Temples and Valleys of Western Bhoutan
Eight days in the heart of western Bhoutan, among thousand-year-old dzongs and secret valleys where black-necked cranes land.
Duration
8 days
From
€2,490/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
This 8-day journey invites you to discover the valleys of western Bhoutan through an itinerary combining religious heritage, nature and local traditions. From Thimphu to Paro, passing through the Phobjikha valleys, Punakha and Haa, you will explore some of the kingdom's most emblematic sites.
The route includes visits to numerous temples and dzongs, witnesses to Bhutanese history and culture, as well as several accessible hikes offering beautiful panoramas of the Himalayan landscapes. You will notably walk the Gangtey nature trail and reach the famous Taktsang monastery, better known as the Tiger's Nest. A well-balanced circuit to discover Bhoutan through its landscapes, spirituality and rich biodiversity.
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 Paro valleys and Thimphu towards Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, at 2320m altitude.
After some rest and refreshments at the hotel, we begin our city tour with the Buddha Temple, where the tallest statue of the seated Buddha dominates the city.
The Memorial Chorten is, it is said, the "most religious monument in Bhutan". People of all ages come to walk around it reciting prayers.
A few minutes north of the city we visit Tashichho Dzong. Seat of the government of Bhutan since 1952, it currently houses the throne room and the king's offices, the secretariat and the ministries of Home Affairs and Finance. It is also the home of the monastic body.
In the evening we take a leisurely walk through the city and notably along the many stands of the Handicraft Market.
In the Bhutanese capital
In the morning, we head north of the Thimphu valley (15 km away) and enjoy a short 30 to 45-minute hike to the Cheri Monastery (Cheri Goemba). This monument, built in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, is currently an important teaching and meditative retreat center of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu sect.
We continue our day at the learning center for Bhutanese artists: the School of the Thirteen Arts and Crafts. You can specialize in one of the thirteen arts and crafts, including painting, weaving, sculpture, forging, or embroidery. It is the best place to discover the art and traditional crafts of Bhoutan 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 Centennial Farmers' Market (open Thursday to Sunday).
In the Heart of Nature in Phobjikha Valley
After breakfast, we head towards the Phobjikha valley, known for its vast wintering fields that serve as refuges for black-necked cranes, rare and threatened in Bhoutan.
At approximately 3000m altitude, Phobjikha is a vast valley of wet alpine 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 mountain 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 the Gangtey natural trails (duration: 1h30), considered among the most beautiful short hikes in Bhoutan. In the evening, we visit a traditional village house.
From the Phobjikha Valley to the Punakha Valley
This morning we explore a bit 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.
Arriving 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 will be able to see thousands of phallic representations!
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. Not far from the fort, the suspension bridge promises to delight thrill-seekers and photography lovers.
The Black and White Temples
We are heading towards one of the most beautiful valleys in the country, but also one of the least developed, the Haa valley.
Local legend closely links the history of Haa to that of the Black and White temples: Lhakhang Nakpo and Lhakhang Karpo, which we are going to explore.
We spend the evening wandering around the town.
Towards Paro via the Chelela Pass
After our breakfast we head to Paro.
On the way we explore the Chelela Pass which at over 3900 meters altitude separates the Paro and Haa valleys. The views of Mt Jomolhari (over 7000m) and the Tibetan border are breathtaking.
In Paro we visit the royal museum, a former watchtower converted into a national museum and 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 Bhutan, the Dzong houses Paro's monastic community as well as its administrative offices. Access to the Dzong is via a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam which offers a stunning view of the Dzong's architectural marvel as well as the life surrounding it.
In the evening we can choose between resting at our hotel or exploring the city's craft shops and wandering through the streets.
The Tiger's Nest Trek
After our breakfast, we embark on a fairly strenuous 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 is located 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 and whose creation dates back to the 7th century.
In the evening we have the choice between resting at our hotel or exploring the town's craft shops 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 / alcohols
- Telephone calls
- Unlisted transports
- Excursions Not Mentioned
- Everything not mentioned in "Included"
Included
- Accommodation in 3-star hotels (based on 2 people per room)
- Full board
- Entry fees for activities
- Experienced English-speaking guide (English-speaking guide as an option with additional cost)
- All transport
- 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
