Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan

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tourhub | Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel | Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan | 71355P11 | Map

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6 Days From

~~$2255~~

$2154

Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan

6 Days Starting and ending in Paro International Airport

Visiting: Paro, Dochula, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley

Tour operator:

Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel

Tour code:

71355P11

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

10+

Special diets catered:

We respect dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Private Available:

From:

$2255

$2154 (USD) Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$101

NB: Prices correct on 16-May-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Tucked away deep in the eastern Himalayas between the mighty neighbours – China to the north and India to the south, there lies a tiny independent country that remained isolated for centuries with the rest of the world until it opened its door to the outside world in 1960s. Bhutan is one of the most beautiful and least travelled countries in the world and the last Vajrayana Buddhist Kingdom. Bhutan has both natural beauty and cultural wealth so carefully preserved and passed down from generation to generation, that visitors are not surprised to hear its nickname ‘Kingdom of Happiness’.

On this 6 Days 5 Nights adventure through the hearts of 4 western districts of Bhutan, you’ll go on nature hikes and appreciate pristine natural environment, explore and ramble through rural villages and gain firsthand experience on its culture and people. Come visit Bhutan with us and explore one of the unique and extraordinary countries in the world.

Highlights

Travel to 4 western districts of Bhutan – Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang (Phobjikha valley) and immerse yourself into the mindful Buddhist way of life, away from the materialistic world, and discover why Bhutan is dubbed as ‘Kingdom of Happiness’.
Visit ancient temples and magnificent Dzongs (fortresses) and marvel at the fine wall paintings, exquisite architecture and craftsmanship that still continues to influence the Bhutanese architecture today.
Hike to 8th century sacred site where Bhutan’s iconic landmark, 17th century Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest is located, perched on the face of a precarious 800m rock cliff.
Hike to the 13th century religious site and visit Tango Monastery built in 1689 on the steep mountain side.
Visit Phobjikha, one of the pristine glacial valleys in Bhutan and venture out on an exhilarating nature hike through farmlands and traditional houses and understand the life of people in rural Bhutan.
Spend a night at a family farmhouse and get insights into the life of Bhutanese farmers and participate in preparing traditional cuisine for dinner.
Ramble through isolated farms, quaint villages and picturesque scenery along the way.

Places You'll See

Impressive 169Ft Tall Statue Of Buddha In Thimphu, Bhutan

17Th-Century Paro Rinpung Dzong

The Most Visited Sacred Monument In Bhutan, Paro Taktsang Also Known As Tiger's Nest

The Majestic 17Th-Century Punakha Dzong In Western Bhutan

View Of The Capital City Of Bhutan, Thimphu

A Village Farmhouse In Phobjikha Valley, Western Bhutan

Traditional Foods Ready For Serving

Itinerary

tourhub | Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel | Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan | 71355P11 | Route Map

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Day 1 : Arrive Paro International Airport / Transfer To Thimphu (2334M)

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel, Overnight at Kuenphen Rabten Resort or Hotel Amodhara

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

After receiving you at the Paro International Airport, you will be taken on your first adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan. You will visit the National Museum of Bhutan and Rinpung Dzong (administrative headquarter of Paro district) and then transfer to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.

In Thimphu, if time permits, visit the Institute of 13 traditional arts and crafts (Zorig Chusum) and National Memorial Chorten.

Leisure time to explore the streets of Thimphu.

Day 2 : Hike To Tango Monastery / Transfer To Punakha Valley (1200M)

Location: Dochula

Accommodation: Hotel, Overnight at Hotel Lobesa or Meri Puensum Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After brreakfast at the hotel, hike to the 12th-century religious site called Tango Monastery located on a mountainside north of Thimphu. The roundtrip hike takes about 1.5-2 hours through the pristine forests.

After lunch at one of the traditional restaurants, visit the Buddha Dordema statue located on a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley.

Transfrer to Punakha valley (2.5-hours driving time). En route stop briefly at Dochula, a sacred mountain pass and enjoy stunning views of some of the highest mountains of Bhutan if weather permits.

In Punakha, visit the famous 15th-century Chimi Lhakhang popularly known as the "Temple of Fertility".

Day 3 : Sightseeing Punakha / Transfer To Phobjikha Valley (3000M)

Location: Punakha

Accommodation: Hotel, Overnight at Yueloki Guest House

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive to the nearest roadhead and hike to the picturesque Khamsum Yuelley Namgeyl Chorten located on a serene hilltop overlooking the fertile valley of Punakha. The roundtrip hike takes about 2.5-hours through the terraced rice fields and gentle slopes of pine trees.

After the hike, visit the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan, 17th-cenutry Punakha Dzong and spend some time appreciating the grand architecture of Bhutan and sacred wall paintings. Walk to Bhutan's longest suspension bridge that runs across one of the glacial rivers of Bhutan.

After lunch, transfer to Phobjikha valley (2.5-hours driving time).

Day 4 : Gangtey Nature Hike / Transfer Back To Paro Valley (2200M)

Location: Phobjikha Valley

Accommodation: Hotel, Resort, Overnight in Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will visit one of the largest monasteries in Bhutan, 17th-century Gangtey Monastery and interact with enthusiastic happy monks. From there venture out on an exhilarating nature hike. The trail is about 5km and takes approximately 3 hours through the woods surrounded by splendid nature all around, wonderful meadows, beautiful traditional village houses, farm lands and crystalline streams.

After lunch, transfer back to Paro Valley. On arrival in Paro, visit one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang. It is believed to have been built in 659 A.D. by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet.

Day 5 : Hike To The Famous Tiger's Nest (3120M)

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel, Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After early breakfast at the hotel, you will hike to the famous Paro Taktsang popularly known as Tiger's Nest. Taktsang monastery is located on the face of a sheer 800-meter rock cliff in Paro. It normally takes about 2 hours to reach the monastery from the road head. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Bhutan.Taktsang which literally translates to ‘Tiger’s Nest’, is regarded as one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan.

The roundtrip hike usually takes about 4-5-hours. After lunch at the Taktsang Cafeteria, descend back to the base and drive to Paro town where you will spend some leisurely afternoon.

Later, visit one of the beautiful farmhouses for an authentic home-cooked local cuisine. You can participate in preparing some of the popular local dishes. If interested in a relaxing home span, you can soak in a traditional hot stone bath with believed to have therapeutic, revitalizing benefits for an additional fee of about $15 per person, as charged by the owner.

Day 6 : Departure From Paro International Airport

Location: Paro International Airport

Accommodation: No accommodation on the last day.

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward journey depending on your departure time. Our guide and drive will bid you farewell.

What's Included

Accommodation

Accommodation at 3star hotels mentioned in the itinerary or similar. We will arrange hotels that are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
1 bottle of Mineral Water per person per day

Bottled mineral water in the car
Airport Transfers at Destination

Round trip airport transfers included in the price
All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

Land transport included as per itinerary for the entire duration of your stay in Bhutan
Country Entry Visas

Visa Fee is included in the price. We will also process your visa and send you the approved e-visa letter within 3-4 business days.
Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

All hotel accommodations have wi-fi internet connections.
Fully Guided

Experienced English speaking licensed tour guide included
Local Taxes

All internal taxes are included
Meals – Full Board

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.
Extra experience like traditional archery and dart throwing.
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

Sustainable Development Fee is included.

What's Not Included

Drinks with Meals

All drinks not included except bottled mineral water in the car
International Travel

International flights are not included.

There are only two airlines (Drukair & Bhutan Airlines) operating in and out of Bhutan and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season.

Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore.

We recommend you to book a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March - May and September - November.

If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.
Tipping and Gratuities
Any other expenditures of personal nature
Entry Fees

All entry fees to the museum, monuments and sacred sites are not included

Check out our Q&As

What is the tipping policy?

Tipping is optional but our guide and driver work hard to offer the best experience. You may tip them if you feel satisfied with their services.
Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

You will have some leisure time during the tour but you must follow the time schedule set by the guide.
Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Except for the holders of Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders, all other nationals are required to have a visa to enter Bhutan in advance.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

Yes, all of the accommodations where you will say are equipped with wi-fi internet service.
How long has the tour company been trading?

We have been in the business since the beginning of 2016.

What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Visitors are required to provide a COVID vaccine certificate and negative PCR test taken not more than 72 hours before the date of entry. Facemasks are mandatory at all places. Our guides and drivers will maintain a high degree of COVID-19 safety protocols. Vehicles are regularly sanitized.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

No, you may not join the tour that has already departed. In case you have booked that particular tour, you may join but you will not receive any refund for the portion you have missed. You also have to pay the airport pickup charges because separate transport has to be arranged.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

All of our hotels are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and are regularly inspected by the authority for health and COVID-19 safety regulations.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

You can always change the date of the confirmed booking. We highly recommend you let us know a few months before the original date of arrival to ensure the flights and hotels are available on the new dates especially during the high season. A trip once booked can be postponed to any future date.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

You'll receive a copy of your BHUTAN e-Visa and an outline of the itinerary with the list of hotels where you will stay before you travel. We always let our guests know in advance the hotels they will stay in. No surprises and disappointments! If you are coming for a trekking adventure, we will send you a suggested packing list.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Kaye Norton, Australia

Bhutan a unique experience

25-Nov-2019

This tour surpassed all my expectations. As a very experienced solo female traveler, the professionalism, care and attention by Bhutan Acorn Tours and my guide and driver, made my stay a very rewarding experience. Look forward to returning to learn more about this unique beautiful country

P. Brigida, Manila, Philippines

my new gold standard for tours

05-Mar-2020

incredible sights, very knowledgeable, competent, and charming tour guide, expert and careful driver, well-appointed accommodations, perfect itinerary! i have nothing more to wish for, I have achieved the top item on my bucket list. Lhamo and Kencho helped make it a reality. Bhutan is a beautiful place but my itinerary favorites are the easy hike across Probjikha Valley and (of course) the not-so-easy hike to Paro Taktsang. Bhutan Acorn Tours and Travel made my dreams come true!

LV Cort, California, USA

Outstanding tour of Bhutan

15-Mar-2020

Outstanding! Highly recommend Bhutan Acorn Tours! They are very professional. They got us our visa in 2 days, stayed in contact through WhatsApp, and provided an outstanding guide, Dema, and an outstanding driver, Karma. We had such an amazing trip in this beautiful country. We booked our tour through Viator.

Ivy I, Manila

Absolutely amazing!

16-Oct-2019

We definitely made the right choice when we decided to book our tour with Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel. This Bhutan trip has been in my friend's bucket list for sometime so we wanted to have memorable and iconic moments in this trip. And we did! We took the cultural and nature tour where we visited a couple of monasteries, the Phobjikha Valley and , of course, the famous Tiger's Nest. For me one of the best moments of the trip was wearing the traditional Bhutanese clothes. It made the experience more authentic. During our trip, our guide and driver were very friendly and very accommodating with our requests. My friends and I are not good with spicy food so our guide made sure that our food were not that spicy. Our guide was well-informed about the places we visited and the stories she shared especially about the divine mad man intrigued me and convinced me to buy a book about him. On the walls of one of the monasteries that we visited were paintings depicting the life of Buddha and our guide explained it to us effortlessly. My knowledge of Buddhism definitely improved. Phobjikha Valley is stunning with pine trees, mountains, green grass all over the place. Very peaceful. In our last day, we hiked to Tiger's Nest. It is not an easy hike. We saw other tourists wearing flip flops or sandals and they were having difficulty hiking. So make sure to wear proper footwear. Food was okay. Accommodation was very good. We had a fireplace inside our room in Phobjikha Valley so that was pretty nice. Overall, we definitely had an amazing time in Bhutan. Kudos to our always smiling guide, Lhamo :) Highly recommended.

Ingrid E, Denmark

Fantastic tour, dream come true!

25-Nov-2019

The trip was fabulous, dream come true! The country is very beautiful and breath-taking and it was very well organized. The guide was very helpful and knowledgeable about the culture and history with captivating stories. We were lucky that the weather was good. The Bhutanese people are very friendly and chatty all around. I recommend Bhutan as your next travel destination! Thank you, Bhutan Acorn, for making our trip unforgettable!

Marina, Hong Kong

Kadrin Chhe La Bhutan Acorn ❤️🙏🏽

17-Dec-2019

We are very fortunate to have chosen Bhutan Acorn as our tour guide. Me and my friend have a blast experience every day and since it’s just the two of us, they make our tour very flexible. Whenever we reached some place, they never rushed us so we have time to enjoy the place. Sonam was our tour guide, he’s like sunshine, always in high spirit and he always tried his best to give excellent service and make sure that we’re alright and happy. Jigme was our driver, he made the 2 and 3 hours ride so smooth even in the not so good condition of the road. Both of them were always ready whenever we needed them. Lhendup and Karma are the owner of the tour and even they came up to see us in person. They treat us like a family and gave us unforgettable experience of a life time. Everything is perfect from the beginning to the end. Thank you so much for such amazing service.

Lorraine Richards, Australia

Amazing Trip

10-Feb-2020

Dema and Kencho met me at Paro airport coming in from India and I was immediately put at ease with their friendliness and Kencho's careful driving through the mountainous roads in a very comfortable, warm and solid SUV car. Unfortunately I became very ill the next day (something I had eaten in India)and everyone, Dema, Kencho, Karma, Lhendup and the hotel staff were so caring and attentive and offered to take me to hospital. Luckily I was a lot better after a good sleep and some hydration salts they gave me. I felt comforted that I was in good hands being on my own in a foreign country. The rest of the trip was amazing and I didn't feel that I had missed anything seeing monastaries, dzongs, a museum, shopping, lunch at a farmhouse, attempting archery and the beautiful scenary. The weather was beautiful and sunny during the day and the hotel rooms were warm and comfy at night. They made sure I was going at a pace I was happy with not feeling 100%. I feel that I made some beautiful friends in Bhutan and I would love to return for a festival and do the Tiger Nest hike. I definitely would recommend Acorn Tours who genuinely go above and beyond from the visa and flight bookings to caring for you as a person. Thank you Dema, Kencho, Karma and Lhendup.

Read all 7 reviews

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~~$2255~~ $2154 (USD)