Bhutan – Monasteries, Mountains and Himalayan Trails
Journey through ancient dzongs, serene valleys, forest trails and Bhutanese traditions
Discover Bhutan beyond the postcards, where ancient traditions, dramatic landscapes, and quiet mountain life come together. Journey from the cultural heart of Thimphu across the prayer-flag-lined Dochula Pass to Punakha, home to magnificent dzongs, rivers, and scenic countryside.
Venture into the serene Phobjikha Valley, walking through pine forests and open meadows surrounded by the Black Mountains. The journey then leads to Paro, culminating in an unforgettable hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a Himalayan cliff.
A journey into Bhutan's timeless landscapes, living traditions and Himalayan magic.
Limited places available. Join us on this journey and experience Bhutan beyond the ordinary.
Important Note
The rates are valid only for Indian nationals holding valid Indian passports. Rates for foreign nationals or travellers holding other passports will differ.
- Thimphu’s Cultural Heritage: Discover Bhutan’s capital through its important monuments, Buddhist landmarks, traditional arts and glimpses of everyday Bhutanese life.
- Dochula Pass: Cross the spectacular 3,100-metre mountain pass, surrounded by pine forests, 108 stupas, colourful prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan views.
- Punakha Experience: Explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers, walk across a traditional suspension bridge and experience the peaceful Bhutanese countryside.
- Phobjikha Valley: Venture into a serene high-altitude valley surrounded by the Black Mountains, with a scenic nature hike through pine forests and bamboo groves.
- Paro’s Timeless Heritage: Explore the historic heart of Paro, with its traditional Bhutanese architecture, ancient dzongs and spectacular valley landscapes.
- Tiger’s Nest Hike: Trek through scenic pine forests to Taktsang, Bhutan’s legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff high above the Paro Valley.
Day 1: Arrive in Paro | Drive to Thimphu
Arrive at Paro International Airport, complete immigration formalities and meet the Foliage team. Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, through scenic Himalayan landscapes along the Paro and Wang Chu rivers.
On arrival, check into the hotel and spend the evening relaxing and settling into the peaceful rhythm of Bhutan.
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Discover Thimphu
After breakfast, explore Thimphu, the cultural heart of Bhutan. Visit some of the city's important landmarks, including the Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma and Tashichho Dzong.
Experience Bhutan's rich cultural traditions through its museums and traditional arts and crafts. The day also offers opportunities to enjoy panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley and get a glimpse into everyday Bhutanese life.
Return to the hotel in the evening.
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Thimphu | Dochula Pass | Punakha
After breakfast, check out and drive towards Punakha, crossing the spectacular Dochula Pass at 3,100 metres. Surrounded by pine and juniper forests, the pass is known for its 108 stupas, colourful prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan views. Continue to Punakha and explore the magnificent Punakha Dzong, beautifully located at the confluence of two rivers. Later, walk across the famous suspension bridge and through the scenic countryside to visit Chimi Lhakhang.
Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Punakha | Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley | Punakha
Today, venture into the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, a peaceful high-altitude valley surrounded by the Black Mountains.
Enjoy the scenic Gangtey Nature Hike, walking through pine forests and bamboo groves while taking in views of the valley. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, an important Buddhist monastery overlooking the valley. During the winter months, the valley is also home to the endangered Black-necked Cranes. Visit the local conservation centre to learn about these remarkable migratory birds and their Himalayan habitat. Return to Punakha by evening.
Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Punakha | Drive to Paro | Paro Sightseeing
After breakfast, drive towards Paro, travelling through the scenic Himalayan countryside. En route, stop at Chuzom, the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers, followed by a brief visit to a traditional Bhutanese temple and its historic chain bridge. On reaching Paro, explore the National Museum and the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, an excellent example of Bhutanese architecture overlooking the valley. Check into the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Paro | Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
Today is the highlight of your Bhutan tour. After breakfast, drive through the Paro Valley and begin the hike to Taktsang Lhakhang, popularly known as Tiger's Nest Monastery. Perched dramatically on a cliff face high above the valley, this iconic monastery is one of Bhutan's most revered landmarks. The approximately 5-hour hike takes you through beautiful pine forests, mountain trails and prayer-flag-lined paths, with spectacular views of the monastery along the way. Return to Paro after the hike and enjoy a relaxed final evening in Bhutan.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. As you leave Bhutan, carry with you memories of ancient dzongs, peaceful mountain valleys, forest trails, colourful prayer flags, and the unforgettable experience of standing before the legendary Tiger's Nest.
Meals: Breakfast
What is included in the tour
- Rates are applicable to Indian Nationals / Indian Passport Holders only.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as applicable and charged by the Royal Government of Bhutan.
- All applicable permit and entry charges as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Accommodation as per the itinerary on a twin-sharing basis.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Services of a local Bhutanese guide as per the itinerary.
- All transfers and sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary by air-conditioned Toyota vehicle.
- Monument and sightseeing entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Packaged drinking water during the tour, as required.
- Services of an Expert Tour Leader from Team Foliage.
What is NOT included in the tour
- 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax).
- 2% TCS (Tax Collected at Source)
- Airfare to and from Paro, unless specifically mentioned in the tour cost.
- Any optional tours, activities or experiences not mentioned under inclusions.
- Any upgrade charges for accommodation, meals, transportation or other services.
- Travel insurance and any other insurance premiums.
- Personal expenditure of any kind (Porterage, Telephone, Laundry, room service, etc.).
- Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
- Expenses that are incurred due to reasons beyond the control of the organisers.
- Camera fees or charges levied by any local department.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under ‘Charges include’.
