6-Day Classic Bhutan Private Tour to Paro, Thimphu and Punakha
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About This Tour in Thimphu
Why Visit Thimphu?
Thimphu, Bhutan offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Thimphu provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Thimphu
You can reach Thimphu, Bhutan by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.
What's Included
- Entrance fees for all tourist sites
- Private English-speaking tour guide
- Bhutan visa fee for a single entry.
- Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotel.
- Service of private driver and air-conditioned vehicle.
- SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) and other taxes to the government.
What's Not Included
- Gratuities to guides and drivers (recommended)
- International flight into and out of Bhutan.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Not suitable for people over 80 years old.
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Meeting and Pickup
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available for all travelers
Custom pickup locations may be available. Please contact the supplier for details.
Itinerary
Arrival in Paro, Private transfer to Thimphu for city sightseeing
Paro airport is the only international airport in... 1 hour 30 minutes
Paro airport is the only international airport in Bhutan, which is around 65 kilometers (40 miles) away from the capital city - Thimphu. Once your flight arrives at the airport, your guide will greet you there and transfer you to the hotel in Thimphu.
On the way, you will see the Tachogang...
On the way, you will see the Tachogang Lhakhang Iron Bridge, which crosses the Paro Chhu River to a small Dzong (fortress). This is the first bridge to have ever been built in Bhutan.
After a short rest at the hotel, you... 30 minutes
After a short rest at the hotel, you will be escorted to visit the Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), built in memory of the third King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It is actually a stupa, housing many valuable religious paintings and Buddha statues. Over here you will see many local people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day.
Next visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue 30 minutes
Next visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue. It is 169 feet tall and located high atop a mountain, so it can be viewed from anywhere in the town.
After that you will see the national animal Takin at the Sanctuary 45 minutes
After that you will see the national animal Takin at the Sanctuary. Takin is a rare creature with the head of a goat and the body of a cow, which can only be seen in Bhutan.
Thimphu Valley
This morning, take in the charm of the... 2 hours
This morning, take in the charm of the Thimphu Valley with a 1-hour hiking through the dense primeval forest to Chagri Dorjeden Monastery. Built in 1620, it is now a major teaching and retreat center of the Southern Drukpa Kagyu sect. Walking to the monastery is not an easy task, as some roads are steep and require physical strength and stamina.
After lunch, visit the School of Traditional Arts and the Folk Heritage Museum 2 hours
After lunch, visit the School of Traditional Arts and the Folk Heritage Museum. These are the best places to experience the essence of Bhutan's traditional crafts and arts.
Then you will visit Thimphu Dzong (TashiChho Dzong),... 2 hours
Then you will visit Thimphu Dzong (TashiChho Dzong), which is a large fort originally built in the 13th century. Now it houses the government administration, King's office and a temple. Visits here are only possible after business hours on weekdays or at the weekend. At night, you can make your own way to Norzin Lam, Thimphu's only thoroughfare, lined with shops selling traditional ethnic crafts, including sculptures, weaving, silver, stone carvings and paintings.
Private transfer from Thimphu to Punakha with stopover at Dochula Pass
After breakfast, you will be taken to Punakha,... 3 hours
After breakfast, you will be taken to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha, with an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level. It takes around 3 hours driving.
On the way to Punakha, stopover at Dochula... 40 minutes
On the way to Punakha, stopover at Dochula Pass, where you can have a coffee break and see the 108 grand stupas. If it is a clear day, you will get great views of the Himalayas mountain ranges.
Then visit the Chimmi Lhakhang 40 minutes
Then visit the Chimmi Lhakhang. This small hilly temple is very popular as a lot of couples travel here to be blessed for a child.
Located at the confluence of Pho Chu and... 1 hour 30 minutes
Located at the confluence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, Punakha Dzong is the second largest Dzong in Bhutan and is also considered as the most beautiful Dzong in terms of history, location and architecture.
Very close to the dzong is the longest suspension bridge in the country 30 minutes
Very close to the dzong is the longest suspension bridge in the country. The views from this bridge are outstanding with the rivers flowing below. You will stay overnight in Punakha.
Drive back to Paro, Paro highlights with Kyichu Lhakhang
Today you will be taken back to Paro and visit the impressive Paro Dzong first 2 hours
Today you will be taken back to Paro and visit the impressive Paro Dzong first. It is an ancient fortress, also called Rinpung Dzong. You will see numerous beautiful paintings, murals, artifacts and statues of Buddha in this colorful traditional Bhutanese wooden architecture. Now it is the administration office, so dressing up adequately is well respected. On a cliff of the hill is the watch tower of Paro Dzong housing the National Museum. It is an overall showcase of Bhutanese life including art, relics, geology, etc.
The next stop is the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan 45 minutes
The next stop is the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century by Tibetan Emperor Songtsan Gampo.
Paro day sightseeing with hiking to Taktsang
Taktsang, Tiger's Nest in English, is the most... 5 hours
Taktsang, Tiger's Nest in English, is the most famous and sacred monastery in Bhutan. It is located in a cliff side over 900 meters above the Paro Valley. After breakfast, you will be escorted to the foot of mountain where you can start your trekking up to this holy place. It takes around two hours strenuous climbing. On the half way, you could rest at the cafeteria. Reaching the top could be extremely tiring, however once you get to the top, the views are amazing and deserving.
Then you will visit the Drukgyel Dzong 2 hours
Then you will visit the Drukgyel Dzong. The fort now in ruins was built to celebrate Bhutanese victory over the Tibetan Invasion. If you happen to visit here in a clear day, you will have a close view of the Mt. Chomolhari. Take your camera along for mind blowing captures. After that, you will visit a typical local farmhouse. Chatting with the family members is a good way to know how they live in the land of happiness.
Departure from Paro, Airport see-off
Your private 6 days trip to Bhutan will... 30 minutes
Your private 6 days trip to Bhutan will end after we transfer you to the airport and see you off there. We wish you have a nice trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.