Highlights of Bhutan

Duration

10 days

On specific dates

on Monday

Guaranteed

with 4 travellers

Max group size

16 travellers

From AUD $6,671

WHAT TO EXPECT

The journey begins with a breathtaking flight into Paro, a verdant valley at 2,200 meters, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks like Chomolhari and home to Bhutan’s only international airport. Guests then travel to Thimphu, Bhutan’s unique capital, blending ancient traditions and modern life. Highlights include Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, and the Folk Heritage Museum. A scenic drive through Dochula Pass leads to Gangtey, a serene valley renowned for its Black-Necked Cranes and the stunning Gangtey Monastery. Stops in Punakha reveal treasures like Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang. Back in Paro, visits to iconic sites like Tiger’s Nest and Chelela Pass conclude this cultural immersion.

Itinerary
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Inclusions
Departure Dates
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Highlights of Bhutan

Day 1: Arrive Paro and Drive to Thimphu
A flight to Paro offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, descending into a valley rich in culture, legends, and scenic beauty at 2,200 meters. Paro is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples, monasteries, and its sole international airport, with the majestic Chomolhari Mountain and Pa Chhu River defining its landscape. After arriving and enjoying lunch, guests drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital blending modernity with tradition. Highlights include Memorial Chorten, dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and a walk along Thimphu’s main street and market. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at 2,320 meters.
Day 2: Thimphu
The day begins with a scenic nature walk to Cheri Monastery, founded in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal as Bhutan’s first monastic retreat. A 14 km drive to Dodena (2,600m) leads to a serene hike starting with a traditional wooden bridge over the Thimphu Chhu River, ascending through tranquil, wooded trails to stunning views from the monastery. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore key landmarks: Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century ridge-top temple; the Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutanese weaving art; and the Folk Heritage Museum, celebrating rural traditions. The day concludes with a visit to Trashichhoedzong and a cultural dinner with a local family.
Day 3: Thimphu to Gangtey
After breakfast, drive to Gangtey, stopping at Dochula Pass (3,080m) to admire the panoramic mountain views, weather permitting, and the beautifully adorned chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags. From here, descend into the valley to join a section of the Trans Bhutan Trail, known as the 'Divine Madman Trail,' tracing the footsteps of Drukpa Kuenley, a revered spiritual figure. Visit Thinleygang Lhakhang, a temple significant for its connection to Bhutan's monastic traditions. After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Gangtey, a stunning open valley surrounded by dense forests. The area is renowned for the winter migration of black-necked cranes and its serene village of Phobjikha, located on the valley floor near the Black Mountain National Park.
Day 4: Gangtey
Take a scenic hike through Phobjikha Valley, home to the rare black-necked cranes, passing through bamboo forests and reaching the village of Kilkhorthang. Continue to Tangjey Lhakhang, a historic temple dedicated to Lord Buddha, then enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, where you can observe the cranes through high-powered scopes and learn about the area's natural and cultural history. Finally, return to the hotel, either by car or a 30-minute walk.
Day 5: Gangtey to Punakha
After breakfast, check out and drive uphill to visit Gangtey Gompa, the largest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan, located on a hill overlooking the valley. The monastery is surrounded by a village of 140 Gomchens who maintain it. After exploring the monastery, take a short walk through Gangtey Village and the local Bazaar. Continue the drive to Punakha, with a brief stop at Kuenphen or Wangdue. Upon arrival in Punakha, check into the hotel and after lunch, embark on a 1.5-hour walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility, believed to bless childless couples. The walk offers a glimpse into rural Bhutanese life as you pass rice fields and the village of Pana.
Day 6: Punakha
Enjoy a scenic hike to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chhorten, a beautiful monument built to promote peace and harmony. The hike offers stunning views of the Mo Chhu river and the surrounding mountains, taking about an hour to ascend and 45 minutes to descend. After the hike, relax with a picnic lunch by the riverside. Post-lunch, explore Punakha, beginning with a visit to the historic Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong has been central to Bhutan's religious and administrative history. Also, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to experience local life, where you can enjoy a warm cup of tea with the villagers.
Day 7: Punakha to Paro
Drive to Paro, a picturesque valley nestled at 2,200 meters above sea level, known for its rich culture, scenic beauty, and ancient legends. Paro is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the country's only international airport. The majestic Chomolhari Mountain towers over the valley, with the Pa Chhu River winding through it. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, then visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, and Thangkha paintings. Next, enjoy a scenic walk to Rinpung Dzong, a historical fortress built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which serves as the spiritual and administrative heart of Paro.
Day 8: Paro
Embark on a 5-hour round-trip hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, perched 900 meters above the Paro valley. Revered as one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites, it is said to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated after arriving on the back of a tigress. After exploring the monastery, enjoy lunch at the Taktshang Cafeteria before returning to the starting point of the hike. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, marking the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. Return to the hotel afterward.
Day 9: Paro
Early in the morning, participate in the Tshewang Ceremony, a special Puja at a monastery in Paro, Thimphu, or Bumthang, aimed at promoting peace, prosperity, and good health, where guests light butter lamps. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast. Post-breakfast, embark on an excursion to Chelela Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest points at 3,988 meters, offering stunning views of the Chomolhari and Jichu Drake mountains, and a vibrant display of prayer flags. Enjoy a hike to Kila Goemba, a serene monastery for Buddhist nuns. Later, experience Bhutanese culture by participating in a traditional dress-wearing session. Finally, explore Ka Ja Throm, a vibrant market that blends modern and traditional aspects of Bhutanese life.
Day 10: Paro Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the Airport to connect flight for onwards journey.

Tour Images

Inclusions

Insider Experiences

Cheri Monastery: Hike through tranquil forests to this historic retreat, Bhutan's first monastic site, founded in 1620.
Dochula Pass: Enjoy panoramic mountain views and visit the sacred chorten and prayer flags at 3,080 meters.
Phobjikha Valley: Walk through serene landscapes, home to the endangered black-necked cranes and stunning views.
Taktshang Monastery (Tiger's Nest): Hike to this iconic cliffside monastery, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated.

Accommodation

9 nights in 3 - 4 star hotels
Meals

Daily breakfast
9 local lunches
9 local dinners

Transport

Airport transfer on arrival and departure
Air-conditioned vehicle
All flights as specified in the itinerary
Touring

English speaking tour guide
All entrance fees
All tipping
Rental of Bhutanese Dress
Bhutan visa fees

SKU: IJDB-SGJ-86-Bhutan-2025 Categories: Bhutan, Small Group Journeys Tags: 10-Days, Bhutan, Small Group Journeys

Departure Dates

START DAY	END DAY	TWIN ROOM	SINGLE ROOM
Monday, 05 May 2025	Wednesday, 14 May 2025	6671	8204
Monday, 01 September 2025	Wednesday, 10 September 2025	6671	8204

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All pricing is reflected in Australian Dollars unless otherwise specifically denoted.

Prices exclude airfares (unless specified), visa fees, travel insurances, and any personal purchases.

Prices are per person sharing a double room. Single and triple rooms rates are available upon request.

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