WESTERN REGION
Celebrating 40 years of Bhutan Foundation at the spectacular Royal Highland Festival
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.
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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.
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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.
​
A special journey commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Bhutan Foundation
In celebration of the Bhutan Foundation’s 40th Anniversary, this exclusive expedition brings together board members, partners, and friends to honor four decades of collaboration, vision, and enduring friendship.
Tracing a route from the heart of the capital through emerald valleys to the high mountain realms of Laya, this journey intertwines moments of reflection, cultural discovery, and shared purpose.
From the monasteries of Thimphu and the rice terraces of Punakha to the highland festivities of Laya, this anniversary journey celebrates Bhutan’s living heritage—and the remarkable partnership that has helped nurture it since 1986.
This is more than a journey through the mountains; it is a tribute to connection, community, and the spirit of Gross National Happiness.
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
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 available by request.
ITINERARY
40th Anniversary Highlights
Celebrate the Bhutan Foundation’s 40th year of impact through field visits, reflections, and milestone gatherings with local partners.
Experience the Royal Highland Festival in Laya, a vivid celebration of nomadic heritage amid snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Explore the essence of the kingdom—from the trails, temples and monasteries to the traditional medicine and education centers of Thimphu.
Connect and reflect with Bhutanese leaders, partners, and communities who have shaped the Foundation’s story over four decades.
VIEW DAY BY DAY
OCTOBER 18, SUNDAY: ARRIVE IN BHUTAN (THIMPHU)
Arrive in Paro on one of the world’s most scenic flights, threading between Himalayan peaks before descending into the emerald valley. After a warm Bhutanese welcome, continue by road to Thimphu, Bhutan’s dynamic capital and the heart of the Foundation’s work. The remainder of the day is for rest and gentle acclimatization, followed by an informal evening reception marking the beginning of this commemorative journey.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 19, MONDAY: HERITAGE OF HEALING & INCLUSIVE LEARNING
Begin your Bhutan experience with a morning visit to the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, where ancient Himalayan healing arts and modern research meet in harmony. Later, visit the Special Education School, one of the Foundation’s earliest partner institutions, where inclusivity and compassion shape young lives. Meet students and teachers who embody Bhutan’s enduring values of empathy and resilience.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 20, TUESDAY: BOARD MEETING & ANNIVERSARY DINNER
Morning and early afternoon are devoted to the 40th Anniversary Board Meeting, reflecting on milestones, achievements, and the Foundation’s evolving mission. In the evening, gather with Bhutanese partners for a Celebratory Dinner, a joyful occasion honoring four decades of friendship and shared endeavor, accompanied by traditional music and storytelling.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 21, WEDNESDAY: DRIVE TO PUNAKHA & SGP FIELD VISIT
Depart Thimphu for Punakha, crossing the breathtaking Dochula Pass (10,300 ft) with its 108 memorial chortens and sweeping Himalayan views. Descend into the subtropical valley, where terraced rice fields line the riverbanks. Visit a Small Grants Programme (SGP) field project, meeting community leaders whose work reflects the Foundation’s grassroots partnerships and the living principles of Gross National Happiness.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 22, THURSDAY: DRIVE TO LAYA (3.5 - 4 HOURS) & STEEP HIKE (2-4 HOURS)
Travel north along turquoise rivers and forested slopes toward Gasa, then continue by foot along a scenic mountain trail to Laya, Bhutan’s highest permanent settlement. The two-to-three-hour hike brings you to this story book realm of stone, earth and wood homes connected by ancient stone paths, the dwellings set against a steeply rising mountain slope surrounded by snow-capped peaks. On arriva, expect a warm welcome from the Layap community, and settle into your expedition camp or authentic local family homestay.
Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes
OCTOBER 23, FRIDAY: ROYAL HIGHLAND FESTIVAL, LAYA
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary Royal Highland Festival. Witness color‑saturated dances, traditional Layap songs, and an extraordinary yak pageant, where animals adorned with finery parade through the village. Sample highlander cuisine, sit with families in their homes, and marvel at a festival that bridges ancient customs with modern Bhutanese pride. Each night, return to our expedition camp or village lodging, the valley echoing with the sounds of singing and laughter.
Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes
OCTOBER 24, SATURDAY: ROYAL HIGHLAND FESTIVAL CONTINUES
Spend another day amid the festival’s vibrant rhythms. Share in traditional highlander meals, meet community elders, and join in toasts with local families celebrating both their culture and the visiting guests who have long stood beside them. As night falls, music and laughter fill the crisp mountain air—an alpine celebration of friendship and forty years of shared progress.
Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes
OCTOBER 25, SUNDAY: RETURN TO PUNAKHA
Descend early from the highlands on foot to the roadhead, then continue by vehicle back to Punakha. The warmer valley air and green fields bring a soothing change after the alpine heights. Rest at your riverside lodge and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 26, MONDAY: DRIVE TO PARO/TIGER'S NEST HIKE
Today, we drive back west over the Dochula Pass to Paro, arriving in time for an early lunch, following which we make the climb up to iconic Tiger's Nest monastery. The hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched on the cliff, suspended between earth and sky, is alway worth the effort and a wonderful way to close the trip.
Tonight we have a traditional Himalayan farewell at a friend's centuries-old farmhouse in the middle of a village in Paro, or enjoy a relaxed farewell evening at the distinctive Bukhari Restaurant at Uma Paro Lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 27, TUESDAY: MORNING & AFTERNOON DEPARTURE
If your return flight home is via Bangkok, there will be time in the morning to drive up the valley and visit the beautifully restored Drukgyel Dzong, or walk through the galleries of the National Museum, or shop and people-watch along the main street of Paro. In the afternoon, following lunch, your 4:20 pm flight departs and brings you back to Bangkok, where you can connect onward to your flight home or to other destinations.
Alternately, if you're taking one of the earlier flights to destination cities other than Bangkok, enjoy a relaxed breakfast, before transferring to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
As your flight ascends above the Himalayas, carry with you the warmth of Bhutanese friendship and the memory of a journey marking four decades of the Bhutan Foundation’s legacy of compassion, partnership, and purpose.
LODGES
October 18 to 20
Accommodations included: The Capital Hotel or comparable
Luxury (lodge) upgrades: The Pema by Realm (from $75 plus taxes nightly), Zhiwa Ling Ascent (from $250 plus taxes nightly), Le Meridien, Thimphu ($750 plus taxes nightly), Thimphu Pemako ($800 plus taxes nightly)
October 21
Accommodations included: The Zhingkham Resort, The Dhumra Farmstay or comparable
Luxury (lodge) upgrades: The Uma Punakha by COMO (from $800 plus taxes nightly); The Punakha Pemako, & the &Beyond Punakha River Lodge (from $1,200 plus taxes nightly)
October 22 to 24
Accommodations included: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes
Boutique lodge) upgrade: Home Tale Laya from $100 per person doubles plus taxes; $200 per person doubles plus taxes (availability will be confirmed end February 2026; limited availability with maximum capacity for 8 guests)
October 25
Accommodations included: The Zhingkham Resort, The Dhumra Farmstay or comparable
Luxury (lodge) upgrades: The Uma Punakha by COMO (from $800 plus taxes nightly); The Punakha Pemako, & the &Beyond Punakha River Lodge (from $1,200 plus taxes nightly)
October 26
Accommodations included: The Deluxe Cottages at Olathang Hotel or comparable
Luxury (lodge) upgrades: The Uma Paro by COMO (from $800 plus taxes nightly) or comparable; The Zhiwa Ling Heritage Paro (from $1,200 plus taxes nightly) or comparable
October 27
Departure
ALTITUDE & ACCLIMATIZATION
While the remainder of the trip is safe for general participation, please note that Laya village center where we will spend 2-3 nights is approximately at 12,400 feet, which is 3,780 meters. The Laya Festival Grounds is at an elevation of approximately 13,000 feet, which is 3,962 meters.
If you haven’t spent time at those altitudes, but are physically fit and can hike steep uphill and downhill rocky paths and trails (we recommend the use of hiking poles), we are offering a few additional days of safer acclimatization hiking in Bhutan to help with the altitude exposure before arriving in Laya.
The acclimatization will take us on a drive from Paro at approximately 6,800 feet (2,073 meters) to 13,000 feet (3,962 meters) at the Chele La Pass before descending to Haa Valley at approximately 8,500 to 9,000 feet to do some hiking. Then, a full day trek from Haa back to Paro over the Kaleyla Pass will bring us to just under 12,000 feet with safe options to descend to Haa Valley and take a drive to Paro instead if the altitude concerns persist.
The second acclimatization hike will take us from Dochula at 10,000 (2,591 meters) feet to Lungchutse, just under 12,000 feet (3,658 meters).
The one day trip from Punakha to Laya will start with a 4.5 hour drive from 4,000 feet to 5,000 feet (1,219 meters to 1,524 meters) and end with a 3 to 4.5-hour hike to Laya at 12,400 feet (3,780 meters) from the end of the road at Takshimakha Army Camp.
For those with further altitude concerns, we will arrange a slower approach to Laya with an additional day in Gasa on October 21 or October 22. This will include a two-and-half-hour drive, approximately, from Punakha to Gasa at 9,200–9,350 feet (roughly 2,800–2,850 meters), with an overnight in Gasa in a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse hosted by a local family (with shared bath and toilets). The following day, we will drive from Gasa to Takshimakha Army Camp, roughly at 10,755 feet (3,278 meters), which will take 1.5 to 2 hours, followed by the steep uphill trek to Laya (2.5 hours to upto 4 hours depending on fitness and ability). This day's trek will present an elevation gain of approximately 1,700 to 1,800 feet or 518 to 549 meters. Please note that all elevations shown are close estimates and not exact figures.
A NOTE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION FROM PUNAKHA TO GASA
Please note that the drive from Punakha to Gasa will be in our four-wheel-drives and Toyota High-Roof Vans. The drive from Gasa to Laya, under current conditions, will take place in four-wheel-drive Bolero (Jeeps), more suited to the rough terrain. Boleros are less comfortable than our regular transportation for the remainder of the trip.