WESTERN & CENTRAL 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.
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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 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 and the spiritual calm of Bumthang, 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.
Visit Foundation-supported initiatives such as the Samcholing Tea Project, the Khedrup Monastery Restoration, 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: The Thimphu Druk Hotel
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: The Thimphu Druk Hotel
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: The Thimphu Druk Hotel
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: Uma Punakha, Amankora Punakha, Pemako, or &Beyond Punakha River Lodge
OCTOBER 22, THURSDAY: DRIVE TO LAYA (3 HOURS) & SHORT HIKE (2-3 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: Uma Punakha, Amankora Punakha, Pemako, or &Beyond Punakha River Lodge
OCTOBER 26, MONDAY: DRIVE TO BUMTHANG VIA SAMCHOLING & KHEDRUP FOUNDATION
Journey eastward through mountain passes and scenic countryside toward Bumthang, Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual center. En route, visit the Samcholing Tea Project and Khedrup Monastery Restoration, two initiatives supported by the Foundation that highlight 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: The Bumthang Mountain Resort or comparable
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: The Bumthang Mountain Resort or comparable
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: The Bumthang Mountain Resort or comparable
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
Lodge: COMO Uma Paro
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.
