This compact yet unforgettable 5-day itinerary is a fusion of Bhutan’s rich cultural tapestry and one of its most scenic short treks—the Bumdra Trek in Paro. In just two days of trekking, you’ll experience panoramic Himalayan views, high mountain camps, and an extraordinary descent into the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Complemented with a 3-day cultural exploration of Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha, this tour offers the best of Bhutan in a short duration.
Tour Highlight
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Hike through pristine pine forests to the cliffside Bumdra Monastery Camp (~3,800m)
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Trek ends with descent to the legendary Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery)
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Visit Bhutan’s iconic landmarks: Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, Thimphu’s Memorial Chorten, and more
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Scenic drives through the Himalayas, rice terraces, rivers, and alpine forests
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Ideal for travelers who want light adventure and cultural immersion in a short trip
Duration and time to visit
5 Days / 4 Nights (2-day trek + 3-day cultural tour)
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Spring: March to May (rhododendrons and wildflowers)
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Autumn: September to November (clear skies and mountain views)
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Moderate: The Bumdra Trek requires a good fitness level but no prior trekking experience. Altitude gain is gradual, and the route is safe and well-guided.
What is included
✔️ Bhutan visa and SDF
✔️ All government taxes, entry fees, and permits
✔️ All ground transportation in Bhutan
✔️ 3-star accommodation in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha
✔️ Luxury camping gear during the trek (tents, mats, sleeping bags)
✔️ Licensed English-speaking guide throughout
✔️ Pack ponies for trekking gear
✔️ All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✔️ Airport pick-up and drop-off
✔️ Bottled water throughout the tour
What is not included
❌ International flights
❌ Personal hiking gear (shoes, poles, clothing)
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Alcoholic drinks, snacks, and laundry
❌ Tips and gratuities (optional)
Day to day itienaries
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu
Distance: 55 km | Drive Time: 1.5–2 hrs | Altitude: ~2,320m
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Upon arrival, meet your guide and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.
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En route, stop at Tamchog Lhakhang and iron chain bridge.
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Visit Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong (if time permits).
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Explore local markets or visit the Textile Museum.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu – Punakha Sightseeing – Return to Paro
Distance: 145 km (round trip) | Drive Time: ~5 hrs
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Drive over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100m), with panoramic Himalayan views.
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Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu.
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Walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple of the Divine Madman.
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Return to Paro in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 3: Bumdra Trek Begins – Paro to Bumdra Camp
Distance: 6–7 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 3,800m
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Drive to Sang Choekhor Monastery (~2,800m) and start your trek.
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Ascend through pine and rhododendron forests with prayer flags and scenic rest stops.
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Reach Bumdra Monastery, perched in the clouds with stunning 180° views.
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Relax at camp; optional visit to meditation caves nearby.
Overnight: Camping at Bumdra (fully catered)
Day 4: Bumdra – Descent to Tiger’s Nest – Return to Paro
Distance: ~6 km downhill | Trek Time: 3–4 hrs
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Enjoy sunrise views, then begin your descent through fir forests.
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Visit Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)—Bhutan’s most iconic landmark.
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After the hike, descend further to the base and drive back to Paro town.
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Optional hot stone bath or traditional dinner.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Day 5: Departure from Paro
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After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport.
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Your guide will bid you farewell with a traditional scarf and heartfelt wishes.
Optional upgrades
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Upgrade to 4 or 5-star hotels (Como Uma, Zhiwa Ling, Six Senses)
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Add 1–2 days in Haa Valley or Phobjikha (Black-necked crane winter habitat)
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Private yoga/meditation session at Bumdra Camp
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Traditional hot stone bath and cultural show in Paro
