Bhutan Tour and Trek Packages

Why Visit Bhutan?

Visiting Bhutan offers a unique and enriching experience. You will be steeped in rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Well-known for preserving its traditions and the environment, Bhutan is called the Land of the Thunder Dragon. This country is renowned for its vibrant festivals, rich and ancient monasteries, the charming tradition of arts and crafts, and much more. If you plan to visit Bhutan, then the Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery and the lively Tsechu festivals are must-see attractions.

Bhutan’s natural scenery is just as impressive. You will find lush valleys, pristine forests, and majestic Himalayan mountains. With its numerous national parks and protected areas, Bhutan is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. Exploring this beautiful place, you will also have a chance to see a rare snow leopard and the endangered black-necked crane. Nature lovers will also have an excellent opportunity to undertake various treks, such as the Druk Path Trek and the Snowman Trek, in Bhutan.

Here’s the reason why you should visit Bhutan:

• Rich Culture: Bhutan has colorful festivals, ancient monasteries, and traditional arts.
• Stunning Nature: You will encounter lush green valleys, pristine forests, and majestic Himalayan peaks.
• Unique Wildlife: The country is home to rare animals, including the snow leopard and the black-necked crane.
• Excellent Trekking: Enjoy excellent trekking routes, such as the Druk Path Trek and Snowman Trek.
• Happy People: Bhutan prioritizes happiness over wealth, emphasizing well-being and cultural heritage.
• High-Value Tourism: Bhutan’s tourism is about quality, ensuring you have an authentic experience.

Best packages of Bhutan Tour

28 Days Bhutan Snowman Trek

The Bhutan Snowman Trek is an exciting adventure that takes you through remote and peaceful landscapes. This trek, which builds on the classical Laya Gasa Trek, takes you from Laya to the high points of the Bhutanese Himalayas. Unlike regular Himalayan treks, this journey lasts nearly a month, with 23 days of trekking and 4 days of touring different cities in Bhutan.

This challenging trek leads you into the secluded Lunana region and ends at Sephu Village in the Trongs district. The Snowman Trek takes you through untouched parts of the high-altitude Bhutanese Himalayas, where you will camp at altitudes over 5,000 meters.

Bhutan Tour for 3 Nights, 4 Days

A Bhutan tour, even a short one, offers a fantastic experience. During the 3-night, 4-day tour, you start in Paro, where you can see the fortress at Rinpung, the national museum, and the seventh-century temple at Kurje. You can hike to the Taktshang monastery (Tiger’s Nest), admired by Buddhists all over the Himalayas.

Next, you visit Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Here, you will see a stunning Tashi Chho Dzong monastery fortress. Taking this tour, you will be captivated by Bhutanese culture, the people, language, traditions, stories, and artifacts. You can visit Bhutan at any time of the year, but the best time is during the dry and pleasant weather from February to April or October to December.

Druk Path Trek in Bhutan

The Druk Path Trek is one of the best and quickest walks you can do in Bhutan. It follows an ancient trading route and connects the valleys of Paro and Thimphu, traversing high mountain passes. You will be treated to amazing views of rhododendron forests, alpine yak pastures, and stunning landscapes with snowy peaks in the background.

The trek takes you above 4000m on an easy trail. You will pass through areas inhabited by Bhutanese people and see beautiful, clear lakes that will uplift your spirit. When booking with us, we offer a 9-day package tour.

7 Days Central West Bhutan Tour

The Central Western Bhutan Tour is a 7-day trip. This package tour lets you experience Bhutan’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. You will encounter high passes such as Cheli La (3988m), Dochu La (3050m), and Pele La (3300m), offering breathtaking mountain views. Central Bhutan is renowned for its natural beauty, paddy production, traditional stone houses, stunning buckwheat, and monasteries.

The main attractions are Rimpong Dzong, Ta Dzong Museum, Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Changangkha Temple, and the National Memorial Chorten. You will meet the Drukpa people and explore the Haa Valley, Paro Valley, Thimphu, Punakha Valley, Wangdue Phodrang, and Phobjikha Valley.

11 Days Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tour

The Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan tour offers a picturesque journey through three countries in the South Asian region. This tour is appropriate if you have limited time but want to view the Himalayas. The 11-day trip begins with visits to famous places in Nepal, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Patan Durbar Square.

Then, you fly to Lhasa, Tibet, and visit the Potala Palace, Sera Monastery, Norbulingka, Drepung Monastery, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor market. After that, you go to Paro, Bhutan, and enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas. You visit Thimpu and see landmarks like King Jigme Dorje Memorial Chorten and the Botanical Garden. Finally, you return to Paro to explore more of the valley before flying back to Kathmandu.

How to get permits for Bhutan Region Treks?

Obtaining permits for trekking in Bhutan is essential. This helps you to ensure a smooth and legally compliant experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get the necessary permits:

Book with a Licensed Travel Agency: All treks in Bhutan must be arranged through a licensed travel agency or tour operator. They will handle the necessary permits as part of your travel package.

Obtain a Visa: Before applying for trekking permits, you must first secure a tourist visa. Your travel agency will assist with this process, as visas can only be issued after your travel arrangements have been confirmed.

Complete the Application for Trekking Permits: Your travel agency will submit the required documents to the Bhutanese government on your behalf to obtain trekking permits. This includes details about your trek, travel itinerary, and personal information.

Secure Protected Area Permits: Additional permits will be required if your trek involves regions classified as protected areas. Your travel agency will ensure that these are included in your application.

Pay Fees: The cost of the permits, along with the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), is typically included in your tour package. This fee helps support conservation efforts and sustainable tourism in Bhutan.

Receive Your Permits: Once your travel agency has processed the applications, you will receive your trekking permits, which you must carry with you during your trek.

Currency and Language in the Bhutan Region

The official currency of Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Both currencies are widely accepted in the country. ATMs are available in major towns, such as Thimphu and Paro. Still, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to remote areas where electronic payment options may be limited. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger hotels and businesses, especially for small purchases, but cash is often preferred in rural areas.

Similarly, the official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, which is used in government, education, and media. However, being a multilingual country, you will also witness various dialects and languages spoken throughout the region. Thus reflecting Bhutan’s diverse culture. English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and by younger generations, making it easier for tourists to communicate. Learning a few basic phrases in Dzongkha can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.

Is Bhutan Region Treks Suitable For You?

Trekking in Bhutan can be a wonderful experience, but it’s essential to consider whether it best suits your needs and abilities. You should have a good level of physical fitness since many treks involve high altitudes and challenging terrain. If you enjoy hiking and are ready for moderate to strenuous activities, you will likely find the treks rewarding. Additionally, many treks reach elevations exceeding 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), so prior experience with high-altitude trekking will be beneficial.

You must also consider your interest in nature and culture, as Bhutan offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Treks can last from a few days to several weeks, so ensure you have sufficient time to commit. Since Bhutan has a high-value, low-impact tourism policy, you will typically need to book through a licensed travel agency. If you respect local customs and are open to learning, trekking in Bhutan can be an unforgettable adventure.

Additional Preparation for the Bhutan Tour

Physical Preparation

Prepare for the physical demands of your trip, especially if you plan to trek or engage in outdoor activities. Bhutan’s varied terrain, from lush valleys to high-altitude regions, requires good physical fitness. Ensure you are healthy, and consider doing some training hikes to get ready.

Understanding the Culture

Take some time to learn about Bhutanese culture. You will encounter unique traditions and customs, so it’s essential to be respectful. Dress modestly when visiting monasteries and temples. Familiarize yourself with local etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering a home or a sacred place.

Planning Your Itinerary

Plan your itinerary to make the most of your trip. Include visits to iconic sites like Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) and Punakha Dzong. If possible, schedule your trip to coincide with a Tsechu festival to experience Bhutan’s rich cultural celebrations. Additionally, consider adding a trek, such as the Druk Path Trek, to explore the stunning natural landscapes.

Best Season to Visit Bhutan

The best season to visit Bhutan largely depends on your interests and the activities you wish to enjoy. However, two main periods are widely considered ideal for travel: Spring and Autumn. Here is a brief description of why you should consider these two trekking seasons:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is an excellent time to visit Bhutan as the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This season, you will see beautiful wildflowers and blooming rhododendrons. As for trekking and outdoor activities, spring is one of the best options, as the trails are clear and the views are stunning. Cultural events such as the Paro Tsechu and the Thimphu Tsechu are held this month, providing an opportunity for the formation of Bhutan’s culture through a deeper exploration.

Autumn (September to November)

Another good season to visit Bhutan is during autumn, when the weather conditions are favorable, accompanied by cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This time of year is perfect for trekking and sightseeing to experience the marvelous beauty of the country’s landscapes. This season is popular for cultural festivals, including the Jambay Lhakhang Drup and the Wangdue Phodrang Tsechu. Autumn is characterized by dry weather and vibrant foliage. Therefore, it is a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Off-Season

Winter Season (December to February)

We recommend avoiding travel to Bhutan during the winter months, as temperatures can be frigid, especially at higher altitudes. The temperatures often drop below freezing in many areas, making trekking and outdoor activities uncomfortable. If you are trekking to higher regions, snowfall can also block mountain passes and trails, limiting access to the specific areas. If you prefer mild weather and clear trails, winter might not be the best time for your visit.

Monsoon Season (June to August)

The monsoon season in Bhutan brings heavy rainfall, making travel challenging. You will encounter frequent rain-causing landslides, muddy and slippery trails, and poor visibility, particularly in mountainous areas. These conditions can disrupt your trekking plans and overall experience. If you are looking for clear skies and dry paths, it is best to avoid the monsoon season.

Packing List

• Valid passport
• Bhutan visa
• Travel Insurance
• Flight tickets
• Cash (local currency)
• Credit/debit cards
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Warm layers (thermal wear, fleece)
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Lightweight clothing (for layering)
• Hat and gloves
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Personal medications and a first aid kit
• Toiletries (such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.)
• Camera and extra batteries
• Travel adapter and charger
• Water bottles and purification tablets
• Backpack (daypack)
• Maps and guidebooks