InternationalBhutan
Bhutan Valleys and Gangtey Explorer
Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey & Paro, Bhutan
Explore Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Paro on this Bhutan tour from India, combining Phobjikha Valley walks, monastery visits and a Tiger's Nest hike.
- Duration
- 8 days, 7 nights
- Group size
- 2 to 12 travellers
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Best season
- Spring, Autumn and Winter
The trip
Why this trip works
Travel through Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Paro over seven nights, from riverside architecture and village paths to Phobjikha Valley's open landscapes. You visit Gangtey Monastery and take a gentle nature walk before the long drive back to Paro. A full day is set aside for Tiger's Nest. Pack warmer layers for winter and leave room for changing road conditions. Your starting land budget includes Indian adult SDF, private transport and local guiding.
- 01Gangtey Monastery
- 02Phobjikha Valley walk
- 03Punakha Dzong
- 04Dochula Pass
- 05Tiger's Nest hike
8 days
Day by day itinerary
- 1
Day 01
Paro Arrival and Thimphu Transfer
Arrive at Paro Airport and travel privately to Thimphu, stopping at Chuzom along the way. You visit Buddha Dordenma if flight timings allow, then check into your hotel and take the evening gently while adjusting to the altitude. Overnight in Thimphu.
- 2
Day 02
Thimphu Monuments and Local Shops
Visit Memorial Chorten and Motithang Takin Preserve, then browse Thimphu's shops and market streets. You explore Tashichho Dzong during public visiting hours, which can change around official events, before choosing your own dinner plans. Overnight in Thimphu.
- 3
Day 03
Dochula Views and Chimi Lhakhang
Cross Dochula Pass, looking towards distant Himalayan peaks when the weather is clear. You descend into Punakha Valley and follow the village approach to Chimi Lhakhang, then check into your hotel for an easy evening. Overnight in Punakha.
- 4
Day 04
Punakha Dzong and Riverside Views
Spend your morning at Punakha Dzong, then cross the nearby suspension bridge. You have time for photographs and riverside views without rushing. You can add a countryside walk in the afternoon if the weather suits. Overnight in Punakha.
- 5
Day 05
Gangtey Monastery and Phobjikha Valley
Travel to Gangtey and visit its monastery before a gentle nature walk through Phobjikha Valley. You may see black-necked cranes in winter, though sightings vary. Keep warmer layers handy for the higher elevation and cooler evening. Overnight in Gangtey.
- 6
Day 06
Gangtey Mountain Roads to Paro
After breakfast, you leave Gangtey for Paro, a mountain-road journey of roughly six to seven hours with breaks. Keep sightseeing light on arrival; visit Kyichu Lhakhang today or after tomorrow's hike, depending on time. Overnight in Paro.
- 7
Day 07
Paro Tiger's Nest Guided Walk
Set out early for Tiger's Nest, pacing the uphill walk with your guide. You spend most of the day on the trail, visiting the monastery and returning. Afterwards, you can add a hot-stone bath at extra cost. Overnight in Paro.
- 8
Day 08
Paro Breakfast and Airport Farewell
Have breakfast and check out before your private airport transfer. You can keep any final browsing close to the hotel, leaving enough time for flight formalities. Your journey through Bhutan finishes with your departure from Paro Airport.
The fine print
What's included and what's not
Included
- Seven nights in comparable hotels and a Gangtey lodge, twin sharing
- Seven breakfasts
- Private airport transfers
- Private vehicle for the full scheduled circuit
- Licensed local guide
- Listed monastery and cultural admissions
- Guided Tiger's Nest excursion
- Adult Indian SDF of INR 8,400
- Entry permit assistance
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners
- Optional baths and additional activities
- Tips and personal expenses
- Indian TCS where applicable
Where you stay
Stay two nights in Thimphu, two in Punakha, one in Gangtey and two in Paro. Hotels are comparable 3-star, with a simpler lodge possible in Gangtey and heating varying between properties.
Group departures
Pick a departure option
Dates are shared on call or WhatsApp once you enquire, so you get the most current availability and pricing.
From travellers
Reviews
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Before you book
Questions travellers ask
Do Indian travellers need a visa?
You do not need a visa as an Indian traveller, but you do need an entry permit. Carry eligible identity documents and appropriate paperwork for children; permit assistance is included.
When is Gangtey best visited?
Choose spring or autumn for valley walks. Black-necked cranes generally visit from approximately November to March, though sightings vary. Winter roads can be disrupted by snow.
Are cards accepted throughout the route?
Carry small-denomination Indian rupees or ngultrum, especially for Gangtey and roadside purchases. Cards are accepted only at selected places, so keep cash handy along the route.
What is covered in the land price?
Your land price includes seven nights, breakfasts, scheduled private transport, guiding, listed admissions and INR 8,400 adult Indian SDF. Budget separately for flights, other meals and optional experiences.
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