Discover the Land of the Thunder Dragon on a journey taking in Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang and Paro. From sacred monasteries to sweeping valleys, this itinerary blends culture, nature and wellness for an immersive exploration of Bhutan’s most captivating regions.
Explore Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, with visits to Buddha Dordenma, colourful markets, craft studios and a local brewery known for its small batch ales
Walk scenic routes such as the Gangtey Nature Trail and the Taktsang path, where fluttering prayer flags and wide valley views form part of the journey
Meet monks, artisans and families through activities such as butter lamp lighting, farm lunches and monastery visits, adding context to Bhutanese traditions
Arrive in Paro, where your guide welcomes you with a traditional khadar scarf before your transfer by scenic drive to the capital city, Thimphu, for a two-night stay at Six Senses Thimphu. Enjoy a relaxed evening with a Bhutanese thought leader, offering insight into the country’s culture and traditions. The next morning begins with outdoor yoga at Buddha Dordenma, followed by a visit to the Choki Traditional Arts School to observe students practising crafts. Spend the afternoon exploring Thimphu at leisure,
perhaps visiting the Memorial Chorten, art galleries or local boutiques.
Travel to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass to admire its 108 chortens and mountain views, where you will spend two nights at andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, an ideal location for riverside sundowners. Your time in Punakha includes a gentle walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the famed fertility temple, as well as a visit to a monastic school, where you may join the monks for butter lamp lighting and a short
prayer session. A visit to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most significant fortresses, is a highlight.
Day 5 starts with a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Temple, set on a scenic ridge above the Punakha Valley, before continuing to the picturesque Phobjikha Valley for a two-night stay at Amankora Gangtey. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure and a traditional hot stone bath in the evening. The next day starts at Gangtey Goemba, a 17th-century monastery and landmark of the valley. From here join the nature trail, a gentle walk through meadows, forests and villages. You will also visit the Black-necked Crane Centre to
learn about Bhutan’s cherished migratory birds, which visit the valley each winter.
Travel via Trongsa and visit its historic watchtower museum before continuing to the spiritual heartland of Bumthang for a two-night stay at Six Senses Bumthang. The following day features visits to Wangdicholing Palace and the Burning Lake before you continue to Ogyencholing Palace. Meet the family caretakers and enjoy a fresh farm-to-table lunch. Later, visit a local craft beer brewery for a tasting before returning to your lodge.
After breakfast, take a scenic domestic flight to Paro for a three-night stay at Amankora Paro. During your time here, you will visit a local farm for a Bhutanese lunch and tree planting as well as visiting a monastery for a guided mandala completion and release ceremony. A highlight on Day 11 is the hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s iconic clifftop monastery. After your descent, unwind with a hot stone
bath and lunch before a relaxed exploration of Paro. Enjoy a final evening with dinner accompanied by traditional folk and mask dances. On Day 12, transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight.