Discover Bhutan in 4 Days

Discover Bhutan in 4 Days

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4 Days From

$1515

Discover Bhutan in 4 Days

4 Days Starting and ending in Paro International Airport, BHUTAN

Visiting: Thimphu, Paro, Paro Taktsang

Tour code:

71355P3

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

1-80

Special diets catered:

We respect dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing, Walking

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $1515

NB: Prices correct on 24-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Perfect for discerning travellers with a limited time frame to get away from busy materialistic city life into the pristine natural environment, stunning landscapes and get pampered with Bhutanese hospitality. This short duration journey will take you to remote monasteries and encounter the mindful Buddhist way of life that earned the country its nickname ‘Kingdom of Happiness’. On the 3rd day of this trip, you will hike to the famous Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest built on the face of the 800m rock cliff.

Highlights

  • Visit sacred temples and magnificent Dzongs (fortresses) and marvel at the fine wall paintings, exquisite architecture and craftsmanship that still continue to influence the Bhutanese architecture today

  • Travel to Paro and Thimphu, the two most developed towns in Bhutan and immerse yourself into the mindful Buddhist way of life, away from the materialistic world, and discover why Bhutan earned its nickname the ‘Kingdom of Happiness’

  • Hike to 8th century sacred site where Bhutan’s iconic landmark, 17th century Paro Taktsang or

  • (Optional) Spend a night at a family farmhouse and get insights into the life of Bhutanese farmers

Places You'll See

Paro Rinpung Dzong

The Iconic Landmark In Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery In Paro

Smiley School Children Posing For Photgraph In Western Bhutan

National Museum Of Bhutan Housed In Ta Dzong - The 17Th-Century Watchtower

7Th-Century Kyichu Lhakhang In Paro

Impressive 169Ft Tall Statue Of Buddha In Thimphu, Bhutan

Traditional Foods Ready For Serving

Typical Bhutanese Farmhouse

Rural Village En Route To Thimphu From Paro

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Paro Inaternational Airport / Transfer To Thimphu (2334M)

Location: Paro International Airport, Thimphu

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Kuenphen Rabten Resort or Hotel Amodhara

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Arrive Paro International airport by either of only two airlines operating in and out of Bhutan; Drukair, the national flag carrier or Bhutan Airlines, a private airline which was started in 2011. Our guide and the driver will receive you on arrival and take you on your first adventure into the ‘Kingdom of Thunder Dragon’.

We will visit an auspicious 7th-century monastery Kichu Lhakhang which was built overnight by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in his quest to subdue an evil spirit, the National Museum of Bhutan housed in the 17th-century watchtower and get insights into rich cultural traditions, history and many artifacts. You'll also visit an impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong which serves as the office of the governor of Paro district and head of the district monk body in Paro. From there walk to the beautiful wooden cantilever bridge over Paro Chu river.

Transfer to capital city Thimphu, home to about 115,000 residents. It is the only capital city in the world without traffic lights and commercial billboards. If time permits, you'll visit one of the largest sitting Buddha statue in the world located on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu valley. If there is not enough time, we will visit the monument tomorrow morning,

Distance from Paro to Thimphu: 55km, Driving Time: 1.5-hours, Thimphu Altitude: 2,334m

Day 2 : Thimphu / Transfer To Back To Paro (2200M)

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel, Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Accommodation Name: Alternatively you may want to stay at the farmhouse with the local family to experience a glimpse of Bhutanese life

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we explore Thimphu city and visit some of the popular attractions in the capital. Later in the afternoon, transfer back to Paro for an overnight stay.

Begin the day by visiting the National Memorial Chorten built in memory of the Late Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk who passed away in 1972. People from all walks of life come here to pray and circumambulate clockwise. In the heart of the town is the Bhutan Postal Museum if you are interested in philatelic and stamp collection. His Majesty the King graciously granted several rare collections of philatelic and communications products giving additional insights into the history of Bhutan’s philatelic and communications systems. You can also have stamps printed with your own photo.

Visit the National Library & Archives of Bhutan considered as a national treasure and a fundamental source of Bhutanese history, religion, medicine, arts and culture. Located nearby is the National Institute of Zorig Chusum where 13 traditional arts & crafts of Bhutan are taught. You'll have an opportunity to see the students getting hands-on training. Both National Library and Institute or Zorig Chusum opens on working weekdays and on Saturdays from 10am-12pm.

After a sumptuous traditional lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant or at a similar restaurant, drive by the Changlimithang Archery Range to witness the game of archery if the match is in progress. You'll see archers dancing and singing each time the target is hit from a whopping distance of 145m. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan.

Transfer to Paro for overnight stay. Distance from Thimphu to Paro 55 km, Time 1.5 hours, Paro Altitude 2,200m/7,220ft

Day 3 : Hike To Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) & Later Visit A Beautiful Farmhouse For An Authentic Home-Cooked Local Cuisine

Location: Paro Taktsang

Accommodation: Hotel, Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Accommodation Name: Alternatively you may want to stay at the farmhouse with the local family to experience a glimpse of Bhutanese life

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After early breakfast, drive to Ramthangka, the base of the Taktsang monastery. Taktsang monastery is built on the face of an 800-meter rock cliff in Paro. It takes about 4-5 hours to do the round trip hike. Taktsang which literally translates to ‘Tiger’s Nest’, is regarded as one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan.

Towards the late afternoon, visit a beautiful farmhouse to experience local culture and enjoy authentic home-cooked cuisine for dinner. If you are interested in a home spa, you can soak up in a therapeutic and revitalizing traditional hot stone bath for an additional fee of about US$15. Specially selected river stones are heated in a wood fired fireplace and dropped into a chamber of wooden tub releasing minerals. You can lighten up with a warm cup of locally brewed liquor known as “Ara”.

Day 4 : Transfer To Paro International Airport For Your Onward Departure

Location: Paro International Airport

Accommodation: No accommodation on the last day of the trip

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depending on your flight departure time, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.

What's Included

  • Local Taxes

    All internal taxes are included

  • Meals – Full Board

    Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

    Land transport included as per itinerary for the entire duration of your stay in Bhutan

  • Country Entry Visas

    Visa Fee is included in the price. We will also process your visa and send you the approved e-visa letter within 3-4 business days.

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Round trip airport transfers included in the price

  • Fully Guided

    Experienced English speaking licensed tour guide included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation at 3star hotels mentioned in the itinerary or similar. We will arrange hotels that are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.

  • Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

    All hotel accommodations have wi-fi internet connections.

  • Extra experience like traditional archery and dart throwing.

  • 1 bottle of Mineral Water per person per day

    Bottled mineral water in the car

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping is not mandatory.

    However, if you feel satisfied about the services we offer and guides and driver were up to your mark, you may tip them.

  • International Travel

    International flights are not included.

    There are only two airlines (Drukair & Bhutan Airlines) operating in and out of Bhutan and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season.

    Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore.

    We recommend you to book a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March - May and September - November.

    If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.

  • Drinks with Meals

    All drinks not included except bottled mineral water in the car

  • Any other expenditures of personal nature

  • Entry Fees

    All entry fees to the museum, monuments and sacred sites are not included

Check out our Q&As

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Flights are not included in the price. There are only two airlines (Drukair & Bhutan Airlines) operating in and out of Bhutan and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season. Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. We recommend you to book a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March - May and September - November. If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    Yes

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Except for the holders of Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders, all other nationals are required to have a visa to enter Bhutan in advance.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    You will have some leisure time during the tour but you must follow the time schedule set by the guide. At the end of the day, you can explore the places on your own in consultation with the guide.

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Tipping is optional but you may tip your guide and the driver if you feel that they met your expectations. Our guides and drivers will ensures you get the best experience!

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been in the business since the beginning of 2016.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Visitors are required to provide a COVID vaccine certificate and negative PCR test taken not more than 72 hours before the date of entry. Facemasks are mandatory at all places. Our guides and drivers will maintain a high degree of COVID-19 safety protocols. Vehicles are regularly sanitized.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, you may not join the tour that has already departed. In case you have booked that particular tour, you may join but you will not receive any refund for the portion you have missed. You also have to pay the airport pickup charges because separate transport has to be arranged.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All of our hotels are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and are regularly inspected by the authority for health and COVID-19 safety regulations.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can always change the date of the confirmed booking. We highly recommend you let us know a few months before the original date of arrival to ensure the flights and hotels are available on the new dates especially during the high season. A trip once booked can be postponed to any future date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You'll receive a copy of your BHUTAN e-Visa and an outline of the itinerary with the list of hotels where you will stay before you travel. We always let our guests know in advance the hotels they will stay in. No surprises and disappointments! If you are coming for a trekking adventure, we will send you a suggested packing list.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

GrandTour37380999491  

Trip of a lifetime

15-Feb-2020

I did a private eight-day cultural tour with a two-day Bumdrak trek. The food and resorts included in the package were exquisite, as were the women I traveled with, Llamo and Dawa. Words can't describe what being in Bhutan did for my soul. It was an unforgettable, magical experience I often dream about day and night. Those mountains, all the rice wine and karaoke and dancing in the mountains, laughing as we ran up and down them amidst vibrant flowers. I've really never felt so alive, and I often think about returning. Highly recommend Bumdrak for the adventurous and physically fit, as well as Tiger's Nest, which is well worth all the hype. Watch out for those green chilies and cheese - incredibly hot and addictive! Was a little worried about leeches and the weather based on some stories on the internet, but quickly learned after arriving that leeches are only found in certain parts of Bhutan we weren't visiting, and all weather in Bhutan is gonna lead to good times, especially with company like Llamo and Dawa. :)

Anita Pyclik  

Amazing to say the least

02-Mar-2020

Such a fantastic, informative and genuine company! Everyone from the owner to the guides all the way to the driver taught my mom and I so much about Bhutan and it’s beautiful culture and customs. Our only regret is that we did not spend enough time in...

Poland
Azur Peraz  

Memorable trip to Bhutan

08-Feb-2020

I really have a nice and memorable trip to Bhutan. Mr. Karma of Bhutan Acorn Tours is very helpful in arranging my trip to Bhutan as well as when I have a problem with the rebooking of my flights. He responds fast to all my inquiries about the tour and always checks if everything is fine during the trip. I can say that I really have fun and enjoyed the tour very much as the tour guide, Jigme, and Karma, the driver, were really funny and nice to talk with. Both were accommodating with all of my questions esp. with things related to Bhutan as well as the good areas and view points to take photographs. I was never bored throughout the trip. Jigme is very knowledgeable with all the places I visited. He is so very helpful and accommodating esp. during our 6-hr roundtrip hike to the Tiger’s Nest. Though exhausting, the visit to Paro Takstang/Tiger’s Nest was really the highlight of the whole trip. Bhutanese food and drinks are interesting to try; and the hotel accommodations during the trip are very good. Hotel staffs on two hotels I stayed were very nice and friendly. The meals and accommodation are all worth it. Airport transfers were also good and on time. Jigme and Karma really find a way for me to enjoy the beauty, the culture and good memories of Bhutan. Planning to come back to Bhutan again in the future. The country is very clean; and the culture and the environment is well-preserved. This trip with Bhutan Acorn Tours is highly recommended.

Shanghai, China
Alice O  

Amazing trip from Phuentsholing to Thimphu

31-Aug-2019

We traveled from India and flied out from Paro and spent a few days in Thimphu during the last week of February this year. The border town of Phuentsholing was bustling with merchants coming and going between India and Bhutan, but once we left the city to Thimphu, the road was amazing, passing through high mountains and clean and clear air. The hotel we stayed in Thimphu was clean and conveniently located in the center, near the bank and post office. Staff was polite and attentive. Despite the fear that dogs might bark at night, it was quiet and evening was pleasant after long walks in town during the day. We were busy visiting temples and souvenir shopping most of the time in Thimphu. We just briefly passed by the city of Paro, before our departure. Next time, I would like to spend more time and explore the green valley of Paro and historical sites. My family really enjoyed the whole trip which was well arranged from the beginning. The agent was kind enough to accommodate some changes to the itinerary so that we can try a different taste of Bhutan. What impressed me most was the nature, just how green the country is, hospitality and very unique culture, starting from the architecture to how city is organized. We forgot how fast time flew while walking around different places!

Bangkok, Thailand

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel allows you to make 3 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bhutan acorn tours & travel, 30 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel requires a minimum deposit of 50% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bhutan acorn tours & travel charges.

    Up to 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 0% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.