Classic Bhutan Tour
Overview:
Bhutan, an ancient kingdom nestled high in the Himalayas, is a land where centuries-old traditions thrive untouched by time. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan offers a spiritual sanctuary of monasteries, monks, majestic mountains, and a rich cultural heritage. Until recently, this mystical land was accessible only by foot or horseback, preserving its pristine landscapes and unique way of life. This journey takes you through Bhutan’s awe-inspiring valleys and historical Dzongs, guided by the principles of Gross National Happiness. From the vibrant capital of Thimphu to the serene beauty of Punakha and the cultural riches of Paro, each day unveils a new facet of Bhutanese life. With Karnali Excursions managing all logistics, you need only bring your camera and a sense of wonder.
Tour Highlights
- Spiritual exploration: Visit sacred monasteries including Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) and
- Punakha Dzong
- Cultural immersion: Experience Bhutan’s festivals, local markets, and traditional
- lifestyles
- Breathtaking landscapes: Cross high mountain passes and walk through pristine
- valleys
- Architectural marvels: Discover centuries-old Dzongs, temples, and cantilever bridges
- Authentic cuisine: Taste Bhutanese dishes featuring red rice, chili, and cheese
- Flora and fauna: Spot the rare Black-Necked Cranes at Gangtey Gompa
Tour Facts
- Total Trip Duration: 9 Nights / 10 Days
- Max Elevation: 3,120m (Taktsang Monastery)
- Grading: Easy to Moderate
- Tour Style: Lodge-to-Lodge
- Tour Starts/Ends: Paro
- Best Season: March-June, September-November
- Accommodations: 9 Nights in (BB) Hotels and Lodges
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 01 (03.10.2025): Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu (65 km / 1.5 hrs)
- Flight from Kathmandu to Paro, offering panoramic views of Everest and Kanchenjunga
- Meet your guide and drive to Thimphu, Check-in at Hotel Capital or similar hotel
- Visit Buddha Point (Dordenma Shakyamuni statue) and explore the vibrant Farmer’s Market
- Overnight stay in Capital Hotel, Thimphu
Day 02 (04.10.2025): Thimphu Tshechu Festival
- Attend the Thimphu Tshechu, a vibrant festival featuring ancient rituals, masked dances, and archery.
- Explore ancient Dzongs, temples, and interact with locals.
- Overnight stay in Capital Hotel, Thimphu.
Day 03 (05.10.2025): Drive from Thimphu to Gangtey (135 km / 6 hrs)
- Drive to Gangtey
- Overnight stay in Kichu Resort or similar
Day 04 (06.10.2025): Observe Gangtey Tshechu Festival
- Experience the 400-Year-Old Gangtey Tshechu festival with its unique rituals and local traditions
- Visit monasteries and explore pristine villages
- Overnight stay in Kichu Resort, Gangtey
Day 05 (07.10.2025): Gangtey to Punakha – Drive to Mendrelgeng Heritage Home
- Visit Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress at the confluence of Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers
- Stop at Chhimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility
- Drive to Mendrelgeng Heritage Home for an authentic cultural experience
- Overnight stay in Mendrelgeng Heritage Home
Day 06 (08.10.2025): Drive from Punakha to Haa Valley (6 hrs)
- Scenic drive to Haa valley, a secluded valley in western Bhutan
- Check-in at Lechuna Heritage Lodge, a traditional farmhouse
- Overnight stay in Lechuna Heritage Lodge, Haa
Day 07 (09.10.2025): Panorama Walk in Haa Valley (4-5 hrs)
- Leisurely walk through villages and terraced fields, exploring local culture and rural life
- Enjoy breathtaking views and serene surroundings
- Overnight stay in Lechuna Heritage Lodge, Haa
Day 08 (10.10.2025): Drive from Haa to Paro (65 km / 2 hrs)
- Drive to Paro and check-in at Nemjo Heritage Lodge
- Evening at leisure to explore Paro town
- Overnight stay in Nemjo Heritage Lodge, Paro
Day 09 (11.10.2025): Taktsang Monastery Hike (3120m) (4-5 hrs)
- Morning hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliff at 3,120m
- Explore Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan
- Overnight stay in Nemjo Heritage Lodge, Paro
Day 10 (12.10.2025): Departure from Paro & Tour Cost
- Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey
- Tour Cost (Per Person on Sharing Basis):
- Tour Cost: USD 930.00
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD 100 x 4 nights = USD 400.00
- Bhutan Visa Fee: USD 50.00
- Round-Trip Flight (Kathmandu – Paro – Kathmandu): USD 480.00
- Total Tour Cost: USD 1860.00 per person
Cost, Includes & Excludes
Cost Includes:
- Accommodation in listed hotels and lodges on a twin-sharing basis
- All meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Services of an English-speaking cultural guide
- Private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
- Entry fees to monasteries, Dzongs, and festivals as per the itinerary
- Bhutan Visa processing and fees
- Round-trip flight from Kathmandu to Paro and back
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- All logistical support during the tour
Cost Includes:
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, internet, etc.)
- Drinks and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Travel insurance and evacuation services
- Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances (natural calamities, flight delays, etc.)
Tour Extension
Do you wish to extend your trip to include more time, additional destinations, or both? Let us know and we’ll help you plan it out.
(These trips can also be extended or modified to fit your schedule.)
To view our Trip Extension options, please take a quick look at our Trip Extensions menu.
