Bhutan
Embark on a magical journey to Bhutan, a hidden gem nestled in the eastern Himalayas. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan offers a unique and authentic travel experience like no other. From its awe-inspiring landscapes and ancient monasteries to its vibrant cultural festivals and warm-hearted people, Bhutan is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. Get ready to discover the enchanting beauty and spiritual richness of this mystical kingdom.
Explore Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in its pristine natural beauty. Trek through the picturesque valleys of Paro and Punakha, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Discover the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched on a cliffside and offering a mesmerizing panoramic view of the valley below. Experience the serenity of Bhutan’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, where you can encounter rare species like the takin and black-necked crane. Whether you’re hiking to remote mountain villages or simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature, Bhutan’s landscapes provide a rejuvenating escape from the modern world.
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and witness its deeply rooted traditions. Explore the ancient dzongs (fortresses) that serve as religious and administrative centres, showcasing stunning Bhutanese architecture. Attend colourful religious festivals, known as tsechus, where masked dances, vibrant costumes, and religious rituals come together to celebrate Bhutan’s spiritual traditions. Engage with local communities and experience their warm hospitality by staying in traditional farmhouses and participating in cultural exchanges. Bhutan’s culture and traditions offer a unique insight into the country’s way of life and provide a truly immersive travel experience.
Discover the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) in Bhutan, a concept that prioritizes the well-being and happiness of its people over material wealth. Engage in mindfulness and meditation practices, learn from revered Buddhist monks, and find inner peace amidst the serene surroundings. Indulge in Bhutanese cuisine, known for its rich flavours and use of locally sourced ingredients. Sample delicious dishes such as ema datshi (chilli and cheese), momo (dumplings), and suja (butter tea). Bhutan’s focus on holistic well-being and sustainable living offers a refreshing and transformative experience for travellers seeking a deeper connection.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Best to visit in our winter (November to March), to avoid the summer monsoon, even though the winters are cooler.
FLIGHT TIME
Up to 12 hours, depending on the route.
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +6 (Bhutan Time)
CURRENCY
Bhutanese Ngultrum & Indian Rupee
IDEAL FOR
Those who want to experience a traditional Buddhist way of life, paired with spectacular scenery and a fascinating culture.
HOW TO GET THERE
There are no direct flights from the UK, with connecting services available from both India and Thailand.
LANGUAGE
Dzongkha
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
With flights operating from India and Thailand, it’s easy to combine something cultural like the Golden Triangle in India, or a city break in Bangkok first.
Our Favourite Places in Bhutan
Suggested Itineraries
Bhutan Highlights
12 day holiday
Kolkata, Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, Paro
This short but immersive tour of Bhutan begins and ends in Kolkata, offering a fascinating exploration of the country’s highlights. After a day in Kolkata, you’ll fly to Paro and drive to Thimphu, where you’ll visit the city’s famous dzongs and other cultural landmarks. From there, you’ll head to Gangtey, known for its scenic beauty and the black-necked cranes that migrate to the area. The tour continues to Punakha, where you’ll explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, and then proceeds to Paro, where you’ll hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery and visit other key sites.
Throughout the journey, you’ll experience a blend of Bhutan’s rich culture, wildlife, and natural beauty. You’ll enjoy a mix of sightseeing, walking tours, and cultural activities, including a chance to try archery, the national sport of Bhutan. The tour concludes with a return to Kolkata for a final overnight stay before flying back to the UK, offering a perfect introduction to the magic and mystery of Bhutan’s serene landscapes and spiritual sites.
Mountain Kingdoms of Nepal & Bhutan
16 day holiday
Kathmandu, Paro, Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang, Gangtey
This 16-day journey through Bhutan and Nepal offers a rich exploration of their shared Tibetan-Buddhist heritage and stunning mountain landscapes. Starting in Kathmandu, you’ll visit historic landmarks such as Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and Pashupatinath before heading to Bhutan. The tour takes you from Paro to Thimphu, where you’ll see famous dzongs, then continues to Trongsa and Bumthang, where you’ll explore ancient temples and villages in Eastern Bhutan. Highlights include visits to the Phobjikha Valley and the black-necked crane centre, as well as the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.
Throughout the trip, you’ll experience a variety of cultural and natural wonders, with scenic drives and hikes offering unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The itinerary blends exploration of Bhutan’s spiritual sites with Nepal’s medieval palaces and pagodas, providing a deep dive into the rich heritage of both countries. The journey concludes with a return to Kathmandu for one final night before heading back to the UK.
Eastern Bhutan
17 day holiday
Delhi, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, Bumthang, Trashigang, Guwahati
This off-the-beaten-track journey explores Bhutan’s remote eastern valleys, beginning with a short stop in Delhi before flying into Paro. After visiting the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the route passes through Bhutan’s cultural and religious heartlands – Thimphu, Punakha and Gangtey – with visits to grand dzongs, alpine valleys and the Phobjikha wetland, home to the revered black-necked cranes. From there, the journey pushes deeper into the east via the dramatic Trumshingla Pass, stopping in Bumthang and Mongar before reaching Trashigang, one of Bhutan’s most secluded and picturesque districts.
The final stretch takes travellers to the Indo-Bhutanese border at Samdrup Jongkhar and across into Assam, finishing in the riverside city of Guwahati. With dramatic landscapes, deeply rooted traditions and far fewer visitors than the west, this route offers a rare chance to experience Bhutan at its most authentic. A flight back to Delhi rounds off this truly memorable adventure.
The Bhutan Journey
16 day holiday
Kolkata, Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang, Gangtey, Punakha, Paro
This in-depth journey through Bhutan begins with a brief stay in Kolkata before heading into the heart of the Himalayas. After arriving in Paro, the route continues to Thimphu, Bhutan’s lively capital, then over scenic mountain passes to reach Trongsa and Bumthang, one of the country’s most historic and fertile valleys. Along the way, you’ll explore majestic dzongs, visit sacred monasteries such as Kurje and Jambey Lhakhang, and take in sweeping views of forested valleys and distant peaks. Time in Gangtey offers a chance to learn about the revered black-necked cranes that winter in the Phobjikha Valley.
From Gangtey, the trip winds west again through Punakha – where the dzong’s riverside setting makes it one of Bhutan’s most beautiful – before returning to Paro for the trip’s grand finale: a walk to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Sightseeing continues back in Kolkata, with visits to its colonial-era landmarks and lively markets, offering a final contrast to Bhutan’s tranquil mountain culture before returning to the UK.
Bhutan with Six Senses
11 day holiday
Delhi, Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, Paro
This luxury Bhutan journey is designed for couples marking a special occasion, with stays at exceptional Six Senses lodges throughout the trip. After a brief stop in Delhi, you’ll fly into Paro and travel on to Thimphu, where your hillside retreat provides sweeping views and indulgent spa experiences. From here, continue to the remote and peaceful Gangtey Valley for two nights – a haven for nature lovers and home to the elegant black-necked cranes. The adventure then moves to Punakha, where dramatic dzongs and river views frame your stay, before ending in Paro, with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
The tour opens and closes with an overnight in Delhi to streamline international flight connections, but the itinerary can be adjusted to begin or end in Kathmandu, or to skip the India leg entirely if preferred. With scenic drives, peaceful walks and time to enjoy world-class wellness facilities in spectacular locations, this is a journey designed to balance adventure with deep relaxation.
Bhutan’s Five Valleys
15 day holiday
Kathmandu, Paro, Haa, Thimpu, Punakha, Gangey
This two-week journey through Bhutan is ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking a more immersive and active escape. Beginning with a stopover in Kathmandu, the itinerary covers Bhutan’s major highlights – from striking dzongs and sacred monasteries to lush, remote valleys. You’ll explore varied landscapes including rice terraces, rhododendron forests, and snow-capped peaks while discovering rural life up close through a series of scenic, guided walks. Destinations include Paro, the hidden Haa Valley, the capital Thimphu, and the serene Punakha and Gangtey Valleys, each offering a distinct experience of Bhutanese culture and natural beauty.
The trip is carefully paced with accessible walks that require only a moderate level of fitness, often on level ground with transport waiting at the finish. Accompanied throughout by an expert local guide, you’ll gain insights into the country’s spiritual heritage and traditional way of life, all while enjoying moments of stillness in dramatic Himalayan settings. Whether you’re hiking to a hidden monastery or enjoying tea in a village farmhouse, this is a thoughtful blend of soft adventure and cultural discovery.
