Bhutan

Nestled high in the eastern Himalayas between India and Tibet, Bhutan boasts a dramatic landscape. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, it is perhaps the most intriguing of the Himalayan kingdoms and a luxury trip to the mountain kingdom is all about exploring its splendid natural beauty, gross national happiness, stunning monasteries and rich cultural heritage.
Need to know

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Bhutan is between October to early December and March to early May when the weather is pleasant, dry and sunny. The temperature between regions varies dramatically and depends on the elevation.

Additionally, you can also plan your trip around the annual religious Bhutanese festival (tshechu) held in various monasteries across the valleys at different times in the year. We suggest you speak to one of our travel designers to check whether your travel dates coincide with a tshechu.

IDEAL LENGTH OF A TRIP

We recommend a minimum of 6-8 days on the ground to cover the highlights of the mountain kingdom.

WHERE TO VISIT

For first timers (visiting for 7/8 days), we recommend you visit Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha to experience the country’s dramatic scenery, incredible culture and amazing architecture. If you have extra time, we suggest you also visit the other verdant valleys - Gangtey (renowned for its black-necked cranes) and Bumthang (known for its brilliant hiking/trekking trails).

Itineraries

Each of our itineraries are specially curated and personalized to suit your interests. Here are a few sample itineraries to help you plan your holiday to Bhutan. We can adapt and change any element of these journeys, or design an itinerary from scratch, depending on your wishlist. You may also like to speak to one of our travel designers who will be happy to help you plan your trip to the mountain kingdom.
The wonders of Bhutan (14 days)
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The Last Shangri La (07 days)
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Hiking through Bhutan (08 days)
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Experiences

The mountain kingdom of Bhutan is much more than its splendid natural beauty, gross national happiness, amazing landscape and rich cultural heritage. Gain a deeper insight and experience a slice of Bhutan, away from its usual touristy spots, by immersing yourself in our curated experiences.
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The Essence of Rural Bhutan in Bumthang/Punakha
Dress the part to cook up a Storm in Paro
Painting a Masterpiece in Thimphu
Experience the Local Culture in a Tshechu
Try your hand at Archery in Thimphu
Dance the Masks Away in Paro
Soaking in a Traditional Bath in Gangtey
Lighting the Path Forward in Paro

Our Other Destinations

We also offer luxury bespoke trips to India, Nepal & Sri Lanka. Our travel designers have great insider knowledge on the best kept secrets in the Indian subcontinent. With years of experience in showcasing the region’s highlights and uncovering its hidden gems, they will plan the perfect holiday that exceeds expectations and helps you create memories that last a lifetime.
Nepal
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India
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Sri Lanka
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The Essence of Rural Bhutan in Bumthang/Punakha

Take an excursion to a local village where nothing has changed for generations. Soak in the sights and sounds of the village and interact with its people as you get a glimpse of the everyday nuances of village life. Spend time with a local family and gain an insight into their culture, habits, and way of life. You can also learn the art of brewing a cup of Suja (traditional salted butter tea).

Dress the part to cook up a Storm in Paro

For a deep dive into the local culture, you must do as the Bhutanese do – dress up in their traditional attire and cook up a storm! Learn how to wear the gho (a long robe worn by men that is hoisted to the knee and held in place with a woven cloth belt) or kira (a brightly coloured ankle-length dress worn by women with a short open jacket). Receive a hands-on education of Bhutanese cuisine from a renowned local chef, or a housewife, using techniques and ingredients native to the mountain kingdom.

Painting a Masterpiece in Thimphu

Visit a local art and craft school to learn the age-old art-form Thangkha painting that has been endangered by modernization. Accompanied by an art expert, discover the teachings of Buddhism through this sacred art. Work closely with the artist and nurture your understanding of the iconography, techniques and materials involved in the process of creating this splendid work of art.

Experience the Local Culture in a Tshechu

Every district in Bhutan celebrates a tshechu (the most important festival of the country) annually in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the saint who introduced Buddhism in Bhutan. It is believed that attending a tshechu at least once will wash away all your sins. The highlight of the tshechu is the cham or religious mask dance performed by monks clad in flamboyant costumes. In between dances, locals enact instances of Guru Rimpoche’s life through sacred plays and the atsara (clowns) mimic the dancers by performing comic routines wearing masks with long red noses.

Try your hand at Archery in Thimphu

Channel you inner Robin Hood and try your hand at the national sport of Bhutan. Learn the basics of archery from a professional archer using traditional bamboo bows or modern compound bows. Put your strength, precision, and concentration skills to the test! Pit yourself against our experts, challenge family or friends to a healthy competition.

Dance the Masks Away in Paro

Sneak a peek into the remarkable cultural and religious traditions as you witness a dynamic performance of the famed masked dance. Shake a leg with the dancers dressed in traditional multi-hued brocade outfits and colourful intricate masks, as they dance to the rhythmic beats of trumpets and drums. For those of you who have two left feet, professional dancer will guide you through the basic steps.

Soaking in a Traditional Bath in Gangtey

There is no better way to end your day’s adventure than by soaking in a traditional Bhutanese bath. This special wellness treatment uses heated river stones that crackle when placed in water. It is believed that the heated water, the minerals released from the rock and the local herbs all combine to produce therapeutic benefits for joint pains, hypertension, stomach disorders and arthritis.

Lighting the Path Forward in Paro

Experience sheer divinity and spiritual upliftment by partaking of a private Tshewang (traditional prayer) ceremony in a monastery. A religious expert will walk you through the ceremony, whilst also outlining its significance. Join a team of crimson-clad monks as they gather to chant prayers for peace, prosperity and your good health. Light the butter lamps that adorn the altar of the monastery and signify enlightenment.