The Best of Bhoutan
From ancient dzongs to secret valleys, a journey to the heart of the last Himalayan kingdom.
Duration
10 days
From
€2,750/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, Honeymoon
The spirit of travel
One of Bhoutan's most popular itineraries is the one that winds through the valleys located in the western part of the country. This journey allows you to fully appreciate the attractions of the Kingdom of the Dragon. We discover Bhutanese hospitality, constantly evolving landscapes and the great richness of Buddhist culture. Among the country's most important attractions, note the Ta Dzong Museum, the Rimpong Dzong and its cantilevered wooden bridge, the Taktshang Monastery located in the Paro valley, the national Memorial Chorten, the Changangkha temple dating from the 12th century and the national library exhibiting ancient scriptures in the capital of Thimphu. After crossing the Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,050 m, offering a panoramic view of the Himalayas, we continue our adventure in the subtropical valley of Punakha where the Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakang (the temple of the god Madman) are nestled.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Bhutan
Aéroport de Paro → Thimphu
We land at Paro International Airport. Upon arrival, we meet our English-speaking guide and driver who will take us to the capital in one hour through the Paro Valleys and Thimphu (at 2,320 m).
Cheri Monastery and discovery of Bhutanese craftsmanship
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 center for teaching and meditative retreat of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu sect. On the way back, we will stop for a picnic by the river.
We continue our day at the learning center for Bhutanese artists: the School of Thirteen Arts and Crafts. Students can specialize in one of the thirteen arts and crafts, including painting, weaving, sculpture, forging, and 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.
A few minutes north of the city we visit Tashichho Dzong. Seat of the Bhoutan government since 1952, it currently houses the throne room and the king's offices, the secretariat, and the ministries of Interior Affairs and Finance. It is also home to the monastic body.
We finally stroll through the Centenary Farmers Market (open Thursday to Sunday).
Visit of administrative and religious centers
After breakfast, we leave Thimphu to head to Punakha by car via the national road. We thus leave the cold region for the warmer, almost tropical region of the Punakha valley. We stop along the way for a short coffee break at the Dochula Pass and its 108 stupas. When the sky is clear, visitors are treated to a magnificent view of the Himalayan range.
Upon arrival in Punakha, we explore the village of Chimmi Lhakhang during a short 45-minute walk that will take you to the Temple of Fertility built in tribute to the Divine Madman Drukpa Kunley whose eccentric customs and practices inspired local folklore. This is where 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 enthusiasts.
Visit to Trongsa Dzong
We take the road to Trongsa, which means new village. Whether you come from the west or the east, you must cross mountain passes to reach this city founded in the 16th century. The landscapes are spectacular and for kilometers the city's dzong in the distance seems to taunt us to the point that we wonder if we will ever get there!
Visit to Kurje Lhakhang
After breakfast, we head to Bumthang. Along the way, we stop at the Yathra factory, dedicated to weaving colorful wool. Yathra is a fabric originating from central Bhoutan distinguished by its deep color.
In the evening, we visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang and Jakar dzong. We also explore the town of Jakar.
Visit to Tang Ugyencholing Palace
Early in the morning, we visit the Tang Ugyencholing palace restored in the 19th century. Along the way, we enjoy a short hike in the Tang valley.
In the afternoon, we set out to discover a farm and a few craft shops.
On the way to Phobjikha
After breakfast, we head towards the Phobjikha valley, known for its vast wintering fields that serve as a refuge for rare and endangered black-necked cranes in Bhoutan. In the afternoon, we visit the Gangtey monastery which overlooks the wetlands dotted with farms and lush forests. We continue our trek on the Gangtey natural trails (duration: 1.5 h), considered among the most beautiful short routes in Bhoutan. In the evening, we visit a traditional village house.
Monastery and Museum Visit
In the morning transfer towards Paro.
Once arrived, we will visit after lunch the Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After that, we head to the Ta Dzong, a clock tower whose role was to protect the Rinpung Dzong during inter-regional wars in the 17th century. We then pass through the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest sacred sanctuaries in the kingdom dating back to the 7th century. We end our first day of discovery at the Drukgyel Dzong, a fort erected in 1646, with a charming village nestled at its feet.
In the evening in Paro, we have the choice between resting at the hotel or exploring the town's craft shops.
Tiger's Nest Trek
After breakfast, we embark on a hike to reach Tiger's Nest. This is the most picturesque icon and main attraction of Bhutan. Taktshang Tiger's Nest Monastery sits on the edge of a sheer cliff, 300 m above the Paro Valley.
In the afternoon, you have the choice between a relaxing break at the hotel or an adventure in the neighboring villages.
End of trip
Car transfer to the airport; we will adapt the departure time to your 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
- Phone calls
- Transports not mentioned
- Excursions not mentioned
- Everything that is not mentioned in "Included"
Included
- Accommodation in 3* hotels (based on 2 people per room)
- Full board
- Entrance fees for activities
- Experienced English-speaking guide (English-speaking guide optional with supplement)
- 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
