Bhutan: 9 Day All Inclusive Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan Tour

Traveling to Bhutan often feels like stepping into a fairy tale—pristine landscapes, centuries-old monasteries, and a peaceful way of life that’s hard to find elsewhere. This 9-day tour, offered by Maebar Travel, promises to take you through some of Bhutan’s most iconic sights while giving a genuine taste of its culture and natural beauty.

What we love about this experience is how it balances guided exploration with moments of personal discovery, all wrapped up in a thoughtfully planned itinerary. From visiting ancient temples to scenic mountain passes, every day offers something meaningful. Plus, the inclusive nature of the tour means you won’t need to worry about additional costs or logistics, making it great value.

One consideration is that the journey involves quite a bit of travel (around 7-8 hours on some days), which could be tiring if you prefer slow-paced vacations. However, the scenic routes and cultural stops make it worthwhile for those eager to maximize their time in Bhutan.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that covers the highlights of Bhutan with knowledgeable guides and authentic encounters. It’s ideal for cultural explorers, natural beauty lovers, and those curious about Bhutan’s unique way of life.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, accommodations, transport, and entrance fees are covered, simplifying your trip.
• Cultural Depth: Visit historic temples, dzongs, and meet local monks and villagers.
• Natural Wonders: Scenic drives through mountains, valleys, and forests with opportunities for hikes and photography.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of Bhutan’s traditions and history.
• Authentic Experiences: Blessings at ancient temples and visits to local markets offer genuine cultural insight.
• Value for Money: At $3,282 per person, it combines comfort, convenience, and comprehensive sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Paro and Thimphu

Your journey begins at Paro International Airport, a fitting gateway into Bhutan’s enchanted landscape. The initial part of the tour includes a visit to Kichu Lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king—an early glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. The guide will share stories about the temple’s significance, making it more meaningful than just another sightseeing stop.

Next, you’ll visit the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that once served as a defense and now houses government offices and monks. Then, at Ta Dzong, a converted watchtower turned museum, you’ll learn about Bhutan’s history and culture through engaging exhibits.

The day concludes in Thimphu, the capital, located at 2,320 meters altitude. The city blends modern life with tradition, and your hotel will serve as a comfortable base for the days ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Punakha & Wangdue

The drive from Thimphu to Punakha covers approximately 78 km, but the journey takes around 3 hours thanks to the winding mountain roads. The highlight is the Dochula Pass at 3,150 meters, where you’ll see an array of 108 stupas and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks—an ideal spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection.

Descending into Punakha, you’ll visit the Punakha Dzong, often called the “Palace of Great Happiness.” Its riverside setting and intricate architecture make it one of Bhutan’s most beautiful dzongs. Crossing the suspension bridge over Phochu River leads to Gidagom Village, where you can walk among traditional houses and farms, experiencing local life up close.

Day 3: Trongsa & Bumthang – A Day of Vast Landscapes

This long drive, approximately 7-8 hours covering 197 km, takes you through some of Bhutan’s most stunning scenery. The journey includes stops at Chendebjichorten, a large white stupa, and Trongsa Dzong, perched on a hillside with stunning views of the valley below. From Tangsibji, you can see the entire dzong and appreciate its strategic location historically.

Crossing Yotong La Pass at 3,425 meters offers breathtaking mountain vistas. In Chumey Valley, visit the Yathra Weaving Centre, where local artisans craft traditional textiles, a great chance to see Bhutanese craftsmanship firsthand. You’ll sleep in Bumthang, a region famed for its spiritual sites and pastoral charm.

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Day 4: Spiritual Sights and Ancient Monasteries in Bumthang

Today centers around Jakar Dzong, one of Bhutan’s largest, with its commanding presence. You’ll explore historic monasteries like Jambay Lhakhang, built in the 7th century, and Kurjey Lhakhang, a site of spiritual importance.

The hike to Menbar Tsho, known as the Burning Lake, offers a peaceful walk surrounded by nature and a chance to reflect. Visiting Wangdichholing Palace gives insight into Bhutan’s monarchy roots—an authentic glimpse into the country’s royal history.

Day 5: The Crane Sanctuary and Kewa Village

In Gangtey, you’ll enjoy a gentle nature hike through pine forests to Kewa Village, discovering traditional Bhutanese rural life. The Crane Information Centre is a highlight—the endangered black-necked cranes winter here, making this a special birdwatching spot in winter.

Day 6: From the Valley to Thimphu

The drive back to Thimphu covers about 142 km (4-5 hours). Highlights include the Buddha Dordenma Statue, one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in the world, offering sweeping views of the city, and the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of Bhutan’s third king. The evening allows some free time to explore or relax.

Day 7: Thimphu’s Cultural Gems

This day is dedicated to exploring Thimphu’s unique attractions. The Mothithang Takin Preserve is home to Bhutan’s iconic national animal, the Takin—a creature that looks like a mix between a goat and a cow. A hike to Wangditse Goemba offers scenic views and spiritual insights, with plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos.

The General Post Office allows you to design personalized postage stamps—an unusual souvenir. The Farmers Weekend Market is perfect for sampling organic fruits and nuts, and soaking up local life.

Day 8: The Iconic Tiger’s Nest

No trip to Bhutan is complete without visiting Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliffside. You’ll hike up to the monastery, with options for a casual walk or a more vigorous trek, depending on your fitness. Enjoy lunch at a hillside café overlooking the monastery before returning to Paro.

In the evening, a special Bhutanese farewell dinner is arranged at a village home, complete with local liquor Ara and a hot stone bath, offering a warm goodbye to this mystical land.

Day 9: Departure from Paro

Your Bhutan adventure concludes with a flight from Paro Airport. Your guide and driver will see you off, bringing memories of a country that combines ancient traditions with breathtaking landscapes.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $3,282 per person, this tour includes everything you need for a seamless experience—hotels, meals, transport, entrance fees, and guides. With accommodations in approved 3-star hotels, you’ll enjoy comfort without sacrificing authenticity. The full-board meals mean you can focus on enjoying local flavors without extra hassle or expense.

The expert guides, like Federico mentions, make a real difference. Their insights turn sightseeing into stories, and their local knowledge ensures you get an authentic view of Bhutan’s culture and history. The tour’s structure balances sightseeing with culture, giving you plenty of opportunities to participate in local rituals, like blessings at ancient temples, which adds depth to your visit.

The journey also emphasizes natural beauty—scenic drives through mountain passes and opportunities for hikes—so nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy. With a mix of spiritual sites, historic monuments, and rural landscapes, the tour paints a comprehensive picture of Bhutan.

Practical Considerations

While the long drives are inevitable given Bhutan’s mountainous terrain, the scenery makes it worthwhile. The tour’s pace is reasonably full, but the experienced guide ensures you’ll be well cared for. If you’re less mobile, some hikes can be optional, and you can choose to relax at scenic spots.

The inclusion of a visa, government fees, and taxes simplifies the planning process. However, travelers will need to arrange their international flights and travel insurance separately. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those eager to see the best of Bhutan without the stress of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect for cultural explorers interested in temples, monasteries, and local traditions. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drives and hikes, especially around Bumthang and Gangtey.

Travelers who value guided insights and want authentic encounters will find this tour rewarding. It also offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and personal reflection amid stunning landscapes and spiritual sites.

However, those seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced vacation with minimal travel days might find the itinerary a bit packed. Nonetheless, for most, it strikes a good balance between discovery and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, this guided group tour welcomes solo travelers. It’s a good way to meet like-minded people and enjoy Bhutan’s sights with expert guidance.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, all hotels are approved by the Department of Tourism and are at least 3-star, ensuring a decent level of comfort and amenities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers visa, accommodation, full-board meals, ground transportation, entrance fees, guides, and taxes. It does not include international flights or personal expenses.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is set, but you might find some flexibility with optional hikes and free time in Thimphu or Paro.

Are there any cultural restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, respect local customs—such as dressing modestly in temples (no shorts or sleeveless shirts)—and avoid smoking in public places.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While not specified directly, Bhutan’s best seasons are typically spring and fall, when weather is mild and scenic views are at their best.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Bhutan tour offers a compelling mix of culture, natural beauty, and hassle-free planning, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic experience. With comprehensive inclusions and knowledgeable guides, it provides real value and a chance to connect deeply with Bhutan’s unique spirit.

For those eager to explore the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” in comfort and confidence, this tour delivers a memorable journey through one of the world’s most enchanting countries. Whether you’re captivated by sacred temples, scenic mountain passes, or warm local encounters, this trip promises a meaningful adventure.

In essence, it’s a well-rounded option for anyone looking to see the highlights of Bhutan without the stress of logistics—perfect for cultural lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: