Bhutan - The Land of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan is a land of contrasts.

The country is known as The Land of the Thunder Dragon, owing to its intense lightning storms that bear down on the valleys from above the mighty Himalayas, and also as the happiest country on earth, due to its commitment to cultural preservation, environmental conservation and spiritual well-being.

After some sightseeing in Kathmandu, Nepal, we take a flight to the fertile Paro Valley, gateway to Bhutan’s capital, Thimpu, which is also the country’s only city. We visit the magnificent Tashichhoe Dzong, a Buddhist fortress and monastery, home to the head of the civil government and the country’s official summer capital. Just outside of the city we take a hike to Tango Goemba, situated near the Cheri Mountains and an important centre of learning for religious leaders. We also visit a school for traditional crafts, as no visit to Bhutan would be complete without an insight into the plethora of protected arts and crafts that have been passed down over generations.

Heading out of the city, we drive towards Gangtey, described by locals as the most beautiful valley in Bhutan. This is our first taste of real, rural Bhutan, as we are isolated by towering mountains, with the modern world quickly feeling like a distant memory. We take in the simple beauty of Gangtey Gompa, overlooking the vast Phobjikha Valley before continuing to the heart of Buddhism in Bhutan, Bhumtang. Bhumtang is spectacularly positioned amidst the Himalayas and boasts a selection of historic temples, some dating back as far as the 7th century.

Moving on to Trongsa, we come across ancient watchtowers and fortresses belonging to ancestors of the ruling dynasty, and in Punakha we climb up to a Buddhist shrine, known as a chorten, affording wonderful views of the surrounding valley and Mo Chuu River.

Our return to Paro takes us to see some archery, Bhutan’s national sport, and we round off our trip with a hike up to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, before flying back to Kathmandu.

For many centuries Bhutan was left undisturbed, shrouded in mystery, but leaving room for local traditions to flourish and thrive. Whilst the country is still largely undiscovered and proudly independent, it’s slowly opening up to tourism and opportunity, keen to establish itself as a ‘friend to the world’ and to share some of its wonders.

Highlights

  • Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan
  • Hike to the historic monastery known as ‘Tiger's Nest’
  • The beautiful scenery of the Bumthang and Punakha Valleys
  • Watch Bhutan's national sport in action
  • Thimpu's markets and Tango Monastery
  • Visit the heart of Bhutanese Buddhism

Day 1 - Kathmandu

Arrive into Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Overnight Hilton Kathmandu or similar.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, stands at an elevation of 1,400 meters in the Himalayan foothills, in the centre of the country. Wedged between China and India, it serves as the gateway to the Nepalese Himalayan mountains. Known as the “City of Temples” due to its many ancient pagodas and stupas, Kathmandu has an urban population of 1.5 million. It is the centre of Nepalese history, art, culture, and economy, with a multiethnic – predominantly Hindu and Buddhist – population. The official language spoken is Nepali, but English is widely understood.

Day 2 - Kathmandhu

After breakfast we head out for a full day of exploring Kathmandu. Sites include Kathmandu Durbar Square, a cluster of ancient temples, palaces and courtyards that are collectively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Swayambhunath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square. Overnight Hilton Kathmandu or similar. (B)


Day 3 - Kathmandu - Thimphu

Fly from Kathmandu to Paro and then drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. On arrival we explore the city including the Tashichhoe Dzong and other sights. Overnight Damisa Hotel or similar. (D)

Thimphu

Thimphu is Bhutan’s capital and largest town, home to around 100,000 people, nestled among a range of mountains, and the third highest capital in the world. Seamlessly blending modernity with tradition, this fascinating city boasts modern restaurants nestled amidst lush forests, ancient monasteries, grand fortresses and local markets selling everything from yak butter to hand-woven textiles. The breathtaking scenery and panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley are truly a sight to behold. Sitting above the city is the expansive Tashichhoe Dzong, the seat of national government and the site of the royal throne room. The courtyard is often used during festivals, with the original building dating back to the 13th century and still in keeping with its original style. Another important site is the Memorial Chorten, a symbol of Buddhist culture bearing skilled carvings depicting scenes of the Buddhist faith and venerated by the Bhutanese people.

Day 4 - Thimpu

Drive through the Thimphu Valley and hike to the 13th century Tango Monastery, with great views over the surrounding landscape. We then head back to Thimphu for lunch and visit a school for traditional crafts where we can see examples of Bhutan’s rich artistic heritage. Overnight Damisa Hotel or similar. (BLD)


Hiking duration to Tango Monastery is approximately 1 hour.


Day 5 - Gangtey

A picturesque drive through the mountains takes us towards Gangtey, on the flanks of the Black Mountains. Once we arrive in Gangtey, we visit the 16th century Gangtey Gompa, situated on a hilltop overlooking the Phobjikha Valley. We will then follow a nature trail passing Khewa Lhakhang Temple, before returning to Gangtey. Overnight ABC Lodge or similar. (BLD)


The walk along Gangtey nature trail usually takes around 1.5-2 hours. This is a gentle downhill walk from Gangtey Gompa to the valley floor, passing through meadows, forest and a local village.


Day 6 - Bumthang

Drive through the central valleys of Bhutan, reaching the Pele La Pass with fantastic views of the Himalayan range. We also pass Chendebji Chorten and through the town of Trongsa before finally arriving in Bumthang. Overnight Valley Resort or similar. (BLD)

Bumthang

Bumthang comprises four valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Chhume and Ura. Besides natural beauty, the four valleys are blessed with some of the oldest Buddhist temples in the kingdom. It was here that Guru Rinpoche cured a local king from a spirit induced ailment in the 8th century CE. This resulted in the king, and finally the whole country, embracing Buddhism. The Buddhist Saint Pema Lingpa was born in Bumthang, and many other famous Buddhist yogis lived and practiced here. Consequently, Bumthang is a repository of sacred artifacts and monasteries.

Day 7 - Bumthang

Bumthang is one of the most spectacular valleys in Bhutan, and the heart of Bhutanese Buddhism. In the morning, we visit one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, the 7th century Jambay Lhakhang, as well as Kurjey Lhakhang. We then hike to Tamshing Monastery and continue to Thangbi Valley with its 14th century temple. Overnight Valley Resort or similar. (BLD)


Walking duration to Tamshing Monastery is approximately 30-45 minutes. Hiking duration to Thangbi Valley is approximately 1.5-2 hours (one way). This is a gentle hike through farmland and villages.


Day 8 - Trongsa

Today we depart to Trongsa where we will visit the Taa Dzong, an ancient watchtower built to guard the Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion. The old building of the Trongsa Dzong is the largest fortress in Bhutan and the ancestral home of the ruling dynasty, overlooking the Mangdi Chu River. Overnight Yangkhel Hotel or similar. (BLD)


The uphill climb to Taa Dzong is steep but should only take around 20-30 minutes.


Day 9 - Punakha

Head towards the Punakha Valley. We take a short hike en route to see the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which dominates the upper Punakha Valley with its commanding views across the Mo Chhu River and beyond. Overnight Bhutanic Resort or similar. (BLD)


Hiking duration to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is approximately 50 minutes one way. This is an uphill trail through rice fields and pine forest.

 

Punakha Valley

Punakha Valley is famous for rice farming, with both red and white rice grown along the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. Located here is Punakha Dzong, or the ‘Palace of Great Happiness,’ one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, which dates back to almost four hundred years. It is located where the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers meet and serves as a winter home for the central monastic body, holding many sacred relics.

Day 10 - Paro

Head back to Paro where we visit the 7th century Ta Dzong, built to watch over Paro Dzong. The watchtower has now been converted into a museum, and after our visit we head to one of the traditional archery grounds to see Bhutan’s national sport in action. Overnight Metta Hotel or similar. (BLD)


Day 11 - Ramthangkha - Paro

Start early to drive to Ramthangkha, where we hike to the historic Taktsang Monastery – better known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ and one of Bhutan’s most iconic sights. Afterwards we continue to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. Return to Paro for the night. Overnight Metta Hotel or similar. (BLD)


Hiking duration to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is approximately 2-3 hours, depending on fitness levels. The hike down should take around 1.5-2 hours.

 

Taktsang Monastery

Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a sacred Vajrayana Himalayan Buddhist site. Perched precariously 3,000 meters above the Paro Valley, it was built in the late 17th century on the site of a cave set into the cliff. The remote location of the monastery adds to its incredible beauty and it is one of thirteen caves in historical Tibet where Padmasambhava practiced and taught Vajrayana Buddhism.

Day 12 - Paro - Kathmandhu

Fly back to Kathmandu and head out for some sightseeing in the afternoon. We visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the holiest sites in Nepal, and the Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva. In the evening we have our final dinner as a group. Overnight Hilton Kathmandu or similar. (BD)


Day 13 – Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)


What's included?

  • Airport transfers

    We include arrival and departure transfers regardless of whether you book flights yourself, or we book them for you. If you’re booking them yourself, then please let us know the details so that we can arrange the transfers. Please note though that if you arrive earlier than Day 1 of the tour, and leave after the final day, we may need to make an additional charge for an airport transfer.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation as listed in the dossier. The nature of the destinations that we operate may sometimes mean that we need to change hotels, but we’ll always endeavour to keep the same standards. Please be aware that as we operate in many countries where tourism is in its infancy, hotel standards may not be the same as you’re used to elsewhere.

    Please note that while we prefer to use centrally located hotels where possible, this is not always practical and in some locations they may not be the best option in terms of standards or reliability.

  • Guides

    You will be accompanied by an English speaking guide.

  • Meals

    As listed within the itinerary / dossier (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner). These will vary from trip to trip – in some areas it makes sense to include all meals while in others there is a good choice of restaurants and we feel people might like to ‘do their own thing’ now and again. Please note that when meals are included, sometimes these will be in hotels, as often these are the most appropriate option, and will sometimes be set menus. Local restaurants are often lacking in variety, as well as the capacity to cater for groups. Drinks are not included and are at your own expense.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees are listed for those sites that we mention within the itinerary. If there are any other sites that you’d like to see, these would be at your own expense.

What's not included?

  • Visas

    We don’t arrange visas for our travellers, but if an invitation letter is necessary then we will arrange this for you. If you need any advice with visas then just give us a call, or alternatively a visa agency such as Travcour (www.travcour.com)

  • Airport taxes

    If there are any departure taxes to pay that are not included within the cost of your ticket, you’ll need to pay these yourself.

  • International flights

    Many of our travellers arrive from different destinations and so we don’t include international flights in the cost of our tours. If however you would like us to book flights for you, then just give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss your options.

  • Travel insurance

    If you need any assistance with this, then let us know – although we can’t arrange it ourselves we can point you in the direction of a reputable provider that can assist.

Visas
You must have a visa to enter and exit Bhutan. You’ll need to apply in advance for a pre-approval and the authorities will issue the actual visa on arrival.

You should apply via the Department of Immigration’s website – https://visit.doi.gov.bt – and will be charged an application fee of 40 USD. Alternatively, our local team can apply on your behalf, and they will also provide any necessary permits.

Health and vaccinations
We are not medically qualified and so we recommend that you speak to your doctor or nearest health professional for advice concerning recommended vaccinations. For more advice on vaccinations, you can also visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk

Insurance
It is a condition of joining our tours that you have suitable travel insurance in place, and we cannot accept travellers without insurance. All policies differ in terms of what they will cover, but as a minimum you need medical and health cover which will cover you for the whole time that you are away. Most policies will also include cancellation cover, which will cover you if an unforeseen circumstance obliges you to cancel your trip. We recommend that you obtain your insurance as soon as you book your trip.

Please note that government travel warnings often affect the validity of your travel insurance, and you should check this with your insurance company.

Money
The currency in Bhutan is the Ngultrum, and visitors are advised to bring US dollars or Indian rupees for exchange purposes. If you are unable to exchange Indian rupees, they are taken almost everywhere and 1 Indian rupee is worth 1 Ngultrum.

Local conditions
When travelling to some of the destinations we offer you need to bear in mind that things won’t always work here as we’re used to them working at home. Travelling in underdeveloped and untouristed destinations requires both patience and a sense of humour. There may be problems with infrastructure, attitudes may be different, and maintenance may not be as high a standard as we would always like, but this is very much part and parcel of travelling in such a place.

In addition, roads throughout the parts of Asia that we visit are often poorly maintained (if at all!) and distances between key sites of interest can be long. While there are some issues that we are able to solve, others are intrinsic to the countries that we travel through, and you should be aware that many of the countries that we operate in cannot be compared to others on the continent that have better infrastructure – for example the popular tourist destinations of South East Asia and the Middle East. Although travelling in these countries can at times be an ‘unpolished’ experience, this is all part of the adventure.

We aim to resolve any issues as quickly as possible, and putting up with a pothole (or ten) is undeniably worth it for the amazing sights and cultural experiences you will encounter along the way.

Travel advice
We keep a very close eye on the travel advice issued by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office so that we can keep you up to date with any warnings. At the time of writing the FCO does not advise against travel to any parts of Bhutan.

This relates to advice from the British government – other nationalities need to check the stance of their own governments.

Date(s)
Price (PP) Exc. Flights
Single Supplement
Trip Status
Date -
08 November 2025
Price (PP) -
£3,599
Single Supplement -
£525
Trip Status -
Available
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Date -
04 April 2026
Price (PP) -
£3,999
Single Supplement -
£580
Trip Status -
Available
Book Now
Date -
07 November 2026
Price (PP) -
£3,999
Single Supplement -
£580
Trip Status -
Available
Book Now