Get a fascinating glimpse into the ancient culture of Bhutan on this short Bhutan Highlights itinerary. Visit the quaint capital city, Thimpu, the historic Punakha Dzong and hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Explore the beautiful Paro Valley, with its magnificent Dzong, and enjoy the rich and fascinating traditional culture of the Bhutanese people. Experience the highlights of this beautiful and unique country in a short but comprehensive trip, ideal for travellers who are short on travel time but who want the best out of their Bhutan vacation.

US $2,195* 

5 NIGHT tour
DEPARTS: paro, bhutan

Availability: All year - choose your own dates
Minimum group size: 1 person (subject to surcharges)

* Price based on twin-share accommodation. Single-room supplement available for US$55 per night, subject to availability. Please note that groups of two people will also need to pay a two-person supplement.
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here  

ITINERARY

DAY 1

Paro: Your journey begins in the beautiful Paro Valley, where you will stay in a charming Bhutanese-style hotel located on the edge of a forest. You will be met at Paro Airport by your guide. Explore the charming town centre and stroll across the picturesque wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge. As time allows, visit the formidable Rinpung dzong (fortress) of Paro and the National museum.
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 2

Punakha: Wake up to breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks in your rustic villa. Drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3,140m) offering stunning panoramic mountain views. Visit the temple of fertility at Chimi Lhakhang, and the beautiful Punakha Dzong.
Driving time: 3.5 hrs
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 3

Thimpu: Return over the Dochula Pass to Thimpu and explore this quirky little capital of Bhutan. Visit the Textile museum and visit the Big Buddha statue.
Driving time: 2.5 hrs
Overnight: Thimpu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 4 

Paro: Explore Thimphu, and visit the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts. Continue to Paro in the afternoon and explore the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. 
Driving time: 1.5 hrs
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 5 

Paro: Hike to the iconic, cliff-hugging Tiger's Nest monastery. This 3-4 hour hike up through blue pines, passing water-powered prayer wheels, leads you to this holy site. The ancient monastery clings miraculously to a sheer cliff, rising 1,000 metres from the valley floor. The views are magnificent over the Paro Valley, and the only sounds to be heard are prayer flags blowing in the wind.
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 6

Depart Paro