Trip Summary
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich culinary traditions and cultural heritage. From savoring authentic Bhutanese dishes to learning the secrets of local cooking, this tour offers a feast for both your taste buds and your soul. Experience Bhutanese hospitality firsthand through village stays, cultural performances, and visits to historic landmarks, all while exploring the flavors and stories that make Bhutan unique. This journey highlights the most authentic culinary experiences, including dining at Bhutan’s most popular spots.
Trip Highlights
- • Dine at Bhutan’s most authentic culinary spots, including Aum Toeb Zam and Babesa Village Restaurant.
- • Explore iconic cultural landmarks like Paro Taktsang, Punakha Dzong, and Dochula Pass.
- • Experience Bhutanese hospitality through village stays, meals, and cultural interactions.
- • Savor unique dishes like ema datshi, momos, ara, and more, prepared by locals and expert chefs
Day 01 :
Arrival in Paro
- Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted with a warm Bhutanese welcome.
- Check-in at your hotel and enjoy refreshments.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a stunning architectural marvel that introduces you to Bhutanese heritage.
- Evening Activity: Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring authentic Bhutanese dishes such as ema datshi (chili and cheese stew), phaksha paa (pork with radish), and jasha maroo (spicy chicken). Dinner will be served at one of the available popular Bhutanese kitchens in Paro, known for its traditional ambiance and homemade flavors.
Day 02 :
Hike to Taktsang Monastery
- Embark on a morning hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside. The hike is both challenging and rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
- Culinary Highlight: Enjoy a traditional picnic lunch at a scenic spot along the hike.
- Return to Paro and relax at your hotel.
- Evening Activity: Go for a walk around Paro town or nearby areas, meet locals and experience some Bhutanese hospitality.
Day 03 :
Paro to Punakha
- Drive to Punakha, enjoying the stunning views of the Himalayas from Dochula Pass (3,100m). Stop for tea and snacks at the Dochula Café.
- Visit the Chimi Lhakhang, the famous fertility temple, surrounded by scenic rice fields.
- Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortresses in Bhutan.
- Dinner will include dishes made with fresh local produce, and seasonal vegetables at one of the farmhouses in Punakha.
Overnight: Farmhouse
Day 04 :
Punakha – Culinary Immersion in the Valley
- Start the morning with a relaxing village walk, exploring the lush countryside and interacting with local families.
- Culinary Experience: Learn and enjoy delicious Bhutanese local meal and drinks such as butter tea.
- Enjoy a Bhutanese-style lunch, tasting farm-to-table dishes like kewa datshi (potato with cheese) and shakam paa (dried beef with chilies).
- Evening Activity: Visit the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan for panoramic views of the valley.
Overnight: Punakha
Day 05 :
Punakha to Thimphu – Exploring the Capital’s Culture
- Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, and check in to your hotel.
- Visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, a magnificent 169-foot-tall golden Buddha offering panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the Centenary Farmers Market, where you can interact with vendors and learn about local spices and ingredients.
- Culinary Highlight: Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local restaurant, tasting innovative takes on traditional Bhutanese cuisine.
- Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, where you can experience a replica of a traditional Bhutanese home and enjoy an evening meal featuring dishes from different regions of Bhutan.
Day 06 :
Thimphu – Art, Craft, and Traditional Cuisine
- Start the day with a visit to the National Textile Museum and the Zorig Chusum Institute to see traditional arts and crafts in action.
- Afternoon visit to the Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century monastery.
- Evening Highlight: Dinner at Babesa Village Restaurant, where you will dine in a beautifully preserved traditional house while sampling dishes.
Day 07 :
Thimphu to Paro – Farewell Culinary Celebration
- Drive back to Paro, stopping at local villages along the way for tea and snacks.
- Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring the Paro town’s local craft shops.
- Final Culinary Highlight: A farewell dinner at Aum Toeb Zam or popular Bhutanese Kitchen featuring an elaborate Bhutanese feast with live music and storytelling.
Day 08 :
Departure from Paro
- After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you beautiful memories of Bhutan’s flavors and culture.
- All Bhutan Government Fees: Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and visa processing.
- All Permits: Trekking permits for the Druk Path.
- Accommodation:
- - 3-star hotel stays in Paro & Thimphu.
- - Full camping setup during the trek (tents, mats, dining tent).
- - All Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout the trip.
- All Transportation: Private vehicle transfers and airport transfers.
- Guided Services: Licensed tour guide and full trekking crew (cook, support staff, pack animals).
- All Activities & Entrances: Museum/dzong fees, mindfulness sessions, hot stone bath, and farewell dinner.
- Trek Essentials: Drinking water, hot beverages, and basic camp facilities.
- International Flights: To/from Paro.
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
- Personal Expenses: Drinks, laundry, souvenirs, Wi-Fi.
- Personal Gear: Clothing, boots, sleeping bag, backpack.
- Tips: For guides, drivers, and trek crew.
- Optional Activities: Any extras not listed in the itinerary.
- Extra Baggage & Porters: Airline excess fees or personal porter hire.
- Medical: Vaccinations and personal medications.
- Unforeseen Costs: Due to travel disruptions or events beyond control.

