Join co-owner Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell in Bhutan, a small group trip through a country where tradition and landscape remain deeply intertwined.

This carefully crafted itinerary takes you through Bhutan’s central valleys, from Thimphu to Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro, offering a natural progression through some of the kingdom’s most remarkable scenery and cultural treasures. Each day moves at a gentle, unhurried pace, allowing time for walks through villages and valleys, quiet reflection in monasteries, and the chance to simply absorb the wide Himalayan vistas.

This journey is crafted for authenticity and a true sense of place. Private encounters with local communities, visits to cultural landmarks, and experiences such as prayer ceremonies, riverside picnics, valley hikes, and the ascent to the iconic Tiger’s Nest are all designed with care. With Christopher as your host and the insights of a local guide, each day unfolds naturally, from the gentle rhythm of village life to the quiet grandeur of Himalayan peaks, leaving space for discovery, reflection, and moments that stay with you long after the journey ends.

KEY INFORMATION

Dates

October 2026

Price

From GBP£TBC USD To be confirmed excl. flights

Length

9 nights

Flight

We suggest flying either via Delhi or Bangkok.

Currency

Bhutanese Ngultrum

Group size

10-12

Where you'll go
Thimphu, Bhutan

Thimphu

Gangtey, Bhutan

Gangtey

Punakha, Bhutan

Punakha

Tigers Nest, Paro, Bhutan

Paro

Country Highlights

Discover Thimphu

Begin your Bhutan journey in Thimphu, the nation’s vibrant capital, where tradition and modernity coexist. A short drive north brings you to Buddha Dordenma, a monumental gilded bronze statue overlooking the valley. More than a landmark, it embodies Bhutan’s spiritual heart, offering a first glimpse of the country’s culture, values, and the presence that defines its landscapes and people.

Prayer ceremony at Gangtey village monastery

You will join a prayer ceremony at Gangtey Monastery, set amidst the stunning Phobjikha Valley. Inside the main hall, monks of all ages chant ancient mantras, accompanied by drums, cymbals, and long horns. Surrounded by colourful thangkas, ornate carvings, and the scent of incense, you will witness a timeless ritual that reflects Bhutan’s living Buddhist traditions.

Longtey Hike

Gangtey, Bhutan

In Gangtey, embark on the Longtey hike, following a trail that winds through fragrant forests and lush greenery. As you reach the ridge, the Gangtey Valley unfolds below, offering sweeping views of terraced fields and scattered villages. The path then descends gently toward Kumbu village, where the valley’s calm atmosphere invites you to pause and simply take in the scenery.

Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang

Punakha Bhutan

Begin at Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, perched at the confluence of the Po and Mo Chhu rivers. Explore its coronation hall and the resting place of the Shabdrung while learning its history. Stroll across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, then visit Chimi Lhakhang, the ‘temple of fertility,’ reaching it via a scenic trail through rice fields to the village of Pana.

Rinchengang Village

Rinchengang Village is special because it offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Bhutanese rural life while being set in the picturesque Punakha Valley. It retains its quiet charm, with ancient houses, local artisans, and farmers at work. Strolling through its quiet lanes, you’ll see farmers at work, prayer flags fluttering, and the rhythms of daily life unfolding.

Ta Dzong and Rinpung Dzong

Paro, Bhutan

On arrival in Paro, visit Ta Dzong, home to the National Museum, with its extensive collection of thangka paintings, textiles, weapons, and historic artefacts. A short 20-minute walk along the trail leads to Rinpung Dzong (‘fortress of the heaped jewels’), where your guide will share its fascinating history as you explore this iconic Paro landmark.

Hike to Taktsang Goemba - 'The Tiger’s Nest'

You will hike to Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most impressive and iconic monastery. The trail through dense forest takes about two hours, leading to a cliffside complex that includes Kyichu Lhakhang and Taktsang Lhakhang. Perched dramatically on the rock face, the monastery is famed as the site where Guru Rinpoche arrived on a flying tigress. A must-see, it offers one of Bhutan’s most spectacular views.

Chele La Pass and Kila Goemba

Drive along Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, adorned with hundreds of prayer flags and offering breathtaking views of Jomolhari, one of Bhutan’s most sacred peaks, and Jichu Drak, known for its striking twin summits. Continue on a 2-hour round hike to Kila Goemba, a mountainside monastery where Buddhist nuns dedicate their lives to prayer and meditation.

Country Highlights

Our tailor-made journeys include

  • A dedicated Destination Expert who will curate your itinerary from scratch, tailoring it to your preferences + interests
  • Private + extraordinary under-the-radar experiences
  • Access to the very best guides + experts to bring the destination to life
  • Private international airport transfers in destination
  • The MyCazLoyd app to view your itinerary offline anywhere, anytime
  • 24/7 support whilst travelling
  • ATOL protection to give you total peace of mind

Let us plan your perfect trip

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