Bhutan, The Ultimate Himalayan Kingdom
€1795 per person
Travel Dates
Bhutan is a one-of-a-kind destination, a land still untouched by mass tourism. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this mystical kingdom has preserved its cultural and spiritual identity through a policy of sustainable and responsible tourism. Unlike other destinations, access to Bhutan is regulated, allowing only travelers committed to respecting the environment and local traditions to explore this hidden gem.
This journey is a rare and unforgettable experience, a deep dive into a country where cliffside monasteries defy gravity, spirituality guides everyday life, and national happiness takes precedence over economic growth. From royal cities to lush valleys, sacred temples to breathtaking hikes, every moment in Bhutan invites you to contemplation and wonder. A timeless journey, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
A Journey Through Bhutan: Tradition and Nature
This journey will take you through three of Bhutan’s most emblematic regions: Thimphu, the capital where modernity and tradition coexist; Punakha, the former royal capital with its grand landscapes; and Paro, home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. From majestic temples to verdant valleys, you will cross breathtaking mountain passes, visit historic dzongs, and immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Bhutan. With cultural visits, Himalayan hikes, and serene moments of reflection, each step of this journey will bring you closer to the authenticity and serenity of this preserved kingdom.
Unique and Unforgettable Experiences
Beyond the must-see sites, this journey includes exclusive experiences available to only a few travelers. Enjoy a home-hosted dinner, take part in the lighting of butter lamps at Kyichu Lhakhang, and set prayer flags fluttering in the wind at Dochula Pass. For an even deeper immersion, savor a royal Indian “Thali” lunch or a picnic at Lamperi Botanical Garden, meditate in the sacred caves of Dochula, or dress in traditional Bhutanese attire (Gho/Kira). These rare and meaningful experiences will make your journey through Bhutan truly unique.
A scouting trip
In early April, we carried out a scouting trip to Nepal and Bhutan to select the best hotels and the most extraordinary activities. It was a journey out of time, allowing us to fine-tune the itinerary we are offering you. A summary of the trip can be found on this page.
Trip Overview
This trip is designed to offer you a rare and exclusive experience in one of the world’s most protected countries, where tourism is strictly regulated to preserve culture and nature.
Below is an overview of the itinerary we have prepared for you. Further details and additional information can be found later on this page:
Itinerary: the journey begins and ends in Paro, Bhutan
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu and exploration of the capital
Day 2: Discovering Thimphu (Zorig Chusum, Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, etc.)
Day 3: Journey to Punakha – Crossing the Dochula Pass
Day 4: Monasteries and hikes around Punakha
Day 5: Drive to Paro – Exploring cultural treasures (Simtokha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, etc.)
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest or excursion to Chele La
Day 7: Departure from Paro and airport transfer
Travel Dates
Pricing and Practical Information
Travel Price: 1795 €
+ Sustainable Development Fee: $600 (to be paid when applying for the visa)
Bhutan applies a Sustainable Development Fee of $100 per night, totaling $600 per adult for a 6-night stay. This contribution, payable directly to the government, helps fund education, healthcare, and the preservation of Bhutan’s cultural and natural heritage.
Included in the Price:
• Accommodation in standard rooms for 2 nights in Thimphu, 2 nights in Punakha, and 2 nights in Paro in 4-star hotels
• Daily breakfast and dinner at hotel restaurants
• Daily lunch at tourist-class restaurants
• Airport/hotel/airport transfers
• Necessary travel permits
• Intercity transfers and guided sightseeing according to the itinerary
• Monument entrance fees
• English-speaking guide accompanying the group from start to finish
• Bhutan visa fee: $40 per person (subject to change)
• Applicable hotel taxes
• Private transport for the specified program (vehicle not at disposal beyond scheduled visits)
Also Included:
• Home-hosted dinner (replacing one dinner at the hotel)
• Royal Indian “Thali” lunch at Le Méridien Riverfront in Paro or a picnic at Lamperi Botanical Garden in Thimphu
• Visit to a traditional farm in Paro
• Lighting of butter lamps at Kyichu Lhakhang
• Meditation in the caves of Dochula and at Buddha Dordenma
• Setting up prayer flags at Dochula
• Traditional Bhutanese dress (Gho/Kira)
Not Included:
• Sustainable Development Fee: $600/adult for a 6-night stay
• Travel and medical insurance
• Drinks (during meals and sightseeing tours)
• Communication costs, laundry, and gratuities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the “Included in the Price” section
Single Room Supplement: 370 €
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Drive to Thimphu (48 km – approx. 2 hours)
Upon arrival at Paro Airport, transfer to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. A city where modernity and tradition blend harmoniously, Thimphu is the country’s political, religious, and economic center. In the evening, take a stroll through the Thimphu Craft Bazaar, where Bhutanese craftsmanship is showcased. Later, visit Thimphu Dzong and Trashichhoedzong, an iconic fortress-monastery. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2: Discovering Thimphu
A full day dedicated to exploring the capital’s must-see sites. Visit the Heritage Museum to discover Bhutan’s traditional way of life, the Postal Museum, and the Institute of Arts and Crafts (Zorig Chusum), where students practice Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts. Visit the Memorial Chorten, a major Buddhist site, and the Buddha Dordenma, an immense statue overlooking the Thimphu Valley, offering an ideal setting for meditation. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3: Journey to Punakha – Crossing Dochula Pass (75 km – approx. 3 hours)
Drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital, crossing the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,080 m), which offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Optional meditation in a cave and installation of prayer flags. Upon arrival, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Continue to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, accessible via a scenic trail through rice fields and villages. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 4: Monasteries and Hikes Around Punakha
Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Monastery, perched on a ridge with panoramic views over the valley. Explore Talo Monastery, nestled on the mountainside, and Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten, a stunning stupa overlooking the valley. Enjoy an optional riverside hike back to Punakha Dzong, an opportunity to immerse in Bhutan’s landscapes and wildlife. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 5: Drive to Paro (2 nights) – Exploring Cultural Treasures (125 km – approx. 4 hours)
Return to Paro, following the Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu rivers. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, a center for spiritual learning. Enjoy a royal Indian “Thali” lunch at Le Méridien Riverfront before exploring the National Museum of Bhutan (Ta Dzong) and Rinpung Dzong, known as the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels. In the evening, home-hosted dinner, a unique opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture firsthand. Overnight in Paro.
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest or Excursion to Chele La
Choose between:
A hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched 900 meters above Paro Valley, one of Bhutan’s most sacred Buddhist sites. Along the way, stop at a traditional farmhouse to taste butter tea, with an option for a hot stone bath.
An excursion to Chele La Pass (3,988 m), offering breathtaking views of Bhutan’s sacred mountains and a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
In the evening, enjoy free time to explore Paro’s main street and market. Overnight in Paro.
Day 7: Departure from Paro
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Three Ways to Experience a Unique Journey
If you wish to extend your journey, we also offer a one-week trip to Nepal, Bhutan’s neighbouring country. The flight between Paro and Kathmandu takes only 1 hour and 15 minutes. On this page, you’ll find all the practical information about this journey to the heart of the Himalayas, where sacred temples, breathtaking landscapes, and deep spirituality await.
If you prefer to stay a bit longer in Bhutan, we can also organize custom extensions based on your interests — from cultural visits to scenic hikes or even wellness retreats. Contact us via email, and we will take care of everything for you.
We offer three options: a one-week stay in Bhutan, a one-week stay in Nepal, or the full experience combining both trips into a 14-day adventure. For the combined Bhutan + Nepal itinerary, the internal flight between the two countries is included in the package price. You’ll find all practical details and pricing for each option below.
-
Included
All Museum TicketsBreakfastHotelMeals (lunch + evening)Personal GuideTransportTransportation/CarYoga classes -
Not Included
Plane ticketsTrain