Bhutan Dragon Kingdom 8 Days

Tour Overview

Discover the magic of the Dragon Kingdom on this comprehensive 8-day journey through Bhutan, from the beautiful Paro Valley with its iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery to the capital Thimphu, the stunning Punakha Dzong, the historic Trongsa Dzong, and the spiritual heartland of the Bumthang Valley. Experience the unique Buddhist culture, the stunning traditional architecture, the vibrant festivals, the beautiful mountain scenery, and the warm hospitality of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Itinerary Highlights

Day 1: Arrival in Paro & Paro Valley

Arrive at Paro International Airport. Transfer to your hotel. Explore Paro: visit the Paro Dzong, the National Museum, and the Kyichu Lhakhang. Evening welcome dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Paro.

Day 2: Tiger’s Nest Monastery & to Thimphu

Morning hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). The hike takes approximately 2-3 hours each way. Visit the monastery and enjoy the stunning views. After the hike, drive to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour). Explore Thimphu: visit the Tashichho Dzong, the Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Dordenma, and the National Library. Evening dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3: Thimphu – Culture & Crafts

Morning explore Thimphu: visit the Folk Heritage Museum, the Royal Textile Academy, the Institute of Zorig Chosum (the School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, where students learn the 13 traditional arts of Bhutan), and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Visit the bustling Thimphu Weekend Market. Afternoon visit the nearby Simtokha Dzong (the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629). Evening attend a traditional Bhutanese cultural show. Dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha & Punakha Dzong

Morning drive from Thimphu to Punakha (approximately 2-3 hours), over the Dochula Pass (3,140 meters, with stunning views of the Himalayas and 108 chortens). Visit the Punakha Dzong (one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan). Visit the Chimi Lhakhang (the Fertility Temple). Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Punakha countryside. Evening dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha to Trongsa & Bumthang

Morning drive from Punakha to Trongsa (approximately 3-4 hours), over the Pele La Pass (3,420 meters). Visit the Trongsa Dzong (one of the largest and most impressive dzongs in Bhutan) and the Ta Dzong museum. After lunch, continue to the Bumthang Valley (approximately 1-2 hours). Check into your hotel. Visit the Jakar Dzong. Evening dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 6: Bumthang Valley – Ancient Temples

Full day exploring the Bumthang Valley, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. Visit the Jambay Lhakhang (one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century), the Kurjey Lhakhang (built around a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated), the Tamshing Lhakhang (built in 1501 with beautiful ancient murals), and the Mebar Tsho (the Burning Lake, a sacred site). Visit the nearby apple orchards and cheese factory. Evening dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 7: Bumthang to Paro

Morning drive from Bumthang back to Paro (approximately 5-6 hours), enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery. Stop at the various viewpoints. Upon arrival in Paro, do some last-minute shopping. Evening farewell dinner with Bhutanese cuisine. Overnight in Paro.

Day 8: Paro & Departure

Morning free for last-minute exploration. After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Concluding your 8-day Bhutan Dragon Kingdom tour.

What’s Included

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Driver
• Fuel Cost, Parking Fee, Toll Fee
• Accommodation in selected hotels
• Daily breakfast

What’s Not Included

• Entrance fees to attractions
• Tour Guide
• Meal (lunch and dinner)
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses