Bhutan Tour Including Haa Valley
This 7-day cultural tour through Bhutan takes you on an enriching journey across stunning landscapes and sacred landmarks, beginning with your arrival in Paro, where you’ll be welcomed with views of the Himalayas and visits to historical sites like Ta Dzong and Rinpung Dzong. The itinerary continues to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, offering immersive experiences at museums, craft schools, local markets, and the towering Buddha Dordenma. From there, you’ll travel over the scenic Dochula Pass to Punakha and Wangdue, visiting the majestic Punakha Dzong and crossing Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. A hike to the sacred Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten offers panoramic valley views. The journey continues through the tranquil Haa Valley, where you’ll explore traditional villages before returning to Paro via the spectacular Chele La Pass. A highlight of the trip is the hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside, followed by a visit to the serene 7th-century Kichu Temple. The tour concludes with your departure from Paro. The package includes transportation, accommodation, meals, entry fees, a Bhutanese guide, and round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Paro.
Itinerary
Arrive in Bhutan via Druk Air, the country’s national carrier, and take in breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks on your flight. As the plane descends into Paro Valley, you’ll be treated to the sight of scattered farmhouses nestled on the hillsides and the majestic Paro Dzong overlooking the river. Perched above, you'll also spot Ta Dzong, a former watchtower now serving as the National Museum.
Once you arrive, your guide from Access Bhutan Tours & Treks will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. After some time to settle in, embark on a journey to visit:
- Ta Dzong: A historical watchtower, now a museum showcasing Bhutanese art and relics.
- Rinpung Dzong: A fortress from 1645 that now serves as both an administrative hub and a monastery.
- Rinpung Bridge: A traditional wooden bridge, one of the oldest of its kind in Bhutan.
End the day with a relaxed stroll around Paro town, enjoying local shops and the peaceful ambiance.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Travel Distance: 54 km | Duration: 1 hour
After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey to Thimphu, passing by lush rice fields and the scenic Paro Airport. Before you reach the capital, visit Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers converge, marked by three chortens, thought to bring spiritual protection.
Next, explore the historical Tachogang Lhakhang, a private temple founded by Thangthong Gyalpo, renowned for building Bhutan's iconic iron bridges.
Upon arrival in Thimphu, check into your hotel. Your day of sightseeing will include:
- National Library: A repository of ancient Buddhist scriptures.
- Institute of Traditional Medicine: A place where traditional herbal medicines are prepared.
- Institute for Zorig Chusum: Bhutan’s premier school for the 13 traditional arts.
- Folk Heritage Museum: A glimpse into rural Bhutanese life.
- Textile Museum: Discover the rich tradition of Bhutanese weaving.
- Centenary Farmers Market: A lively spot for fresh, local produce (open Thursday to Sunday).
- Takin Preserve: Visit the home of Bhutan’s rare national animal, the takin.
- Craft Bazaar: A hub for handmade goods from local artisans.
- Kuensel Phodrang: Enjoy a scenic hike to an excellent viewpoint over Thimphu.
- Buddha Point: Visit the massive Buddha statue and enjoy sweeping views of the valley below.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Travel Distance: 71 km | Duration: 2.5 hours
Today’s journey will take you to Punakha. On the way, stop at Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in Bhutan. Continue your drive, which takes you through forests and apple orchards, before reaching Dochula Pass (3050m), a place that offers panoramic Himalayan views and 108 chortens dedicated to those who fell in battle.
After descending through rhododendron forests, you’ll arrive in Punakha. Visit the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong, located at the junction of the Pho and Mo Chu rivers. This grand structure, built in 1637, holds historical and religious significance for Bhutan.
Don't miss the opportunity to walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge (200 meters), providing fantastic views of the valley.
Overnight stay in Punakha/Wangdue.
Travel Distance: 71 km | Duration: 2.5 hours
Start the day with a scenic drive through the upper Punakha Valley. Hike up to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten in Yebisa village, a stunning chorten offering panoramic views of the valley below.
In the afternoon, return to Thimphu for your overnight stay.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Thimphu to Haa: 108 km | Duration: 3 hours
Haa to Paro: 65 km | Duration: 1.5 hours
Drive through charming villages like Dogakha, Susuna, and Jabana, and get an insight into rural Bhutanese life. Reach Haa Valley for a taste of Bhutan’s traditional lifestyle, then continue your journey via Chelela Pass (3810m), where you can take in incredible views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Today is the day for the legendary hike to Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. The hike to the viewpoint takes around 2 hours, where you can rest at a café and enjoy the breathtaking view of the monastery perched on the cliff. For those ready for more, it’s another 1.5 hours to reach the monastery itself.
The site is significant as it’s believed to be the place where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century after flying on a tigress. After exploring the monastery, relax at the café before heading back to the base.
On your way back, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century.
Spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight stay in Paro.
After breakfast, your guide will take you to Paro Airport for your return flight to Delhi or your next destination.