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Bhutan: Spirit & Nature
$5,995 per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement: $895.
Trip Overview
The Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the world’s little-known treasures. In the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” quality of life is measured in terms of Gross National Happiness, rather than purely material measures – though Bhutan’s citizens live comfortable, serene lives.
Until quite recently, this tiny country remained in splendid isolation, dedicated to preserving its deep Buddhist traditions and pristine landscapes. Now, a small number of guests each year are invited to discover Bhutan’s natural and cultural wonders. Join us on a journey among ancient monasteries and temples, Himalayan peaks and glacial rivers, rare wildlife and extraordinary people.
Trip Itinerary
Please note that the dates below do not include travel time to and from the destination. We suggest consulting our tour operator, Natural Habitat Adventures, to discuss the best flight options for your travels.
Thursday, February 17: Bangkok, Thailand / Paro, Bhutan / Thimpu
Arrive at Bangkok Airport this morning for our group flight to Paro. The Paro Valley, rich in culture and scenic beauty, offers a bucolic welcome to the kingdom. Drive to Thimpu, Bhutan’s inviting capital. This seat of government and commerce is a harmonious mix of modern development and ancient traditions – and is the only national capital without traffic lights. (L,D)
Friday, February 18: Thimpu
This morning, visit a takin reserve. This large, hoofed mammal is closely related to the musk ox and is Bhutan’s national animal. Later, hike near the reserve among colorful prayer flags. Depending on time and interest, visit the handmade paper factory, handicraft emporium or national library and folk art museum. (B,L,D)
Saturday, February 19: Wangdiphodrang / Chuzomsa
Cross Dochu La, a 10,000-foot pass marked by 108 chortens (fluttering prayer flags) and a view of the entire Eastern Himalaya. Descend dramatically to the village of Wangdiphodrang and visit the dzong overlooking the confluence of the rivers below. Reach Chuzomsa and our hotel in the afternoon. (B,L,D)
Sunday, February 20: Phobjikha Valley
The day’s destination is the remote glacial valley of Phobjikha, nestled in the western slopes of the Black Mountains. The endangered black-necked crane nests here in winter, migrating from the Tibetan plateau. The wildlife preserve here is also home to muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes, though these species are elusive and rarely spotted. Stay at a cozy mountain lodge with intricate woodwork and outstanding views. (B,L,D)
Monday, February 21: Phobjikha Valley
Rise early to see the cranes, if they are present during our visit. Also visit Gangteng Gompa, one of the largest and most influential monasteries in Bhutan. (B,L,D)
Tuesday, February 22: Phobjikha Valley / Trongsa
Traversing 11,300-foot Pele La, descend to Trongsa to visit the sprawling dzong built in 1648, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. Also visit the Trongsa Tower which has recently been converted into a museum. (B,L,D)
Wednesday & Thursday, February 23 & 24: Punakha Valley
The next stop is Punakha Valley, fertile with rice and fruit. Straddling the confluence of the Po and Mo rivers, Punakha Dzong is Bhutan’s best-known fortress. Built in 1637, it was the capital until 1955 and home to Bhutan’s religious establishment. Known as “The Palace of Great Happiness,” it remains the monks’ winter residence. Hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, passing terraced fields and rice paddies. (B,L,D daily)
Friday, February 25: Paro
Drive back to Paro, stopping to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a seventh-century temple which, according to Buddhist mythology, holds down the left foot of an enormous ogress. (B,L,D)
Saturday, February 26: Paro
Your journey concludes with an impressive finale: Taktsang Monastery. Known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” this complex of 17th-century temples clings to a precipitous cliff 2,800 feet above the valley floor. Myth holds that the Guru Rimpoche flew from India on the back of a tigress to the site, where he meditated in a cave for three months. Later, enjoy a festive farewell banquet. (B,L,D)
Sunday, February 27: Paro / Bangkok / Home
Depart for Bangkok after breakfast and connect with flights home. (B)
