Dive into the soul of the Himalayas with our Western + Central Bhutan Highlights (8 Nights / 9 Days) tour. This carefully curated package is ideal for travelers who want to cover both the popular western regions and the spiritually rich heartland of Bhutan. All transfers are arranged through our trusted Bhutan taxi service with experienced drivers, offering a safe and scenic travel experience.
Your journey starts in Paro, followed by a drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. Discover ancient traditions and modern Bhutanese life with visits to the Folk Heritage Museum, BBS Tower, and the majestic Buddha Dordenma. From Thimphu, journey over the iconic Dochula Pass to Punakha, where you’ll visit Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, and enjoy riverside walks or optional rafting.
Continue east to Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s monarchy, then onward to Bumthang, the country’s spiritual heart. There, you’ll explore sacred monasteries like Kurje Lhakhang, Tamshing, and the mystical Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). The tour ends with a return to Paro, where you’ll take the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike before flying out.
With flexible options to return from Bumthang by road or domestic flight, this package is ideal for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and culture enthusiasts. Enjoy a smooth and immersive experience with Bhutan car rental with driver services across every leg of your journey.
Tour Itinerary
1 Day 1 - Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu
Meet at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu (65 km / 1.5 hrs). En route visit Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge. If time allows, explore Buddha Dordenma and Thimphu market. Overnight at Thimphu.
2 Day 2 - Thimphu Sightseeing
Full-day city tour including King's Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, BBS Tower, Takin Preserve, and local markets. Overnight in Thimphu.
3 Day 3 - Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Drive to Punakha (77 km / 2.5 hrs), stopping at Dochula Pass (3,100 m) and the 108 stupas. Visit Chimi Lhakhang and the beautiful Punakha Dzong. Overnight stay.
4 Day 4 - Punakha Sightseeing
Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and nearby villages along the Pho Chu River. Optional: Enjoy white-water rafting. Overnight in Punakha.
5 Day 5 - Punakha to Trongsa
Drive across Pele La Pass into central Bhutan. En route stop at Chendebji Chorten and visit Trongsa Dzong and the Royal Heritage Museum (Ta Dzong). Overnight in Trongsa.
6 Day 6 - Trongsa to Bumthang
Drive to Bumthang via Yotong La Pass. On arrival, visit Jakar Dzong and nearby monasteries. Overnight in Bumthang.
7 Day 7 - Bumthang Sightseeing
Full-day cultural exploration of Kurje Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Tamshing Monastery, and Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). Evening at leisure. Overnight at Bumthang.
8 Day 8 - Return to Paro (Flight or Drive)
Fly to Paro or return by road via Trongsa and Wangdue. Check-in and relax. Optionally visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Overnight in Paro.
9 Day 9 - Tiger’s Nest Hike & Departure
Early morning hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). After descent, transfer to Paro Airport for departure. Tour ends.