Weather and Best Season
Bhutan has seasonal weather, yet you can take this 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour at any time of the year. A 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour is usually best between spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant in these months with blue skies and good mountain views that enhance perfect sightseeing and hiking.
In spring, there are blooming rhododendrons and pleasant weather, and in autumn, there is crisp air and colorful festivals in such towns as Thimphu and Paro. The winter (December-February) is dry, sunny, but very cold, particularly in the night-time, but still quite bearable with warm clothing on a brief visit.
Summer (June-August) is in sync with the monsoon, thus you are likely to have rain and cloudy skies. However, the valleys become greener. Every season is unique in its way, no matter the time of the year. Our advice is to have your trip planned either in spring or fall in order to have good weather and an opportunity to attend vibrant local celebrations.
Food & Drink
One of the memorable things about a Bhutan visit is the food. This 3 days 2 night Bhutan tour will include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and as such, you will get to experience the Bhutanese cuisine. Food in Bhutan is usually characterized by the presence of red rice, buckwheat, and maize, and tasty dishes.
Ema Datshi is the most renowned meal, a spicy food made of chilies and cheese, which you cannot help trying in case you do not feel afraid of a spicy taste. You will also come across delicious momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and other kinds of veggie or meat curries. Dining is typically done at your hotel or at a local restaurant, and there is often Western or Indian food available to those with weaker stomachs.
Be sure to try the local butter tea (suja) or milk tea, and perhaps a glass of Ara, a traditional rice wine, in the evening. Drinking water is provided (we give at least two bottles of mineral water per person each day) – it’s advisable to stick to bottled or boiled water.
The dining experience is generally comfortable, and vegetarians will have no trouble finding suitable options, as many Bhutanese dishes are vegetable-based. Enjoy the chance to savor Bhutan’s unique flavors and hospitality at every meal!
Altitude Sickness
Another factor that should be taken into consideration by travelers is the altitude, which fortunately will not create any issues on our 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour, as the altitudes are moderate. The peak of the whole journey is the Tiger Nest Monastery, which is approximately 3,120m (10,236 ft) above sea level.
It is quite a high elevation, and you can get a little out of breath during the walk, though it is not high enough to be under the limit at which serious altitude sickness tends to develop. For most of the tour, you will be at lower elevations: Paro is about 2,200m and Thimphu is around 2,350m. These altitudes are quite manageable for the vast majority of visitors.
In order to be comfortable, we would suggest you remain hydrated, take your time on the hike, and not push yourself hard at all, especially on Day 2. Milder symptoms such as a slight headache or shortness of breath may sometimes occur, though serious altitude sickness is extremely unlikely on a 3-day Bhutan visit not involving high-altitude walks.
In case you are sensitive to altitude, talk to your doctor prior to the trip, just in case. Otherwise, rest assured that altitude should not be a major problem on this short tour – just listen to your body and enjoy the views!
Visa and Permits
All international tourists (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) need a visa to travel to Bhutan, and we handle the entire visa process for you. As part of the visa/e-permit requirements, valid travel insurance is also necessary.
You’ll simply need to provide a scanned copy of your passport and some details at least a few weeks before your trip. The visa approval letter will be issued by the Bhutanese government, and we’ll send it to you before you fly; your actual visa will be stamped in your passport at Paro Airport upon arrival. In addition to the visa, special travel permits are required to visit certain areas of Bhutan.
For this short tour covering Paro and Thimphu, we obtain all the necessary permits (for Paro and Thimphu regions) in advance, and your guide will handle them during the trip. Your tour package includes the cost of the Bhutan visa and all required permits.
Bhutan also charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for tourists (which is included in our tour price); this fee goes towards education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Bhutan. In summary, simply book the tour and provide us with your documents – we’ll make sure you have all the visas and permits needed for a hassle-free trip.
Health & Safety
Bhutan is one of the safest destinations in Asia, with a very low crime rate and a peaceful, welcoming society. In tourist destinations, there is virtually no incidence of violent crime, and therefore, there is no need to worry during your 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour. However, it is also a good idea to take a few standard precautions: leave your valuables locked up and remember to pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in busy markets or events.
Health-wise wise there are no particular vaccinations required in order to enter Bhutan (other than standard immunizations), but it is a good idea to ensure that you are up to date with standard immunizations. We suggest bringing any personal medication that you need, and we will carry a basic first-aid kit (band-aids, motion sickness pills, etc.) just in case.
In this tour, you will be guided by a guide and a driver who have been trained on basic first aid and safety practices. Hospitals and clinics are available in Thimphu and Paro for any unlikely emergencies. When hiking or walking, follow your guide’s instructions – for example, stay on the marked paths at Tiger’s Nest and don’t go too close to cliff edges.
Bhutan’s roads between cities are winding but generally well-maintained; our drivers have ample experience driving in the mountains and will prioritize your safety (please wear your seatbelt in the vehicle for safety). In the evenings, the towns get quiet early, so if you take a stroll after dark, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas or go with a companion.
Finally, Bhutan places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation – help us keep you safe and Bhutan clean by following local guidelines (for instance, no smoking in many public areas and no littering). With basic caution and respect for local rules, you can expect a very safe and healthy trip.
Transportation
The transportation in Bhutan is relatively restricted to road transportation and air transportation; however, we provide all the arrangements you need to make the journey comfortable.
When starting your 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour, you will probably land at the Paro International Airport by air. Flights to Paro operate from select cities like Kathmandu, Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, and a few others. (These flights are not included in the tour price, but we can assist you in booking them.).
When you reach Bhutan, we will take care of all the transport. The tour will include a private vehicle with a professional driver for all transfers and sightseeing. Paro and Thimphu are approximately 55km and 1.5 hours away by car. The route is picturesque and follows streams and mountains, and our driver can pull over to take pictures or stretch your legs.
We have comfortable cars which are in good condition and suited to the mountain environment. You will be safe and enjoy your ride, whether in an SUV, car, or minivan (which depends on the number of people). We provide heating and air conditioning in the vehicle. In Paro and Thimphu, the use of a personal vehicle enables us to visit all the attractions in your program effectively.
Bhutan has no railway or even a domestic route required to fly between countries, so transportation by road is the predominant form of transport to use in this route. In case you are likely to get motion sickness on winding roads, you always have a chance to bring a medicine, although our schedule will allow us to move at a comfortable pace. There is nothing to worry about. When Above The Himalaya handles your transportation, you will just need to sit back and enjoy the ride.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly suggested for any other trip, including your 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour. Although we make every effort to provide a smooth and safe trip, a good travel insurance policy is a guarantee that you can relax in case of any unpredictable situations. Prior to beginning your 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour, ensure that you have insurance covering medical bills, emergency evacuation, cancellation of the trip, and loss or theft of property.
Bhutan is highly secure, but flight delays, unexpected illnesses, or minor ailments (such as a sprained ankle during a hike) can occur during any vacation. Travel insurance can be used to cover additional expenses or offer evacuation in these situations.
When purchasing a policy, confirm that it covers the maximum altitude you’ll reach in Bhutan (around 3,120m on the Tiger’s Nest hike – most standard travel insurance will cover this height). Also, ensure it’s valid for the duration of your stay and covers guided activities. You should carry your insurance documents or e-copies with you during the tour.
Above The Himalaya will ask for your insurance details before the trip as a precaution. Remember that insurance is not provided in the tour package, and any medical or evacuation expenses within Bhutan will be out of pocket. When you have the appropriate insurance, then you can go out and be assured that should anything happen, you are covered, and it is highly unlikely to happen.
Your Extra Expenses
Our 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour is expected to be almost all-inclusive; however, there are some additional costs that you need to consider. Air travel to and out of Bhutan or Paro flights) is not included, and thus you will have to pay for your flights separately. Travel insurance, which you are supposed to take independently, is also not included.
In addition to these, you already include a majority of the big expenses in Bhutan (accommodation, guide, entry fees, meals, visa, permits, etc.). However, you will want to have some cash (in Bhutanese Ngultrum or equivalent) for personal expenses. These include beverages and snacks outside of provided meals – for example, if you want additional bottled drinks, alcohol, or coffee at a cafe.
Tips for your guide and driver at the end of the tour are customary (though voluntary; many travelers give around USD $5–10 per day for the guide and $3–5 per day for the driver as a gesture of thanks). You might also spend on souvenirs or gifts such as handicrafts, local textiles, or paintings. Other potential extra expenses are laundry services at your hotel, phone calls, or internet beyond the free Wi-Fi.
If you want to do any optional activities (a hot stone bath at a farmhouse, which might cost around $20–$30, or trying on a traditional Bhutanese outfit for photos), you would pay for those additionally. Overall, Bhutan has a policy of packaged pricing, which means fewer surprise costs – just bring some spending money for the personal extras and you’ll be all set.
Language & Communication
The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, but you won’t face any communication barriers on our 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour because English is widely spoken in Bhutan. English is taught in schools, so most people in tourism (guides, hotel staff, and drivers) speak it well.
Your tour guide will be fluent in English and happy to translate or help if you interact with locals who speak limited English. (Many Bhutanese also understand or speak some Hindi due to regional connections and Bollywood’s popularity.) In short, language will not be an issue – you can easily communicate your needs during the trip.
For communication back home or online, Bhutan has decent telecommunication services. Upon arrival, you can purchase a local SIM card (from B-Mobile or TashiCell) at the airport or in town for affordable data and calling. This will allow you to use the internet and make local/international calls (make sure your phone is not locked to your home network, so a Bhutanese SIM will work).
Mobile coverage is good in Paro and Thimphu. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some cafes, especially in Thimphu, though internet speeds may be slow or inconsistent at times. It will be adequate for emails and messaging. Bhutan’s electricity is 230V / 50Hz and uses type D, F, or G outlets (similar to those in India and the UK), so bring a universal adapter to charge your devices.
Don’ts on this trip
These are some of the items to take into consideration when you are on the 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour. Do not wear shorts or revealing clothing to temples or dzongs- cover shoulders and knees, take off hat and shoes. Do not take photos in monasteries or of monks in ceremonies unless your guide indicates that you can.
Never smoke in the open, as Bhutan has strict provisions; you should only smoke in designated spots and dispose of the cigarette butts. Do not criticize the royal family or the national flag because the Bhutanese people hold it in high regard.
No littering or disturbing nature: use your trash until you locate a bin. Additionally, outside of town areas or on hikes, always stay with your guide and follow marked trails.
Trip Extension
If you have extra time or wish to deepen your Bhutan experience, there are several ways to extend your trip. Most of the travelers having 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour would add some days to visit other places in Bhutan. As an example, you may continue with your trip to Punakha (the ancient capital of Bhutan), to see the beautiful Punakha Dzong and enjoy the warmer climate of the valley.
The average extension would make it a 4 or 5 night tour, where you have a day or two in Punakha and might pay a visit to Dochu La Pass (with its 108 chortens and views of the whole mountain) along the way. Other common extensions are Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey) with its gorgeous views and black-necked cranes (during winter) or spending the additional time in Thimphu to visit more cultural activities, such as other museums, local markets, or slow-paced hikes.
Other than Bhutan, it is also possible to add this tour to other destinations. As you are already in the Himalayas, you may want to add a Nepal tour or a trip to Tibet, which Above The Himalaya can organize smoothly. To illustrate, after Bhutan, some travelers fly back to Kathmandu to visit the highlights of Nepal. In case you would like to do some trekking, there are short treks such as the Druk Path Trek (6 days), available in Bhutan, which can be organized in case you come to spend more time.
Photography & Drone Rules
Bhutan is a beautiful place to take photographs, yet it has some simple rules to follow. It is easy to go and take photos of the landscape, valleys, prayer flags, and the exterior of most buildings. Always ask for permission before taking a photograph of people, particularly monks or villagers.
Never take photographs in temples, monasteries, and shrine rooms. Obey your guide when you are not supposed to use a camera. Flash must be avoided in areas where people are allowed to take photos since it can distract people or damage artifacts.
Tourists are not permitted to use drones without special permission from the government, and any that you bring may be confiscated by the customs until you leave, so it is advisable not to carry one. Even without a drone, you’ll capture amazing photos from the ground while following the rules during your Bhutan tour.
Cultural Festivals on the Trail
Bhutan also has numerous colourful religious festivals known as Tshechus, and in your Bhutan 2 nights 3 days trip, you may have included one as long as the dates coincide.
Paro Tshechu (Spring):
This festival is held in March or April at Paro Dzong, and it entails masked dances by the traditional people, blessings with the monks, and the locals wearing their best clothes. In case you plan to come during this period, we can schedule to have the celebration.
Thimphu Tshechu (Autumn):
This is one of the largest festivals in Bhutan that occurs at the end of September or the beginning of October at Tashichho Dzong. It is a great attraction and has several visitors who visit to observe sacred dances and rituals.
There might also be smaller local events going on, like an archery competition or even the national day celebrations during your visit. During festivals, it’s better to reserve in advance.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
The following are just a few guidelines that would enable first-time visitors to enjoy their 2 nights 3 days Bhutan tour. Bring light packs because the weather is unpredictable, and comfortable walking shoes because the Tiger Nest hike is a long walk. Bring a little money with you because credit cards are not very popular, and sometimes, an ATM does not work.
Honor local traditions by wearing simple clothes at places of worship and walking counterclockwise around shrines or prayer wheels. Keep yourself hydrated when it is hot and cover your skin from the sun using sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Evenings in Bhutan are quiet, and so early nights and power cutouts are common phenomena, which hotels typically address effectively.
Get along with locals- greetings such as kuzuzangpo la are well received and can result in cordial communication. Finally, pack light due to baggage restrictions on the Paro flight, and come prepared with necessities like a universal adapter, your personal medicine, and your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
What’s Included?
- All the Bhutan government fees, permits, taxes, and your visa paperwork
- Pick-up and drop-off at the airport when you arrive and leave
- A private car with a driver for your sightseeing and travel during the tour
- A licensed Bhutanese guide who stays with you and helps throughout the trip
- Two nights in clean, comfortable 3-star hotels on a sharing basis
- All your meals in Bhutan — breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day
- Entry tickets for the monasteries, museums, and places listed in the itinerary
- Bottled water during the tour
- All government taxes and service charges
What’s Excluded?
International flights to and from Bhutan
Travel insurance
Personal spending like snacks, drinks, laundry, or phone/internet use
Tips for your guide and driver
Extra costs if flights are delayed or plans change due to weather or other issues
Customize Your Trip 
Enjoy Himalayan scenery with the help of Nepal’s best guides with Government license holders and got training in first-aid, our Trip Leaders, know where you’ll find the best photos, most fascinating wildlife, and the best stream crossings.
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