Short Bhutan Tour (4 Nights / 5 Days)

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Experience the best of Bhutan in just 4 nights and 5 days with our beautifully crafted short tour package. Explore the vibrant capital Thimphu, visit the historic Punakha Dzong, and soak in the serene beauty of Paro. Highlights include the scenic Dochu La Pass, spiritual visits to ancient monasteries like Chimi Lhakhang and Kyichu Lhakhang, and the unforgettable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this journey offers a rich blend of culture, nature, and spiritual charm—ideal for a first-time visit to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Trip Facts
Country
Bhutan
Duration
5 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Max. Altitude
3120 meters
Starts
Paro
Ends
Paro
Activities
Tour
Accomodation
Hotels
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Best Time
Spring & Autumn

Highlights of 4 Nights and 5 Days Short Bhutan Tour

  • Explore Bhutan’s vibrant capital, Thimphu, including visits to Buddha Point, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong.
  • Scenic drive through Darchu La Pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong and the sacred Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
  • Discover Paro’s historical gems: Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and Ta Dzong (National Museum).
  • Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched dramatically on a cliffside.
  • Comfortable hotel stays with Bhutanese hospitality and delicious local cuisine.

Short Bhutan Tour (4 Nights / 5 Days)

The Short Bhutan Tour of 4-night, 5-day Bhutan is the perfect introduction to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, combining cultural exploration, scenic drives, and spiritual experiences. Starting from Paro, you’ll travel to Thimphu, the vibrant capital city, where you'll visit landmarks like the Buddha Dordenma Statue, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong. The journey continues through the stunning Darchu La Pass, offering panoramic Himalayan views, before arriving in Punakha to explore its majestic dzong and the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Temple.

In Paro, discover ancient sites like Rinpung Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang before taking on the memorable hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), one of Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual sites. With all transportation, accommodations, meals, permits, and guided sightseeing included, this package ensures a seamless and enriching Bhutan experience for travelers short on time but eager for discovery.

Outline Itinerary

Itinerary
Day 01:Arrive at Paro - Drive to Thimphu (2400m)
Max Altitude
2,400m / 7,874ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 02:Thimphu – Punakha (1242 m)
Max Altitude
1,242m / 4,074ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 03:Punakha – Paro (2200 m)
Max Altitude
2,200m / 7,217ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 04:Paro Sightseeing
Max Altitude
3,120m / 10,236ft
Walking/Hiking
Drive
Itinerary
Day 05:Departure from Paro
Max Altitude
-
Walking/Hiking
-

Short Bhutan Tour (4 Nights / 5 Days) Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary can be customized according to your duration of holiday. Similarly hotel can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your requirement.

Starts: Paro
Ends: Paro

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu, the journey offers fascinating views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift, as you disembark from the aircraft will be cool, clean fresh mountain air. After immigration formalities and baggage collection, you will be met by our representative, and afterwards drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan with enroute stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers. Three different style of stupas; Tibetan, Nepalese and Bhutanese adorn this confluence. Shortly before reaching Chuzom, you will see on your left Tschogang Lhakhang, “the temple of the excellent horse”. It is a private temple, built in 15th century, as the result of visitation from Balaha, the excellent horse, a manifestation of Chenrezig, the compassionate Buddha.

On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. With the population of about 90,000 it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light.

Evening an exploratory walk around Thimphu Main Street and market area. Also visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, interesting items made from local materials. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2400m).

After breakfast at hotel, Drive to Punakha across Dochula pass (3080 m). In Bhutan, the passes are marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and prayer flag. Dochula pass offers the most spectacular view over the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day.

After checking into hotel, proceed to visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body.

Later in the day excursion to Chimi Lhakhang (from hotel it is about 15 minutes’ drive till motorable road and then walk starts through paddy fields and villages. This is total about 1½ hour walk, including both way). The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers

Evening can be spent exploring Punakha village located right on the bank of river. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Begin your day in the hotel's charming atmosphere with a sincere breakfast. You are going to drive to Paro and visit a beautiful Chorten today. You will be picked up by your tour guide at the hotel and driven to Khamsum Yalley Namgyal Chorten. It takes a little stroll through a crop field to get to the chorten. Paddy or mustard crops cover the fields depending on the season. Once you arrive, the setting offers an enthralling vista. With a view of the Mo Chuu River, this chorten is perched on a hill. Once you've finished your exploration, get back to your car and begin the trip to Paro. About 130 kilometers separate Khamsum Chorten from Paro, and it takes about 4 hours to go that distance.

Visit Rinpung Dzong to view some of the best examples of traditional Bhutanese art as well as other notable forms. The first landmark you notice when you arrive in Bhutan is the Paro Dzong, as it is also called. The Ta Dzong (National Museum) is the next destination. The edifice has a distinctive design, and inside is a magnificent collection of over 3000 centuries-old Bhutanese artworks. Bhutan's artistic heritage may teach one about its past. You will visit Kyichu Lhakhang to conclude your journey for the day. It's one of the most well-known temples in Bhutan. In all of Bhutan, it is regarded as one of the most exquisite and ancient temples. Older individuals are seen doing a ritualistic walk around the shrine. There are a few visible mountains in addition to the beautiful, green valley that can be seen from this serene location.

Drive to your hotel after the tour and end of the day. Savor the most exquisite and cozy setting in addition to the hotel's outstanding service. Overnight in Paro.

After breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place and visited by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour.

Afternoon drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, "mountain of goddess'' can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong. Overnight in Paro.

After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination. Our representative will help you with exit formalities and then bid you farewell.

Altitude Chart

Unit:

Short Bhutan Tour (4 Nights / 5 Days): Cost Details

Includes

  • Airport pickup & drop
  • Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) USD 100 per person per night
  • 4 nights in 3 star hotels as per the itinerary in twin/ double sharing basis 
  • Breakfast and Dinner in the hotel
  • Lunch will be served in the local tourist standard restaurant.
  • English speaking Tour guide during the tour 
  • Private vehicle during the tour as per the itinerary 
  • Bhutan Visa Fees
  • Mineral water in the car during the tour. 
  • All monuments and entrance fees mentioend in the program
  • All necessary government taxes and fees

Excludes

  • Airfare (KTM - Paro - KTM)
  • Personal equipment
  • Personal and medical insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses (Laundry services, Telephone call, Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic drinks, hot stone Bath.
  • Bar bills and drinks (mineral water, soft drink, beers, etc.)
  • Unforeseen expenses caused by uncontrollable circumstances such as flight cancellations or delays, blocked roads, weather conditions, natural disasters, altitude sickness, early termination or return of the program, etc.
  • Tips
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in INCLUDED

Dates & Availability

Our online briefing is designed to answer all your questions about the trek. We’ll go over the gear you’ll need (equipment checklist), provide a detailed itinerary, and explain what you can expect on the trail. After you book your trip, we’ll send you an email with available briefing dates and times. Once we receive your required documents, we’ll schedule and conduct the online trek briefing.

Essential Information

When is the best season for Short Bhutan Tour?

The best season for a short Bhutan trek is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally clear and mild, offering stunning mountain views, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant rhododendron blooms in spring. Autumn brings crisp air and colorful festivals,

What will be the accommodation during short Bhutan tour?

During the short Bhutan tour, accommodation is typically provided in comfortable 3-star hotels or charming boutique lodges that blend modern amenities with traditional Bhutanese architecture. These hotels offer clean rooms, cozy beds, and warm hospitality, ensuring a relaxing stay after your days of sightseeing and trekking. In cities like Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro, you’ll find well-maintained hotels with facilities such as Wi-Fi, hot showers, and on-site dining featuring both local and international cuisine. For travelers seeking a more luxurious experience, upgrades to 4-star or 5 star heritage hotels can often be arranged.

What will be the meals during Bhutan tour?

During the Bhutan tour, meals typically include a mix of traditional Bhutanese cuisine and international dishes to suit diverse tastes. Breakfast is usually served at the hotel and features options like eggs, toast, porridge, and fresh fruit. Lunch and dinner often include Bhutanese specialties such as Ema Datshi (chili cheese stew), Shakam Paa (dried beef with red chili), steamed rice, and locally grown vegetables. Many hotels and restaurants also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options upon request. Meals are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, providing a delicious taste of Bhutan’s culinary heritage while ensuring travelers have enough energy for their daily activities. Breakfast and Dinner are provided in the hotel you will be staying and Lunch will be provided in restaurants as it will be in the middle of the tour. 

Short Bhutan Tour (4 Nights / 5 Days) FAQs

Yes, all foreign nationals (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) need a visa to enter Bhutan. Your tour operator will arrange the visa for you once your trip is confirmed.

Yes, all foreign travelers (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must obtain a Bhutan visa in advance. Visas are arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or their partner agency, and are only issued after the tour is booked and paid for.

The two main entry points are:

  • By Air: Through Paro International Airport from cities like Kathmandu, Delhi, Bangkok, and Singapore.
  • By Road: Via land border crossings such as Phuentsholing (from India).

As per Bhutan’s tourism policy, travelers must pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person. This contributes to Bhutan’s development and environmental preservation.

Travelers stay in government-approved 3-star hotels, offering clean rooms, attached bathrooms, hot showers, traditional meals, and warm Bhutanese hospitality. Luxury or boutique hotel upgrades are available upon request.

No. All foreign tourists (except from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives) must travel on a pre-arranged, guided package tour organized by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.

The best seasons for cultural tours are:

  • Spring (March to May): Rhododendrons in bloom and pleasant weather
  • Autumn (September to November): Clear skies and major festivals like Thimphu Tshechu
  • Winter and summer visits are also possible with fewer crowds.

Yes, Bhutan is known for its vibrant Buddhist festivals or Tshechus, such as:

  • Paro Tshechu (March/April)
  • Thimphu Tshechu (September/October)

These festivals are filled with masked dances, rituals, and community celebrations.

The local currency is the Ngultrum (BTN), pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). Indian Rupees are accepted in Bhutan. Major hotels accept credit cards, but cash is recommended in remote areas.

Yes, Bhutan is one of the safest travel destinations in the world. Crime is extremely low, and the people are welcoming and respectful. Still, standard travel precautions are advised.

Bhutanese cuisine is simple, hearty, and often spicy. Common dishes include:

  • Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew)
  • Red rice, dumplings (momos), lentils, and stir-fried vegetables

Vegetarian options are widely available. Meals are generally served buffet-style at hotels and lodges.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all visitors. It should cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and accidents during trekking or tours.

Absolutely. Bhutan is easily accessible from both Kathmandu (Nepal) and Delhi/Kolkata (India), making it ideal for multi-country Himalayan itineraries.

Dress modestly and respectfully. Include:

  • Layered clothing (temperature can vary)
  • A light jacket or fleece
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A scarf or shawl for temple visits

During winter or treks, pack thermal wear, gloves, and a warm hat.

Yes. Bhutan is a deeply spiritual country. Please:

  • Remove shoes before entering temples
  • Dress conservatively
  • Avoid pointing at people or sacred objects
  • Ask before photographing people or monks

The flight from Kathmandu (Nepal) to Paro (Bhutan) takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Despite its short duration, it’s considered one of the most scenic and thrilling flights in the world.

On a clear day, passengers are treated to breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and even Kanchenjunga. The final approach into Paro Valley is especially exciting, as the plane descends through narrow mountain ridges before landing at one of the world’s most challenging airports.

Only a few skilled pilots are certified to land at Paro, making the journey both safe and unforgettable.

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