Bhutan's culture and nature
From ancient dzongs to black-necked cranes in Phobjikha, a Bhutan between monastic traditions and natural sanctuaries.
Duration
7 days
From
€2,100/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, Honeymoon
The spirit of travel
This journey reveals the most authentic face of Bhoutan, through preserved valleys, sacred forests and high Himalayan landscapes. From Thimphu to Paro, it combines cultural discoveries and immersion in exceptional nature. The capital Thimphu unveils its dzongs and peaceful atmosphere, before giving way to the Phobjikha Valley, home to the emblematic black-necked cranes, where hikes on the Gangtey natural trails offer a privileged encounter with Bhutanese biodiversity. The Dochula Pass, dotted with its chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayan range, marks an essential stop on the journey. The majestic dzongs, ancient monasteries and the ascent of the mythical Tiger's Nest complete this adventure, in a kingdom where spirituality and nature are in perfect harmony.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Bhoutan
Aéroport de Paro → Thimphu
We land at Paro international airport, after a spectacular flight offering stunning panoramic views of the mountains. At the airport we meet our guide and driver who take us through the valleys of Paro and Thimphu towards Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, at an altitude of 2320m.
After some rest and refreshments at the hotel, we begin our city tour at the Buddha Temple, where the tallest seated Buddha statue dominates the city.
The Memorial Chorten is said to be the "most religious monument in Bhutan". People of all ages come to walk around it while reciting prayers.
A few minutes north of the city we visit Tashichho Dzong. Seat of the Bhutanese government since 1952, it currently houses the throne room and the king's offices, the secretariat and the ministries of Interior and Finance. It is also home to the monastic body.
In the evening we stroll leisurely through the city and particularly along the many stands of the Artisan Market.
In Bhutan's capital
In the morning, we head north of the Thimphu valley (15 km away) and enjoy a short hike of 30 to 45 minutes to the Cheri Monastery. This monument built in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal is currently an important centre for teaching and meditative retreat of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu sect.
We continue our day with the learning centre for Bhutanese artists: the School of the Thirteen Arts and Crafts. One can specialise in one of the thirteen arts and crafts, including painting, weaving, sculpture, blacksmithing or embroidery. It is the best place to discover Bhutan's traditional art and crafts and you can observe students learning the different techniques taught at the school.
The Textile Museum is particularly interesting for learning about the national art of weaving.
We finally stroll through the Centenary Farmers Market (open Thursday to Sunday).
In the heart of nature in the Phobjikha Valley
After breakfast, we head to the Phobjikha valley, known for its vast wintering fields that serve as refuges for black-necked cranes, rare and endangered in Bhoutan.
At approximately 3000m altitude, Phobjikha is a vast valley of alpine wetland zones considered the largest and most important in the country. It is often cited for the harmonious coexistence of its inhabitants with nature and the valley also holds great cultural significance.
On the way we stop at the Dochula pass (3150m), decorated with 108 Druk Wangyel Chorten, which were built to celebrate the stability and progress brought to Bhoutan by His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth king. This pass is renowned for its spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan ranges.
We go to visit the Gangtey monastery which overlooks the wetlands dotted with farms and lush forests. We continue with a short walk on Gangtey natural trails (duration: 1h30), considered among the most beautiful short routes in Bhoutan. In the evening, we visit a traditional village house.
From Phobjikha Valley to Punakha Valley
This morning we explore a little more the magnificent Gangtey valley and its typical villages.
We take the road to Punakha. The Punakha valley is a relatively warm region, almost tropical.
Upon arrival in Punakha, we explore Chimmi Lhakhang during a short 45-minute walk that takes us to the Temple of Fertility built in tribute to the Divine Madman Drukpa Kunley whose eccentric customs and practices inspired local folklore. It is here that we can see phallic representations by the thousands!
In the evening, we visit the magnificent Punakha dzong, established at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. It was in this palace-fortress that the first king was crowned. Near the fort, the suspension bridge promises to delight thrill-seekers and photography enthusiasts.
Return to Paro
After our breakfast we head to Paro.
In Paro we visit the royal museum, a former watchtower converted into a national museum overlooking Paro Dzong.
We visit the Paro Dzong, also called Rinpung Dzong. Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal sovereign of Bhoutan, the Dzong houses the monastic community of Paro as well as its administrative bodies. Access to the Dzong is via a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam which offers a superb view of the architectural marvel of the Dzong as well as the life surrounding it.
In the evening we have the choice between resting at our hotel or exploring the craft shops in the town and wandering through the streets.
The Ascent of the Tiger's Nest
After our breakfast, we undertake a rather sporting hike to reach the Tiger's Nest. It is the most picturesque icon and one of the main attractions in Bhoutan. The Tiger's Nest of Taktshang sits on the edge of a steep cliff, 300m above the Paro Valley.
In the afternoon we pass by the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest sacred sanctuaries in the kingdom, dating back to the 7th century.
In the evening we have the choice between resting at our hotel or exploring the craft shops in town and strolling through the streets.
Thank you and have a safe trip back!
Last free time in Bhoutan before heading to the airport, depending on our flight schedule.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Repatriation Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages not included / alcoholic drinks
- Phone calls
- Unlisted transports
- Unmentioned excursions
- Everything not mentioned in "Included"
Included
- Accommodation in 3* hotels (based on 2 people per room)
- Full board
- Entry fees for activities
- English-speaking experienced guide (English-speaking guide as optional add-on with surcharge)
- All transportation
- Government tax and other taxes
- Visa fees
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below provides entry requirements for tourists traveling to Bhutan. Entry regulations may change, and you are strongly advised to verify all information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Bhutan, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of entry and must contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Visa
A visa is required to enter Bhutan for tourism purposes. There is no visa exemption for tourist stays.
The visa is issued exclusively through the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) and only via an authorized tourism operator. Independent travel is not permitted: all tourist visits must be arranged through a certified travel agency, which will handle the visa application on your behalf.
The visa is granted for the duration of your planned stay, generally up to 30 days, with the possibility of extension upon request to the competent authorities.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
All foreign visitors must pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), a daily charge established by the Bhutanese government to support sustainable development and environmental protection.
The current SDF rate is 100 USD per person per night. This fee is typically included in the package offered by the authorized tourism operator and generally covers:
basic accommodation,
meals,
an authorized official guide,
internal transportation.
Payment of the SDF is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Bhutanese visa.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as their own Bhutanese visa.
When a minor travels without one or both parents, a parental authorization or exit permit may be required depending on the regulations of the country of residence.
Health
No vaccinations are officially required for entry to Bhutan. However, due to the high altitude of many regions in the country, it is advisable to consult a doctor before departure to take appropriate precautions, particularly against altitude sickness. Travel and medical insurance that covers emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.
Entry requirements by nationality
Entry conditions may vary depending on your nationality. All travelers are advised to verify the specific requirements for their country by contacting the embassy or consulate of Bhutan in their country of residence, or by visiting the Tourism Council of Bhutan website.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for repatriation assistance and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed to enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisk
Explorer'Cancellation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Supplementary Bank Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Oui, tous les voyageurs étrangers doivent obtenir un visa bhoutanais et s'acquitter d'une Sustainable Development Fee (environ 100 USD par jour). Le visa est obtenu via une agence locale agréée (obligatoire) avant l'arrivée. Notre équipe s'occupe de l'ensemble des démarches pour vous.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Le Bhoutan pratique un tourisme de haute qualité à forte valeur ajoutée. Comptez entre 300 et 450 euros par jour et par personne, incluant la SDF, hébergement, repas, transports, guide francophone et activités. Les vols internationaux (1000-1400 euros A/R) via Delhi ou Bangkok sont en supplément.
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Thimphu Capital
Keeper of Himalayan Traditions, based in Thimphu
Bhutan is a country that moves at its own pace, trying to preserve what truly matters. It's this harmony between nature, culture, and spirituality that I love sharing with travelers.
— Yangchen
