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

10 Days 9 Nights with Jakar Tshechu

Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, Gangtey and Paro

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

From

US$2,880.00*

*per adult
Check Availability Talk to us

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

Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong, meaning “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. Located along the banks of the Wang Chhu River in Thimphu, it serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government and houses the Throne Room, the offices of His Majesty the King, and several key ministries. It’s also the summer residence of the central monastic body, led by the Je Khenpo. With its imposing whitewashed walls, golden spires, and ornately painted woodwork, Tashichho Dzong is a striking example of Bhutanese architecture. The surrounding gardens and courtyards offer a serene setting, especially when lit up in the evening. Visitors are welcome to explore certain areas of the dzong after office hours, making it not just a centre of political and religious life, but also a window into the living heritage of Bhutan.

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

Thimphu Day 2.

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.

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. 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

Chimi Lhakhang

Also known as the Fertility Temple, this monastery is located in the beautiful village of Sopsokha. It stands on a small hill close to the village of Lobesa and was constructed in 1499 by Ngawang Choegyel, the 14th Drukpaheirarch. This monastery is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the 'Divine Madman', known for his risqué behavior. The footpath to Chimi Lhakhang meanders through beautiful terraces of paddy fields. The walk across the fields takes about 30 minutes. Many have been blessed with children after praying at the temple. Visiting Window 9:00 A.M to 12:00 NOON 2:00 P.M to 4:00 P.M

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

At 160 metres, this is known as the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. From here, you will get spectacular views of Punakha Dzong and the Pho Chhu Valley.

Punakha Dzong

Located strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Dzong was built in 1637 by the Great Unifer of Bhutan as the religious and administrative seat of the region. It was here that the dual system of government in Bhutan was introduced in the 17th century. The first King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned here in 1907. Damaged by four fires and an earthquake over the centuries, the Dzong was fully restored in recent years by the 4th King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is now the winter home of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1,000 monks. Marvel over intricate woodwork by the best craftsmen in Bhutan. Visiting Window: Summer Timing: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Winter Timing: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Hotel

Zhingkham Resort or similar

3 star

Day 4 Punakha to Bumthang via Trongsa

About four hours’ drive from Wangduephodrang is the central district of Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family and from where the first two kings ruled the kingdom. Long before you reach it, you see the resplendent Trongsa Dzong in the valley centre. Its labyrinth of temples, corridors, offices and living quarters for the monks add up to a masterpiece in Bhutanese architecture preserved through professional restoration in 2004. Trongsa, literally "New Town" in the Dzongkha language, is where the current monarchy had its origin in Bhutan. Each King in the line of succession has held the post of Trongsa Penlop or Governor before donning the Raven Crown. The foundations of Trongsa Dzong were laid in the 16th century by. Its foundation was laid by Pema Lingpa and flourished during the 17th century under Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal. The impressive fortress is a massive structure, its wall looming high above the winding Mangde Chu Valley,commanding the east-west road

Activities

Chendebji Chorten

2 kilometres beyond Chendebji village is Chendebji Chorten, at a lovel0y spot by a river confluence. The large white chorten is patterned after Swayambhunath in Kathmandu and was built in the 19th century by Lama Shida, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that were killed.

Trongsa Dzong

It was laid in the 16th century by Pema Lingpa and flourished during the 17th century under Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal. The impressive fortress is a massive structure, its wall looming high above the winding Mangde Chu Valley, commanding the east-west road.

Trongsa Museum (Taa Dzong)

Sits high above the valley at a strategic vantage point over Trongsa Dzong. The "Tower of Trongsa" tells the stories of the dzong and the valley that it has watched over for centuries. His Majesty the King inaugurates the Taa Dzong as a museum dedicated to the Wangchuk dynasty, land marking yet another significant event as the nation celebrates 100 years of the monarchy. It has been restored into a classy museum that represents a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity. There are 224 items on display, include a sacred image of Sung Joenma Dorji Chang (self spoken Vajradharna), a bronze statue of Pema Lingpa, made by himself and a number of centuries-old treasures like dance and ritual costumes and objects, ancient prayer books, paintings and scrolls and textiles.

Rest In Bumthang

After the long drive, we rest for tonight.

Hotel

Valley Resort or similar

3 star

Day 5 Bumthang

Activities

Jakar Dzong

Pitched on a high ground overlooking the town junction, the Dzong was first constructed in 1549 by the great-grandfather of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery. It was upgraded in 1646 after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power. Jakar Dzong is now used as the administrative centre for Bumthang valley, and also houses the regional monk body.

Jakar Tshechu

The Jakar Tshechu, as all Tshechu festivals, honors Padma Sambhawa, also known as Guru Rimpoche, the precious yogi and saint who is credited with having introduced Tantric Buddhism throughout the Himalayas. The festival's masked dances are performed by monks clad in colorful brocade attire and permeated by chants and reading of Buddhist scripts

Jambay Lhakhang

This 7th-century monastery was one of 108 monasteries built in 659 by Tibetan King Sontsen Gampo to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region and who was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century. However, the inner shrine with the Future Buddha is believed to be there some 1400 years ago. Jambay festival (Jambay Lhakhang Drup in the late autumn) is famous for the Tercham. English speaking Bhutanese refer to this dance as the Naked Dance. Indeed, some dancers appear naked!

Kurjey Lhakhang

One of the most sacred monasteries in Bhutan. Built by the Guru Rinpoche in 1652, it houses a rock with his body imprint. Legend has it that Guru Rimpoche manifested as a Garuda to defeat the demon Shelging Karpo who had taken the form of a white lion.

Hotel

Valley Resort or similar

3 star

Day 6 Bumthang to Gangtey

The valley of Phobjikha is well known as the winter home of the Black necked crane (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan is home to around six hundred black necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. The elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to end of March.

Activities

Black-Necked Crane Information Centre

The valley of Phobjikha is known as the winter home of the Black-necked Crane (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan is home to around six hundred black-necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. The elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to an end of March. Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, which has informative displays about the cranes and the valley environment. You can use the centre’s powerful spotting scopes and check what you see against its pamphlet ‘Field Guide to Crane Behaviour’. If the weather’s iffy you can browse the library and handicraft shop, and watch videos at 10 am and 3 pm (Nu 200).

Gangtey Goempa

Situated on a forested hill overlooking the entire Phobijkha Valley is Gangtey Goemba, a monastery dating back to the 17th century. The largest Nyingma monastery in western Bhutan, it was founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinlay, the grandson and reincarnate of Pema Thinley, a 15th century “treasure seeker” who had predicted that a goemba named gang-teng (hilltop) would be built on this site and that his teachings would spread from here.

Hotel

ABC Lodge or similar

3 star

Day 7 Gangtey to Paro

The beautiful valley of Paro is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The country's only Airport is in Paro. The valley is also home to mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley

Activities

Gangtey Nature Trail & Explore Gangtey Valley

Located in the beautiful, broad and U-shaped glacial valley of Phobjika, the Gangtey Nature Trail is a very popular hike that takes people an average of 90 minutes to complete. You will start your hike near Gangtey Goemba, descend towards Semchubara Village and end your hike near a primary school on the other side of a metal bridge. The Gangtey Valley, also called Phobjikha Valley, is one of Bhutan’s most beautiful destinations. It is the winter home to a species of endangered black-necked cranes that arrive from the Tibetan Plateau every year. Gangtey is located in a remarkably attractive glacial valley called Phobjikha.

Paro Valley

The beautiful valley is home to many of Bhutan's old monasteries and temples. The valley is also home to Mount Chomolhari (7,300 meters) situated at the northern end of the valley whose glacier water forms the Pachu flowing through the valley.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 8 Paro

Activities

National Museum (Ta Dzong)

On a ridge immediately above Rinpung Dzong is Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower. In 1968, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as the first National Museum, and now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps, coins and handicrafts, together with a small natural history collection. Start or end your trip with a visit to this marvellous museum.

Paro Dzong (aka Rinpung Dzong)

Explore Rinpung Dzong, which the locals call the ‘fortress of a heap of jewels’. Built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong stands on a hill above Paro Township. It is linked by a traditional cantilever bridge called the Nemi Zam over the Po Chhu. Walk up the stone paved path running alongside imposing outer walls. Once inside the Dzong, you will be welcomed by the monks, architecture and beautiful frescoes. This dzong is a highlight for art and history lovers.

Kyichu Lhakhang

At 1,300 years old, this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Like the Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and vanquish an ogress that was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Legend has it that all 108 temples were built in a single night. The Kyichhu temple’s name means “reservoir of peace”. Next to the temple is a museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. You will see photographs and other personal artefacts belonging to the Rinpoche.

Kha ja Throm Paro

Initiated upon Royal Command, and as a gift from His Majesty The King to the people of Paro, the Ka Ja Throm has been built so that vendors can showcase and sell their produce in a vibrant community space. The Farmer’s Market has 147 stalls for vegetables, fruits, meat, and other local farm produce, and food and drinks. A children’s park and an open-air live-band stage are also part of the Paro Ka Ja Throm. The market is envisioned to be a lively public space place for families and visitors to enjoy while also showcasing the best of Paro’s local produce. The management will organize regular live performances at the venue, alongside food and drinks stalls managed by de-suups from the DSP Culinary training.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 9 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

Taktsang Monastery

Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, this monastery set dramatically on the cliffs of Paro Valley, is Bhutan’s most famous landmark. In fact, some tourists would even say that “A trip to Bhutan is not complete without climbing to Taktsang.” According to local folklore, the Guru Rinpoche flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress (his consort Yeshey Tshogyal) and meditated in one of the caves, before emerging in eight manifestations. A hike up to Taktsang draws people with different interests. It fills those who are spiritually inclined with a sense of peace, while avid hikers feel a sense of achievement upon reaching the monastery. Take time to process the mental and physical sensations that wash over you during the uphill climb as you ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor to reach the monastery.

Hotel

Tashi Namgay Resort or similar

3 star

Day 10 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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03 Oct 2025

12 Oct 2025

12 Oct 2025

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What customers are saying about this itinerary

4.98/5.00 (171 reviews)
MD

Melinda Davanzo

from United States, Jun 2025

Star 5 5.00

Really well thought out tour. Got a good mix of experiences. Yeshi & Segay (our guide & driver) made it extremely special. Warm, welcoming, engaging & very hospitable.

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JP

Jurate Pickard

from Ireland, May 2025

Star 5 5.00

DrukAsia organized a perfect 2 week long private trip in Bhutan for us. We had a wonderful experience, everything went smoothly, before and during the trip, we saw and did many wonderful things. Highly recommended!

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LK

Lye Kuan Song

from Singapore, May 2025

Star 5 5.00

Booking with DrukAsia for the trip was a breeze ... from air tickets, visas and itinerary planning. Sangay from DrukAsia was prompt in replying to our queries. We were well taken care of by our guide, Yeshey Dorji, from Soultrips during our stay in Bhutan. Our itinerary incudes cultural tour, a 5-day trek and a hike up Tiger's Nest. Yeshey is very knowledgeable, both in cultural history and trekking routes.

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ML

Marissa Law

from Malaysia, May 2025

Star 5 5.00

As a solo female traveler, I was very well taken care off by the tour guide and the driver, who are part of a travel agent called Soul Trips. I felt safe and comfortable the entire time. The journey was smooth and timely. Druk Asia made the entire booking process very easy, and everything is sorted for you.

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K&

Krish & Sari

from Singapore, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

Thank you Druk Asia team. Bhutan has always been a dream destination and you and your team (special shout out and thanks to Ugyen Dema, our wonderful guide Tshewang Dema and our steady and safe driver Sonam Penjor). Very clear and well organized right from the first contact to the send off at the airport. Only thing we would request you to change is the hotel at Thimpu - we were the only guests at the Khang Residency and many of the amenities were not working. Certainly does not merit a 3-Star rating. Closer to 1-Star. Else thank you for creating a bueautiful trip to a beautiful country ! Cheers, Sari & Krish

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AK

Anton Kotov

from France, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

What a wonderful journey through Bhutan with SoulTrips! Yongko Dorji is an amazing guide, so knowledgeable, considerable, friendly and easygoing. Besides great personality, he is a well of knowledge about the country and Buddhism who made a visit to every temple and dzong memorable. He also adapted the trip’s drumbeat so skillfully to both make sure we see everything but don’t get exhausted - great personalization. Tobgay has been not only a great skillful driver but also a great source of finding the best spots for picturesque shots! Thanks a wonderful Bhutan’s discovery

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JY

Jie Ying

from Singapore, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

My cousin and I had a memorable trip to Bhutan from 30 March to 5 April, organized by SoulTrips. Everything was seamless, thanks to our travel agent Sangay Dorji who was responsive and helpful.We were warmly welcomed by our guide Yongko (Kinley) and driver Sonam at the airport. When my cousin experienced motion sickness on day one, they were thoughtful and made adjustments to help her feel better. Yongko was knowledgeable, passionate, and added a great sense of humor to the trip, while Sonam drove us safely through the winding roads. They were attentive throughout, always checking in on us to make sure we were comfortable and well taken care of.

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BC

Beeleng Chua

from Singapore, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

Our experience with Druk Asia was nothing short of exceptional. From start to finish, the everything exceeded all expectations. Our guide, Sonam was not only knowledgeable and thoughtful, but also offered deep insights into Bhutanese history, culture, and religious traditions. It was fascinating seeing how religion in Bhutan isn't just a set of rituals but a way of being. Both Sonam and the driver helped us not only observe but appreciate and respect this aspect of Bhutanese life. We return home with a heart full of fond memories and a deep appreciation for this remarkable country. We most certainly want to go back.

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PY

Peh Yu Pei

from Singapore, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

We just came back from Bhutan and had the most amazing trip! Everything was flawlessly organized by SoulTrip—every booking and reservation was handled seamlessly, which meant we could just relax and enjoy the journey. A huge shoutout to our incredible guide - NgaWang See Ring and driver - Sonam Thuji who truly made this trip unforgettable. Our guide was not only knowledgeable and passionate about Bhutan, but also extremely patient in explaining everything and guiding us throughout the trip. He had such a great sense of humor that it was never boring to travel with him—we were constantly laughing and enjoying every moment. He was a fantastic travel companion who made every day feel like a new and exciting adventure. Knowing we love hiking, he even adjusted the itinerary to include at leas

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CL

Catherine Lee

from Singapore, Apr 2025

Star 5 5.00

I have had a brilliant time in Bhutan thanks largely to our guide Chencho and driver Tsering. The tour has been magical, full of wonderful sights and experiences. The highlights have been Paro Teschu and a visit to the Pema Choling nunnery on an auspicious day. Temples and fortresses have been well explained. I will highly recommend Soul Trips to friends and especially recommend they request Chencho and Tsering as guide and driver.

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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$2,880.00*

*per adult
Check Availability Talk to us