Essential Bhutan

This itinerary provides a more in-depth introduction to Bhutan allowing you to explore the highlights, gaining an understanding of what makes this country so special. Through this trip you’ll get to experience spell-binding rural scenery, with lush green terraced rice-paddies rolling up to high mountain passes with Buddhist prayers fluttering in the wind, and snow-capped mountains beyond.

1. Days 1-2: Thimphu

   Starting the journey in Thimphu, you’ll have one night on arrival in this capital city. Thimphu offers a fantastic mix of ancient and traditional culture combined with an ever-growing café and restaurant scene. We have included a private guide for you, and throughout your time in Bhutan, to make sure that you get the most out of your adventure. Spend your days exploring the highlights including the Takin Preserve, Centenary Farmers Market, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Folk Heritage and BBS Tower Viewpoint.

   Accommodation: Taj Tashi (1 night)

2. Days 2-4: Punakha

   From Thimphu you’ll then drive through the magnificent mountain pass of Dochu La with 108 memorial stupas into Punakha, where you will be spending the following two nights. This region of Bhutan is known for its outdoor activities and fantastic trekking routes due to its lower elevation and tropical surrounds. Upon arrival, enjoy a hike through lush rice fields into the temple of Chimmi Lhakhang, dedicated to Bhutan's favorite saint.

   As the new day beckons, you will enjoy another short hike up to the Khansam Yulley, a relatively new temple which comes with a fantastic view of the Mo Chhu Valley down below. Afterwards, we head into a one-hour Butterfly Trail through the farmland, stopping off for tea in the local home. Of course, it is also home to the beautiful Punakha Dzong, a highlight of any visit to Punakha, and we have included a visit here with your guide.

   On your final day in Punakha, we visit the stunning hilltop nunnery for a unique chance to interact with the local nuns, before setting off into Gangtey.

   Accommodation: COMO Uma Punakha (2 nights)

3. Days 4-6: Gangtey

   You'll then head further east to Gangtey, which is one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. During the months of November to February, Gangtey becomes home to the sacred and revered Black Neck Cranes making it a beautiful time to visit, especially for keen ornithologists. We have included visits to Gangtey Goempa overlooking the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, alongside a 1.5-hour nature trail through the jungle before coming out on the valley floor. We can also include a hike through Longtey Village with colorful rhododendron forest towards the idyllic Kumbu village.

   Accommodation: Gangtey Lodge (2 nights)

4. Days 6-8: Bumthang

   A 5-hour scenic drive carries you through Pele-La and Yotong-La pass as you make a brief stop at Trongsa Dzong, an ancestral home of Bhutan's royal family. Finally, you will arrive in the remote Bumthang, relatively untouched from classic trail and where you will find some of the most charming sights in Bhutan.

   Bumthang is the religious heartland and home of the largest temples in Bhutan. This day tour will bring you to visit Jakar Dzong, one of the largest in the country, hike through Kurjey Lhakhang's beautiful landscape to Tamshing Monastery, and finally experience first-hand the unique local cottage, brewery and cheese industries.

   From around mid-July to the second week of August, we also arrange a matsutake mushroom-picking activities in the forest of Ura village.

   Accommodation: Yozerling Lodge (2 nights)

5. Fly from Bumthang to Paro

6. Days 8-11: Paro

   To finish your trip, you will fly back to Paro for your final three nights. With Paro having the only international airport in Bhutan this is a natural place to end your trip. On your arrival, we can organize a moderate half-day biking into the tranquil village surrounding Paro and learn about their farming traditions. Between July to August, we can also organize apple plucking activities.

   As another day beckons, enjoy an off-the-beaten hike to Zurig Lhakhang for a spectacular view of the Paro Valley.

   However, on top of that we like to save the best to last and have included a hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery for you which is spectacular and justifiably world renowned, concluding with a home-cooked dinner on a local farmhouse before you bid farewell to the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan.

   Accommodation: COMO Uma Paro (3 nights)

Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang & Paro