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  • Bhutan: Hidden Kingdom in the Himalayas
Overview

Discover Western Bhutan on this Cultural Journey

We’d like to let you in on a little secret – The Kingdom of Bhutan. Typically people we tell about Bhutan ask "Where is Bhutan?" and that’s just the way we like it. It is this anonymity that Bhutan has preserved so well, for so many years, that makes it special. The Kingdom of Bhutan is a hidden gem that is often compared to Tibet before the Chinese invasion, and Nepal without the budget backpackers.

Bhutan lies along the lofty ridges of the Himalayas – a remarkable land where the well-preserved countryside, architecture, and culture appear lost in time. The capital city, Thimphu, is said to be the only capital in the world without traffic lights. Our walks in Punakha reveal impressive dzongs, while Paro’s location along ancient trade routes has created a rich culture, encapsulated by its unique monasteries, such as the striking Tiger’s Nest. Let us introduce you to Bhutan, a truly peaceful kingdom!

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

Amazing!

★★★★★
5 5 1
Amazing guide with exceptional knowledge of culture, history and geography of Bhutan!

The Last erthly Shangri-la!

★★★★★
5 5 1
We hear the term Shangri-la and think of a utopia. Bhutan is the last earthly Shangri-la, a feast for the eyes and all your senses while the natural landscapes, colorfully dressed people, and Himalayan backdrop transport travelers to another place. Our guide Kinley made this Boundless Journeys trip unforgettable. His passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge of Bhutan was plus plus excellent everyday!

Eye opening experience

★★★★☆
4 5 1
The cultural experience of traveling to Bhutan was so eye opening. There were so many traditional practices the people hold onto while also adapting to some more modern conveniences. It is a beautiful country where you constantly go straight up to get anywhere. Loved the whole experience!

A Life Changing trip

★★★★★
5 5 1
My friend and I embarked on this journey both seeking healing. The trip was all we had hoped for and more. Dawa, our guide and Thinley, our driver were so caring and attentive to our every need. Bhutan is truly a country of "Gross National Happiness." We both felt so privileged to experience it.

A wonderful experience

★★★★★
5 5 1
Everything about this trip was outstanding. The destination and the exposure to the culture was fantastic and for that I need to thank our guides, who were our connection to the culture. Their energy, enthusiasm, and ability to answer questions was amazing. By the end of the trip our group of 12 felt like family, a feat to which I give credit to our guides. Everything seemed to go smoothly and we were constantly being surprised in a very good way vs. having things hyped in advance. They also exhibited incredible patience with our never-ending questions. I must also say that our good-humored driver, Karma, also added to the wonderful experience.

Amazing trip

★★★★★
5 5 1
Our trip to Bhutan was amazing. I enjoyed it enormously and I'm so glad that I went. Leki and Sonam were wonderful guides! They made they trip so enjoyable!

Absolutely Top Notch

★★★★★
5 5 1
In today's often tumultuous western world, a trip to Bhutan provides the traveler with a chance to take an enormous deep breath. It's a journey to a country with no traffic lights, where the mountains aren't mined or summited, where the wildlife isn't hunted, and the quality of life is measured in happiness and not how much can be extracted from the land. It's a place that stays with you, long after you leave. It's a place that makes you smile.

It exceeded my high expectations

★★★★★
5 5 1
Bhutan has been a long-time desired adventure. Was not sure I could climb Tiger's Nest at 84 yrs. of age and definitely wanted to include that personal accomplishment. The entire trip exceeded my high expectations of visiting Bhutan. Our guides were superb with knowledge, warmth, and humor. An atmosphere of camaraderie was established immediately between fellow guests leading to an even more delightful experience. It would be impossible to bestow enough admiration of our talented driver who manipulated those winding, narrow roads.

A+ Trip

★★★★★
5 5 1
The trip was a long-time dream come true. This country where happiness is all around you, was everything I expected. My guide, Sangay, was fabulous. His charismatic personality found us new friends everywhere we went. He was a true ambassador for his country, knowing the culture and honoring the Buddhist religion. He showed and shared with me an intense love for his people. Sangay answered every question I had. He also gave me choices, so I could design my trip to Bhutan to my interests, i.e. visiting schools, going on longer treks, even took me to a yak yarn shop. We had so many laughs together & I learned a ton. A+ trip. Thank you Boundless Journeys for the trip of a life time. From beginning to end everything was smooth.

A peaceful and very spiritual adventure

★★★★★
5 5 1
A peaceful and very spiritual adventure with just enough exercise and cultural indoctrination.

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Itinerary &
Accommodations

Itinerary & Accommodations

Day 1

Arrival in Bhutan; transfer to Thimphu

  • Activity Overview: Walking on local paths and dirt roads
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours

Welcome to Bhutan! We land in Paro at Bhutan's only international airport. We are met by our local guide and transferred to Thimphu, home of the royal family. Before becoming Bhutan's official national capital in 1961, Thimphu was a simple, rural farming valley. Small and secluded, it is unlike any other world capital. The city is quiet, and may be the only capital in the world without a traffic light.

Our exploration of Thimphu depends on flight arrival times and we may visit the National Textile Museum, the Heritage Museum, or the Giant Buddha above town, giving us some excellent views of the Thimphu Valley.

Accommodations
Hotel Druk

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city’s landmarks, near the famous Thimphu clock tower and within walking distance of the main markets. Constructed in traditional Bhutanese style, this distinctive, four-star deluxe hotel is relaxed yet elegant, with all the necessary comforts and amenities. Hotel Druk offers newly refurbished, modern guestrooms with spacious accommodations; a soothing spa; and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Day 2

Cheri Gompa and The Choki School of Arts

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on local paths and hiking trails
  • Activity Level: easy to moderate
  • Activity Length: 2 hours (3 miles) with 1,300' elevation gain and loss (highest elevation: 9,186')

Our hike today begins at a small village near the boundary of Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest protected area in the country. The area is home to several endangered species, including: the takin, snow leopard, blue sheep, tiger, red panda, and the Himalayan black bear. The trail climbs steadily to Cheri Gompa, a small monastery perched on the hill with a view of the Thimphu Valley. After touring the monastery, we descend on the same route back to our tour vehicle where we drive home of the Choki School of Arts. The Choki School provides free, skills-related education in the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan to Bhutanese children who are unable to complete their formal education.

Before dinner, we speak with a local expert to learn more about Bhutan's unique culture and its remarkable Gross National Happiness concept.

Accommodations
Hotel Druk

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city’s landmarks, near the famous Thimphu clock tower and within walking distance of the main markets. Constructed in traditional Bhutanese style, this distinctive, four-star deluxe hotel is relaxed yet elegant, with all the necessary comforts and amenities. Hotel Druk offers newly refurbished, modern guestrooms with spacious accommodations; a soothing spa; and a stylish bar and restaurant.

Day 3

Transfer to Punakha (approximately 4 hours*); Temple of the Divine Madman

  • Activity Overview: Walking on local paths
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours with 131' elevation gain (highest elevation: 4,921')

Today we transfer to the Punakha Valley, our home for the next two nights. The road to Punakha crosses the Dochula Pass (10,230'), offering a great view of the eastern Himalayan mountains.

On the road to Punakha, we stop in a small village where a short walk brings us to Chime Lhakang, a temple dedicated to the Lama Drukpa Kunley. Drukpa Kunley is one of Bhutan's favorite saints, and is more commonly known as the "Divine Madman." He traveled throughout Bhutan and Tibet using songs, humor, and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings, believing that the formality of the clergy and social conventions were keeping people from understanding true Buddhism.

Accommodations
Dhumra Farm Resort

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extroadinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

Day 4

Khamsung Yuley Namgyel Temple to Punakha Dzong

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on local paths
  • Activity Level: Easy to moderate
  • Activity Length: 3-4 hours with 656' elevation gain (highest elevation: 4,921')

We begin today's hike by first ascending a series of switchbacks to the Khamsung Yuley Namgyel Temple. From this modern temple, we are afforded grand views of the Mo Chu River Valley below. We then descend from the temple and follow a well-worn path down the valley through rice fields and small villages. Along the way we are rewarded with stunning views — the terraced rice paddies providing an exotic backdrop to the river below.

After enjoying a picnic lunch along the river, we continue our walk to the Punakha Dzong. Constructed in 1637, the Punakha Dzong was the second of Bhutan's dzongs and for many years it served as the seat of the government. Today it is the home to Bhutan's spiritual leader, the Chief Abbot Je Khempo, who resides here with 1,000 monks during the winter months.

Following our hike, we have the special opportunity to visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute, where we meet the resident monks and learn about their lives.

Accommodations
Dhumra Farm Resort

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extroadinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

Day 5

Transfer to Paro (approximately 5 hours*); visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the Paro Dzong, and Bhutan’s National Museum

  • Activity Overview: Walking on dirt roads and local paths
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours

Today we return to Paro, catching another glimpse of the mighty Himalayas over the Dochula Pass. Upon our arrival in Paro, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Kyichu Lhakhang, meaning "twin temples," is believed to have been built in 659 AD by King Songtsen of Tibet, and reflects the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. The temple is one of 108 that were built throughout the Himalayas in one day in an effort to subdue a mighty ogress; it is still believed to hold her left foot in place.

We then make our way by vehicle to the National Museum. The museum's collection includes ancient artifacts, weapons, antique thangkha (painted or embroidered religious pictures), textiles, and stamps.

Finally, we head to the valley's magnificent Rinpung Dzong. If we are fortunate, we may have the opportunity to explore within the dzong's mighty walls. However, if the Administrative Body is in session, we must admire from the outside.

Accommodations
Rema Resort

Rema Resort
Paro, Bhutan

Rema Hotel is situated along the banks of the Paro River with rooms enjoying scenic views of the rice paddies and farm fields of the tranquil Paro Valley. The hotel features stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture, yet provides modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

Day 6

Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on hiking trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous
  • Activity Length: 4-5 hours (4.5 miles) on hiking trails with 1,650' elevation gain and loss (highest elevation: 10,171')

This morning, we hike to the famous cliff-side hermitage called Taktsang — "Tiger's Nest" — a monastic retreat built into a sheer cliff face high above the Paro Valley. Our hike begins on the valley floor and is a steady uphill climb on a wide hiking trail that switchbacks through pine forests, with glimpses of Tiger's Nest along the way. We pass water-powered prayer wheels and mani stones, as well as a shrine where a high lama was supposedly born — all reminders that for many, this is not just a hike, but a spiritual pilgrimage. Legend has it that the Tibetan Buddhist saint, Padmasambhava, flew across the Himalayas on the back of a tiger and landed here, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan.

We return to the valley floor, where we enjoy a trail side picnic lunch before heading back to our hotel. We have some time this afternoon to unwind and relax after our hike, or perhaps stroll the Paro market before dinner.

Accommodations
Rema Resort

Rema Resort
Paro, Bhutan

Rema Hotel is situated along the banks of the Paro River with rooms enjoying scenic views of the rice paddies and farm fields of the tranquil Paro Valley. The hotel features stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture, yet provides modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

Day 7

Cheli La Pass to Kila Gompa

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on hiking trails and dirt roads
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Activity Length: 2-3 hours with 1,300' elevation loss (highest elevation: 12,500')

The day's adventure starts early as we set out on a road that climbs almost 5,000' above the valley floor to Chele La Pass (12,500'). If the weather is clear, we enjoy glimpses of some of Bhutan's highest peaks. Upon reaching the pass, western Bhutan appears before us, with its unspoiled Haa valley, the mountains of Sikkim, Mt. Chomolhari, Tibet, and the patchwork fields of the Paro Valley.

We hike along a ridge through meadows before re-entering forests of larch, spruce, hemlock, fir and rhododendron. After about two hours, we see the Kila Gompa, home to approximately 30 nuns. Kila means "spiritual dagger," and a visit to the temple is often thought to tame the negative emotions of anger, ignorance, and greed.

Following our visit and picnic lunch, we descend on a dirt road that winds through conifers and rhododendrons. We arrive at our vehicle to return to Paro.

This evening, we celebrate our journey through this amazing kingdom, and the kind welcome we have received from the generous people of Bhutan.

Accommodations
Rema Resort

Rema Resort
Paro, Bhutan

Rema Hotel is situated along the banks of the Paro River with rooms enjoying scenic views of the rice paddies and farm fields of the tranquil Paro Valley. The hotel features stunning traditional Bhutanese architecture, yet provides modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

Day 8

Departure from Paro

We are transferred to the airport for an early morning departure from Paro. From here we say farewell before our journey home, or continue on to other exciting destinations.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

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Dates &
Prices

Dates And Prices

2024
Trip Length

8 Days

Trip Dates

Sep 28-Oct 5, 2024

Oct 26-Nov 2, 2024

Festival Date: March 17

2024 Land Cost

From $5,595 Per Person


Internal Airfare

$995 Per Person

Bangkok-Paro-Bangkok; subject to change

Single Supplement

First two reserved:$

Additional:$495

See single supplement policy below.

Pricing Notes

MAKE IT PRIVATE

9+ Guests: $5,595 per person

5 to 8 Guests: $6,095 per person

Make it Private price is based on Land Cost only, and a guarantee of the specified number of guests in double occupancy. For groups smaller than the numbers shown, or those requiring single occupancy, we reserve the right to adjust the per person price. Additionally, some trips have minimum group sizes. Please call 1-800-941-8010 for details.

FESTIVAL DEPARTURES

Our festival departure dates are based on the festival calendar when trips were scheduled. Festival dates may be subject to change, as the local authorities have the right to change the festival dates at any time. If this is the case we will do our best to adjust the itinerary so that we can attend the festival. Call 1-800-941-8010 for details and sample itineraries.

 

What's Included

  • Expert leadership
  • All accommodations
  • All meals
  • Local wine and beer with included dinners
  • All on-tour ground transportation
  • All activities as noted in the itinerary
  • Bhutan visa
  • Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To
Expect

What To Expect

Physical Activity

Boundless Journeys trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Hidden Kingdom in the Himalayas is rated 2, easy to moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks and hikes on this trip are easy to moderate, generally from 2-5 hours in length, with minimal vehicle support. Some of the hikes will involve some steep ascents and descents, however the terrain is not technical. A few days involve drives on narrow, winding roads.

Meeting Point

The guide will meet you at the Paro, Bhutan International Airport upon arrival of your flight on Day 1.

Departure Point

Paro, Bhutan International Airport in time for your departing flight on Day 8.

Traveling To and From

Most Convenient Airport:
Bangkok International Airport, Bangkok, Thailand (airport code BKK)

Meeting Time and Place:
Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you at the Paro, Bhutan airport upon the arrival of your flight from Bangkok (other regional airports upon request).

Departure Time and Place:
Paro, Bhutan in time for the departure of your flight to Bangkok (other regional airports upon request).

Weather

The mountainous areas of Bhutan have pronounced rainy and dry seasons. The driest weather and clearest skies are typically in October and November and it is the harvest season. During March through May, beautiful flowers are in bloom and it is the panting and ploughing time of year. The months of December through February are clear and cool (can be below freezing at night) and it is the shoulder season, so you will encounter fewer visitors. June through August is the monsoon season and it is generally not recommended to travel to Bhutan at this time of year. You may obtain more detailed weather information at www.weatherbase.com.

Paro

March

High: 58
Low: 33

April

High: 64
Low: 40

September

High: 74
Low: 53

October

High: 66
Low: 45

November

High: 57
Low: 34

Punakha

March

High: 76
Low: 48

April

High: 76
Low: 53

September

High: 86
Low: 69

October

High: 82
Low: 66

November

High: 72
Low: 55

Thimphu

March

High: 61
Low: 39

April

High: 68
Low: 45

September

High: 74
Low: 59

October

High: 67
Low: 42

November

High: 64
Low: 41

When to Go

Bhutan is generally delightful for hiking in the spring and fall. The driest weather and clearest skies are typically in late September, October and November. In the months of March, April and May, beautiful flowers are in bloom, and you will encounter fewer travelers.

The Altitude

Our trip begins and ends in Paro, which is situated at 7,300' in the foothills of the Himalayas. Our hotel in Thimphu is at approximately 7,500'. We then move to the Punakha Valley, which offers a relatively low elevation of approximately 4,300'. Our walks and hikes will take place at elevations from 4,300' to 12,500'. There is time to move at a comfortable pace, allowing the group to adjust to the altitude and mountain air. Staying well-hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effects of altitude that you may feel.

Accommodations

This itinerary includes a combination of the standard and deluxe hotel options available in Bhutan. Although the hotels in Bhutan cannot be compared to international standards, they are comfortable and offer all necessary facilities. We believe that any inconveniences due to these modest accommodations are far outweighed by the unforgettable experience of visiting Bhutan. If you prefer to stay in luxury hotels, please contact us to discuss a private journey.

Due to the unique tourism policy in Bhutan, we are unable to confirm which hotels we will be using until four weeks prior to departure. The accommodations listed will most likely be what we can expect, but may alter due to availability.

When to Reserve

It is important to reserve your trip early, as the airlines flying into Bhutan will only accept reservations with the full payment of the ticket. Therefore we are unable to hold group seats in advance of reservations. Seats can only be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit, as well as the payment of $850 for these flights (subject to change). Please contact our office with any questions regarding these important policies.

Development in Bhutan

Although visiting Bhutan in many ways is like stepping back in time and has been a longtime favorite of Boundless Journeys’ travelers for this reason, it is important to understand that this evolving society is also eager to keep pace in the modern world. While the government is approaching the development of their country with sensitivity towards preserving the environment and culture, you can still expect to encounter some of the less positive signs of modernization. Some examples include: road construction projects that may hinder driving or cause noise and dust; litter in developed areas; and begging. We ask you to visit Bhutan with an open mind and leave any rigid expectations about the pristine nature of the country behind. It is important to embrace what you see and experience without judgment and recognize that Bhutan, just as any country, is struggling to be a part of this complex and rapidly changing world. We are confident that with this attitude, the Bhutan you experience will be a fascinating and memorable place.

Cuisine

Bhutanese dishes borrow elements of Indian and Chinese cuisine, however it is also unique in its style and tastes. One of the most distinguishing features of Bhutanese cuisine is the ubiquitous chili. The Bhutanese are passionate about chili; you will see them spread all over to dry - on the roadsides, on rooftops and in courtyards. Ema datse, a dish made with chilis and cheese, is a spicy favorite. Some excellent non-spicy options include kewa datse (potatoes and cheese sauce), and shamu datse (mushrooms with cheese sauce). Bhutanese also love momos. Though a Tibetan specialty, these dumplings now occupy a permanent place in Bhutanese cuisine. Chicken or pork momos are favored, but cheese momos are most common. Another important feature of this exotic cuisine is the use of rice, found in various forms in dishes ranging from breakfast to dinner.
We do our best to offer a la carte meals at unique local establishments, however, options are quite limited in the smaller towns, so many of the meals will be served buffet-style at our hotels. There are usually continental, Bhutanese, Chinese, and Indian dishes served.

While we do our best to offer our guests the best possible meals and food available in Bhutan, it is important to know that the food there is basic and does not offer the variety and quality that we may be accustomed to at home. Please travel to Bhutan with an open mind and do not have high expectations in this regard and you will not be disappointed. Vegetarians can easily be accommodated with advance notice.

Guides

Featured Guides

About Our Guides

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

From $5,595 / person* *airfare not included
8 Days
Reserve This Tour
  • Departure Dates: Sep 28-Oct 5, 2024
    Oct 26-Nov 2, 2024
Festival Date: March 17
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Activity Level 2 Easy to Moderate

Easy to moderate walking and hiking, 3-5 hours per day; easy to moderate touring; some long drives on narrow, winding roads.

Read about our Activity Levels

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

Prefer a Custom Tour?

Questions?

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1-800-941-8010

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