- Immerse yourself in the unique culture and history of Bhutan with a journey that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
- Enjoy the stunning sights of the highest mountains on earth during your flight from Kathmandu to Paro and back, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure.
- Discover Bhutan's deep-rooted Buddhist heritage with visits to ancient monasteries and stupas like Tashichho Dzong and Tsronga Palace, which showcase the country's rich history and tradition.
Bhutan Culture Tour
What to see & do
About Bhutan Culture Tour - 08 days
At a Glance
Durations
8 days
Trip Difficulty
Easy
Activities
Tours
Vehicle
Flight/Tourist bus/Private vehicle
Max. People
15
Trip Highlights
Trip Overview
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the picturesque cities of Bhutan and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people with the Bhutan Cultural Tour. This tour takes you on a voyage of discovery to the ancient home of the royal families, where you can witness the unique way of life and explore the fascinating history of the Buddhist nation.
The journey begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Paro, followed by a scenic drive to Thimpu. In Thimpu, you'll spend a day exploring the entire valley, visiting the Simtokha Dzong and Pangri Zampa Monastery, and several other monasteries and Dzongs. On the second day, you'll drive to Trongsa and explore the city, visiting the Trongsa Dzong and Tibetan monasteries.
Next, you'll make your way to Bumthang, where you'll spend a day traversing the valley and visiting Jakar Dzong, Meber Tsho, and other places of historical significance. After sightseeing in Punakha, you'll return to Paro and catch a flight back to Kathmandu.
The best time to embark on this tour is during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is favorable. While winter is also a suitable season for the tour, monsoon rains during the monsoon season may affect your itinerary.
Himalaya Land Treks ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience by providing you with transportation and accommodation facilities during the tour. Additionally, our licensed guide will accompany you and ensure you don't miss any important sites. We will also handle all necessary permits and passes required for the tour.
Experience the beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan with Himalaya Land Treks' Bhutan Cultural Tour, an unforgettable journey that will leave you with lifelong memories.
Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
- Day01:
Flight from Kathmandu to Bhutan, Paro airport and Drive to Thimpu (2334m/7657ft)
- Day02:
Explore Thimpu and Overnight at Thimpu
- Day03:
Drive from Thimpu to Trongsa (2300m/7546ft)
- Day04:
Explore around Trongsa Palace and Monasteries
- Day05:
Drive from Trongsa to Bumthang (2600m/8560ft)
- Day06:
Bumthang Sightseeing and Drive Back to Punakha (1242m/4075ft)
- Day07:
Final Day at Bhutan, Transfer to Paro Airport and Fly Back to Kathmandu | Farewell Dinner
- Day08:
Rest/Departure
Cost Details
Good to know before trip booking
What's Included
- Enjoy hassle-free airport pick up and drop off services
- No need to worry about Bhutan royalties, tourist fees, and visa fees as they are all included in the package
- Explore Kathmandu with a full-day guided city tour via a private vehicle
- Experience a farewell dinner with traditional ethnic music and dance at one of the best Nepalese restaurants
- Relax in comfortable 3-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu for 3 nights
- Stay in cozy accommodations during the tour
- Enjoy delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the tour
- Don't worry about permits as we will all taken care of for your Bhutan adventure
- Have peace of mind with licensed, experienced, and English-speaking tour guides
- Travel with ease with all ground transportation included in both Bhutan and Nepal.
What's Not Included
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Cost for additional trips.
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu flight tickets.
- The cost incurred during the tour around the city.
- Medical/Travel Insurance.
- All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone, tips etc.
- Tipping to staffs
Dates & Prices
Book your trip with confidence
MAKE AN INQUIRY
Similar Trips
Himalaya Land Treks presents a diverse selection of exhilarating packages.
Bhutan Culture Tour - Itinerary
Day01 Flight from Kathmandu to Bhutan, Paro airport and Drive to Thimpu (2334m/7657ft)
On the first day, you will embark on a breathtaking scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro Airport in Bhutan. Once you arrive, you will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful area surrounding Paro, which includes a visit to the Ta Dzong museum. The museum is home to many exhibits that showcase Bhutan's rich history and culture. Additionally, you will have the chance to visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bhutan.
Following your exploration of Paro, you will make your way to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Thimphu is a vibrant city with many attractions to discover. During your stay in Thimphu, you can visit several places of interest, including religious sites like the Tashichho Dzong and Changangkha Lhakhang, as well as cultural landmarks such as the National Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum. With its bustling markets and colorful streets, Thimphu offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Bhutanese culture that is sure to enchant visitors.
Day02 Explore Thimpu and Overnight at Thimpu
Today, you will have the opportunity to explore the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu, and enjoy a full day of sightseeing. Your first stop will be at the National Textile Museum where you can learn about the history and art of Bhutanese weaving. Next, you will visit the Folk Heritage Museum to experience the traditional way of life in Bhutan, followed by a visit to the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts where you can witness the students learning and practicing various forms of traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts.
You will then proceed to Pangri Zampa Monastery, a 16th-century temple which was once a residence of the first king of Bhutan. Next, you will visit Dechen Chholing Palace, the summer residence of the royal family. After that, you will visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of the third king of Bhutan.
Next, you can visit the Thimphu Zoo which houses several native Bhutanese animal species, including the takin, Bhutan's national animal. You can also visit the radio tower which offers a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley.
For those interested in traditional medicine, you can visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine which offers courses and treatments based on traditional Bhutanese medicine. You can also visit the Traditional Paper Factory to learn about the process of handmade paper making.
Day03 Drive from Thimpu to Trongsa (2300m/7546ft)
Starting from Thimphu, which is the capital city of Bhutan and lies to the east of Trongsa, you will take the Thimphu-Punakha highway. This highway is one of the most scenic drives in Bhutan and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and lush green valleys.
As you proceed towards Trongsa, you will pass through the beautiful district of Bumthang, which is famous for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Bumthang is home to several ancient temples and monasteries, and is also known for its production of honey, cheese, and textiles.
Continuing on your journey, you will reach the Dochu La pass, which is located at an altitude of 3050 meters. This pass is known for its 108 chortens (Buddhist shrines) and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
After crossing the pass, you will drive towards Wangdue, which is a small town located in western Bhutan. Wangdue is famous for its bamboo products and hand-woven textiles, and is also home to the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a fortress-like structure that was built in the 17th century.
As you drive further, you will reach the Black Mountain National Park, which is one of the most biodiverse regions in Bhutan. The park is home to several rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the Himalayan black bear, red panda, and snow leopard.
Continuing on your journey, you will drive towards the Pele La pass, which is located at an altitude of 3420 meters. This pass offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges, and is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan.
As you descend from the pass, you will pass through several villages, including Rukubji and Sephu. These villages are known for their traditional architecture and handicrafts, and offer a glimpse into the rural way of life in Bhutan.
Day04 Explore around Trongsa Palace and Monasteries
Trongsa, located in the central region of Bhutan, serves as a crucial junction road connecting many other cities in the country. The town offers a unique blend of modern and traditional culture and is an excellent place to explore Bhutanese history and architecture.
One of the must-visit attractions in Trongsa is the Trongsa Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan and an architectural masterpiece. The dzong, built-in 1648, is a massive fortress that sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Aside from the dzong, Trongsa offers numerous shops and markets where you can purchase traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and textiles. These markets are bustling with locals and tourists alike and provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Bhutanese people.
Nature lovers will also find plenty to do in Trongsa, with two national parks located nearby. The Centennial National Park is located to the north of Trongsa and offers spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains. Meanwhile, the Jigme National Park covers a vast area in the central and southern parts of Trongsa and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.
For those seeking panoramic views of the Trongsa valley, the Ta Dzong watchtower is a must-visit spot. The watchtower is located on a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Day05 Drive from Trongsa to Bumthang (2600m/8560ft)
On the second day of your journey, you will drive from Trongsa to Bumthang, a distance of approximately 68 km. The drive will take about 2 hours, and you will make a stop at Jakar city in Bumthang.
As you leave Trongsa, you will ascend to the Yotong La pass, which is situated at an altitude of 3425 meters. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and you will be able to take some amazing photographs here.
After crossing the pass, you will descend towards the Chumey valley, which is famous for its traditional woolen textiles. The valley is home to several small villages, including Zugney and Prakar, where you can observe the locals weaving fabrics using traditional techniques.
Continuing your journey, you will reach the Kiki La pass, which is situated at an altitude of 2860 meters. From here, you will have a short drive to Jakar city, the largest town in the Bumthang district. Jakar is home to the Jakar Dzong, which is a fortress built in the 17th century and is now used as an administrative center. The town is also famous for its apple orchards and its vibrant festivals, which are held throughout the year.
During your stay in Bumthang, you can explore some of the other attractions in the area, including the Kurje Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, and the Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). Bumthang is also known for its trekking routes, which take you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Bhutan.
Day06 Bumthang Sightseeing and Drive Back to Punakha (1242m/4075ft)
you will start by exploring the charming town of Bumthang in the early morning. Bumthang is one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan and is known for its rich culture and history. One of the must-visit places in Bumthang is the Tamshing Monastery, which is one of the oldest monastic schools in the valley. The monastery is renowned for its beautiful paintings and sculptures, which depict the life and teachings of Guru Rinpoche.
Another significant attraction in Bumthang is the Mebar Tsho, also known as the Burning Lake. The lake is located about 30 minutes' drive from the town and is considered to be a sacred site for Bhutanese people. According to local legend, Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava) discovered sacred treasures hidden in the lake, which he used to spread Buddhism in Bhutan.
After visiting Tamshing Monastery and Mebar Tsho, you can also explore other cultural landmarks in Bumthang, such as Kurje Lhakhang and Jambey Lhakhang. Kurje Lhakhang is a temple complex that houses three temples and is built on the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock. Jambey Lhakhang is another important temple in Bumthang and is believed to have been built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.
Later in the day, you will drive back to Punakha via Wangdue, leaving Bumthang. On the way, you will pass through two high mountain passes - Pele La Pass (3420m) and Youtong La Pass (3400m), both of which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Finally, you will reach Punakha, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the region.
Day07 Final Day at Bhutan, Transfer to Paro Airport and Fly Back to Kathmandu | Farewell Dinner
Your journey will start in Bhutan, where you will first need to drive to Paro airport. Paro airport is Bhutan's only international airport, and it is located in the Paro Valley, which is surrounded by beautiful mountains and greenery. After checking in, you will board a scenic flight to Kathmandu, Nepal. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest.
Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant markets. The city is located in the Kathmandu Valley, which is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers breathtaking views. Your hotel will be comfortable and provide you with all the necessary amenities to help you relax and unwind after a long journey.
To celebrate the end of your Bhutan trip, you will be treated to a farewell dinner hosted by Himalaya Land Treks. This will be an excellent opportunity to reflect on your journey and share your experiences with other travelers. Himalaya Land Treks is a renowned travel company in Nepal that specializes in organizing trekking and cultural tours in the Himalayan region.
You will spend the night at your hotel in Kathmandu, where you can rest and prepare for your next adventure. Whether you choose to explore the city's historical landmarks or simply relax and soak in the vibrant culture, Kathmandu is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Day08 Rest/Departure
After your tour with Himalaya Land Treks, you have the option to extend your stay in Nepal or return home. If you choose to stay longer, there are many other exciting destinations and activities that you can explore in Nepal, such as visiting Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, or embarking on another trek in the Himalayas.
Alternatively, if you are interested in other tour and trek packages, you can contact Himalaya Land Treks for more information. They offer a wide range of customized tours and treks that cater to different interests, fitness levels, and durations. Whether you want to explore the cultural heritage of Kathmandu, witness the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, or experience the thrill of adventure sports like bungee jumping or paragliding, Himalaya Land Treks can help you plan the perfect trip.
What's Included
- Enjoy hassle-free airport pick up and drop off services
- No need to worry about Bhutan royalties, tourist fees, and visa fees as they are all included in the package
- Explore Kathmandu with a full-day guided city tour via a private vehicle
- Experience a farewell dinner with traditional ethnic music and dance at one of the best Nepalese restaurants
- Relax in comfortable 3-star hotel accommodations in Kathmandu for 3 nights
- Stay in cozy accommodations during the tour
- Enjoy delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the tour
- Don't worry about permits as we will all taken care of for your Bhutan adventure
- Have peace of mind with licensed, experienced, and English-speaking tour guides
- Travel with ease with all ground transportation included in both Bhutan and Nepal.
What's not Included
- Nepal arrival visa.
- Cost for additional trips.
- Meals in the city except for breakfast and other mentioned special dinner.
- Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu flight tickets.
- The cost incurred during the tour around the city.
- Medical/Travel Insurance.
- All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone, tips etc.
- Tipping to staffs