Classic Bhutan

A Spiritually-Imbued Journey Through Bhutan's Sublime Mountainscapes and Sacred Places

Cradled within the Himalayan Mountains, Bhutan is a country that some describe as the last Shangri-La on Earth. In this mystery-cloaked Kingdom, vast forests carpet its foothills; ancient monasteries, temples, and dzong fortresses cling to valley walls; and locals live mindful, balanced lives informed by Buddhist teachings. From its world-renowned Gross Domestic Happiness philosophy to forward-looking environmental policies that have made it one of the world's few carbon-negative countries, Bhutan has forged its own path in a rapidly modernizing world. Simply put, there is no place like it.

On a 10-day Classic Bhutan itinerary, visit three enchanting valleys in the Kingdom's heartland, enjoying experiences that epitomize Bhutan. Join red-robed monks in meditation inside ancient temples, traverse well-worn paths to sacred caves high in the mountains, and admire some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes on Earth. The ideal destination for slow travel, savor moments like soaking up the warmth of a hot stone bath as fog creeps across a lost-to-time valley outside or sharing stories with Bhutanese families as they welcome you into their home. Balance the earthbound with the divine, feeling the ground beneath your feet on Himalayan hikes and then turning inward as you step inside hushed monasteries to receive blessings or welcome in knowledge as you light butter lamps. Each evening, you'll retreat to some of the best luxury lodges in Bhutan.

Come see for yourself why Bhutan is known as one of the happiest countries in the world, and bring that wisdom home with you as the ultimate souvenir from your Classic Bhutan voyage.

Classic Bhutan: 9 Nights / 10 Days

Classic Bhutan Trip Highlights

Journey to Bhutan’s Most Iconic Temple: From its awe-inspiring perch high above the Paro Valley to its rich history as one of the birthplaces of Bhutanese Buddhism, Tiger’s Nest Monastery is arguably the Kingdom’s most iconic landmark. Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims along winding paths through forests, then step inside sacred caves where Buddhist masters once meditated. Enjoy a privately guided tour of Tiger's Nest Monastery and an exclusive mountainside meal served with a valley view.
Outdoor Pursuits in Pristine, Himalayan Nature: Home to riverine valleys, sky-scraping mountain passes, and great swaths of forest, Bhutan is a pristine natural paradise. You'll have ample opportunities to appreciate panoramic views during scenic drives and from luxury suites, but you'll also get to adventure through these sublime mountainscapes. Raft down glacial rivers, cross lengthy suspension bridges, hike through pine forests to reach hidden temples, and horseback ride or cycle through serene meadows.
Visit Sacred Monuments and Spiritual Landmarks: With cloud-white walls and red roofs, Bhutan’s dramatic dzong fortresses and fantastical monasteries and temples are a sight not-to-be-missed sight…quite literally, the bold colors and regal profiles stand in stark contrast to their forested and mountainside surroundings. Alongside an expert, tour Punakha Dzong (widely considered Bhutan's prettiest fortress), marvel at the ornate artwork of the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery, and step inside one of the largest Buddha statues on Earth.
Spiritual Seeking: From mountaintop monasteries to candlelit sanctuaries where the devout seek guidance, immerse yourself in Bhutan’s Buddhist culture and heritage. Receive blessings from high lamas, join nuns in prayer, meditate with monks, light butter lamps, and sit inside sacred caves high in the mountains where you just might encounter the divine.
Cultural Connections: Closed off from the world for so long (the first tourists arrived in 1974), the compassionate and welcoming people of Bhutan love introducing travelers to their unique way of life. Learn how to prepare traditional Bhutanese dishes during cooking classes, visit the home of a farming family, meet with school students, and wander the streets of towns and villages where you can shop for artisanal wares.
Sumptuous Lodges in Stunning Locales: In Bhutan, "remote" does not mean "roughing it." In fact, the Kingdom's commitment to sustainability means you'll find luxury lodges in Bhutan's most-visited valleys. Evoking the serenity and seclusion of the Kingdom’s monasteries, properties here cater to only a handful of guests at a time, ensuring peace, quiet, and superior service with a bespoke touch. Sleep in airy, valley-view rooms overlooking the Mo Chu River at the COMO Uma Punakha, stay above the clouds at the ridgetop Six Senses Paro, and soak up the sun and vistas from the terrace of the Gangtey Lodge. With locally-driven culinary programs and spa treatments grounded in Bhutanese wellness, continue to experience all that the Kingdom has to offer well after the day’s adventures are done.
Rare and Revered Wildlife: Regal, endangered, and highly auspicious, spotting a black-necked crane is a rare opportunity, attracting wildlife enthusiasts to Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey). Gangtey's tranquil forests and serene, protected meadows are also a refuge for bears, deer, boar, and foxes.

Price

Starting at $16,900 per person, based on two persons sharing in 2024.

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

Classic Bhutan 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.)