KULTUR GRUPPE
Marvels & mask dances
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.
Tracing the roots of Swiss-Bhutanese friendship across hidden valleys, sacred festivals, and a restored Himalayan palace
Arriving in Paro, we begin in Haa, where dark green mountains open to a peaceful river valley dotted by small farms and colorful Bhutanese homes. We travel next to Punakha, where terraced rice fields spread in gold patches along the Mo and Pho rivers. From here, the Hochland Gruppe heads into the mountains to Laya, while the Kultur Gruppe continues to the high plateau of Gangtey, where we first begin to see the impacts of many decades-long Swiss-Bhutanese friendship. Next, the road leads us east to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, where Swiss-Bhutanese friendship has left a defining mark. Explore forested valleys and ancient temples, and attend a religious mask dance festival that brings Bhutan's sacred stories to life through ritual, music, and movement. The Hochland Gruppe rejoins us for a grand tour of the world-class Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum before we fly back together to Paro for the iconic pilgrimage to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, an unforgettable finale to a tale of culture, friendship, and 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 weaves together Bhutan’s most compelling landscapes, traditions, and spiritual experiences, seen through the lens of Swiss-Bhutanese friendship. From remote valleys to vibrant festivals, from sacred monasteries to intimate village encounters, we learn how personal friendships can shape the life of a nation.*Luxury lodge options are at the end of the itinerary*
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. Set within a broad valley ringed by forested ridgelines, Paro offers a gentle and grounding introduction to the Himalaya.
This first day unfolds at an easy pace: stroll through Paro town and its markets, visit the National Museum at Ta Dzong, and settle into Bhutan’s calm rhythm as you prepare for the journey ahead.
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, crisp autumn air. Light layers recommended—breathable base layer, light fleece, and a windproof shell for mornings/evenings. Comfortable walking shoes.
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: DRIVE INTO HAA VALLEY
After breakfast, set out on the scenic high road to Haa. The journey climbs through evergreen forests to a windswept mountain pass before revealing sweeping Himalayan views. From here, descend into the secluded Haa Valley, where life continues much as it has for generations.
On arrival, enjoy a gentle village walk through fields and traditional homes, settling into a heritage lodge rich with local history. Evenings bring hot stone baths beside a rushing stream and warming cups of ara.
The following day unfolds on foot through Haatoe Village and across a panoramic ridgeline, linking temples, farms, and forest paths in one of Bhutan’s most untouched valleys.
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: 2.5–3 hrs total
Hiking Distances: 2–3 miles (3–5 km) + 4–6 miles (6–10 km)
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cooler alpine conditions. Layering essential—thermal base layer, fleece or light down jacket, hat and gloves for early mornings. Sturdy hiking shoes recommended.
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 | MENDEYGANG HERITAGE/DHUMRA FARM
Drive eastward through landscapes that tumble from alpine passes to subtropical valleys. The journey traces Bhutan’s dramatic ecological gradient, crossing high ridgelines before descending into warmer air and terraced farmland.
Arrive at Mendeygang Heritage Homestay, where a restored ancestral farmhouse overlooks fields and quiet village life. Spend the afternoon unwinding in the courtyard or walking through the surrounding community before a deeply local, home-cooked dinner.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Chele La 3,988 m / 13,083 ft | Thimphu ~2,350 m / 7,710 ft | Dochu La 3,100 m / 10,170 ft | Mendeygang ~1,450 m / 4,757 ft
Drive Time: 5–6 hrs total
Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Noticeably warmer. Light clothing for daytime, with a light jacket for evening. Sun protection recommended.
Please note lodges and experiences may change due to seasonal occupancy during our time of travel.
Meals: all meals included
Lodge: Mendegang Heritage (Punakha)/Dhumra Farm
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, glowing white against emerald fields at the confluence of two rivers, and cross the country’s longest suspension bridge swaying above turquoise water.
Continue to a village studio to meet a master artist, and if time allows, hike to a quiet lake above the valley before returning to your lodge overlooking the fields.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Punakha Dzong 1,250 m / 4,101 ft | Valley floor ~1,200–1,350 m / 3,937–4,430 ft | Lake hike ~1,600–1,800 m / 5,249–5,905 ft
Drive Time: 30–60 min total
Hiking Distances: 2–4 miles (3–6 km) + optional 3–5 miles (5–8 km)
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Warm and sunny valley climate. Lightweight clothing, sun hat, and hydration essential. Light layer for evenings.
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: VISIT PUNAKHA'S TEMPLES & MONASTERIES
Begin with a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, set amid fields and farmhouses. Continue through villages alive with traditional craft before climbing to a hilltop nunnery overlooking the valley.
The day unfolds through a series of intimate encounters—shared meals, farmhouse visits, and glimpses into Bhutanese daily life—before ending with a memorable dinner at a beloved local homestay.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Chimi Lhakhang 1,300 m / 4,265 ft | Nunnery 1,500 m / 4,921 ft | Villages ~1,250–1,350 m / 4,100–4,430 ft
Drive Time: 1.5–2 hrs total
Hiking Distance: 2–3 miles / 3–5 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Warm days with cooler evenings. Breathable clothing, sun protection, and light outer layer recommended.
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 22: DRIVE TO GANGTEY VALLEY
Leaving Punakha, the road climbs steadily into the Black Mountains through dense forests alive with birdlife and shifting light. As the road crests high ridges and opens into a wide glacial valley, Gangtey reveals itself—quiet, expansive, and deeply atmospheric.
Visit the crane conservation center and walk the valley’s nature trail through wetlands and open meadows.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Lawala Pass 3,300 m / 10,827 ft | Gangtey 3,000 m / 9,843 ft | Lodges ~2,950–3,050 m / 9,678–10,007 ft
Drive Time: 2.5–3 hrs
Hiking Distance: 2.5–3 miles / 4–5 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool highland climate. Layered warmth required—fleece or light down jacket, warm hat for mornings/evenings.
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 23: A DAY IN GANGTEY; SWISS CHEESE & VILLAGE LIFE
Wake to crisp mountain air and wide-open valley views before driving into the surrounding hills toward Gogona. Here, a unique Bhutanese-Swiss dairy tradition continues in a small cooperative where milk is transformed into alpine-style cheeses.
After time spent observing, tasting, and connecting with local life, return to Gangtey for a quiet afternoon.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Gangtey 3,000 m / 9,843 ft | Gogona 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Drive Time: 1.5–2 hrs roundtrip
Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Crisp alpine air. Warm layers, especially for shaded or windy conditions.
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 24: DRIVE FROM GANGTEY TO BUMTHANG
Leaving the quiet meadows of Gangtey, the road winds through forests and across high passes before descending to historic Trongsa, then rising again into the valleys of Bumthang.
Along the way, pause at a striking chorten and a traditional weaving center before continuing into Jakar, where broad valleys, monasteries, and orchards define the landscape.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Pele La 3,420 m / 11,220 ft | Trongsa 2,200 m / 7,218 ft | Yotong La 3,425 m / 11,237 ft | Bumthang 2,600–2,700 m / 8,530–8,860 ft
Drive Time: 6–7 hrs
Walking Distance: 0.5–1 mile / 1–2 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Variable mountain conditions. Layering critical—cool at passes, mild in valleys. Include windproof outer layer.
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 25 & 26: BUMTHANG HERITAGE EXPERIENCES & JAMBAY LHAKHANG FESTIVAL
Spend these days immersed in Bumthang’s spiritual heartland, walking between ancient temples and attending one of Bhutan’s most vibrant festivals. Masked dances unfold in temple courtyards, accompanied by drums, horns, and the energy of gathered communities.
Between festival moments, explore monasteries, meet local artisans, and experience the rhythms of life in this deeply sacred valley.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Bumthang Valley ~2,600–2,700 m / 8,530–8,860 ft | Temples ~2,650–2,700 m / 8,694–8,858 ft
Drive Time: 30–60 min local
Hiking Distance: 2–4 miles / 3–6 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool, dry autumn conditions. Layered clothing, warm jacket for evenings, and comfortable walking shoes.
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 27: REUNION WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY JOINING FROM LAYA
A relaxed day in Jakar unfolds with visits to local monasteries and time to reconnect with fellow travelers returning from the highlands, culminating in an evening of celebration.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Jakar ~2,600–2,700 m / 8,530–8,860 ft
Drive Time: 30–60 min
Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Similar to prior days—cool mornings and evenings, mild afternoons. Layered clothing recommended.
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 & 29: EXPLORING BUMTHANG
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.
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'.
Return to Jakar town 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 meet 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.
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: Tang Valley 2,800–3,000 m / 9,186–9,843 ft | Ogyen Choling ~2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Drive Time: 1.5–2 hrs roundtrip
Hiking Distance: 4–7 miles / 6–11 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cooler at higher elevations. Warm layers, especially for early starts and shaded trails.
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: Bumthang ~2,650 m / 8,700 ft → Paro 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
Flight Time: 30–35 min
Drive Time: 15–20 min transfers
Walking Distance: 1–2 miles / 2–3 km
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Mild and pleasant. Light layers with a light jacket for evening.
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: Trailhead 2,600 m / 8,530 ft | Monastery 3,120 m / 10,236 ft
Drive Time: 20 min each way
Hiking Distance: 4–6 miles / 6–10 km
Elevation Gain: ~520 m / 1,700 ft
Hiking Time: 4–6 hrs
October 2026 Climate & Packing Guide: Cool mountain conditions with sun exposure. Layered clothing, sun protection, and sturdy footwear essential.
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)
Or
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)
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)
ACCOMMODATIONS
PEACE OF MIND
PRACTICAL DETAILS
DATES & PRICES
October 16 ~ October 31, 2026
US$11,950/- per person for all Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Land Costs for 16 days, including local traditional lodges listed on the itinerary
***If you wish to stay at luxury lodges the additional costs per person will range from $800 per person to $1,800 per person per night for a total of 5 nights. This is in addition to the Trip Price shown above***
_____________
OTHER ADDITIONAL COSTS:
GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & VISA
$1,540 per person
5% GOVERNMENT GST FOR TRIPS BOOKED AFTER JANUARY 2025
$590 per person
BANGKOK TO BHUTAN ROUNDTRIP FLIGHT* Business Class $1,400 per person
DOMESTIC FLIGHT BUMTHANG TO PARO* ONE-WAY 250 per person
$1,200 per person in addition to trip price for last night at Zhiwa Ling Heritage Paro (Luxury Lodge)
_____________________
*BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS WILL BOOK & MAKE THESE 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. We will 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. Regional flights from Bangkok start from $980 per person & from $175 per person for internal domestic flights where a short-duration flight is included on your itinerary. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.
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
US$11,950/- per person for all Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Land Costs for 16 days, including local traditional lodges listed on the itinerary
***If you wish to stay at luxury lodges the additional costs per person will range from $800 per person to $1,800 per person per night for a total of 5 nights. This is in addition to the Trip Price shown above***
_____________
OTHER ADDITIONAL COSTS:
GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & VISA
$1,540 per person
5% GOVERNMENT GST FOR TRIPS BOOKED AFTER JANUARY 2025
$590 per person
BANGKOK TO BHUTAN ROUNDTRIP FLIGHT* Business Class $1,400 per person
DOMESTIC FLIGHT BUMTHANG TO PARO* ONE-WAY 250 per person
$1,200 per person in addition to trip price for last night at Zhiwa Ling Heritage Paro (Luxury Lodge)
_____________________
*BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS WILL BOOK & MAKE THESE 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. We will 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. Regional flights from Bangkok start from $980 per person & from $175 per person for internal domestic flights where a short-duration flight is included on your itinerary. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.
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
2026 Dates & Prices
2026 Dates & Prices
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Luxury Lodges are NOT included and priced separately per lodge and per duration of stay
Government Daily SDF Taxes & Fees
Flight and airfare costs to and from Bhutan (UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ON YOUR TRIP INFORMATION), 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
Single Traveler Supplements
All ground transportation, visas for Bhutan and airport transfers
All Local Lodges and Accommodations, that are not in the Luxury Category, shown on itinerary, unless otherwise stated
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
TRIP PHOTOGALLERY
| RECOMMENDED POSTS
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 & our Expedition Camps included; Luxury Lodges at additional cost per night
GROUP SIZE
Private
DURATION
16 days
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy to Moderate
Or call 1-855-4-BHUTAN (248826)
TRIP TYPE
Hiking, Culture & Festival
ASK A QUESTION
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Travel Logistics Organizer for CBS 60 Minutes 2024 special report on Bhutan
“First, thank you for making my trip to Bhutan run smoothly. Second, for explaining your culture and customs to me and our team in a way that helped our 60 MINS story come alive. Third, for making the visit seriously fun!”
~ Lesley Stahl, Correspondent, CBS 60 Minutes, September 2024
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