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Bhutan's Highlights with a Twist

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Bhutan's Highlights with a Twist
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Experience Travel Group

Bhutan's Highlights with a Twist

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Welcome to Bhutan: a capsule Kingdom in which traditions thrive, scenery dazzles and Buddhism is inextricably woven into the fabric of daily life.

This holiday is designed to give you a feel for the country's culture and unique pace. In the capital city of Thimphu, you will explore the markets, monuments and local life. You’ll discover Punakha where you’ll take gentle hikes along terraced paddies and visit the famous Dzong, the breathtaking home of the national treasures. Get a taste of remote village life in the Haa Valley, where you will stay in a charming converted farmhouse and learn about Bhutan's historic links to Tibet. And, of course, no trip to Bhutan would be complete without a trek up to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery. 

Highlights:

  • Marvel at the traditional architecture, staggering fortresses, golden temples and stupas
  • Witness the Himalaya reigning over the horizon from high mountain passes
  • Discover the captivating blend of old and new in Bhutanese craftwork
  • Veer from the beaten track into the pristine Haa Valley, a little known pocket of rural hamlets and farms

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace and style. To find out more about how this suggested itinerary could inspire your own holiday, fill in the form below.

DAY 1: DEPART UK

Depart the UK on your flight to Paro.

DAY 2: THIMPHU   AN INTRODUCTION

Your guide will meet you at Paro airport and take you to the capital city, Thimphu. En route, you will stop by the your first Bhutanese temple: Tamchog Lhakhang, which is reached by walking across a rickety iron-chain bridge over the Paro Chhu river. Settle into your hotel and then, later in the afternoon, your guide will introduce you to the sights and sounds of the capital itself. You will visit its most iconic monument, the National Memorial Chorten, which has impressive valley views. If it’s a market day (weekends), you’ll join the hustle and bustle as farmers from all over the country try to sell their wares. On a Saturday you’ll also be sure to stumble across an archery tournament or two! 

DAY 3: THIMPHU   OLD AND NEW BHUTANESE ART

Today, experience the blend of old an new through visits to two inspiring organisations that seek to preserve traditional arts and crafts while promoting contemporary talent. Watch local artists at work and try your hand at creating your own Thanka (a traditional Buddhist fabric painting).

DAY 4: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA VIA THE DOCHULA PASS   

Set off with your guide and driver for the scenic drive to Punakha.  The journey will take you through pine and cedar forests via the Dochula Pass where, on a clear day, the panoramic views of the Himalayan range are just incredible. Stop to explore the 108 stupas built in honour of fallen Bhutanese soldiers. Continue to descend into the fertile Punakha valley before taking a short walk through paddy fields to visit the notorious Chimi Lhakhang, otherwise known as the Temple of Fertility. 

DAY 5: PUNAKHA DZONG

Arguably one of the most beautiful in the country, Punakha Dzong is set on the confluence of the Mo Chuu and Pho Chu rivers. Spend the day exploring this spectacular complex that is brimming with with history; all of Bhutan’s kings were crowned here. 

DAYS 6 & 7: HAA VALLEY   RURAL, PICTURESQUE SCENERY

The drive to the untouched Haa Valley takes around 5 hours. In the afternoon, explore the hamlets and temples of the picturesque, rural valley area, with a visit to Lhakhang Karpo (The White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo, a 7th Century monastery. Stop by a local farmhouse and try your hand at making Hoente; these dumpling (or momos) are a regional speciality.

The following day, embark on a 2-3 hour hike to the see the Kila Nunnery, which is perched on a cliffside. Begin at Chele La which, at 3,988m, is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan - so you can imagine the magnificent views!

DAYS 8 & 9: PARO   TEMPLES AND TIGER’S NEST

The drive back to Paro is just one hour. On arrival your local guide will introduce you to the city with highlights including the Paro Rinpung Dzong towering over the town, as well as the National Museum. End the day with tea or local wine over a spot of archery at a traditional farmhouse.

Your last full day in Bhutan will see you hiking to the iconic and incredible Tiger’s Nest, otherwise known as the Taktsang monastery, clinging to a sheer cliff face 900m high. The ascent will take between 2 and4 hours as the terrain is quite steep in parts.

DAY 10: ONWARD FLIGHT

You will be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport for your onward flight. You can either fly home or continue your holiday with an adventure in Thailand, India, or another remarkable destination in Asia.

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays to Bhutan typically cost between £6,000 and £8,000 per adult depending on trip length and time of year as well as the hotels and flights involved. We offer child and seasonal discounts. You can read our ultimate guide to holiday costs in Asia for more in-depth information.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 to create your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your bespoke proposal with Experience Travel Group will include:

  • International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
  • Accommodation as described
  • Privately guided tours and transfers
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Original Experience Travel Group "signature" experiences 
  • Full financial protection (ABTA and ATOL bonding.) 
  • 24-hour in-country backup while away
  • Your dedicated travel expert in the UK 

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

Dhensa

Dhensa, Punakha

Set amongst a pine forest overlooking the Punakha River, combining modern and traditional Bhutanese architecture.

Hotel Druk

Hotel Druk, Thimphu

Hotel Druk is in the heart of Thimphu city, with characterful Bhutanese-style rooms.

Lechuna

Lechuna, Haa

An authentic farmhouse set in the scenic Haa Valley amongst traditional, rural village life.

Zhiwa Ling Heritage

Zhiwa Ling Heritage, Paro

Intricate Bhutanese architecture and comfort in Paro Valley.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

Bhutan's National Sport

Bhutan's National Sport, Various Locations

Khuru is a hugely popular social activity played in groups throughout the country.

Chele La Pass

Chele La Pass, Haa

Some 4000 meters high, Chele La Pass is the highest motorable track in Bhutan, located at the mid-way point between Haa and Paro Valleys.

Exploring Dochula Pass

Exploring Dochula Pass, Punakha

Dochula Pass offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas where you can stop off for a bite and a drink.

Exploring Punakha Dzong

Exploring Punakha Dzong, Punakha

Punakha Dzong dates back to the 17th century when it was built by the 1st Rinpoche and arguably the most beautiful.

Hanging your Prayer Flags

Hanging your Prayer Flags, Various Locations

Bhutan is practically crisscrossed with prayer flags and they're usually in the frame on any photo taken.

Hike to Tigers Nest Monastery

Hike to Tigers Nest Monastery, Paro

No cameras/phones are allowed into the monastery so the interior is something you will have never seen before.

Hot Stone Bath Experience

Hot Stone Bath Experience, Various Locations

Enjoy a traditional hot stone bath, immerse yourself in a typical Bhutanese family tradition.

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Bhutan's Highlights with a Twist '

More Holiday Suggestions

Adventure in Bhutan

Adventure in Bhutan

This holiday includes less road travel, more trekking, and a little adventure — ideal for intrepid couples and families.

Bhutan Encompassed

Bhutan Encompassed

A 3-week once-in-lifetime trip that combines both the "Adventure in Bhutan" and "Bhutan In-Depth" itineraries.

The Essence of Bhutan

The Essence of Bhutan

A two-week immersion that takes you deep into the mountains, the valleys, the iconic sites… the very heart, the very essence of this incredible Kingdom.


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Not sure what you’re looking for? Let us inspire you...

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Don’t just see Asia - feel Asia.

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  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
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      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Borneo
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      • Oman
  • Holidays in Bhutan
    • Classic Bhutan
    • Honeymoons in Bhutan
    • Family Bhutan Holidays
    • Multi-Country Bhutan
  • Guide to Bhutan
    • Bhutan Guide
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Bhutan Travel Blog
  • Places in Bhutan
    • Overview
    • Haa Valley
    • Thimphu
    • Paro Valley
    • Phobjikha (Gangtey) Valley
    • Punakha Valley
    • Bumthang
  • About us
    • Why choose ETG?
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    • Booking with confidence
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    • Working with in-country partners
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  • Immersive Holidays
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