- Carry a valid Passport (minimum six months validity) or Voter ID Card (for Indian nationals) for entry into Bhutan. Aadhaar Card and PAN Card are not accepted as travel documents.
- Keep a few passport-sized photographs and photocopies of your identity documents for permit formalities, if required.
- Pack layered clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly between valleys and mountain passes. Carry a warm jacket, gloves, and a cap, especially for Bumthang, Dochula Pass, and Chele La Pass.
- Wear comfortable trekking or walking shoes, particularly for the Tiger's Nest Monastery hike and sightseeing at monasteries and fortresses.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and a reusable water bottle to stay protected from the high-altitude sun and remain hydrated.
- The Tiger's Nest Monastery Trek is moderately challenging and takes approximately 4–6 hours (round trip). Walk at your own pace and take regular breaks. Respect local customs by dressing modestly while visiting monasteries, dzongs, and other religious sites. Remove hats before entering temples and follow your guide's instructions.
- Photography is permitted at many outdoor locations; however, photography inside monasteries and temples is often prohibited. Always seek permission before taking photographs.
Bhutan follows a plastic-conscious and environmentally friendlyapproach. Dispose of waste responsibly and help preserve its pristine natural beauty. - Mobile connectivity is available in most towns. Local SIM cards can be purchased after entering Bhutan, while international roaming may also be available through your service provider.
The best months to visit Bhutan are March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and mountain views are at their best. - Roads in Bhutan are mountainous with winding curves. If you are prone to motion sickness, carry the necessary medication.
- Weather and road conditions in the Himalayas can change unexpectedly. Sightseeing may be adjusted due to safety concerns, government regulations, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Follow your guide's instructions throughout the tour and respect Bhutan's traditions, culture, and natural environment for a memorable travel experience.
BHUTAN CULTURAL & SCENIC ODYSSEY
12 Night / 13 Days
Duration
12 Night / 13 Days
Tour Highlight
Tour Description
Discover the timeless charm of the Kingdom of Bhutan on this 12 Nights / 13 Days Bhutan Grand Explorer Tour, a journey through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, ancient monasteries, vibrant valleys, and rich Buddhist heritage. Beginning from the gateway town of Phuentsholing, travel through the capital city of Thimphu, the historic valley of Punakha, the cultural heartland of Bumthang, and the picturesque town of Paro.
Experience Bhutan's most iconic landmarks, including the majestic Tiger's Nest Monastery, the magnificent Punakha Dzong, the towering Buddha Dordenma, and the scenic Dochula and Chele La Passes. Explore the serene Phobjikha Valley, admire traditional architecture, visit sacred temples and ancient fortresses, and immerse yourself in Bhutan's unique traditions and warm hospitality.
The tour also offers an opportunity to witness the spectacular Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival (subject to festival dates), making it an unforgettable cultural experience. From peaceful monasteries and colorful prayer flags to panoramic mountain vistas and charming villages, every day promises new discoveries.
Perfect for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike, this comprehensive Bhutan journey offers an authentic glimpse into one of the world's happiest and most enchanting Himalayan kingdoms.
What's included
Airport pickup and drop from Bagdogra Airport (IXB).
Private vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the itinerary.
Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian nationals (if included in the package cost).
Sightseeing as mentioned in the itinerary.
What's Excluded
Airfare or any other transportation not mentioned in the itinerary.
Lunch and any meals other than those specified.
Monument entrance fees, museum tickets, and monastery entry fees.
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, room service, beverages, shopping, tips, and porterage.
Travel insurance, medical expenses, or emergency evacuation costs.
Expenses incurred due to itinerary changes requested by the guest.
Anything not specifically mentioned under "Package Inclusions."
Daywise Itinerary
Upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB), meet our representative and begin your scenic drive to Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan on the Indo-Bhutan border. This bustling border town serves as Bhutan's commercial hub.
Upon arrival, complete the hotel check-in formalities and relax for the evening.
Overnight Stay: Phuentsholing
After breakfast, drive to Bhutan's capital city, Thimphu, via the picturesque mountain town of Gedu (approx. 9,000 ft.) and the historic Chukha Hydroelectric Dam.
En route, stop at Chuzom, the beautiful confluence of the Paro Chhu and Thimphu Chhu rivers, an ideal location for photography.
Arrive in Thimphu by evening and check in to your hotel.
Overnight Stay: Thimphu
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Thimphu covering:
- Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Dordenma)
- National Memorial Chorten
- Folk Heritage Museum
- Simply Bhutan Museum
- Sangaygang View Point
- Motithang Takin Preserve Centre
- National Library
- Tashichho Dzong
Overnight Stay:Thimphu
After breakfast, proceed to Punakha via the spectacular Dochula Pass (3,100 m / 10,171 ft.), one of Bhutan's most scenic mountain passes adorned with 108 memorial chortens and colorful prayer flags.
If weather permits, enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, including Gangkhar Puensum, the world's highest unclimbed mountain.
Upon arrival, visit:
- Punakha Dzong
- Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility)
- Punakha Suspension Bridge
Overnight Stay:Punakha / Wangdue
After breakfast, drive towards Bumthang via Pele La Pass (11,120 ft.), the traditional boundary between western and eastern Bhutan.
En route visit:
- Chendebji Chorten
- Trongsa Dzong
- Ta Dzong Museum
Continue your journey across Yotong La Pass (11,155 ft.) into Bumthang Valley.
Visit the famous Yathra Weaving Factory at Chumey Valley before checking into your hotel.
Overnight Stay: Bumthang
After breakfast, explore the spiritual heartland of Bhutan.
Visit:
- Jakar Dzong
- Lamey Goemba
- Jambay Lhakhang
- Chakhar Lhakhang
- Kurjey Lhakhang
In the afternoon continue with:
- Tamshing Lhakhang
- Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
- Local Handloom Weaving House
If travelling during October, witness the famous Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival (subject to festival dates).
Overnight Stay:Bumthang
After breakfast, drive back towards Punakha via the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan's most beautiful glacial valleys and winter home of the endangered Black-necked Cranes.
Continue to Punakha and check into your hotel.
Overnight Stay:Punakha / Wangdue
After breakfast, drive to Paro via Dochula Pass.
En route visit: Simtokha Dzong
Upon arrival in Paro, enjoy sightseeing including:
Upon arrival in Paro, enjoy sightseeing including:
- Ta Dzong (National Museum)
- Rinpung Dzong
- Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge
Return to the hotel.
Overnight Stay: Paro
After an early breakfast, begin the unforgettable hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff about 900 metres above the Paro Valley.
Built in 1692, this sacred monastery is one of Bhutan's most revered pilgrimage sites where Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have meditated.
After the trek, return to Paro.
Dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight Stay: Paro
After breakfast, enjoy another day exploring Paro.
Visit:
- Nyamai Zam (Traditional Cantilever Bridge)
- Dungtse Lhakhang
- Druk Choeding Temple
- Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong Museum
Return to the hotel.
Overnight Stay: Paro
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion to the spectacular Chele La Pass (13,088 ft.), the highest motorable road in Bhutan.
Continue towards the serene Haa Valley, known for its untouched landscapes, traditional villages, and peaceful surroundings.
Later return to Paro.
Overnight Stay: Paro
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive back to Siliguri.
Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and relax.
Overnight Stay: Siliguri
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) for your onward flight, carrying wonderful memories of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Tour Ends
Travel Tips
Terms & Conditions
A non-refundable advance payment of 50% of the total tour cost is mandatory to confirm your itinerary. - 30% of the total cost must be paid upon arrival in Gangtok. - The remaining 20% must be paid prior to departure from Gangtok. Note: Failure to adhere to the payment schedule will result in immediate cancellation of the itinerary without any refund or compensation. All payments must be made in full and on time to ensure uninterrupted services.
Cancellation Policy
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing and will be considered effective from the date of receipt by Ease Tours and Treks. - More than 45 days before the tour start date: 50% refund of the total tour cost - 30 to 45 days before the tour start date: 25% refund of the total tour cost - Less than 30 days before the tour start date: No refund under any circumstances Please Note: - No refunds will be provided for cancellations due to natural calamities, political unrest, acts of God, or other force majeure events beyond our control - No refunds will be issued for unused services, early departures, or missed segments of the itinerary - Any eligible refund will be processed within 30 working days from the date of cancellation ADDITIONAL TERMS - Vehicle services are provided strictly on a point-to-point basis and are not at the disposal of the traveler. This means vehicles will drop guests at the hotel or market after completing the scheduled sightseeing. - Ease Tours and Treks reserves the right to amend, modify, or cancel any service without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances or operational constraints.
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