Based on 746 reviews
Bhutan Short Tour
Experience the Land of the Thunder Dragon
Duration
4 Days
Meals
- 3 Breakfast
- 3 Lunch
- 3 Dinner
Accommodation
Paro – Mandala Resort
Thimphu – Hotel Pedling
Activities
- Sightseeing
- Trekking
- Scenic Drive/Flight
SAVE
US$ 196Price Starts From
US$ 980
Overview of Bhutan Short Tour
Tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan has gradually begun to welcome visitors after centuries of intentional isolation, making it a prime destination for those craving a unique journey, such as a 4-day Bhutan Short Tour. The country’s harmonious blend of its natural environment and local communities has created a distinct character heavily rooted in rich cultural and religious traditions.
With a population of roughly 700,000 and a land area similar to Switzerland, Bhutan is unique as the only nation where Mahayana Buddhism is the predominant religion. This deep commitment to Buddhist values, emphasizing compassion for all living things, has helped preserve its unspoiled landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Having never been colonized and maintaining only limited engagement with the outside world, Bhutan has maintained a unique and independent identity over the centuries.
Trip Highlights
- Arrive at Paro International Airport: Enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan views as you descend.
- Drive Scenically to Thimphu: Take in the tranquil landscapes and traditional Bhutanese architecture along the way.
- Sightseeing in Thimphu: Visit the National Memorial Chorten and marvel at the majestic Buddha Dordenma Statue.
- Head Back to Paro: Explore the rich history of Bhutan at the National Museum and Paro Dzong.
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery: On a spiritual journey, climb the iconic Tiger’s Nest, perched atop a cliff.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang: Experience one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.
- Immerse in the Culture: Dive into the local lifestyle, taste the cuisine, and explore vibrant markets in Thimphu and Paro.
In the 8th century, Padmasambhava, also revered as Guru Rinpoche in the Tantric Buddhist tradition, brought Buddhism to Bhutan, laying the spiritual foundation that still influences the country today. The arrival of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1616 was another turning point for Bhutan, as this key figure in the Drukpa school of Mahayana Buddhism unified the nation and established its early systems of governance and identity.
A significant milestone occurred in 1907 when the clergy, government leaders, and the Bhutanese public collectively chose Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck as the first king, giving rise to the esteemed Wangchuck dynasty. In 2006, the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, made a groundbreaking decision to transition Bhutan to a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy, voluntarily stepping down to enable this shift.
Bhutan’s first democratic elections took place in 2008, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the monarchy. That same year, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was crowned as the fifth king, ushering in a new era that combined modern governance with preserving Bhutan’s cultural richness and natural splendor.
Detail Itinerary of Bhutan Short Tour
Day 01: Arrival in Paro (Altitude: 2,280m) and Transfer to Thimphu (Altitude: 2,320m, Distance: 55 Kms, Duration: 1½ Hrs Drive)
Flying into Paro offers one of the most spectacular aerial views in the Himalayas, particularly on the flight from Kathmandu, which traces the Himalayan range, offering stunning landscapes and an exhilarating entry into the kingdom. Bhutan welcomes you with its crisp, clean, fresh mountain air when you disembark from the plane.
Our representative will greet you at the immigration desk, take your bags, and drive you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. En route, you will stop at Chuzom, the meeting point of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.
Adorned with three styles of stupas — Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutanese — this confluence also features the Tachogang Lhakhang, or “temple of the excellent horse,” on your left before you reach Chuzom. A 15th-century private temple, it commemorates the visit of Balaha, the excellent horse, a manifestation of Chenrezig, the Buddha of compassion.
When you arrive in Thimphu, please check in at your hotel. Serving as the center for the Bhutanese government, religion, and commerce, Thimphu uniquely combines modern development with ancient traditions. Its population of about 90,000 people makes it likely the only capital city globally without traffic lights.
Spend the evening wandering through Thimphu’s main streets and market area. Consider visiting the Local Crafts Bazaar to experience Bhutan’s rich traditional arts. Here, a diverse array of merchandise awaits your discovery, featuring locally crafted hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry, and other artisanal creations.
Enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel in Thimphu (Altitude: 2,400 meters)
Accommodation: Hotel Pedling or a similar 3-star hotel
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 02: Explore Thimphu and Return to Paro (Return Distance: 110 Kms, Duration: 3 Hrs Drive Round Trip)
Start this day of the Bhutan Short Tour with breakfast and then proceed to explore the Thimphu Valley, which includes stops at notable sites such as Kuensel Phodrang, also known as Buddha Point. A brief drive from Thimphu’s center takes you to Buddha Point, where a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley unfolds.
At this location, visitors have the opportunity to offer their prayers in front of the nation’s largest Buddha statue and enjoy a scenic walk overlooking the valley.
Constantly encircling the King’s Memorial Chorten are people who spin prayer wheels and recite mantras.
As a memorial to world peace and prosperity, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan and dubbed “the father of modern Bhutan,” began construction on this landmark tower. Completed in 1974 following his untimely demise, it honors the Late King and represents harmony.
Post lunch, the itinerary leads to Ta Dzong, which has transitioned from a watchtower to the National Museum. The museum’s broad collection features ancient Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household artifacts, and a wide array of natural and historical pieces.
Immediately after the Ta Dzong visit, a short walk downhill takes you to Rinpung Dzong, or Paro Dzong, known as the “fortress of the heap of jewels.” This fortress carries a compelling history.
Vibrant wall paintings inside the wooden galleries showcase Buddhist stories, including the wheel of life, the story of the four friends, the older man with a long life, scenes from Milarepa’s life, Mount Sumeru, and numerous cosmic Mandalas.
After a long day, spend the night at a Paro hotel.
Accommodation: Mandala Resort or a similar 3-star Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 03: Paro - Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) (Hiking Distance: 4-5 Kms One Way, Duration: 4-6 Hrs Round Trip)
Start your day with breakfast and then trek to the Taktsang Monastery, also famous as the Tiger’s Nest (around a 5-hour hike). Sitting 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery ranks as one of Bhutan’s most iconic. It is celebrated for the myth of Guru Rinpoche’s arrival on a tigress’s back for meditation, thus earning its nickname, ‘Tiger’s Nest.’
Recognized as a highly holy site, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited it in 1646, making it a must-visit pilgrimage for every Bhutanese at least once in their lives. A fire severely damaged it on April 19, 1998, but meticulous restoration efforts have brought it back to its original magnificence.
Later in the afternoon, you can visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, a fortress that stood firm against Tibetan invasions centuries ago. The approach road offers a stunning view of Chomolhari, the “mountain of the goddess,” in all its grandeur.
Discover the 108 temples Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo erected across the Himalayas to honor the spread of Buddhism to Bhutan. Among them is the Kyichu Lhakhang, constructed in the seventh century.
Spend the evening in a Paro hotel.
Accommodation: Mandala Resort or a similar 3-star Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Departure from Paro
Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before the drive to the airport for your onward flight. A representative will ensure a smooth check-out process and say goodbye as you leave.
Meals: Breakfast
Customize this trip with help from our local travel specialist that matches your interests.
Includes & Excludes
What is included?
- Hotel stays according to the itinerary
- Entrance fees for sightseeing
- Private transportation provided
- Local English-speaking tour guide throughout the trip
- Bhutan visa fee and sightseeing entrance fees
- Relevant taxes included
What is excluded?
- International flight costs
- Personal expenses such as bar tabs, laundry, phone calls, and internet
- Any type of insurance
- Tips for the guide and driver
Departure Dates
We also operate Private Trips.
Good To Know
Bhutan spans a land area of 38,394 square kilometers, with an impressive 72.5% of that space covered in forests. The country’s altitude varies significantly, ranging from 240 meters to a towering 7,541 meters above sea level. Home to approximately 700,000 people, the official language is Dzongkha, though English is widely spoken. Bhutan practices Vajrayana Buddhism, a form of Mahayana Buddhism also known as Tantric Buddhism. The national currency is the Ngultrum, which equals the Indian Rupee. Thimphu’s capital city is the heart of Bhutan’s cultural and political activities. Symbolically, Bhutan’s national tree is the cypress, while the raven holds the title of the national bird, and the blue poppy is celebrated as the national flower. Archery is the country’s national sport, reflecting its deep-rooted traditions, and the takin is revered as the national animal. The local time is set six hours ahead of GMT and 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time.
The official currency in Bhutan is the Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged at par with the Indian Rupee and holds the same value. While ATMs are available in major towns and cities, carrying USD cash is convenient, especially when planning for personal expenses and shopping in more remote areas where ATM access may be limited. USD can be exchanged at banks and authorized exchange counters, making it a reliable option for tourists looking to ensure they have sufficient funds during their visit. Carrying USD also helps when card transactions are not widely accepted.
In Bhutan, electrical outlets typically supply 230V at 50Hz and use plug types D, F, and G. While some modern hotels might have multiple socket types, it’s not guaranteed, so travelers are advised to carry a universal adapter. This ensures your devices remain charged and ready, regardless of the type of outlet available. A universal adapter is particularly useful if you have electronic items that need regular recharging, like smartphones, laptops, or cameras, as it can accommodate various plug shapes and voltage differences. This small investment can make your trip more convenient and hassle-free, saving you from scrambling to find the right adapter once you arrive.
The Bhutan visa is included in this package, making the process simpler for travelers. To facilitate the visa application, providing a clear scanned copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo at least 15 days before your tour departure date is important. This advance submission ensures enough time to process your visa and avoid any last-minute complications. By preparing these documents, you can look forward to a smooth start to your Bhutan Short Tour.
Trip Information
Best Seasons for a 4 Day Bhutan Short Tour
Spring (March to May): As nature awakens, Bhutan’s spring ushers in a natural spectacle, making it an ideal time for a 4 Days Bhutan Short Tour. Wildflowers, especially the famous rhododendrons, blanket the valleys in vibrant colors. Warm days and cool nights create perfect conditions for trekking to landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery under clear skies. Additionally, this season brings several vibrant festivals to life, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions.
Autumn (September to November): Bhutan’s autumn, refreshed by monsoon rains, presents clear skies and breathtaking Himalayan views, marking another perfect season for a visit. The mild weather facilitates outdoor exploration and cultural sightseeing. Significant Bhutanese festivals, including the Thimphu Tshechu, fill this period with traditional dances, music, and colorful costumes, enriching the travel experience.
Winter (December to February): Despite the cold, winter in Bhutan holds its unique allure for a Bhutan Short Tour. Spectacular snow-capped mountains and less crowded tourist spots offer a peaceful retreat. It’s a prime season for bird watching and enjoying hot springs, although travelers should stay prepared for the cold and possible travel disruptions due to snow.
Summer (June to August): The monsoon defines Bhutan’s summer, potentially complicating travel with rain and landslides. Yet, the lush, green landscape and majestic waterfalls, along with less crowded settings, create a perfect backdrop for those seeking solitude and nature’s vibrancy. Affordable hotel rates and the chance to experience local festivals add to the summer appeal.
Travel Insurance
We highly recommend obtaining travel insurance for the Bhutan Short Tour for four days to provide peace of mind throughout your travels. This insurance generally protects against unexpected events, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and other unforeseen incidents.
The tour’s varied activities and visits to remote locations make comprehensive insurance crucial, allowing travelers to fully immerse in Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage without concerns, secure in the knowledge that they have protection against any unpredictable occurrences.
Permits and Regulations
Travelers planning a Bhutan Short Tour must secure the necessary permits, which is a crucial step in their travel preparations. Bhutan enforces a distinctive “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy to safeguard its culture and environment. All tourists, with the exception of citizens from India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, need to secure a visa prior to their arrival.
Registered Bhutanese tour operators typically manage this process, arranging everything from visas to itineraries for travelers. Furthermore, tourists must meet a daily minimum spending requirement that includes costs for accommodation, food, transportation, and a licensed guide, ensuring adherence to sustainable travel standards.
Tourists must also have a licensed Bhutanese guide accompany them at all times to comply with local customs and regulations. This requirement not only enriches the travel experience with deep insights and expert guidance but also supports Bhutan’s sustainable tourism management efforts. For treks in specific regions, tourists need special permits, which their tour operator will secure. Respecting these regulations is crucial for protecting Bhutan’s natural and cultural treasures.
Transportation Arrangements
Throughout the 4 Days Bhutan Short Tour, Peregrine Treks and Tours meticulously organize transportation to ensure smooth and comfortable travel throughout the nation. When you arrive at Paro International Airport, we facilitate all hotel transfers and excursions to Thimphu, Paro, and any additional itinerary sites in modern, well-kept vehicles operated by experienced, knowledgeable drivers. This comprehensive transportation service includes scenic drives across Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, transforming each journey into a memorable part of the touring experience, just as significant as the destinations themselves.
Health and Safety Precautions
For the 4-Day Bhutan Tour, prioritizing health and safety ensures guests enjoy a seamless travel experience. We implement comprehensive measures, including the regular sanitization of vehicles and accommodations and strict adherence to local health guidelines. Our team ensures every dining venue upholds the highest hygiene standards.
We also encourage travelers to uphold personal hygiene, practice social distancing as needed, and wear masks in crowded areas. Our tour guides and staff, proficient in health protocols, stand ready to offer support and advice on maintaining health throughout the tour. These measures aim to safeguard both the travelers and the communities we visit, contributing to a secure and pleasurable trip.
Guide Services
During the 4-Day Bhutan Short Tour, professional, English-fluent guides with deep knowledge of Bhutanese culture, history, and traditions enhance guests’ experiences. By providing insightful commentary and sharing stories, these guides bring ancient temples, majestic landscapes, and vibrant festivals vividly to life.
They handle the tour’s logistical aspects, ensuring seamless access to all sites and fostering meaningful interactions with local communities. The personalized attention these guides offer guarantees that travelers develop a profound understanding and appreciation of Bhutan, transforming every moment of the journey into an educational, enjoyable, and memorable adventure.
Communication and Connectivity
During the 4-Day Bhutan Short Tour, guests find it easy to stay connected, even in the country’s most remote areas. Major towns and tourist spots, such as Thimphu and Paro, boast reliable mobile network coverage, facilitating effortless communication and experience-sharing for visitors.
Travelers will discover that most hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, enabling them to keep in touch with loved ones or attend to online tasks. Additionally, buying a local SIM card upon arrival is a smart move for those needing widespread cellular service during their journey. This approach guarantees seamless communication and connectivity for guests, significantly enhancing their Bhutan travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) rank as the ideal seasons for visiting Bhutan. These seasons provide pleasant weather and clear skies for optimal Himalayan views and coincide with numerous vibrant festivals, enriching the cultural experience for visitors.
You can extend a 4-day tour, and discussing this possibility with your tour operator in advance is recommended. They can customize your itinerary to cover additional attractions, treks, or cultural experiences tailored to your interests and available time.
The tour typically includes stays in 3-star hotels or resorts known for their comfortable amenities, quality service, and locations that offer a glimpse into the hospitality and culture of Bhutan.
Visitors must dress modestly at religious sites, removing hats and shoes before entry and wearing long pants and sleeves to respect Bhutanese culture and traditions.
All visitors, except for India, Bangladesh, and Maldives citizens, must secure a visa before entry. Peregrine Treks and Tours manages the visa process, requiring a completed application, passport details, and full trip payment, including the daily minimum fee.
Respecting Bhutanese culture involves using gentle language, avoiding physical contact like hugging, and using both hands to give or receive items, reflecting the local values of respect and modesty.
Consulting healthcare providers for vaccinations and precautions is advised due to Bhutan’s high altitude. Acclimatizing, staying hydrated, and having travel insurance for medical emergencies are recommended health precautions.
Reviews on Bhutan Short Tour
5.0
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