flew to this location on the back of a tigress and meditated here. The hike, which takes approximately five hours round trip, includes a mix of gentle slopes and steeper, rocky paths. For those who prefer assistance, horse rides are available for the uphill journey (at an additional cost of US$25 per person).

Hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched 800m above the valley. Approx. 5 hours round trip. Option to ride a horse: USD 25/person.

Visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, enjoy local hospitality and optionally take a hot stone bath (USD 25/person).

Evening stroll in Paro town to observe local life.
Overnight: Paro

After an early breakfast at the hotel, your guide and driver will accompany you on the short drive to Paro International Airport. As you complete your exit formalities, your escort will assist you with luggage and check-in, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

Take one last look at the stunning Bhutanese landscape before boarding your flight, carrying with you cherished memories of the peaceful monasteries, warm hospitality, and majestic Himalayan scenery.