Overview
Experience the best of Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes on this immersive 3-day tour. Explore ancient fortresses, sacred monasteries, and traditional arts while soaking in the serene beauty of the Himalayas. From the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the vibrant capital of Thimphu, this journey offers a perfect introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Trip Highlights
- Visit the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) perched on a cliffside.
- Explore the historic Drukgyal Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
- Discover Bhutanese culture at Tashichho Dzong, the National Museum, and the Folk Heritage Museum.
- Witness the intricate craftsmanship of Bhutanese artisans at traditional workshops.
- Enjoy scenic drives through Paro and Thimphu, surrounded by stunning Himalayan landscapes.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an early lunch. If arriving from Delhi or Kathmandu, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other Himalayan peaks, including Bhutan’s sacred Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
After lunch, begin your sightseeing with a visit to the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1647 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Though destroyed by fire, the ruins remain a symbol of Bhutan’s past victories. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m) from here.
Next, stop at Satsham Chorten, offering spectacular views of Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) perched dramatically on a cliff. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated here after arriving on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century. Though Taktsang has 13 holy sites, most visitors explore the main temple, Taktsang Pelphug, built in 1684.
On the way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This sacred site marks the advent of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Continue to the National Museum (Ta Dzong), originally a watchtower of Rinpung Dzong, now home to Bhutan’s rich history and artifacts. Below the museum lies Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of the Heap of Jewels), built in 1645. The fortress houses the district administration and monastic body, with intricate Buddhist murals lining its courtyards.
After evening tea in Paro, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, located about 60 km from Paro (approx. 2-hour drive). The journey passes the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers at Chuzom, where three distinct chortens (stupas) stand. A short distance ahead, see Tachogang Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by the great iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.
Overnight in Thimphu.
After breakfast, explore Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress housing the King’s office, the Throne Room, government ministries, and the monastic body. Built in 1641 and reconstructed in 1961, this stunning structure was built without nails, following Bhutanese architectural traditions.
Next, visit the National Library, home to ancient manuscripts, followed by the Institute for Traditional Medicine, where age-old healing practices like acupuncture and herbal remedies are still in use. Continue to the Painting & Woodcraft School, where students master traditional Bhutanese art, and the Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s intricate weaving traditions.
Explore the Folk Heritage Museum, offering insights into Bhutan’s rural lifestyle, and visit local workshops for mask-making, metal crafts, weaving, ceramics, and handmade paper production.
After lunch, visit the Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. Then, travel 6 km outside Thimphu to visit Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan, built in 1629, and now a major center for monastic studies.
Conclude the day with a visit to the Handicrafts Emporium and local markets, where you can browse Bhutanese textiles, thangkas, wood carvings, jewelry, and unique handmade souvenirs.
In the evening, drive back to Paro.
Overnight stay in Paro.
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Accommodation at 3-star hotels/resorts (upgrade options available for an additional fee)
- Licensed English-speaking tour guide (limited other language guides available upon request for an additional fee)
- Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Entry fees to museums, monasteries, and cultural sites
- All government taxes and service charges
- Driver and road transport for the entire tour
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – USD $100 per person per night (valid until December 2027)
- Bhutan visa fee (USD $40 per person)
Cost Excludes
- Flight fares
- Travel insurance (must be arranged by the traveler)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, souvenirs)
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Single room supplement charges (if applicable)
- Cost for any services or activities not mentioned in the "Cost Includes"
FAQs
All our tour packages include accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), a licensed English-speaking guide, transport within Bhutan, entry fees to museums and monasteries, and all government taxes and service charges. For some packages, additional activities or upgrades may be available at extra costs.
Our packages do not include visa fees, international flights, travel insurance, alcohol, personal expenses, and any activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Visa applications for Bhutan are processed through licensed tour operators. Once you book your tour, we will assist you with the visa application process. The visa will be granted once your payment is processed.
Yes, you can upgrade your accommodation for an additional fee. We offer a range of accommodations, including 3-star hotels and resorts. Please contact us for more details on accommodation upgrades.
We offer customizable options for most of our tours. If you have specific requests or would like to tailor your itinerary, please contact us, and we will work with you to create a personalized experience.
he hikes included in our tours, such as the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, are moderate in difficulty. They require a reasonable level of fitness, but our guides are experienced and can pace the hike to suit the group’s comfort level. If you have concerns, please consult with us before booking.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for our tours; however, we strongly recommend that all guests arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Please note that we do not provide travel insurance services.
We arrange flights to and from Paro International Airport. For flights beyond Paro, either before or after your tour, guests are responsible for making their own arrangements.
There are no age restrictions for our tours; however, at least one adult must be part of the group. While we welcome travelers of all ages, certain activities may have updated guidelines or recommendations. We advise checking with us regarding specific activities to ensure suitability for all participants.
Yes, visiting Bhutan during its vibrant festivals is highly recommended. You can explore our festival packages on our website or contact us directly for more information on festival dates and arrangements.
While Bhutan is gradually expanding its acceptance of credit and debit cards, cash is still recommended for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be feasible. Having some local currency (Ngultrum) on hand will ensure convenience for such transactions.
Bhutan has strict regulations regarding tobacco use and sales. The Tobacco Control Act of Bhutan 2010 prohibits the cultivation, manufacture, sale, and distribution of tobacco products within the country. However, individuals are allowed to import tobacco products for personal consumption, subject to payment of taxes and duties. It’s important to declare any tobacco products upon arrival and retain proof of payment for applicable taxes and duties. Smoking is prohibited in public places, including commercial centers, recreational areas, institutions, public transportation, and other designated non-smoking areas. Designated smoking areas are available in certain establishments. Please note that expenses related to tobacco consumption are not covered under our tour packages.
Meals will be traditional Bhutanese dishes, as well as international cuisine. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, please inform us in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
Travel times vary depending on the destinations. On average, it can take between 3 to 6 hours by car for intercity transfers. Our tours are designed to ensure comfort during travel, with breaks along the way for scenic stops and refreshments.
Payments for tours are typically made through wire transfers. Once you book your tour, we will send you the payment details. Bookings are confirmed once the payment is received.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and accommodations, though it may be limited or slower in more remote areas. We recommend preparing for limited connectivity in certain regions.
We recommend comfortable clothing for sightseeing and hiking, sturdy shoes for walks, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and light layers for varying temperatures. A camera to capture the stunning landscapes is also a must!
Cancellations must be made in writing via email. Refunds will be processed based on the following schedule:
- 30 days or more before arrival: No charges.
- 21-29 days before arrival: 10% of the total tariff.
- 16-20 days before arrival: 15% of the total tariff.
- 15 days or less before arrival: No refund.
- After arrival in Bhutan: 100% of the total tariff.
No refunds will be provided for no-shows or unused services.
Yes, rescheduling is possible based on availability. Requests must be made at least 30 days before arrival to avoid cancellation fees. Additional charges may apply.
To cancel, please email us at info@phuentshok.com with your booking details. Cancellations are processed based on the date we receive your written request.
Eligible refunds are processed within 7-14 business days after confirmation. Refunds will be issued via the same method used for payment. It can take up to 30 days before you can see the amount in your bank account.
Overall Trip Rating:
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Verified Purchase
(Canada)September 2, 2023 Beautiful Country, Well-Organized TourThis tour gave me memories I will cherish forever. From the moment we landed, we were welcomed with warm Bhutanese hospitality. The cultural sites were awe-inspiring, and the peaceful atmosphere of the country made it feel like a dream. A must-do trip if you want to experience Bhutan’s magic!
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Verified Purchase
(United States (US))October 26, 2018 Highly Recommended!If you’re looking for a short yet immersive Bhutan experience, this is it! The guide was friendly, the accommodations were great, and the sights were unforgettable. From Paro’s temples to the majestic Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, everything was perfect. Highly recommend this tour!
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Verified Purchase
(United States (US))March 15, 2018 A Magical Experience in Bhutan!This tour exceeded all my expectations! The highlight was definitely the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery – the views were breathtaking, and the experience was truly spiritual. Our guide was knowledgeable, kind, and always made sure we were comfortable. Bhutan’s rich culture and stunning landscapes left me in awe. I wish I had more time to explore, but this 3-day tour was the perfect introduction to this incredible country!
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Verified Purchase
(France)September 4, 2017 Great Cultural Insight!Bhutan is absolutely stunning! This tour was well-organized, and I appreciated how knowledgeable the guide was. The hike to Tiger’s Nest was challenging but totally worth it. I only wish I had more days to explore!
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