Bhutan Sustainable Tour

Trip Duration:

6 Days 5 Nights

Trip Type:

Nature and Environment

Season:

Throughout The Year

Places Covered:

Thimphu, Paro, Punakha and Haa

Tour Code

E1011

Trip Style:

Customisable, flexible date, flexible number of travelers

Trip Components:

Buddhist, Culture, Religious Sites, Museums, Arts and Crafts, Nature, Hiking, Valley, River, Mountain, interaction with locals, Himalayan View, Villages, Wildlife

Price:

Price may differ if your requirement vaires from standard offer

Overview

Take off for a transformative journey with Sustainable Bhutan, a 5-day exploration of Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. This eco-tour emphasises responsible travel, allowing you to immerse yourself in pristine natural beauty while contributing to local conservation efforts. Experience Bhutan’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism by staying in eco-lodges and participating in community-based initiatives.Discover stunning landscapes in Paro, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and the lush valleys of Punakha, where you’ll explore beautiful temples and dzongs. Each day concludes with moments for personal reflection and relaxation in Bhutan’s serene environment, rejuvenating your spirit while deepening your understanding of the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting sustainable travel.

Key Experience

Interact with local communities and learn about their sustainable farm practices and deep-rooted connection to nature.
Embark on thrilling activities like hiking, white-water rafting, and cultural tours, all while minimising your environmental impact.
Immerse yourself in eco-friendly practices, staying in sustainable lodges and participating in community-based initiatives.

Journey Map

Show Places

Geocoding Error Occured.

Tried to Geocode:

Error Type:

Please be sure to follow the tutorial on how to setup the Google APIs required for the Advanced Google Map Widget.

Google Map API Key Tutorial

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro and Thimphu Exploration

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you to Bhutan, and make our way to Thimphu.
Upon reaching Thimphu, check into your eco-friendly hotel, a perfect blend of comfort and sustainability. You’ll be introduced to Bhutan’s commitment to ecotourism, learning about its status as a carbon-negative country and its dedication to eco-friendly travel practices.
Lunch at the ‘Village restaurant’ where authentic Bhutanese dishes are served in a local setting.
In the afternoon, visit the National Memorial Chorten, a spiritual landmark built in memory of Bhutan’s third king.
Continue your journey by exploring the Folk Heritage Museum, where you’ll gain insights into Bhutan’s traditional lifestyle, with a focus on sustainable living through agriculture and resource management.
Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the vibrant ‘Kaja Throm’, where locals gather to sell fresh produce and unique Bhutanese goods, showcasing the country’s efforts in promoting urban sustainability.

Day 2: Thimphu to Haa

Journey to Haa, you’ll pass through the picturesque Chelela and Jangchub Chorten, offering stunning views of the majestic mountains.
While in Haa, explore the historic Lhakhang karpo(White) and Nagpo (Black), learning about their rich history and cultural significance.
For a unique experience, visit the trout farm and gain insights into Bhutan’s aquaculture practices.
Check into a eco lodge or a local homestay for a restful night

Day 3: Journey to Punakha

Ascend the breathtaking Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.
Upon arrival in Punakha, check into a serene riverside eco-lodge, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle flow of the river.
Embark on a guided nature walk along the riverbank, observing diverse flora and fauna, and learning about local conservation efforts.

Day 4: Tiger’s Nest Hike

Hike to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic landmark.The hike promotes ecotourism by encouraging minimal environmental impact and supporting conservation efforts. Learn how the locals protect the monastery’s surroundings.
Relax with a traditional hot stone bath at your eco-lodge.

Day 4: Punakha Dzong and Rafting

Start your day with a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, in Punakha, taking in the stunning natural scenery along the way.
Arrive at the chorten, a beautiful stupa symbolising peace and protection, and enjoy some quiet reflection.
Picnic lunch featuring locally-sourced organic foods near the chorten.
Visit Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, at sunset for stunning photographs..
Embark on an eco-friendly white-water rafting adventure on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Conclude your day exploring the local market, supporting sustainable and ethical products.

Day 5: Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Enjoy an early morning drive back to Paro for a Taktsang Monastery
After your spiritual journey, replenish your energy with an organic Bhutanese meal at the cafeteria.
Return to the eco-lodge for a relaxing evening, indulging in a natural spa treatment to rejuvenate your senses.

Day 6: Departure

Depart from Paro Airport with unforgettable memories of Bhutan, as our team warmly bids you farewell. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!

Our Price

Slotrave Traveller: USD 1920 per-person
Couple: USD 1770 per-person
Group Size (3 to 6): USD 1680 per-person
Group Size (7 to 9): USD 1650 per-person
Group Size (10+): USD1590 per-person

Note: price may differ from the standard offer depending on your need and trip style. Get in touch with us to finalise if you wish to customise your trip.

Included in the price

✓ USD 40 visa fee per person for a single entry.
✓ SDF (Sustainable Development Fees) & Taxes for the duration of trip in Bhutan
✓ Visa process and E-permits arrangement as per the itinerary
✓ All accommodations on twin/double sharing basis or as per the group size in three star hotel.
✓ Breakfast & your choice of lunch and dinner.
✓ Full-time English-Speaking License Guide
✓ Transfers and sightseeing as per your itinerary by comfortable imported vehicles, excluding domestice air travel
✓ Applicable entrance fees to those sightseeing indicated in the itinerary only.
✓ Farmhouse experiences for those interested guests.
✓ Cultural experiences and activities for those interested.
✓ Complimentary bottled water throughout the journey.

Excluded from the price

✗ Flight Fares (domestic & internationals), we can organize your flights
✗ Additional/Extra room supplement and room upgrade charges.
✗ Bank charges for payment transfers. Card payment charges are higher than wire transfer.
✗ Any alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages taken from the hotels/restaurants
✗ Personal expenses or shopping, phone calls, use business center in the hotels etc.
✗ Travel Insurance
✗ Unexpected cost resulting out of any circumstances
✗ Gratuities/tipping to guides and drivers.
✗ Activities like (Cycling, River Rafting, Motor Biking, Horse Riding, Cultural Program etc.).
✗ Anything which is not mentioned under included in the price.

Solo Traveler:

Tourism Policy of Bhutan

Bhutan’s tourism policy is guided by the principle of “High Value, Low Impact,” aims to preserve its natural and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable development. The country limits tourist numbers through a mandatory daily tariff/SDF (sustrainable development fee) ensuring that tourism benefits local communities and supports environmental conservation. The policy encourages quality experiences over quantity, attracting tourists who appreciate Bhutan’s unique landscapes, cultural festivals, and traditional way of life. By carefully managing tourism, Bhutan aims to maintain its distinct identity and protect its natural resources, aligning with its commitment to Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress.

Sustrainable Development Fee

Bhutan introduced the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as part of its tourism policy to support environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation. As of 2022, international tourists visiting Bhutan pay an SDF of USD 200 per person, per day. However, a 50% discount is granted on USD 200 until 31 August 2027. This fee is in addition to the daily package cost and is intended to ensure a minimal environmental footprint while generating revenue for sustainable projects across the country. Regional tourists from India, who previously had no SDF, now pay a reduced rate of INR 1,200 per person, per day. This fee structure reinforces Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism model, promoting responsible tourism that aligns with the country’s sustainable development goals.

Visa and Entry Requirement for Bhutan

To obtain a tourist visa for Bhutan, all tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must apply through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner, who will handle the entire visa application process. The steps to apply include selecting a licensed tour operator, providing the necessary documents to them, and paying the minimum daily package rate, which covers the visa fees. The tour operator will then submit your application to the Department of Tourism, and once it is approved, a visa clearance letter will be issued. Upon arrival in Bhutan, you must present this visa clearance letter at the port of entry, where your visa will be stamped into your passport.

Documents Required for Processing Visa

Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry.
Passport Size Photographs : Two recent photographs.
Completed Visa Application Form : Provided by your tour operator.
Travel Itinerary : Detailed itinerary arranged by the tour operator.
Proof of Payment : Confirmation of tour package payment.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian Nationals

Indian nationals visiting Bhutan can obtain an entry permit at the port of entry, which includes Phuentsholing, Paro, Gelephu, or Samdrup Jongkhar, by presenting a valid passport or voter ID card. Additionally, there is an option to apply for an online permit before arrival for added convenience.