Witness traditional Bhutanese hospitality in this 07-night/08-day Bhutan tour with a homely stay. Savor local cuisine, from red rice to spicy Ema Datshi. The combination of nature, culture, and heritage makes it a tour to cherish.
Your Gateway to Himalayas
7 Nights 8 Days Incredible Bhutan Tour
Trip at a Glance
Duration8 Days
Trip GradeModerate
DestinationBhutan
Maximum Altitude3,120 m
AccommodationHotel
Starts/EndsParo
ActivitiesTour
Best TimeThroughout the Year
7 nights 8 days Incredible Bhutan tour lets you feel the religious and natural spirit of the kingdom. You will explore the rich culture, stunning valleys, and religious monasteries of Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro. In the pristine Himalayan setting, each destination offers something different, from the peaceful scenery to the historical architecture.
Begin your 7-night/8-day Bhutan tour in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, situated at an altitude of 2,334 meters. The city is a fine blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the imposing Tashichho Dzong, the administrative headquarters of Bhutan.
Drive around the National Memorial Chorten and pay respects to Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic statue that looms over the valley. Walk through local bazaars, witness the art of weaving at the Textile Museum, and admire traditional crafts at the Folk Heritage Museum.
Travel to Gangtey as one of the most essential parts of the 07-night/8-day Bhutan Tour, which is at an altitude of approximately 2,900 meters in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. The glacial valley is a winter home for the endangered black-necked cranes.
Stop at the picturesque Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan's key Nyingma centres. Take the Gangtey Nature Trail hike through pine forests, small villages, and open fields. This quiet area provides an insight into rural Bhutanese life and rolling landscapes.
From Gangtey, descend to the subtropical Punakha Valley at 1,200 meters. The altitude difference creates warmer weather and lush surroundings. Visit the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, which stands at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
One of Bhutan's most picturesque old fortresses, this is a must-see. Take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple of Lama Drukpa Kunley. Punakha's green valley is speckled with terraced rice fields and idyllic village life.
Next, in your 7-night/8-day Incredible tour to Bhutan, you will move on to Paro at 2,200 meters amidst verdant hills and monasteries. Rinpung Dzong, a traditional fortress-monastery, provides stunning valley views. The National Museum, housed in an old watchtower, is of interest.
Drive to Chele La Pass at 3,988 meters for Himalayan panoramic views. The highlight in Paro is a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), perched at 3,120 meters. The sacred site clings to a cliff with breathtaking scenery and spiritual ambience.
This journey of 07 nights/08 days through Bhutan's western valleys immerses you in timeless scenery and kaleidoscopic culture. Each destination brings you closer to the kingdom's idyllic way of life. This 07-night/08-day trip brings you face-to-face with the revered beauty of Bhutan and Himalayan hospitality.
Major Highlights of 7 nights/8 days Incredible Bhutan Tour
- Visit the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, and its key cultural and historic attractions
- Visit scenic Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey Monastery
- Drive along the renowned Dochula Pass with Himalayan vistas as far as the eye can see
- See historic Punakha Dzong where two rivers converge
- Witness traditional Bhutanese countryside and rural communities
- Visit holy Paro sites and fortresses, such as Rinpung Dzong
- Hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) on a cliff
Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
You will land at Paro International Airport, Bhutan's sole international entry point, nestled in the midst of green hills. After visa formalities, meet your local guide outside the airport terminal. Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's quaint capital. The drive goes along the Paro River and then the Thimphu River. Along the way, you will see picturesque villages and fields of terracing.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in at your hotel and have a short rest. In the afternoon, visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, a massive golden Shakyamuni Buddha that stands tall over the valley. Visit the Takin Preserve, the residence of Bhutan's national animal.
In the evening, visit the Memorial Chorten, a religious monument built in memory of the third king. Walk around Thimphu's Main Street, shop at local handicraft shops, and taste Bhutanese tea.
Evening is at your own leisure or is an optional cultural show. Overnight stay at a hotel in Thimphu. Spend your first night in the Thunder Dragon Land.
After breakfast, view more of Thimphu. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, which gives a glimpse of rural Bhutanese life. Then proceed to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students study Bhutan's 13 traditional arts. Visit the Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century fortress-like temple perched above the city.
After lunch, proceed towards Gangtey in Phobjikha Valley. Cross Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where 108 memorial chortens are visible against the Himalayan range. On a clear day, catch glimpses of peaks like Masang Gang and Kangphu Gang. Drop down from the pass to Wangdue Phodrang's green valleys and rise up again step by step to Phobjikha.
Gangtey is a wide, glacial valley renowned for its unspoiled nature and black-necked cranes (winter: Nov–Feb). Visit the Gangtey Monastery, a centre of the significant Nyingma sect. Peer over the farmhouse-and-yak-pasture-dotted valley. Take a peaceful forest-and-village ramble along the Gangtey Nature Trail. Return to your hotel or lodge for an overnight stay in tranquill highland scenery.
Spend a leisurely morning in the Phobjikha Valley. If visiting during winter, stop by the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to discover more about this threatened species. After breakfast, take a stroll through surrounding villages and observe traditional farmhouses. Savor interaction with locals involved in potato cultivation and yak herding.
Begin driving towards Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, which descends from alpine highlands to warmer subtropical lowlands. Drive through rhododendron and oak forests. Along the way, stop over at Wangdue Phodrang town and see local architecture and markets. Upon arrival in Punakha, get checked into a hotel.
Afternoon, go to the imposing Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's most daunting fortress. At the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, it was once the seat of government before Thimphu became the capital. Cross the wooden cantilever bridge to reach the fortress. Stroll through its daunting courtyards, beautiful wood carvings, and sacred relics.
After that, embark on a short trek to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility shrine that is dedicated to the "Divine Madman," Lama Drukpa Kunley. The stroll through the paddy fields and villages is a refreshing and spiritual experience. Back to Punakha town for dinner and overnight.
This 4th day of the 7-night/8-day Incredible Bhutan Tour offers a deeper exploration of Punakha. After a beautiful breakfast, set out for a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. This temple, built by the Queen Mother, sits on a ridge overlooking the entire Punakha Valley.
The one-hour uphill hike winds through rice terraces and pine forests with cool and refreshing mountain air. From the top of the temple, enjoy sweeping views of the Mo Chu River and surrounding mountains.
On your way back from the trek, relax at a riverside café or treat yourself to a traditional hot stone bath (optional). You may also visit Bhutanese farms to observe their agricultural practices. In the afternoon, take a walk on suspension bridges that span the river with fluttering prayer flags.
Visit more local villages or join a local cooking class to learn Bhutanese recipes like Ema Datshi (chili cheese curry). Enjoy dinner with local hospitality at your hotel or a typical farmhouse. Overnight at Punakha.
Following breakfast, begin your return trip to Paro. Return to Dochula Pass and stop again to take in the Himalayan view. You can view peaks such as Gangkhar Puensum if the weather is good. Have tea at the café along the pass.
Drive down to Thimphu, where you can stop briefly for any shopping or sightseeing you missed. Drive on to Paro along the Paro Chu River. On reaching there, check in at your hotel and take a rest. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, which is one of the oldest temples of Bhutan, built in the 7th century, in the afternoon.
Afternoon: Walk around Paro town, browse local shops, and enjoy Bhutanese street food. Relax and prepare for the hike the next day. Overnight stay in Paro.
After an early morning breakfast, embark on the trek to Tiger's Nest Monastery, Bhutan's most sacred spiritual site. The trek starts from a base level of 2,600 m and climbs gently through pine groves lined with prayer flags.
Midway, pull over at a viewpoint café to have refreshments and sweeping views. Continue walking up the final section of rock steps that curve along the cliff. The monastery precariously perches on the edge of a cliff, 900 meters above Paro Valley.
Explore the innermost chambers of the monastery and meditate for a while in the peaceful environment. Learn about the legend of Guru Padmasambhava, who meditated here in the 8th century. Descend slowly, return to Paro, and have a traditional lunch.
Afternoon: Visit the National Museum at Ta Dzong and Paro Dzong below. The museum exhibits relics, textiles, and historical artefacts. You can also arrange a visit to a local village's archery ground to watch Bhutan's national sport. Dinner and overnight stay in Paro at your hotel.
Relax in Paro for the day. An option is a full-day excursion to Chele La Pass (3,988 m), the highest motorable road pass in Bhutan. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours. From the top, enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. Go for short walks along the ridge and see Kila Nunnery beneath the pass cliffs.
Otherwise, relax at your hotel or partake in a traditional wellness activity, e.g., an herbal bath or massage. You can also visit a local farm, have lunch with a family, and observe their life closely. You can see a cultural dance program or a Bhutanese meal in a local restaurant in the evening.
After breakfast, your guide will escort you back to Paro International Airport. Say goodbye to the stunning Himalayan kingdom and take memories with you of the culture, nature, and spirituality of Bhutan. Your 7-night, 8-day Bhutan odyssey concludes here.
If the above itinerary doesn’t meet your needs, we can design a Tailor-Made Program based on your travel plans and requirements,Reach our travel experts.
Trip Gallery
Good To Know
Why Choose Our "Incredible Bhutan Tour"?
Expert Guides: Trained and Experienced Local Guides
Expert local guides are included in each day of our Incedible Bhutan tour. They are certified by the Bhutan Tourism Council and know all the villages and valleys. For example, in Paro, our guide explains the history of Tiger's Nest in great detail. In fact, their stories come alive when they speak of Dzongs and temples.
In Punakha, tourists are narrated about the legends of the Divine Madman by locals themselves. Likewise, at Dochula Pass, the guide explains 108 chortens with personal input. Besides, they also help tourists connect with Bhutanese culture on a practical level during your 7 night 8 days Bhutan Tour. Through village strolls, guides explain local conversation and custom.
To put it simply, our experienced and trained guides enrich your Incredible Bhutan trip, make it smoother, and memorable.
Comfort & Convenience: Quality accommodation, comfortable transportation.
High-rated hotels in every overnight stay are part of our Incredible Bhutan tour. Actually, we select boutique hotels that offer clean rooms and beautiful views. For instance, in Thimphu, visitors reside in Namgay Heritage or equivalent standard lodges. In the same way, in Punakha, they unwind alongside the riverside resorts. All the hotels provide hot showers, clean beds, and nice food.
In fact, our guests themselves often compliment the serene environment and individualized hospitality. Our Bhutan tours unlike local buses employ private cozy vehicles throughout. Drivers are on time, experienced, and familiar with every mountain bend. Thus, the stay as well as the ride is safe and relaxing.
Tailored - Experience: Customized to Fit Your Passion
Actually, we tailor every Bhutan tour to fit your interest and pace. If you are nature inclined, we add more hikes like Lungchutse or Khamsum trails. If you are a culture enthusiast, we add home visits or monastic meditation. For example, one group was fond of art, so we added a Thangka painting workshop. In fact, our guide arranged it in Paro with a local artist family.
Equally, foodie travelers can take a cooking class in Thimphu. Also, we adjust walking distances or sightseeing time if needed. Older travelers prefer shorter walks and more rests. Therefore, the tour is yours — not a fixed schedule.
Sustainable Tourism: Our Duty as Responsible Tourists in Bhutan
Nepal Gateway Treks support Bhutan's "High Value, Low Impact" policy of tourism. Indeed, our packages respect local culture, nature, and people. For example, we only utilize locally owned hotels and restaurants. We also teach our guides about environmental ethics and waste reduction.
Our team collects plastic from the trail while hiking to Tiger's Nest. Similarly, we don't utilize single-use plastics and provide refillable water bottles. As opposed to some operators, we contribute a percentage of profits to local education. In Punakha, we sponsor a school that focuses on traditional music.
Therefore, by traveling with us, your holiday keeps Bhutan beautiful and in equilibrium.
All-Inclusive Package: Visa, Hotel, Meals, Transportation, Guide, Entrance Fees, SDF
Our 7 nights 8 days Bhutan tour package is totally all-inclusive. That is, no hidden costs after booking the tour. Like, the Bhutan visa fee and daily SDF are all included. Actually, we have all hotel stays, three meals a day, and bottled water included as well.
Similarly, all internal transport, sightseeing, guide fees, and entry tickets are included. Guests can visit places like Tashichho Dzong and Punakha Dzong without extra cost.
Unlike others, we mention every inclusion in the itinerary. So you don’t worry about payments during the tour. In conclusion, you enjoy Bhutan — we handle everything else.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation – Incredible Bhutan Tour (7 Nights / 8 Days)
Throughout the 7-night 8-day Bhutan tour, tourists stay in individually chosen 3-star hotels and boutique hotels. Hotels such as Tashi Namgay Resort in Paro and Hotel Druk in Thimphu are some of the selected hotels. Indeed, all hotels offer authentic Bhutanese ambiance with modern comfort. The rooms are neat, warm, and feature traditional Bhutanese furnishings. Additionally, the hotels are located near the heart of town, allowing for a relaxed evening walk.
Moreover, guests have peaceful stays as most of the hotels offer garden views and peaceful surroundings. For example, Dewachen Hotel in Phobjikha features valley views with wide-ranging scenes. Similarly, in Punakha, Zhingkham Resort offers a direct view of Punakha Dzong. Unlike city hotels, these rural hotels introduce you to nature. Likewise, hot water, Wi-Fi, and private toilets are always available, even in far-off places.
Last but not least, the hotels provide more than just a place to sleep. They provide Bhutanese hospitality and culture. Therefore, the visitors not only get a good sleep but also experience living the Bhutanese way of life. We inspect hotels seasonally for quality by our staff. Therefore, we assure to provide you with clean, safe, and picturesque accommodations. Most of our visitors report that hotel stays become the most memorable part of the trip.
Meals – Incredible Bhutan Tour (7 Nights / 8 Days)
Our Incredible Bhutan tour offers full-board meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—every day in the course of the trip. Toast, eggs, porridge, fruits, and butter tea constitute breakfast. A mix of Bhutanese and international foods is offered both at lunch and dinner. For example, tourists have a try at "ema datshi," the Bhutanese chili cheese, for lunch at Folk Heritage Restaurant in Thimphu.
Moreover, as compared to simple buffets, the foods are usually eaten in scenic restaurants or in local houses. Moreover, lunch in Punakha is scheduled alongside the Pho Chhu River, which is just great. Likewise, in Paro, dinner comes with a cultural performance of music and dance of the locals. Indeed, that adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the meal. The food is cooked fresh from organic produce, and vegetarian food is always provided.
In short, we do not just eat but also bond culturally over meals. We therefore offer a balance of local flavor, nutrition, and taste. Guests love how each meal is a reflection of Bhutan's identity. The food stories are also shared by the guides during the mealtime. You therefore leave Bhutan with full stomach as well as better understanding.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
Autumn and spring are the best time for visiting Bhutan. Actually, Spring is colorful and bright (March to May). Rhododendrons bloom along Dochula Pass (3,100 meters). Similarly, autumn (September to November) is bright and has awesome mountain scenery. You see Jomolhari (7,326 meters) from Paro and Dochu La. In fact, skies remain at their best between late October and early November. Equally significant festivals like Paro and Thimphu Tshechu take place during these seasons. They are the best times to experience Bhutanese culture.
However, summer and winter also enjoy their appeal. Unlike autumn, summer (June to August) enjoys rain and green fields. Winter (December to February) enjoys snow on summit passes but blue skies in the valleys. Bhutan's geographical location means that even winter is not as cold as one might expect in Thimphu (2,334 meters).
In brief, plan your Bhutan visit during spring or autumn to enjoy the finest scenery and Bhutan’s festivities. Both periods are well-suited for cultural tours, photo opportunities, and hiking in nature. Similarly, weather is also agreeable during 7 Nights 8 Days Bhutan Tour. So, Punakha, Paro, and Thimphu are yours without any weather worries during Autumn and Spring months.
Visa Process
All foreign visitors except Indians require a visa to visit Bhutan. Nepal Gateway Trek handle the entire visa process. Unlike other nations, Bhutanese visas are pre-approved by the government.
Indeed, from the moment your tour is booked with us, we do the application on your behalf. You send us the copy of your passport and advance payment. In the same manner, visas get approved by the government only by licensed operators like us. We give you the visa grant letter prior to your flight.
Lastly, the visa process is simple if you get a full tour. Moreover, we guide you through each procedure. Apart from that, you will have a hassle-free experience from arrival to departure during your Bhutan Tour.
Bhutanese Currency
The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN). It is fixed 1:1 against the Indian Rupee.
As a matter of fact, Indian Rupees (all denominations except ₹2,000 notes) are accepted everywhere. You can make payments in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha using them. Moreover, Credit cards are accepted only in larger hotels and shopping centers. It is advisable to use local currency for daily needs. ATMs are also available in major towns but not rural towns.
Overall, take Ngultrum with you for convenient travel during your 8-day tour. We help you exchange money upon arrival. Likewise, we also offer clear payment terms in your package.
In major cities, foreign currencies like USD, CAD and AUD and EURO are acceptable. But, don’t completely depend on them.
Clothing
Dress in layers in order to keep yourself warm during Bhutan's landscape. Mornings and evenings may be chilly even during summer.
In fact, Thimphu (2,334 meters) and Paro (2,200 meters) can be cold due to altitude. Moreover, the weather changes quickly around mountain passes like Dochula in Bhutan. Therefore, you should Bring a light jacket, warm fleece, and sun hat. For example, Punakha is warmer relatively, so you’ll need lighter clothes there.
Likewise, wear modest attire when visiting monasteries and Dzongs. To sum up, simple, warm, and respectful clothing is ideal for this 7-night 8 days Bhutan tour.
Health and Safety
Bhutan is a safe and hygienic place for all. However, precautions are called for.
Drink filtered or bottled water throughout the tour. Equally, avoid raw or street food. Thimphu and Paro are moderate altitudes at around 2,300 meters. Nevertheless, some visitors may suffer from mild effects of altitude. Rest, drink lots of fluids, and stroll slowly on the first day.
In short, observe health protocols, and you will have a hassle-free Bhutan trip. Actually, we have basic medic kits with us and provide any kind of emergency assistance.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi services are available in nearly all Bhutan hotels. However, quality of signal may be inconsistent.
In fact, Thimphu and Paro have reliable connections at most hotels. Punakha and rural lodges may be slower. Similarly, mobile networks like TashiCell and B-Mobile work in most towns. Use a local SIM for better network coverage.
Overall, connectivity is there but not always fast. Therefore, use the peaceful, digital-free life in Bhutan's nature.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory in Bhutan but is appreciated. Drivers and guides generally make ends meet on tips.
For example, it is customary to tip your guide $8–$10 per day. Similarly, drivers will also receive $5–$7 per day. But tip based on your satisfaction with the service you received. Restaurant tipping is not expected.
In brief, tipping is an expression of gratitude and supports local service personnel. We provide recommendations on appropriate tips during the course of the tour.
Respecting Local Culture
Respecting Bhutanese culture is greatly appreciated. Simple etiquette should be observed by visitors, above all at sacred sites.
Meanwhile, remove shoes when visiting monasteries. Dress modestly and do not wear sleeveless shirts. Likewise, do not point towards religious symbols. Also, always walk chortens and temples in a clockwise direction. Photography is typically not allowed inside Dzongs.
Finally, respect for culture enhances your Bhutan experience. Take your guide's advice to respect Bhutanese customs during this 7 night 8 day Bhutan Tour.
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