PRIVATE
Bhutan Beckons
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
ACCOMMODATIONS
HEALTH & SAFETY
HEALTH & SAFETY
We are following strict national and international safety guidelines and protocols (Royal Government of Bhutan, WHO, and CDC (US) recommendations) to keep you, our staff, and the Bhutanese people safe. This includes new measures for maintaining personal health and hygiene, social distancing best practices, face covering requirements, cleaning, handwashing and more.
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
With global travel resuming, we have changed our booking and cancellation policies back to normal. Normal cancellation policies are now in effect and final trip payment is due (4 months/120 days before trip start date, whichever is earlier). Trip cancellation policies are outlined in our trip confirmation emails and are available by request.
PEACE OF MIND
April 4 - 11/16, 2024
Option 1 (4/4 to 4/11): $7,680 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
Option 2 (4/4 to 4/16): $10,180 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
PLEASE ADD AIRFARES:
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $540/- per person for two one-way domestic flights from Paro to Bumthang & Yonphula to Paro
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
Option 1 (4/4 to 4/11): $7,680 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
Option 2 (4/4 to 4/16): $10,180 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
PLEASE ADD AIRFARES:
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $540/- per person for two one-way domestic flights from Paro to Bumthang & Yonphula to Paro
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
DATE
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and DO NOT include international airfare to/from your destination or regional flights to Bhutan from Gateway Cities such as Bangkok or Delhi, and internal flights in the country during the expedition.
PLEASE ADD Regional and Domestic airfares as shown under Dates & Prices above. Airfares are subject to change by airline, and surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. ***
We will all arrange such regional flights for our guests and fares will be quoted at airline cost as a courtesy to our guests with no extra booking or reservation fees. Single Traveler supplements will be assessed in addition to our published trip price, and are available on request. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family on dates different from the ones shown above, this expedition can be arranged March through May & October through February.
TRAVEL SEASONS
Option 1 (4/4 to 4/11): $7,680 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
Option 2 (4/4 to 4/16): $10,180 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
PLEASE ADD AIRFARES:
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $540/- per person for two one-way domestic flights from Paro to Bumthang & Yonphula to Paro
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
Option 1 (4/4 to 4/11): $7,680 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
Option 2 (4/4 to 4/16): $10,180 per person/- includes all land costs, government SDF fees ($100 per day); Doubles accommodations
PLEASE ADD AIRFARES:
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $540/- per person for two one-way domestic flights from Paro to Bumthang & Yonphula to Paro
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
DATE
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and DO NOT include international airfare to/from your destination or regional flights to Bhutan from Gateway Cities such as Bangkok or Delhi, and internal flights in the country during the expedition.
PLEASE ADD Regional and Domestic airfares as shown under Dates & Prices above. Airfares are subject to change by airline, and surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. ***
We will all arrange such regional flights for our guests and fares will be quoted at airline cost as a courtesy to our guests with no extra booking or reservation fees. Single Traveler supplements will be assessed in addition to our published trip price, and are available on request. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family on dates different from the ones shown above, this expedition can be arranged March through May & October through February.
TRAVEL SEASONS
2024 Dates & Prices
2024 Dates & Prices
DATES & PRICES
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Flight and airfare costs to and from Bhutan, such as your international flights to a regional Gateway City (e.g., Bangkok or Delhi); roundtrip flights to Bhutan from the regional gateway cities (which will be arranged by us at cost) and internal airfare where applicable for domestic flights in the country (which will also be arranged by us at cost)
Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages
Gratuities
All ground transportation, visas for Bhutan and airport transfers
All Accommodations
All meals, including excursions to try well-known local restaurants
The expertise and services of your Bhutanese Trip Leaders, Guides & dedicated trip field staff
Courtesy booking services & arrangements for round-trip regional flights from gateway cities (such as Bangkok) to Bhutan & any internal domestic flights (airfare is additional).
Sightseeing, special events & receptions, visits, and entry fees
All environmental national parks & conservation fees and permits
All Trek Arrangements (if you signed up for a trek), including expedition-grade high altitude, sub-zero sleeping bags, community camping and commissary equipment (comfortable and roomy two-person tents, kitchen and dining tents, and other community equipment), camp, cook and support staff (we reccomend you bring your own fitted hiking poles and personal sleeping bag liners)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
ITINERARY
PRACTICAL DETAILS
| RECOMMENDED POSTS
TRIP PHOTOGALLERY
Experience firsthand Bhutan’s vibrant Himalayan Buddhist culture on this private journey as we review ongoing Perkins projects in the kingdom. Explore facets of Bhutanese art, architecture, history, and spirituality as we discuss future areas of cooperation in the interest of education accessibility for all in Bhutan in partnership with the Bhutan Foundation, the Bhutanese people, and the royal government. Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions is pleased to offer this invitation-only journey under the auspices of the Perkins International Programs and the Bhutan Foundation. Bhutan's inclusive, humanistic approach to national development makes it a promising place to foster partnerships in pursuit of Perkins International Programs' core beliefs that every child can learn. "Together, we will make education accessible for all children; and we will rebuild a world that includes the 240 million children with disabilities, everywhere, from the start."
SHARE:
Discover the cultural heart of Bhutan and visit collaborative Perkins projects expanding education accessibility for children
APRIL 4: PARO, BHUTAN/THIMPHU
VIEW DAY BY DAY
Fly to Paro via Delhi or Bangkok. Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions will arrange roundtrip flights from Delhi or Bangkok.
KB 203 from Delhi departs at 04:10 a.m. and arrives 06:40 a.m.
KB 127 departs Bangkok at 07:30 a.m. and arrives 10:50 a.m.
Optional activities: Take an acclimation walk over a 17th-century wooden cantilever bridge to climb a steep flagstone path to the valley’s impressive Dzong or monastery fortress. Explore the National Museum’s spiraling galleries of ancient artifacts and natural history exhibits in an ancient watchtower; drive one hour to the capital, Thimphu, followed by dinner with old Perkins friends Nyendo and Pema.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The City Hotel, Thimphu - 3-star Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 5: THIMPHU MEETINGS/GUIDED CITY TOUR
Visit early childhood education and development centers and local parent group, Phensem, to learn about their programs and Perkins’ vision for inclusive children’s education in Bhutan (in collaboration with the Bhutan Foundation and the Bhutanese government). Identify future areas of need and partnership for such impactful programs in Bhutan. Experience the local cuisine and culture: Bhutan Himalaya guides show you around local markets, take you to sample Bhutanese treats, or join you on friendly and informative strolls around the capital city.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The City Hotel, Thimphu - 3-star Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 6: VISIT THIMPHU MONUMENTS/INTRODUCTION TO BHUTAN FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS
Set out for the must-see sites around the city and learn about Bhutan Foundation’s impactful range of activities in Bhutan. Hike from Kuensel Phodrang’s towering bronze Buddha Dordenma to Changangkha and its exquisite thousand-armed “Buddha of Compassion” before stopping to learn about the breadth of the Bhutan Foundation’s contributions to the kingdom’s development and preservation efforts, which include partnerships in conservation, cultural preservation, healthcare, community development, and more. Join locals circumambulating the National Memorial Chorten, a beautiful stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third king; enter majestic Tashichho Dzong, seat of Bhutan’s monastic order, before finishing up at the riverside Tibetan Craft Market to shop for handmade Bhutanese and Himalayan textiles and souvenirs. At day’s end, we’ll introduce you to our secret spot for the tastiest momos in town, where you can try their tender, meat- or vegetable-filled dumplings served with savory broths.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The City Hotel, Thimphu - 3-star Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 7: DOCHULA FOREST BATHING HIKE/PUNAKHA
Depart Thimphu for a forest bathing hike on the trail from 10,000-foot Dochula Pass. Let the healing forest of ancient moss-draped trees take over your senses as you walk a path made picturesque by springtime rhododendron blooms. Enjoy the scenic trail and relish breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys when you reach the top. Afterwards, drive down the mountain to warm, lush Punakha, where our guides escort you on an in-depth late afternoon guided tour of the iconic Punakha Dzong, ending with a walk over the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Zhingkham Resort or the Dhumra Farmstay - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 8: PUNAKHA EXPLORATION/MEETINGS WITH PERKINS PARTNERS
Meet passionate teachers at the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) center in Punakha and stop by the fascinating “Temple of the Divine Madman” on our return to the capital. Stroll through the charming village of Lobeysa, stopping at traditional farmhouses interspersed with charming local shops selling paintings, colorful woodcarvings, metal work and other examples of Bhutan’s 13 arts and crafts. In the evening, attend (or host) an enjoyable and informative dinner reception for Ministry of Education officials and local non-governmental organization partners featuring a literal "fireside chat,” and a richly varied traditional Bhutanese spread by a well-known local food personality.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The City Hotel, Thimphu - 3-star Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 9: THIMPHU/SUPER FAB LAB
Visit the future-forward “Super Fab Lab,” a facility that showcases the future of technology and innovation in Bhutan. Engage with the SFL staff to learn about the role of technology in Bhutan’s development, and how it aligns with the government’s priorities for STEM education. Next, head to the Pema Center for Mental Health and Wellbeing, established under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen, to learn about their work and impact on Bhutanese society, before taking a picturesque drive back to Paro. Settle in your cozy cottage or lodge in Paro to soak in the serene atmosphere of this charming town. Or, if you prefer a guided stroll through Paro’s market center, hunt for unique traditional handmade items to take home as gifts or as reminders of your trip.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Cottages at Olathang or the Tiger’s Nest Safari Camp - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 10: TIGER’S NEST HIKE/ PARO EXPLORATION
Embark on an unforgettable hike to iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a.k.a Paro Taktsang. This is a challenging but most rewarding four-hour roundtrip trek. In the afternoon, take a leisurely tour of Paro’s historic temples, including 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, and the interesting cone-shapoed Dumtseg Lhakhang temple. Our guides will introduce you to the intricate Buddhist architecture and the religious iconography. This evening, attend a farewell bonfire dinner for the first group in a 300-year-old farmhouse where you can choose to take a traditional “hot stone” soak in a wooden tub before dinner (must book in advance; not included in trip price).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Cottages at Olathang or the Tiger’s Nest Safari Camp - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 11: PARO TO BUMTHANG/BUMTHANG VISITS
Group 1 departs for Delhi or Bangkok (Delhi: KB202 departs at 11:55 a.m., arriving 1:45 p.m.; Bangkok: KB152 departs at 11:50 a.m., arriving 4 p.m.)
Group 2 flies to Bumthang on KB012, departing 11 a.m. and landing 11:35 a.m. After checking into our family-owned lodge, the Mountain Resort, enjoy a leisurely guided walk along the valley floor, tracing the old pilgrim’s route connecting temples and monasteries from the 7th to the 17th centuries up to the present day. Return to our lodge for a cozy fireside evening savoring local drinks, regional Bumthangpa cuisine, and a sharing of the day’s anecdotes.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 12: TANG VALLEY EXPLORATION
This morning drive to Tang valley; en route visit the Tang Central School and learn about the SEN program. Then, stop by the Tang Rimochen Lhakhang or 'Great Tiger Print' Temple, a local site of Buddhist pilgrimage. Then we cross the suspension bridge to walk through the picturesque village and take a winding trail up to the Orgyenchhoeling palace museum for lunch with celebrated author Ashi Kunzang Choden and Walter Roder, who are the palace and museum owners.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 13: JAKAR VALLEY EXPLORATION
Visit the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum, a treasure trove of Bhutanese history and culture, which is expanding in scope and significance under the auspices of the Bhutan Foundation and royal patronage. Explore the rare exhibits and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s royal heritage before heading to a Bhutan Foundation-Supported Herbal Tea Farm. Also, call this afternoon at the Bhutan Foundation-supported UWICE (Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environmental Research) institute to dive into Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation and to learn about ongoing research and education. Sample local "Swiss" cheese and schnapps or Red Panda beer in the late afternoon at the Swiss Dairy Farm, followed by a traditional Buddhist blessing at nearby Kharchu monastery. Conclude the day watching a lively evening monastic debate, an ancient tradition of intellectual reasoning and memorization by movement.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 14-15: CHAMKHAR VALLEY HIKE/RETURN FLIGHT TO PARO
APRIL 14
This morning, following following a relaxed morning, we take an easy country ramble up the Chamkhar valley stopping at Thangbi temple and Ngang Lhakhang or 'Swan Temple.' Pre-dinner celebration: schnapps, stroopwafel, cheese and Red Panda beer on tap at Swiss Farm cafe.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort - Deluxe (or similar)
APRIL 15
This morning our morning flight offers scenic views of the Himalayan range departing Bumthang for Yonphula at 08:15 a.m. (KB040) and departing Yonphula at 9:25 a.m. KB041 arrives at Paro International Terminal at 10:10 a.m. Take in breathtaking aerial views of the rugged Eastern Himalayas. Gaze in awe at the towering peaks, deep valleys, and pristine forests as you soar over this remote and majestic region.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Cottages at Olathang Hotel
APRIL 16: DEPARTURE TO BANGKOK
This morning after leisurely breakfast, take the drive to the Paro airport in time for your departing flight Drukair KB152, with take-off at 11:50 a.m. and landing in Bangkok at 4:00 p.m. Thailand time.
Flying to Paro International Airport from Delhi or Bangkok, we explore Bhutan's capital Thimphu and the western cultural centers of Paro and Punakha. On the first leg of this journey we visit the must-see sights and project locations in the western part of the country before Group 1 departs for Delhi or Bangkok and onward home. Group 2 takes a mountain flight to the central heartland of Bhutan to explore more cultural sites and other projects involving both the Bhutan Foundation and Perkins International Programs. Finally, we head east to review the very first Bhutan Foundation Special Education Needs (SEN) Program at the Mongar Middle Secondary School, which receives significant Perkins International support. A final drive to the easternmost district of Trashigang takes us to other key sites including Draktsho and the Muenselling Institute supporting education for the blind and the visually-challenged. This takes us the full breadth of the country before a final, and dramatic, mountain flight return to Paro with a direct connection to Delhi or Bangkok and onward home.
CUSTOM TRIPS
If this trip or schedule doesn't meet your needs, we also arrange private journeys throughout the year with flexible dates.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
EXPEDITION STAFF
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
ABOUT CULTURAL EXPEDITIONS
Our cultural expeditions are bespoke itineraries designed for active travelers that combine guided excursions, cultural insights, art and customs, with distinguished accommodations featuring a traditional ambience. Our journeys are small group adventures, with a maximum of 16 guests per group. Unlike most tour providers, we seek to maintain an intimate ratio of four guests per Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions guide, not counting support staff. This ensures that our journeys feel more like a shared adventure with local friends than a tourist's jaunt through the countryside.
GETTING THERE
Fly from your home city to Bangkok, Singapore, New Delhi Kolkata, or Kathmandu (Main Gateway Cities)*
Overnight
Fly from Gateway City to Paro, Bhutan.
IMPORTANT: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions makes round-trip flight arrangements from the Gateway City of your choice to Bhutan as a courtesy to our travelers. Airfare is not included in trip price.
For further details please email us contact us using the Reserve Online button on this page.
*Bangkok is the primary Gateway City and offers the most frequent and most reliable flights to Bhutan.
OUR TRAVEL EXTENSIONS
(with optional Bangkok Transit arrangements)
If you're thinking of traveling to some of the other interesting destinations in the region before or after Bhutan you may like to consider our travel extensions. That way you can spend less time juggling and coordinating multiple bookings and more time experiencing the magnificent World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, a peaceful Laotian sojourn, discovering Vietnam or experiencing India.
For further details, and to see past travel extensions, please visit our Regional Extensions page.
WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING
“Karma and his team perfectly orchestrated a wonderful series of valuable insights into Bhutan and Bhutanese culture. My particular area of interest was to learn about Bhutan’s challenge of balancing the goals of their Gross National Happiness Policy with the need to grow their economy and promote industry in the kingdom, which Karma addressed by arranging fascinating meetings with Bhutan’s Economic Affairs Ministers and other Bhutanese dignitaries and media personalities. A fantastic trip all-around with great hiking, culture, current affairs, insights into Buddhism and everything in-between.”
~ Heinrich Karl Friedrich Eduard Pierer von Esch, ex CEO, Siemens AG-Germany (front, third from left)
ACCOMMODATIONS
High-end traditional lodges
GROUP SIZE
Private
DURATION (1) 8 days; (2) 13 days
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy to Moderate
Or call 1-855-4-BHUTAN (248826)
TRIP TYPE
ACTIVE ● CULTURE
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