Short Bhutan Tour

Tashichho Dzong Image
Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge Image
Dochula Pass Image
Tigers Nest Monastery Image
Tashichho Dzong Image
Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge Image
Dochula Pass Image
Tigers Nest Monastery Image
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5 Days Trip Starting from
AUD 2550/ Person
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Duration
5 Days
Difficulty
N/A
Accomodation
3 Star Deluxe
Group Size
2-6 People
Meals
As Mentioned
Transport
On Private
Max Altitude
3700m
Start Point
Paro
End Point
Paro

Trip Overview

Looking for a serene getaway amidst enchanting landscapes and captivating secrets? If yes, then the Land of Thunder Dragon is a perfect destination for some of the best travel experiences. The Short Bhutan Tour is a fantastic option for those looking to immerse themselves in the unique culture and spectacular splendour of this wonderful country. It offers an easy-going and enjoyable experience that allows you to truly appreciate all that Bhutan has to offer. This 5-day Bhutan tour is perfect for those with a tight schedule who are seeking a quick escape from the daily hustle and bustle of life. Bhutan offers an abundance of natural wonders and historical treasures, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking an authentic experience. This country is located on the southern slopes of the eastern Himalayas and boasts breathtaking natural beauty and a rich history filled with centuries-old monuments. 

Bhutan is famous for being known as 'The Land of the Thunder Dragon' and 'The Happiest Country', which makes it a perfect place for relaxation and new adventures. Bhutan is home to a variety of incredible wonders, including ancient landmarks, centuries-old religious sites, and fortresses. The landmarks are adorned with captivating art and authentic architectural designs that will leave you in awe. In addition to the awe-inspiring pilgrimage sites, Bhutan is renowned for its untouched natural beauty and diverse range of plant and animal life. The entire country is teeming with lush vegetation, sprawling valleys, and breathtaking landscapes that will transport you to a world of enchanting beauty. 

Bhutan is a truly captivating country, with its enigmatic culture and breathtaking natural beauty. The country has an abundance of captivating culture and beauty spread throughout its various districts. It boasts an array of unique and awe-inspiring landmarks, including Buddhist religious sites, fortresses, monasteries, and countless other remarkable places. The country boasts historical buildings that have stood the test of time, some dating all the way back to the 7th century. These remarkable structures showcase exquisite Bhutanese artistry, adding an authentic touch to their allure. During your 5-day trip, you can visit three prominent places in Bhutan: Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Here are some of the places you will be able to explore: 

Thimphu Attractions

Thimphu serves as the capital and largest city of Bhutan. The location of this place is in the west central part of Bhutan. Not only is it one of the largest cities in Bhutan, but it also serves as the government seat of the country. The city houses important political government offices. Thimphu is home to various fascinating historical sites that you will explore and visit during your tour. Bhutan is a true gem for those who are passionate about history and architecture.

Some of the major attractions that you will visit during your stay in Bhutan are as mentioned. Situated on the outskirts of Paro Valley, Tachogang Lhakhang is a serene monastery. Tachogang is translated as "Temple of the Hill of Excellent Horses" in its native language. The landmark was constructed by Thangtong Gyalpo, who experienced an encounter with God involving a horse named Balaha, believed to be an emanation of Avalokiteshvara, during his meditation. To access the monastery, visitors must cross the Pachhu (Paro River) via an iron bridge. This iron bridge is truly remarkable, as it was constructed in the 14th century by the renowned architect Thangtong Gyalpo. Another great attraction is the National Memorial Chorten, also referred to as the Memorial Stupa or Thimphu Chorten, which is situated in Doeboom Lam in the southern central area of the city. The Chorten was built in 1974 as a tribute to the third king of the Wangchuck Dynasty. The stupa is easily recognisable due to its gorgeous white-washed walls adorned with fascinating golden annexes. 

Next is Simtokha Dzong, also known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang, a small monastery that has a rich history and deep spiritual significance. This Dzong is located in the southern region of Thimphu and is one of the rare monuments that was constructed in the early 17th century and remains completely preserved in its original form. Such architectural designs were not made in that period, making them unique. Simtokha Dzong is a highly popular attraction in Bhutan, known for its expertly crafted Bhutanese architecture. Another one is Tashichho Dzong, also known as Tashichho Dzong, a historical fortress-like monastery nestled along the bank of the Wang Chu river in Thimphu. Tashichhoe was originally called Dho-Nyon (Blue-Stone) Dzong. Tashichho means "Fortress of Auspicious Doctrine" in its native language. The stunning beauty of this Bhutanese landmark is truly captivating, with its white painted walls and iconic red roofs that never fail to catch the eye of visitors. The beauty of the building is enhanced by the lush green valley and open space surrounding the site. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, it has also been home to several significant government seats since 1968. 

Paro Attractions

During your trip, you will explore three unique destinations, including the captivating town of Paro. Paro is renowned for its stunning beauty and, of course, its national treasures. Paro serves as the starting point of the trip due to its convenient location as the only international airport in the country. Paro is home to some of the most magnificent Buddhist monasteries, ancient fortresses, and stupas that beautifully showcase the authentic art and culture of Bhutan.

During your time in Paro, you'll explore the stunning landmarks and embark on a day hike to one of the world's most iconic monasteries. The monastery is known by different names, including Taktsang Monastery and Tiger's Nest Monastery. The Buddhist monastery is situated in a unique location atop a hill, perched on a cliff, which adds to its captivating charm and beauty. The monastery can be reached by hiking through a stunning trail nestled within the alpine forests. The monastery is perched on a cliff, offering a surreal and captivating view. From this viewpoint, you can also admire the beauty of the Paro Valley. The entire monastery in Paro Valley is a remarkable place to experience and explore, with significant spiritual and cultural values. The monastery is situated on top of a cliff, providing a vantage point for the Paro valley and offering incredible panoramas of the celestial valley. Lastly, you will visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Paro. The temple is situated in the northern part of Paro town and is known by various names, like Lho Kyerchu or Kyerchu. The sacred Jewel of Bhutan is believed to have been built in the 7th century.

Punakha Valley

Punakha Valley is a well-known destination for its breathtaking landscapes and stunning beauty. Punakha is also widely recognised for its two stunning rivers, Pho and Mo, which flow through the valley. These rivers are among the most prominent in Bhutan. Punakha is renowned for its mesmerising Dzong and historical sites that you will have the opportunity to explore during your tour. The breathtaking landscape only adds to the allure of this destination. 

Another impressive attraction during your Bhutan tour is Dochula Pass, located at an elevation of 3,100m above sea level. The path to Punakha from Thimphu takes you through a small pass that offers an amazing view of Thimphu city and the majestic snow-capped mountain ranges. On top of the pass, there are 108 memorial chortens or stupas built, known as ‘’Durk Wangyal Chortens’’. This pass becomes a peaceful stop for a tea break after a long drive. Another remarkable religious site is Chimi Lhakhang, a religious site in Punkaha, which is a remarkable landmark known as the fertility temple. The Lhakhang is a popular destination for people from all over who come to seek blessings from the Lama (Monks). The locals have a strong belief in this temple and often visit to seek blessings for their newborns. They also come here to name their babies. PunakhaDzong 

What to Expect?

The Short Bhutan Tour is a truly remarkable and rejuvenating experience that can be enjoyed in just 5 days. Set out on a captivating journey to the enchanting kingdom nestled beneath the majestic Himalayas, where untouched nature awaits. Prepare to set off on a journey to Bhutan, a captivating land known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon." Immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty and experience its rich and distinctive culture. Bhutan possesses an array of captivating and enigmatic beauties that are unparalleled. From its pristine nature to its rich history and culture, the country offers a truly unique experience. During your 5-day tour in Bhutan, you will have the opportunity to visit three prominent cities and truly immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the country. 

You will begin your journey in Paro, where you will be warmly welcomed by your tour guide and driver, who will be with you for the duration of your trip. Bhutan takes great pride in its rich culture and traditions, which are evident from the moment you arrive. Your guide will be dressed in traditional attire, immersing you in the authentic experience from day one. After your pick-up, you will drive towards Thimphu, where you will stay overnight and also explore the city area. You can visit some of the intriguing sites, like monasteries, national treasures, and ancient landmarks. As you approach your destination, you'll notice the immaculate natural surroundings and unique architectural structures that set it apart from other places, reflecting a rich tradition of design. After arriving at the hotel, you'll explore the places mentioned in the itinerary before returning to the hotel to relax. Bhutan is a deeply religious country that wholeheartedly embraces Buddhism and incorporates its teachings into every aspect of life. The majority of landmarks you will visit are either Buddhist religious sites or ancient landmarks.

The next day, you'll explore the charming city of Punakha and spend a delightful night there. During your drive from Thimphu to Punakha, you'll come across a small pass called Dochula Pass. Here, you can take a tea break and enjoy the incredible panoramic view of Thimphu and the surrounding mountain ranges. The pass itself is truly captivating, with 108 Chortens adding to its surreal beauty, all set amidst the vibrant greenery of the surrounding vegetation. Punakha offers a breathtaking display of natural beauty and rich historical sites, making it a must-visit destination. From there, you can easily make your way back to Paro. Once you arrive in Paro, you'll explore the rich culture and art of Bhutan through its stunning architecture and historical sites. Paro is renowned for its jaw-dropping appeal and is home to some of the world's most iconic monasteries, including the Tiger's Nest monastery perched atop a cliff. The monastery is truly a magnificent attraction that you need to see during your tour. This monastery can only be accessed through a short hike that takes around 3-4 hours on foot. The path to reach the sanctuary involves a thrilling journey through a dense alpine forest, offering a unique blend of adventure and tranquilly. This tour offers a truly exceptional experience with every step. The trail is a serene oasis, enveloped by the stunning views of nature's flora and fauna. It is an incredibly popular activity. Once you reach the monastery, you can explore the surroundings and enjoy a splendid view of the Paro valley. It's a win-win situation.

After completing the hike, you'll visit a final attraction before heading back to the hotel. Alternatively, for those seeking an authentic Bhutanese experience, you can choose to indulge in a hot stone bath spa. This traditional herbal bath is known for its rejuvenating effects, offering a chance to relax and unwind. Please note that this activity is optional. Before you end your tour, make sure to savour the delectable cuisine of Bhutan and capture every single flavour of the journey through various aspects. 

The Short Bhutan Tour offers a truly remarkable and astounding journey to Bhutan, ideal for individuals in search of a brief and revitalising experience. This tour is a 5-day journey where you will have the opportunity to explore three major cities in Bhutan. Over the course of these five beautiful days, you will delve deep into the unique traditions and breathtaking beauty that this country has to offer. You will explore a historical and religious landmark surrounded by pristine nature and beauty. The country is renowned for its rich religious traditions and vibrant culture, which you will have the opportunity to learn about and immerse yourself in. Join us for an extraordinary tour that combines the dazzling splendour of a country with its rich cultural heritage. Experience the captivating allure of a rich culture and incredible landscapes on an exhilarating tour.

Tour Highlights

  • Unique cultural exposes in the ‘’Land of Thunder Dragon’’.
  • Sightseeing in major cities of Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha.
  • Explore the pristine natural environment and amazing landscape of Bhutan.
  • Celestial valleys and ambiance throughout the Bhutan tour.
  • A rewarding hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery through a dense, quiet forest.
  • Fascinating architecture of Bhutan in the form of Dzong, Fortress, and Monasteries.

Outline Itinerary

DAY 01: Arrival in Paro, Drive to Thimphu. 

DAY 02: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass.

DAY 03: Drive to Paro, En route Sightseeing.

DAY 04: Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike.

DAY 05: Departure, Have a Safe Journey!

Detailed Itinerary

Expand all
Day 1

Arrival in Paro, Drive to Thimphu.

Jen Pa Ley Sho (Welcome) to the Land of Thunder Dragon. After landing at Paro International Airport, finish with your airport formalities and baggage collection. Outside the airport, your guide will be waiting for you; after meeting them, they will drive you to your hotel in Thimphu. 

After driving from Paro to Thimphu, check in at your hotel, rest your bags, and get ready to be thrilled by the beauty and culture of this amazing country. Start your journey by exploring the National Memorial Chorten built in the loving memory of the third Dragon King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Here you get to see a beautiful circumambulation ritual around the Chorten. After that, move towards yet another culturally rich monument, Simtokha Dzong, and soak in your first culturally immersive day in Bhutan. This Dzong mainly serves as an institute of language and culture studies and houses several sculptures and traditional paintings of various religious figures and deities.

To end your day, visit the most admired Tashichho Dzong. This building is not only an attraction site but also serves as one of the important political capital buildings. In the evening, the whole building is lit with beautiful lights. The base of the building shines like snow, and the top of the building is lit with an iconic red colour. You will see the true beauty of the building along with the pretty ambience.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner Included.

Day 2

Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass.

Have your warm breakfast at the hotel and enjoy the Bhutanese cuisine before you go out to explore the history, culture, and myths of the country. Today, you'll be heading to Punakha, but before you reach your destination, you'll visit Kuensel Phodrang, also known as the Buddha's Point, in Thimphu. Overlooking the celestial backdrop of Thimphu Valley, which is one of the iconic valleys of this country, Bhutan. The giant figure of the Great Buddha Dordenma, is one of the biggest statues of a sitting Buddha in the world. Next is Tachogang Lhakhang, a serene monastery situated besides the Wang Chu River. To access the historic site, you will need to cross an ancient iron bridge.

Note: If you like adventure, you can cycle from Kuensel to Changangkha in Thimphu. This picturesque route lets you experience the valley's beauty. The well-maintained trail offers amazing views and a fun ride. You'll get two hours to enjoy the stunning countryside throughout your bike journey. You can walk or cycle, but keep in mind that this is an optional activity. 

On the way to Punakha, you will stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where you will have tea and explore the pass. DochuLa Pass is a collection of 108 memorial chortens in honour of the late soldiers. Besides having a deep history, this place also provides exquisite views of the snow-laden Himalayas, followed by the green valleys. After visiting DochuLa Pass, drive towards Chimi Lhakhang, the Fertility Temple. This Monterey is well-known throughout Bhutan as a fertility-inducing centre. Thousands of people visit the monastery to get blessings from saints. Last but not least, visit the most iconic landmark, Punakha Dzong, which is the second largest and second oldest landmark present in Bhutan. It takes around 3 hours to drive from Thimphu city. This majestic building lies between the two main rivers, Mo Chu (Female) and Pho Chu (Male). In the spring season, this place looks out of the world with all the flowering trees around the landmark.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.

Day 3

Drive to Paro, En route Sightseeing.

Today, you'll be heading back to Paro, and along the way, you'll visit some of the captivating attractions. To reach Paro, you will travel along the Thimphu highway and explore some nearby attractions along the way. 

After breakfast, you will depart from your hotel and drive towards Changangkha Lhakhang, which is a significant temple for children born in Thimphu, as it is believed that the protective deity of children resides in the particular temple. The children are blessed by the Phurba (Ritual dagger) and given a sacred thread. The next stop is Motithang Takin Preserve (3,700m). The area is a forested preserve that mimics the Takin’s natural habitat. Here you will see the national animal of Bhutan free in its natural habitat. Not only does the preserve allow you to see these animals up close, but you also get a panoramic view of the nearby valley. 

Note: If you want to watch Takin up close, visit the preserve at feeding time when the takings are close to the fence.

Stop by a restaurant and have lunch before you go any further sightseeing. After lunch, visit Zilukha Nunnery, locally known as Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery. It is a small and traditional nunnery that is located in the hills of the Himalayan country of Zilukha, Thimphu, overlooking Tashichho Dzong. This nunnery houses around 60 nuns. After that, explore yet another impressive monastery, Rinpung Dzong, also known as the ‘’Fortress on the Heap of Jewels’’. This majestic landmark dominates the valley with its glamour. This building is considered to be the most beautifully designed Dzong when it comes to Dzong. Afterwards, head towards the hotel to enjoy a delicious dinner and wrap up your day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.

Day 4

Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike.

Today, you will go on an exciting journey to the Tiger's Nest Monastery through a short day hike. A trip to Bhutan is incomplete without a visit to the most iconic monastery in the world, Taktsang Monastery/Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120 m), most commonly known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. You will have an early morning breakfast, stretch your legs, and get ready for a short hike. You will drive up to the hike start point, and from there, you will start walking towards the monastery.

This hike is challenging, which is the primary reason why this wonderful destination remains uncrowded. Once you've passed the dense forest, you will get a fantastic glimpse of the shiny monastery, somehow aggressively pressed on the wall over the valley floor. Take a tour of the monastery inside and out, along with a panoramic view of the Paro Valley. This quiet spot was used as a meditation cave in the 8th century and later as a monastery in the 17th century. 

After completing your hike, you'll visit a nearby temple, which holds great significance in Bhutan as one of its notable monuments. The location is approximately 8 km away from the starting point of the hike, which can be reached by car in about 15 minutes. Kyichu Lhakhang is a twin temple and also one of the oldest temples built in the 7th century. This place is also known for its mysterious orange tree that bears oranges throughout the year. In the evening, savour your free time at the pub, visit the local markets of Bhutan, and enjoy your time collecting souvenirs and memories in the hypnotic streets of Bhutan. Or just relax and enjoy the hot stone bath (optional), as it is the most popular and admired thing to do before you leave this mysterious country.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.

Day 5

Departure, Farewell!

Today is the final day of your trip to Bhutan. You will be free until your flight time. Our local representative will drop you off at Paro International Airport 3 hours before your flight. Carry loads of souvenirs, memories, and lifetime experiences back home, and Have a safe home return! We hope you enjoyed the trip! If you decide to stay longer, we at Altitude Himalaya will do everything we can to make your stay unique and fun. 

Meal: Breakfast Included.

Our Trip Includes

  • All Airport pickup and drop-offs on a private basis.
  • Bhutan visa fee. (visa on arrival)
  • A private A/C vehicle for all the mentioned transportation and sightseeing. 
  • All (04 nights) hotel accommodations as mentioned at respective places. 
  • All mentioned sightseeing entrance fees. 
  • Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotel. 
  • Lunch at the government-allowed tourist restaurant. (as mentioned) 
  • All Bhutan government and local tourism taxes.
  • A government-licensed well-experienced tour guide throughout the trip. 
  • Licenced driver and guide’s allowance, salary, fuel cost, and toll/taxes.
  • Bhutan Sustainable Development fee USD 100/night effective from 20 June 2022.

Our Trip Excludes

  • Personal expenses.
  • International flights. (To and from Paro)
  • Services that aren’t mentioned above. 
  • Travel insurance to visit Bhutan. (Travel insurance is compulsory to visit Bhutan)
  • Tips to driver and tour guide. (Not required but recommended)

Travel Guide and Tips

The information provided about the Short Bhutan Tour Package is comprehensive. Please feel free to contact us 24/7 for any assistance you may need. We will be available on WhatsApp to assist you instantly. You can write an email if this trip doesn't fit your vacation schedule and requirements. Altitude Himalaya aims to offer the best possible travel experience to customers. Depending on the needs of the visitors and the size of the group, we customise each vacation package. We will put together a bespoke itinerary just for your private group.

Trip Booking Process: To book a trip, please send us your travel requirements via email or WhatsApp message. Once we review your requirements, we will provide you with a quotation for the trip based on the information you have provided. You can then either confirm the booking or make any desired changes. Afterwards, we will need some of your information, including your travel date, passport, and travel insurance. This will allow us to book your accommodations and other necessary arrangements. Please proceed with the payment by sending us the advance amount. Once the advance payment is received, we will provide you with the vouchers. Once you have completed your trip, you can travel and enjoy your holiday as outlined in the itinerary. Afterwards, we will provide you with a review website where you can share your feedback and suggestions for any positive changes we can make. Your input is mandatory and greatly appreciated.

Travel Insurance: It is essential to have travel insurance in place before starting a journey to a new destination, particularly when it involves adventurous activities. Travel insurance provides coverage for various risks, including the loss of personal belongings and unforeseen expenses. Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, including accidents. It is crucial to have travel insurance when visiting other countries. When travelling to Bhutan, travel insurance is mandatory, particularly for trips to Bhutan.

Packing List Suggestions: Properly packing for a trip is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Deciding what to pack for a trip can be quite a challenge. It's important to prioritise comfort while travelling. Bhutan boasts a unique geography, characterised by varying elevations that greatly influence the temperature and climate. Therefore, when travelling to Bhutan, it is essential to pack appropriate and comfortable clothing that suits the different seasons. When it comes to packing clothing items, it's best to opt for layered garments instead of thick ones. Layered clothing offers more versatility and comfort compared to a few bulky items. It's important to consider the season you're travelling in to ensure you pack appropriately. 

Do’s  And Don’t:

  • Select the ideal time to travel. 
  • Select a reputed tour/ travel organisation. 
  • Efficient packing is the key. 
  • Carry all the necessary paperwork.
  • Listen to the guide and follow the rules and regulations.
  • Ask for permission before taking pictures and videos of people and places.
  • Remorse shoes before entering the religious landmarks.
  • Avoid wearing hats and sunglasses inside religious places. 
  • Respect the culture and people of the area.
  • Travel for experience and not for the sake of travelling.
  • Don’t litter, put trash in its place. 

Weather In Bhutan

The ideal time to visit Bhutan is during the months of October to December, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear and sunny. The months of January and February bring colder temperatures; starting from March until April, the weather becomes dry and pleasant. As spring arrives, the valley is adorned with a breathtaking display of colourful rhododendron blooms. If you enjoy the rainy season, you have the option to plan your trip for July and August or consider postponing it until September. 

Why with Altitude Himalaya?

Altitude Himalaya is one of Australia’s growing travel companies, providing excellent service to its clients. We believe in providing quality experiences and memories. We are concerned about maintaining and following our own standard service, which includes a private transfer and at least 3-star hotel accommodation. Additionally, we also operate our trips in Nepal, India, and Tibet.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What cultural practices and traditions are highlighted in a Bhutan tour?

    The Bhutan tour provides an up-close view of various customs and cultural practices, like the circumambulation ceremony at the National Memorial Chorten, where you may see people taking part in spiritual activities. The next activity is visiting temples, like the one at Chimi Lhakhang, which illuminates Bhutan's traditional practices, including the fertility rites associated with the building and its intriguing mythology, among many others. You will experience Bhutan’s profound regard for its spiritual legacy, traditional arts, and the preservation of cultural values throughout the tour.

  • What kind of architecture can be seen in Bhutan?

    Bhutan is known for its distinctive traditional architecture, characterised by massive dzongs, monasteries, and chortens. Dzongs like Tashichho Dzong and Punakha Dzong are prime examples, featuring whitewashed walls and red and gold roofs with elaborated woodwork. Monasteries such as the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery showcase Bhutanese engineering ingenuity, built into cliffsides with stunning views. The architecture you see during the tour reflects a harmonious blend of spirituality and nature, with intricate designs that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

  • Can I try on the traditional Bhutanese outfit during my visit?

    Yes, you can try on the traditional Bhutanese outfit, known as the ‘’Gho’’ for men and ‘’Kira’’ for women. However, this experience will cost extra add-ons as it is not included in the given tour package. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and capture some memorable moments along with photos.