Trekking & Hiking · moderate
Druk Path Trek
Follow Bhutan’s classic mountain trail from Paro to Thimphu through alpine lakes, forested ridges and remote campsites.
Cultural Tours · Private departure
A Taste of Bhutan
Experience Bhutan’s mountain scenery, living traditions and sacred landmarks on a five-day journey through Paro, Thimphu and Punakha. Explore historic dzongs, cross Dochula Pass, and follow the forest trail to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
From, per person
USD 1,200
Excludes the USD 100/night SDF
- Duration
- 5 days, 4 nights
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Highest point
- 3,120 m
- Group
- Private, 2+
- Best months
- Feb–May, Sep–Nov
- Starts / ends
- Paro airport
Overview
Your journey begins in Paro and continues to Thimphu, where Bhutanese traditions meet the everyday life of the capital. Discover sacred monuments, traditional architecture and local crafts before travelling over Dochula Pass towards the warmer Punakha Valley. In Punakha, explore the riverside dzong and walk across a suspension bridge decorated with colourful prayer flags. Return to Paro for the journey’s highlight: a hike through pine forests to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically above the valley. Designed as a compact introduction to Bhutan, this tour combines cultural visits, scenic drives and time outdoors. The five-day itinerary includes several road journeys and a physically demanding hike, making it best suited to travellers comfortable with an active schedule.
Highlights
- Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Discover Thimphu’s Buddha Dordenma and Memorial Chorten.
- Cross Dochula Pass and see its 108 chortens.
- Walk across Punakha’s prayer-flag-lined suspension bridge.
- Explore Punakha Dzong beside the rivers.
Day by day
5 days, written out properly
Day 01
Welcome to Bhutan: Paro to Thimphu
Meet your guide at Paro Airport and travel to Thimphu. Depending on your arrival time, explore the town and enjoy your first glimpse of Bhutanese life. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 02
Buddha Dordenma, Dochula Pass and Punakha
Begin with a visit to Buddha Dordenma, overlooking Thimphu Valley. Travel across Dochula Pass and pause among its 108 chortens before descending into Punakha. Visit Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the meeting of two rivers.
Day 03
Countryside Walk and Journey to Paro
Enjoy a walk through the countryside to Chimi Lhakhang. Afterwards, travel to Paro through Bhutan’s changing mountain landscapes. Depending on arrival time, explore Paro town and browse its traditional handicraft shops.
Day 04
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Set out on a memorable hike through pine forests to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on the cliffs above Paro Valley. Walk at a comfortable pace, stopping to rest and enjoy the views. Explore the monastery before descending and returning to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 05
Farewell Bhutan
Transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight, carrying memories of Bhutan’s peaceful valleys, cultural treasures and warm hospitality.
What is included
- Accommodation for the nights specified in your itinerary.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner as specified in your itinerary.
- Services of a licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide.
- Tour vehicle and driver for the scheduled itinerary.
- Airport or designated border transfers as specified in your booking.
- Sightseeing and entrance fees for attractions listed as included in your itinerary.
What is not
- The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 per person per night. Quoted separately so you can see exactly what goes to the state and what comes to us.
- The USD 40 visa fee itself
- International flights and travel to the tour’s designated starting point.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses, including shopping, laundry, telephone calls and minibar purchases.
- Optional activities, excursions and services outside the confirmed itinerary.
- Additional costs arising from personal changes to the confirmed itinerary.
- Optional pony hire on the lower section of the Tiger’s Nest trail.
- Optional traditional hot stone bath.
Where you sleep
Four nights in hotels: one night in Thimphu, one in Punakha, and two in Paro.
How you travel
Travel between Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha by private vehicle with a driver. Explore attractions on foot, with short sightseeing walks and a longer uphill hike to Tiger’s Nest.
Questions we get about this trip
Can I customise my itinerary?
Please share your preferred destinations, interests, travel dates and pace when enquiring. We will confirm which changes are possible and provide a revised quotation where needed.
How physically demanding are the tours?
Requirements vary by itinerary. Cultural tours may include walking, stairs and uneven ground, while trekking journeys require greater fitness. Please review the individual tour details and discuss any concerns before booking.
moderate dietary requirements?
Please tell us about allergies, dietary requirements and food preferences in advance. We will check what can be arranged with the accommodation and meal providers on your route.
Can I request a private room?
Please request a private room when enquiring. Availability and any additional charge will be confirmed in your quotation.
Are the tours suitable for children?
Suitability depends on the route, journey lengths, altitude and activities. Share your children’s ages so we can help you choose an appropriate itinerary.
What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothing for changing temperatures, sun protection, and any personal medication. Your route and season may require additional items; trekking tours need a separate equipment list.
Will the itinerary ever change?
Weather, road conditions, local events, or attraction closures may require adjustments. Any necessary changes will be explained, along with available alternatives.
What are the payment and cancellation terms?
Please review the payment schedule and cancellation conditions supplied with your quotation before confirming your booking.
Is this suitable for a first visit to Bhutan?
Yes. This five-day journey introduces Bhutan’s western valleys, cultural landmarks, and Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Do I have to complete the Tiger’s Nest hike?
No. Let us know before your trip if you would prefer an alternative activity.
Operated by
The Last Quest Bhutan Tours & Treks
Licensed by the Department of Tourism, licence no. 50002350. Our own guides and our own vehicles. This trip is not subcontracted.
Cultural Tours · moderate
Into Bhutan’s Heartland
ourney into central Bhutan, exploring sacred valleys, historic fortresses and living traditions before hiking to Tiger’s Nest.
Cultural Tours · moderate
Valleys of Bhutan
Explore Bhutan’s cultural landmarks and peaceful valleys, from riverside Punakha to Phobjikha and Tiger’s Nest.