Duration
4 Days
Bhutan Magical Tour
Trip Grade
Easy
Group Size
2-20 People
Max Altitude
3,120m. / 10,236ft.
Best Season
Feb- May/ Sept- Nov
Activity
Trekking, Sightseeing
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Trip Customization
On request (click here)
Highlights of Bhutan Magical Tour
- Enjoy a scenic drive between Paro and Thimphu through beautiful valleys and villages
- Explore the famous monasteries, museums and cultural sites of Thimphu
- View the giant Buddha Dordenma with panoramic views over Thimphu Valley
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery at 3,120 m (10,236 ft)
- Take in beautiful mountain and valley views along the Tiger’s Nest trail
- Visit historic Rinpung Dzong and explore the traditional Bhutanese architecture
- Explore one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, Kyichu Lhakhang
- Try traditional foods and local flavors from Bhutan
- Experience Bhutan’s peaceful culture and warm hospitality
- Sightseeing, culture and light hiking all in a perfect blend
Trip Introduction
The Bhutan Magical Tour is a short journey that introduces you to the culture, history and peaceful landscapes of Bhutan. You’ll fill your itinerary with two of the nation’s most significant destinations, Paro and Thimphu, for four days. This tour is perfect for those who wish to experience the attractions of Bhutan, including the famous monasteries, traditional architecture, scenic valleys and the Bhutanese hospitality, in a manageable amount of time.
The Bhutan Magical Tour starts in Paro at 2,280 m (7,480 ft), then heads to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu, at 2,334 m (7,657 ft). You will get a great impression of the country from the drive that goes through quiet villages, rivers, forests and green hills. In Thimphu, you will visit important cultural landmarks such as the National Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, Folk Heritage Museum and the impressive Buddha Dordenma statue.
This Bhutan Magical Tour package also allows you to learn more about Bhutanese culture as you enjoy local food, visit local museums and handicraft markets and interact with the friendly locals. With every visit, you will learn about the special way of living in the country, where tradition and development of modern times live in harmony and you will have the chance to see the environment and the cultural heritage being preserved.
The visit to the renowned Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Paro) is a highlight of the Bhutan Magical Tour. The monastery is located on a cliff at 3,120 m (10,236 ft), which is a spectacular place. The path is well maintained and has stunning views of the surrounding valley. The route allows you to pause at a viewpoint café on your way to visit other parts of the monastery, where you can experience meditation caves, temples and other important religious sites in Bhutan.
The 4 Days Bhutan Magical Tour also features a tour to the National Museum of Bhutan, the historic Rinpung Dzong and the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest temples in the country. These are places where one can gain a better understanding of Bhutan’s long history, spiritual traditions and architectural beauty and have ample time to enjoy the peaceful mood.
This well-planned trip is a perfect mix of sightseeing, light hiking and relaxation, whether you are a first-time visitor to Bhutan or just on a short cultural holiday. In every aspect of the journey, Himalayan Adventure Treks has the expertise, safety and comfort of the local guides, transportation and services.
Outline Itinerary of Bhutan Magical Tour
Day 01: Arrival in Paro and Drive to Thimphu
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing and Drive to Paro
Day 03: Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery and Paro Sightseeing
Day 04: Departure from Bhutan
Our guests sharing their experiences (Photo/Video Gallery)
Detail itinerary of Bhutan Magical Tour
01
Day 01: Arrival in Paro and Drive to Thimphu
Welcome to Bhutan. From Paro International Airport, we will meet you with our local guide and driver to help you with your bags and take you on your journey. Paro is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by green hills and traditional Bhutanese villages. The airport’s architecture and the mountain backdrop make it one of the world’s most picturesque airports.
Upon hopping on in the vehicle, you will start a nice drive to the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. The trip lasts for approximately 65 km and takes approximately 1 hour. The road runs along the Paro Chhu and Wang Chhu rivers and goes through tranquil rural areas, small villages, forests and fields. It is a soothing way to introduce yourself to the natural beauty and the life of Bhutan.
Thimphu sits at an elevation of 2,334 m (7,657 ft), slightly higher than Paro (2,280 m / 7,480 ft). The slow drive acclimates your body to the increased altitude before you reach sightseeing.
Once you reach Thimphu, you will be given the time to relax after your flight and settle in to your hotel while you explore the city. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may have the opportunity to walk around the city for a short bit. Thimphu is a blend of modernity and traditional Bhutanese culture. Explore the local cafes and have a cup of butter tea or just wander around the surrounding streets and shops.
Have your first Bhutanese dinner in the evening. Local dishes are popular, such as Ema Datshi, red rice and vegetables of the season. Return to your hotel after dinner for the sleep and be ready for sightseeing tomorrow.
Activity: Arrival and scenic drive to Thimphu,
Max. Altitude: 2,334m/7,657ft. Thimphu
Meal: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
02
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing and Drive to Paro
Start your day with breakfast in your hotel and then start a tour of Bhutan’s capital city. Thimphu is the country’s capital, the cultural and religious hub and the political centre. It is the biggest city in Bhutan, but retains a peaceful atmosphere and many traditional customs.
Your first sightseeing spot is the National Memorial Chorten, a significant religious monument where people pray and meditate on a daily basis. We then head for the impressive fortress Tashichho Dzong, where the government of Bhutan and the central monastic body reside. It is one of the most significant sights of the country due to its gorgeous courtyards and traditional architecture.
Then visit the Folk Heritage Museum to get an insight into the traditional life of the Bhutanese villagers.Head on to the Textile Museum, where you’ll find some colorful handwoven textiles and the significance of weaving in Bhutanese culture.
Then we go to the giant Buddha Dorenma Statue on a hill above the city (2,600 m / 8,530 ft) after lunch at a local restaurant. The viewpoint provides a beautiful panoramic view of a valley which is known as Thimphu. Visit the Craft Bazaar to buy handmade textiles, wooden crafts, paintings and souvenirs from local artisans if time permits.
In the afternoon, head back to Paro via the same route. Once you have checked in at your hotel, go out and eat dinner and then unwind at the end of your day of sightseeing.
Activity: Sightseeing and scenic drive,
Max. Altitude: 2,600m/8,530ft. Paro
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
03
Day 03: Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery and Paro Sightseeing
Following breakfast, set off for the beginning of the popular walk to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The sacred monastery is also called Paro Taktsang, as it is located on a dramatic cliff and is the most famous religious site in Bhutan.
A trail winds through pine forests fringed with colorful prayer flags. The walk involves a steep climb of approximately 4km one way and typically takes around 2 hours to get to the monastery. The path is fairly steep, but quite well marked and the guide will make time available for rest breaks. After passing through a halfway house, there is a café offering tea or coffee with stunning views of the monastery.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery is located at 3,120 m (10,236 ft) with fantastic views of the valley below. Take time to visit its temples, shrines and meditation caves and to learn about Guru Rinpoche, who is said to have meditated in this place in the 8th Century.
Once visited, proceed down to the trailhead and enjoy lunch. Head to the National Museum of Bhutan, the historic Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the seventh century, in the afternoon and explore Paro.
In the evening, you will go back to your hotel for dinner and have your last night in Bhutan.
Activity: Hiking and sightseeing, 4 to 5 hours hiking, plus sightseeing
Max. Altitude: 3,120m/10,236ft. Tiger's Nest Monastery
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
04
Day 04: Departure from Bhutan
Your last day in Bhutan will be spent at the hotel, enjoying a leisurely breakfast. Reflect for a moment on the remarkable journey you’ve just made through the tranquil valleys of the country, ancient monasteries and the gorgeous mountain vistas. Before leaving, make sure all your belongings are packed and your travel documents are ready.
On leaving the hotel, your guide and driver will take you to your destination, which is Paro International Airport. This drive will take around 20 minutes and you will get to see the quiet streets of Paro, your last chance to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You will encounter traditional Bhutanese houses, prayer flags, rivers and green fields that are so special to this valley along the way.
Your guide will explain you through the check-in procedure. Say goodbye, then go through immigration and security and then towards your departure gate.
If the weather cooperates, take one last look at the Himalayan mountains as you make your way out of Bhutan. It’s a brief trip but the memories of Bhutan’s peaceful culture, friendly people, colourful monasteries and beautiful landscapes will remain with you for years to come. Looking forward to seeing you again on another adventure in the Himalayas soon.
Activity: Airport transfer and departure, 20 minutes drive
Max. Altitude: 2,280m/7,480ft. Paro
Meal: Breakfast
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.
Includes and Excludes
What are included with package?
- Transfers to and from the airport in a private vehicle
- Private vehicle for transportation during the tour as per the tour itinerary
- Three nights’ accommodation in comfortable hotels
- All three meals on tour
- Proficient English-speaking Bhutanese guide
- Local driver (professional) and all transportation costs
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Tourist visa and all necessary travel permits for Bhutan
- Entrance fee for all monuments, museums, monasteries and sightseeing places indicated in the itinerary
- Tigers Nest Monastery as a guided hike
- Drinking bottled water for sightseeing and during trips
- Taxes and official service charges levied by the government
What are not included with package?
- Airfare from abroad to Bhutan and vice versa
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic beverages (excluding those served with meals) and soft drinks
- Personal expenses like laundry, phone calls, internet, shopping, etc
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Costs resulting from a flight delay, cancellation, natural disaster, road closures, political event or other unforeseen circumstances
- additional accommodation and meals during unforeseen circumstances
- Personal trekking/hiking gear if necessary
- Any services that are not listed in the Cost Includes section
Pick Your Suitable Date
US$
Book a Private Trip
Private & Group Discount Price
Travelers x US $ 2000
Total Cost:
US$
Trip Information
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
The Bhutan Magical Tour is available year-round, but the spring months (March – May) and autumn months (September – November) are ideal. These months have clear skies, good weather and good mountain views.
Spring brings fresh flowers and green valleys and autumn brings fresh air and splendid colors. The seasons are also ideal for local festivals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Bhutanese culture.
The weather is cool and dry in the winter, particularly at night and in the early morning. It rains for the season during summer and one can travel and the countryside is lush and green. No matter when you visit, each season offers a different view of Bhutan’s natural beauty.
Bhutan Magical Tour Difficulty
The Bhutan Magical Tour Package is suitable for most of the travelers with a normal level of fitness. The majority of activities involve simple sightseeing, strolling around city attractions and visiting monasteries.
The most active is the trek to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It will take approximately 2 hours to climb to the summit (3120 m / 10236 ft) and 1 to 2 hours to descend. The path is well maintained but has a few inclines.
The walk is much easier if you are able to stroll at a comfortable speed and stop often. It can be done by a first-time visitor if properly prepared and guided.
Accommodation on the Bhutan Magical Tour
The Bhutan Magical Tour will be spent in comfortable hotels in Thimphu and Paro. Most places provide clean rooms, private baths, hot showers, heating during the winter and welcoming services.
Many of the hotels have been constructed in the traditional Bhutanese style with contemporary amenities for a comfortable stay. Beautiful views of nearby mountains or valleys are also possible in some rooms.
The hotel serves breakfast and some may serve lunch and dinner. Himalaya Adventure Treks chooses your accommodation carefully to ensure comfort, good service and convenient locations during the tour.
Food and Drink during the Bhutan Magical Tour
On the 4 Days Bhutan Magical Tour, you can experience local and international cuisine. Freshly prepared meals are offered in most hotels and restaurants and made with seasonal foods.
Ema Dtshi, red rice, momo, noodle soup, vegetables, chicken, pork and beef are all popular dishes in Bhutan. Vegetarian dishes are also plentiful if requested.
Tea and coffee are frequently offered at meal times and bottled drinking water is readily available all along. Eating local foods is a great way to meet local people, while tasting some simple and delicious meals made from local ingredients.
Altitude and Acclimatization for the Bhutan Magical Tour
The Bhutan Magical Tour visits places at moderate elevations. Paro sits at 2,280 m (7,480 ft), while Thimphu is located at 2,334 m (7,657 ft). Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120 m / 10,236 ft) is the highest point on the tour.
This route is not particularly difficult on the altitude front as it sees a gradual ascent. By the first day, the body may adapt to the condition if sufficient water intake and avoiding over-exertion are maintained on that day.
If you become tired on the trail, just take it slower and rest as necessary. Your guide will make sure that the walk is comfortable and enjoyable for all participants.
Visa and Bhutan Travel Permit
For those who are joining this Bhutan Magical Tour Package, you will require a valid passport with at least six months of validity. The Bhutan visa is a necessity for most foreign tourists.
The visa application is made via a registered Bhutan Magical Tour operator. In addition, travelers must also pay the Sustainable Development Fee as per the current government’s directive.
Himalayan Adventure Treks will take care of the necessary travelling arrangements and will make the necessary arrangements with the local partner for getting your visa and travel permit completed before you arrive in Bhutan.
Health and Safety
The Bhutan Magical Tour is a safe tour which is for all family members, couples and individual travelers. Bhutan has a peaceful ambience and friendly people.
Bring your personal medications and let the guide know of any medical conditions before the trip. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather so you can enjoy the tour.
Your guide will be with you throughout the journey and particularly on the walk to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. By following your guide’s directions and maintaining proper hydration, you can ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable.
Transportation during the Bhutan Magical Tour
The 4 Days Bhutan Magical Tour comprises ground transportation by comfortable private vehicle throughout the tour. The road from Paro to Thimphu is in good condition and provides stunning scenery of river valleys, forests and villages.
An airport transfer and sightseeing is provided on the basis of your itinerary. If you travel by private vehicle, you will have the flexibility and enjoy the travel at your own pace.
For your tour, Himalayan Adventure Treks deals with experienced Bhutanese drivers who know the driving conditions and are accustomed to the mountainous roads to provide you with comfortable travel in Bhutan.
Travel Insurance for the Bhutan Magical Tour
It is recommended that everyone who is coming to Bhutan Magical Tour take travel insurance. Having a great insurance plan gives you additional comfort en route.
Select a policy that will include medical treatment, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, delayed flights and lost luggage. This is a non-strenuous tour, but unexpected events may happen en route.
When departing from home, thoroughly check your insurance policies to see what’s included. Bring both electronic and paper copies of insurance information on your travels.
Currency and Personal Expenses
The Bhutan Magical Tour packages include the services outlined in your tour, but it is advisable to have a bit of extra cash for personal expenses.
The official currency of Bhutan is Ngultrum (BTN), which is equal to Indian Rupee. Cash is still useful in many places, but some hotels and shops will take credit cards.
These costs are for personal use and could be for drinks, snacks, souvenirs, laundry, optional activities and tips for guides and drivers. Changing some money before your tour is a good idea.
Language and Communication
On the Bhutan Magical Tour, you will hear a few local languages. The national language is Dzongkha and English is widely used in hotels, tourist attractions, restaurants and by professional guides.
It’s always nice to learn a couple of basic phrases in the language and it can make things more fun. The Bhutan people are typically friendly, hospitable and courteous.
Communication will be assisted by your guide as necessary and customs, tradition and historical sites will be explained throughout the journey.
Internet, Charging Facilities and Mobile Network
Communication services are relatively good in the main towns for the 4 Days Bhutan Magical Tour. Hotels in Paro and Thimphu usually provide Wi-Fi, although the speed may vary.
Mobile phone reception is excellent in most towns and on major roads. You can get a local SIM card when you arrive and keep communicating during their trip.
Hotels have electricity available to charge phones, cameras and more. It’s handy to have a universal travel adapter and a power bank as well, particularly on sightseeing days.
Bhutan Magical Tour Photography and Drone Rules
The Bhutan Magical Tour has a lot of great photography opportunities to offer, including the quiet valleys, stunning monasteries and traditional architecture.
Usually, it is permitted to photograph in the outdoors, but sometimes not permitted inside the temples, monasteries and sacred rooms. Obey the directions of the guide and local authorities.
The use of drones is highly controlled in Bhutan and their flight is generally governmentally approved. By observing these rules, you will help to safeguard religious sites, wildlife and local communities.
Cultural Etiquette and Dress Code
The Bhutan Magical Tour Package is an opportunity to see Bhutan’s unique traditions and religious culture. You must pay respect to local customs, as this is part of your visit.
Modest dress with a covering of shoulders and knees should be worn when entering monasteries, temples and dzongs. Take off your hat when you enter religious buildings and talk quietly when you visit religious buildings.
Obtain permission before taking photographs of local people. By following these simple traditions, you will show respect for Bhutanese culture and help to create positive experiences on your journey.
Tips for First Time Visitors
This Bhutan Magical Tour is a great introduction to Bhutan’s culture, history and natural beauty. Wearing shoes that are easy to walk in, multiple layers of clothing, sunblock, sunscreen and a water bottle will make the walk more comfortable.
Take a leisurely pace on the Tiger’s Nest hike and drink lots of water all day long. Have some cash with you; not all shops take card payments.
Follow your guide, observe local customs and carry personal documents safely. Your first visit to Bhutan will be enjoyable and memorable with proper preparation and as long as you are open-minded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reasonable time needed for a hike at the Tiger's Nest Monastery?
The total hike should take about 4-5 hours, which is ample time for most visitors to make the journey, including the time spent at rest stops and exploring the monastery.
Are children able to participate in this tour?
Yes. Good health and basic walking skills are required and children are welcome to join, though there is a recommendation for parents to supervise them when walking to the Tiger’s Nest.
Are vegetarian and special dietary meals served?
Yes. Most dietary needs can be catered for and vegetarian options are plentiful, made possible by advance enquiries before the tour.
Which type of clothes should be worn on this tour?
Clothing should be comfortable, light, with some layers and have sturdy shoes as temperatures can vary during the day.
Will there be any shopping opportunities for local handicrafts while visiting the area?
Yes. Thimphu and Paro are both home to local markets offering handmade fabrics, wooden carvings, paintings and traditional Bhutanese mementos.
Is bottled drinking water readily available?
Yes. There is bottled drinking water available throughout the tour and also provided during sightseeing and road transfers.
Will I get any leisure time on the tour?
Yes. If you arrive early and have time to explore the local markets or enjoy a local café, you will have opportunities to relax, explore and do both.
What animals can be viewed on the trip?
Colorful birds, Himalayan pine forests and sometimes monkeys or other small animals can be spotted along the Tiger’s Nest trail.
Would you be able to add on extra nights?
Yes. Some nights in Paro, Thimphu or other parts of Bhutan can be arranged before departure.
How many people are typically in this tour?
The tour can be conducted privately for groups, families or small groups, with a comfortable and personalized travel experience.
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