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Bhutan-7-days: culture-photography

Phuentsholing-Thimphu-Punakha-Paro

DURATION

7 Days

PRICE PER PERSON

$ onwards

OFF-BEAT

PHOTOGRAPHY

CULTURE

Plan my Jrny

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Plan my Jrny

Bhutan-7-days: culture-photography: Phuentsholing-Thimphu-Punakha-Paro

DURATION

7 Days

PRICE PER PERSON

$ onwards

Plan my Jrny

About this Jrny

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and spiritual heritage.
Our journey begins with an arrival in Bagdogra, followed by a scenic drive to Phuentsholing, where we complete immigration formalities and explore the town’s vibrant atmosphere. In Thimphu, we experience the capital’s unique charm, visiting landmarks such as the towering Buddha Dordenma, the grand Tashichho Dzong, and the serene Motithang Takin Preserve. We also explore local markets and gain insight into Bhutanese traditions at the Folk Heritage Museum. Our adventure continues in Punakha, where we enjoy breathtaking views from Dochula Pass before visiting the stunning Punakha Dzong. A walk across the Suspension Bridge and a short hike to the sacred Chimi Lhakhang add to the experience. In Paro, we embark on the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike, a journey that rewards us with spectacular views and spiritual serenity. We also explore Rinpung Dzong, the National Museum, and the historic Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.

Highlights

Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue: one of the world’s largest and tallest sitting Buddha statues
Spot endangered Takins at the wildlife reserve
Visit Punakha Dzong, second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan
Drive through Dochu-La pass with 108 chortens
Hike to Tiger's Nest monastery

Inclusions:

6 Breakfast, 6 dinners
1 night stay in Phuentsholing
2 nights stay in Thimphu
1 night stay in Punakha
2 nights stay in Paro
Stay in comfortable hotels in the city centre location (specified in the itinerary or similar)
Airport transfers Bagdogra to Bagdogra
Local English speaking guides/experts for all sightseeing
All activities are weather dependent and subject to change

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Phuentsholing

Day 2

Phuentsholing to Thimphu

Day 3

A Day in Thimphu

Day 4

A Day in Punakha

Day 5

Punakha to Paro

Day 6

A Day in Paro

Day 7

Depart Paro

Overview

Duration

7 Days

Price per person

$ onwards

onwards

Activity level

Moderate

Travel Style

comfort

Suggested Ages

Any

Maximum Group size

Any

Plan My Jrny

Bhutan-7-days: culture-photography

7 Days from $ / person

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Number of Kids (under 12 years)

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Stay

Day 1,

1 N

Meto Pema Hotel

Phuentsholing

Day 2 - 3, Night

2 N

Hotel Phuntsho Pelri

Thimphu

Day 4,

1 N

Dragon Nest Resort

Punakha

Day 5 - 7, Night

2 N

Hotel Olathang

Paro

Day 1,

1 N

Hotel Druk

Phuentsholing

Day 2 - 3, Night

2 N

Lemon Tree Resort, Thimphu

Thimphu

Day 4,

1 N

Lobesa Boutique Hotel, Punakha

Punakha

Day 5 - 7, Night

2 N

Hotel Kaachi Grand

Paro

Your Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Phuentsholing

Arrive Bagdogra Airport (Code: IXB) where your journey begins.

After your arrival, you will be transferred in a private vehicle to Phuentsholing, enjoying the scenic drive along the way. The lush landscapes and winding roads will provide a beautiful introduction to Bhutan. Once you reach Phuentsholing, you will check into your hotel and have the evening to relax. After a peaceful overnight stay, you’ll be ready to explore more of Bhutan tomorrow.

Meals: None

Activities

Bagdogra to Phuentsholing Drive

00:00 - 23:59

The drive from Bagdogra to Phuentsholing takes you through scenic landscapes, with lush greenery and winding mountain roads offering a beautiful introduction to Bhutan. As you travel, you'll experience the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the first glimpses of Bhutan’s natural beauty.

Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 170 kms/ 106 miles

Day 2

Phuentsholing to Thimphu

Today, you will embark on a scenic 6-7 hour drive from Phuentsholing to Thimphu, passing through lush valleys and winding mountain roads. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to stop and enjoy the picturesque views of Bhutan’s natural beauty.

Upon reaching Thimphu, you’ll check into your hotel and unwind after the long journey. In the evening, you will begin exploring the vibrant capital, starting with the impressive Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest Buddha statues. Your exploration of Bhutan’s culture and history in Thimphu will truly begin to unfold!

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Phuentsholing to Thimphu Drive

07:00 - 13:00

The drive from Phuentsholing to Thimphu takes around 6-7 hours, offering stunning views of lush valleys and scenic mountain roads. As you journey through the hills, you'll experience the natural beauty of Bhutan, with occasional stops to admire the landscape.

Duration: 7 hours
Distance: 160 kms/ 100 miles

Buddha Dordenma Statue

16:00 - 17:00

The Buddha Dordenma Statue is one of the world’s largest and tallest sitting Buddha statues, celebrating the 60th anniversary of fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

Day 3

A Day in Thimphu

After breakfast in the morning, get ready for another exciting day. Your exploration of Thimphu continues with visits to some of its most fascinating sites. You begin at Simtoka Dzong, the oldest dzong in Thimphu, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s history while providing stunning views of the surrounding valley. Next, you will head to the Simply Bhutan Museum, where you can step back in time and experience Bhutanese culture through engaging exhibits and traditional settings. Afterward, you'll visit the Takin Wildlife Reserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. The reserve provides a peaceful setting where you can observe these unique creatures in their natural habitat. Throughout the day, you will get an enriching mix of history, wildlife, and Bhutanese traditions. Your time in Thimphu will deepen your connection with the country’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. There’s much more to discover as your adventure unfolds.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Memorial Chorten

09:00 - 10:00

The Memorial Stupa, Thimphu, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is a stupa in Thimphu, Bhutan, located on Doeboom Lam in the southern-central part of the city near the main roundabout and Indian military hospital.

The Simtoka Dzong

10:30 - 12:00

The Simtokha Dzong is one of the oldest Dzong’s in Bhutan. It was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Known as the “Palace of Profound Meaning,” it houses ancient murals and serves as a center for Buddhist learning.

Simply Bhutan Museum

14:00 - 15:30

Simply Bhutan: a living museum that gives you a glimpse of the Bhutanese culture. It offers an immersive experience of the culture, traditions, and architecture. Visitors can enjoy activities like traditional archery, try on local attire, and savour authentic Bhutanese cuisine.

Takin Wildlife Preserve

16:00 - 18:00

The Takin Wildlife Preserve in Thimphu is a sanctuary dedicated to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, a unique and endangered species. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, it offers visitors a chance to observe these fascinating creatures up close.

Day 4

A Day in Punakha

The drive from Thimphu to Punakha is a picturesque journey through Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Along the way, stop at Dochula Pass, a serene mountain pass adorned with 108 chortens and panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks on clear days. As you descend into the warmer Punakha Valley, visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers. Known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” the Dzong is a historic and spiritual treasure, rich with intricate details and vibrant history. This journey perfectly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, creating an unforgettable experience.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Drive Thimphu to Punakha

07:00 - 09:00

The drive from Thimphu to Punakha is a scenic journey through winding mountain roads, lush forests, and picturesque valleys. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.

Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 72 km/ 44 miles

Dochu-la pass

09:00 - 11:00

The Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in the snow covered Himalayas within Bhutan on the road from Thimphu to Punakha where 108 memorial chortens or stupas known as "Druk Wangyal Chortens" have been built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother.

Punakha Dzong

14:00 - 16:00

The Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” is a stunning fortress at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers. Renowned for its intricate architecture and vibrant history, it served as Bhutan’s ancient capital and a symbol of unity. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures.

Day 5

Punakha to Paro

This morning, you will embark on a scenic drive from Punakha to Paro, passing through stunning valleys and mountainous landscapes. The journey will take you to one of Bhutan's most iconic destinations, where you will prepare for the highlight of the day – the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

This breathtaking monastery, perched high on a cliff, is one of Bhutan’s most revered spiritual sites. The hike to Tiger’s Nest is both challenging and rewarding, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. As you explore the monastery, you will marvel at its history, architecture, and serene atmosphere. After the hike, you will return to Paro, where you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure. Tomorrow, you’ll continue your exploration of Paro's beautiful sights.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Drive Punakha to Paro

07:00 - 10:00

Journey from Punakha and Wangdue to Paro through winding mountain roads, passing verdant valleys, traditional villages, and scenic riverbanks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and majestic dzongs along the way before arriving in Paro, home to Bhutan’s iconic cultural and natural wonders.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 115 kms / 72 miles

Hike to Tiger's Nest

11:00 - 17:00

Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger's Nest in Bhutan or Paro Taktsang. It is a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and the temple complex is located in the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan.

Day 6

A Day in Paro

On this day you will continue exploring Paro with visits to some of its most iconic landmarks. You begin at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance. Next, you will head to Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress that overlooks the Paro Valley, where you’ll learn about Bhutan’s history and culture. From there, you will visit the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a glimpse into Bhutan’s past. Later, you will explore Ta Dzong, the former watchtower now housing the National Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s fascinating heritage. Finally, you will visit Simtokha Dzong, a historic fortress that serves as a center for Buddhist learning. By the end of the day, you will have a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s rich spiritual and historical landscape.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Kyichu Lhakhang

09:00 - 10:30

Kyichu Lhakhang, is an important 16th century Himalayan Buddhist temple situated in Lango Gewog of Paro District in Bhutan.

Rinchen Pung Dzong

11:00 - 12:30

Rinchen Pung Dzong, commonly known as Rinpung Dzong is a large dzong - Buddhist monastery and fortress - of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school in Paro District, Bhutan. It houses the district Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. It is listed as a tentative site in Bhutan's Tentative List for UNESCO inclusion.

Drukgyel Dzong

14:00 - 15:00

Drukgyal Dzong was a fortress and Buddhist monastery, now in ruins, located in the upper part of the Paro District, Bhutan. The dzong was probably built by Tenzin Drukdra in 1649 at the behest of Ngawang Namgyal, Zhabdrung Rinpoche, to commemorate victory over an invasion from Tibet.

Ta Dzong

15:30 - 17:00

National Museum of Bhutan is a cultural museum in the town of Paro in western Bhutan. Established in 1968, in the renovated ancient Ta-dzong building, above Rinpung Dzong under the command of His Majesty, the King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third hereditary Monarch of Bhutan.

Simtokha Dzong

17:30 - 18:30

Simtokha Dzong also known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang is a small dzong. It was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who unified Bhutan. It is the first of its kind built in Bhutan.

Day 7

Depart Paro

Today as you complete your journey, you will either drive back to Bagdogra or take a flight from Paro Airport to head back home. The drive to Bagdogra, offers one last view of Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. If you’re flying, you’ll have a smooth departure, leaving with memories of your incredible journey. This marks the end of your Bhutan adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Paro

00:00 - 23:59

Shared group transfer to Bagdogra by car.

Duration: 10 hours
Distance: 300 km/ 286 miles

Alternatively, take a flight out of Paro (airport code PBH).

Frequently Asked Questions

This Bhutan trip is perfect for you if you seek a well-balanced adventure filled with cultural discovery, scenic drives, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re excited to explore the vibrant capital of Thimphu, experience the spiritual journey of hiking to Tiger’s Nest in Paro, or admire the majestic Punakha Dzong, this itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences. If you enjoy mountain vistas, rich history, and immersing yourself in a peaceful and spiritually uplifting environment, this journey is designed for you!

- International flights

- Visa fees

- Meals that are not specified in the itinerary

- Tips for driver and local guide

- Transfer charges to Thimphu, if you fly into Paro airport

- This rate is valid for only Indian passport holder. For other nationals, there is an additional supplement cost of US$ 550 per person for the Bhutan government sustainable development fee.

The tour starts and ends in Bagdogra. You should arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) to travel to Bhutan by road and depart from Bagdogra at the end of the trip. Alternatively, you can fly out of Paro International Airport (PBH) if you prefer a direct departure.

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. Foreign travellers will require a visa for entry into Bhutan. Indian citizens do not need a visa to visit Bhutan. However, they must carry either a passport (with at least six months of validity). Additionally, Indians traveling to Bhutan require a permit, which can be obtained upon arrival at the entry points, such as Phuentsholing or Paro, or online via Bhutan’s official immigration portal. The permit is necessary for visiting regions like Thimphu and Paro, and a special permit is required for other areas like Punakha or Haa Valley. It is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website. Each passenger must be personally responsible for ensuring she/he possesses valid travel documentation. If you would like assistance with your visa, please write to [email protected]

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. JrnyOn does not sell travel insurance since we want you to be able to choose a policy that meets your requirements. For those looking for an insurance supplier, we can recommend Insurance Nomads. Write to them at [email protected] with your Jrny details for insurance options.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor incase you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are no activities scheduled for the first day. The standard check-in time at the hotel would be 1400 hrs, and you can plan your arrival accordingly

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 11:00 hrs or 12 noon.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 3 would be ideal.

Please refer to the daily activities in the itinerary, where the driving distance and duration for each day are given. The longest drive on this tour is approx 8-10 hrs (depending on traffic) from Paro to Bagdogra.

Vegetarian options will be available, but might be somewhat limited. The same is true for vegan options.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

April is a delightful time to visit Bhutan, as the country experiences pleasant spring weather with clear skies and blooming landscapes. Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C, while evenings can be cooler, especially in higher-altitude areas like Thimphu and Paro. Rainfall is minimal during this month, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and sightseeing.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 75 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour-

Cancellation up to 91 days from the date of travel: 10% cancellation charges (as per the total trip cost) will be levied, the rest will be refunded to you.

From 90 - 46 days from the date of travel: 30% cancellation charges will be levied

45 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied