EXPLORE NEPAL · TOURS & TREKS

Glimpse of Bhutan

A journey shaped by the landscapes, people and experiences of Nepal.

Offered by Journey DMC Bhutan

Duration5 days
Illustrative Nepal scenery for Glimpse of Bhutan NEPAL · TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Embarking on a Bhutanese odyssey, your journey starts in the west with the awe-inspiring Paro, home to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery. Heading east to Thimphu, the capital reveals vibrant markets teeming with traditional crafts. Further east, Punakha's enchanting Dzong and Gangtey's serene Phobjikha Valley captivate. In Bumthang, you delve into Bhutan's spiritual heartland with ancient monasteries and traditional textiles. Trongsa's fortress offers panoramic views before reaching the cultural hub of Trashigang. From Tashiyangtse's woodwork to Samdrup Jongkhar's distinct culture in the east, the journey loops back, unveiling Bhutan's breathtaking landscapes, time-honored arts, and cherished way of life.

02 / WHY GO

The memorable moments

Days Activities Accommodation Meal Day1 Arrival at Paro/ Thimpu Hotel [-/L/D] Day2 Thimphu/Punakha Hotel [B/L/D] Day3 Punakha/Paro Hotel [B/L/D] Day4 Sightseeing in Paro Hotel B/L/D] Day5 Paro/ Departure B/L/-]

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 1:: Arrival at Paro/ Thimphu — On the first day of your journey, you'll be arriving at Paro, which is home to the only international airport in Bhutan. After clearing customs and immigration, you will travel to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The distance between Paro and Thimphu is approximately 65 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 2 hours by car. Upon reaching Thimphu, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can check in and freshen up. After your journey, you may want to relax and unwind in your hotel room for a while. Overnight in hotel. [-/L/D] Day Day 2:: Thimphu/Punakha — On the second day after breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Thimphu. BBS Tower: Begin your day with a visit to the BBS Tower. It offers a panoramic view of the Thimphu Valley from an elevated vantage point. The sightseeing from here is breathtaking, providing an excellent introduction to Bhutan's natural beauty. Motithang Mini Zoo: Your next stop is the Motithang Mini Zoo, where you can see the Takin, Bhutan's national animal. The Takin is a unique and fascinating creature that resembles a combination of a goat and a cow. Anim Dratshang (Nunnery): Visit the Anim Dratshang, a nunnery, to experience Bhutan's spiritual side and learn about the life of Buddhist nuns. National Library: Explore the National Library, which houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and texts. It's a place where you can delve into Bhutan's rich literary heritage. School of Art and Craft: Visit the School of Art and Craft to see Bhutanese artisans at work. Bhutan has a rich tradition of craftsmanship, and here you can observe the creation of traditional art forms. Zangthopelri Lhakang: Explore the Zangthopelri Lhakang, a small temple in the heart of Thimphu town. It's a beautiful example of Bhutanese temple architecture. Handicrafts Emporium: Stop by the Handicrafts Emporium to shop for Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. After completing your sightseeing in Thimphu, you will embark on a scenic drive to Punakha. Punakha is a picturesque valley known for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountain peaks. It was Bhutan's capital until 1955 and holds historical significance. Upon reaching Punakha, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and soak in the tranquility of Punakha Valley. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 3:: Punakha/Paro — Your third day in Bhutan will be filled with more exploration as you make your way from Punakha to the scenic Paro Valley. Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong. Punakha Dzong is not only an architectural marvel but also holds significant religious relics and the embalmed body of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. After you visit Punakha Dzong, you will embark on a scenic drive to Paro. The journey offers breathtaking views of Bhutan's landscapes, and you'll pass through valleys, and villages, and possibly encounter yaks grazing in the meadows. Paro is often considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. It's known for its lush greenery, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and the stunning Paro River. Upon arrival in Paro, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is your leisure time. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 4:: Sightseeing in Paro — On the fourth day after breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Paro's most iconic and historically significant attractions. Start your day with a visit to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress that once served as a strategic watchtower to defend the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions in the early 17th century. After exploring Drukgyel Dzong, embark on a remarkable journey to Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as the "Tiger's Nest." This sacred monastery is perched on the edge of a cliff, about 3,000 feet above sea level. In the afternoon, visit Paro Dzong, also known as Rinpung Dzong. This fortress monastery is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and serves as both a religious and administrative center. Adjacent to Paro Dzong, you'll find the National Museum, which is housed in a historic watchtower. It boasts an impressive collection of Thangka paintings, traditional Bhutanese art, religious artifacts, and exhibits that provide insights into Bhutan's history and culture. After these activities, we will return to the hotel. Overnight in hotel. [B/L/D] Day Day 5:: Paro/Departure — On the fifth day after breakfast, we will transfer you to Paro Airport for your onward journey.

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Paro/ Thimphu — On the first day of your journey, you'll be arriving at Paro, which is home to the only international airport in Bhutan. After clearing customs and immigration, you will travel to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The distance between Paro and Thimphu is approximately 65 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 2 hours by car. Upon reaching Thimphu, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can check in and freshen up. After your journey, you may want to relax and unwind in your hotel room for a while. +

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 2: Thimphu/Punakha — On the second day after breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Thimphu.+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 3: Punakha/Paro — Your third day in Bhutan will be filled with more exploration as you make your way from Punakha to the scenic Paro Valley. Begin your day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong. Punakha Dzong is not only an architectural marvel but also holds significant religious relics and the embalmed body of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. After you visit Punakha Dzong, you will embark on a scenic drive to Paro. The journey offers breathtaking views of Bhutan's landscapes, and you'll pass through valleys, and villages, and possibly encounter yaks grazing in the meadows. Paro is often considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. It's known for its lush greenery, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and the stunning Paro River. Upon arrival in Paro, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is your leisure time.+

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 4: Sightseeing in Paro — On the fourth day after breakfast, we will go sightseeing in Paro's most iconic and historically significant attractions. Start your day with a visit to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress that once served as a strategic watchtower to defend the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions in the early 17th century. After exploring Drukgyel Dzong, embark on a remarkable journey to Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as the "Tiger's Nest." This sacred monastery is perched on the edge of a cliff, about 3,000 feet above sea level. +

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

Day 5: Paro/Departure —  +

Confirm daily arrangements with the provider.

KNOW WHAT'S COVERED

What's included in your experience

Included

  • Double room on a sharing basis in government-approved 3-star hotels
  • Bottled mineral water for the entire trip (except water ordered in the hotels and restaurants)
  • English-speaking and knowledgeable guide
  • Comfortable SUV and a reliable driver
  • Museum entrance fees
  • Visa fee and processing charges
  • Tourism Development Fund
  • Government taxes
  • All administrative cost
  • Full service & and assistance on your Bhutan trip.

Not included

  • Airfare (we can arrange your tickets for you if you wish)
  • Any other beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) including water ordered in restaurants and hotels
  • Travel or health insurance
  • Wire transfer
  • Laundry
  • Gratuity/Tip for guides and drivers
PLAN AHEAD

Essential trip information

Fitness & eligibility

2

Meeting point

Paro

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