Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest
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.
Arrive in Paro and drive to bustling Thimphu for speaking engagements at the Royal University of Bhutan. Celebrate the pomp and ceremony of Bhutan's National Day and take in capital city highlights such as the National Textile Museum and the giant Buddha Dordenma monument. Next, drive to pristine Haa Valley and trek into the high alpine reaches of a sacred lake where rare Blue Sheep and elusive Snow Leopards roam. Then, climb to iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and visit Gangtey to see rare Black-necked Cranes. From there, drive to the royal heartland, Trongsa, to see one of the year's biggest religious mask dance festivals. Finally, explore the lovely central highlands of Bumthang before returning to Paro by domestic flight. This is a unique and culturally enriching way to celebrate the holiday season and ring in a brand new year, ensuring a lifetime of special memories!
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Trek into a lightly-traveled Snow Leopard preserve, witness the grand Trongsa festival and explore the pristine central highlands
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
After flying into Paro, drive to Thimphu to celebrate Bhutan's 118th National Day since its founding. Next, drive to Haa Valley and trek into the high altitude Jigme Khesar Namgyel Strict Nature Reserve. After the trek, return to Paro and hike to magnificent Tiger's Nest monastery. Then, make our way east to Gangtey Valley to see beautiful Black-necked Cranes taking wing. Continue driving to Trongsa to experience the grand Padmasambhava dances at the Trongsa Tshechu Festival before continuing on to Bumthang, where we visit the Bhutan Foundation-supported Wangduechhoeling Palace and Museum, recently on Time Magazine’s list of ‘World’s Greatest Places’. A final 25-minute domestic flight brings us back to Paro in time to celebrate New Year's Day, followed by a relaxed morning before your return flight home.
VIEW DAY BY DAY
DECEMBER 15: ARRIVAL IN PARO – TRANSFER TO THIMPHU
Take the flight from Bangkok this morning with the world's highest peaks rising above the clouds, including Mt. Everest. Your flight KB153 departs at 6:00AM from Bangkok and lands in Paro at 08:15AM.
After meeting your Bhutanese guide-who will travel with you for the duration of your stay-at the airport, we drive 1.5 hours to the Capital Hotel, located in the commercial heart of the nation's bustling capital, Thimphu, within walking distance of museums and shops.
This afternoon, stretch your hiking muscles with a visit to the Takin zoo. Takin is Bhutan's curious national animal that local legends describe as a cross between a goat and a cow. Later, if you're still energetic, we'll continue the walk to a spectacular spot overlooking the capital city, the site of ancient Wangditse Monastery.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
DECEMBER 16: THIMPHU CITY HIGHLIGHTS
Today we begin with a two-hour hike to the giant Buddha Dordenma through pine forests. Return to the city for lunch followed by visits to the Royal Textile Museum and the school of the 13 crafts. Stop by the Bhutan Foundation offices and continue to the Royal University for speaking engagements at the university on American government and politics and Global Health Economics. This evening, a traditional feast with some invited Bhutanese guests and dignitaries from the government and public life.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
DECEMBER 17: 118th NATIONAL DAY FESTIVITIES / THIMPHU TO HAA
This morning, join the nation at Bhutan’s widely televised National Day Celebrations at the national stadium, meet the former and current health ministers to discuss global health economics and other Bhutanese dignitaries. Then, take a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Haa Valley via Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable road at 3,988 meters. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari and the surrounding Himalayan peaks if weather permits. Descend into Haa Valley through picturesque pine forests and traditional villages. On arrival, settle into the beautifully restored Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge, a 150-year-old former governor's home in Haatey village.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge
DECEMBER 18: HAA PANORAMIC HIKE / EXPLORATION DAY
This morning, after a traditional breakfast at the lodge, we walk the narrow, rock-laid dirt paths of ancient Haatey Village and, crossing a metal suspension bridge, catch the trail that loops around the valley, offering panoramic views of Bhutan’s westernmost district center. The Haa Panoramic Hike weaves through pine forests and exposed ridges with colorful clusters of Buddhist prayer flags left by devout local families.
The Panoramic Trail also passes the serene Jungney Dra temple, perched dramatically on a cliffside, and we take a short detour to visit the holy site accessed by a steep set of stairs and two large boulders that visitors have to squeeze through as an act of purification.
We arrive back at the lodge in time for evening aperitifs and, if so inclined, the strong, "hair-on-your-chest" local brew Ara, before a relaxing soak in the lodge's traditional hot-stone baths, complemented by refreshing dips in the nearby glacial stream, a well-favored form of healing and relaxation in Bhutan.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Haa Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge
DECEMBER 19: TREK TO TREASURE LAKE
Take the less-traveled route to experience the purer aspects of trekking in Bhutan by cutting out the busier trails. We like to think of it as our little secret! Climbing sharply through oak and deciduous forests with vibrant foliage best appreciated in late fall, the route takes us along a high Himalayan ridge-line before descending to the peaceful lake where its mirror surface reflects an ever-changing sky. We camp deep in the Womji valley today.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
DECEMBER 20: CAMP AT TREASURE LAKE
Today, we make the steep uphill climb through dense forests of pine to summit Tshejey Pass at 13,900 feet before a panoramic descent to Treasure Lake. We descend to camp ringed by a wide amphiteather of distant snowpeaks. The greater Himalayan peaks visible today include the third highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga. We frequently see wild herds of exotic Blue Sheep that often come to graze very close to camp, a thrilling experience! Several groups of Bhutan's rare and elusive Snow Leopards have been caught on camera in the surrounding high ridges around camp and, in the evenings, our campers have often watched the twinkling lights from the parts of the surrounding mountais which form the natural boundaries of Bhutan. Tibet (China) and India.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
DECEMBER 21: TREASURE LAKE EXPLORATION DAY
We typically rest or explore today around our base camp above the lake. Keep an eye out for large herds of Blue Sheep on the ridges near camp. Snow Leopards have also been caught in camera traps in the area!
Alternately, we may also continue the trek to cover some of the remaining distance of the trek today to break up the trekking distance. We will make those decisions on site for the best trekking experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
DECEMBER 22: TREK TO CAMP TSHABJO
After a spectacular day of hiking that offers, weather cooperating, excellent views of Mount Jomolhari, we camp beside a clear running stream for our final night on the trail. This is an evening when we discover some of the hidden talents of our Bhutanese staff and crew who all love a good camp song.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
DECEMBER 23: RETURN HIKE TO HAA / DRIVE TO PARO
After a trailside picnic lunch, we end our loop in Haa, from where we continue our drive to Paro after a substantial, well-deserved lunch.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Olathang Hotel or comparable
DECEMBER 24: TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY HIKE / DRIVE TO PUNAKHA
This morning we rise early to hike up to famous Tiger's Nest monastery. The hike up to Taktsang is a highlight of any trip to Bhutan, with the monastery perched dramatically on a sheer cliff face, high above the valley. Afterwards, we have a final lunch at the local spot Mountain Cafe, over cups of freshly brewed Bhutanese home-grown coffee, before driving to Punakha. We climb to the Dochula pass where the snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas stretch across the horizon. Rows of white chortens, 108 stupas built by the eldest Queen Mother, stand gleaming against the sky in the crisp mountain air. We descend to Punakha Valley and stop by the beautiful dzong, accessed by a wooden cantilever bridge, spanning Mo-chhu River. We take an evening walk on Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, part of the Trans Bhutan Trail.
We have a cozy get together tonight at the lodge to celebrate Christmas Eve in a Buddhist land, a merging of cultures.
Evening at leisure at your Punakha hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Zhingkham Resort or comparable
DECEMBER 25: DRIVE TO GANGTEY
Setting out from Punakha, the Black Mountains, known locally as Durshingla, rise ahead, shrouded in mist and legend. Past the old town of Wangdue, we cross into the Black Mountain region. Waterfalls tumble down sheer cliffs, rivers snake through deep gorges, and small villages cling to the hillsides, their prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Descending gently from the Lawa La pass into the Gangtey Valley is a sweeping bowl of emerald fields and marshlands. The remote valley, cradled by the Black Mountains, is a sanctuary for the rare Black-necked Cranes that migrate here each winter from the Tibetan plateau. Their haunting calls echo across the valley, adding mystery to the scenic landscape.
We enter the ancient Gangtey Goemba monastery perched on a hilltop. Next, we stretch our legs on an optional hike around the valley, watching the elegant cranes flying overhead or roosting in the valley below before checking into our cosy Bhutanese glamping lodge with incredible views of the cranes' flyway through the valley.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Dewachen Lodge/Gangtey Tent Resorts or comparable
DECEMBER 26: GANGTEY VALLEY HIKING & DRIVE TO TRONGSA
This morning, hike the peaceful nature trail to see Black-necked Cranes in the wild, visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre before continuing our drive to Trongsa. Leaving peaceful Gangtey, the drive to Trongsa climbs through forests thick with rhododendrons and towering pines, the temperatures dropping with the higher altitude. We pass the beautiful Chendebji stupa, a replica of Nepal's great stupa at Boudha before arriving in Trongsa to stay opposite the impressive Trongsa Dzong, perched high above the river and commanding the landscape with its centuries-old presence.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Trongsa Yangkhil Lodge or comparable
DECEMBER 27: TRONGSA FESTIVAL
This morning, we visit the magnificent dzong interiors and catch the opening performances of the Trongsa Tshechu, an ancient Buddhist festival at the spiritual heart of the kingdom. Learn more about the festival and the dzong here.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Trongsa Yangkhil Lodge or comparable
DECEMBER 28: TRONGSA FESTIVAL, AFTERNOON DRIVE TO BUMTHANG
After spending another half-day enjoying the spectacular Trongsa Tshechu mask dances, we drive east from Trongsa to Bumthang via Yotong La Pass (3-hour drive). The road climbs up through the mountains with sweeping views of deep valleys and distant peaks. The final stretch brings us into the heart of Bumthang, where the valleys are wide and dotted with traditional villages, fluttering prayer flags, and the occasional yaks grazing on the hillsides. We stop in the weaving village of Chumey to admire the local wool tapestries called Yathra, before continuing on to our family lodge opposite the historic Wangduechhoeling Palace, now renovated as a world-class museum.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 29: BUMTHANG VALLEY EXPLORATION WITH WANGDUECHHOELING PALACE
Start your day with a tour of the Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum, recently on Time Magazine's list of 'World's Greatest Places' to visit (March 2025). Visit Kurje Lhakhang, a sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated during his journey through Bhutan. Visit the Tamshing monastery, the Konchogsum Temple to complete the traditional pilgrim's route around the valley before an evening toast at the Red Panda Brewery to the accompaniment of local Swiss cheese and crackers.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 30: PILGRIMS WALK AROUND JAKAR VALLEY
Join local pilgrims on a scenic walk around Jakar Valley, visiting sacred sites and monasteries. Experience the spiritual side of Bumthang with a lovely riverside picnic lunch.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 31: DAY TREK TO TANG VALLEY / OGYEN CHOLING MANOR / NEW YEAR'S EVE
Trek over a pass from Jakar to Tang or take a scenic drive to Tang Valley, known for its medieval atmosphere and farming villages. Enjoy lunch at the beautiful Ogyen Choling Manor and Museum and admire its ancient murals and the beautiful shrine to the goddess of compassion. Track down former projects and revisit their progress as we explore this blissful hidden corner of Bhutan's beautiful central highlands. This evening we have a wonderfully intimate New Year's Celebration in the quiet heart of Bhutan!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort
JANUARY 1, 2026: MORNING DOMESTIC FLIGHT TO PARO, AFTERNOON CONNECTION TO BANGKOK
Take an early domestic flight to Paro past dramatic Himalayan snow peaks. Drukair flight KB 010 departs at 11:10 AM and arrives in Paro at 11:45 AM. Browse the colorful shops of Paro and wander the bustling main street, which served for centuries as a main stop for traders and pilgrims on the ancient route to Tibet. Following lunch, we transfer to Olathang Lodge for your check-in at the front desk, and friendly rounds of archery with your trip staff afterwards. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your international flight to Bangkok.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATIONS
PEACE OF MIND
PRACTICAL DETAILS
DATES & PRICES
December 15, 2025 - January 1, 2026
US$10,521/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
US$10,321/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
US$10,121/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
***
***
***
DATE
2 PEOPLE*
4 PEOPLE*
6 PEOPLE*
*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$10,521/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
US$10,321/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
US$10,121/- per person*
(COVERS ALL BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS LAND COSTS FOR 22 DAYS, INCLUDING MEALS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TRANSPORTATION, ALL TREKKING & EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES & COMMISSARIES, EXPERIENCED SENIOR GUIDES, AND ENTRANCE AND MONUMENT FEES)
***
***PLEASE ADD $2,100 GOVERNMENT SDF TAXES & FEES & AIRFARES AS SHOWN BELOW***
***Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles the following flight bookings as a courtesy service for our guests.
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $275/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang or Bumthang to Paro.
**** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
***
***
***
DATE
2 PEOPLE*
4 PEOPLE*
6 PEOPLE*
*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
2025 Dates & Prices
2025 Dates & Prices
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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 trekking activities on this trip are rated as strenuous. Please See the "About Trekking Expeditions" tab below for further details and notes on trip participation fitness.
The cultural portions of this trip are rate 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 TREKKING EXPEDITIONS
The trekking activities on this trip are rated as strenuous and challenging. Trip members should be in good health and confident hiking mixed and steep terrain at increasingly higher altitudes that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions, potential rain, snow, icy conditions and, or steps and stairs.
Physical activities include city walking tours, steep hiking to monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and strenuous hiking/trekking during the trek. 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. This will help acclimate us for our trek which, following the cultural journey, will take us to much higher elevations, exceeding elevations of 4,937 m/16,200 feet or more.
Our trekking expeditions are bespoke itineraries designed for active travelers that combine guided excursions, cultural insights, art and customs, with camping, sleeping bags, trekking tents and and three meals plus daily hot beverages and refreshements included. Personal sleeping bag liners, trekking poles, adequate thermal layers, warm clothing, and other personal gear reccommended.
Our journeys are small group adventures of usually 8 to 12 travelers, with a maximum of 16 guests per group. Unlike most tour providers we seek to maintain the idustry's lowest ratio of guests per Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions staff. This ensures that our journeys feel more like a shared adventures 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
“...a challenging and rewarding experience. Many thanks to Karma and his team of guides, horsemen, and camp chefs, and to my wonderful trekking companions for making it a trip of a lifetime.”
~ Mark Pearson, Boise, ID
ACCOMMODATIONS
High-end traditional lodges & our Expedition Camps included; International Luxury Chains at additional cost per night
GROUP SIZE
Small Group Adventure
DURATION
18 days
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Challenging to Moderate
Or call 1-855-4-BHUTAN (248826)
TRIP TYPE
Trekking, Conservation & Culture
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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