- Embark on a breathtaking journey to Bhutan, also known as the "land of the thunder dragon."
- Immerse yourself in the unique Bhutanese culture, deeply rooted in the teachings of Buddhism.
- Explore the stunning fortresses, or Dzongs, that dot the Bhutanese landscape, each with a rich history and unique architecture.
- Marvel at the exquisite natural beauty of Bhutan, with its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
- Take in the surreal Himalayan panorama during the flight to or from Bhutan, an experience you'll never forget.
- Engage in meaningful cultural exchanges with the friendly and welcoming people of Bhutan, learning about their way of life and traditions.
- Indulge in delicious Bhutanese cuisine, featuring spicy flavors and unique ingredients like yak meat and cheese.
- Make memories that will last a lifetime on this unforgettable journey to Bhutan with Himalaya Land Treks.
Bhutan Short Trek
What to see & do
About Bhutan Short Trek - 09 days
At a Glance
Durations
9 days
Trip Difficulty
Easy
Activities
Trekking and Tours
Vehicle
Flight/Tourist bus/Private vehicle
Max. People
10
Trip Highlights
Trip Overview
Nestled between two of the world's largest countries, China and India, lies Bhutan - a small yet captivating nation that often gets overlooked on the world map due to its size. Despite its modest dimensions, Bhutan boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, a distinct culture, and a way of life that is unique to the country. If you're looking for an authentic travel experience that will take you off the beaten track, look no further than the Bhutan Short Trek offered by Himalaya Land Treks. This trip is carefully designed to explore every facet of Bhutan, from its natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage.
Bhutan is renowned for its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage, which is evident in the majestic Dzongs, Gompas, and traditional buildings that dot the landscape. As a destination for learning about the ancient teachings of Buddhism, Bhutan embodies the sacred scriptures, following them to the letter. Known as "the Land of the Thunder Dragon," the country experiences frequent thunderstorms, and the Bhutanese believe that the Thunder Dragon, or Druk, brings peace and prosperity. This mythical creature has been a symbol of Bhutan for centuries, and even appears on the country's national flag.
The Bhutan Short Trek begins with a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu, followed by a flight to Paro, the site of the only international airport in Bhutan. From there, we follow the banks of the Paro Chu River to our first night's accommodation in Paro. The following day, we make our way to Thimpu, the Bhutanese capital, where we take a day to explore the city, including a scenic hike to the Wandi Tse Gompa.
Our journey then takes us through the stunning Bhutanese landscape, following the rivers that mark the country's terrain, until we reach Punakha. We then return to Paro, where the adventure draws to a close, and we prepare for our return journey to Kathmandu.
At Himalaya Land Treks, we have been leading trekkers and adventurers on incredible journeys for over a decade. Our Bhutan Short Trek itinerary is carefully crafted to ensure that you don't miss a thing, with expertly trained guides who will help you learn about the local lore, culture, and history. With our unparalleled service and attention to detail, you can be sure that your journey to Bhutan will be an unforgettable experience.
Itinerary
Trip day to day detail itinerary
- Day01:
Arrival at Kathmandu (1,320m/4,330ft)
- Day02:
Kathmandu City Sightseeing
- Day03:
Fly to Paro (2200m/7218ft)
- Day04:
Paro to Thimpu (2334m/7657ft)
- Day05:
Hike to Wangdi Tse Gompa and Sightseeing around Thimpu
- Day06:
Thimpu to Punakha (1242m/4075ft)
- Day07:
Punakha to Paro (2200m/7218ft)
- Day08:
Fly back to Kathmandu | Farewell Dinner (1,320m/4,330ft)
- Day09:
Final Departure Day
Cost Details
Good to know before trip booking
What's Included
- Enjoy airport pick-up and drop-off services for added convenience.
- All Bhutan royalties, tourist fees, and visa fees are taken care of.
- Take a full-day guided city tour of Kathmandu with a private vehicle.
- Savor a farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese restaurants with traditional ethnic music and dance.
- Stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights.
- Enjoy accommodation during the entire tour.
- Indulge in delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the tour.
- All necessary permits for Bhutan are included.
- Be guided by licensed, experienced, and English-speaking tour guides.
- All ground transportation in Bhutan and Nepal is taken care of.
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 Short Trek - Itinerary
Day01 Arrival at Kathmandu (1,320m/4,330ft)
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will go through the immigration process and collect your baggage. After exiting the airport, you will be greeted by a representative from your trekking company, who will transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Day02 Kathmandu City Sightseeing
You will start your tour by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. This ancient Buddhist shrine is situated on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the city. You can observe the monkeys that inhabit the temple complex, and explore the various temples, stupas, and shrines.
Next, you will visit the historic Durbar Square, which is home to several ancient temples and palaces, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can observe the unique Newari architecture of the buildings, and learn about the history and culture of the Kathmandu Valley.
After Durbar Square, you will head to the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, which is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can observe the rituals and ceremonies that take place at the temple, and learn about the Hindu religion and culture.
Finally, you will visit the ancient Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath, which is one of the largest in the world and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can observe the unique architecture of the stupa, and explore the many monasteries and shrines that surround it.
Day03 Fly to Paro (2200m/7218ft)
You will embark on a journey to the beautiful city of Paro, which is located in the Paro Valley in Bhutan. Paro is home to the only international airport in Bhutan, and the flight from Kathmandu offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Indian city of Sikkim.
After approximately one hour of flight time, you will land at Paro International Airport, which is situated on the banks of the Paro Chuu River. The landing itself is quite a scenic experience, as the airport is surrounded by mountains and offers breathtaking views of the valley.
After going through immigration and collecting your baggage, your guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in Paro. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic drive and take in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Paro Valley.
Once you reach your hotel, you can relax and unwind after the journey. You may also want to explore the town of Paro and its many cultural and historical sites, including the iconic Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum of Bhutan.
Day04 Paro to Thimpu (2334m/7657ft)
You will explore the beautiful town of Paro, visiting some of its most iconic landmarks. Your guide will take you to visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that dates back to the 17th century. You can explore the intricate architecture of the dzong, which includes a central tower, courtyards, and prayer halls.
Next, you will visit the National Museum of Bhutan, which is housed in an ancient watchtower and showcases the rich culture and heritage of Bhutan. You can observe a wide range of artifacts, including traditional Bhutanese clothing, weapons, and art.
After exploring Paro, you will make your way to the capital city of Thimphu, which is approximately 2 hours away. The journey follows the Paro Chu River back to the airport before continuing on the Paro-Thimpu Highway. As you travel, you can enjoy the scenic views of the mountains and valleys that make up this beautiful region.
Once you reach Thimphu, you can explore the bustling city and its many attractions, including the famous Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-monastery that serves as the seat of government in Bhutan. You can also visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa that is dedicated to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Day05 Hike to Wangdi Tse Gompa and Sightseeing around Thimpu
On this day, you will enjoy a relaxing trek to the beautiful Wangdi Tse Gompa, which offers stunning views of the Trashi Chhoe Dzong and the upper Thimphu valley. The trek begins from Sangaygang or the BBS tower, where the trail ascends through hilly landscapes towards the monastery.
After reaching the monastery, you will begin your descent towards the Dechen Phodrang Monastic School. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Once you reach the hotel, you can take a brief rest before heading out to explore the local areas of Thimphu. You can experience the cultural vibrancy of the city, visit local markets, or indulge in some traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
Overall, this day offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation, making it a must-do on your Bhutan itinerary. You will spend the night in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, where you can enjoy the comforts of your hotel and reflect on the day's adventures.
Day06 Thimpu to Punakha (1242m/4075ft)
After departing from the capital city of Thimphu, we will follow the Thimphu Chu River and head towards Babesa before continuing further east towards Yusipang. Along the way, we will pass by the Royal Botanical Garden before arriving at Mendrelgang, which marks our entrance into the Punakha district.
As we continue our journey, we will follow the Puna Tsang Chu River and pass through several colorful villages before finally reaching the town of Punakha. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Bhutanese countryside and provides a unique opportunity to observe the daily life and culture of the local people.
In Punakha, we will have the chance to explore the historic Punakha Dzong, which is considered one of the most beautiful and important dzongs in Bhutan. This majestic fortress is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers and offers a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan's rich history and culture.
Day07 Punakha to Paro (2200m/7218ft)
On our final day in Bhutan, we will retrace our steps from Punakha to the city of Paro. We will travel along the same familiar routes that we took when we first arrived in Punakha, following the scenic Puna Tsang Chu River.
As we make our way towards Paro, we will travel alongside the Thimpu Chu River, which flows through the capital city of Thimpu. Along the way, we will stop at several viewpoints to take in the stunning panoramic views of the Bhutanese landscape.
Midway through our journey, we will reach the confluence of the Thimpu Chu and the Paro Chu Rivers, where we can take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside. This area is also known for its beautiful traditional Bhutanese bridges, which are worth exploring.
After lunch, we will continue our journey towards Paro, where we will spend our final night in Bhutan. Paro is a beautiful and peaceful city, surrounded by scenic valleys and snow-capped mountains. You can take a leisurely stroll through the town, visit the local markets, or simply relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Overall, our final day in Bhutan will be a memorable one, filled with stunning natural scenery and peaceful surroundings.
Day08 Fly back to Kathmandu | Farewell Dinner (1,320m/4,330ft)
On this day, you will have an early start to the day as you make your way back to Kathmandu from Paro. You will have one last opportunity to enjoy the stunning beauty of Bhutan before flying over the mesmerizing Himalayas at Sikkim.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your guide will take you directly to your hotel where you can freshen up and relax. You will have some free time to explore the local region, do some last-minute shopping or visit any places of interest that you may have missed earlier in your trip.
In the evening, Himalaya Land Treks will host a farewell dinner for you to celebrate the end of your journey. You can enjoy delicious Nepali cuisine while reflecting on the unforgettable experiences you have had during your trip.
Overall, this day marks the end of your amazing journey through Nepal and Bhutan, and you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Day09 Final Departure Day
On the last day of your itinerary, our representatives will arrange for your transportation from your hotel in Kathmandu to Tribhuvan International Airport. They will ensure that you reach the airport on time for your flight back home.
We hope that you had an enjoyable and memorable trip with us, and that you were able to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Nepal and Bhutan. We would love to hear about your experiences and feedback on our services, so please do not hesitate to share them with us.
What's Included
- Enjoy airport pick-up and drop-off services for added convenience.
- All Bhutan royalties, tourist fees, and visa fees are taken care of.
- Take a full-day guided city tour of Kathmandu with a private vehicle.
- Savor a farewell dinner at one of the finest Nepalese restaurants with traditional ethnic music and dance.
- Stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights.
- Enjoy accommodation during the entire tour.
- Indulge in delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the tour.
- All necessary permits for Bhutan are included.
- Be guided by licensed, experienced, and English-speaking tour guides.
- All ground transportation in Bhutan and Nepal is taken care of.
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
Check List
Documents and Money
- A valid passport and a few passport-sized photographs
- Nepalese visa
- Travel insurance
- Cash/Credit card (cash is recommended in the trek)
Clothing
- Warm hat, sunhat/bandana, scarf, sunglass, gloves - wool or fleeced and Gore-Tex
- 3-4 Long and short sleeve t-shirts
- Heavy fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Wind and waterproof jacket & pants
- Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes (often worn before departure)
- Running shoes or evening sandals
- Hiking socks (ensure boots fit socks combination)
- Wool jumper/sweater/fleece (1 lightweight during summer and one heavyweight or two lightweights during winter)
- Long sleeve shirts
- Top and bottom thermals
- Extra warm clothes during winter (December to March)
- Underwear
Trekking Gear & Supplies
- A duffel bag (provided to each trekker for trekking by Himalaya Land Treks in Kathmandu) Waterproof day pack (25-30 liter) to carry your personal belongings during the day
- Minimum 1-liter refillable aluminum or Nalgene polypropylene water bottle
- Down (rated for -18 degree centigrade) sleeping bag (provided by Himalaya Land Treks in Kathmandu)
- Trekking poles
- Torch/flashlight - headlamp style is ideal
Health Care
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, and lip balm
- Wet wipes, toilet paper (as necessary)
- The first-aid kit; should contain lip balm, aspirin, bandages, anti-histamine, Imodium, or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea.
- Personal medical prescriptions
- Soap, toothbrush/toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hairbrush, face lotion
- Mask, hand sanitizer
- Rehydration powder
As per your interest
- Book
- Writing pad
- Boards games or playing cards
- Power bank
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards