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Adventure & Comfort in Bhutan & Thailand

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Experience Travel Group

Adventure & Comfort in Bhutan & Thailand

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Experience two vastly different sides of Asia in this extraordinary holiday. Step worlds away from your everyday in Bhutan, a mesmerically beautiful Himalayan country where peace and tradition pervade every aspect of life. Next, fly just a few hours into tropical Thailand, taking in its dynamic Northern cities, rolling green mountains and a little-known island escape.

Despite their differences, these two countries are in fact closely linked, both diplomatically and in their deep Buddhist roots. Discover the fascinating contrasts of Buddhism today, as well as the cultures, customs and glorious landscapes that define each kingdom.

This outdoorsy holiday would be particularly well-suited to those with an appetite for adventure and staggering scenery, either couples or curious families with older children.

Highlights include:

  • Hiking up to the dazzling Tiger’s Nest monastery, an astounding feat of Bhutanese architecture clinging to a sheer cliff face

  • White-water raft down a glacial river, marvelling at the paddy fields, forests and traditional buildings as you pass

  • Experience the delicious cuisine and verdant mountains of northern Thailand

  • Unwind on a hidden Thai beach, taking a canoe to hidden coves or swimming and snorkelling in the Andaman Sea

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 holiday, fill in the form below.

DAY 1: DEPART UK

 Depart the UK on your flight to Bhutan via Delhi.

 DAY 2 & 3 THIMPHU  AN INTRODUCTION 

 After touching down in Paro Airport, your guide and local driver will take you to Bhutan’s sleepy capital city, Thimphu. Take the rest of the day to unwind and settle in at your hotel.

Your time in Thimphu will be spent soaking up the city’s distinctive atmosphere. You’ll visit its most iconic monument, the National Memorial Chorten, which has gorgeous views of the valley below. If it’s a market day (weekends), you can experience the dynamic famers’ market and will be likely to stumble across a local archery tournament too!

You’ll also experience an interesting blend of tradition and modernity by visiting two organisations that seek to preserve traditional arts and crafts while promoting contemporary talent. See local artists at work and even try your hand at creating your own Thanka (a traditional Buddhist fabric painting).

DAY 4: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA VIA THE DOCHULA PASS  

Set off on the scenic drive to Punakha with your guide and driver, winding through the pine and cedar forests via the Dochula Pass. Here, you will stop to explore the 108 stupas built in honour of fallen Bhutanese soldiers before trying warm Yak milk tea at a cafe. On a clear day, this is also an incredible viewpoint with panoramic Himalayan vistas. You will then descend to your destination, the fertile Punakha valley, with a quick detour into the paddy fields to visit the memorable Chimi Lhakhang, otherwise known as the Temple of Fertility.

DAY 5: PUNAKHA   RAFTING THE PO CHU

Get an adrenaline rush as you paddle your way down the Po Chu river (‘Father River’) in the upper Punakha Valley. You will zip over 15 class 2-4 rapids surrounded by outstanding scenery, ending at the confluence by Punakha Dzong.

DAY 6: punakha  GILIGANG TRAIL & DZONG

Today you will take the best day trek in Punakha: the Giligang Trail. Altogether, it takes around 4-5 hours and includes a picnic breakfast in the peaceful gardens of the Khamsum Chorten, which means you can see it before the temple’s visitors arrive for the day. Your guide will lead you along the trail which traverses rice paddies and pine forests and offers spectacular mountain views.

DAY 7: PARO   

This morning you will take the 4-hour drive back to Paro, where you will spend one night. In the afternoon, enjoy an orientation tour of this historic town with your local guide and scope out its main attractions. Round off your day with tea and local wine over archery at a traditional farmhouse.

DAYS 8 & 9: BUMDRA TREK   TIGER’S NEST

Here, you have the option to stay in Paro and do a day trek to Tiger's Nest Monastery. However, if you have a reasonable level of fitness and like a bit of an adventure, we’d suggest the 2-day hike via Bumdra, the evocative Cave of a Thousand Prayers. Whichever option you chose, your guide will accompany you. If you decide on the overnight experience, an expert trekking guide will join you too.

The overnight experience includes a day hiking through forest and along ridges to 4000m altitude and your camping spot.  Don't forget to hang your own prayer flags while you're here! The next day, you will start descending to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (whilst everyone else is ascending!). Hiking down from above is quite a special way to catch your first glimpse of Bhutan's most iconic sight.

You will spend a good amount of time exploring the interior of Tiger’s Nest, where no cameras are allowed. Once you’ve satisfied your curiosity, climb down into the Paro valley where your driver will take you to your hotel. Time to toast and reflect on your adventure with a drink and a delicious final meal in Bhutan!

DAY 10-12 thailand - Golden Triangle 

Today you’ll board a flight from Paro to Bangkok. In this example itinerary, we have suggested connecting straight on to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand as it offers a gentle transition from Bhutan to Thailand. For a real feast for the senses and a complete contrast to Paro, you could stop in vibrant Bangkok for a few nights if you prefer.

Chiang Rai is an evocative riverside city, home to an ambient night market and one of the most extraordinary temples in Thailand. Just outside the city, you’ll find unusual cave temples, dramatic hills and fields of pineapple - we suggest exploring this rural area by bicycle, stopping for snacks and freshly-picked fruit along the way. You will stay in a stunning boutique hotel nestled in the mountains, with unique bamboo rooms and unbelievable views.

day 13 & 14 Chiang Mai   

Your guide and driver will next take you south to the so-called ‘2nd city’, Chiang Mai. You'll stay in a beautiful, peaceful retreat outside the city on the banks of the Ping River.

During your stay, you’ll have a chance to explore the city sights with our Chiang Mai signature tour. Tasting the local street food and observing Buddhist monks collecting their alms at dawn, you’ll get a strong sense of Thai culture and tradition (and how it compares to Bhutanese). You’ll also visit an ethical sanctuary for rescued elephants.

DAYS 15 - 18 HIDDEN BEACH RESORT IN SOUTHERN THAILAND

Take a direct flight from Chiang Mai to either Phuket or Krabi before a boat transfer to a peaceful hidden island: we recommend Koyao Island Resort or Koh Jum Beach Villas. Both are little-known retreats in beautiful surroundings which allow you to experience Thailand’s famous beaches and idyllic views of limestone cliffs rising from the sea. Your time here is simply for relaxing and enjoying beach life; why not enjoy traditional Thai massage in the outdoor Sala, take a canoe to hidden coves or swim and snorkel in the Andaman Sea?

Day 19 fly home

Depart Phuket or Krabi for your flight back to the UK.

 

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, our holidays typically cost between £4,000 and £6,000 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...

Bumdra High Camp

Bumdra High Camp, Paro

Breathtaking views over the Para Valley from this comfortable tented camp perched high over the Tiger's Nest Monastery.

Como Uma Paro

Como Uma Paro, Paro

A combination of modern and traditional design in a tranquil spot above the breathtaking Paro Valley.

Dhensa

Dhensa, Punakha

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

Koh Jum Beach Villas

Koh Jum Beach Villas, Koh Jum

Spacious villa-style accommodation set on peaceful, undiscovered Koh Jum island. An authentic glimpse into Thailand island life.

Phu-Chaisai

Phu-Chaisai, Chiang Rai

A colourful, comfortable, occasionally eccentric hilltop hideaway resort. Great panoramic views of the northern mountains.

Raya Heritage

Raya Heritage, Chiang Mai

Tranquil contemporary retreat with stylish accommodation on the banks of the Ping River just outside Chiang Mai.

Taj Tashi

Taj Tashi, Thimphu

A grand property with traditional Bhutanese touches overlooking the Wang Chu river and valley in Thimphu.

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.

Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai

Sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants providing "elephant friendly" experiences (no elephant riding).

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.

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.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha

Cross the Mo Chhu River on one of Bhutan's unique prayer flag adorned iron-chain suspension bridges.

Morning with the Monks

Morning with the Monks, Chiang Mai

Magical, cultural experience at the sacred Doi Suthep Mountain

Personalised Intro to Chiang Mai

Personalised Intro to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai

An introduction to Chiang Mai with your private guide, tailored to your own pace and interests.

The Fertility Temple & The Divine Madman

The Fertility Temple & The Divine Madman, Punakha

When you go to Bhutan, prepare not to be embarrassed about the proliferation of phalluses painted around most doorways!

White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting , Punakha

Experience the Punakha valley from a different perspective: white water rafting the glacial waters of the Po Chhu river.

Map showing Hotels & Experiences associated with 'Adventure & Comfort in Bhutan & Thailand'

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.

India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty

India's Golden Triangle & Bhutan’s Natural Beauty

Combine an exploration of the historical sites of Rajasthan with the pristine scenery and culture of Bhutan.

Luxury Bhutan

Luxury Bhutan

Incredible hotels in amazing locations add the icing on the cake to the one off experience of exploring Bhutan.


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Don’t just see Asia - feel Asia.

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  • Destinations
    • South Asia
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