10-Day In-Depth Cultural Tour in Bhutan with Samtengang Trek

Paro , Bhutan

10-Day In-Depth Cultural Tour in Bhutan with Samtengang Trek

Active

10d

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The journey will take you through the core of four western districts of Bhutan: Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang with 4 days of memorable trekking which starts from Punakha and finishes in Wangdue Phodrang.

This trek is short and a pleasant journey through pristine forests and passes some of the remote villages of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang dotted by historical and religious sites. It is a fairly easy trek as the altitude only ranges between 1100m – 1900m and the climate is warm throughout the hike.

The path takes you through forests of rhododendron and oak, through the villages of Sha and Chungsakha, and across the longest footbridge in Bhutan. While this trek is available throughout the winter the best times to embark on this beautiful journey are from March to June and September to November. The trail is approximately 54km in length.

Available options

10-Day In-Depth Cultural Tour in Bhutan with Samtengang Trek

Pickup included

What's included

All internal taxes for the services listed above

Porters & Ponies

Sleeping bag liner (not sleeping bag)

All entry fees including trekking permit

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

Experienced English-speaking licensed tour guide

Medical treatment at a hospital in Bhutan if you sustain injuries while in Bhutan

All ground transportation including round trip airport transfers

3 nights full-service outdoor camping in pristine wilderness

All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner)

6 nights accommodations at a 3-star hotel on a twin sharing basis

Visa Fee & Processing. You'll receive your e-Visa within 4-5 business days.

What's not included

Travel insurance is mandatory

Emergency evacuation

Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone call charges

Tips to Guide and Driver

Sleeping bag & travel pillow (you need for camping during trekking)

Any other expenses of personal nature

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A minimum of 2 participants are required to run this tour and can be run on a private basis.

We highly recommend booking at least a few months before the departure date so that we have enough time to ensure the flights are available. If you already have flight tickets to and from Bhutan, we can take bookings up to a week before the departure date. To process visa, it only takes 4-5 business days.

There are only two airlines that connect Bhutan with the outside world and so securing air tickets can be difficult, especially during the months of high season. Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. We recommend you book your international flights a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March to May and September to November. If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.

After you book the tour, kindly send us clear copies of passports and passport-size photos of all the participants. A biodata page including the machine-readable zone must be seen clearly. Passports should have a minimum of 6 MONTHS validity from the day you depart from Bhutan. You may also want to check the passport requirements by your next destination country after Bhutan. A copy of your e-Visa will be emailed to you once it is approved. It only takes 4-5 business days to get visa approval and it is 100 percent guaranteed as long as we receive clear passport copies of all the participants. The actual visa will be stamped on your passport upon arrival. Send the passport copies to the Local Supplier E-mail address.

Important notes

We will send a copy of your e-Visa and before traveling, you'll need to print a copy and show it at the check-in counter of your flight to Bhutan. Without proof of your e-Visa, you may be denied boarding the flight. Your e-Visa copy will be an entry ticket to attractions as well as a trekking permit.

About Paro

Paro is a picturesque valley in Bhutan, known for its stunning landscapes, historic dzongs, and the only international airport in the country. It's a cultural and spiritual hub, offering a blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.

Top Attractions

Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong)

A stunning fortress-monastery that serves as the administrative and religious center of Paro. It's known for its beautiful wooden architecture and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free (entry fee for the museum: Nu 300 approx. $4.20 USD)

Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

A sacred Buddhist monastery perched on a cliffside, accessible via a steep hike. It's one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks.

Religious/Cultural 4-5 hours (hike and visit) Nu 1000 (approx. $14 USD) for foreigners

Chele La Pass

The highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the valley below.

Nature/Scenic 1-2 hours (visit) Free

Drukgyel Dzong

A ruined fortress that once protected Bhutan from Tibetan invasions. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Bhutanese resilience.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Kyichu Lhakhang

One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

Religious/Cultural 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ema Datshi

A spicy stew made with chilies and cheese, a staple in Bhutanese cuisine

Main dish Vegetarian (unless made with meat)

Momos

Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, a popular street food

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Jasha Maru

A spicy minced chicken curry, often served with red rice

Main dish Non-vegetarian

Suja (Butter Tea)

A traditional Bhutanese tea made with butter and salt, often served in the morning

Drink Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rafting Meditation Yoga Spas Temple visits Festivals

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

These months offer the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The skies are clear, and the landscapes are vibrant.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dzongkha
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Ngultrum (BTN)

Time Zone

Bhutan Time (BTT, UTC+6)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bhutan is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful society. However, travelers should exercise caution when hiking, driving, or engaging in outdoor activities.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and carrying large amounts of cash.
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Getting there

By air

Paro International Airport • 0 km

By bus

Paro Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but can be crowded. Schedules are not always reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Paro Town Drukgyel Village Chele La

Day trips

Haa Valley

50 km • Full day

A scenic valley known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and historic sites.

Phobjikha Valley

70 km • Full day

A remote and picturesque valley known for its wetlands, black-necked cranes, and traditional villages.

Thimphu

55 km • Half day to full day

The capital city of Bhutan, offering a mix of modern and traditional elements, with historic sites, museums, and vibrant markets.

Festivals

Paro Tsechu • Spring and autumn (specific dates vary each year) Haa Summer Festival • July Thimphu Tsechu • September/October (specific dates vary each year)

Pro tips

Visit Paro Dzong early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photographs.
Hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery early in the day to beat the heat and crowds, and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Try local Bhutanese dishes like Ema Datshi and Jasha Maru for an authentic culinary experience.
Learn a few basic Dzongkha phrases to connect with locals and show respect for their culture.
Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and between seasons.