5 days Bhutan tour

This short 5-day Bhutan tour itinerary takes you through three captivating districts in western Bhutan: Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. The charming Paro Valley, situated at an altitude of 2200 meters, is home to Bhutan’s only international airport and numerous historical landmarks. Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital, is unique for being the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. Punakha, the ancient capital, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortresses in Bhutan. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Punakha Dzong

Highlights of the trip:

Meet local people.
Ancient monasteries, temples & magnificent dzongs (Forts).
Museums and government institutions.
Farmhouse visit.
Scenic landscapes.

Sketch itinerary:

Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour drive | Altitude: 2334 m.
Day 2. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu | 76 km | Drive: 2 1/2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
Day 3. Thimphu – Paro sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2200 m.
Day 4. Paro sightseeing – Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.
Day 5. Paro – Departure:

5 days Bhutan tour cost:

The 5 days Bhutan tour cost is given below and is inclusive of sustainable development fee (SDF) of US $ 100 per person per night and Bhutan visa fee US $ 40 per person.

Entrance fees for monuments and festivals visits to be paid separately.

Solo travel: US $ 1350.
2 pax: US $ 1170 per person.
3 pax or more: US $ 1015 per person.

Nature of trip: Private and guided travel to Bhutan.

5 days Bhutan tour - Detail itinerary.

1. Is it possible to visit the Tiger's nest monastery if I book 4 nights 5 days Bhutan tour ?

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide and driver, who will accompany you on a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. On the way, enjoy a short stop to admire the historic Tamchog Monastery, built by the renowned iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo.

In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten, a landmark dedicated to world peace, followed by the towering Buddha Dordenma Statue, offering panoramic views of the valley. Explore the sacred Changangkha Lhakhang, the serene Sangaygang Viewpoint, and the tranquil Dupthop Nunnery.

In the evening, tour the majestic Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s royal secretariat and summer residence of the Je Khenpo. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 2. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu | 76 km | Drive: 2 1/2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.

In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to the stunning Punakha Valley, renowned for its lush landscapes and historical significance. En route, stop at the picturesque Dochula Pass (3,140 m), adorned with 108 chortens and offering panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas. Visit the sacred Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the “Temple of Fertility,” built in honor of Drukpa Kuenley, the legendary “Divine Madman” of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, constructed in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This iconic fortress, set at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, served as Bhutan’s ancient capital until the reign of the second king.

In the evening, return to Thimphu for dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 3. Thimphu – Paro sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2200 m.

Begin your morning in Thimphu with a visit to the National Postal Museum, where you can explore Bhutan’s unique stamp collections and postal history. Continue to the Painting School (Zorig Chusum), the School of 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts, to witness the preservation of Bhutanese craftsmanship. Next, browse the Craft Bazaar, showcasing authentic local handicrafts. Enjoy free time strolling around the town, perfect for shopping and photography.

Later, drive to Paro and, after lunch, visit the historic Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan. Explore the nearby Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress and monastery with a rich history. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience local culture.

In the evening, enjoy free time exploring Paro town, ideal for shopping and photography. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 4. Paro sightseeing – Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.

Start your morning with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), the highlight of the 5-day Bhutan tour. Perched dramatically on a cliff at 3,120 meters, the monastery is a sacred pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley. The uphill trek takes approximately two hours and is as rewarding as the destination itself.

In the afternoon, visit the historic Drugyel Dzong, also known as the “Fortress of Victory,” which commemorates Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Continue to Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, built in 659 AD.

Spend the evening leisurely strolling through Paro town, where you can shop for local crafts and capture stunning photographs of the valley. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Day 5. Paro – Departure (End of 4 nights / 5 days Bhutan tour).

After breakfast, bid farewell to the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan as you drive to Paro International Airport. Your guide and driver will assist you with departure formalities, ensuring a smooth and memorable end to your journey. Safe travels!

FAQs - 5 days Bhutan tour itinerary

1. Which places can I visit during this 3 nights / 4 days Bhutan tour ?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) on a 4-night, 5-day Bhutan tour. Typically, the visit to this iconic monastery is scheduled on the last full day of the itinerary, ensuring ample time to experience its beauty without feeling rushed.

2. Is the itinerary customizable?

Yes, the itinerary is flexible. You can work with your tour operator to adjust activities based on your interests, fitness level, or preferred pace of travel.

3. What kind of accommodation is provided?

You can choose between 3-star hotels (standard packages), luxury resorts, or even authentic Bhutanese farm stays. The hotels are clean, comfortable, and meet Bhutanese tourism standards.

4. Is it suitable for families or elderly travelers?

Absolutely! The 5-day Bhutan tour is suitable for travelers of all ages. Activities such as the Tiger’s Nest hike can be skipped or substituted if required.

5. Are meals included in the tour package?

Yes, the package typically includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring Bhutanese and continental cuisine. Special dietary requests can be accommodated.

Tour cost includes

All meals [breakfast / lunch / dinner.
Accommodation [twin / double sharing basis]. Single room supplement is extra.
All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
Sustainable development fee (SDF).
Bhutan visa fee.
English speaking local guide.
Sightseeing.
Bottled water.

Tour Cost Excludes

Entrance fees for museums and monuments.
Domestic/International flight (Drukair / Bhutan Airlines fares).
Insurance premiums.
Payments for service provided on a personal basis.
Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
Cost for any services not mentioned in the “Cost Include head”.
Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, etc...
Tips for guide and driver.