Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour
Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour

Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour 8 Nights 9 Days

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Trip at a Glance
Duration9 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryBhutan
Maximum AltitudeBumdra Monastery / Bumdra Camp — 3,800 m
Group Size1-15
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
ActivitiesBhutan Sightseeing Tour
Best TimeSpring and Autumn

The Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour presents an 8-night/9-day tour of the best of Bhutan, starting from Kathmandu, which serves as your gateway to mystical Bhutan and includes a flight over the Himalayas from Kathmandu to Paro.

 And then Thimphu, visit cultural highlights in Thimphu and Punakha, return through Paro's sacred cliff-hanging Tiger's Nest Monastery only and return to Kathmandu. You will delve deep into the peaceful valleys, age-old dzongs, and living Buddhist culture of Bhutan, but not forgetting to take in some grand mountain views, rich local culture, and indelible scenery.

Highlights of Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour 9 Days

  • You will first land at Kathmandu, which is the bustling city of Nepal.
  • Fly or transfer into Paro, Bhutan, and then proceed directly to the country’s capital of Thimphu.
  • Discover Thimphu, a city with an enormous statue of the Buddha, crafts, shops, and everyday local life.
  • Scenic vehicles travel over Dochu La Pass with spectacular views of the Himalayas.
  • You will stay in Punakha, where you will have a chance to see the dzong (fort) and enjoy walking in the river valley scenery.
  • Return to the Paro valley and tour some of its temples, dzong, and market.
  • Trek to Bhutan’s most famous cliff-temple, the Tiger’s Nest monastery (Taktsang).
  • Experience much of Bhutan’s amazing culture, explore the intricate dzongs and temples, meet friendly locals, and switch between stunning alpine scenery on awesome drives.
  • Head back to Kathmandu for one last night before you’re dragged kicking and screaming to your flight.
  • There is nowhere else like Bhutan; you will soak up the chaos of Nepal and the peace, cultural, and natural serenity of Bhutan.

Trip Introduction- Bhutan Tour 8 Nights 9 Days 2026/27

The adventure starts off in Kathmandu, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and a generous dose of Nepalese hospitality all beckon. After you land and spend the night in Kathmandu, you’ll head out on an adventure over the border to Bhutan, a country so unique that it leaves you feeling like you’re on another planet. Bhutan lies deep in the Himalayas, and yet even deeper in tradition, nature, and spiritual peace. Valleys are green, peaceful temples, and you can sense culture, unsullied.

You will visit three of the country’s most iconic places on this tour: the capital Thimphu, Punakha (dominated by its historic dzong and rivers), and Paro (home to the famous cliff-hanging monastery).

You experience a lot in your days in Bhutan: from Thimphu’s mix of the modern with ancient to Punakha’s pristine valleys and magnificent fortresses. You will also visit Paro, resting blissfully and adventurously. A highlight is a morning hike to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), which clings high up on a rock cliff, affording spectacular views and plenty of contemplation.

You will enjoy the local bhutanese hospitality as the tour winds its way across mountain passes, with plenty of sightseeing and slower moments to soak it all in during the trip. The contrast between Kathmandu and the tranquil valleys in Bhutan makes this trip unique. And when you land back in Kathmandu at the end of your trip, you will have gained memories of a peaceful monastic vibe, remarkable mountainous views, and a land that cherishes natural surroundings as well as tradition.

The Benefits of Booking Your Trek with View Nepal Treks 

Professional Guide and Driver: Experienced Bhutanese licensed guide and good driver with a comfortable, safe vehicle that knows the way around, including where to find clean western-style toilets.

  • Paperwork at ease: We take care of all visa, permits, and SDF paperwork while you enjoy your holiday.
  • Small Groups: A smaller group or private tours for more personal attention, flexibility, and fewer people at the site.
  • On-Trip Support: The real people that we have working in our communities, are happy to work hard for you on your next tour with us, while full-time support staff is ready and waiting if anything unplanned should come up last minute.
  • What You See Is What You Get Pricing: Absolutely no hidden fees here.
  • Comfort and Safety: Clean and well-maintained vehicles, safe driving routes, comfortable lodgings on the rugged slopes of Bhutan.
  • Logistic Logistics: Great planning for transfers, sightseeing, and stoppages throughout the tour.

Is the 8 Nights / 9 Days Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour the Right Fit for You?

  • YES, if you're interested in experiencing a rich culture: You'll experience old monasteries and sacred temples (dzongs) while enjoying Bhutan's "high value, low volume" philosophy that makes it so unique.
  • NO, you're not up to moderate exertion levels: Expect to walk and hike and change elevations, so being in good shape will help you maximize the experience.
  • YES, you're fine with scenic drives and short flights: There are mountains to cross by road between Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha that make the travel part of the experience.
  • NO, you are just looking to take it easy and travel slowly: There will be rest days, but a number of locations must be cycled through, so it's going to be somewhere in between.
  • YES, if you're comfortable with the cost-structure: The cost of Bhutan's fees (visa, permits, sustainable development levy) and the tour inclusions mean you will be paying for a premium, meaningful experience.
  • NO,if you're interested in fast-paced nightlife or crowds: Bhutan is peaceful, culturally rich, low-volume by design, and the expectation of caring about advocating while enjoying a destination means it is not party-tourism focused.

Cost of Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour 9 Days 2026/27

The cost of your Bhutan Tour: 9 Days depends on the size of your group. Bhutan has its own innovative tourism policy based on the principles of high-value, low-impact travel, which guarantees that every guest who enters the country does so in a manner that is impactful and in harmony with culture. This is why Bhutan tours are sold as a complete package, including everything from accommodations to food, licensed Bhutanese guides, and private cars/drivers for the duration of your stay.

Solo travelers are charged USD 2550 for the Bhutan tour. This rate is ideal for the independent traveler who wants flexibility and personalized service from a local guide. Going solo means that you can discover Bhutan in your own time, and the entire tour is tailor-made to fit in with how long you have and what you want to see.

If there are a minimum of less than people in a group, then the tour price will be USD 2450 per person. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or a small family looking to travel together but also wants some separate comfort. The low cost also means the service need not suffer in attending the trip.

If there are 4-7 travelers of medium size group, the price will be slightly lower at USD 2400 per person. They will be charged less and still receive personalized services, have enough room in the vehicle, and good coordination on the way.

The best price is for a large group of 8-15 people and the price is USD 2300 per person. Another plus in travelling with a larger group is that you can share your culture more efficiently, there are more people to share the stories and spiritual experiences with.

Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour Package Cost for All Nationality

Group Size

Price per Person (USD)

Inquiry Available

How to Book?

1 Pax

2550

Yes

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2-3 Pax

2450

Yes

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4-7 Pax

2400

Yes

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8-15 Pax

2300

Yes

Contact Us

Important Notes to Know for 2026 Bhutan Visit

  • The government of Bhutan has implemented a tourism policy called "high‑value, low‑impact," which means tourists must pay a daily tourism tariff, i.e., development fee. 
  • This daily fee is called the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) (or formerly minimum daily package), and it applies to almost all foreign nationals (except Indian, Bangladeshi, or Maldivian) for tourism visits.
  •  As of recent updates, the SDF is now USD 100 per person per night until at least August 31, 2027, for "all other tourists" (other than SAARC nationalities) visiting Bhutan. 
  • For SAARC nations (ex., India, Bangladesh, Maldives), and others, different (much lower) permits or tariffs.

How Should You Prepare for the Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour 9 Days?

  • Book Early and Confirm Visa and Tour – Make full payment to tour operators to host you in Bhutan and receive your visa/permit; pay daily sustainable‑development fee.
  • Choose the right time: Visit in spring (March‑May) or autumn (late Sept-Nov), when the air is fresh, and the sky is clear.
  • Arrange documents and insurance: Confirm your passport has at least six months' validity, purchase travel insurance, and save copies of important documents both in digital and physical form.
  • Pack right: Pack layers, including a fleece or jacket (as altitude can vary) and a wide‑brim hat; choose comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a plug adaptor.
  • Be respectful of local customs: When you visit temples/ monasteries, follow the dress code (shoulders and knees must be covered); remove your shoes whenever the host asks you to.
  • Expect transport delays: Flights into Paro can be conditional on the weather; plan an allowance for extra time and take what you need in your carry-on luggage.
  • Health and altitude prep: Bring required prescription medicines, anti‑altitude if applicable, and basic first‑aid supplies.
  • Money and communications: ATMs in main centres, but bring some cash; get a local SIM if you want reliable mobile data.

Easy Customizable Dragon Kingdom Bhutan Tour

Explore the mystical “Dragon Kingdom” of Bhutan on our simple‑to‑personalize tour, along which you plan the trip according to your interests. Be there for the culture or just to take in the sights – a completely customisable itinerary, travel dates to suit you, and curated accommodation and activities await. Benefits of a tailor-made itinerary are:

  • You set your own pace more time in low valleys or maybe add extra trekking days.
  • Choose the places you love old monasteries, village communities, or high mountain passes.
  • It’s your choice to stay your way luxury lodge, a cozy guesthouse, or a family‑friendly hotel.
  • Hassle-free travel let our team manage the nuts and bolts, so you can focus on what matters.
  • With your customized tour, you will see the trip best for you that fits in with how you like to travel and use your time doing it, while making once-in-a-lifetime memories. Talk to us about creating your custom Bhutan adventure.

Kathmandu to Kathmandu Bhutan Tour

Begin and conclude in Kathmandu on this exclusive journey to Bhutan: Picture the golden opportunity of starting your trip with a plunge into exuberant Nepal and its lively culture. Then crossing over to the virtually untouched, divine landscapes of "the Land of Thunder Dragon.

It's the trip for you if an easy Bhutan Tour that starts and ends is something you are looking for. You begin from hectic Nepali streets, through to distance Himalayan monasteries, from lively markets through lakeside vistas. A few days later, you'll return to Kathmandu enriched, relaxed, and enormously inspired.

Since the travel ends and starts in a single city, you spare yourself from additional logistics associated with getting to new places on your own and are able to spend more time exploring, and you come away with an effortless, rich-in-stories experience. It's sophisticated, efficient, and emotionally rewarding, all that any conscious traveler really wants.

Travel Insurance: Why It’s Important for Bhutan Tour?

Medical emergencies and evacuation

Bhutan presents health risks in its remote mountain areas and also with high-altitude treks, due to the extreme paucity of medical facilities. Travel insurance also covers you if you fall ill, have an accident, or need to be emergency-evacuated (heaven forbid that might happen), so you are covered financially in terms of being able to afford hospital treatment or airlift services.

Trip cancellations or interruptions

There could be a natural disaster or bad weather-related delays, a personal emergency that requires you to cancel or cut your Bhutan trip short. Insurance covers non‑refundable expenses (flights, hotels, jobs) to protect your investment.

Loss, delay, or theft of private baggage and belongings

While traveling through Bhutan, it is possible for you to lose your baggage, get your personal belongings stolen, or experience delays in transit in some very isolated areas. Replacement of the items you need if a common carrier loses your bags, and reimbursement for any loss, regardless of whether or not you were at fault, including baggage that is damaged, vandalized, or stolen by the government, as well as lost due to a natural disaster.

Adventure activities and terrain‑related risks

You can hike, trek, and tour through rough terrain in Bhutan. These present risks of altitude sickness, slipping, or needing to be rescued from a remote location. If you choose insurance with “adventure activities” cover included, then they’re covered.

Itinerary

The Bhutan Tour: 9 Days from Kathmandu has a beautifully designed itinerary prepared by our team of seasoned local guides in both Nepal and Bhutan. The focus of the program is to make your cross-cultural experience as smooth for you as possible with a mixture of enough sightseeing, easy traveling, and impactful encounters. Although day day-wise schedule is the same for everyone, in some  cases it can be modified based on festival dates, room availability, and weather or road conditions. In these situations, your Group Leader makes the final decision, and we trust they will do so with everyone’s best interests in mind.

Because of the possibility of delays in flights and cross-border formalities, it is advisable for trekkers to keep a couple of days as buffer time at the end, arriving in Kathmandu with some contingency before onward travel. This can ensure seamless entry and a stress-free start to your trip into Bhutan. The price of this package is $2300 per person, and please feel free to ask us any questions or further customize requests.

Trip PlanExpand all

Your Bhutan Tour will start when your flight lands at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, which is encircled by rows of hills. The moment you leave the airport, you will experience the warm, down-to-earth air of the Himalayan area and realize the way in which the city may be viewed as a mixture of old traditions and vibrant modern beats. Upon arrival, you will be escorted by our representative and then be taken to your hotel in the streets of Kathmandu, characterized with colorful shops, prayer wheels, temples on the roadside side and crowds in a well-orchestrated disorder that is the key attraction to Kathmandu.

After taking a shower, you can explore the local markets or rest at hotel. You will pass by slim shrines in between the buildings, craftsmen crafting metal figurines, and sellers selling married garlands, incense, fruit, and Nepali foodstuffs.

Later in the afternoon, you will travel to a local heritage site, either Boudhanath Stupa or Kathmandu Durbar Square, depending on the time of arrival. In this instance, you will walk around the stupa with the monks, you will see pigeons flying around the dome, and you will see butter-lamp offerings gently lit up in the evening light.

In the evening, you will have a Nepali welcome dinner, particularly at night. You will have a food experience of items such as dal bhat, vegetable curries, and pickles, to which a briefing of your future Bhutan exploration is made. Today's trip will conclude with dinner, followed by getting back to your hotel and relaxing in preparation for your Himalayan journey the following day.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

You will be up early in the morning as you are heading to the airport to have your scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro. The Himalayas will be seen in a glittering panorama soon. Everest, Lhotse, and Kanchenjunga will run lengthways along the horizon, offering one of the most beautiful mountain flights in the world. Descending into Paro, you will appreciate the way the valley opens itself, with vast farmlands, classic Bhutanese houses, and, within the slopes, forests.

Your Bhutanese guide will be waiting in Paro Airport, where you will finalize the immigration processes. The road to Thimphu is a well-maintained, clean road cutting through rivers and pine forests, with villages in small groups. You will be passing by customary houses painted in symbolic patterns, and you will come across locals in national attire, namely the gho by men and kira by women.

Arriving in Thimphu, you will arrive at your hotel, where you will have lunch. You will make a visit to Memorial Chorten, where senescence followers will make a clockwise rotation around the shrine, turning prayer wheels. We will also be walking along the main street, which is filled with shops, handcrafted stores, and the little cafes.

Max Altitude: 2,200 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 1 hr 15–1 hr 30 min flight and 1 hr 15–1 hr 30 min DriveDistance: 400 km (air)

Your day will start with a warm Bhutanese breakfast, which will be followed by sightseeing in Thimphu. The first place you will see will be the image of the Buddha Dordenma Statue that is located at the top of the hill, looking over the valley. Once you climb to the top of the observation tower, you can have panoramic views of wooded mountains, a group of traditional houses, and the serene city on the lower side. You will also visit the giant statue and experience the calm atmosphere that was created by fluttering prayer flags and chanting by the local monasteries.

The second sightseeing will be in the National Folk Heritage Museum, where you will get to experience a typical Bhutanese home. You will get to know the way people lived in previous centuries and find out about the rural way of life in Bhutan, its food customs, and inner family traditions. Then you will proceed up to the Textile Museum, where you will get to observe fine handwoven fabrics, the very core of Bhutan culture. You will also get to see artisans, and they will show you how they weave, the craft that has been passed down over generations.

During the afternoon, you will be visiting Tashichho Dzong, a great fortress that contains government offices and monasteries. You can observe red-robed monks as they go about their day in its great courtyards and golden roofs. Then you will walk through the weekend market (assuming that you will visit it at the same time), where the locals will be selling vegetables, incense, handmade crafts, and dried chilies.

In the evening, you will stroll through Thimphu streets, cafes, bakeries, and souvenir shops will create a nice atmosphere. You will come back to your hotel to have dinner and sleep, as the next morning you will drive out to Punakha on a scenic trip.

Max Altitude: 2,334 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: Full day sightseeing (6–7 hrs)Distance: 10–15 km

Your morning will start with a scenic drive to Punakha, one of the warmest and fertile valleys in Bhutan. The road will rise gently until you ascend Dochula Pass at 3,100 meters. When coming to the pass, visit 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens on a hilltop. The Himalayan range will stand behind them on a clear day, a wall of ice and snow. You will have a good time walking around these chortens, clicking photos, and feeling the cool mountain breeze mixed with the fragrance of pine trees.

Following the tea stop at Dochula, you will descend to Punakha. The landscape will shift as cool mountains transition to warm, terraced fields and subtropical forests. In rice fields, you will see farmers ploughing and children walking to school in their modest attire. The valley will seem like a place at peace, where time has been allowed to slow.

You will arrive in Punakha, and on the way, we will also visit Chimi Lhakhang, or “Temple of Fertility.” You will hike some 2 hours to a village with whitened-to-wall farmhouses, which have paintings that are symbolic. The walk across fields is a short one, offering sights of rural Bhutanese life and agricultural scenery.

Also, you will visit Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan. The building will be situated between two rivers and will look like a giant ship on water. You’ll explore its spacious courtyards, gaze at ancient murals, and observe monks as they go about their daily chores. You will check into your hotel for the night later in the evening and dine in peace amidst the Punakha Valley.

Max Altitude: 3,100 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 2.5–3 hrs driveDistance: 75 km

Starting the morning with breakfast will give you an open view of the serene surroundings in Punakha. After checking out, you will begin your journey back to Paro. The road winds through forests of rhododendron, pine, and oak, and you will see small hamlets dotting the hillsides. You stop once again at Dochula Pass for one last look at the panoramic Himalayas (only if it is a clear day).

Further on, Thimphu is reached for lunch to continue the drive to Paro. Along the way, you will encounter farmers working in the fields, monks walking down the road, and families chatting near monasteries. You will realise that the landscape has now opened as you approach Paro Valley. Rolling fields, stone houses, and apple orchards will be all around you.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a leisurely walk in Paro Town. You will visit the handmade carpet stores. A few monasteries will be open for tourists where you can buy thangkas, traditional jewelry and carved masks, and exotic wooden bowls. You will also see the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a striking architectural wonder of cultural significance. You’ll walk across the wood cantilever bridge and through courtyards in the dzong where monks will chant in the darkness of gabled halls.

Then you will continue with a short drive to the National Museum in a watchtower above the valley. From here, you will have stunning views of Paro Town and Paro Valley. By late afternoon, you will then again drive back to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. A different kind of experience awaits you the following day when you start the trek up to Bumdra.

Max Altitude: 2,200 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 4–4.5 hrs driveDistance: 125 km

Day 6 of the Bhutan Tour is very exciting as we journey towards Bumdra Monastery. We are on our way to the trailhead. In the morning, after breakfast, you will drive into the countryside, passing farm houses and fields of barley or buckwheat with a backdrop of forests teeming with chirping birds. Once you get to the base, it's the start of your trek, climbing steady through pine and rhododendron forests. The only sounds will be those of birds and the wind, with fluttering prayer flags and an occasional viewpoint that opens to the Paro Valley below.

You will climb beyond this point to an open, sacred sky-burial area with chortens. This is the beginning of your ascent into the highlands. You will keep hiking along the rolling hills before finally arriving at Bumdra Monastery, which sits on top of a large alpine meadow. The monastery is perched in a so nothing-here-but-sky location among sheer cliffs, affording broad views of distant ridgelines. Bumdra means “Rock of One Hundred Thousand Footprints,” and you’ll find out about the myths associated with the sacred site.

Upon arrival, you will settle into your camp or lodge and then have lunch. There will be free time in the afternoon to visit the monastery. You’ll wander into its serene chambers, hear the chants of the monks, and breathe deep the clean mountain air. And in the evening, you’ll get to watch the sky change colors as the sun sets behind the peaks.

Max Altitude: 3,800 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 4–6 hrs (steep ascent)Distance: 7–9 km

After having breakfast, you will trek downhill towards the forest trail that winds along to Tiger’s Nest. The descent takes you around rhododendron forests, mossy trees , and vistas that reveal cliffside monasteries far off in the distance. On the way, there are a few small temples and meditation spots carved into rocks.

Following the way, you will arrive at some stone stairs going down; this is the main trail going to Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Once you catch the first glimpse of this monastery, situated on a cliff 900 meters above the valley, you will sense its spiritual power. 

You’ll hike on a dramatic route covered by forested sections, cliffside balconies, and a viewpoint where waterfalls cascade into sacred pools. From here, you will continue down to the bridge, and there is a final set of steps that lead up to the monastery.

In the monastery, you can see prayer halls decorated with statues, murals, and butter lamps. You will discover how Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave at this spot, which is why the monastery has its mystical reputation. Later in the afternoon, we will hike back down to the camp on rice fields below and continue driving to Paro.

You’ll be transferred back to your hotel for dinner in the evening.

Max Altitude: 3,120 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 6–7 hrsDistance: 11–12 km

This will be your last morning in Bhutan, enjoying a quiet breakfast and soaking in the serene ambience of Paro Valley. You will be escorted to Paro Airport as you leave for the flight back to Kathmandu. You will watch the patchwork of fields, rivers , and forests shrinking behind the wings as you take off in the plane. Once more, the Himalayan peaks will soar into sight for one final breathtaking glimpse of snow-tops before you touch down in Nepal.

After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon will be yours to relax or rest at the hotel. You can stroll down Thamel's busy streets, swarming with souvenir shops, restaurants, and musical instrument stores.

Depending on the time, you can also visit Pashupatinath Temple or Swayambhunath Stupa. Such heritage areas will bring cultural depth, and the aroma of worship, chanting monks, and incense will fill the air. You’ll see the ways in which Nepali spiritual life mingles Hindu and Buddhist practice.

You will end the day with traditional Nepali cuisine at your hotel and prepare for your departure the next day.

Max Altitude: ,400 m Meals: Breakfast- Lunch- DinnerAccommodation: GuesthouseDuration: 1 hr 15 min flightDistance: 400 km (air)

This is the final day of the Bhutan Tour. Today, you will check out from the hotel after a warm breakfast and prepare for your departure. You can take a short walk around Kathmandu and do last minute shopping, if time allows.

After that, our representative will drive you to Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will head home full of memories.

Max Altitude: 1,400 m Meals: Breakfast
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Cost Details
Includes
  • All arrival and departure transportation airport / hotel / airport.
  • Twin sharing accommodation in Bhutan at tourist standard hotels full board (B-L-D).
  • Three Star (Tourist Standard) hotel in Kathmandu with bed / breakfast basis.
  • Airfare Kathmandu / Paro / Kathmandu (if flying back to Nepal after Bhutan trip).
  • A guide who can speak English and government licensed.
  • Food in Bhutan B-L-D
  • Bhutan Visa & Applicable Travel Permit.
  • Sightseeing tour in Bhutan as per itinerary with entrance ticket.
  • Welcome or Farewell dinner in Kathmandu at authentic Nepalese restaurant with cultural programs.
Excludes
  • Nepal Visa-International airfare before and after Nepal, personal travel / medical insurance.
  • Emergency evacuation by any means of transportation
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Entrance ticket and food while sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • Early return from the trip due to personal / medical problem in this case clients should bear his / her own expenses.
Essential Information

Best Time For Bhutan Tour 9 Days

Autumn Season (September–November)

Autumn is one of the most wonderful times to visit Bhutan – the monsoon will have departed, leaving behind crunchy ground and clear blue skies, perfect for mountain views. At the same time, the air will be crisp and dry, making excursions to sites like Tiger’s Nest, Dochula Pass, and Phobjikha Valley more enjoyable. 

The river flows crystal clear, the forests glow golden, and the distant snow-capped Himalayan peaks appear sharp and well-defined, and so are camera-ready for photography enthusiasts, sight-seers, or outdoor explorers.

The fall will also bring some of Bhutan’s most splendid festivals, including the Thimphu and Paro Tsechus. These festivals will bring the floors of ancient dzongs to life with masked dances and colorful ceremonies, and throngs of locals in traditional costume. 

Travellers can encounter a lively cultural scene, combined with more palatable daytime temperatures and settled conditions. It is for this perfect union of natural splendour and cultural wealth that autumn will always be the best time to travel to Bhutan.

Spring Season (March–May)

Spring turns Bhutan into a riot of colour with rhododendrons, magnolias, and wildflowers adorning the hillsides and forest floors like colourful carpets. The weather will be temperate and pleasant, perfect for hiking or nature walks, and for visiting monasteries that are built on hills. 

Clear mornings followed by gentle afternoons will keep you refreshed while getting out in nature, especially in the valleys (Punakha, Paro, and Haa).

This season also offers a vibrant schedule of cultural and local festivals, which provide an insight into Bhutan’s culture. Markets will liven up, farmers will start work on the fields, and life in villages will seem energetic as winter recedes.

Stable weather, fresh new foliage, and long daylight hours (the second-best time to visit Bhutan after autumn) will provide a peaceful and scenic cultural scene here amid the gentle breeze of spring.

Off Season Tour to Bhutan

Monsoon Season (June–August)

Thick monsoon rains will lead to more regular soaking and muddy trails and a string of days with increased risk of landslips and road blocks, which means less reliable trekking or road traveling. This means traveling to Bhutan during the heavy monsoon is not recommended.

Although the hills will turn verdant, and visitors will dwindle, flight delays, flash floods, and disrupted services will render logistics uncertain for most travelers.

Winter Season (December–February)

The winter season is another off-season time to visit Bhutan. Travelers find cold nights and snow at higher elevations with frequent closures of high passes, making the alpine treks rare. Besides, the mountain routes will be dry, icy, and wild, making the navigation more challenging.

Although the skies frequently clear to breath-taking effect, visitors during winter will have shorter daylight hours, fewer services in remote areas, and icy road conditions that may impact comfort and flexibility.

What to Pack for Your Bhutan Adventure?

  • A copy of your passport and visa, always keep them in a separate place.
  • Information about your travel insurance + emergency contacts.
  • Layamines clothing: moisture‑wicking base layers, insulating mid‑layers (fleece/down), and a waterproof outer shell (jacket + pants) to be ready for the sudden shifts in weather in Bhutan.
  • Long pants/skirts and long-sleeve tops for the temples/dzongs – no shorts or sleeveless tops.
  • Tough hiking boots (waterproof, ankle support) with comfortable shoes/sandals for evenings.
  • Daypack (20‑30L) with rain cover + main duffel/backpack (waterproof bag is the best).
  • Sunscreen: brimmed hat, UV sunglasses, high SPF sunblock & lip protection.
  • Simple first aid/medications (including altitude medicines if required).
  • Accessories: water bottle/hydration system (2L+), camera with extra batteries, universal adapter, dry bags/Ziplocs for electronics and documents.
  • Snacks, small presents for guides/locals , and some cash that can be used as tips and souvenirs.

Accommodation During Bhutan Tour

The Bhutan tour will also assist in accommodating with comfort and the warm welcome that Bhutan is accustomed to. You will spend your nights in selected hotels and comfortable lodges along the way that will provide you with clean rooms, a serene environment, and caring service. The majority of the properties will be traditional architecture of Bhutan, with the interior being wooden, lighting soft, as well as valleys, forests, or remote mountains. 

The journey will be accompanied by a hot meal, comfortable beds, and a place with a small number of people after every day of exploration. Whether it is in Paro, Thimphu, or Punakha, your stay will have a very friendly environment that will add to your travelling experience.

Local Festivals and Culture in Bhutan

Paro Tshechu

Paro Tshechu is among some of the most popular Bhutanese religious events, where travelers can get an opportunity to see the sacred mask dances and religious rites in a vibrant, colorful environment. It is a five-day-long festival held each spring in the courtyard of the Paro Dzong, where locals and visitors convene dressed in their best traditional garments.

The pinnacle of the festival is the rolling out of a massive holy Thangka, which is said to bring blessings to whoever views it. The festival is crucial in ensuring the keeping of Buddhist legends in Bhutan and also enables the guests to immerse themselves in the centuries-old traditions.

Punakha Drubchen

Punakha Drubchen celebrates the birth of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the saint to whom the unification of Bhutan is attributed. Experienced in the grand Punakha Dzong, this is a festival that involves theatrical recreations of past wars with actors appearing as warriors, demonstrating the military history of the Bhutans.

The dances, the colorful costumes, and the rich symbolism of the spirituality produce a strong cultural experience. Every February or March, Punakha Drubchen enriches its visitors with a sight of Bhutan in a fantastic combination of devotion, history, and festival atmosphere.

Thimphu Tshechu

Thimphu Tshechu is the most important festival held in Bhutan, attended by thousands of spectators (Bhutanese and international). Holy Cham dances, rich costumes, and traditional music are part of this three-day festival, which takes place when attended by monks and lay performers.

The festival takes place in September, when the weather is brown and beautiful, and thus the festival would be best suited to travelers who seek to have a mix of both cultural experience with scenic tours. This festival is one of the most memorable cultural exhibitions in Bhutan due to the energy, color, and devotion that go into the festival.

Jambay Lhakhang Drup

Jambay Lhakhang Drup, which is held at one of the oldest temples in the Bumthang Valley, gives a very rare insight into the mystical history of Bhutan. The sacred fire ceremony (where the participants cross through fires, thinking it cleanses their spirit) is the most iconic ritual of the festival known as the Mewang.

Other exclusive attractions are the Tercham, or so-called naked dance, which is a ritual in honor of fertility practiced at midnight. Taking place during four days in September or October, the festival invites tourists to explore the spiritual nature and the ancient traditions, and the cultural worship in Bhutan.

Haa Summer Festival

The Haa Summer festival is an exhibition of the rich culture and pastoral life of one of the most picturesque valleys in Bhutan. The event is held in July and is attended by the local communities as they celebrate their folk dances, music, yak riding contests, and have fun with their archery. Tourists will get an opportunity to sample local food, visit nomadic herders, and see how life is in the highlands. The festival is an ideal window into the rural Bhutanese culture due to the natural beauty and the warm feeling of the festival.

Black-Necked Crane Tshechu

With the arrival of the endangered black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley in November, people gather in a soulful festival not only to celebrate nature but also the community. The locals dance as cranes around the event, doing dances with chants and traditional music as a way of appreciating the existence of the birds.

Through this festival, one sees that Bhutan is dedicated to preservation, and they can observe the strong connection between culture, wildlife, and nature. It is a significant feast, which unites nature and religion.

Food Options During Bhutan Tour

When traveling through Bhutan, it is a must to give the country’s unique cuisine a taste. Bhutan is famous for its organic farms and its love of chilies, so you’ll find that many dishes are hearty and spicy. During your journey, you will taste a range of typical meals and drinks that are representative of Bhutanese culture and tradition.

Do not miss trying this one is Ema Datshi, which also happens to be the national food of Bhutan. This fiery mix of chilies and cheese is a staple in nearly every kitchen and eatery. It is best eaten with rice, and you would also love it with potatoes, mushrooms, or beans.

Another common variety is momo, a dumpling containing stuffings such as cheese, meat, or cabbage. While momos are found throughout the Himalayas, Bhutanese momos have a unique regional flavor, and for anyone on a budget, these can be one of the best things to maintain energy levels.

If you are non non-vegetarian, give Phaksha Paa a try. It is a spicy pork dish made with radish and chilies, served normally with red rice. Jasha Maroo, a hot and spicy chicken stew cooked with onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and chilies, is another comforting dish that makes its way on most people's tables during the cooler months.

Bhutan also offers unique beverages. Butter Tea (Suja), a tea with butter and salt that is traditionally served as a sign of good hospitality. It is also used to keep the body warm in high altitudes. Those interested in local alcoholic beverages may get a chance to try Ara, a traditional beverage made from fermented rice, barley, or wheat, when offered at cultural events and ceremonies.

Local Guides and Support Staff

Having local guides and support staff on your tour can change the whole experience of traveling in Bhutan. 

These local professional guides are familiar with the landscape, culture, language, and rhythms of Bhutanese life, not just passing through but truly integrating as participants. 

For example, your guide will reveal why certain temples display certain symbols, help you engage with local customs with respect, and ultimately personalize the itinerary to make the most of a hidden site of interest. 

The support staff, porters, drivers, and local assistants are dealing with logistics behind the scenes so that you don’t have to think about anything but the immediate experience. 

It is their local knowledge that will ultimately allow you to navigate remote roads, steep trails, and rural villages safely and comfortably. 

You are not just visiting Bhutan. You are experiencing it as a participant—with people who actually care about you, the traveler. 

Bhutanese Hospitality Experience

One of the things our clients love about traveling in Bhutan is the genuine friendliness and warmth of the people. And time and again, the locals make a concerted effort to bring you into their farmhouse to enjoy a hearty meal and share stories, all to make you feel at home in a foreign land thousands of miles from your own.

This hospitality provides a richer layer of culture and an experience that's more intense and personal you're not just ticking off sights, but also connecting to people. Whether it's an old villager in the village offering you a cup of tea or an innkeeper telling you some local customs, this kind of human factor is as if travel has a new meaning. So, embrace the interaction, and you will feel the soul of Bhutan.

Connectivity and Mobile Coverage

  • Connectivity is now much better than it used to be, thanks to Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell, which offer 4G coverage in many towns and tourist areas.
  • You’ll get good mobile signal and data in locations such as the capital, most major valleys, and many cultural points. Although, as you start to go more remote, or on a high‑altitude trek, coverage may drop off a cliff.
  • As a precaution, download maps pre-travel, lay off-line resources on hand, and don’t just depend on mobile connections. Still, for an average tourist, you’ll be able to keep in touch, trade experiences, and find your way around.

Health and Emergency Services

  • There is access to health services and emergency services across Bhutan, but there are some limitations – particularly in remote areas. Major centres will have hospitals and clinics; however, in more remote areas, ambulance services may not be available or may be slow.
  • In emergencies, you can call numbers such as 112 (ambulance) and 113 (police).
  • It is highly recommended to carry medical insurance that is substantial enough to cover medical expenses, transfers, and repatriations, as you may need to evacuate or transfer to receive another level of care, potentially at a high cost.
  • Make sure to bring any necessary medications, prepare your health information, and keep close to a trusted support person when travelling into less developed areas.

Common Bhutanese Phrases to Know Before You Bhutan Dragon Kingdom Tour

To experience the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of both in one visit is a rarity in today’s globalised world. Knowledge of even a few words of the local language, Dzongkha, is respectful and gives you access. Though many people speak English, saying “hello” in Dzongkha more often than not pays off with a handshake and sometimes even a genuine grin.

From sharing a cup of tea in a village to hiking high into the mountains or shopping in town, simple phrases will enhance your experience and connect you with Bhutan’s special story. Here are some of the useful Dzongkha phrases for your Bhutan trip:

  • Kuzu zangpo la: Hello (formal)
  • Kuzu zangpo: Hello (informal)
  • Gaday bay zhui?: How are you?
  • Nga lekshom yö: I’m fine.
  • Chhoe gi ming ga chi mo?: What is your name?
  • Nga gi ming … in: My name is …
  • Chhoe gatey lä mo?: Where are you from?
  • Nga … lä in: I am from …
  • Kadrin chhe la: Thank you.
  • Ing / Yö: Yes.
  • Men: No.
  • Di gadem chi mo?: How much is this?
  • Chhab sang gatey mo?: Where is the toilet?
  • Tsip maza: Excuse me / Sorry.
  • Tashi delek: Good luck / Best wishes.
  • Zhim bay: It is delicious.
  • Nga nau may: I am sick.
  • Gong phab nang mey la: Discount please.
  • Ani ga chima?: What is this?
  • Log jay gay: Goodbye (See you later). 
  • Chhab sang gatey mo?: Where is the toilet?
  • Tsip maza: Excuse me / Sorry.
  • Tashi delek: Good luck / Best wishes.
  • Zhim bay: It is delicious.
  • Nga nau may: I am sick.
  • Gong phab nang mey la: Discount please.
  • Ani ga chima?: What is this?
  • Log jay gay: Goodbye (See you later). 

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