7-day Bhutan Tour

The morning flight from Kathmandu takes you to Paro, the international airport of Bhutan. At the airport, you will be greeted by a representative of the Taleju Adventure who will then transfer you from Paro to Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan in a private vehicle. It will be about one and half hour drive depending on the traffic. Upon check in at hotel, the rest of the day is for you to rest and explore Thimpu.

After your breakfast, your tour begins with a visit to one of Thimphu’s most iconic landmarks, Buddha Dordenma. This massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha overlooks the valley and houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues inside, offering a serene atmosphere and great photo opportunities.

Next, head to the scenic Dochula Pass, a breathtaking viewpoint known for its panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan ranges. The pass is also famous for its 108 memorial chortens (stupas), which add to its spiritual and visual appeal.

Continue your journey to Tashichho Dzong, a grand fortress that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government and houses a temple, courtyards, and even a meditation cave, which is accessible via a short uphill walk. Lunch can be enjoyed at a nearby restaurant depending on the day’s schedule and convenience.

The final stop of the day is the Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), a revered religious monument built in memory of the third King of Bhutan. Surrounded by prayer wheels and a peaceful environment, it offers a quiet space for reflection, meditation, or prayer. Overnight in Thimpu.

After breakfast, you will be embarking on a scenic road trip to Wangdue Phodrang, located approximately 1 to 2 hours away. The drive is smooth and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the landscape and pass through several notable areas, including Changbangdu, Yusipang, Dochula, Mendrelgang, and Lobesa-Metsina, before reaching Wangdue Phodrang. Upon arrival, visit the town’s main attraction—the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. This historic fortress, originally built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, sits at the confluence of the Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers. The Dzong is not only a significant religious site but also marks the location of Bhutan’s former second capital. Nearby, you can also observe the Wangdue cremation grounds, which hold cultural and spiritual importance. Overnight in Wangdue Phodrang.

Today, you will drive to Gangtey Valley, roughly taking about 2 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass by several notable landmarks, including the Wachey Lhakhang and Wakha Lhakhang—two peaceful Buddhist temples that reflect the region’s spiritual heritage. The route also takes you through Manikyangsa, Nubding, and Dungdungneysa as you ascend toward the scenic valley.

Upon arrival, visit the iconic Gangtey Monastery (Gangtey Gompa), a revered center of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery stands majestically overlooking the valley and is a spiritual hub for locals and monks alike. If visiting during the winter months, you may also be fortunate enough to witness the graceful black-necked cranes, which migrate here from Tibet. Overnight in Gangtey Valley.

After breakfast, you will begin your road journey to Paro and takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. En route, make a stop at the renowned Chimi Lhakhang, located in the Punakha District. Perched on a round hillock, this Buddhist monastery was built by Drukpa Kagyu lama Ngawang Chogyal. Also known as the Fertility Temple, Chimi Lhakhang is a pilgrimage site for childless couples seeking blessings for parenthood. After exploring the monastery, continue your journey toward Paro, stopping for lunch at a suitable restaurant along the way. The route passes through Dochula, Babesa, Langdru, and Chokha, offering scenic views of the Bhutanese countryside. Upon check in at your hotel in Paro, you may rest and explore the charming streets of Paro.

Dress comfortably and appropriately, as today includes a scenic hike to one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks—Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The hike takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours one way, depending on your pace. The trail winds through pine forests, fluttering prayer flags, and stunning viewpoints. Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Taktsang is a revered pilgrimage site where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated after flying to the cave on the back of a tigress. The complex features four main temples and eight meditation caves, four of which are accessible to visitors.

If time and energy allow, you may also explore other highlights of Paro, such as the Rinpung Dzong, Paro River, the National Museum (Ta Dzong), or the breathtaking Chele La Pass—one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. The additional visits will depend on time and your interests. Overnight in Paro.

A Taleju Adventure representative will escort you to the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home, you may plan your next adventure