WESTERN & CENTRAL BHUTAN
Celebrating 40 Years of Bhutan Foundation with an in-depth cultural journey
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.
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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 special 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 the fertile river valleys of western Bhutan and into the quiet highland landscapes of Khotokha and Gangtey, the journey weaves together moments of reflection, cultural discovery, and shared purpose.
From the sophisticated charms and celebrations in Thimphu to the rice terraces of Punakha, its sacred hermitage caves, and the open mountain meadows of Khotokha, the journey unfolds through places where Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural life continues to thrive. In the broad valleys of Gangtey and Bumthang—long supported by Bhutan Foundation initiatives—guests encounter firsthand the communities and landscapes that have shaped the Foundation’s work for decades.
Together these experiences illuminate 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 celebration of connection, community, and the enduring 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 Khotokha, Gangtey and Bumthang, a vivid celebration of central Bhutanese culture and the decades-spanning work of the Bhutan Foundation
Visit Foundation-supported initiatives such as the Samcholing Tea Project, the The Wangduechhoeling Palace and Museum and SGP community programs.
Explore the essence of the kingdom—from the monasteries of Bumthang 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: Breakfast, 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: REMOTE SACRED SITES OF PUNAKHA
In the fertile folds of the Punakha Valley, where the Pho and Mo rivers braid through terraced rice fields, we venture beyond the well-known monuments into quieter spiritual landscapes.
Our morning leads us to the remote Goen Tshephu Caves, hidden among forested slopes above the valley floor. These sacred meditation caves have long been associated with Bhutanese yogis and hermits who sought retreat in silence. The approach requires a short hike through mixed woodland and village farmland, revealing a more intimate and contemplative side of Punakha’s spiritual geography.
We continue to visit additional holy sites in the surrounding hills before arriving at Zangthopelri Temple, commissioned by Her Majesty The Queen Mother. This serene temple complex, dedicated to Guru Rinpoche’s celestial paradise, rises in luminous white against the green valley backdrop. Intricate murals and gilded statues reflect Bhutan’s refined devotional artistry.
The afternoon remains unhurried, allowing time for reflection, photography, or quiet conversation overlooking the river valley.
Meals: all meals included
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 23, FRIDAY: MONASTIC DEVOTION & THE LUNGTAA ART FESTIVAL
This morning, we drive up past dense temperate forests and open hillside villages and rice terraces to Chorten Nyingbo Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage temples. Inside the softly lit assembly hall, butter lamps flicker as monks chant morning prayers. Guests are invited to participate respectfully in the ritual, sharing in a simple monastic breakfast afterward—red rice, ema datshi, tea—offered in a spirit of hospitality and connection.
Later in the day, if our old friend Kama Wangdi is in residence, we visit him at the nearby hilltop Potolo art sanctuary to learn more about the year-long Lungtaa Art Festival, an inspiring initiative that seeks to reduce the environmental impact of synthetic prayer flags. As part of the festival, Asha and his understudy artists have been working with children, youth, monks and community members to promote traditional, biodegradable materials and thoughtful environmental stewardship. Through workshops and exhibitions, the festival bridges ancient symbolism with contemporary ecological awareness—an elegant example of Bhutan’s evolving cultural consciousness.
Meals: all meals included
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 24, SATURDAY: KHOTOKHA GYALSUNG, HIGH FOREST TREK & TRANSFER TO GANGTEY
An early morning departure from Wangdue carries us northward along the winding mountain road toward the broad highland basin of Khotokha Valley (approximately 30–60 minutes by road). The landscape gradually shifts from subtropical river valley to cool conifer forest before opening suddenly into expansive meadows framed by low green ridges.
Here we visit the remarkable Gyalsung Academy, Bhutan’s visionary national youth initiative. A guided walk introduces the Academy’s mission of leadership, service, and nation-building, set within architecture that harmonizes traditional Bhutanese design with forward-looking purpose.
From Khotokha we begin our trek toward Gogona, following ancient forest trails that link western and central Bhutan. The walk takes approximately 5–6 hours, and although not at a high altitude like Laya, still requires a good level of physical fitness and ability to occasionally hike long days.
The morning begins gently across the open Khotokha basin (approx. 2,700–2,900 m), often brushed with lingering mist. Gradually the trail enters rich forests of fir, oak, spruce, rhododendron, juniper, and bamboo, climbing steadily toward Shobjula Pass (approx. 3,400–3,700 m). Lunch will be near the pass, where clearings reveal views back toward Khotokha and across layered ridgelines known for its distinctive yak-herding traditions and handwoven textiles. The afternoon descent leads gently down through forest into pastureland and the pastoral village of Gogona (approx. 3,000–3,100 m).
Vehicles meet us in Gogona for the scenic drive onward into the broad glacial valley of Gangtey Valley, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
For guests who prefer not to trek, a direct mountain drive from Khotokha to Gangtey follows winding forest roads and open pastureland, with opportunities for short scenic stops en route.
Meals: all meals included
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 25, SUNDAY: A RELAXED DAY IN GANGTEY VALLEY
Awaken to the expansive quiet of the Phobjikha wetlands, a vast U-shaped glacial valley surrounded by pine forest and open marshland.
We begin at the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, where conservation experts share insights into the protection of the endangered cranes that winter here after migrating from the Tibetan Plateau.
A leisurely walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail winds through pine forests and meadow, offering classic views of farmhouses scattered across the valley floor and, in winter months, the crane habitat in the marshlands.
During the day we visit select initiatives supported by the Bhutan Foundation, gaining firsthand insights into projects supporting local nomadic health camps, community diary cooperatives and other similar endeavors that are quietly strengthening rural life in this region.
The afternoon remains intentionally relaxed—time for photography, journaling, or simply absorbing the stillness of the high valley before gathering for a peaceful evening meal.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 26, MONDAY: DRIVE TO BUMTHANG VIA SAMCHOLING
Journey eastward through mountain passes and scenic countryside toward Bumthang, Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual center. En route, visit the Samcholing Tea Project, an initiative supported by the Foundation that highlights the balance between heritage preservation and community development. Continue into Bumthang’s tranquil valley, surrounded by monasteries and whispering forests.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 27, TUESDAY: WANGDUECHHOELING PALACE & SGP ENGAGEMENT
Visit the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace, former royal residence and now a museum preserving Bhutan’s early monarchical heritage. Later, meet with local partners and SGP representatives to exchange insights on ongoing community projects such as the Bee-Keeping and Noodle-Making initiative—a living example of Bhutan’s approach to sustainable livelihoods.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 28, WEDNESDAY: BUMTHANG’S SACRED VALLEYS
Spend the day exploring Bumthang’s ancient monasteries and pilgrimage routes, visiting Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, and the quiet streets of Jakar. Sample local cheese and honey—legacies of Swiss-Bhutanese collaboration dating to the Foundation’s early years. In the evening, gather for a reflective dinner celebrating forty years of friendship, service, and shared vision for Bhutan’s future. Alternately, we trek to Tang to visit the Ogyen Choling Museum where we enjoy the hospitality of Ashi Kunzang Roder and her Swiss Forester husband, Walter Roder at their beautiful old restored traditional Bhutanese 'castle'.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 29, THURSDAY: FLIGHT TO PARO
Take a scenic flight westward to Paro, gliding above deep valleys and emerald hills. The rest of the day is free for rest, light touring, or reflection. In the evening, join for a final celebratory toast to the Foundation’s milestone anniversary—forty years of shared purpose in the land of happiness.
Tonight we have a traditional Himalayan farewell in a centuries-old farmhouse in the middle of a village in Paro, or enjoy a friendly archery match and farewell evening at the Uma Paro Lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Please see Lodges at the end of the itinerary
OCTOBER 30, FRIDAY: TIGER'S NEST HIKE/DEPARTURE
If your return flight home is via Bangkok, there will be time to make a final pilgrimage to the Tiger's Nest Monastery. Rise early for Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage: the hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, perched high on a cliffside, as though suspended between earth and sky. After a rewarding climb, enjoy a leisurely lunch back in Paro town. In the late afternoon, transfer to Paro Airport for the 4:20 pm flight to Bangkok, connecting onward to your flight home or other destinations.
Alternately, if you're taking one of the earlier flights to destination cities other than Bangkok: after breakfast, transfer 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 to 28
Accommodations included: The Mountain Resort, The Swiss Guest House or comparable
Luxury (lodge) upgrades: The Amankora Bumthang (from $2,460 plus taxes nightly) or The Six Senses Bumthang (from $2,460 plus taxes nightly)
October 29
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 30
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.