A striking place of magic and myth, the lush Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan brims with a wealth of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring spiritual and historical attractions. Perched high in the Himalayan Mountains, it is the world’s last remaining Buddhist kingdom, and has earned the nickname the Last Shangri-La. In addition to the stunning landscapes dotted with golden-roofed temples and fortress-like monasteries, travelers to this country will also experience the strong sense of culture and tradition that binds the kingdom. Unique in today’s world, Bhutan practices a “high value, low impact” approach to tourism and has developed the philosophy of Gross National Happiness; where economic prosperity is measured using a holistic approach of well-being, instead of gross domestic product. With over 70% of the country covered by forest, Bhutan is also the only carbon negative county in the world.
Three moments you’ll never forget
Savor the majestic mountains and emerald green valleys as you hike to the sacred Taktsang Monastery (or Tiger’s Nest) which clings to a cliff at 3,120 meters above sea level in the upper Paro Valley.
Walk through the architectural marvels of one of Bhutan’s most magnificent structures - the Punakha Dzong. Known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” this dzong is the second oldest and second largest in Bhutan.
During the Jambay Lhakhang Festival, find yourself mesmerized by one of the most magnificent dance festivals of the year called Terchham preformed to chase away evil spirits and bring peace and tranquility to the valley.
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DAY 1
Bangkok, Thailand
Arrive in Bangkok and check in to the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your flight. This evening, gather with Gray Wintz and your fellow travelers for welcome cocktails followed by dinner.
DAY 2
Bangkok / Paro, Bhutan / Thimpu
Board our early-morning flight to Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, depart overland for Thimpu, Bhutan’s capital city and the main residence of the king. A city tour includes the Memorial Stupa and a stop at one of the world’s largest seated Buddha statues, perched on a hill overlooking Thimphu. Browse the Kaja Throm Market before checking in to the Druk Hotel in the afternoon with the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore on your own.
DAY 3
Thimpu
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour of Thimpu. Highlights include the Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne room and offices of the King, the Folk Heritage Museum, Traditional School of Arts & Crafts, National Textile Museum, and Handmade Paper Factory. There will also be time to shop at the crafts bazaar where we will find a variety of locally made masks, paintings, textiles, and more.
DAY 4
Thimpu / Paro / Bumthang
Return to Paro this morning, and board our flight to Bumthang, the religious heartland of Bhutan and home to many of the country’s oldest and most sacred monasteries. Our tour begins at Kurje Lhakang where it is believed that those who crawl through the rock passage at Sangay Lhakhang will leave their sins behind. Then visit with locals at a nearby farmhouse where we will be treated to tea and traditional snacks. Continue to Tamshing Monastery and the impressive Kencho-sum Monastery. Check in to the Mountain Lodge Resort for dinner and overnight.
DAY 5 & 6
Bumthang
Spend two full days exploring the lovely valleys of Bumthang. First, we’ll visit Jakar Dzong, or “Castle of the White Bird.” This was the seat of the first king of Bhutan and is located on a picturesque ridge overlooking the Cheokhor Valley. In the evening, head to the Jambay Lhakhang temple to attend the Jambay Lhakhang Festival – one of Bhutan’s most important festivals commemorating the founding of the temple and honoring Guru Rinpoche. A highlight tonight is the opportunity to witness Terchham (the naked dance) preformed to chase away evil spirits and bring peace and tranquility to the valley.
The next day, return to Jambay Lhakhang for a full day of festivities. Mingle with locals as we watch a variety of ritual dances held in the temple courtyard. The dances center around religious and moral themes, and often involve elaborate costumes and colorful masks.
DAY 7
Bumthang / Trongsa
Today, drive to Trongsa via Yotongla Pass, making stops for photography along the way. In the Chumey Valley, learn about the production of Yathra, a colorful hand-woven woolen cloth, at the Yathra Weaving Center. After lunch in Trongsa, visit Trongsa Dzong, the country’s largest fortress and ancestral home of the royal family, and Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that now houses a museum with displays of royal memorabilia. Check in to Yangkhil Resort for dinner and overnight.
DAY 8
Trongsa / Phobjikha Valley
This morning depart for a full day drive to the glacial-carved Phobjikha Valley with stops to appreciate the stunning mountain vistas. At nearly 11,000 feet, Pelela Pass offers breathtaking views of forested mountain slopes surrounding verdant Phobjikha Valley. On the way, we’ll visit the 18th-century Chendebji Stupa and the villages of Sephu and Rukubji. Check in to the Dewachan Hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 9
Phobjika Valley
Spend the day hiking through this magical valley, keeping an eye out for birds and wildlife. We will visit the local Ecology Center and learn more about how sustainable tourism contributes to conservation of the natural environment. Later, pay a visit to resident families to learn more about the customs and traditions of Bhutan.
DAY 10
Phobjika Valley / Punakha Valley
Enjoy a scenic drive into the Punakha Valley, the former capital of Bhutan and seat of government until 1955. Along the way, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to fertility built by Lama Drupka Kunley, one of Bhutan’s favorite saints, nicknamed “The Divine Madman,” for his eccentric behavior. After lunch, visit the 17th-century Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” Check in to the Meri Puensum Hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 11
Punakha Valley
After breakfast, take the short drive to Tashithang for a hike through lovely semi-tropical forest where we may spot several species of wild orchids. After this, visit the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful temple dramatically set on a ridge overlooking the countryside. Then take a short downhill hike through pine forest and rice fields. Return to our hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 12
Punakha Valley / Thimphu / Paro
After breakfast, depart overland for Paro. On the way, stop at the Royal Botanical Garden. Keep an eye out for resident birds as we wander colorful trails lined with numerous species of rhododendron. Continue over Dochula Pass into Thimphu where we’ll enjoy lunch. Upon arrival in Paro, take a tour of the ancient fortress of Paro Dzong. The next stop is Ta Dzong, a defense watchtower and now serving as the National Museum holding a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. Check in to the Rema Resort for our festive farewell dinner and overnight.
DAY 13
Paro
Today is dedicated to Bhutan’s most famous and most photographed monastery: Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff above the Paro Valley, this is the site where Guru Padmasambhava, who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated in a cave for three months in the 8th century. A wonderful hike, coupled with dramatic scenery and the melodic murmur of chanting monks is an expedition highlight. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. This evening, gather at our hotel for dinner.
DAY 14
Paro / Bangkok, Thailand
After a morning at leisure and lunch, board our flight to Bangkok. Check in to the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 15
Bangkok / Homeward
Board your independent homeward flight.
trip dates
October 12 – 26, 2024
Departure
The trip starts and ends in Bangkok, Thailand
“Bhutan remains one of my most favorite destinations on earth. Name any other country where the significance of the Gross National Happiness is valued more than the Gross National Product.
This itinerary distinguishes itself by the wisdom of its design. By flying in one direction, we avoid repeating days of roundtrip road travel and therefore gifting ourselves with greater time to cover a wider variety of places. Three nights in remote Bumthang located halfway across the country and fittingly called 'the Heart of Bhutan.' On to gorgeous Trongsa and then Phobjika Valley – a sanctuary of the endangered black-neck crane, and a natural Himalayan paradise. Then the magnificent and historical Punakha Valley. Our last days are crowned by our exploration of the Paro Valley, including the renowned and unforgettable Tiger's Nest. We'll have generations of my friends to visit. Join me as we experience the spirit of these most beautiful people.”
— GARY WINTZ
More Detail
PRICING
Per person price
$12,480
Single Supplement
$2,490
Deposit
$2,000
Price includes Bhutan’s mandatory
$2,600 Sustainable Environment Fee
Group Size
10 travelers
What’s Included
14 nights accommodations
All meals including tea and soft drinks
All excursions, transportation, and local guides
Park fees, taxes, and permits
Gratuities
Roundtrip airfare Bangkok / Paro & Paro / Bumthang
Arrival and departure transfers
Ready to Go?
Save your spot on our expedition by booking now.
October 12 – 26, 2024
