Curator’s statement
Chances are you will not have run into many people that have actually been to Bhutan, but anybody that has will describe it as magical. Bhutan blends well-preserved natural beauty with world-class hiking and an immersion into Buddhism. The Himalayan landscape is steep, yet breathtaking from all angles. The hotel selection is humbly luxurious, and the locals are distinctively hospitable. The best part is that it still remains a relatively off-the-beaten path destination, and you will not be troubled by mass tourism. If this sounds magical enough for you, then check out the itinerary I have curated below!
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Overview of Day 1: Arrive in Punakha
Day 1: Arrive in Punakha
After a considerable flight from Bangkok, you will land at Paro Airport, which is located in a valley between the Himalayan Mountains. Here, your driver will meet you for your transfer to your hotel in Punakha. You can unwind in your lodge before a welcome dinner.
Overview of Day 2: Monastery and Footbridge.
Day 2: Exploring Punakha and Surroundings
Today, you will hike to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, where you will witness impressive views of the valley below. You can cross a suspension bridge and visit a three-hundred-year-old monastery which is privately owned.
Overview of Day 3: Blessing Ceremony
Day 3: Visit Local Villages and Blessing Ceremony
From your hotel in Punakha, you will visit Nobgang, the ancestral home of four Queen Mothers. On the way back to your hotel, you will stop by the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, where you will participate in a traditional Tshewang (blessing) ceremony.
Overview of Day 4: The Phobjikha Valley
Day 4: Travel to the Phobjikha Valley
You will journey out to the western slopes of the Black Mountains, where you will catch stunning views of Mount Jhomolhari and Mount Jichu, before arriving at your accommodation for the next few nights.
In the afternoon you will hike the Gangtey Nature Trail and visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute.
Overview of Days 5 & 6: Hiking the Phobijika Valley
Days 5-6: Hiking the Phobijika Valley
Immerse yourselves in the culture and nature of this stupendous valley with half-day hikes organized for you by our team on the ground, as well as monastery visits. As always, end your days with rest and relaxation in your luxury accommodation.
Overview of Days 7-9: Paro and the Tiger's Nest
Days 7-9: Paro and the Tiger's Nest
This is the crown jewel of the trip, where after visiting Paro and the National Museum on Day 7, you will spend Days 8 and 9 hiking to the Takstang Monastary (also known as The Tiger's Nest). The four-hour hike will provide you with stunning Himalayan and valley views, that you can't find in most other parts of the world.
Overview of Day 10
Day 10: Goodbye Bhutan
You will be transferred to the airport in Paro where you will fly back to Bangkok following your enriching spiritual, cultural, and physical experience in the Himalayan Kingdom.
Need to know
This is the perfect trip to go on with your partner, whether for a honeymoon or a 25th anniversary. My clients like to do it in groups of four and it is also possible for families with older kids.
Bhutan can also be seen on a 7-day itinerary and we can bespoke the itinerary to your exact travel goals and the valleys you would like to explore. If this has peaked your interest, reach out below to plan your dream trip to Bhutan!
Travel Advisor
Nicola Volpi
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Bhutan. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Luxurious Sicilian Honeymoon.