Adventure Friendship
Bhutan Cultural Tour
Trip Overview
Trip Highlight
- Paro Valley – Explore Paro Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and the fascinating National Museum.
- Thimphu – Discover Bhutan’s capital, visiting the Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, paper factory, and the School of Arts & Crafts.
- Punakha Dzong – Admire Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, built in 1636, surrounded by lush landscapes.
- Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley – Visit the only Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan and spot endangered Black-necked Cranes in this glacial valley.
- Wangdiphodrang – Explore a traditional Bhutanese town with striking mountain views.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) – Hike to Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery perched 900m above Paro Valley.
- Arts & Handicrafts – Experience Bhutan’s traditional art forms including thangkha painting, mask making, and weaving.
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 : Arrival in Paro (2,300m) – Transfer to Thimphu (2 hrs drive)
Arrive at Paro International Airport with spectacular Himalayan views, including Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake. Meet your guide and transfer to Thimphu. En route, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and Paro Dzong if time permits. Overnight in Thimphu.
- Day 2 : Thimphu Sightseeing
Full-day sightseeing in Bhutan’s capital: Memorial Chorten, National Library, Drubthob Nunnery, Folk Heritage Museum, Handmade Paper Factory, School of Arts & Crafts (Zo Rig Chusum), Gold & Silver workshops, Zangtopelri Lhakhang, Handicraft Emporium. Overnight in Thimphu.
- Day 3 : Thimphu – Punakha (1,250m) via Dochu La Pass (3–4 hrs drive)
Drive to Punakha via Dochu La Pass (3,100m) for breathtaking Himalayan views. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most picturesque fortress. Overnight in Punakha.
- Day 4 : Excursion to Gangtey (2,890m) / Phobjikha Valley – Return to Wangdiphodrang (1,460m)
Journey to Gangtey Valley (Phobjikha), home to Black-necked Cranes and the Gangtey Monastery. Evening return to Wangdiphodrang. Overnight stay.
- Day 5 : Wangdiphodrang – Paro (2,260m) (3–4 hrs drive)
Return to Paro. Visit the National Museum, Drukgyel Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, and a traditional farmhouse. Enjoy views of Mount Jumolhari (7,314m). Overnight in Paro.
- Day 6 : Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
Hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliffside 900m above Paro Valley. Half-day hike followed by exploration of additional sites in Paro. Overnight in Paro.
- Day 7 : Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
Trip Cost Inclusion
- Arrival & Departure Transfers: All ground transport in a private vehicle, including airport and hotel transfers.
- Accommodation: Comfortable lodging throughout the tour.
- Sightseeing & Visa: All entrance fees to museums, monuments, and sites as per itinerary.
- Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the tour.
- Transportation: All ground transportation in a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary.
- Guide: Licensed, experienced, and friendly English-speaking Bhutanese professional guide.
- Staff Wages & Allowances: All Bhutanese staff salaries, allowances, food, equipment, and clothing.
- Water: One bottle mineral drinking water will provide during the tour.
- Government Taxes: All government taxes, permits, and official expenses.
Trip Cost Exclusion
- International Airfare: Flights to/from Paro (we can assist with flight bookings – please contact us at sales@adventurefriendship.com).
- Bhutanese Tourist Visa fee.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, evacuation, etc.).
- Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, internet, beverages (soft drinks, alcohol, beer), and other personal expenses.
- Filming & Special Permits: Fees for filming, drone use, or special camera permits.
- Tips: Gratuities for guide and driver (tipping is customary and appreciated).
- Optional & Extra Services: Any additional activities, services, or expenses not mentioned in the itinerary or under “What’s Included.”
- Private/Customized Trips: For tailor-made itineraries or private group tours, please contact us.
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