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Best Bhutan Tour Packages
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Best Bhutan Tour Packages

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Duration

8 Days
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Trip Grade

Easy
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Group Size

1-16 People
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Max Altitude

4,000m. / 13,123ft.
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Best Season

Feb- May/ Sept- Nov
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Activity

Long Tour
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Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Accommodation

Hotels & Resort
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Transportation

Private Vehicle
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Trip Customization

On request (click here)
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8 Days
Price starts US$ 1800

We offer group price for private travelers

Live Chat 24/7

Highlights of Best Bhutan Tour Packages

  • Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro): Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most sacred site perched dramatically on a cliff, a must-see in any Paro tour package.

  • Punakha Dzong (Punakha): Explore the stunning Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” a major highlight of Bhutan cultural tours.

  • Haa Valley Exploration: Discover the untouched beauty of Haa Valley, a hidden gem perfect for offbeat Bhutan travel and rich in traditional Himalayan culture.

  • Buddha Dordenma & Memorial Chorten (Thimphu): Visit Thimphu’s towering Buddha Dordenma and spiritual Memorial Chorten, both key attractions in Thimphu sightseeing tours.

  • Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley: Witness endangered black-necked cranes in the serene Gangtey Valley, a top destination in Bhutan eco-tourism and nature tours.

  • Dochula Pass with 108 Chortens: Stop at Dochula Pass to see the 108 chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayas, a scenic highlight in most Bhutan road trips.

  • Cultural Experience with Festivals or Farmhouse Visit: Immerse in local life by attending a vibrant mask dance festival or enjoying a traditional farmhouse stay in Bhutan.

Trip Introduction

Best Bhutan Tour Packages – Discover the Thunder Dragon Kingdom, Bhutan, a small yet extraordinary Himalayan kingdom, is nestled deep within the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by India to the south and China (Tibet) to the north, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable Bhutan holiday package.

For centuries, Bhutan remained in self-imposed isolation, not just due to its rugged geography but as a deliberate decision by its kings to preserve its rich Mahayana Buddhist culture, setting the stage for one of the most authentic cultural tours in Bhutan.

Uniquely, Bhutan is one of the few nations in Asia that was never colonized, maintaining full sovereignty and independence, which is why travelers interested in untouched traditions and authentic Himalayan experiences often seek the best Bhutan package tour.

With a population of about 700,000, the Bhutanese people live in deep harmony with nature, guided by the principles of Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism, a branch of Tibetan Buddhism, forming the spiritual foundation of every Bhutan guided tour.

As the world’s only Mahayana Buddhist kingdom, Best Bhutan Tour Packages emphasizes compassion and the protection of all sentient beings, leading to progressive policies that make it the world’s only carbon-negative country, ideal for eco-friendly travel in Bhutan.

More than 70% of Bhutan’s land is covered by forests, and its commitment to environmental conservation has made it a role model in sustainable tourism, attracting nature lovers booking green Bhutan travel packages.

Popular destinations included in the best Bhutan Package tour packages itinerary—such as Paro (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Thimphu, Punakha, Haa Valley, and Gangtey Valley—offer travelers a chance to explore sacred monasteries, panoramic mountain passes, black-necked crane habitats, and vibrant Bhutanese festivals, making it a once-in-a-lifetime cultural and spiritual adventure.

Outline Itinerary of Best Bhutan Tour Packages

Day 01: Arrive Paro by flight.

Day 02: Thimpu Sightseeing.

Day 03: Drive from Thimpu to Gangtey.

Day 04: Drive from Gangtey to Punakha.

Day 05: Drive from Punakha to Haa Valley

Day 06: Drive from Haa Valley to Paro.

Day 07: Taktshang Monastery Hike.

Day 08: Departure to Airport.

Detail itinerary of Best Bhutan Tour Packages

01

Day 01: Arrive Paro by flight.

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu, the journey offers fascinating views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift, as you disembark from the aircraft will be cool, clean fresh mountain air. After immigration formalities and baggage collection, you will be met by our guide and afterwards drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan with enroute stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers. Three different style of stupas; Tibetan, Nepalese and Bhutanese adorn this confluence. Shortly before reaching Chuzom, you will see on your left TschogangLhakhang, “the temple of the excellent horse”. It is a private temple, built in 15th century, as the result of visitation from Balaha, the excellent horse, a manifestation of Chenrezig, the compassionate Buddha.

On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. With the population of about 90,000 it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light.

Evening an exploratory walk around Thimphu Main Street and market area. Also, visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan’s fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, interesting items made from local materials. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

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Activity: Airport Pickup & Sightseeing,4-5 hours

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Max. Altitude: 2,400m/7,874ft. Paro

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Meal: Lunch & Dinner

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Accommodation: Hotel

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Note:

If you have your own private group and want to make your trip private, we can run the custom trip all the day as per your requirements and group size.

Plan a Private Trip

Includes and Excludes

What are included with package?

  • Pickup and Drop: Transfers to and from the airport by private vehicle.
  • Accommodation: Seven nights in a 3-star hotel in Bhutan, with full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included.
  • Visa Fee for Bhutan: The visa fee for Bhutan is included in the package.
  • Permits and Entrance Airport Fees: All necessary permits and entrance fees required for sightseeing and tours in Bhutan are covered.
  • Private Vehicle Tours: All sightseeing and tours will be conducted by private vehicle.
  • Paperwork: All necessary travel documents and paperwork required for the tour are provided
  • Experienced Bhutanese Guide: An experienced, helpful, and friendly Bhutanese guide will accompany you throughout the tour.
  • Medical Supplies: A first aid kit will be available for any medical needs during the tour.
  • Government Taxes: All applicable government taxes and service charges are included in the package.

What are not included with package?

  • Nepal Visa Fee: You can obtain the visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
  • International Airfare: International flights to and from Kathmandu are not included; you’ll need to arrange and cover this expense separately.
  • Flight to Bhutan: Flight to Paro and from Paro to onwards destination.
  • Beverage Drinks: Any soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or beverages other than the ones included in your meals will be at your own expense.
  • Extra Night Accommodation: If you arrive early, leave late, or return early from your trip due to weather or other reasons, extra accommodation in Kathmandu and Bhutan will not be included.
  • Travel and Rescue Insurance: You are responsible for your own travel and rescue insurance. Make sure your insurance covers the activities in Bhutan.

Pick Your Suitable Date

US$ 1800

Book a Private Trip

Private & Group Discount Price

  • 1 - 1 person
    US$ 2600
  • 2 - 2 people
    US$ 1800
  • 3 - 5 people
    US$ 1780
  • 6 - 10 people
    US$ 1750
  • 11 + people 9999
    US$ 1700
1 Travelers x US $ 2000

Total Cost:

US$ 2600

(No additional taxes or booking fees)

Trip Information

Best Bhutan Tour packages: The Thunder Dragon Kingdom

Bhutan is often referred to as “Druk Yul”, which means “Land of the Thunder Dragon” in Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan. This name is deeply symbolic and rooted in the country’s mythology, religious traditions, and natural phenomena. Correspondingly, Bhutan is also known globally as the “Thunder Dragon Kingdom.”

Origin of the Thunder Dragon Name

The name Druk Yul comes from the word “Druk” (Thunder Dragon), which is the national symbol of Bhutan. It is associated with the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, the dominant religious lineage in Bhutan. The legend says that when Tsangpa Gyare, the founder of the Drukpa lineage, established a monastery in Tibet in the 12th century, there was a violent thunderstorm. The thunder was seen as a manifestation of the dragon’s roar, and thus his sect was named Drukpa, meaning “those of the Thunder Dragon.”

When Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a great master of the Drukpa lineage, came to Bhutan in the early 17th century to escape religious conflict in Tibet, he brought the Drukpa tradition with him and unified the country under this Buddhist school. Since then, Bhutan has been known as “Druk Yul,” and its rulers as “Druk Gyalpo” or Dragon Kings.

Symbolism of the Thunder Dragon (Druk)

The Thunder Dragon symbolizes power, strength, and protection, as well as the dynamic energy of Bhutan’s natural forces—especially its frequent thunderstorms and high mountain winds. The dragon is prominently featured on the national flag of Bhutan:

  • The dragon (Druk) is shown in white, symbolizing purity and the loyalty of the people.

  • The dragon clutches jewels, representing the wealth and prosperity of the country.

  • The yellow half of the flag represents the secular power of the monarchy.

  • The orange half represents the spiritual tradition of Buddhism.

This powerful image reflects the deep intertwining of spiritual and secular life in Bhutanese culture.

The Role of the Dragon King (Druk Gyalpo)

The monarch of Bhutan is officially known as the Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King. This title emphasizes the king’s role as both a spiritual and temporal leader, guided by Buddhist principles. The Dragon Kings of the Wangchuck dynasty, which began in 1907, have played a vital role in preserving Bhutan’s independence, culture, and environment, while also carefully guiding it into the modern era.

Druk in Daily Life and Identity

The concept of the Thunder Dragon is deeply embedded in Bhutanese national identity:

  • Bhutanese people are sometimes called “Drukpas” (people of the Thunder Dragon).

  • The national airline is named Druk Air.

  • The parliament is known as the Druk Tshogdu.

  • Government offices and even the army are often referred to using “Druk” as a prefix.

It’s not just a symbol—it is a living expression of Bhutanese heritage and pride.

Mythical and Natural Connection

Bhutan’s geography, with its high mountains, dramatic monsoon storms, and thunder that echoes through deep valleys, gives a natural feel to the legend of the Thunder Dragon. In local belief, the sound of thunder is considered the voice of the dragon, watching over the land. This connection to the elements reinforces the country’s close bond with nature and its spiritual worldview.

Religious Foundations and the Role of Padmasambhava

Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan in the 8th century by the Indian tantric master Padmasambhava, who is also known as Guru Rinpoche. He is credited with bringing the Vajrayana form of Buddhism to the Himalayan regions and is deeply revered in Bhutanese culture. Guru Rinpoche is believed to have subdued the negative forces in Bhutan and consecrated the land as a sacred space suitable for Buddhist practice. Many of the sacred sites across Bhutan today—such as the iconic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)—are associated with his presence.

Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and National Unity

One of the most transformative figures in Bhutanese history is Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a Tibetan lama of the Drukpa lineage, who arrived in Bhutan in 1616. He played a pivotal role in unifying the fragmented valleys and principalities of Bhutan under a single rule. Zhabdrung established a dual system of governance, wherein religious and civil authorities operated in parallel—a system that shaped the national identity and structure of governance for centuries. He built many dzongs (fortresses), which served both as religious centers and administrative hubs, many of which still stand today and are vital to Bhutanese governance and rituals.

The Wangchuck Monarchy: A New Era

In 1907, Bhutan underwent another significant turning point. In a rare instance of unity and consensus, representatives from the clergy, civil administration, and the people came together in a historic assembly to elect Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. This event marked the beginning of the Wangchuck dynasty, which continues to rule the country today. The monarchy was established not through conquest or external pressure but through internal consensus, showing the deep trust the Bhutanese people placed in their chosen leader.

Modernization and Democratic Transition

Over the next century, Bhutan slowly opened up to the world—but always cautiously and on its own terms. In 2006, the fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who is widely revered for his visionary leadership and emphasis on Gross National Happiness (GNH), took a bold and unprecedented step. He voluntarily abdicated the throne in favor of his son and initiated the transition from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. This peaceful and planned political reform was highly unusual in world history, where power is rarely surrendered voluntarily by monarchs.

In 2008, Bhutan marked 100 years of monarchy with two landmark events:

  1. The successful conduct of the first democratic elections, signaling a new chapter in governance.

  2. The coronation of the fifth King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who continues to lead the country with grace, modern insight, and a commitment to Bhutan’s core values of spirituality, sovereignty, and sustainability.

Essential Packing List for Best Bhutan Tour Packages

Traveling is mostly about enjoying and experiencing the destination, however, if you want to get the most from your little holiday, then appropriate travel gear is also a must.

It may seem a chore to you, but some of the items and equipment are such that you would hate to be without them. Here, we have listed some must-have gear that will take up very small space in your backpack and is also legal to travel with.

  • Your Passport
  • Visa
  • Passport Photos
  • Local Currency
  • Credit or Debit Cards
  • Emergency Contact Info
  • Booking Information
  • Health Insurance
  • First Aid Kit

The backpack is a more comfortable, easy-to-carry, manageable, and convenient option than carrying a heavy suitcase when traveling abroad. You can carry almost all your gear in it without much load. We suggest you have one main and another secondary backpack: the main backpack will have large storage for all your equipment and belongings, and the secondary backpack will be used to travel light during the day.

  • Main Backpack: Good quality waterproof lightweight with volume up to 45 to 60 L with a good hip-belt
  • Secondary Backpack: Foldable, durable, lightest, and smallest

  • Foldable Travel Toiletry Bag
  • Carrying case or waterproof cover for your main and secondary backpack to protect from dust, water, and dirt
  • Camera Backpack
  • Document bag

  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Light Down Jacket
  • Rain Coat
  • T-shirts (long and half-sleeved) and Tank Tops for the hot days
  • Fleece Jackets
  • Hoodie
  • Sweatshirts
  • Wool sweater
  • Durable, lightweight, quick drying Hiking Pants
  • Some Jeans for a casual look
  • Canvas or cargo pants with numerous pockets
  • Shorts
  • Leggings for women
  • Skirt (long for visiting temples and monasteries for women)
  • Long Dress for some formal occasions
  • Bras (Sports bras would be preferable for comfortable traveling)
  • Panties
  • Briefs
  • Boxers
  • Socks (Cotton and woolen, quick drying)

  • Flip-flops or sandals
  • Canvas sneakers
  • Trail shoes for light walking and touring

  • Swimsuit
  • Hat, cap
  • Bandana and masks
  • Scarf, shawl, or foulard
  • Handkerchief
  • Gloves
  • Sleeping Bag, Hammock, Tent for nature trips ( Optional)
  • Earplugs
  • Inflatable pillow or cushion
  • Sleeping or an eye mask
  • Sunscreen or sunblock
  • Sunglasses
  • Chapsticks or Lip Balms
  • Moisturizer
  • Deodorant
  • Light, quick-drying towel

  • Phone with charger, headphones, memory cards
  • Camera with replacement battery, memory cards, and charger
  • Notebook computer, tablet
  • GPS or GPS Watch
  • Universal Adapter
  • Power Bank
  • Solar Charger

  • Toothpaste
  • Shampoo
  • Toothbrush
  • Comb
  • Soap
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sanitary Pads

  • Padlocks
  • Head torch
  • Multipurpose knife
  • Lighter or matches
  • Whistle
  • Thermal Blanket
  • Flashlight
  • Compass
  • Mosquito spray or repellent
  • Water Filter

  • Antiseptics
  • Painkillers such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen
  • Bandages
  • Tweezers
  • Thermometer
  • Disposable gloves
  • Your prescribed medications
  • Common medicines for diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
  • Anti-allergic medications
  • Moleskin or blister pads
  • Altitude sickness medication (Diamox)
  • Eye and ear drops
  • Safety Pins
  • Gause Pads
  • Scissors

Destinations in Bhutan are also very child-friendly, so you may decide to join in with your kids as well. Traveling internationally with children, however, means an extra suitcase, extra space, and items. For your stress-free travel, we have listed some essential equipment when touring with children, whether they are older or newborn.

  • Enough diapers and wipes
  • Baby bottles and infant milk, if necessary
  • Easy to put on and take off baby clothes
  • Portable changing mat
  • Lightweight folding stroller
  • Insulated bag for storing meals
  • Reading or coloring books, card games, board games, or cartoon games on an iPad
  • Travel Potty
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Equipment Note:

  • We understand that not every item that we have listed here is essential. The traveling items depend on what you need, your destination, the type of tour, and a number of days you have allocated for your tour.
  • So, review our list and pack only what is necessary for you. The main aim is to travel as light as you can and comfortably without the burden of extra luggage. Most of the items here can even be purchased in the major cities in Bhutan, such as Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu, so there is no need to worry if you forget to pack something.

Frequently Asked Questions

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8 Days
Price starts US$ 1800

We offer group price for private travelers

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  • Price starts

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