Western Bhutan Highlights

Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

Route

Paro to Thimphu to Punakha to Phobjikha to Paro

Best For

Nature lovers, first-time and returning visitors, couples, families

Start and End

Paro International Airport

Western Bhutan is home to the kingdom’s most iconic landmarks, most visited valleys, and most diverse experiences. This comprehensive itinerary covers all of western Bhutan’s highlights: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the cultural capital Thimphu, the former royal capital Punakha, and the extraordinary Phobjikha Valley. Whether you are trekking, exploring Dzongs, spotting Black-Necked Cranes, or simply enjoying the scenery, the Western Bhutan Highlights itinerary offers an all-encompassing and deeply satisfying Bhutan experience.

Trip Highlights

  • Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
  • Explore Thimphu’s top cultural landmarks
  • Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong
  • Experience the serene Phobjikha Valley and Gangtey Monastery
  • Scenic Dochula Pass with 108 chortens
  • Nature walk with Black-Necked Crane spotting (October to February)
  • Rice field walk to Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha

Day 1

Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro International Airport. Meet your guide. Transfer and evening walk through Paro town.

Day 2

Tiger's Nest Hike

Full day hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery. Afternoon visit to Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum.

Day 3

Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu. Visit Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Motithang Takin Preserve, and handicrafts market.

Day 4

Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Scenic drive to Punakha with extended stop at Dochula Pass. Visit Punakha Dzong and the Suspension Bridge.

Day 5

Punakha to Phobjikha

Morning rice field walk to Chimi Lhakhang. Drive to Phobjikha Valley. Afternoon: visit Gangtey Monastery and guided nature walk.

Day 6

Phobjikha to Paro

Full morning nature walk in Phobjikha for Black-Necked Crane spotting (in season). Scenic return drive to Paro.

Day 7

Paro Day

Visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Free afternoon for leisure or optional archery demonstration.

Day 8

Departure

Transfer to Paro Airport for departure.

What is Included

What is Not Included

Accommodation as per package tier

International flights to and from Paro

Licensed local guide throughout

Bhutan visa fee (USD $40 per person)

Private vehicle and driver

Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Airport transfers

Personal expenses and tips

Bhutan visa assistance

Travel insurance

SDF processing assistance

Meals unless specified

All sightseeing as per itinerary

Optional activities not in itinerary

Emergency contact support

 

Scenic stop at Dochula Pass

 

Nature walk in Phobjikha Valley

 

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