Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey

A luxury tour of Bhutan's hidden valleys, Himalayan mountainscapes and a thrilling helicopter journey 

Shrouded in mystery, Bhutan is a spiritual Kingdom snug in the Himalayas that receives few visitors. On this private 12-day luxury tour, you'll visit Bhutan's gorgeous central valleys, quirky capital, and a remote village in the high Himalayan alpine. You'll slumber in dreamy, five-star luxury lodges, spend a memorable night at a monastery, and overnight at a tented camp enveloped by wilderness. Traveling by private vehicle and driver, and taking a scenic helicopter transfer, you'll experience the best of Bhutan in total comfort. Highlights include hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery, visiting postcard-pretty dzongs (fortresses), perhaps attending a spirited tscechu (religious festival), trekking or biking the most spectacular Himalayan trails, savoring regional specialties on wilderness picnics, and simply imbibing the serenity that reverberates through this pristine Shangri-La.  

Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey: 11 nights/12 days

Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey Trip Highlights

Helicopter Excursion: Visit the remote village of Laya in the region of Gasa. Situated in the high Himalayan alpine and inaccessible by road, you’ll travel via a thrilling and scenic helicopter ride. Upon arrival you’ll be welcomed by a headsman, who will introduce you to the semi-nomadic Layaps who live here, in one of the highest-elevation human settlements in the world. Continue onward to the Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey) by helicopter. 
An Iconic Hike: Clinging to the side of a cliff perched thousands of feet above the floor of the Paro Valley, Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) is venerated as one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. A moderately challenging hike leads you to the monastery and rewards with spectacular views. Upon arrival, enter the sacred cave, take tea, and enjoy guided meditation alongside the high lama. 
Wilderness Camp: In Bumthang, an enchanting region known as Bhutan's "cultural heartland," spend an evening ensconced by the Himalayan forest. At your own exclusive-use camp, a dedicated hospitality team will cater field picnics, an al fresco dinner, and a bonfire Bhutanese whiskey tasting. Use Sangwa Camp as a base for cultural and outdoorsy adventures such as darts and archery, and ranger-guided hikes. Receive a personalized astrology reading, enjoy a massage, and much more.
Luxury Lodges Steeped in Culture: Retreat to five-star luxury lodges nestled into secluded spots in Bhutan’s best valleys. Some offer suites sequestered in the woods, while others boast rooms with sweeping mountain views from sky-reaching perches. At Six Senses Thimphu, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, Gangtey Lodge, Amankora Bumthang and Amankora Paro, you’ll dine on regional dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients, luxuriate in dreamy pools or ensuite bathtubs, experience Bhutanese rituals, all while receiving intuitive hospitality that’s delivered on a first-name basis.
An Exclusive Al Fresco Dinner & Outing: Take a seat at an al fresco, candlelit table backdropped by the Punakha Dzong—reputed to be Bhutan’s prettiest fortress. Linger over a long dinner before setting off down the Punatsangchhu River for a gentle float, chorused by traditional music. You’ll arrive at a private beach where a bonfire setup awaits beneath a starry night sky. 
A Spiritual Day with Trongsa’s Monks: In Trongsa, you’ll be warmly greeted by His Eminence Khedrupchen Rinpoche. Take an audience with him and participate in a guided meditation. Meet the young monks, perhaps taking a guided forest walk to better understand their connection to nature. Share dinner with the monks, observe evening prayer soundtracked by spellbinding chanting, and overnight at Sangchen Ogyen Monastery. 
Tour Sacred Architectural Wonders: White-washed dzong fortresses, goemba (monasteries), and temples dot Bhutan’s valleys. From eye-catching to imposing, they stand like multi-tier wedding cakes, contrasted against their forested settings. On this Luxury Bhutan itinerary, you’ll have as many opportunities to visit them as you please. (Prepare to receive countless blessings.) A few notable stops include Rinpung Dzong (Paro), Punakha Dzong, Gangtay Goenba Monastery, Tamshing Lhakhang monastery (Bumthang), and the infamous Chimi Lhakhang fertility temple (Punakha). 
Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding: Bhutan is an ideal destination for slow travel. Experience it at a walking pace while following tranquil hiking trails, from the elevated vantage of a saddle, or the joyful pace of a bicycle.  
Wellness Practices: From herb-infused, traditional hot stone bathes to the Zen-like atmosphere of Bhutan’s best luxury lodges spas, serene Bhutan is a restorative place for body and mind. Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey is peppered with opportunities to experience culturally rooted wellness treatments.

Price

$50,300 per person, based on two people sharing.

Rate is inclusive of all accommodations, meals, guides, a private luxury vehicle and driver, special events, and government fees and visas.

Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey on a Map

Easy Extensions

With flights from Delhi and Katmandu to Paro, it’s easy to combine Bhutan travel with Nepal or India. (We recommend saving luxurious Bhutan for last.)