Bhutan Unveiled -A Cultural Tour- 9 Days

Trip Facts

Duration 09 Days
Max. Altitude: 4,130m
Group size 2-14 pax persons
Best Season Feb, Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov, Dec
Trip Mode Hotels & Resorts
Activity Tour
DIFFICULTY Moderate
LOCATION Bhutan
Start/End Kathmandu, Nepal

Overview

The Bhutan Unveiled – A Cultural Tour – 9 Days offers a remarkable journey into the heart of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage, traditional lifestyle, and pristine natural beauty. This immersive cultural tour takes you across iconic cities such as Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, where ancient monasteries, vibrant festivals, and centuries-old fortresses reveal the deep-rooted traditions of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Throughout the journey, travelers experience Bhutan’s harmonious blend of culture and nature as they explore sacred temples, walk through serene valleys, visit rural villages, and witness the country’s unique Gross National Happiness philosophy in practice. With scenic drives, guided sightseeing, and meaningful cultural encounters, this 9-day tour provides an ideal introduction to Bhutan’s timeless charm and spiritual richness.

The journey unfolds through scenic valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages, offering a closer look at Bhutan’s rich customs, ancient myths, and architectural wonders. As you explore sacred monasteries, vibrant markets, royal heritage sites, and serene natural viewpoints, each moment reveals a new layer of Bhutan’s cultural depth. The tour also provides opportunities to enjoy Bhutanese cuisine, observe local festivals when available, and learn about the country’s unique philosophy centered on happiness and wellbeing. Blending cultural exploration with peaceful landscapes, this tour delivers a refreshing and authentic experience of Bhutan that leaves travelers inspired and connected to its timeless Himalayan spirit.

Best spring options (March–April 2026)

March 2026

  • Sun 08 Mar – Mon 16 Mar 2026 (Fly KTM→Paro Day 3: Tue 10 Mar)
  • Tue 10 Mar – Wed 18 Mar 2026 (Fly Day 3: Thu 12 Mar)
  • Thu 12 Mar – Fri 20 Mar 2026 (Fly Day 3: Sat 14 Mar)
  • Sun 15 Mar – Mon 23 Mar 2026 (Fly Day 3: Tue 17 Mar)

April 2026 (best month)

  • Sun 05 Apr – Mon 13 Apr 2026 (Fly Day 3: Tue 07 Apr)
  • Tue 07 Apr – Wed 15 Apr 2026 (Fly Day 3: Thu 09 Apr)
  • Thu 09 Apr – Fri 17 Apr 2026 (Fly Day 3: Sat 11 Apr)
  • Sun 12 Apr – Mon 20 Apr 2026 (Fly Day 3: Tue 14 Apr)
  • Thu 16 Apr – Fri 24 Apr 2026 (Fly Day 3: Sat 18 Apr)

Best autumn options (October 2026)

  • Sun 04 Oct – Mon 12 Oct 2026 (Fly Day 3: Tue 06 Oct)
  • Tue 06 Oct – Wed 14 Oct 2026 (Fly Day 3: Thu 08 Oct)
  • Thu 08 Oct – Fri 16 Oct 2026 (Fly Day 3: Sat 10 Oct)
  • Tue 13 Oct – Wed 21 Oct 2026 (Fly Day 3: Thu 15 Oct)
  • Thu 15 Oct – Fri 23 Oct 2026 (Fly Day 3: Sat 17 Oct)

Itinenary Note

Our representative will pick you up at Kathmandu International Airport and drive you to your hotel. Depending upon what time you arrive, you can enjoy a full day at leisure and go on a welcome dinner with the KEEP WALKING FAMILY.

You will embark on a guided tour of two UNESCO world heritage sites; Pashupatinath Temple, the temple devoted to Lord Shiva – the god of creation and destruction, and Boudhanath Stupa – a Buddhist shrine worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists alike.

In the afternoon, your trek guide will brief you about the upcoming days and preparation requirements.

 

 

Accommodation Overnight at Hotel
Meal Breakfast

On the flight to Paro, from Kathmandu, a spectacular view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jhumolhari and Mount Jitchu Drake in Bhutan can be seen. The flight to international airport in Paro is most spectacular and thrilling as one approaches the tiny airstrip through the Bhutanese foothills and the breath-taking landing.

On arrival in Paro, after completion of airport formalities, our guide will be there to receive you and escort to hotel by our private vehicle. Begin your Bhutan journey by arriving in Thimphu, the capital city. After settling into your hotel, take some time to explore the city’s main street and visit the Clock Tower Square. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting handicraft shops and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the city

Start your day with a visit to the towering Buddha Dordenma statue, followed by a visit to Memorial Chorten, where locals gather to pray. Then, explore Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and a striking example of Bhutanese architecture. In the afternoon, delve into Bhutanese history at the Folk Heritage Museum and the National Library. Conclude your day with some free time in the city.

Drive to Punakha, a journey that takes you through the scenic Dochula Pass, where you can stop to admire the 108 Chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayas. On the way, visit Chimi Lhakhang, popularly known as the Fertility Temple, believed to bless couples seeking children. Upon arriving in Punakha, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of two rivers. After exploring the dzong, take a walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, then spend the evening at leisure.

Travel to the serene Gangtey Valley, home to the Gangtey Gomba, a significant Buddhist monastery. Spend the afternoon exploring the Phobjikha Valley, known for its natural beauty and as the winter habitat of the endangered black-necked cranes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you relax in the valley.

After a leisurely morning in Gangtey, with an option to visit local villages or take a nature walk, embark on the drive to Paro, which takes approximately five hours. Upon arrival in Paro, relax at your hotel and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Spend the day exploring Paro, beginning with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery), perched on a cliffside with stunning views. After the hike, visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery, and the National Museum, which offers insights into Bhutanese culture and history. End your day by exploring Paro town and enjoying a traditional Bhutanese dinner.

On your final day, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples. Spend the rest of the morning exploring Paro or shopping for souvenirs. In the afternoon, prepare for your departure, carrying with you the unforgettable experiences of your time in Bhutan.

Itinenary Note

This is a tentative itinerary, and some monuments may be closed on certain days. However, we will make every effort to ensure that most of the listed heritage sites are covered.

Fixed Departure

Start Finish Availability Price
Sunday 04/10/2026 Friday 12/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 11/10/2026 Friday 19/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 18/10/2026 Friday 26/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now

Cost Includes

  • 2 nights in Kathmandu hotel Tibet with BB and wel come dinner
  • Half day sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Kathmandu to bhutan airfare
  • All arrival and departure
  • Private guided tour
  • Visa processing and issuance of Bhutan visa clearance letter
  • Airport transfers in Bhutan (arrival & departure)
  • Daily meals (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) at designated restaurants or hotels
  • Twin-sharing accommodation in government-approved 3-star hotels as per government regulations. For a single room supplement of USD 30 applies
  • Services of a qualified and licensed English-speaking guide
  • An experienced driver
  • Comfortable tour vehicle (SUV/van/coach based on group size)
  • Entry fees & road permits
  • Government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – USD 100 per night
  • One-time, non-refundable visa application fee of USD 40 per person (mandatory immigration charge).
  • Assistance with flight ticket booking for the Bhutan sector, if required
  • Bottled mineral water in the vehicle

Cost Excludes

  • Meals at premium (4–5 star) restaurants outside the package
  • Hotel stays outside Bhutan (pre- or post-trip)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, shopping, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (guests must have their own, or it can be arranged on request)
  • Tips and gratuities for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
  • Alcoholic beverages and special dietary items
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g., hot stone bath, cultural shows)

Equipment

Here is a list of what you might want to pack for the hike. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter. We provide a 75 liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. Also, you can rent sleeping bag and down jacket with us at the additional fee of USD 35 for each once you are in Kathmandu.

  General

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Welcome or fare well dinner in kathmandu.
  • 4 Seasons Sleeping Bag
  • Extra Batteries/Power Bank
  • Charger for Devices
  • Travel Adapter

  Body

  • Sun Hat or Scarf, Sunglasses, Headband
  • Light Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
  • Hiking Boots & Camp Shoes
  • Hiking pants & Fleece Pants
  • Wool Socks & Lightweight Inner Socks
  • Thermal Tops & T-Shirts
  • Gloves or Mittens

  Accessories

  • Headlamp & Water Bottles
  • First Aid Kit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Toiletries
  • Lip Balm & Earplugs
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags

  Other Essentials

  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
  • Towel with Personal Care Kit
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls)
  • Maps and Trail Guides
  • Camera with Extra Memory Cards
  • Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes

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