Bhutan Travel Specialist, Druk Air Representative (Royal Bhutan Airlines)

7 Days Essential Bhutan Travel Plan

Embark on a captivating 7-day adventure through the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Bhutan. Our Essential Tour Package is the perfect choice for first-time visitors, offering an immersive experience that introduces you to the heart and soul of this mystical kingdom.

  • Guaranteed visa approval
  • 16,000+ satisfied travellers
  • Fast, easy and fuss free experience
  • Free consultation from our travel specialists

From

US$1,920.00*

*per adult
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What's Included

  • Guided tour
  • Visas for Bhutan
  • Airport transfers
  • Daily 3 meals (B/L/D) at designated restaurants or hotels
  • Accommodation at 3 star hotel
  • A qualified & licensed English-speaking guide
  • An experienced driver
  • A tour vehicle
  • Entry fees & road permits
  • Government fee, royalty, taxes & surcharges
  • Mineral bottled water
  • Set of traditional costume (to be return at the end of your stay)
  • Full service & assistance before, during and after your Bhutan trip

What's Excluded

  • Flight into Bhutan via Drukair (can be arranged with us)
  • Flight on other airline to catch Drukair Flight
  • Meals at 4-5 stars restaurants
  • Hotel stay outside of Bhutan
  • Expenditure of personal nature
  • Travel Insurance (can be arranged with us)
  • Tips for the guide and driver
  • Alcoholic drink

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Paro, head to Thimphu

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Touching down at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide upon exiting the arrival hall. Today, we will take it easy to acclimatise to the altitude. Drive to Thimphu, check in to the hotel and lets have your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

Activities

View of Tashichho Dzong at Night

As dusk falls, Tashichho Dzong transforms into a shimmering jewel in the heart of Thimphu. Floodlit in warm amber and red tones, its towering white walls and golden roofs glow against the deepening night sky, creating an almost magical silhouette. The courtyard falls silent after evening prayers, and you're left alone to appreciate the sheer scale and serenity of Bhutan's political and spiritual centre. Many visitors linger past the flag-lowering ceremony just to soak in the twilight atmosphere when the lights first bathe the dzong, making for a photographer’s dream and a heartfelt moment of calm.

Walk Around Thimphu Town

Strolling around Thimphu town offers a delightful blend of tradition and modern life in Bhutan’s capital. Start at Clock Tower Square, the lively heart of the city—adorned with carved wooden façades, prayer wheels, and water fountains—and a charming spot to linger while locals chat or browse the weekend market. From here, wander down Norzin Lam, Thimphu’s main street, where boutique shops, handicraft stores, and cafés invite you in. Along the way, admire traditional architecture—ornate wood carvings, colourful murals, and fluttering prayer flags—woven seamlessly into everyday life.

Hotel

Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa or similar

3 star

Day 2 Thimphu

Situated at an altitude of 2400m, Thimphu is the centre of government, religion and commerce. The capital has an interesting combination of tradition and modernity, and includes some of the most advanced and remotest parts of the kingdom. It is home to the Kings and the Royal family members, civil servants, expatriates, politicians, business persons and monks. Enjoy this cultural mix based on livelihood. Of culture we will take you through temples, dzongs, chortens, museums, handicraft stores, nunneries, parks and many more. Allow yourself to meet both traditional and contemporary artist.

Activities

Buddha Point

Towering above Thimphu Valley from the tranquil Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the majestic Buddha Dordenma is a sight to behold. Standing at a staggering 51.5 metres, this golden statue is one of the largest seated Buddhas in the world—and it’s not just its size that impresses. Nestled inside are over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, each crafted with the same devotion and detail. More than a monument, the Buddha Dordenma is a symbol of indestructibility and spiritual awakening, believed to bless the land with peace and harmony.

National Memorial Chorten

Immerse yourself in the spiritual rhythm of Thimphu with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, where locals—especially the elderly—gather daily to walk in prayerful circles, spinning prayer wheels and murmuring mantras in a peaceful flow of devotion. Built in 1974 to honour the beloved Third King, this white-washed stupa is a living sanctuary. Step inside and you’ll find vibrant murals, intricate mandalas, and detailed sculptures that beautifully illustrate Buddhist teachings. If you're seeking serenity or a glimpse into Bhutanese spiritual life, this is a place that quietly leaves a lasting impression.

Post Office

The General Post Office in Thimphu is more than just a postal hub—it’s a delightful cultural gem. Housed in a graceful Dzong-style building near Changlam Square, it’s home to the Bhutan Postal Museum set up in 2015, where five galleries chronicle the fascinating evolution of Bhutan’s postal system, from royal messengers to modern postage stamps. The real treat? You can create personalised, fully functional Bhutanese postage stamps—complete with your own photo—for a small fee of around 500 Nu (roughly USD7), and send postcards adorned with your face from this charming mountain kingdom.

Motithang Takin Preserve

Visiting the Motithang Takin Preserve in Thimphu is a delightful and serene experience—it’s the national animal’s very own sanctuary, nestled just 15–20 minutes from the city centre. What began as a humble mini-zoo became something far more fitting: a forested 3.4-hectare reserve where takin, Bhutan’s unique goat–cow creatures, have chosen to stay even when released into the wild. It’s a charming, low-key wildlife encounter that captures Bhutan’s gentle spirit—perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the country’s living symbols.

Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong)

Tashichho Dzong, often called the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” is one of Thimphu’s most iconic landmarks—and a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the soul of Bhutan. First built in 1641 and later restored by the visionary Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this grand fortress sits majestically along the banks of the Wang Chhu River. By day, it functions as the seat of Bhutan’s government and religious affairs, housing key ministries, His Majesty’s office, and the central monastic body. By evening, it transforms into a serene and majestic sight, its golden roofs glowing against the backdrop of the setting sun. You can stroll through its beautifully maintained courtyards, admire traditional Bhutanese architecture, and get a rare glimpse into the harmonious blend of spiritual and administrative life.

Hotel

Bhutan Peaceful Residency & Spa or similar

3 star

Day 3 Thimphu to Punakha

We will set off early from Thimphu after breakfast. Then proceed to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, about 2 1/2 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass. Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong, the second dzong to be built in Bhutan.

Activities

Dochula Pass

Perched at an altitude of 3,100 metres, Dochula Pass is one of Bhutan’s most serene and awe-inspiring mountain passes. Often cloaked in mist and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, it’s a place where time seems to slow down. The pass is adorned with 108 memorial chortens, built in honour of Bhutanese soldiers, and offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan range on clear days. Whether you're pausing for reflection or simply soaking in the stillness, Dochula invites you to breathe deeply, feel the peace, and reconnect with the beauty of the journey.

Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge

Stretching 160 metres across the Pho Chhu River, this is the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. From its swaying span, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Punakha Dzong and the lush Pho Chhu Valley—an unforgettable vantage point for photos and quiet reflection.

Punakha Dzong

Step into the heart of Bhutanese history and spirituality with a visit to Punakha Dzong, one of the most iconic and breathtaking fortresses in the country. Nestled at the sacred confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, this architectural masterpiece was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the great unifier of Bhutan. As you cross the traditional wooden cantilever bridge and approach the grand whitewashed walls, you’ll be walking the very grounds where Bhutan’s dual system of governance was first introduced—and where the first King, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned in 1907. Despite enduring fires and an earthquake, the dzong stands today fully restored—thanks to the vision of the 4th King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It now serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the spiritual head of Bhutan, and houses a monastic community of over 1,000 monks. Marvel at the intricate woodwork and artistry that adorn the halls and courtyards, and let the sacred energy of this historic site leave a lasting impression on your journey.

Rest in Punakha

Check in to hotel and rest for the night

Hotel

Zhingkham Resort or similar

3 star

Day 4 Punakha

Activities

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

[Duration: 2 hours – 1 hour ascent, 1 hour descent] Embark on a scenic hike through lush paddy fields and pine forests to reach the stunning Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, perched gracefully on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha Valley. Unlike any other temple in Bhutan, this intricately designed chorten was built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to promote peace, harmony, and universal well-being. Inside, the temple is adorned with some of Bhutan’s finest spiritual artwork. The walls are covered in detailed frescoes depicting Buddhist masters, protective deities, and profound symbolic imagery—offering a rich visual journey into Vajrayana Buddhist philosophy. This sacred site is not only a visual masterpiece but also a place of deep spiritual resonance, perfect for quiet reflection and cultural insight.

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang temple and nunnery, gracefully perched on a ridge, offers sweeping views of the Toebesa, Punakha, and Wangduephodrang valleys. Dedicated to the Bodhisattva of Compassion, it holds deep spiritual significance. The temple was consecrated by His Holiness in a sacred ceremony attended by His Majesty the King, the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, members of the royal family, and hundreds of devoted pilgrims from Punakha, marking it as a revered site of prayer and devotion.

Chorten Nyingpo

Your journey takes you through peaceful countryside to the sacred site of Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang, a temple steeped in legend and spiritual heritage. According to tradition, during the 15th century (8th Rabjung cycle), the revered yogi Lam Drukpa Kuenley—also known as the Divine Madman—passed through the village of Jiligang on his way from Tibet. As he travelled, he threw aside a partially burnt piece of wood, which landed at the spot where the temple now stands. Miraculously, the wood took root and grew into a lush, leafy tree. Taking this as an auspicious sign, the yogi blessed the site, which was later chosen for the temple. In the 18th century (13th Rabjung), the site was visited by Chogtrul Jigme Singye (1742–1789), the 4th reincarnation of Lama Thripa Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay. Recognising the sanctity of the location, he established the present-day Chorten Nyingpo temple, which continues to be a revered spiritual centre for the local community. Enjoy time to explore the temple grounds, soak in its peaceful atmosphere, and learn more about its rich legacy of sacred Bhutanese history.

Chimi Lhakhang

Nestled in the charming village of Sopsokha, Chimi Lhakhang—also known as the Fertility Temple—stands atop a gentle hill near Lobesa. Built in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpa Hierarch, the monastery is dedicated to the revered and unconventional saint, Lama Drukpa Kunley, famously known as the Divine Madman for his unorthodox teachings and eccentric behavior. To reach the temple, enjoy a scenic 30-minute walk through terraced paddy fields and a quaint village path. Pilgrims from all over the world visit Chimi Lhakhang to seek blessings for fertility, and many couples have returned to share stories of their answered prayers. A visit here offers not only cultural insight but also a peaceful connection with Bhutan’s spiritual traditions.

Hotel

Zhingkham Resort or similar

3 star

Day 5 Punakha to Paro

Activities

Paro Dzong (aka Rinpung Dzong)

Paro Dzong—also known as Rinpung Dzong, or the “Fortress of a Heap of Jewels”—is a spectacular hilltop monastery-fortress overlooking the Paro River and valley. Built in 1646 on an earlier temple site, it remains one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture, with soaring wooden beams, an iconic cantilever bridge and numerous shrines and chapels inside. It has served both as a defensive stronghold against Tibetan invasions and as the administrative and monastic centre for Paro district. Today it’s still home to around 200 monks, hosts the colourful Paro Tsechu festival, and offers visitors a serene yet awe-inspiring glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Paro Valley

Paro Valley is one of Bhutan’s most breathtaking regions, offering a stunning blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and spiritual heritage. The beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan's oldest monasteries and temples. At the northern end of the valley towers Mount Jomolhari, rising to 7,300 metres, whose glacier-fed waters form the Pachu River that flows serenely through the valley. Surrounded by pine forests, terraced fields, and traditional farmhouses, Paro Valley captures the timeless charm of Bhutan, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

Kyichu Lhakhang

At 1300 years old, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century by Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo as part of a spiritual mission to subdue a demoness and spread Buddhism. Located just north of Paro, it is often referred to as the “Sacred Jewel of Bhutan.” Over the centuries, the temple has been expanded and visited by many great masters, including Padmasambhava. It's a peaceful and deeply spiritual place, cherished by pilgrims and visitors alike.

Kaja Throm Paro

Immerse yourself in the local way of life with a visit to Kaja Throm, Paro's bustling open-air weekend market. Stroll past colorful stalls offering fresh organic produce, handmade textiles, Bhutanese snacks, and artisanal crafts. It’s the perfect spot to mingle with locals, sample seasonal delicacies, and support small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 6 Paro

Are you ready? We will be making the hike up to one of the key highlights in Bhutan today! Tiger's Nest aka Taktsang Monastery

Activities

Hot Stone Bath

Sink into the comforting warmth of a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath—an age-old ritual where nature, healing, and heritage come together in perfect harmony. As fire-roasted river stones are carefully dropped into a wooden tub filled with mineral-rich water, they crackle and hiss, releasing therapeutic heat and minerals believed to soothe tired muscles and boost circulation. Infused with fresh mountain herbs known for their calming aromas and medicinal properties, the bath envelops you in a cocoon of peace and restoration. In the quiet embrace of a rustic bathhouse, you’ll feel stress melt away, leaving only stillness and serenity behind. Additional charges apply.

Taktsang Monastery

They say, "a visit to Bhutan is not complete without climbing up to the Tiger's Nest". Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest, is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, dramatically perched on a cliffside 3,120 metres above sea level in Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to this site in the 8th century on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave that now lies at the heart of the monastery. Built in 1692, the complex includes temples, meditation caves, and stunning viewpoints that seem to defy gravity. Reaching the monastery involves a scenic 2–3 hour hike through pine forests and fluttering prayer flags—a spiritual and physical journey that rewards you with breathtaking views and deep serenity.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 7 Depart Paro

Today we will bid a fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take a flight back home. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek

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Why book with Druk Asia

We're Bhutan's largest tour operator & leading travel specialist with more than a decade of experience. We specialise in creating personalised, authentic and immersive travel experiences for travellers all around the world.

We're also the most-reviewed Bhutan tour agency with over 700 testimonials from satisfied clients in 50 countries. Our exceptional service and attention to detail have earned us a reputation as the go-to tour operator for Bhutan travel.

Our Guarantee

  • Guaranteed Visa approval. We have yet to disappoint a single of our travellers in term of Visa issuance.
  • Your choice of hotels will be confirmed for your inspection before your arrival.
  • We're here to help. Our world-class member services team is available by phone or email.

What customers are saying about this itinerary

4.87/5.00 (215 reviews)
ND

Nadya Dolf

from Switzerland, May 2025

Star 5 5.00

I had an unforgettable experience with Druk Asia. From the very beginning, their communication was excellent. I received quick, detailed, and extremely friendly responses. They truly listened to my wishes and tailored the trip accordingly. Everything was perfectly organized, from the booking process to airport pick-up, and all accommodations were wonderful and comfortable.

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NC

Neil Campbell

from Australia, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

We travel to learn and to experience different cultures Bhutan via Druk Asia/Soultrips met and passed our expectations Our guide Chenchou and Driver Tilly were great travelling companions as well as ensuring we explored all of what we wanted to see and do. They made a great team. Two local festivals were added to our itinerary and the day and stay in Gangtey were our highlights. We come away with admiration for the country and will come home and plant more trees

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SC

Serene Chen

from Singapore, Mar 2025

Star 5 5.00

Very personalised service, attentive, courteous, willingness to look out for moments of adventure, really tailored the experience to our pace and interests. Thank you for showing us your beautiful country.

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J

Jordan

from United States, Mar 2025

Star 5 5.00

-A Breathtaking Journey Through Bhutan with an Exceptional Team-

I recently traveled alone to Bhutan from 2 to 8 March 2025, visiting Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. The trip was organized by SoulTrips (company of DrukAsia), and I had the pleasure of being guided by Ms Chencho Lham and driven by Mr Thinley Dorji. From start to finish, the experience was seamless, enriching, and beyond my expectations.

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AT

Amy Toi

from Singapore, Feb 2025

Star 5 5.00

This trip to Bhutan with Soul Trips under Druk Asia was something I’ll never forget. From February 20-26, I got to experience the beauty of this incredible country, and having the right people guiding me made all the difference. My guide, Tepe, and driver, Chubby, were fantastic. Tepe was full of knowledge and always had the best answers to my endless questions. He also adjusted the itinerary so I could see and experience more than I expected in just a few days. Chubby, on the other hand, was a master behind the wheel. Driving through Bhutan’s winding mountain roads, some right by steep cliffs should have made me nervous, but I felt completely safe with him the entire time.

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P

Pam

from Singapore, Feb 2025

Star 5 5.00

Ms Ugyen Dema from Druk Asia organised our entire Bhutan Trip. I was picky with food and she also made sure I am well fed in Bhutan. Though it was a last minute decision to go to Bhutan, Dema made the plans perfectly organised even accommodating to our numerous hotel and flight requests. When we arrived in Bhutan… Our guide Kinley was knowledgeable about Bhutan’s rich culture, religion and history. Helping us to understand the site visits better. Our driver Tobgay was a superb driver navigating the tough terrains and keeping us safe and sound. Both of them were always on time ensuring we get to visit all the places and get sufficient rest. Bhutan is unique! My wife and I had an unforgettable time! Many thanks to Dema, Kinley and Tobgay for making Bhutan a truly wonderful experience for

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RB

Ricardo Beninatto

from Brazil, Jan 2025

Star 5 5.00

My wife and I spent an unforgettable week in Bhutan, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From start to finish, everything was perfectly organized. Our guide Kinley was incredibly knowledgeable about Bhutanese history, culture, and traditions, making every site visit even more meaningful. We had also a fantastic driver, safe and sound. Punctuality and reliability were top-notch—always on time, always professional, and always ensuring we had the best possible experience. We felt completely at ease, knowing we were in trustworthy hands.

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C

Cheryl

from Singapore, Dec 2024

Star 5 5.00

My family and I spent 10 days in Bhutan recently and it was an amazing experience thanks to our experienced guide Chencho and driver Lhendup! The sights in Bhutan were breathtaking and pictures simply cannot fully capture its beauty. The hospitality and warmth of the people was also really touching. Chencho, our guide was exceptional as her love and excitement for her culture was deeply evident. She also went above and beyond to make arrangements for us to attend a local festival at a temple at Ura valley which we were extremely honoured to attend! She contacted the local governor to kindly wait for us before concluding the festival as we were driving from a distance away — thanks to Chencho we managed to witness something very special and something we wouldn’t have otherwise experienc

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TG

Tim Groombridge

from United Kingdom, Dec 2023

Star 5 5.00

I travelled to Bhutan with my mum for 7 days. It really was an amazing trip, we had a wonderful time exploring Bhutan. The trip was very well planned and everything went smoothly, allowing us to pack lots into the relatively short amount of time.

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TC

Tay Chai Teng

from Singapore, Jun 2023

Star 5 5.00

We would like to thank our tour guide Sonam Lhendup and driver Pasang Tshering for making our trip so memorable. Pasang is a very careful and helpful driver. He never speeded, managed to drive very smoothly and safely. Sonam is very caring, responsible, knowledgeable and passionate. He explained the cultural and historical significance of every place we went, listening to him was highly entertaining. He always helped us took photos at every place we went.

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  • Guaranteed visa approval
  • 17,000+ satisfied travellers
  • Fast, easy and fuss free experience
  • Free consultation from our travel specialists

From

US$1,920.00*

*per adult
Check Availability Talk to us