The Essence of Bhutan

Discover the Best of Bhutan

Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, is famed for its pristine landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich culture offering a unique blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty.

Start your adventure in Thimphu, Bhutan’s bustling capital, where tradition meets modernity. Explore the majestic Tashichho Dzong, visit the National Memorial Chorten, and marvel at the 169-foot Buddha Dordenma statue offering panoramic views of the city. You’ll also experience the vibrant local markets and the Folk Heritage Museum for a glimpse into Bhutanese culture.

Next, embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, crossing the picturesque Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens and stunning Himalayan vistas. In Punakha, venture off the beaten path to explore remote villages that offer an authentic glimpse into rural Bhutanese life. Visit clusters of traditional farmhouses, where you can experience the hospitality of local families and learn about their daily lives and customs. Trek through verdant fields and terraced rice paddies, and discover hidden temples and monasteries nestled in the hills.

Conclude your journey in Paro, home to some of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. Visit the Paro Dzong, an architectural marvel, and the National Museum housed in the ancient Ta Dzong watchtower. The highlight of Paro is the breathtaking hike to Taktsang Monastery, known as Tiger’s Nest, perched precariously on a cliffside 900 meters above the valley floor. This spiritual haven offers mesmerising views and a profound sense of peace.

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KEY FACTS

PEAK TIME

February - June + September - November

PRICE

From £9,900pp $13,000 pp excl. flights

IDEAL LENGTH

10 Days

FLIGHT TIME

10 hours from London
16 hours from NYC

CURRENCY

Bhutanese Ngultrum

LANGUAGE

Dzongkha

Where you'll go

Thimphu

Punakha

Paro

When to go

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Bhutan is the only country in the world that measures its success not by Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but by Gross National Happiness (GNH)! This unique metric reflects Bhutan’s commitment to balancing economic progress with the well-being of its people, preserving its rich cultural heritage, and protecting the environment. So, in Bhutan, happiness is literally a way of life!

Itinerary Highlights

Prayer Ceremony in Thimphu

Experience a serene evening in Thimphu with an exclusive prayer ceremony led by monks, focusing on blessings for peace, prosperity, and health. Following the ceremony, partake in the enchanting tradition of lighting butter lamps, symbolising wisdom and knowledge. This intimate ritual offers a deep connection to Bhutan’s spiritual essence, illuminating the night with the warm glow of these sacred lamps.

Drive along the Chele La Pass and Discover Haa Valley

Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes, offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Jomolhari. Surrounded by lush forests with prayer flags, rhododendrons, and pine trees, the journey features winding roads and breathtaking landscapes. It leads to the remote Haa Valley, less developed than Paro, the picturesque and peaceful valley offers an authentic glimpse of traditional Bhutanese life, similar to that in the remote eastern regions.

An Afternoon of Archery in Paro

Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s national sport with an afternoon of archery. Since becoming the national sport in 1971, archery has been integral to Bhutanese culture, serving as a communal activity that strengthens social bonds. Try your hand at this traditional game and experience the camaraderie and skill that define this beloved pastime. This session offers a fun and authentic insight into a cherished aspect of Bhutanese daily life.

Cooking with a Local Chef

Delve into Bhutan’s culinary heritage with a hands-on cooking session led by a local chef. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like ‘Ema Datshi’ (chili cheese stew) and ‘Momos’ (steamed dumplings), using fresh, local ingredients. Beyond mastering recipes, you’ll gain insights into the cultural significance of Bhutanese cuisine and its role in local celebrations. This immersive experience not only satisfies your taste buds but also fosters a deeper connection with Bhutan’s rich traditions and warm hospitality.

Hike to Taktsang Goemba – ‘Tiger’s Nest’

Embark on a hike to the awe-inspiring Taktsang Goemba, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Nestled amidst dense forests, the ascent takes approximately 2 hours, rewarding you at the summit with breathtaking views. The monastery feels spiritually potent, seemingly defying gravity on its cliffside perch. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. Tigers Nest remains a must-see, an extraordinary testament to Bhutan’s spiritual and natural beauty.

Rinchengang Village

Explore Rinchengang, one of Bhutan’s oldest villages, known for its traditional mud houses and close-knit community. Perched opposite the Wangduephodrang Dzong, this village was established by settlers in the 17th century. Wander through its quaint pathways, meet the locals, and immerse yourself in their enduring customs and way of life. This visit offers a glimpse into the authentic and time-honoured traditions that continue to thrive in Bhutanese rural life.

Itinerary 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 to Bhutan

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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

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