Glimpse of Bhutan

Overview

The Glimpse of Bhutan cultural tour covers the most important sightseeing in western Bhutan. Short on time but want to see the best of the kingdom? This is the tour for you.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the valleys of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro
• Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff edge in Paro
• Take in the Himalayan panorama from Dochula Pass
• Admire the architecture of Tashichho Dzong and Punakha Dzong
• Cross the iron chain bridge at Tachog Lhakhang
• Visit the giant Buddha Dordenma statue above Thimphu
• Hoist prayer flags and spread merit
• Walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang
• Watch locals compete at the national sport, archery
• Enjoy a traditional farmhouse dinner

Detailed Itinerary

1. Day 01: Arrive at Paro Airport – Thimphu (55 km / 1.5 hours)

   

   The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, with dazzling views of some of the world's highest glacial peaks. As you descend into the Paro valley you sweep past forested hills and the silvery Pa Chhu river. Your guide will meet you at the airport and drive you to Thimphu.

   • Stop at Tachog Lhakhang, reached by an iron chain bridge over the Pa Chhu, bright with prayer flags.
   • In Thimphu (2,300 m), visit Tashichho Dzong, seat of government and the central monk body.
   • Evening stroll through Thimphu town.

   Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

2. Day 02: Thimphu sightseeing

   Visit Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum and the takin reserve at Motithang. Try archery at Changlimithang ground.

   Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

3. Day 03: Thimphu – Punakha (71 km / 3 hours)

   Cross Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with its 108 chortens and, on a clear day, views of the eastern Himalaya. Visit Punakha Dzong at the meeting of two rivers, then walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang.

   Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

4. Day 04: Punakha – Paro (130 km / 4.5 hours)

   Drive back west to Paro. Visit Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum, and hoist prayer flags on the way.

   Overnight: Hotel in Paro

5. Day 05: Tiger's Nest hike

   Hike (4–5 hours round trip) to Paro Taktsang, Bhutan's most iconic monastery, clinging to a cliff 900 m above the valley. Farmhouse dinner and optional hot stone bath in the evening.

   Overnight: Hotel in Paro

6. Day 06: Departure

   Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Tashi Delek!

Inclusions

• Sustainable Development Fee (USD 100 per night) paid to the Government of Bhutan
• Bhutan visa
• Accommodation in 3-star certified hotels (upgradeable to 4 and 5-star)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide
• All ground transportation in a private vehicle
• Monument entry fees and internal taxes
• Mineral water during the tour
• Traditional hot stone bath

Exclusions

• Airfare (can be arranged by us)
• Travel insurance
• Expenses of a personal nature
• Tips for the guide and driver