Overview
Experience the timeless charm of the Kingdom of Bhutan on this 8-day Bhutan cultural tour, perfectly designed for travelers entering by road through Phuentsholing. This journey takes you through Bhutan’s most iconic destinations—Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, and Paro—blending ancient monasteries, Himalayan passes, scenic valleys, and vibrant local culture.
From the spiritual heights of Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the grandeur of Punakha Dzong, and from the serene beauty of Dochula Pass to the cultural heart of Thimphu, this tour offers a complete introduction to Bhutan’s heritage, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Itinerary
Arrive at Phuentsholing, Bhutan’s main entry point by road, located at the Himalayan foothills on the India–Bhutan border. Meet your tour representative and check into the hotel.
Phuentsholing is a fascinating blend of Indian and Bhutanese cultures and serves as Bhutan’s commercial hub. In the evening, visit Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang, a beautiful temple representing Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly abode. Explore the local markets and town.
Overnight stay in Phuentsholing
(Altitude: 300 m)
After breakfast, drive toward Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. En route, visit Kharbandi Gompa, offering panoramic views of Phuentsholing and the Indian plains. Continue via scenic mountain roads, stopping at Gedu University, Chukha town, and Chuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers.
Arrive in Thimphu, a unique capital city known for its harmony of tradition and modern life. Evening free for a walk around the city center.
Overnight stay in Thimphu
(Altitude: 2,320 m)
Explore Thimphu’s top attractions including Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the Third King of Bhutan, and Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point), one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues.
Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century temple popular for blessings, and the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal. After lunch, explore the National Library, Institute for Zorig Chusum (Arts & Crafts School), Textile Museum, and Folk Heritage Museum.
End the day at the impressive Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and monastic body. Evening at leisure with a visit to the Local Crafts Bazaar.
Overnight stay in Thimphu
Drive over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,088 m), adorned with prayer flags and chortens. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayan peaks including Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest mountain.
Arrive in Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Later, enjoy a short village walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous Fertility Temple associated with the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley.
Drive past Wangduephodrang town and its local market.
Overnight stay in Punakha / Wangdue
(Altitude: 1,300 m)
After breakfast, drive back toward Paro Valley, descending from Dochula Pass and following scenic river valleys.
En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress. Upon arrival in Paro, explore Ta Dzong (National Museum) and walk down to Rinpung Dzong, known for its exquisite wall paintings and historic significance.
Evening stroll through Paro town.
Overnight stay in Paro
(Altitude: 2,280 m)
After breakfast, choose one of the following excursions:
Option 1: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred site, perched 900 meters above the valley. The hike takes about 5 hours round trip.
OR
Option 2: Drive to Chelela Pass (3,988 m), one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, offering stunning views of Mount Jomolhari. Visit Dzongdrakha Temple, often called “Mini Tiger’s Nest,” followed by Drukgyel Dzong ruins and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
Overnight stay in Paro
After breakfast, drive back to Phuentsholing, retracing the scenic highway through Chuzom, Chimakothi, Chukha, and Gedu. Visit Kharbandi Gompa once again for final Himalayan views.
In the evening, explore Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang and local markets.
Overnight stay in Phuentsholing
After breakfast, proceed for your onward journey to Bagdogra Airport, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, or extend your trip to Darjeeling, Gangtok, or Kalimpong.
Your feedback means the world to us
Our tour guide, Sangay Wangchuk was knowledgeable, friendly, and deeply passionate about Bhutanese culture and history. His insights added so much depth to each location we visited, and he made sure we understood the significance of each place in a way that was engaging and easy to follow. He was always just a call or message away, ready to assist with any queries or requests, which gave us a lot of comfort throughout the trip. Also he entertained us with his beautiful Shero -shayri & hind songs during the long travel.
Every aspect of the tour – from transportation and accommodations to sightseeing and local experiences – was thoughtfully curated. Thanks to the Teem Travel, we could fully immerse ourselves in the beauty and serenity of Bhutan without any logistical stress.
On behalf of our Group of Four, may I thank you, your Guide Kinley Lekpa and Pilot Pratap for taking excellent care of us, right from the moment we landed in Paro Int. Airport on Aug 17, to the time we reached the Paro Int. Airport on Aug 22, to take a return flight back to India.All four of us are immensely pleased with your Company and your officers Kinley and Pratap for the kind courtesy and genuine warmth extended to us throughout our 6 day stay in Bhutan-rightly called as the Happiest Country in the World.
Our family had the most incredible experience in visiting Bhutan and I thank TEEM TRAVEL BHUTAN. I recently had the pleasure of touring Bhutan with Teem Travel, and I must say, it was a truly memorable and seamless experience right from the very beginning (Pick up from Bagdogra Airport), the planning and coordination were handled with professionalism and care, ensuring we had nothing to worry.
