Glimpse of Bhutan

Expedition Schedule

March – May
September – November

Trip Facts

Difficulty

Easy

Country

Bhutan

Duration

3 Nights / 4 Days

Altitude

7320 M

Accommodation

Hotel/Lodge/Tent

Trip Start From

Paro – Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

Trip Ends At

Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) – Paro

Overview

The Iconic Pilgrimage to Tiger’s Nest

Bhutan is not just a country. It is an experience – a mystical, deeply spiritual kingdom where ancient traditions thrive, monasteries cling to sheer cliffs, and happiness is measured not in wealth but in well-being.

This 3-night, 4-day cultural tour offers a perfect introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Designed for first-time visitors, it captures the essence of Bhutanese life: centuries-old dzongs (fortresses), sacred pilgrimage sites, vibrant markets, and the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes that frame it all.

From the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of the most sacred and photogenic sites in the Buddhist world to the bustling capital of Thimphu, this journey provides an authentic insight into the distinct culture, age-old traditions, and spiritual heartbeat of one of the world’s most unique kingdoms.

Trip Highlights

Cultural & Spiritual

Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) – The iconic cliffside monastery
Rinpung Dzong – “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”
Ta-Dzong (National Museum) – 7 floors of Bhutanese history
Drugyel Dzong – Historic fortress with Chomolhari views
Kyichu Monastery – One of Bhutan’s oldest temples (7th century)
Traditional Bhutanese architecture – Whitewashed walls, red-and-gold woodwork

Scenic & Active

Druk Air flight – Panoramic Himalayan views on arrival
Mount Chomolhari (7,320m) – Views of Bhutan’s second-highest peak
Paro Valley – Terraced fields, traditional farmhouses, and prayer flags
Tiger’s Nest hike – 4-5 hour trek through pine forests and prayer flags
Cafeteria viewpoint – Rest stop with stunning monastery views
Local market stroll – Handicrafts, textiles, and Buddhist art

Essential Information

Bhutan Visa & Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)

All visitors to Bhutan (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian passport holders) require a visa.
Visas are pre-arranged by your tour operator – you do not apply at an embassy.

What to Pack

Item	Advice
Clothing	Lightweight layers for daytime, warm jacket for evenings. Modest attire for temples (shoulders/knees covered).
Footwear	Sturdy hiking boots for Taktsang; comfortable walking shoes for city sightseeing.
Sun Protection	Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat – UV is strong at altitude.
Medications	Personal prescriptions, basic first aid, motion sickness pills (for mountain roads).
Electronics	Camera, power bank, universal plug adapter (European-style outlets).

Cultural Etiquette

Custom	Advice
Temples & Dzongs	Remove shoes, hats, and sunglasses before entering. Do not point fingers at statues.
Photography	Ask permission before photographing monks or locals. Interior photography is often prohibited.
Prayer Flags & Stupas	Always walk clockwise around stupas, chortens, and mani walls.
Respect	Do not touch or climb on religious statues or artifacts.

Brief Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrive Paro → Transfer to hotel → If time permits, local sightseeing → Evening market stroll

2,200m
Day 02:

Paro sightseeing: Drugyel Dzong (Mt. Chomolhari views) → Ta-Dzong (National Museum) → Rinpung Dzong → Kyichu Monastery

2,200m
Day 03:

Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Hike → Approx. 4-5 hours round trip → Afternoon rest or explore Paro town

2,200m →
3,120m
(monastery)
Day 04:

Transfer to Paro Airport → Departure

–

Expedition Schedule

March – May
September – November

Easy

Easy to moderate hiking and trekking
Light packs (10kg)
Elevations often below 2500m
Easy terrain
Trek duration less than a week in high altitude

Package Details

Cost Includes:

Airport transfers + all ground transport by private vehicle
English-speaking Bhutanese guide throughout the tour
3-star hotels (twin sharing) – Hotel Olathang (Paro) or similar
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) – authentic Bhutanese and international cuisine
All monument, museum, and monastery entrance fees (including Taktsang)
Bhutan visa processing fee + Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Druk Air flight (if booked as part of package – specify separately)