LUXURY TAILOR MADE TRAVEL

Tailor-Made Bhutan: A Wellness-Inspired Journey

11 days, 5-star from $12,995

Embark on one of the most memorable journeys of your lifetime by visiting the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, one of the last few strongholds of the old world. Prepare for a transformative experience as you witness the spiritual culture up close, participating in morning prayer ceremonies and meditation alongside monks. Hike through the pristine landscapes, stopping at monasteries and sacred sites, learning about history and the deeply-rooted mindful approach to life that defines the Bhutanese.

Bhutan at a Glance

One of the most mysterious destinations in the world, the landlocked Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is known for its Buddhist culture and awe-inspiring landscapes. Tourism in Bhutan only began in 1974, when the country opened its borders to foreigners, and, to this day, it remains a highly exclusive destination. To protect the country from the negative impacts of tourism, Bhutan focuses on sustainable tourism, and there is a Sustainable Development Fee each visitor must pay. The fee is $200 per day, not including food, accommodation, and other expenses. These funds are used to offset the carbon footprint of tourism, improve carbon-neutral infrastructure, and upskill workers in Bhutan’s tourism sector. Since Bhutan is a Buddhist country, LGBT travellers don’t have to worry about discrimination or harassment, but public displays of affection should be avoided out of respect by couples of any orientation.

Photo: Karun Giri

Photo: Riken Patel

11-day travel itinerary

DAY 1

Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand

Begin your trip by flying to Bangkok in Thailand. A driver will take you to your hotel for the night.

DAY 2

Paro & Thimphu, Bhutan

Fly from Bangkok to Paro, one of Bhutan’s most charming historic towns. From there, journey on to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Before reaching your destination, stop at Simtokha Dzong, one of the many dzongs or fortified monasteries in the country. This one, however, is rather special as it was the first of its kind to be built in Bhutan back in 1629. Once you reach Thimphu, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace.

DAY 3

Thimphu | Exploring the Capital

Drive to the Kuensel Phodrang nature park and marvel at the gigantic golden Buddha Dordenma. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Thimphu valley, it’s a truly magical place. Next, visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, where herbal medicine and medicinal plants are used to this day to treat patients. Head back to your hotel for lunch before continuing to a riverside monastery complex, Pangri Zampa, which houses a college for traditional astrology. Here you’ll be invited for guided meditation and an astrology reading. If you still have time, visit Tashichho Dzong on the western bank of the Wang Chu River.

DAY 4

Gangtey | Remote Himalayan Valley

Travel to the Gangtey glacial valley, passing through lush pine forests while marvelling at the snow-capped Himalayas. En route, you’ll see 108 memorial stupas at Dochula Pass honouring Bhutanese soldiers fallen in battle. Next, visit one of the main monasteries of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism, the Gangtey Monastery. After checking in to your hotel and settling in, head for an archery demonstration, where you will have a chance to shoot the traditional bamboo bow and arrow.

DAY 5

Gangtey | Inner Journeys And Outdoor Explorations

Start your day with a morning prayer ceremony at a shedra, a traditional Buddhist place of learning. Join a monk-teacher for morning rounds and see how apprentices prepare for studies. After lunch, go on a hike or a mountain bike ride on the pine forest Gangtey Nature Trail offering commanding views of the valley. Make a stop at the Black-necked Crane Center, helping the endangered species migrating every year from the Tibetan Plateau. This bird – the only alpine crane in the world – is sacred in Bhutan. Finish the day with an evening meditation and prayers at a local shedra.

DAY 6

Punakha | Legend of The Divine Madman

This morning leave for Punakha, Bhutan’s previous capital. On your way, stop at the Chimi Lhakhang Buddhist monastery, a fertility temple, and a popular pilgrimage destination. Take a stroll through the grounds before continuing to your hotel for lunch and a relaxing afternoon enjoying the spa.

DAY 7

Punakha | Palace of Great Happiness

Begin your day by exploring the former seat of the government, the 17th-century Punakha Dzong. After lunch at your hotel, embark on a hike to Chorten Nyingpo, a quaint temple set atop a hill with terraced rice fields. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the rural villages en route.

DAY 8

Paro | Valley Views

Cross the Dochula Pass on your way back to Paro and visit the National Museum of Bhutan. Admire the vast collection of religious scroll paintings, natural history artefacts, and other relics. Continue to the Rinpung Dzong and explore this locally-significant dzong housing the monastic body and government offices.

DAY 9

Paro | Visiting The Tiger’s Nest

Today awaits with one of the most challenging hikes you’ll take on this trip, but the rewards are well worth it. Visit Bhutan’s most famous landmark, the Taktsang Monastery, set on a cliff above the valley. After learning about the legend surrounding this monastery, descend the mountain for a private tented lunch, complete with a performance by local musicians. Finish the day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most sacred shrines, to make a traditional butter lamp offering.

DAYS 10 - 11

Depart Bangkok

Begin your journey home by first flying to Bangkok. From there, board your international flight home.

Let Us Book Your Luxury Bhutan Vacation

Get in touch if you would like us to arrange your Bhutan trip. Did you have a different Bhutan itinerary in mind? No problem. We tailor every trip to your individual travel style and budget so just let us know what you’re looking for.