This trip of 5 days through Bhutan and its valleys will surely be a magical experience of Bhutan, which will be hard to forget. If you choose to go on this trip, you will be able to discover the cultural and beautiful places of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
Walking through the calm valleys and exploring the massive fortresses and ancient monasteries, you have the opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of Bhutan little by little. Each day, from the famous hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro to the grand Punakha Dzong and the visit to the vibrant streets of Thimphu, there will be something new for you to explore. No matter if you are interested in nature, culture, or local life, within five days, you are going to get the best of Bhutan.
In only five days, you will be able to visit the most beautiful places of Bhutan - hiking to the renowned Tiger's Nest, admiring the mountains from Dochula Pass, visiting ancient castles, and experiencing the calm and rustic lifestyle that makes this country amazing.
In Thimphu, you will be visiting the most unique places in the city. The giant Buddha Dordenma is among the first places to visit, located at the top of a hill. You will have the chance to see Tashichho Dzong, which is a beautiful fortress that combines a government building with a monastery. This structure is a great representation of the architecture of Bhutan.
If you stroll through the local market, you will observe people's lifestyle, shops, and the local products being sold by them. This is a wonderful way to get familiarized with the capital city of Bhutan.
When you travel between Thimphu and Punakha, you will get to pass through Dochula Pass, a place that is both serene and mighty at the same time. The 108 white chortens, aligned perfectly, are a very peaceful place to be, and they make you feel relaxed and absorb the whole thing. On days when the sky is clear, nothing is more beautiful than the amazing glimpses of the Himalayas. A trip to this place is almost like taking in the fresh air, hearing the soft sounds of prayer flags, and an experience that is not easily forgettable. Surely, it is not just a stop; it is something to live through.
The adventure to the Tiger's Nest is what most people remember as the best part of their journey. The Tiger's Nest Monastery, suspended above Paro Valley, is truly a spectacular view, and getting there is quite an adventure as well. On your way to the monastery, you will find the path of the most beautiful nature. It leads you up the mountain among tall pines and colorful prayer flags. The area is very spiritual and tranquil, and the views are superb. The hike is quite tough, though the reward is worth it at every point. The time you reach there, it is not just a hike but a trip, that’s what one feels.
In Bhutan, wherever you go, you will feel the people's deep connection with their customs and culture. Even the smallest things, like the clothes that they wear and how they greet you, have a unique kind of friendliness and truthfulness that you cannot really put into words. Buddhism is the major religion followed in the country, and it is very clear from the peacefulness of the people's lives. Prayer flags, prayer wheels, and temples are part of the landscape. But what is it really that makes it special is the friendly nature of the people. You can easily find yourself feeling at home, it’s almost like being with friends, though you might be far away. It is the kind of memory that you will carry around with you.
If you have the desire to find out the beauty and culture of Bhutan in a brief period, the Bhutan 5 Days Tour would be the perfect option for you. This tour is carefully designed to enjoy the main highlights of three Important cities of Bhutan, i.e., Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Besides seeing the breathtaking mountains and valleys, you will also be able to visit the old temples and dzongs and get familiarized with Bhutan's unique way of living. Bounded by the calmness, the warmth of the people, and the richness of the traditions, there is no doubt that Bhutan is a lovely escape from the stressful world. This tour gives you the opportunity to see everything-nature, history, and culture-without being hurried, which is just right for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
A 5-day tour around Bhutan is a perfect combination with which you can enjoy the nature, the culture, and the calmness of the country. Each day from your arrival in Paro to the last one will be full of new and wonderful experiences for you. You will be walking in a serene and peaceful valley, visiting ancient monasteries, and witnessing the kindness of the Bhutanese people in their everyday life. Tiger's Nest hike, panoramic views from Dochula Pass, and peace of Punakha will be among the lovely memories that you will be keeping for a long time. Though it is a short tour, it leaves you with a lot of memorable moments and the true flavor of Bhutan's spirit. It's not just another vacation - it's a calming escape that rejuvenates your mind and soul. The feeling of being stimulated, relaxed, and having a warm connection with the beautiful country is what you will take with you after your departure.
Arrive at Paro Airport, scenic drive to Thimphu and evening leisure stroll
Explore Thimphu highlights, visit Buddha Dordenma and drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang, enjoy valley views, and transfer to Paro
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, visit Kyichu Lhakhang and shop local crafts in Paro
Relaxed morning, final glimpses of Bhutan’s landscapes and depart from Paro Airport
When you arrive at Paro Airport, our company members will be there to welcome you and help you carry your luggage. After all the required formalities have been completed, you will drive to Thimphu, which is the capital of Bhutan. It is between 1.5 to 2 hours by road from there. Apart from the spectacular views of the Himalayas, the drive also takes you through the unique and traditional villages with the terraced fields, thus giving you an excellent visual of the nature and culture of the country. After you visit Thimphu and check into your hotel, you will definitely have time to relax from your long trip. You might do a city stroll depending on your arrival. The rest of the day is at your leisure, where you can recover from the trip and get ready for the wonderful itinerary ahead. The next day, you will go on a journey of discovery, and you will be staying overnight in Thimphu.
After having breakfast, you will be led on a tour of Thimphu, the lively capital of Bhutan. You can visit the Buddha Dordenma statue that provides you with a wonderful view of the valley, the Tashichho Dzong, a very beautiful fortress and monastery. The National Memorial Chorten and local markets are two places you can visit to get a glimpse of Bhutanese culture by yourself.
In the afternoon, you are going to drive to Punakha, which is about 3 hours away from Thimphu. The incredible journey will make you pass Dochula, where you can get a magnificent sight of the Himalayas and can also catch a glimpse of the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Then, you will be taken to your hotel in Punakha to rest for a while. You will spend the night in Punakha and get ready for the tour the next day.
After a hearty breakfast, you will be visiting Punakha, which is known as the valley with Bhutan’s best view. The first stop of your visit will be at Punakha Dzong, the wonderful fortress that is located where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers meet. The fortress is the main cultural heritage of the most beautiful Bhutanese architecture.
Your next destination will be Chimi Lhakhang, which is referred to as the Fertility Temple, where a large number of visitors come to receive the blessing. The return journey to Paro will start in the afternoon. You can see natural beauties like forests, rivers, and typical villages during a drive. Once in Paro, you will check into your hotel and take some rest. This is the end of your day, marking the beginning of Paro’s famous sites to be explored tomorrow. You will be staying in Paro overnight.
On the fourth day, you will go on a hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, which is known as one of the most iconic experiences in Bhutan. After a very early breakfast, you will make your way up the hill, which will take you about 2 to 3 hours. On this trek, you can enjoy excellent views of the Paro valley and the green pine trees. When you get to the monastery, you will make a circuit around a very sacred place that is constructed on a ridge at 3,120 meters, surrounded by legends and spiritual significances.
Once you come down, you will have lunch and continue your tour in Paro town. After that, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, which is one of the ancient temples of Bhutan, and visit local markets plus handicraft shops. If you have time , you can also explore Paro Dzong or the National Museum. After a long day, you can rest at your hotel and have your last night in Bhutan.
After a nice breakfast, your guide will accompany you to Paro Airport for your flight. If your flight is a bit late, you may relax and enjoy the clean air and tranquility of the spot. See the final views of the gorgeous nature of Bhutan on your way to the airport. Your guide will complete the formalities at the airport and assist you as you part ways. Though it was a brief visit, the experiences of Bhutan’s culture, spectacular nature, and the friendly smiles of the people will be with you for a long time. We hope you have a safe and lovely trip ahead.
The best time to take a 5-day tour in Bhutan is March to May and from September to November. The weather during these months is very suitable for traveling, and the sky is clear. Spring is a great time when the valleys are filled with colourful flowers and blooming rhododendron. In autumn, the mountains are crystal clear, and some festivals that can be attended. It is a great time to go to the sacred places like Tiger's Nest and Punakha Dzong, which can be your nature and culture experience tour. Apart from that, a journey during the rainy season is certainly not recommended. To sum it up, the most stunning period to witness the miracle of Bhutan is during the spring and autumn seasons.
Yes, hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is an exclusive part of Day 4. The trek is generally 4 to 5 hours round trip. It’s a climb of moderate difficulty through the gorgeous woods, and the views of the monastery that sits on the sheer rock are stunning. There are horses for you if you so choose to take a ride for some part of the trail.
Definitely, in fact. The tour is really perfect for those who aren't familiar with Bhutan and want to see the most important things of Bhutan in a brief and easy time.
Of course, you’ll have evenings off for your own walks around the towns. You can visit local markets, grab a coffee, or just have a peaceful stroll and enjoy the atmosphere of these lovely Bhutanese towns.
Yes, of course. The 5-day tour plan is very effective for those travelers who want to see the best of Bhutan but don’t have a lot of time to spend. It has almost everything the tour of Bhutan should have at a comfortable pace that is perfect for a beginner or a short-schedule traveler.
You need a visa and all necessary permits for your trip. These documents can not be received on the day of your arrival, so they must be processed before coming here. After you book a trip with us, we will manage these papers for you. Your Bhutan visa is arranged by Orrog as part of the package.
The main way to come to Bhutan is through Paro International Airport, which is well-connected to cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Most people arrive by air, but if you plan to come via road, you can enter through Phuentsholing, located on the southern border with India, which is the most commonly used entry point.
It is recommended to apply for the visa at least 20 days before your planned departure date so that there is enough time for processing your Bhutan visa, finalizing your itinerary, and arranging your guides and transportation. Although visa processing itself is relatively fast once payment is received, early preparation helps avoid delays and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
You don’t require a passport-size photo for the visa, but it is wise to carry at least 2–4 recent passport-sized photographs during your trip. These may be needed for local permits, registration, or when applying for a local SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan.
Yes, you can lengthen your stay in Bhutan either before or after your trip. Bhutan’s tourism model requires visitors to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and a daily package cost, so any extra days will involve additional charges. Extensions are a great opportunity to explore cultural sites in Paro, Thimphu, or even add another short trip or day hike.
Yes, Bhutan requires full tour payment in advance before your visa can be processed and issued. The government of Bhutan regulates this policy to ensure that all travel arrangements are confirmed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. We are a licensed tour operator that ensures you have everything you need for a trouble-free trip.
Any personal expenses are not covered in the package like:
Credit cards are easily accepted in major cities like Paro and Thimphu. But in remote areas, you may not have access to a card or an ATM. So, it is best to carry some cash before heading for the trip.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a widely appreciated gesture and a customary way to show gratitude for good service. The tipping guideline would be to give USD 5-10 per day as a tip for the guides and other staff.
Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. It is well connected by flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.
Yes, airport pick-up and drop-off are included in the package. We will have your guide and driver meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel.
While Bhutan's roads are mostly paved, some parts are narrow, winding, and occasionally affected by weather. However, we ensure your travel is safe, well-maintained, and driven by an experienced professional throughout the journey.
Once you arrive in Paro, we will arrange private ground transportation to the starting point as we pass through lush valleys and traditional villages. So, you don’t have to worry about any transportation services.
Yes, it is very safe to travel even with children in Bhutan. Roads are well-maintained, and the pace of travel is generally relaxed and child-friendly.
We will usually travel in comfortable, private vehicles with experienced drivers. All ground transportation is included in your package.
The Bhutanese Ngultrum is used in Bhutan. All local transactions during the trip will be in BTN.
US Dollars (USD) are generally accepted at larger hotels, souvenir shops, and tour operators, particularly in Paro and Thimphu. However, it’s advisable to convert your currency to BTN for general purchases in rural areas. Other currencies like the Euro or the Pound are not commonly accepted directly.
No, credit or debit cards are not accepted on the trip, as it takes you through remote regions with no banking or electronic payment access. All trip-related payments like accommodation, meals, permits, etc, are paid in advance.
You can exchange foreign currency at the Paro International Airport, at banks, or through licensed money changers in cities like Thimphu and Paro. It's best to exchange enough cash before heading out on the trip.
The national language is Dzongkha, but many Bhutanese also speak English. If you speak English and are worried about communicating with the local people, you will have your guide as a translator.
Yes, all licensed tour guides in Bhutan are required to speak fluent English. Many are also trained in other languages such as German, Japanese, or French. Communication during the trip will be smooth and clear in English.
Most signboards, tourist maps, and information brochures are written in English, especially in tourist destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and trailheads. Directional signs along routes are often labeled in both Dzongkha and English.
No, learning Dzongkha is not at all needed for the trip, but knowing a few basic words like "Kuzu zangpo la" (Hello) or "Kadrinche la" (Thank you) is a good way to interact with the locals
Language barriers are minimal, as your guide will handle all communication with locals and support staff. Your guide will translate for you during your interaction with the locals.
To greet people, you can greet with locals “Kuzu zangpo la” (Hello) by performing a slight bow. Most common greetings include physical greetings, such as shaking hands less visible, especially in rural areas.
Yes, but remember to seek permission, especially when taking photos of monks, locals, or temples. Please note that clicking photos is not allowed at most religious sites.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. This means:
This applies to both men and women.
Yes, Bhutanese society is deeply rooted in Buddhism and tradition. Here are some key taboos:
While gifts are not expected, they may be accepted graciously if given with respect. It is advisable to consult with the guide before giving out anything.
Bhutan typically uses Type C, Type D, and Type G electrical outlets. Standard safe voltage is 230V and frequency is 50Hz; therefore, ensure that your equipment is compatible with this voltage.
Indeed, it is highly advised to take along a universal travel adapter, particularly one to fit a variety of types of plugs, because plugs can be different in a hotel or a guesthouse
Bhutan follows Bhutan Time (BTT), which is UTC/GMT +6 hours. This time zone remains consistent throughout the year.
No, Bhutan does not observe daylight saving time. The country maintains the same time year-round.
Bhutan is 30 minutes ahead of India. For example, 12:00 PM in India is 12:30 PM in Bhutan.
Yes, souvenirs can be bought in Paro or Thimphu before or after the trip.
Some popular souvenirs include hand-woven textiles (kira and gho fabric), prayer flags, thangka (religious scroll) paintings, handmade paper products, traditional masks, and Buddhist artifacts.
You can do some gentle bargaining in local street markets. However, in government-run shops and fixed-price stores, prices are usually non-negotiable.
Yes, you can easily purchase a SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan. We will assist you with the process, and you'll need a passport copy and a passport-sized photo.
No, internet access is not available during the trip. However, Wi-Fi is available in hotels in Paro and Thimphu before and after the trip.
B-Mobile (by Bhutan Telecom) and TashiCell are the two main service providers. B-Mobile tends to have better coverage in rural and mountainous areas
Since the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures can vary drastically, layered clothing is essential. You should pack:
Nighttime temperatures can be extremely cold, especially at high-altitude places. So you need to have enough clothing to keep you warm.
Yes, all tours include certified, English-speaking guides who are knowledgeable in Bhutanese history and culture.
You can learn about the Bhutanese culture through local interactions, homestay visits, cooking classes, traditional art workshops, and attending local festivals and religious ceremonies.
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.
Feel free to ask us anything about this tour. A travel expert will then get back to you as soon as possible
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.