logoimg

Thimphu Valley Hike - 4 Days

he Thimpu Valley Hike is one of the most wonderful opportunities for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and comfort seekers.You will get the remarkable chance to observe the monks' life closely, to be with them, to share not only stories but also their wisdom, and to experience the warmth of the human heart.

Country
Country
Bhutan
Duration
Duration
4 Days
Difficulty
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Maximum Altitude
Maximum Altitude
3,600 meters (Phajoding Monastery)
Best Seasons
Best Seasons
Spring and Autumn
Start Point
Start Point
Paro International Airport
Activity
Activity
Hiking, Sightseeing, Cultural Exploration, Wildlife & Nature Walks
Accommodation
Accommodation
Hotels
Meals
Meals
Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Highlights

  • Scenic Hikes to Ancient Monasteries
  • Cultural Immersion in Thimphu
  • Dochula Pass & Himalayan Views
  • Authentic Bhutanese Experiences
  • Perfect Balance of Adventure & Comfort

Trip Overview

This hike will take you to the stunning monasteries of Tango, Cheri, Wangditse, and Phajoding. These are a few Buddhist monasteries that not only offer a feeling of tranquility but also reflection. You will still see some of the most lively and decorative places of the area, such as the huge Buddha Dordenma statue, the fort Tashichho Dzong, and the crowded Thimphu streets.The 108 Druk Wangyal Chorten is a must-see for you when you are strolling along the path with a very photogenic view beside the road. Moreover, to these wonderful attractions and the spectacular nature, this tour will offer you to enjoy the traditional culture of Bhutan especially.

Highlights of Thimphu Valley Hike

The major highlights of the hike are visiting ancient monasteries, interacting with locals, enjoying views of mountains, and so on

Scenic Hikes to Ancient Monasteries

During this hike, you are going to trek through the forest trails that connect you with the most sacred monasteries of Bhutan, namely Tango, Cheri, Wangditse, and Phajoding. Every monastery is a delight in itself, from the time of early teachings to now, and with its calmness around. The trails lead you through the peaceful forests of pine and rhododendron, which are really refreshing and soothing. When you get to the monasteries, it will be like a gift to you with the spectacular views of the valley and mountains, and thus the experience will be as great as the rest of the journey.

Cultural Immersion in Thimphu

In the fascinating capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu, you will not only encounter Buddhism’s lovely culture, but also the modern elements that are present today. The journey begins with a visit to the grand Buddha Dordenma statue, built to be a symbol of peace to the people of the world. The next stop is the Tashichho Dzong, the largest fortress in the city, which is a symbol of strength and unity for the many groups of people who call this beautiful city home . When you are in the capital city of Bhutan, go for a vibrant walk through the local markets, stumble upon all sorts of local handicrafts, traditional goods, and charming glimpses of the reality of the ordinary people of Bhutan. It is a way to touch the spiritual element of this culture, as well as the bustling aspect of all these people selling their goods and interacting with each other.

Dochula Pass & Himalayan Views

On the way to Dochula Pass, the view of 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, an amazing icon of harmony and understanding, will greet you. Enclosed by refreshing mountain air, this place is both sacred and beautiful. When the sky is clear, the pass provides amazing views of the Himalayan range, reaching the heavy snows on the top of the mountains, which appear quite amazing. The mix of holy monuments and impressive mountain landscapes gives you an experience that is both uplifting and indelible, thus a perfect combination of nature’s wonders and the spiritual heritage of Bhutan.

Authentic Bhutanese Experiences

This remarkable journey invites you to connect deeply with the stunning and interesting Bhutanese life. You will have the chance to step inside enchanting monasteries to see how monks live. Conversations with monks will offer you very rare insights into Bhutan’s rich values and traditions, which practically every Bhutanese would know about and be proud of. Sharing simple but traditional Bhutanese meals with friendly monks gives you a true feel and taste of the country’s warmth. These experiences allow you not just to see Bhutan but to allow yourself to feel it. This is surely not just a series of breathtaking sights but a whole other world for those who are willing to let go of their tension and let the country touch their hearts and minds.

Perfect Balance of Adventure & Comfort

This particular hike has been thoughtfully built to offer you the needed thrill while still allowing you a chance to rest and relax after busy days. After each day of a well-spent hike, the warm, homely, and secure lodges guarantee proper lodgings. This perfect blend has made this tour to be favorable for every class of people. Thus, the best thing about this fantastic journey is that it really does uplift and give you the best of both worlds; hike through the most magnificent nature and access to lovely lodging facilities that make sure that this experience is made memorable, so that everybody goes back home wanting more.

Conclusion

Each day is a new experience with a diverse range of activities such as quiet walks in the woods or visiting old monasteries like Tango, Cheri, and Phajoding, to discovering the neighborhoods like Buddha Dordenma and Tashichho Dzong. Furthermore, the visit to Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens representing the spirit of Bhutanese people, is highly recommended. You will also meet monks who are full of warmth and wisdom.You will also enjoy authentic Bhutanese dishes and get a peek into the daily life of the Bhutanese. The days will be packed with gentle strolls and cozy lodgings, thus these days will be truly great and unforgettable.

 

Short Itinerary

Day 01 :

Arrive in Paro, drive to Thimphu, visit Buddha Dordenma & Tashichho Dzong, explore local market.

Day 02 :

Hike to Tango Monastery, afternoon hike to Cheri Monastery or Wangditse Lhakhang.

Day 03 :

Hike to Phajoding Monastery, explore Textile & Folk Heritage Museums, optional cultural dance program.

Day 04 :

Drive to Dochula Pass, optional hike to Lungchutse Monastery, return to Paro, departure.

Thimphu Valley Hike Itinerary

Duration
Duration: 6-7 hours
Start Point
Start Point: Paro International Airport
Maximum Altitude
Maximum Altitude: 2,320 meters (Thimphu)
Activity
Activity: Sightseeing & Cultural Exploration
Difficulty
Difficulty: Easy
Accommodation
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Meals
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Best Seasons
Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn

After you arrive at Paro Airport, there will be our company representatives to welcome you. Upon meeting the guide, you will start a beautiful drive of approximately 1.5 hours (55 km) through the Pa Chu and Thimphu Chu rivers to get to Thimphu. A stopover at Tamchhog Iron Bridge will give excellent opportunities for photography and to enjoy the surroundings and history of the region.

After you reach Thimphu, first you will check out the Buddha Dordenma. This huge 169-foot-tall golden statue is mounted at a very high elevation above the valley. Your next visit will be to Tashichho Dzong, a beautiful place. You can take an easy stroll around the town, which gives you access to the local handicraft shops, and you can also taste the local foods.

Then, you will get back to your hotel in Thimphu, where you will spend a night.

Gallery

Duration
Duration: 6-7 hours
Start Point
Start Point: Thimphu Hotel
Maximum Altitude
Maximum Altitude: 2,700 meters (Tango Monastery)
Activity
Activity: Hiking & Sightseeing
Difficulty
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Accommodation
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Meals
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Best Seasons
Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn

On this day, you will have an exciting opportunity to go on a spectacular morning hike to the very well-known Tango Monastery. When you arrive at Tango Monastery, you will be given an opportunity to carefully explore its corners and experience the true silence of its very unique surroundings. You will then have the great delight of enjoying a picnic-style lunch at the riverbanks, putting all the fatigue from the hike behind.

As the sun starts to descend, it is planned for another delightful, gentle hike this time to the very first monastery of Bhutan, the Cheri Monastery. It is a pleasant yet brisk 1.5-hour round trip. You also have an option for another small hike to the Wangditse Lhakhang, a temple that lies high on a hill and provides fantastic panoramic views over Thimphu Town. You will be staying overnight in Thimphu.

Gallery

Duration
Duration: 6-8 hours
Start Point
Start Point: Thimphu Hotel
Maximum Altitude
Maximum Altitude: 3,600 meters (Phajoding Monastery)
Activity
Activity: Hiking, Cultural Exploration & Relaxation
Difficulty
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Meals
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Best Seasons
Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn

You will take an amazing and absolutely stunning trip to the amazing hills above Thimphu on your third day. In the morning, you will do a 4-5 hour hike to the beautiful Phajoding Monastery (3,600m). It is a great walk in the spectacular mountain areas through the forests of rhododendron and blue pine trees. The monastery will not only give you amazing views and tranquility, but also the chance to see the monks with whom you can interact, the peaceful life that they lead, and the beautiful valley of Thimphu.

You will return to Thimphu and have a relaxed moment in the afternoon. You may also explore the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum, which exhibit unique artifacts. In the early evening, you have a chance to witness an optional cultural handing program featuring traditional Bhutanese dances. You will return to the hotel after a hectic day and rest well.

Gallery

Duration
Duration: 6-7 hours
Start Point
Start Point: Thimphu Hotel
Activity
Activity: Sightseeing, Optional Hiking & Departure
Difficulty
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Meals
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Best Seasons
Best Seasons: Spring and Autumn

Your day will start with a one-hour drive to Dochula Pass (3,100m), the place where the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens are located, and which is known for these Chortens. If the weather is good, you can get an awe-inspiring view of the Himalayan mountains that seem to go on forever.

Those who like may do an optional hike to Lungchutse Monastery, a 3-4 hour round trip walk through the rhododendron, moss, and fir forests. The road takes you to the temple on the mountain that provides an amazing view of Bhutan.

You will be driven to Paro in the afternoon. This will be the final moment of your magnificent trip to Thimphu Valley and its monasteries.

Gallery

Know Before You Travel

  • Best season for the trip:

    The best seasons for the Thimphu Valley Hike are definitely spring and autumn. March to May is a great time to go, the weather is lovely with a bright blue sky and beautiful rhododendrons in full bloom, giving a splash of colour to the trails. This season makes your hikes not only refreshing but also full of natural beauty.

    September to November is great too, as the air is crisp and the sky is very clear, so you get beautiful views of the Himalayas. Autumn is also very lively in Bhutan. Thus, you may see local festivities going on and also meet the locals with whom you can associate during their rituals and traditions.

    Winter (December to February) is very cold, but it's still a time when you can enjoy the valley with fewer crowds and peaceful trails. June to August is not a good time to go because the rain comes, and that makes hiking very difficult. For the perfect combination of weather, scenery, and comfort, spring and autumn are the best.

FAQs for Thimphu Valley Hike

GENERAL

Hiking to Tango is a round trip of approximately 2 hours and to Cheri about 1.5 hours. Both these hikes are short and rewarding, as you get to pass through woods and on your way, you will have to walk up the gentle slope.

Hiking to Phajoding Monastery is the longest on the trip, time-wise about 4-5 hours round trip. Along the way, you get to see amazing views of Thimphu Valley and have the opportunity to talk to monks.

You will visit 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. If the sky is clear, you can get an amazing view of the entire Himalayas, which is one of the most beautiful sights of the tour.

The drive from Paro to Thimphu takes roughly one and a half hours. Also, you can enjoy lovely view of the Pa Chu and Thimphu Chu rivers, and a tour of the Tamchhog Iron Bridge is included.

 

No, the overnight stays are at comfortable hotels in Thimphu and Paro. Monastery visits are day excursions and so there is time for wandering and interaction.

ARRIVAL AND VISA

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.

PAYMENT AND EXTRA COST

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:

  • Tips for your guide and other staff
  • Bottled drinks and snacks(personal expense)
  • Souvenirs or local crafts

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.

TRANSPORTATION AND FLIGHTS

Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. It is well connected by flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.

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.

CURRENCY

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.

LANGUAGE

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.

LOCAL CUSTOMS AND ETIQUETTE

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:

  • Covering shoulders and knees
  • Removing hats and sunglasses
  • Not wearing shorts or sleeveless tops

 This applies to both men and women.

Yes, Bhutanese society is deeply rooted in Buddhism and tradition. Here are some key taboos:

  • Do not point your feet at people or sacred objects
  • Never touch anyone on the head, as it is considered sacred
  • Walk clockwise around temples, stupas, and religious monuments
  • Avoid public displays of affection

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.

ELECTRICAL PLUGS

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.

TIME ZONE

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.

SHOPPING AND SOUVENIRS

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.

MOBILE PHONES AND INTERNET

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.

ACCOMODATION

Along our trip, we will go through different places. So, we will stay in accommodation that is available, ranging from boutique wellness resorts and eco-lodges to comfortable 3-star hotels and trekking campsites.

Yes, Bhutan has a growing number of wellness-focused retreats and luxury lodges that offer spa, yoga, and meditation programs. So, you will be staying in wellness resorts to lift your overall experience.

Yes, most accommodations provide hot water and heating. During treks, basic facilities are available, but comfort varies depending on altitude and remoteness. 

HEALTH AND FITNESS

You need to be moderately fit for activities like hiking, cycling, and trekking. We can tailor itineraries based on your fitness level.

Absolutely, our programs suit all experience levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.

Our guides are trained in basic first aid and altitude-related issues. They will ease you, and an emergency evacuation will be arranged if necessary.

WELLNESS EXPERIENCE

Depending on the tour, you experience yoga, meditation, traditional Bhutanese hot stone baths, herbal treatments, and spiritual rituals guided by monks.

Yes, our retreats include sessions with monks or lamas for mindfulness, Buddhist teachings, and guided meditations.

FOOD AND NUTRITION

We provide nutritious, mostly organic meals, often prepared with locally grown ingredients. If you have any special diet plan, please inform us beforehand so that it can be accommodated.

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and detox-friendly menus are available on request, especially at wellness-focused properties.

TREKKKING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

We offer trekking, day hikes, cycling, nature walks, rafting, bird watching, and cultural village stays, often integrated with wellness themes in Bhutan.

Yes, on multi-day treks, you’ll hike daily, typically 4–7 hours a day. However, routes can be customized with rest days.

BOOKING AND TOUR INCLUSIONS

The package includes accommodations, all meals, professional guides, entrance fees, wellness sessions, equipment (for treks/yoga), and all transport.

It’s best to book 2 to 4 months in advance, especially during peak trekking or festival seasons.

COMMUNICATION AND CONNECTIVITY

The Internet is available in most hotels and wellness centers, but connectivity is limited or unavailable during treks or in remote areas. 

Reviews & Ratings

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this tour!
Most popular
Price Per person
$ 7.00
  • Guarantee
  • Thimphu,Bhutan
  • 975+17160228

Ready to Explore Bhutan?

Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.

Book This Trip

Guests 1
Total Cost: $ 7.00
  • No booking or credit card fees
  • Best price guarantee
  • Full customize trip

Ask a Question

Feel free to ask us anything about this tour. A travel expert will then get back to you as soon as possible

Ready to Explore Bhutan?

Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.

Similar Trip

Druk Path Trek
7 days
Bumdrak Trek
6 days
Jomolhari Trek
10 days
Merak Sakteng Trek
7 days
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
8 days
Gasa to Punakha Trek
9 days
$ 7.00/ person

Sign In

⌘ + K • Search any destination or premium tour