Adventure to The World’s Happiest Country: Bhutan

Begin your adventure to the happiest country in the world with a thrilling flight into Paro, one of the world’s most dangerous airports, surrounded by the stunning Himalayas. Coming from Nepal, you’ll even have a chance to glimpse Mt. Everest on your flight! Only about 50 pilots globally are certified to fly into this small airport, with connections from only Nepal, Thailand and India.

After arrival, head to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, where modern life meets ancient traditions. Explore the city’s highlights, including the Memorial Chorten and the vibrant high street, for your first taste of Bhutanese culture. While you’ll see some locals with cars and cellphones, you won’t find a single traffic light in the entire country! In cities, an officer stands to direct traffic.

Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma, the Textile Museum and Changangkha Lhakhang in Thimphu today. These sites will give you a better sense of the country’s traditions, and you may be some of the only visitors there. In the evening, enjoy the bustling markets and stop off for a drink or a night of karaoke — there are a few fun karaoke bars, funnily enough!

Today you have a long, but gorgeous, drive to the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley. On the way, you’ll stop at the 108 chortens of Dochula Pass for panoramic Himalayan views. You can even take a break in some authentic towns, like Wangdue, for some snacks and to stretch your legs. When you get to the valley, check in to your hotel. I personally loved Gangtey Lodge, famed for its stunning valley vistas and recently featured on BBC’s Amazing Hotels. This boutique hotel has an incredible sense of self and warm hospitality, alongside luxurious accommodations and amazing food. It’s one of my favorite hotels!

Start the day with a local blessing ceremony at the nearby Gangtey Monastery before exploring the valley on foot. If you’re lucky, you may even see the locals partaking in an archery contest, the national sport of Bhutan. These are always fun to watch, and really impressive to see how talented they are. Try your hand at it back at your hotel. In the afternoon, hike along scenic trails, visit traditional farmhouses, and, depending on the season, witness the black-necked cranes at their migratory home. You can even visit the black-necked crane center to see these magnificent birds up close.

You’ll leave the valley behind and drive past the grazing yaks back to Punakha, home to the majestic Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers. This intricately carved fortress was decorated by Bhutanese artists, all of whom spent six years learning to carve and paint all the architecture in the country. After a local lunch, walk through terraced rice fields, visit the fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang and soak in the tranquil beauty of this next valley before heading to your accommodations for the night.

Spend a day adventuring in nature today. You can experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Mo Chhu River or take a scenic hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, you’ll want to indulge in some relaxation at your luxury accommodation and just soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Journey back to Paro to explore the Paro Dzong. This fortress blends spirituality, history, and beauty, with more of the intricately carved and painted buildings. Take a stroll along the windswept streets of the city and visit a traditional farmhouse for an intimate glimpse of Bhutanese life before you get to your hotel.

Now that you’re acclimated to Bhutan’s time zone and elevation, you’re ready to hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perched dramatically on a cliffside 3,000 feet above the valley, this trek is challenging yet rewarding. It offers spectacular views and an unforgettable sense of achievement. You can even go inside the monastery, but all cameras, bags and shoes must be left outside.

Bid farewell to this land of the Thunder Dragon early this morning as you transfer to Paro Airport for your departure from Bhutan.