Highlights of Bhutan 4 Nights/5 Days
Overview
The Essence of Western Bhutan Tour is a captivating 5-day journey that immerses travelers in the heart of Bhutan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and spiritual heritage. This thoughtfully curated itinerary guides you through the vibrant towns of Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan’s unique identity.
Trip Highlights
- Cultural Exploration
- Majestic Fortresses: Visit iconic sites such as Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu and Punakha Dzong, renowned for their stunning architecture and historical significance.
- Monastic Heritage: Explore sacred sites like Changangkha Lhakhang and Chimi Lhakhang, delving into Bhutanese spirituality and traditions.
- Scenic Beauty
- Dochula Pass: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas adorned with 108 memorial stupas, an iconic stop on the journey from Thimphu to Punakha.
- Valleys and Landscapes: Enjoy the serene beauty of Paro Valley, lush with rice fields and picturesque scenery.
- Iconic Hiking Experience
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): Embark on a memorable hike to this famous cliff-side monastery, offering awe-inspiring views and a glimpse of Bhutan's rich cultural heritage.
- Traditional Hot-Stone Bath
- Experience a relaxing Bhutanese hot-stone bath in a local farmhouse, believed to have numerous health benefits and a cherished cultural tradition.
- Local Markets and Handicrafts
- Visit vibrant marketplaces such as the Craft Bazaar in Thimphu, where you can find authentic Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Price Starting From
Best Time to Travel
Fall Season (September & November)
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport. Meet and greet by our guide and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital. Altitude: 2,334m | Drive Time: ~1 hour
Check in at hote. After lunch proceed for tour to Memorial Chorten: Visit this revered stupa built in honor of King Jigme Dorji Wang chuck. Tashichho Dzong: Explore the grand fortress-monastery, the seat of government and religious events. Changangkha Lhakhang: Visit this sacred monastery offering panoramic views. Evening at leisure to explore local markets like the Craft Bazaar. Overnight at in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu – Punakha Valley via Dochula Pass
After breakfast check out and proceed to Punakha and on the way visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, a massive statue symbolizing peace and happiness. Cross Dochula Pass (3,100m) and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range and the 108 memorial stupas. Visit Druk Wangyel Lhakhang for its vibrant murals.
Arrive at Punakha. Explore Punakha Dzong, a breathtaking fortress at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Walk across the Suspension Bridge for majestic views of the river. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 3: Punakha – Paro Valley
Breakfast at hotel, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a renowned fertility temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman.” Check out and drive to Paro, check into your hotel.
Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong: Explore this iconic fortress-monastery known for its intricate architecture. National Museum of Bhutan: Discover the rich cultural heritage through various exhibits. Free time to explore Paro town for souvenirs and local art. Overnight in Paro.
Day 4: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
After breakfast, proceed for hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. The hike offers stunning mountain views and a rewarding experience at the monastery located on a cliff. Lunch can be enjoyed at the cafeteria near the monastery. Altitude: 3,120m | Hike Time: ~5 hours
Evening Hot-Stone Bath Experience: Enjoy a relaxing hot-stone bath at a local farmhouse in Paro (charges not included, approximately USD $20 per person). Overnight in Paro.
Day 5: Departure from Paro International Airport
Early breakfast or packed breakfast based on your flight schedule. Farewell guidance and transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. Reflect on your memorable journey through Bhutan as you carry home the charm and beauty of this Himalayan kingdom.
Excludes and Includes
Price Inclusions
- 01 Night accommodation in Thimpu
- 01 Night accommodation in Punakha
- 02 Nights accommodation in Paro
- Daily breakfast & dinner at hotel.
- Lunch at selected local restaurant during the tour
- Private transportation throughout the tour.
- English-speaking guide for all sightseeing.
- Entry fees to all mentioned attractions.
- Bhutan Visa
- Applicable local taxes & service fees
Price Exclusions
- Airfare: Kathmandu – Paro– Kathmandu (Fare as per availability).
- Travel insurance.
- Expenses during any rescue operation.
- Nepal re-entry visa fee.
- Alcoholic beverages & bar bills.
- All expenses of personal nature, phone calls, laundry etc.
- Gratuity to staff.
- Services of Porterage and other vehicles in between in case of landslides and other natural calamities beyond our control and expenses incurred during rescue services.
- Services not mentioned here in.
Notes
Tour Booking
- Obtaining a tourist visa for Bhutan is straightforward; applications are processed in 2-3 working days.
- Travel must be booked through a local tour operator or an international partner. The operator will handle
- Flight bookings
- Internal transport
- Accommodations
- Meal arrangements
- Coordination of a licensed tour guide
Payment Policy
- Full payment must be made before the visa can be processed, ideally two weeks before departure, via wire transfer to the tour operator’s account.
Visa Formalities
- All visitors except Indian nationals require a visa, issued from Thimphu.
- Visas are granted only to tourists booked through a licensed tour operator, who will submit the visa application.
- The visa will be stamped in your passport at your point of entry after payment is confirmed.
- Submit a clear copy of your passport (full page) to your tour operator for the application.
Passport Validity
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates; otherwise, renewal is necessary.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation must be notified in writing (email or fax).
info@rtt.com.np/ magar.kamal2011@gmail.com
Charges apply for cancellations as follows:
- More than 30 days before: Free
- Within 21 days: 25% of the cost
- Within 15 days: 50% of the cost
- Within 10 days: 100% of the cost
Delayed Arrival/Departure
- No charges for delays due to weather or roadblocks, but tourists must cover their own food, accommodation, and transport during delays.
Internet Access
- Free Wi-Fi is available in tourist-rated hotels (not in farmhouses).
- 4G connections are available with a Bhutan SIM card. Providers: B-Mobile and Tashi Cell.
Electricity/Power Plugs
- Voltage: 220 Volts (from hydroelectric plants) with electricity access at all sites.
- Use a universal power adapter due to varying plugs and sockets.
Bhutan Time: Time zone: GMT +6
Booking Info
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Approx Trip Cost
$ 000
Notes
Lunch and Dinner price is quoted per person per meal.
Check-in, check-out time at hotels is usually 12:00 noon
In case of any significant foreign exchange fluctuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we reserve the right to adjust the tour price accordingly.
