Western Bhutan Cultural Tour
Bhutan Tour

Western Bhutan Cultural Tour

Book Now

Other Packages

Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude N/A
  • Grade N/A
  • Duration 7 Days
  • Group Size N/A

Overview

Bhutan is well known for its distinctive cultural heritage. Despite being a small nation, it is home to over a thousand monasteries and Gompas. Bhutan offers you different antique visits to different traditional and overwhelming places having historical Significance. Among several highly recommended tours in Bhutan, a cultural tour to the Western part of Bhutan is one of them. This tour lets you explore several places in Bhutan including the capital. The 8-day tour offers the rare side of Paro Thimphu and Punakha. The cultural tour to western Bhutan provides you with a glimpse of its rich religious and cultural heritage all along the way. Besides, the journey offers you Bhutan’s incredible landscapes, high mountain pass, Lush green valley, beautiful countryside, and alpine meadows. 

Western Bhutan Cultural Tour

Western Bhutan Cultural Tour lets you explore some of the popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. Starting your Paro tour with places like Drugyel Dzong, Ta Dzong you will then go for a hike to Taktsang monastery. The 2-hour hike let us experience the wonderful platform of culture and heritage site in Bhutan. The monastery is located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan. Then, we will explore the capital of Bhutan also, the largest city in Bhutan. Moreover, the capital offers us wonderful Buddhist monasteries and Gompas such as Memorial Chorten, Tashi Choe Dzong, cemetery farmers markets, crafts bazaars. Besides, you can visit Takins- home to Bhutan’s national animals. On the other hand, you can visit Punakha Dzong and hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Wangdi Dzong, and explore Jigme Dorji National Park in Punakha.

The fabulous Tour is mostly favorable for anyone of any age group as it is one of the easiest tours in Bhutan.  This tour covers an area of scenic grandeur and cultural specificity displaying the best of Bhutan. Therefore, visitors are simply amazed by the splendor and cultural uniqueness that is offered by Bhutan. On the Other hand, the suitable season for this tour is all round the year. There is no specific time or season for this tour. Thus, this spectacular tour to Bhutan is one of the life-changing experiences for many people seeking cultural exploration.

Trip facts

Tour Name: Western Bhutan Cultural Tour

Duration: 8 days

Country: Bhutan

Transportation: Flight and Comfortable rides

Best Season: All year round

Trip Type: Tour Sightseeing and short Hike

Starting City: Paro

Ending City: Paro

 

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive at Paro Airport

Your tour to Bhutan starts with your arrival at Paro International Airport. From the flight to Paro, if the weather is fine, you will experience the stunning view of the High Himalayas. Our Airport representative will pick you up from the Airport Terminal and transfer you to the hotel. Besides, you will be spending your night in Paro today so in the afternoon you will explore several places in Paro. Paro is the valley town in Bhutan known for several sacred sites in the area. So, the very first thing you will do in Paro is the drive to Drugyel Dzong, a ruined fortress (16km from Paro Town). It was built in 1646 to honor Bhutan’s victory over Tibetian invaders during the 1600s. Furthermore, if the weather is clear you can see the peak of Mt Chomolhari, which is the 2nd highest peak in Bhutan at 7,314m. 

On the other hand, you can even visit Ta Dzong, a fortified outlook tower which is now a national museum. You can explore one of the oldest temples in Bhutan Kyichu Lhakhang. In Addition, you can make your way to observe the typical Bhutanese farmhouse. Therefore, You can spend your evening either resting in the hotel or going for a night out to explore the wonderful market of Paro. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.

Day 02

Drive Paro To Thimphu

Today we will set out our destination to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. Thimphu is another popular tourist destination. The distance from Paro to Thimphu is 50km which is about 1 hr 30 min drive excluding stops. Thimphu is the largest city in Bhutan situated in the western central part of Bhutan. Thimphu is the political and economic center of Bhutan. It is fully reflected in Buddhist culture, religion, and monasteries. However, Thimphu also offers the stunning scenario of Bhutanese landscapes as well as the life of people in the city. The drive takes you to the winding road alongside the Paro Chu river to the river’s confluence at Chuzom. From Chuzom the road follows through an upstream direction, through the Wangchu river to the capital Thimphu. We will pass through several villages on the way such as Bondey, Shaba, Isuna, etc.

 Besides, the notable villages you see on the way are Kharbije, on the opposite side of the river, small Sitsina, where you can see the small convent. On the other hand, you can see Khasadrapchu with Hydro plant and shops,l rice paddies, apple orchards, and several old houses. In the evening you can stroll around the market at Thimphu. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03

Thimphu Sightseeing

The 3rd day of the tour starts with sightseeing at the capital of Bhutan. Today we will spend our whole day at Thimphu. Thimphu is home to 100000 inhabitants including the royal family Thimphu has a lot to offer to visitors as it is popular for its Buddhist monasteries and culture. So, the very thing you can do in Thimpu is to visit the Buddha point for the incredible view of the whole Thimphu city. Next on the list to do in Thimphu is visit Takins-which is home to Bhutan’s national animals. Furthermore, you can see the animals gathered around the fences if you travel here early in the morning. In addition, you can visit the Memorial Chorten which is a huge stupa built-in memory of the third King. Besides, visit the National Library where ancient monuments are preserved and protected. 

On the other hand, you can spare some time to Tashi Choe Dzong- the castle of illustrious religion originally constructed in 1641. It was later rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s. After lunch, we will visit cemetery farmers markets, crafts bazaars as well as the institute of traditional medicine in Thimphu for you to explore. Another must not miss a place in Thimphu is a 300-year-old traditional house which is now converted into a museum. Your evening can be overjoyed by visiting the market in Thimphu. Overnight at Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 04

Thimphu - Punakha

When it is about cultural exploration Punakha is another great destination in Bhutan. Today we will drive from Thimphu to Punakha. The distance from Thimphu to Punakha is 84km which takes about 2 and a half hours to drive excluding the stop. After breakfast, enjoy an early morning scenic drive to Punakha. After the half, hour drive to Punakha, climb up to the Mt road to Dochula pass at an elevation of 3140m. You can explore the wonderful panorama of the eastern Himalayas in case of nice weather. From the Dochula La pass, descend through the forest of Rhododendron emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. Besides, on your way to Punakha, you can stop at some point mesmerizing the beauty of nature, taking photographs for wonderful memories.

On the way, you can even stop at Metshina Village to take a short hike through the beautiful rice field to Chimmi Lakhang. Chimmi Lakhang is a temple dedicated to the Devine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. Likewise, this temple has become a pilgrimage site for a Childless couple. After lunch, you can visit Punakha Dzong, situated in between male and female rivers like an anchored ship. Overnight at Punakha hotel.

Day 05

Punakha sightseeing

Early in the morning, we will drive to Punakha Dzong which is the most elaborated temple in the country. This is the must seen the temple in Bhutan which presents a fine example of Bhutanese Art and Architecture. So if you want to explore more, you can even hike right above the  Dzong. The short steep climb offers a great view of the valley with houses spread all around with turquoise river and its sandy bank. There is even another option, you can go for the hike in Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. It is a beautiful monastery situated on the ridge above the Punakha valley. It is a four-story Bhutanese temple that offers a view of a splendid architectural and artistic vision of Bhutanese culture. If you are tired then you could stop at Wangdi province and have a short hike to ancient Rinchengang overlooking the ruins of Wangdi Dzong.

However, if you are not really into the hike, then you can go to Jigme Dorji National Park. It was built by 3rd Bhutanese King Jigme Dorji in 1974 which is 4316 km in the area. The park is second largest in the country and home to various endangered species such as Snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, Asiatic wild dog, Red Panda, etc. Besides, you can feel nature in this park. Your evening can be more joyous by exploring the Punakha Market. Overnight at Hotel in Punakha.

Day 06

Punakha - Paro

Early in the morning, we will go for a hike to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery in Punakha. The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery sits atop a hill and provides us with a view of the wonderful Punakha valley and Wangdeuphodrang valley. Moreover, you will even get an opportunity for bird watching and witnessing the rare and interesting natural phenomenon. Later, we will drive to the city where we have started our journey, Paro. The drive today will be the longest of all. The distance from Punakha to Paro is about 125km which takes about 3 and a half-hour of drive. However, we can stop at Thimphu for the lunch as well as visit the place that we have missed before. We will pass through several villages in Bhutan, explore several monasteries and Gompas on the way. 

Similarly, the scenic drive from Punakha to Paro presents you with a splendid view of lush green valleys, High Himalayas views, etc. Moreover, you can explore the typical life of Bhutanese people on your way. Upon reaching Paro, we can either rest in the hotel and get ready for the next short trek or can even stroll around the market in Paro. Overnight at Hotel in Paro

Day 07

Paro-Taktsang Monastery

Our tour today is to one of the finest monasteries in Bhutan Taktsang Monastery. When it comes to traveling to Bhutan, A tour is incomplete without visiting Taktsang Monastery Early morning after breakfast, we will drive to Satsam Chorten and then hike to Taktsang monastery. Taktsang Monasteries are also known as Tiger’s nest is one of the ancient monasteries in Bhutan. The 2-hour hike let us experience the wonderful platform of culture and heritage side that Bhutan offers. The monastery is located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan. It is the sacred site of Buddhist which was 1st built-in 1692. However, it is said that Guru Padmasambhava had flown on the back of the Tigress to meditate in the cave in the 8th century thus, giving it the name Tiger Nest. This place is the cultural icon of Buddhism. 

After exploration of this monastery, you can hike back to the road and drive to Kyichu Lhakhang, a seventh-century temple. Later, visit Rinpung Dzong which is a Buddhist fortress featuring several Shrines and Chapels, as well as wall paintings and grand architecture. In the evening you can explore the Paro market. Overnight at hotel in Paro.

Day 08

Departure

Today will be the last day of your Central Bhutan Cultural tour. Bidding farewell to the Kingdom of Bhutan, our Airport representative will drop you off at Paro International Airport wishing for your safe and happy return.

Note: B L D = Breakfast, Lunch;
Please let us know whether you would like to make your itinerary shorter or longer. It can be designed according to your preferences.

Pricing

Price for Western Bhutan Cultural Tour in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • Private transportation
  • Necessary Bhutan travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide and Driver
  • Accommodation on Twin sharing/ Single room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis
  • Bhutan Government Royalty fee ($ 65 per person / per day)
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Flight fare for Kathmandu- Paro- Kathmandu or from other destination.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.

Trip Info

Short Description Mode Of The Packages: What Are Included In The Packages

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast at 2 to 3 stars level, Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking, both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, necessary permits, all the ground transportation by tourist vehicles, an experienced guide and porter and all the necessary permits.

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.