Cultural Tours · moderate
A Taste of Bhutan
Discover Bhutan’s cultural treasures across Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, with a memorable hike to Tiger’s Nest.
Cultural Tours · Private departure
Valleys of Bhutan
Discover the contrasting landscapes of western Bhutan on a seven-day journey through Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha and Paro. Visit historic dzongs, explore Gangtey Monastery, enjoy a gentle valley walk, and finish with the memorable hike to Tiger’s Nest.
From, per person
USD 1,750
Excludes the USD 100/night SDF
- Duration
- 7 days, 6 nights
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Highest point
- 3,250 m
- Group
- Private, 2+
- Best months
- Mar–May, Sep–Nov
- Starts / ends
- Paro airport
Overview
Begin in Thimphu, discovering sacred monuments and the everyday life of Bhutan’s capital. Cross Dochula Pass into Punakha, where a magnificent riverside dzong, colourful prayer flags and cultivated fields create a welcoming introduction to the valley. Continue to Phobjikha, a broad mountain valley surrounded by forested slopes. Visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the landscape on foot, taking time to appreciate its villages and peaceful surroundings. Wildlife sightings depend on the season and are never guaranteed. Return to Paro for traditional architecture, local handicrafts and the journey’s final highlight: a hike through pine forest to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This itinerary combines cultural discovery with time outdoors, including several mountain drives and one demanding day hike.
Highlights
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery above Paro Valley.
- Discover Thimphu’s Buddha Dordenma and Memorial Chorten.
- Admire the 108 chortens at Dochula Pass.
- Explore Punakha Dzong and its riverside setting.
- Visit Gangtey Monastery overlooking Phobjikha Valley.
- Enjoy a scenic nature walk through Phobjikha.
Day by day
7 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, enjoy a relaxed walk through the capital and browse local shops for your first glimpse of Bhutanese life.
Day 02
Discover Bhutan’s Capital
Explore Thimphu’s blend of tradition and modern life. Visit Buddha Dordenma and the National Memorial Chorten, discover local arts and handicrafts, and enjoy time wandering through the town.
Day 03
Across Dochula Pass to Punakha
Travel across Dochula Pass and pause among its 108 chortens. Continue down into Punakha Valley and visit Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the meeting of two rivers. Enjoy a relaxed walk nearby before settling into your hotel.
Day 04
Gangtey Monastery and Phobjikha Valley
Leave Punakha and travel to the open landscapes of Phobjikha Valley. Visit Gangtey Monastery before following the Gangtey Nature Trail through woodland and meadows. T
Day 05
From Phobjikha Valley to Paro
Enjoy a peaceful morning in Phobjikha before beginning the return journey west to Paro. Stop for breaks and photographs along the way. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short walk through Paro town or relax at your hotel.
Day 06
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Follow a forest trail uphill to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on the cliffs above Paro Valley. Walk at a comfortable pace, stopping to rest and admire the views. Visit the monastery before descending and returning to your hotel for your final evening in Bhutan.
Day 07
Farewell Bhutan
Transfer to Paro Airport for your onward journey, taking home memories of Bhutan’s valleys, monasteries 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.
- Guided walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, if covered by your package price.
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 traditional hot stone bath.
- Optional pony hire on the lower section of the Tiger’s Nest trail.
Where you sleep
Six nights in hotels or lodges: two nights in Thimphu, one in Punakha, one in Gangtey or Phobjikha, and two in Paro.
How you travel
Travel between valleys by private vehicle with a driver. Explore attractions on foot, with short sightseeing walks, the Gangtey Nature Trail 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.
How much walking is involved?
Most sightseeing involves short walks. The Gangtey Nature Trail offers a countryside walk, while Tiger’s Nest is the most demanding hike.
Can the walks be adjusted?
Your guide can discuss shorter options and adjust the pace where practical. Please tell us about your walking preferences before booking.
Does this tour include longer drives?
Yes. Travel between valleys follows winding mountain roads. The journey from Gangtey to Paro is the longest driving day, with breaks along the way.
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.
Trekking & Hiking · moderate
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Into Bhutan’s Heartland
ourney into central Bhutan, exploring sacred valleys, historic fortresses and living traditions before hiking to Tiger’s Nest.