Personalized trips to Bhutan
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

Introducing Bhutan

From the magic of the Himalayan mountains to the traditional Buddhist temples and culture, Bhutan is as enchanting as it is beautiful.

When is the best time to visit?
October to December offer clear skies, warmer weather, and is most travelers' preferred time to explore Bhutan. Learn more

Where to go in Bhutan?
Don’t expect to get by on a backpacker budget in Bhutan. It’s seemingly one of the most expensive places to travel thanks to a mandatory tariff of $250 a day (in U.S. dollars) for foreign visitors. Prospective travelers shouldn’t panic, however, since this fee covers accommodation, food, transport, and an official guide. With these expenses paid upfront, visitors can tour the impressive dzongs and monasteries, the forest-draped hills and canyons, and take in the local tsechus, or dance festivals without worrying about pinching pennies.

How many days do I need?
Seven days is the ideal amount of time to travel through Bhutan.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 12 days · 14 days

Bhutan Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
View of the Himalayas from Dochu La Pass
Map of Highlights of Bhutan - 5 Days
Highlights of Bhutan - 5 Days

The kingdom of Bhutan remains one of the last unspoiled gems of the Himalayas. Closed to foreign visitors until the 1970s, Bhutan's past and present are firmly grounded in traditional Buddhist culture. On this quick 5-day journey around the country, you'll visit quiet monasteries, explore ancient fortresses, and enjoy stunning views of the mountains as you hike through peaceful valleys.

Taktang Goenba, or Tiger's Nest
Map of Bhutan Highlights: Thimphu, Punakha & Paro - 6 Days
Bhutan Highlights: Thimphu, Punakha & Paro - 6 Days

Explore the most iconic highlights of Western Bhutan on this six-day itinerary. In the capital of Thimphu, you'll see how ancient traditions coexist with modernity and learn about Bhutanese architecture and history. Then, you'll drive across the spectacular Dochu La pass to the semi-tropical valley of Punakha, the former winter capital of the Kingdom. The tour ends at the emerald-green Paro Valley, where you'll hike up to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery—a quintessential Bhutanese experience.

Nature and Culture in Bhutan - 10 Days
Map of Nature and Culture in Bhutan - 10 Days
Nature and Culture in Bhutan - 10 Days

From the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery to the sleepy streets of Paro, visiting Bhutan is all about the simple pleasures of natural beauty and a distinctly preserved culture. Experience this long-isolated country's stunning mountains, colorful architecture, and lush countryside on this comprehensive 10-day tour.

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek - 12 Days
Map of Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek - 12 Days
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek - 12 Days

Trek through an area adorned with a multitude of pristine, crystal clear lakes, and Bhutanese villages. As you walk, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the entire Himalayan mountain range and some of the world’s highest peaks - including Mt. Everest, Jomolhari, Masang Gang, and many more.

Sunset on Dochu La Pass
Map of Bhutan Highlights - 7 Days
Bhutan Highlights - 7 Days

Explore the enigmatic kingdom of Bhutan on this exciting 7-day journey around the country's highlights. Visit historic fortresses, see one of the world's largest Buddha statues, hike through lush green valleys, enjoy views of soaring mountain peaks, and trek to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery. Along the way, you'll gain insight into Bhutan's fascinating history and culture.

A pair of cyclists traveling to Paro
Map of Bhutan Cycling Adventure - 15 Days
Bhutan Cycling Adventure - 15 Days

This Bhutan bike tour is an excellent combination of biking through Bhutan's stunning landscape. Experience the real Bhutanese countryside life and visit some cultural highlights as well. Biking is done mostly on good roads with very little traffic, but you'll take quiet roads as much as possible, and during the last days, you'll leave the main road and cycle on farm roads exclusively. You'll stay in decent hotels, sleep in traditional farmhouses, and camp in nature.

Make the Most of Your Time in Bhutan

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Buddhist monks at a festival in Bhutan
How Many Days to Spend in Bhutan

Whether you have five days or an entire month, you'll have an epic experience in Bhutan with a bit of planning. Five days is just long enough for a quick Himalayan trek or for...

Dramatic landscapes in the Paro Valley
Map of 1 Week in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Bhutan, many travelers choose a highlights tour that includes visits to monasteries and the opportunity to do some hiking in the mountains. If you're...

The Punakha Dzong Monastery
Map of 2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can cover a lot of ground with two weeks to spend in Bhutan. One popular itinerary option is a highlights tour that features visits to the Kingdom's most famous monasteries,...

Bhutan Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Bhutan Content

Buddhist monks at a festival in Bhutan
How Many Days to Spend in Bhutan

Whether you have five days or an entire month, you'll have an epic experience in Bhutan with a bit of planning. Five days is just long enough for a quick Himalayan trek or for exploring the major monasteries and other sites around Thimpu and adjacent valleys. With a week or longer, you can branch out to far-flung locales or enjoy an in-depth experience such as spending 10 days checking off species of birds on a birding itinerary. With two weeks or more, you can explore the full breadth of the country.

The Punakha Dzong Monastery
Map of 2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can cover a lot of ground with two weeks to spend in Bhutan. One popular itinerary option is a highlights tour that features visits to the Kingdom's most famous monasteries, temples, and high-altitude mountain passes, plus the chance to do some day hikes. If it's a more active adventure you're after, consider a 14-day cycling tour around the country or a hiking tour that includes the famous trek to Mount Jomolhari. It's also possible to combine some time in Bhutan with a trip to Nepal, getting a solid introduction to both countries' cultures and landscapes. Read on to learn more about your itinerary options.

Taktsang Goenba in the Paro Valley
Highlights of Bhutan: Thimphu, Punakha, Paro & More - 14 days

There's no place like Bhutan. Discover the kingdom's most spectacular landscapes and cultural sites on this two-week highlights tour that includes quiet forest hikes, visits to the country's oldest temples, an overnight stay in a traditional farmhouse, and unforgettable views of the Himalayas from high-altitude mountain passes. The grand finale of the trip is the classic hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, built into the side of a cliff in the beautiful Paro Valley.

Bhutan Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
7 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article
Map 10 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
10 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article
Map 5 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
5 Days in Bhutan - 4 Unique Itineraries
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Bhutan
Travel specialist Vishal Pradhan
active 2 hours ago

Vishal Pradhan

Daddy to my son ‘ Chogyal’ ,I call Paro, Bhutan home. I started my career in the tourism industry in 2003. Since then I have had the chance to create meaningful holiday experiences for many...

read more...
Travel specialist Raj Gyawali

Raj Gyawali

I specialize in soft adventure experiences that are custom tailored, and that generally go beyond the surface and immerses into the country resulting in participatory experiential experiences that...

read more...
Travel specialist Chhewang Lama
active 8 hours ago

Chhewang Lama

My Name is Chhewang Lama, and I am from the remote Nyinba Valley, located in Simikot-Humla, West Nepal where the people are of Tibetan origin. I believe that the rich cultural heritage of my...

read more...
Travel specialist Priya Dikshit

Priya Dikshit

Traveling is about making memories. Though traveling around and exploring new places is one of the best things you can do for yourself, it is always important to explore places and meet people who...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Bhutan also visit these destinations

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
kimkim trips are 100% climate neutral
A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
BBB A+ rated

Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Bhutan

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our trip to Bhutan was fabulous!
Bhutan | Nov 12 - Nov 22, 2024

Lisa
Lisa N.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Nov 28, 2024
Our trip to Bhutan was fabulous! So glad we finally made it happen, thanks to help from Kim Kim. The country itself is magical, with history and culture spread throughout. Highlights included the trek to Bumdra and the Sky Burial at 13,300 feet followed by a hike down to Tigres Nest, the town of Punakha and it's incredible dzong, and the national dish of chili cheese! There was a lot of driving back and forth to accommodate a festival which I'm not sure was worth it. The festival... Read more

Our trip to Bhutan was fabulous! So glad we finally made it happen, thanks to help from Kim Kim.

The country itself is magical, with history and culture spread throughout. Highlights included the trek to Bumdra and the Sky Burial at 13,300 feet followed by a hike down to Tigres Nest, the town of Punakha and it's incredible dzong, and the national dish of chili cheese!

There was a lot of driving back and forth to accommodate a festival which I'm not sure was worth it. The festival was nice, but as a foreigner and non-Buddhist, it was difficult to follow along. It was also overrun with pushy tourists trying to grab photos so it wasn't peaceful at all. In hindsight, I wish we would have arranged the trip more efficiently, not bothering to go to the festival which came with about an extra 6 hours of driving the same roads. But so be it, we still had a fabulous trip!

Hotels were mixed - some were fantastic while others were just average. Same with the food. All meals were included which was great. Overall Bhutanese food is delicious and we wanted to try more but we were often taken to the tourists spots on the routes which catered for a more western, simple palette. When we did go to a few real local restaurants, the food was fabulous!

The weather in November was perfect - I highly recommend this time. It was warm during the days and cool at night (except of course at 13,300 feet where it was cold all day and even colder at night!) I understand there are fewer tourists at this time, too.

What really made our trip special was our guide and our driver. Tashi and Tsering were absolutely darling. We learned so much from that, not just about the sights but also about life in Bhutan, Bhuddism, and just another way of living. They opened our eyes to so many things and we are so grateful. We were sad to say goodbye.

Overall, I'm so glad we went. It was worth every dollar and every hour of flying to get there!

Hotel Reviews
Bhutan Suites
Thimphu

Older hotel but they have done a good job with what they have. Service and food were fabulous (in fact, dinner was one of the best meals we had on the trip!) Room was huge (a one bedroom apartment) with good heating and good hot water.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Top of a hill with lots of dogs around so not easy to go walking/running on your own
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
ABC Lodge
Phobjikha Valley

In the middle of nowhere which added to the experience! Rustic but cute room. Great water pressure and temperature. Good food and nice service.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bumdra Camp
Bumdra

Amazing what they can do at 13,000 feet! I was so impressed by the setup and comforts they provided, including flushing toilets and real beds! Dinner and breakfast were terrific. Staff was beyond amazing. It was freezing at night but the tent was extremely warm (so many blankets on the bed!) I loved this place!

Authenticity & Character
Location
On top of the world!
Staff
Went above and beyond
Cleanliness & Comfort
Meri Puensum Resort
Punakha

Excellent hotel. Food was the only disappointing thing. Amazing view from the room which was huge and comfortable. Great shower. Great staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mountain resort
Jakar

Room was fine and clean. Water pressure and shower weren't great. Did laundry which was good but expensive. Food was average at best. Surprised that we were charged for water at the end (at ridiculous prices!)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Metta Resort
Paro

Service was excellent. Food was average. Not much character (this is a conference hotel). Location isn't awesome.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Not walking distance to anything
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mieke Arendsen
Mieke
Mieke Arendsen
Local specialist in Bhutan/Netherlands | Replied on Nov 28, 2024

Hi Lisa, Thank you so much for your feedback and comments on the places you have visited, this is very valuable to us!
It was a great pleasure hosting you here 🇧🇹
Wishing you all the best on behalf of the Wind Horse family,
Mieke

Our 6-day trip with Wind Horse Tours was grea...
Bhutan | Oct 23 - Oct 29, 2024

Judi
Judi D.
North Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 17, 2024
Our 6-day trip with Wind Horse Tours was great! From the moment we were met at the airport by Pema and our driver (don't know how to spell his name), our trip was carefully organized to introduce us to western Bhutan’s highlights. The days were active but not exhausting, mixing enjoyable hikes with visits to important cultural sites. Pema explained a lot about Bhutan’s religion and culture as we visited temples, dzongs, etc., and he was interesting to chat with as we drove through the... Read more

Our 6-day trip with Wind Horse Tours was great! From the moment we were met at the airport by Pema and our driver (don't know how to spell his name), our trip was carefully organized to introduce us to western Bhutan’s highlights. The days were active but not exhausting, mixing enjoyable hikes with visits to important cultural sites. Pema explained a lot about Bhutan’s religion and culture as we visited temples, dzongs, etc., and he was interesting to chat with as we drove through the beautiful country. He was always willing to take the time to answer our questions. No request was too much trouble, such as spending more time here or there. The restaurants where we had lunches were well chosen by Pema. The hotels were very comfortable and provided good dinners and breakfasts. Our driver was also excellent – this was something we especially realized when we saw a serious car accident caused by a driver falling asleep. The only thing we would have preferred would be to have our hotels in Thimphu and Paro closer to town so we could walk around the area a bit.

Hotel Reviews
Bhutan Suites
Thimphu

Very comfortable. Good meals. Friendly and helpful staff. Prefer hotel closer to town so we could walk around in our free time

Authenticity & Character
Location
Prefer hotel walkable to town.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Village Lodge
Paro
Authenticity & Character
Location
Prefer hotel closer to town
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
ABC Lodge
Phobjikha Valley
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Zhingkham Resort
Punakha
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Sebastiaan Naus
Sebastiaan
Sebastiaan Naus
Local specialist in Bhutan/Netherlands | Replied on Nov 20, 2024

Dear Judi,
Thank you so much for leaving such a nice review about your trip! And even more importantly, how great to hear you had a wonderful trip! We are very pleased to hear your visit to Bhutan was pleasant and memorable! Not surprised you were happy with the guide and driver either!
All the best and with warm regards,
Sebastiaan.

Booking the trip with Mieke was so easy and e...
Bhutan | Oct 20 - Oct 26, 2024

L
Laura K.
Chile | Reviewed on Oct 27, 2024
Booking the trip with Mieke was so easy and effective through the group chat function. Loved the flexibility to build itinerary as per our preferences. Everything worked smoothly on the trip, no time was wasted. Our guide Tashi and driver Funso were so helpful, thoughtful and experienced.. They generously shared their knowledge.. Incredible experience, thank you. Read more

Booking the trip with Mieke was so easy and effective through the group chat function. Loved the flexibility to build itinerary as per our preferences.

Everything worked smoothly on the trip, no time was wasted. Our guide Tashi and driver Funso were so helpful, thoughtful and experienced.. They generously shared their knowledge..

Incredible experience, thank you.

Hotel Reviews
Druk Hotel
Thimphu

Love love love. Authentic and beautiful rooms, great dining room food and service. Small gym.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Zhingkham Resort
Punakha

Great views and rooms. Climb to the rooms get tiring. Dining experience poor.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Paro - Hike to Tigernest Monastery aka Taktshang Goemba
Paro - Hike to Tigernest Monastery aka Taktshang Goemba
Paro

We left early and beat the crowds. Incredible day that I will remember for ever.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tashi and Funso were amazing
Transport
Local specialist: Mieke Arendsen
Mieke
Mieke Arendsen
Local specialist in Bhutan/Netherlands | Replied on Oct 27, 2024

Dear Laura, thank you so much for sharing your review, and your kind words about our staff that was on the road with you. I am glad to hear that you have enjoyed your time together and experienced a smooth trip. Indeed, now you can cherish the happy memories of this Himalayan Kingdom :)
Thank you for being our guest!
Wishing you all the best,

Mieke