top of page

HOCHLAND GRUPPE

Journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival & Beyond

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. 

Celebrate Laya's nomadic yak-herding culture in a natural amphitheater surrounded by sparkling Himalayan peaks

This journey begins with an optional trek along the western reaches of the Trans Bhutan Trail, where the dark-green folds of the mountains open to high alpine pastures veiled in morning mist. In the secluded Haa Valley, we visit remote hillside shrines and traditional stone homes, discovering a way of life untouched by time.


From there, we travel to the lush Punakha Valley, its fertile rice terraces nourished by the Pho and Mo rivers. Within the breathtaking Punakha Dzong—one of Bhutan’s finest architectural treasures—we take part in a special blessing before continuing north to Gasa and onward to the remote highland village of Laya. Here, among the high peaks and ridges that rise to the sky, the Royal Highland Festival bursts into color: yak herders in embroidered robes parade their animals, archers test their skill, and masked dances echo across alpine meadows glowing with autumn light.


The journey then arcs east into Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland. We wander through valleys dotted with whitewashed temples, explore the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace—hailed by Time magazine as one of the “World’s Greatest Places”—and stroll through Jakar’s quiet streets. Gentle hikes lead to ancient monasteries nestled in whispering forests, where Bhutanese tradition and a rare sense of serenity linger.


A final flight returns us to Paro for the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on its cliffside, closing this journey of cultural immersion, spiritual connection, and timeless Himalayan beauty.

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

This 16-day journey blends adventure, culture, and spirituality across Bhutan’s most breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Paro before trekking or driving into the secluded Haa Valley. Continue to Punakha’s lush rice terraces and magnificent Punakha Dzong, then north to Gasa and the remote highland village of Laya. Celebrate the vibrant Royal Highland Festival with yak parades, dances, and mountain traditions amid stunning alpine vistas. Then, we travel by road via Gangtey to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, to explore ancient temples, the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace, and serene forest hermitages. Return to Paro for the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a dramatic finale to this unforgettable Himalayan journey.

VIEW DAY BY DAY

OCTOBER 16: ARRIVAL IN PARO FROM BANGKOK

Touch down in Paro, the emerald gateway to Bhutan, on a spectacular flight threading Himalayan peaks. This first day offers gentle acclimatization with easy touring: stroll Paro town’s markets, admire the National Museum at Ta Dzong, and rest in preparation for the journey ahead. Overnight in Paro.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Paro 2,200 m / 7,218 ft | Ta Dzong ~2,250 m / 7,382 ft

  • Drive Time: Airport transfer 15–20 min

  • Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 1.5–3 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Mild autumn conditions. Light layers with a fleece or light jacket for evenings; comfortable walking shoes.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared arrival and Paro acclimatization).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations: Nemjo Heritage Lodge, Tiger's Nest Camp or the Olathang Lodge

OCTOBER 17–18: TREKKING OR DRIVING INTO HAA VALLEY

Set out on the Trans Bhutan Trail, following centuries-old footpaths once used by farmers and local nobility. The full-day trek climbs steeply from Paro through evergreen forests to the high ridge of Kaley La, from where deep  forests open onto vast views, before descending into the pristine Haa Valley. Guests preferring a gentler pace may drive and enjoy a guided village walk. We stay at the Soednam Zingkha Lodge, a traditional lodge housed in the old home of the former governor, the “Haabi Penlop.” In the evening, cross a small wooden bridge across a rushing stream to the opposite side of the lodge to soak in traditional style in wooden tubs. Fiery cups of local rice Ara, a hot alcoholic drink will be served to heighten the experience. Afterwards, enjoy Hoentey, a rich and heavy dumpling made from buckwheat and dried and preserved vegetables.


On the second day in Haa, we walk through timeless Haatoe Village and attend an ancient shamanic prayer to the valley's suspernatural guardian before completing the scenic Haa panorama loop that takes us to remote and beautiful temples and villages. We take a well-deserved soak in the lodge's hot stone baths in the evening. 


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Chele La Pass 3,988 m / 13,083 ft | Haa Valley 2,670 m / 8,760 ft | Lodge ~2,700 m / 8,858 ft

  • Drive Time (if driving): 2.5–3 hrs

  • Hiking Distances: 6–8 miles / 10–13 km (trek option) | 4–6 miles / 6–10 km (local hikes)

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool alpine conditions. Layering essential; hiking boots recommended.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared Haa Valley program).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals included: Lunch, Dinner 

Accommodations: The Soednam Zingkha Heritage Home or comparable





OCTOBER 19: HAA TO PUNAKHA VIA MENDEYGANG HERITAGE HOMESTAY

Drive eastward through landscapes that tumble from alpine passes to subtropical valleys. Arrive at the Mendeygang Heritage Homestay, a traditional farmhouse turned retreat (the ancestral home of a former Bhutanese Prime Minister) where warm Bhutanese hospitality reveals the rhythms of rural life. 


The Mendegang Heritage Home is a restored ancestral farmhouse overlooking the terraces of Thinleygang, just before the Punakha Valley. After the long drive, settle into the heritage home’s hospitality. Relax in the garden courtyard, or take a short stroll into the village, followed by dinner, which is served in the timbered hall—simple, hearty fare from the family’s own fields, shared with stories of the house’s long history.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Chele La 3,988 m / 13,083 ft | Dochu La 3,100 m / 10,170 ft | Mendeygang ~1,450 m / 4,757 ft

  • Drive Time: 5–6 hrs

  • Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Warm valley climate. Light clothing and sun protection recommended.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared transition to Punakha and Mendeygang stay).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Mendegang Heritage (Punakha)

OCTOBER 20: EXPLORE PUNAKHA VALLEY

In one of Bhutan’s most fertile and storied valleys, walk among rice paddies and riverside villages. Visit Punakha Dzong, a jewel of Himalayan architecture, glowing white against emerald fields at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Cross the country’s longest suspension bridge swaying above turquoise waters. We visit our old friend, the national award-winning artist, Asha Kama Wangdi, at his open village studio. If there's time, we take a hike to the lake above his village. Overnight in the exquisite Dhumra Farm Cottages, overlooking the valley.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 1,200–1,800 m / 3,937–5,905 ft range

  • Drive Time: 30–60 min

  • Hiking Distance: 2–5 miles / 3–8 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Warm and sunny. Lightweight clothing and hydration essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared Punakha exploration).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: The Dhumra Farm Cottages or the Zhingkham Lodge

OCTOBER 21: HEALING SPRINGS OF GASA

Climb north through deep forests to Gasa, famed for its natural hot springs. Soak in mineral-rich pools said to possess curative powers, and share an evening of storytelling with local families in their homes, surrounded by the looming silhouette of snow peaks.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Gasa ~2,800–3,000 m / 9,186–9,843 ft

  • Drive Time: 4–5 hrs

  • Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cooler mountain conditions; warm layers required.

  • Itinerary Note: Splits from Kultur Gruppe itinerary (this journey continues north to Gasa and Laya while Kultur Gruppe remains on central-western route).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Stay in a local farmhouse

OCTOBER 22: GASA TO LAYA

A rugged drive winds to the Taktsimakhang military outpost, the last motorable frontier. From here, climb steadily on the steep trails until we reach Laya, one of Bhutan’s most remote villages. 


Since there are no official guest houses or lodges here, we will have the unique opportunity to be hosted by local families in the village. Or, we may decide to set up our high altitude trekking camp at a designated campground near the village.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Laya 3,800 m / 12,467 ft

  • Drive Time: 2–3 hrs

  • Hiking Distance: 4–6 miles / 6–10 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cold high-altitude conditions; full layering and trekking gear required.

  • Itinerary Note: Continues separate route (Laya expedition segment; no overlap with Kultur Gruppe itinerary).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes



OCTOBER 23 & 24: ROYAL HIGHLAND FESTIVAL IN 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.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: Laya 3,800 m / 12,467 ft

  • Walking Distance: 1–3 miles / 2–5 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cold alpine environment; down layers, hat, gloves essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Continues separate route (festival experience unique to this itinerary).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps or stay in local homes

OCTOBER 25: DRIVE FROM LAYA TO PUNAKHA

This morning, hike 1-2 hours to the army camp at Taksimakha where we are picked up, and drive up through winding mountain roads to Gasa for one-and-half hours. After a quick stop in Gasa for lunch, drive another two to three hours to Punakha following the river and some of the wildest landscapes in Bhutan. 


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 3,800 m → 1,250 m / 12,467 ft → 4,101 ft

  • Hiking Distance: 1–2 hrs descent

  • Drive Time: 4–5 hrs

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Rapid climate transition; layer management important.

  • Itinerary Note: Separate from Kultur Gruppe itinerary. 

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: The Dhumra Farm Cottages or the Zhingkham Lodge

OCTOBER 26: DRIVE TO GANGTEY VALLEY

Leaving the fertile Punakha Valley, the road climbs steadily into the Black Mountain Range. The journey takes about 2.5–3 hours, following winding mountain roads that rise and fall through thick forests of magnolia, birch, rhododendron, and flame-trees. If you are lucky, you may glimpse the rare white langur monkeys that inhabit this lush zone, their pale coats flashing in the greenery.


As you cross high ridges and descend into broad glacial landscapes, the scenery shifts from terraced fields to sweeping alpine meadows. Entering Gangtey Valley, one of Bhutan’s most celebrated natural sanctuaries, the forest suddenly opens to reveal a wide bowl-shaped valley carved by glaciers.


Gangtey itself is best known as the winter roosting grounds of the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate here from the Tibetan Plateau. Upon arrival, we visit the Black-necked Crane Center to learn about conservation efforts, and take a gentle walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, which threads through wetlands, rustic villages, and open meadows.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft

  • Drive Time: 2.5–3 hrs

  • Hiking Distance: 2.5–3 miles / 4–5 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool highland climate; warm layers recommended.

  • Itinerary Note: Separate from Kultur Gruppe itinerary.

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: The Dewachen Lodge or the Gangtey Tent Resort


OCTOBER 27: DRIVE TO BUMTHANG

We drive today to Bumthang for 4 hours, passing the remote villages and hamlets of Central Bhutan, with a stop at our usual favorite Waterfall Cafe and some time at the well-known Chumey Yathra weaving center. We arrive in time of lunch or in the early afternoon to our charming lodge for a taste of Switzerland in the Himalayas, a symbol, and a result, of the long decades of friendship between the two countries, now spanning multiple generations!


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 2,600–3,000 m / 8,530–9,843 ft

  • Drive Time: ~4 hrs transfer + local

  • Hiking Distance: 2–7 miles / 3–11 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool and dry; layered clothing essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Rejoins with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared Bumthang exploration and cultural program).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Swiss Guest House


OCTOBER 28: WANGDUECHHOELING / PILGRIM'S WALK

Spend two days encountering Bhutan’s deepest spiritual and historical treasures as we delve into the roots of the Swiss connections in Bhutan. 


We take a detailed tour of the Time Magazine-featured   Wangduechhoeling Palace (March 2025 issue), the former royal residence built in 1857 by the Trongsa Penlop, Jigme Namgyel, father of Bhutan’s first king. It was the first palace in Bhutan not designed as a fortress and today is poised to become a world-class museum where rooms are preserved with royal artifacts, cultural treasures, photographs, personal belongings, and interactive multimedia that bring the early monarchy and Bhutanese folkways to life.


In the afternoon we set out on foot across the valley floor following the traditional Pilgrim’s Walk. The path links the major monasteries and temples that have shaped the valley’s identity for centuries. Jambay Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century; Kurjey Lhakhang, a complex of temples built around a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated; Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by the great Bhutanese saint Pema Lingpa.


The walk brings us to the Bathpalathang side of the valley for a visit to the Red Panda Brewery. We taste the locally brewed beer and enjoy Swiss-style cheese made in the valley. If his health and schedule permits we spend some time with the valley's respected elder citzen, Fritz Maurer, the Swiss pioneer who introduced cheese making to Bumthang and later founded the brewery. Over a glass of his craft beer and his famous signature charcuterie plate, we will listen to his stories of Swiss-Bhutanese friendship and the modern evolution of Bhutan. It is a relaxed and memorable way to close our time walking in the footsteps of Bhutan’s oldest royal friends and wellwishers, “Apa” Fritz and Monica von Schulthess. The Bhutanese word Apa, which means "Father," was used by the Third King of Bhutan to describe his endearing and affectionate relationship with Fritz von Schulthess‑Rechberg, dear friend and benefactor of Bhutan, along with his multi-generational family members who continue the work of friendship that still shapes wonderfully progressive initiatives in the kingdom. 


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 2,600–3,000 m / 8,530–9,843 ft

  • Drive Time: ~4 hrs transfer + local

  • Hiking Distance: 2–7 miles / 3–11 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool and dry; layered clothing essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared Bumthang exploration and cultural program).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Swiss Guest House




OCTOBER 29: TANG VALLEY AND OGYEN CHOLING

From Jakar Valley we trek (or drive) 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'. 


On the final evening in Bumthang, raise a glass at a farewell dinner with Fritz Maurer at the historic Swiss Guest House — an institution blending Swiss alpine flavors with Bhutanese warmth.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 2,600–3,000 m / 8,530–9,843 ft

  • Drive Time: ~4 hrs transfer + local

  • Hiking Distance: 2–7 miles / 3–11 km

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool and dry; layered clothing essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared Bumthang exploration and cultural program).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Swiss Guest House

OCTOBER 30: FLIGHT TO PARO

Return by air across Bhutan’s mountain spine, descending once more into the gentler climate of Paro.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft

  • Flight Time: 30–35 min

  • Drive Time: 15–20 min

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Mild and pleasant; light layers.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared return to Paro).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.


Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations: Zhiwa Ling Heritage, Paro (From $1,200/- per person in addition to trip price)

OCTOBER 31: TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY & DEPARTURE

Rise early for Bhutan’s most iconic pilgrimage: the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside high above the valley. The ascent unfolds through pine forests and prayer flag-lined ridges, culminating in one of the Himalaya’s most unforgettable viewpoints. 


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 Zurich or other destinations.


Field Notes:

  • Altitude: 2,600–3,120 m / 8,530–10,236 ft

  • Drive Time: 20 min each way

  • Hiking Distance: 4–6 miles / 6–10 km

  • Elevation Gain: ~520 m / 1,700 ft

  • October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool mountain conditions; sun protection and sturdy footwear essential.

  • Itinerary Note: Overlaps with Kultur Gruppe itinerary (shared final day and departure).

  • Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.

*****LIST OF OPTIONAL LUXURY LODGES AT ADDITIONAL COST*****

Luxury Lodges & Pricing 

(Please click on the names of each lodge to learn more about each property)


Pemako (Punakha)


Uma (Paro) 


Or 


Spirit Sanctuary Lodge


  • From US$800 per person per night doubles (full board, inclusive of 20% Bhutan Sales and Service Taxes)

  • From US$1,200 per person per night singles (full board, inclusive of 20% Bhutan Sales and Service Taxes)


Zhiwa Ling Heritage (Paro) 


  • From US$950 per person per night doubles (full board, inclusive of 20% Bhutan Sales and Service Taxes)

  • From US$1,800 per person per night singles (full board, inclusive of 20% Bhutan Sales and Service Taxes)