Compare Wonders of Bhutan by G Adventures vs Classic Tibet Nepal Bhutan Tour by Great Tibet Tour

Day 1 Paro/Thimphu

Arrive at any time and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Time permitting, take a guided walk around town.

In clear weather, the flight over the Himalayas offers magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks as they give way to the lush green Paro valley. The first gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step off the plane. After clearing customs and visa control, an arrival transfer will take you to Thimphu, where we'll be met by our local CEO who will conduct a welcome meeting and orientation.

Approximate Altitude: Paro 2,300m

Day 2 THIMPHU/PUNAKHA

This morning, meet a Buddhist monk and scholar to discuss Buddhist beliefs and ways of life in Bhutan. Then drive to scenic Punakha, crossing the lofty Dochu La pass and enjoying stunning views of the Himalaya through flickering prayer flags. Settle into your hotel and drive to Lobesa after lunch. From here, hike up to Chimi Lhakhang, a 15th-century monastery dedicated to the Buddhist saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman.” Learn about his colourful, eccentric life, and witness women devotees who visit the monastery to receive blessings of fertility.

After breakfast, drive through dense forests of blue pine, oak, and rhododendrons and enjoy views of the Himalayan range and the valley beyond. After a lunch stop, the road climbs steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass at 3,050m (10,007 ft). After stopping here for tea and panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, we descend along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha.

Approx. Altitude: Punakha Valley 1,300m

Day 3 PUNAKHA

Enjoy a full day of exploration in Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, or fortress, situated at the confluence of two important rivers. Drive to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery, a meditation and training center for Buddhist nuns. Then drive to Wangdue Phodrang to discover the town’s dzong. In the afternoon, weave your way through rice terraces and pine forests to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a cheerful temple perched on a picturesque mountain ridge overlooking the Punakha Valley.

Day 4 PUNAKHA/GANGTEY

Travel to the Gangtey Valley—also called Phobjikha Valley—the winter habitat of rare black-necked cranes. If your trip falls between October and February, you’ll have a chance to visit the information center of the Royal So­ciety for Protection of Nature (RSPN) to learn about these graceful, vulnerable birds, which migrate from Tibet to Bhutan every year.

Approx. Altitude: Gangtey Valley 2,900m

Day 5 GANGTEY

Set out to discover the stunning Gangtey Goempa, one of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan. This 17th-century temple recently underwent an elaborate renovation. Afterward, we’ll walk across Phobjikha Valley to Khewa Valley, stopping at an old temple on the way to make an offering. This evening, explore Khewa village and enjoy a cooking demonstration and delicious home-cooked dinner at a family farmhouse.

Day 6 GANGTEY/THIMPHU

Return to Thimpu and take in the golden splendour of the Buddha Dordenma, a massive Buddha statue that graces a hill overlooking the city. Visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, an arts and crafts school where we can watch students practicing traditional arts such as woodworking, painting, and ceramics. Later, enjoy a talk on Gross National Happiness, an index used by the Bhutanese to measure the nation’s progress.

Please note that on occasion the Institute for Zorig Chusum art school is closed due to school breaks and holidays. If it is not open on the day of your visit, another activity will be arranged.

Approx. Altitude: Thimpu 2,300m

Day 7 THIMPHU/HAA

This morning, visit the National Memorial Chorten, one of Thimpu’s most recognizable landmarks and a focal point of daily spiritual life. Then venture off the beaten path towards the remote Haa Valley, stopping for a night in charming Haa town. Explore Lhakhang Nagpo, the “black temple,” and Lhakhang Karpo, the “white temple”—two ancient Buddhist shrines which are said to be among the 108 temples built in one day by the seventh century Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.

Approx. Altitude: Haa Valley 2,600m

Day 8 HAA/PARO

Drive into picturesque Haa Valley by way of the dramatic Chele La pass, one of the highest mountain roads in Bhutan. Hike through thick pine forests to the Kila nunnery, which clings to a rocky cliff. Later, return to Paro and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful temples. Then head to a local archery ground to watch locals practice Bhutan’s national sport.

Approx. Altitude: Paro 701m (2,300 ft)

Day 9 Paro

Today, we embark on a vigorous hike to Bhutan’s most iconic and revered site: the Taktsang Lhakhang or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high above the Paro Valley. Visible from afar, this architectural masterpiece straddles a vertical granite cliff 2,000 feet above the valley floor. Later, drive the winding road to Drukgyal Dzong, a ruined fortress that once defended Paro Valley from Tibetan invasions.

Due to the altitude, this climb can be tough. Be prepared to spend about 5 1/2 hours to get up and down with stops, including lunch. Remember to stay hydrated and take your time. The hike is gradually uphill and takes about 2 hrs to reach the first stop at the cafeteria, where you can enjoy views of the monastery. If you choose, you can stop here and wait for the group who choose to continue up to the Monastery.

Day 10 Paro

Depart at any time. Airport transfer is included.

Day 1: Arrival In Lhasa (3680m)

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Lhasa, 3 star /4 star

Our staff will greet you at Lhasa Airport/Railway to transfer you to the hotel. From Lhasa Airport to downtown Lhasa, it usually takes about one hour; from Lhasa Railway Station, about 20mins. After transferred to hotel, the rest of the day you will be free to wander around the city on your own but try not to overtax yourself. The first day's well-rest is crucial to acclimatize high altitude. Remember to drink lots of water, eat light, and not to shower if you can help it.

Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Lhasa, 3 star /4 star

Attraction: Drepung Monastery  Sera Monastery

Our guide and driver will pick you up at the hotel in the early morning and then drive to visit the Drepung Monastery which is located at the foot of the Mountain Gambo Utse, 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the western suburb of Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery is known as the most important monastery of Gelugpa in Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in 1416 by Jamyang choge, one of the Tsongkhapa’s main disciples.

After lunch, you are going to visit the Sera Monastery which is located at the foot of Tatipu Hill in the northern suburb of Lhasa City; Sera Monastery is one of three famous monasteries in the city along with the Drepung Monastery and the Ganden Monastery. One of the main attractions of Sera Monastery is debating. As a part of their study, lamas must participate in debates to further their comprehension and proceed to more advanced levels of study. The debating usually is held at around 3 - 5 in the afternoon except for Sunday.

Drepung Monastery was the largest monastery in Tibet, with over 10,000 monks. Now, this monastery houses about 700 monks.Sera Monastery has a rich collection of cultural relics

Day 3: Lhasa Sightseeing

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Lhasa, 3 star /4 star

Attraction: Potala Palace  Jokhang Temple  Barkhor Street

Today's tour will begin to visit the famous world heritage Potala Palace. It’s situated on the Red Hill of central Lhasa; Potala Palace is the highest ancient palace in the world, reaching 3,767.19m (12,359.55ft) at the topmost point. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

In the afternoon, take an easy visit to Jokhang Temple in the center of the Old Lhasa city. Jokhang temple is the most sacred temple in all over Tibet and it is always bustling with earnest local pilgrims. After you visit the temple you have time to walk around the Barkhor street which is the one of the most devotional circuit as well as the crowded central market of Lhasa since from a long time, in the early days it is the most famous local market but now it is changed to the tourist gift shopping centre.

The original Potala Palace was built by the King Songtsan Gampo for his bride in 637 AD, and it was rebuilt by the fifth Dalai Lama.khang Temple has a beautiful golden roof, which will attract you when you get close to it. The golden roof of Jokhang Template. Ancient wooden beams and rafters can be found under the roof.

Day 4: Lhasa- Gyantse(4040m)- Shigatse(3840m), 360km, Approx 6hrs

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Lhasa, 3 star /4 star

Attraction: Yamdroktso Lake  Karola Glacier  Pelkor Chöde Monastery

We will pass by Kampala pass (4794m) on the way from Lhasa to Shigatse and visit Yamdrok Lake. Covering 638Km², Yamdrok Lake is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.

Later we will pass and enjoy the Karola Glacier on the roadside. It is about 300m from the main highway with easy access on your way to Gyantse.

Then visit the main monastery in Gyantse - Pelkor Chode Monastery. Pelkhor Choede in Gyantse town is located about 230km to the south of Lhasa and 100kmto east of Shigatse. The monastery is a short walk from the heart of the town.

See a flock of sheep and local herdsman along the lakeshore.The white glacier looks spectacular for visitors passing by.

Day 5: Shigatse - Tingri - EBC(5100m), 350km, Approx 7hrs

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Rongbuk guesthouse or Nomad Tent, (Dorm Bed)

Attraction: Tashilhunpo Monastery  Rongbuk Monastery

In the morning, we will visit the home of Panchan Lama - Tashilunpo Monastery and then drive to Lhatse, a small town located 150 km from Shigatse, and you may have lunch in local restaurant. After a short rest, you will go ahead to Tingri. You will pass Tsola Pass(4600M), and Gyatsola Pass(5248M). In the late afternoon, you enter Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve. You can enjoy the panorama of Himalaya at Gawula Pass (5198m).Then we drive along the New zigzag road to Rongpuk or the Tent Camp to stay overnight. If the weather is good, you can have a clear view of the sunset of golden Everest peak.

If it’s summertime (usually May~Oct), we will carry on the last few kilometers to Everest Tent Camp to stay the night; if winter time (usually Nov~Apr), we will stay at Rongbuk Monastery’s guesthouse. Both places have but only dorm bed lodging available. Both places you can see the glorious Everest sunset if the weather is good.

Tashilhunpo Monaster was founded by the First Dailai Lama in 1447Rongbuk Monastery is a monastery of Nyingmapa. It is founded by Ngawang Tenzin Norbu in 1902, distinctively housing both monks and nuns.

Day 6: EBC – Gyirong Border 370km, Approx. 8hrs

Attraction: Everest Base Camp

We didn’t include breakfast this morning. You will understand why when you’re at the spot. Tibetan breakfast, such as noodle, zanba, etc. abt CNY 30 is available here. You are highly suggested to bring along some cookies, instant coffee. etc. of your own. You can get up early and enjoy the sunrise of Everest Peak at lodging area if the weather is good. And then, we can drive you to the Everest Base Camp. After sightseeing, we will drive to Gyirong, the border which connects Tibet & Nepal. On the way, tourists can enjoy breathtaking vista of Mt. Shishapangma and the Pekutso Lake. After passing the Ghungtang Lhamo(5236M), we will arrive in Gyirong in late afternoon.

Stay overnight in guesthouse

The best time to travel to Mt. Everest would be May, June, Sep and early Oct. EBC is relatively less windy and clear.Since there is a very simple post office at EBC, you can send postcards  from this highest place to your families, your friends, and even to yourself.

Day 7: Gyirong To Nepal Border / Transfer To Kathmandu

Meals: Breakfast

In the morning, Your guide will take you to the border of Nepal and our guide from Nepal will meet you on the other side. Then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the day is yours to look around the area, or just rest in your hotel after the rigorous trip across Tibet.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu

Day 8: Day Tour In Kathmandu: Kathmandu City, Swayambhunath And Patan City

Meals: Breakfast

Today, we will explore the Kathmandu City. The guide will take you to visit the famous Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Royal Palace square in the city which is surrounded by ancient buildings from the early 16th century. The magnificent architecture, exquisite decorations, and the intensity of historical items give a great insight into Nepali culture.

After that, continue the tour to visit the Swayambhunath Pagoda which is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambhunath is a huge golden stupa festooned with prayer flags that flutter in the breeze, on a hill that overlooks the entire city. Then make your way to Patan City, the second largest city in the Kathmandu Valley area. Patan City has one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Nepal that dates back to the 12th century and is a great place to explore the Buddhist culture of Nepal.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a world heritage in Kathmandu.Swayambhunath Stupa

Attraction: Kathmandu Durbar Square  Swyambhunath Stupa

Day 9: Day Tour In Kathmandu: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath And Bhaktapur City

Attraction: Pashupatinath Temple  BoudhaNath Stupa

Today, we are going to visit the ancient Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Asia, and a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Set on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is one of Nepal’s famous UNESCO sites, and the sunset over the temple roofs is spectacular.Then head to Boudhanath, located on the ancient trade route. It is a place of meditation and part of the spiritual journey around Kathmandu. With one of the largest stupas in the world, it has been the site of many Tibetan prayers over the centuries.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Pashupatinath TempleThe Boudhanath Stupa, it's one of the is the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.

Day 10: Fly From Kathmandu To Paro International Airport /Transfer To Thimphu (2300m)

Today you will be taken to the airport, for the flight from Kathmandu to Paro, and you will get to see the breathtaking views of the Himalayas from the plane, including the sacred Mt. Jumolhari, known as the “bridge of Kanchenjunga”, and its companion mountain, Mt. Jichu Drake, in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide will transfer you to the hotel. You still have lots of time to wonder around the town of Paro. You could appreciate the famous Queen Mother’s Winter palace and get a view of the Dzong architectures.

The rest of the day is yours to stroll around the town or take a rest in the hotel.

Stay overnight in Paro.

Mt. Jumolhari in the background Mt. Jichu Drake

Attraction: Mt. Jumolhari  Mt. Jichu Drake

Day 11: Day Tour In Punakha Dzong / Drive Back To Paro (1460m)

In the morning you will be driven from Paro to Punakha, crossing the Dochu La Pass at 3,100 meters, where you will be able to see the 108 beautiful chortens. These chortens were commissioned to be built by Her Majesty, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the Queen Mother, and the first of the four wives of former king of Bhutan, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. In Punakha, you will get to visit the famous Punakha Dzong, which was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After visiting the dzong, you will drive back to Paro.

Perched above Paro Dzong, in Paro, is the ancient ta Dzong, or watchtower. It was built in 1649 to protect the undefended Dzong. And it was renovated into a National Museum in 1968. The unusual round building was built to be in the shape of a conch shell, with 2.5m-thick walls. The watchtower suffered damage in the 2011 earthquake but was reopened in 2016 as the nation's premier museum.

Stay overnight in Paro.

Phnakha Dzong, the exquisite Bhutan style architecture.

Attraction: Punakha Dzong

Day 12: Trek To Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) And Drive Back To Paro

Attraction: Taktsang Monastery

In the morning you will trek from the bottom of Paro Valley to the Taktsang Monastery, perched on the side of the mountain. Taktsang (commonly known as Tiger's Nest) is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan and one of the most challenging monasteries to get to. Located at an elevation of 3120 meters, Taktsang is the birthplace of Bhutanese Buddhism. Guru Rinpoche flew here from Tibet on the back of a tigress, which was the manifestation of his divine consort Yeshe Tsogyal.

You can ride a horse or walk to Tiger’s Nest. It is a challenging trek so you will gain merit with every step. The view from the Paro Valley to the monastery is worth your climb. The hike starts from a gentle forest with some prayer flags. After passing a creek and some water-powered prayer wheels, the trail starts getting steeper.

On the half way up the monastery, there is a nice teahouse with great views of Tiger's Nest that makes a welcome stopping point. You can get some tea and take a break here. You can continue climbing to the viewpoint, where you can overlook Tiger's Nest. The viewpoint is the best place to take photos of Taktsang. From here, you will walk down a series of steep stairs to a waterfall to achieve your final ascent to the entrance. Here you will be required to leave your backpacks, cameras, and phones.

After the trek up and down the mountain, you will head back to Paro.

Stay overnight in Paro.

Taktsang Monastery is the prominent Buddhist sacred spot in Bhutan.Taktsang Monastery is also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery.

Day 13: Departure From Paro

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport, and help you with checking in for your flight home from Bhutan.