Get a fascinating glimpse into the ancient culture of Bhutan on this short Bhutan Highlights itinerary. Visit the quaint capital city, Thimphu, 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

Best time for this tour: March to May and October to December
Minimum group size: 1 person (subject to surcharges)

* Price based on twin-share accommodation. Single-room supplement available for US$45 per night, subject to availability.
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 be met at Paro International Airport by your guide and driver. Explore the charming town centre and stroll across the picturesque wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge up to the magnificent Rinpung Dzong above. Visit the National Museum before continuing to the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Continue to your hotel to relax.
Driving time: 30 minutes
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,200 m

DAY 2

Punakha:  After breakfast, drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3,140m) offering stunning panoramic mountain views. Visit Chimi Lhakhang the Fertility Temple and the beautiful Punakha Dzong.
Driving time: 3.5 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 3

Thimphu: Return over the Dochula Pass to Thimphu and explore this quirky little capital of Bhutan. Visit the National Textile Museum, the Great Buddha Dordenma Statue and attend the flag lowering ceremony at Trashi Chho Dzong, the seat of government.
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 4 

Paro: Explore Thimphu, and visit the School of 13 Arts and Crafts and the Motithang Takin Preserve. Later, continue to Paro for the night.
Driving time: 1.5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 5 

Paro: Hike to the iconic, cliff-hugging Tiger's Nest monastery. This 5- hour round trip 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.
Driving time: 1 hour
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 6

Depart Paro