7 Days • 6 Nights
Instagrammable Bhutan | Couple Special
Tour Includes
About the Trip
Together you'll stand beneath the towering golden Buddha Dordenma, wander the prayer-flag courtyards of Tashichho Dzong, meet the shy takin, and share the long, rewarding climb to the Tiger's Nest with the whole valley spread below. Between the big sights there is time for slow coffees, misty viewpoints and quiet monasteries — Bhutan rewards couples who travel unhurried.
With a private guide and driver throughout, full board and a gentle pace, all the two of you have to do is enjoy each other and the mountains.
Trip Highlights
- A private couple's journey with full board, guide and driver throughout
- The scenic overland climb from Phuentsholing into the Himalayan valleys
- The 51-metre golden Buddha Dordenma above Thimphu — a photographer's dream
- Prayer-flag courtyards and whitewashed walls of Tashichho Dzong
- The shy takin, Bhutan's national animal, at the Motithang preserve
- The unforgettable hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, together
- Sacred Kyichu Lhakhang and the old streets of Paro
- Endless photogenic viewpoints, chortens and mountain backdrops
Day by Day
A detailed day-by-day plan for this 7-day journey.
Met at Bagdogra and driven to the lively border town of Phuentsholing, the overland gateway to Bhutan. Complete the entry formalities with your guide's help and settle in for your first night on the edge of the kingdom.
A spectacular drive climbs from the humid plains into cool pine forest, past the hillside Kharbandi Gompa and tumbling waterfalls, to reach the capital by afternoon. Settle into Thimphu and take an easy first evening stroll along its main street.
A full, photogenic day: the giant golden Buddha Dordenma with the valley at its feet, the National Memorial Chorten, the takin preserve, Tashichho Dzong and the viewpoints couples love at golden hour. Time too for a cafe and a little shopping.
Drive to Paro, pausing at the ancient Simtokha Dzong on the way. In the afternoon explore Rinpung Dzong and cross its traditional cantilever bridge, then wander Paro's pretty, walkable old town hand in hand.
Share the iconic climb to the Tiger's Nest, clinging to its cliff high above the valley — the ultimate Bhutan photograph and a genuinely moving experience. Afterwards, visit the serene Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the kingdom's oldest temples.
A relaxed morning in Paro before the scenic drive back down to Phuentsholing, watching the landscape unspool from mountains to foothills. A final Bhutanese dinner together at the border.
After breakfast, a private transfer to Bagdogra for your onward flight, hearts full and camera rolls fuller.
Where You Will Travel
What's inside the package?
Inclusions
- Bhutan visa and all internal permits arranged for you
- All government royalties and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- 1 night Phuentsholing, 2 nights Thimphu, 2 nights Paro and 1 night Phuentsholing (deluxe hotels)
- Full board throughout — daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- A licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide throughout
- A private vehicle with an experienced driver throughout
- All sightseeing and monument entry fees per the itinerary
- Border and permit assistance at Phuentsholing, and transfers to and from Bagdogra
Exclusions
- International airfare to and from the gateway (Paro airport or Bagdogra)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended for a Himalayan trip)
- Drinks — alcoholic, soft or bottled beyond that provided — unless stated
- Pony or horse hire at Tiger's Nest (optional, payable locally)
- Personal expenses, laundry and shopping
- Tips and gratuities for your guide and driver
- Any meal, activity or excursion not mentioned in the itinerary or inclusions
Know when to go.
- Visa & Permits: International visitors need a Bhutan visa and internal permits, arranged in advance through a licensed operator — we handle all of this for you. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates
- Sustainable Development Fee: Bhutan levies an SDF per person for each night of the stay to fund conservation and free healthcare and education; in this package the current SDF is already included in your price
- Guide & Driver: Every day is accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese guide and a private driver. Bhutan is explored on a set itinerary rather than independently, which makes the whole trip effortless
- Altitude: Paro sits at about 2,200m and Thimphu at 2,300m, with passes above 3,000m. Take the first day gently, walk slowly and drink plenty of water
- Full Board: Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included every day, so you never have to think about where to eat
- Dress Code: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting dzongs, temples and monasteries. Modest, layered clothing is ideal for the changing mountain weather
- Tiger's Nest Hike: The Taktsang pilgrimage is a moderately steep 4-5 hour round trip. A pony can be hired for the uphill stretch to the halfway cafeteria if you prefer
- Currency: The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is pegged to the Indian Rupee. Cards work in Thimphu and Paro, but carry cash for smaller towns, markets and monasteries
- Connectivity: Pick up a local B-Mobile or TashiCell SIM on arrival; hotel wifi is available but can be slow in remote valleys — a good excuse to switch off
- Local Customs: Photography inside temples is often restricted, so always ask first. Bhutan is plastic-conscious and tobacco sales are banned, so pack accordingly
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all meals included?
Yes. This is a full-board holiday — breakfast, lunch and dinner are included every day, at your hotels and at hand-picked local restaurants along the way.
Is a guide included?
Yes, a licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide and a private driver accompany you throughout. It is the standard, and best, way to experience Bhutan.
Do we need a visa for Bhutan?
Yes, and we arrange it for you along with all internal permits. You simply send us your passport details and we handle the paperwork.
Is the Sustainable Development Fee included?
Yes, the current SDF is already built into your package price, so there is nothing extra to pay on that front.
How hard is the Tiger's Nest hike?
It is a moderately steep climb of about four to five hours return. Most reasonably fit travellers manage it comfortably, and ponies can be hired for the uphill stretch.
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the loveliest, with clear skies and mild days. Winter is cold but bright; summer brings lush green valleys and monsoon rain.
Are the transfers and sightseeing private?
Yes, you travel in your own private vehicle with your guide throughout — no shared coaches or group departures.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Absolutely. Every day can be tailored to your pace and interests, and you can add festivals, hikes or a hot-stone bath. Just tell us what you have in mind.
Is this itinerary good for a honeymoon?
Yes, it is designed for couples with a relaxed, romantic pace, private transfers throughout and the most photogenic spots in western Bhutan. We can add honeymoon touches on request.
Why enter overland via Phuentsholing?
The overland route is scenic and gradual, climbing from the plains into the mountains — a lovely way to arrive. We look after all the border permits for you.
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