Trip Overview
Bhutan is a land where Gross National Happiness is the primary measure of progress. This journey offers a rare glimpse into a truly intact Himalayan ecosystem and a culture that remains one of the least disturbed in the world. From the majestic views of Mt. Everest during your flight to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery clinging to a cliffside, this tour is an immersion into Buddhist traditions and raw natural beauty.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival (1,350 m)
- Arrival: Meet and greet at Kathmandu International Airport.
- Evening: Traditional Nepalese welcome dinner with a cultural program.
- Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02: Fly to Paro & Drive to Thimphu (2,334 m)
- The Journey: A spectacular 1-hour flight past Mt. Everest and the Langtang range.
- Sightseeing: Tachogang Temple (Iron Bridge Temple) and the majestic Tashichho Dzong.
- Stay: Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 03: Thimphu Full Day Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit the Giant Buddha Statue, Memorial Chorten, and Dupthop Lhakhang.
- Afternoon: National Library, Painting School, and the traditional paper factory.
- Evening: Observe traditional archery at Changlimithang.
- Stay: Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 04: Thimphu to Punakha (1,242 m)
- Highlights: Drive over Dochula Pass (3,050 m) for panoramic Himalayan views.
- Visits: Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) and the stunning Punakha Dzong.
- Stay: Hotel in Punakha.
Day 05: Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley (3,000 m)
- Nature: Travel through Oak and Rhododendron forests to the glacial valley of Phobjikha.
- Culture: Visit Gangtey Monastery and see the winter home of the Rare Black-Necked Crane.
- Stay: Hotel in Phobjikha.
Day 06: Return to Paro
- The Drive: Scenic 5-hour drive back to Paro with a stop at the historic Simtokha Dzong.
- Stay: Hotel in Paro.
Day 07: Paro Valley Sightseeing
- Exploration: Visit Drukgyal Dzong (ruins), Kyichu Lhakhang, and the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong).
- Stay: Hotel in Paro.
Day 08: Hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery)
- The Icon: A 5-6 hour round-trip hike to the monastery perched 900m above the valley floor.
- Spirituality: Visit the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century.
- Stay: Hotel in Paro.
Day 09: Fly to Kathmandu
- Return: Morning flight back to Nepal. Free afternoon for rest or last-minute shopping.
- Stay: Hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 10: Depart or Extend Nepal Tour
- Final Morning: Breakfast at the hotel followed by departure or optional tour extensions.
Tour Cost & Details (4-Star Option)
Based on 2 People Traveling Together
- Cost Per Person (USD): $3,550
- Cost Per Person (AUD): $5,025
Accommodations Envisaged
- Kathmandu: Nepali Ghar / Aloft Hotel
- Thimphu: The Capital / Hotel Ariya
- Gangtey: Pinewood / Similar
- Punakha: RKPO Green Resort / Lobesa Boutique
- Paro: Kaachi Grand / Tashi Namgay Resort
Inclusions & Exclusions
What’s Included:
- Kathmandu/Paro/Kathmandu Airfare (Economy Class).
- Bhutan Visa Fees and Government Royalty ($100/day).
- Full board in Bhutan (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- English-speaking guide and all entrance fees.
- Complimentary Cordyceps tea tasting in Bhutan.
- Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing.
What’s Excluded:
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu.
- Nepal Visa fees ($50 for 30 days).
- Meals in Kathmandu (except breakfast and welcome dinner).
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, bar bills).
- Pony hire for Tiger’s Nest hike (approx. $25).
Contact Paradise Tours & Travel
- Phone: 1300 217 567 | 0468 427 351 | +61 3 9970 7000
- Email: admin@paradisetoursandtravel.com.au
- Web: paradisetoursandtravel.com.au
- Address: 471-475 Sydney Rd, Shop 21 Walkers Arcade, Coburg, VIC 3058, Australia