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Classic Bhutan Tour

Quick facts about Classic Bhutan Tour

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Duration

5 Days

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Trip Grade

Easy

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Maximum Altitude

3120m

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Group Size

2 to 25 People

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Starts

Kathmandu

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Ends

Kathmandu

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Accomodation

Hotel

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Best Time

Autumn, Spring

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Trip Overview

The Classic Bhutan Tour is a short cultural journey that takes you through Bhutan’s peaceful valleys, historic monasteries, traditional towns, and beautiful mountain scenery. You will see the three most famous places in the country Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro in only five days. Every location is a unique insight into the Bhutanese past, religion and lifestyle and this tour is a great introduction to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

It starts with the scenic flight of Kathmandu to Paro where you can get a clear sight of the mountains as you enter into Bhutan. Upon arrival we will move to Thimphu in a landrover, capital of the country where modern development blends with ancient traditions. On the way to the locations, you will observe the old Bhutanese buildings, colorful prayer flags, mountain monasteries and quiet countryside landscape which demonstrate the national character of the country. Each day introduces a new destination and there is time to explore the environment without being in a hurry.

This Bhutan Tour Package will cover a visit to some of the most significant cultural and historical sites in Bhutan. Thimphu will give you an opportunity to study Bhutanese traditions, craftsmanship, and religious heritage by visiting the temples, monuments, and cultural sites. This road then proceeds to Punakha with a ride through the scenic Dochula pass which is a beautiful mountain top characterized by rows of memorial chortens and panoramic Himalayan scenes during sunny days. The beautiful Punakha Dzong is situated in Punakha and represents one of the best examples of traditional architecture in Bhutan and also has a lot of historical and religious significance.

The tour continues to Paro, a picturesque valley surrounded by forested hills and mountain peaks. Here, you will see National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong), which displays interesting collections of traditional art, historical objects and cultural displays that give you a better insight into the history of Bhutan. The next point of interest is the climb up to the renowned Tiger Nest Monastery, which is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Bhutan. The monastery is built dramatically on a cliff about 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor, offering beautiful views and a memorable cultural experience.

Your transportation, accommodation, permits, and guided sightseeing during the journey will be organized by our experienced team so that you may travel with confidence, both during the arrival and departure. The 5 Days Bhutan Tour offers a very comfortable and enriching travelling experience whether you are keen on Buddhist heritage, traditional culture, scenic landscapes or just explore an alternative lifestyle. With knowledgeable local guides, carefully selected services, and well planned logistics, Himalayan Idol Adventure is committed to making your Classic Bhutan Tour enjoyable, informative, and memorable.

  • Owner operated
  • Price match guaranteed
  • Tailored made trip
  • Secured online payment
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Trip Highlights

  • Scenic flight between Kathmandu and Paro.
  • Explore the cultural attractions of Thimphu.
  • See the ancient Punakha Dzong.
  • Pass over the beautiful Dochula Pass.
  • Hike to the popular Tiger Nest Monastery.
  • Learn the history of Bhutan in National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong).
  • Explore a Classic Bhutan Tour with knowledgeable local guides.
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Detail Itinerary

Your Classic Bhutan Tour begins in the morning with a flight from Kathmandu to Paro which takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. The flight will give you the chance to have wonderful views of the Himalayan range before you land at the only international airport in Bhutan.

Once the formalities of arrival are done, our representative will meet you and start the drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The scenic drive takes us along the winding mountain roads, through rivers, forests and the ancient villages.  On arrival in Thimphu we will check-in to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or explore the surrounding area if time permits.

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Activity: 5 to 6 hours

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Accommodation: Hotel

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Meal: Lunch and dinner

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Max Altitude: 2,334m/7,657ft. (Thimphu)

If our standard itinerary doesn't fully meet your needs, we are happy to tailor it to your specific preferences and requirements.

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Includes and Excludes

What’s Included?

  • Airport pick up and drop off services in Bhutan.
  • Bhutan tourist visa and permit arrangements.
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and applicable government taxes.
  • Four nights’ accommodation in hotels or resorts on a twin sharing basis.
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the tour.
  • Private vehicle for all airport transfers, sightseeing and intercity travel.
  • Professional English speaking Bhutanese guide throughout the trip.
  • Entrance fees to all monuments and sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Guided hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
  • Bottled drinking water during sightseeing.
  • Government taxes and service charges.
  • Full support from the Himalayan Idol Adventure team.

What is not Included?

  • International and domestic airfare unless specified.
  • Nepal visa fee (if applicable).
  • Accommodation in Hotels in Kathmandu.
  • Insurance of Travel.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, Telephone, drinks and shopping.
  • Tips to guide and driver.
  • Alcoholic drinks and other personal expenses.
  • Expenses caused by flight delay, weather conditions or other circumstances.
  • Any services not mentioned in the “What’s Included” section.
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Trip Information of Classic Bhutan Tour

Accommodation During Classic Bhutan Tour

During the Classic Bhutan Tour, you will stay in carefully selected hotels or resorts that provide comfort, cleanliness, and convenient access to the main attractions. Each of the accommodations is selected to provide a restful stay following every day of sightseeing and reflecting the warm hospitality and traditionalism of Bhutan.

The rooms are offered on twin sharing basis and have modern facilities including comfortable beds with personal bathroom, hot showers and other facilities essential to make a stay pleasant. The traditional Bhutanese architecture is also present in many of its properties, which will enable you to see the unique style of the country during your journey.

We are very attentive to our choice of accommodation in terms of quality, service, and location. Whether you are lodging in Thimphu, Punakha, or Paro, you are assured of a comfortable setting where you can relax and plan on what to do the next day.

Meals and Dining

Bhutan Tour Package consists of breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday during your stay in Bhutan. Hotels serve meals, or in local restaurants, providing you with a chance to taste not only Bhutanese food but also a variety of international cuisine.

The usual Bhutanese food consists of rice, vegetables, chicken, beef, pork, and local dishes. There are also restaurants that serve Indian, Chinese, and continental foods and thus travelers who have varying tastes will find suitable food to eat in the course of the tour.

Vegetarian meals can be ordered and most hotels can cater to regular dietary needs with prior notice. We will make sure that your meals are properly arranged so that you have a comfortable time during the journey.

Transportation

The Classic Bhutan Tour will include all transportation in comfortable private vehicles with an experienced local driver. Your airport transportation, sightseeing tours, and in-city transport are taken care of so that you have a good and smooth travelling experience.

Road trips between Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro pass through picturesque mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and beautiful valleys. Regular photo breaks may also be organized where necessary and you may have a chance of enjoying the natural beauty of Bhutan when moving between destinations.

Your trip begins with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro and ends with the return flight to Kathmandu. Throughout the journey, our team coordinates every transfer to ensure comfortable and timely travel.

Best Time to Visit

The 5 Days Bhutan Tour can be enjoyed throughout the year, although spring from March to May and autumn from September to November are considered the most popular seasons. These months are mostly clear and thus sightseeing and mountain views are especially pleasant during these months.

Spring is the season of blooming flowers, green landscapes, warm weather and autumn offers good weather and good visibility throughout the Himalayan range. Visiting monasteries, fortresses, and outdoor attractions are also best during these seasons.

The winter offers serene travel with less traffic and cold weather whereas the summer months are green and it rains occasionally. Each season has its own view of Bhutan and this means that the travelers can experience its culture and natural beauty throughout the year.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Bhutan. When booking the Classic Bhutan Tour, our team will make things easier by helping you with the visa application process and having the necessary documents sent in before your arrival.

You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining on the day you travel. Once you have your Bhutan visa, you will be issued with an official visa clearance letter and you will be able to board a flight to Paro.

Visitors are also advised to check the Nepal visa requirements in case your trip begins or ends in Kathmandu. Our team is happy to advise on Bhutan and Nepal entry requirements prior to your departure.

Bhutan Permits and Sustainable Development Fee

Before entering Bhutan, all visitors must have their tour approved and the required permits arranged. Himalayan Idol Adventure takes care of these arrangements as part of your Bhutan Tour Package so that you need not worry about them anymore.

The Bhutanese government also requires visitors to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) that helps in conserving the environment, preserving the culture, educating, providing healthcare, and developing tourism around the nation.

You have your permits and other relevant government charges made in advance, and you can go on to enjoy your trip. Our team ensures that all required travel documents are prepared in advance for a smooth travel experience.

Health and Safety

The Classic Bhutan Tour is suitable for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. The itinerary includes comfortable road journeys, easy sightseeing walks and a moderate hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It is suitable for most travelers with good mobility.

Bhutan is considered a safe destination with peaceful surroundings and welcoming local communities. We have highly trained guides who will always guide you throughout the tour offering guidance and making sure that the activities of every day are done safely and comfortably.

We suggest bringing any personal medications, drink plenty of water, and comfortable shoes when sightseeing. It will be best to follow the instructions of your guide on the hike and tours about cultural sites to make the travel experience enjoyable.

Travel Insurance

Although travel insurance is not mandatory for entering Bhutan, it is strongly recommended for every traveler joining the Classic Bhutan Tour. A comprehensive travel insurance policy provides financial protection against unexpected situations that may arise before or during your trip.

Your insurance must preferably cover trip cancellation, medical treatment, emergency evacuation, flight delays, lost baggage and other travel related emergencies. Proper coverage will enable you to have a lot of confidence when you are on the trip.

Check your policy thoroughly before traveling to be sure it suits your travel requirements. If you have any questions regarding recommended coverage, our team will be happy to provide general guidance before your tour begins.

Currency and Payment

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency of Bhutan and is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee (INR). Personal purchases are usually done in cash form, with major hotels and certain larger stores accepting international credit cards.

Carrying a little local currency to do some shopping, snacks, and other small personal expenses is a good idea especially when we are in small towns or on local markets as card payment facilities might be scarce.

Bhutan has currency exchange facilities, and ATMs are located in large towns (Thimphu and Paro). Practical information on how to exchange money during your tour can be provided by our guide in case it is required.

Internet and Mobile Network

Mobile network coverage is available in most towns and tourist areas visited during the Classic Bhutan Tour. You can buy a local SIM card on arrival if you want to use mobile data during your stay. Most hotels and resorts have free Wi-Fi so you can stay connected with family and friends during the trip.

Internet is usually appropriate in handling messaging, email and simple browsing, but the speed can change depending on the location. Network connection can be weakened when travelling on mountain roads or isolated locations between destinations. Most tourists prefer to have these silent moments when they are enjoying the serene environment of Bhutan.

Packing Guide

Bringing comfortable clothes will make you have fun in every aspect of the 5 Days Bhutan Tour. Light clothes are appropriate during sightseeing in the day, whereas a warm jacket is necessary in cool mornings, evenings, and at higher altitudes.

It is important to have comfortable walking shoes, particularly during the hike to Tiger Nest Monastery. Other useful items are sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, rain protection and a small day pack which can be used during daily excursions.

Do not leave behind your passport, travel documents, medications, camera and personal essentials. Light packing but carrying everything you require will make your journey easy at arrival and departure.

Cultural Etiquette

Bhutan places great importance on preserving its traditions and religious heritage. Visitors are advised to adhere to the local traditions during their visit to monasteries, temples, dzongs, and other cultural sites during the tour.

It is advisable to wear modest clothing in places of worship and remove your hat before entering temples. Ask permission before taking photos of monks or locals and obey the instructions given by your guide in sightseeing.

Being respectful to the local traditions and the surrounding environment can also contribute to the formation of meaningful interaction with Bhutanese people. Even basic things like talking nicely and observing local traditions make the traveling experience worthwhile to all.

Guide and Local Support

Your Classic Bhutan Tour will be led by an experienced English speaking Bhutanese guide who will take you through the whole journey. Your guide will also give you information about the history of Bhutan, its culture, religion and traditions and make sure that every day of your stay in the country is organized successfully.

Together with your guide, a skilled local driver will take care of all your transportation between the destinations and you will be able to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Bhutan. All transfers, sightseeing visits, and travel arrangements are well organized and coordinated by our team to ensure a comfortable experience.

With the help of local partners, Himalayan Idol Adventure provides quality service throughout the itinerary. You need some travel support, local advice, or even help in your trip, contact our team and we will be happy to make your holiday enjoyable and hassle free.

Festivals and Cultural Experiences

Bhutan is famous in terms of maintaining its rich cultural heritage, and your Bhutan Tour Package will provide you with a chance to learn about this particular heritage during the trip. Tours to monasteries, dzongs, temples, and traditional towns give a better insight into Bhutanese traditions, Buddhism, and life.

When you visit Bhutan, during one of its yearly Tshechu festivals, you have a possibility to observe colorful mask dances, traditional music, religious rituals, and celebrations, which unite local communities. Every year the dates of the festivals are different based on the Bhutanese lunar calendar, so every festival is a unique experience.

Outside the key attractions, you will also get to experience warm hospitality of Bhutan, traditional buildings, prayer flags and tranquility. These cultural experiences provide a significant touch to the Classic Bhutan Tour, ensuring that your tour is memorable even after you leave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The tour is aimed at tourists who wish to visit the most favored cultural sites in Bhutan within a brief timeframe and get to experience a comfortable tour experience.

The hike is considered moderate and typically takes 4 to 6 hours for a round trip. You may walk at your own speed, there are spots to rest on the road.

Yes. Most of the international travelers need Bhutan visa, which will be arranged by us before your departure.

The Spring months (March to May) and Autumn months (September to November) are good for weather, clear mountain views and sightseeing.

Yes. The itinerary, accommodation, dates or destinations can be changed or extra destinations can be added as per your choices.

The tour includes comfortable hotels or resorts with private rooms, modern facilities, and convenient locations in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro.

Yes. On the days you are in Bhutan you get breakfast, lunch and dinner and there is a myriad of Bhutanese and other international foods.

Yes. With good planning, families with children and older travelers without health issues can easily enjoy this cultural tour.

The baggage allowance depends on your airline ticket. We will give specific baggage information prior to your departure.

Yes. We may add more nights, more sightseeing or this tour can be added to other places in Bhutan or Nepal.

The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the official currency. Small purchases can be made with cash, and most hotels and large retail outlets accept international cards.

Yes. Most hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi, and mobile network coverage is available in the major towns visited during the tour.

Recommended items include comfortable clothing, walking shoes, a warm jacket, sun glasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and personal medications.

The tour visits places at moderate elevations, and most travelers experience no altitude related problems. The peak is the climb to the Tiger Nest Monastery, which is around 3,120 meters.

Yes. You will be accompanied by a licensed English speaking Bhutanese guide who will give you information about the culture, history and tradition of Bhutan as well as guide you through the sightseeing.

Photography is allowed at many locations, but some monasteries and temples do not permit photos inside. Each site will have rules which your guide will explain.

In case your visit times are around one of the local Tshechu festivals, you can enjoy the local mask dances and culture.

Travel insurance is optional, but highly encouraged in cases involving medical emergencies, cancellation of trip, delays during flights among other unforeseen circumstances.

Bhutan has its own official language, Dzongkha, although English is commonly spoken in tourism, hotels and by licensed guides.

Our Classic Bhutan Tour offers professional local guides, good travel arrangements, comfortable stay, and special care to make sure that your Bhutan tour is comfortable, smooth, and well arranged.

  • Owner operated
  • Price match guaranteed
  • Tailored made trip
  • Secured online payment
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