8 Days Bhutan tour itinerary
The 8 Days Bhutan Tour itinerary covers five captivating districts in western Bhutan: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, and Gangtey, offering a diverse experience of Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Highlights of the trip include visits to Phobjikha Valley, one of the most scenic valleys, and a drive through the Cheli La Pass (3988 m), which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. You will also explore Bhutan’s iconic landmarks, including the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, and the stunning Gangtey Gompa monastery. The tour combines cultural exploration with the charm of Bhutan’s dramatic landscapes, providing a thorough insight into the country’s rich history, spiritual significance, and natural beauty.
The beautiful Dochula pass (3140 m).
Highlights of the trip:
- Ancient temples, monasteries & dzongs (Forts).
- Museums and government institutions.
- Pristine villages and farmhouse visit.
- Scenic landscapes.
- Archery matches.
- Meet local people.
Sketch itinerary:
- Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 2. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
- Day 3. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing | 76 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
- Day 4. Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey sightseeing | 75 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3000 m.
- Day 5. Gangtey – Thimphu sightseeing | 142 km | Drive: 4 hours.
- Day 6. Thimphu – Paro – Excursion to Cheli la pass | 94 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3988 m).
- Day 7. Paro – hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery (Paro Taktsang) | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.
- Day 8. Paro – Departure.
8 Days Bhutan tour cost:
The 8 days Bhutan tour cost given below 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 $ 2235 per person.
- 2 Persons: US $ 1905 per person.
- 3 People or more: US $ 1645 per person.
Nature of trip: Privately guided travel to Bhutan.
8 Days Bhutan tour - Detail itinerary.
Day 1. Arrive Paro – Thimphu sightseeing | 54 Km | Drive: 1 hour | Altitude: 2334 m.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide and driver will meet you and drive you to Thimphu Valley. On the way, make a brief stop to visit Tamchog Monastery, built in the 15th century by Thang Tong Gyalpo, a revered Buddhist figure. In the afternoon, explore Thimphu’s key sights including the Memorial Chorten, the towering Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5 meters), Changangkha Lhakhang, and the Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal.
In the evening, enjoy views from Sangaygang Viewpoint, visit the Dupthop Lhakhang (Thimphu’s oldest nunnery), and take time to stroll the town for shopping and photography.
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 2. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude: 2334 m.
In the morning, visit the National Postal Museum, where you can even print your pictures on official Bhutanese stamps. Then, explore the Textile Museum, showcasing traditional Bhutanese textiles, followed by a visit to the School of 13 Arts and Crafts, where you can learn about Bhutan’s intricate craftsmanship. Stop by Simply Bhutan, a cultural museum where you can enjoy Ara (local alcohol), experience a folk museum, and watch a traditional cultural show.
In the afternoon, witness a thrilling archery match at Changlimithang Stadium.
In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, the royal secretariat, where the grand Thimphu Festival is held in early autumn.
Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 3. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing | 76 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 1242 m.
Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. On the way, enjoy a scenic stop at Dochu La Pass (3140 m), where you can take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Just a few kilometers below, visit Chimi Lhakhang, built in 1499 to honor Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” This temple is popularly called the Temple of Fertility due to Drukpa Kuenley’s unorthodox methods of teaching Buddhism.
After lunch, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Then, take a hike to the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Monastery, built by Her Majesty Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck.
In the evening, walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan (160 meters) over the Pho Chu River, with stunning views of Punakha Valley below.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4. Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Gangtey sightseeing | 75 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3000 m.
In the morning, drive to Gangtey and Phobjikha. Take a short stop along the way to view Wangdue Phodrang Dzong.
Note: The lower part of the valley is Phobjikha, and the upper part is Gangtey.
The Gangtey Monastery, perched on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the Phobjikha valley below. This valley serves as the roosting ground for the rare black-necked cranes in winter.
Visit the Gangtey Gompa Monastery, built in 1613 by Gyaltse Pema Thinley. The annual Black-necked Crane Festival is held here, celebrating these migratory birds.
Afterward, visit the Crane Information Center, where you can learn about the conservation efforts for the black-necked cranes.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Phobjikha Valley.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 5. Gangtey – Thimphu sightseeing | 142 km | Drive: 4 hours.
In the morning, drive to Thimphu, with occasional stops along the way to capture the beautiful scenery through pictures.
In the afternoon, visit the Changlimithang Stadium to witness a traditional archery match, an exciting and culturally significant sport in Bhutan.
Afterward, enjoy some free time for shopping, where you can explore local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 6. Thimphu – Paro – Excursion to Cheli la pass | 94 km | Drive: 2 hours | Altitude: 3988 m).
In the morning, drive to Paro and visit the Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, which showcases Bhutan’s rich history and culture. Afterward, head to Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, renowned for its breathtaking Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship.
In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to the scenic Cheli La Pass (3988 meters), offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. This is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, and the views are truly spectacular.
On the way back to Paro, stop at the Kila Gompa Nunnery, home to around 90 nuns, and originally established as a meditation center in the 9th century.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 7. Paro – hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery (Paro Taktsang) | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.
In the morning, drive to Satsam Chorten and embark on a 2-hour hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), the highlight of the 8-day Bhutan tour itinerary. This breathtaking monastery, perched on a cliff, is perhaps the most photographed monument in Bhutan and a UNESCO World Heritage site. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress.
In the afternoon, visit Drugyel Dzong, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This fortress played a key role in defending Bhutan from invasions.
Next, explore Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest monasteries, built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo. He constructed 108 temples in a single day across the Himalayan region to subdue an ogress, with Kichu Lhakhang being one of the most prominent.
In the evening, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience local life and hospitality.
Day 8. Paro – Departure (End of 8 days Bhutan tour itinerary).
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 - 8 Days Bhutan tour itinerary
Is Bhutan a suitable destination for solo travelers or families?
Yes, Bhutan is an excellent destination for both solo travelers seeking spiritual journeys and families looking to experience a new culture. The Bhutanese are welcoming, and the country offers a safe and enriching environment for all types of travelers.
Do I need to be physically fit for a Bhutan Tour?
While cultural tours involve some walking and light hiking, such as visiting monasteries or hiking to Tiger’s Nest, they are generally suitable for most fitness levels. However, certain hikes may require a moderate level of fitness, especially those leading to higher altitudes.
What is the food like in Bhutan?
Bhutanese cuisine is simple but flavorful, with a focus on rice, vegetables, meat (mainly pork, chicken, and beef), and chili. A popular dish is Ema Datshi, a spicy cheese and chili dish. Tea is a staple, and butter tea is commonly consumed.
Can I participate in Bhutanese cultural activities?
Yes, many cultural tours allow visitors to participate in traditional activities like learning archery, Bhutanese cooking classes, and craft workshops, as well as attending local dances and music performances during festivals.
What should I pack for a cultural tour in Bhutan?
Pack modest, comfortable clothing for visiting monasteries and temples. In the cooler months, bring warm clothing as temperatures can drop, especially in the highlands. It’s also advisable to carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks.
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.
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