Bhutan Monastery Trail
Overview
The Kingdom of Bhutan — the world's last Himalayan Buddhist kingdom — measures its prosperity in Gross National Happiness. On this 7-day journey you'll trek to the mythical Tiger's Nest Monastery clinging to a 3,000-metre cliff, witness rare black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley, attend a traditional archery tournament, and sleep within earshot of monastery bells. Entry to Bhutan requires a Sustainable Development Fee, which is included in your package.
Package Features
Taktsang Monastery at 3,120 m elevation.
Fortress monastery at the river confluence.
Bhutan's national sport demonstrated by locals.
Wildlife viewing in Phobjikha Valley.
Full SDF included — directly supports conservation.
Include Features
- 6 nights 3-star hotels
- All meals included
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Visa fee
- Licensed Bhutanese guide
- All monument fees
- Domestic airport transfer
Excluded Features
- International flights to/from Paro
- Alcohol
- Personal travel insurance
- Tipping (appreciated but optional)
- Personal shopping
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Paro
- Scenic mountain-flanked landing at Paro Airport
- Drive to Thimphu (capital)
- Traditional Bhutanese welcome dinner
- Thimphu evening walk
Day 2 Thimphu Sights
- National Memorial Chorten
- Zorkhang pottery workshop
- Takin Preserve (Bhutan's national animal)
- Club Fabrica — live folk music
Day 3 Tiger's Nest
- Full day trek to Taktsang Monastery (4–5 hrs return)
- Meditation cave visit with monk
- Lunch at mountain cafeteria
- Relax at Paro hotel
Day 4 Thimphu → Punakha
- Dochula Pass (108 memorial chortens & Himalaya views)
- Punakha Dzong fortress monastery
- Botanical garden walk
- Punakha hotel check-in
Day 5 Phobjikha Valley
- Black-Necked Crane Information Centre
- Gangtey Monastery
- Valley nature walk
- Traditional Bhutanese farming village visit
Day 6 Return to Paro & Farewell
- Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Kichu Lhakhang (7th-century temple)
- Traditional hot stone bath
- Farewell dinner with Ara (local spirit) tasting
Day 7 Departure
- Airport transfer
- Flight home
Payment Policy
- 40% deposit required
- Balance due 60 days before departure
- Bhutan government fees are non-refundable once confirmed
Refund Policy
- 60+ days: deposit forfeited
- 30–59 days: 60% of total
- 0–29 days: no refund
- Government fees non-refundable in all cases
Policy & Important Terms
- Bhutan Visa required — we handle the application
- Dress modestly at all dzongs and monasteries
- Photography inside temples may be restricted
- Altitude considerations for the Tiger's Nest trek
Most Booked
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Tiger's Nest trek?
It's a moderate 4–5 hour return hike with steep sections. Mule transport is available for part of the ascent at extra cost.
Why is Bhutan so expensive?
Bhutan requires all tourists to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per night, funding free healthcare, education and conservation. This is included in your package.
Is photography allowed inside monasteries?
Some temples permit photography without flash; others don't. Your guide will advise on site.