A tour to Bhutan, often called the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is not just a journey through stunning Himalayan landscapes—it’s a spiritual and cultural awakening. Nestled between India and China, Bhutan is one of the world’s most unique travel destinations, known for its unspoiled nature, vibrant traditions, and the philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Bhutan tours offer a rare opportunity to step into a country where ancient monasteries cling to cliff sides, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, and time seems to move slower. With strict tourism policies focused on sustainability, every visitor experiences Bhutan in an authentic, respectful way—far from the crowds and chaos of mass tourism.
What Makes Bhutan Special?
- Spiritual Retreat: Visit centuries-old monasteries, dzongs (fortresses), and sacred sites like the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Natural Beauty: Majestic mountains, lush valleys, and pristine forests make Bhutan a haven for trekkers, photographers, and nature lovers.
- Cultural Richness: Witness vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and local craftsmanship that reflect Bhutan’s deep-rooted heritage.
- Warm Hospitality: Bhutanese people are known for their kindness and respect for guests, guided by Buddhist values.
- Low-impact Tourism: With a “High Value, Low Volume” policy, Bhutan ensures an enriching experience with minimal environmental and cultural disruption.
How to Start?
Choose your travel dates and length of stay. Pick a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or international partner. Finalize your itinerary and pay for the tour (including SDF and visa fees). Receive your visa clearance letter. Book your flight to Paro International Airport (usually via Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok, or Singapore). Arrive in Bhutan and enjoy your guided tour!
Types of Bhutan Tours
Cultural Tours – Explore dzongs, monasteries, and rural life, Trekking Tours – Journey through some of the world’s most beautiful and remote mountain trails, Spiritual & Wellness Retreats – Rejuvenate with meditation, hot stone baths, and peaceful surroundings, Photography & Nature Tours – Capture Bhutan’s scenic vistas and rich biodiversity and Festival Tours – Experience vibrant religious festivals like Paro Tsechu or Thimphu Tshechu.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May) – For rhododendrons in bloom and clear mountain views
- Autumn (September to November) – For festivals and pleasant weather
How Does a Bhutan Tour Work?
Visa & Travel Arrangements
- All international travelers (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian citizens) need a visa to enter Bhutan.
- You cannot travel independently — tours must be booked through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner.
- The operator will handle your visa application, flights (especially to/from Paro Airport), and all internal arrangements.
Daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Volume” tourism policy.
- Tourists pay a daily SDF (e.g., $100–$200 per person per day depending on current regulations), which contributes to education, healthcare, and sustainability in Bhutan.
- This fee is usually included in your tour package.
Tour Package Inclusions
Most Bhutan tour packages are all-inclusive, and typically cover:
- Visa arrangement and processing
- Accommodation (3-star minimum, upgradeable to luxury hotels)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Private vehicle and driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Entry fees to monuments and sites
- Airport transfers (usually via Paro International Airport)
Types of Tours
You can choose from different kinds of Bhutan tours:
- Cultural tours (most popular)
- Festival tours (based on local religious events)
- Trekking tours (like the Druk Path Trek)
- Spiritual or wellness retreats
- Customized private tours
Daily Itinerary
Your guide will accompany you each day as you explore:
- Monasteries and Dzongs (e.g., Tiger’s Nest, Punakha Dzong)
- Scenic drives through valleys and mountains
- Local culture and cuisine
- Opportunities for short hikes, photography, or shopping
Transportation
- Internal travel is typically by private vehicle, as Bhutan has no domestic flights or trains.
- Distances between cities (Paro, Thimphu, Punakha) are short but winding due to mountainous terrain.
Accommodations
- Comfortable 3-star hotels are included in standard packages.
- Luxury options like Amankora, Six Senses, or COMO Uma are available for premium travelers.
Trip Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing – Return to Paro
Day 03: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Day 04: Departure from Paro
Details Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Scenic drive through the mountains and river valleys. Traditional Bhutanese architecture and landscapes. Arrive at Paro International Airport (altitude: 2,280 m). Meet your local guide and driver, Drive to Thimphu (approx. 1.5 – 2 hrs), En route, stop at Tamchog Lhakhang and iron chain bridge. Check into your hotel in Thimphu. Visit Tashichho Dzong (fortress of the glorious religion) and stroll around the city. Stay overnight at Thimphu.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 02: Thimphu Sightseeing – Return to Paro
Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, and Folk Heritage, Drive back to Paro for sightseeing. Buddha Dordenma – one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. National Memorial Chorten – a place of daily worship for locals, Folk Heritage Museum and Textile Museum. Explore the Centenary Farmers Market (weekends only). After lunch, drive back to Paro, On arrival, visit Rinpung Dzong, walk the traditional cantilever bridge. Explore Paro town and local markets, Stay overnight at Paro
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 03: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Bhutan’s most iconic and spiritual landmark. A breathtaking hike with panoramic views, Early breakfast and drive to the base of Taktsang Monastery. Begin the hike to Tiger’s Nest (approx. 2–3 hours uphill), Explore the monastery perched on a cliff at 3,120 m, Return hike and lunch at a local cafeteria mid-way. Optional visit to Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Enjoy a traditional hot stone bath in the evening stay overnight at the Monastery
- Accommodation: Monastery
- Meals Include: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 04: Departure from Paro
Breakfast at the hotel, Transfer to Paro International Airport. Bid farewell to the Land of Happiness with cherished memories
Cost Details
Cost Includes
- Accommodation in 3/4/5-star hotels
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- All transfers and sightseeing in private vehicle
- English-speaking guide
- Entry fees to monuments
Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
FAQ
Route Map
Gallery
Client Reviews
Jerry S
Cäoud cloudthes
Great trip! Megh and Sammy took care of everything. From food, to logistics, to accommodation. Couldn’t have been better.
Bill Steinmetz
Everything was taken care of for us in terms of arrangements and airport transfers. Our guide Megh met us at the airport in Kathmandu, arranged our lodging, meals, flights to and from Lukla, shopping for gear extras in town. All our lodging on the trips was also reserved for us. Meals were all served in the lodges. Megh was on the trek with us along with porters who took our gear. We carried day packs.You should plan 3 weeks minimum for this trip and it will require at least 2 days acclimatization. If I remember correctly, as we got higher, we may have as much as 9 days above 14,000 ft and with that, peaks still rose around us another 4-5 thousand feet if not more. You also should to be in condition for this trek. I also had mild altitude sickness at base camp but did not need intervention. So it is recommended that you learn as much as possible about how to prepare for a trek like this. But the rewards may be well worth it, as some of our photos may illustrate.Consider adding more days for touring in Kathmandu or even for a visit to India on the way home like we did (also arranged by Megh)
Nesrin B
Megh is a great guide, reliable and understanding. He was very helpful to my friend Havva and me during the Annapurna Base Camp trek. He is also fun and interesting. If you travel with Megh, you will be satisfied.
PMR5511
I had an absolutely incredible experience with Kingdom Treks, a top-notch trekking company in Nepal that made my Himalayan adventure unforgettable! Megh and their team delivered a perfectly organized, culturally immersive, and awe-inspiring journey that exceeded all expectations. As someone new to high-altitude trekking, I felt reassured by their focus on safety and flexibility gave me confidence throughout the journey. Megh was phenomenal—knowledgeable, warm, and always ready with fascinating insights about Nepalese culture and the landscapes we explored. Megh’s team, including the hardworking porters, went above and beyond, ensuring we had comfortable teahouse accommodations with hearty meals and jaw-dropping mountain views. Highly Recommend!
REAL INDIA
We had an absolutely incredible experience with Kingdom Trek company in Nepal , Brother Megh is a great guide and a good leader , We enjoyed the trip with this company , always appreciate their efforts, GOD Bless them
Marissa E
As a Canadian female, I’ve trekked with Megh on two trips to Nepal. When we met the first time, I came with a trekking group, we instantly clicked and I now call him “my Nepali dad”. Which he embodies for everyone–he is kind, honest, genuine, and of course, a pro at leading any kind of trek (and making it fun). I went back again a few years later by myself and Megh went above and beyond–picked me up from the airport and helped me navigate busy Kathmandu and Mt. Everest base camp as a solo female. He’s become a lifelong friend of over a decade now, we still keep in touch! If you want a professional who’s been in the game for many years, and someone you can genuinely trust, trek with Megh!
Mustafa E
Wonderful Country and fantastic people.. You can trust Meg and his team with your life literally… I made also friends for life and will do the same journey again soon.. Many thanks Mero Sathi..
Agnes Bonne
Megh and his team were amazing!
What a great experience to climb in the Himalayas. Half way of the Mont Everest! Never though I could do it but with their wisdom, encouraging words along the way and God, I made it!
Hallelujah the Himalayas … there is a God and Megh with his team. I really suggest anyone to go even if you don’t go that high.. just tell Megh what you can and want to do and he will personalize your trip. A must do without any hesitation.
Doowder
I Enjoyed having Megh Gurung as a Guide
Megh Gurung was an excellent guide and was easy to work with on my group trek to Everest Base Camp. I recommend him to anyone interested in a guided trek in Nepal. If you are trying to decide whether or not to use a guide while trekking, my recommendation is to do so as they add a lot to the experience.
If you are looking for a fulfilling and exciting trekking experience in the Himalayas, I highly recommend securing the services of Megh Gurung and Kingdom Treks.
I have twice joined teams that Megh guided to Poon Hill in the Annapurna Range, and both times I was amazed by the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, and by Megh’s outstanding service and attention to detail. An extra benefit is his wit, humor, and warm personality. Megh leadership made both treks memorable, fun, and truly unforgettable. You can’t go wrong choosing Kingdom Treks.