Trek to Treasure Lake, Trongsa Festival & Tiger’s Nest-3
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.
Trek to Bhutan's pristine Snow Leopard territory, witness the grand Trongsa festival, and explore the kingdom's central highlands
Arrive in Paro and drive to bustling Thimphu for speaking engagements at the Royal University of Bhutan. Meet interesting thought leaders and policy makers in the capital, and take in cultural highlights such as the National Textile Museum, the giant Buddha Dordenma, and encounters with local artisans. Next, take a flight from Paro to the sacred valleys of Bumthang, where we seek an opportunity for a private meditation and blessing at a renowned monastery. After hiking and exploring the region, we drive to Trongsa to enjoy the year's biggest regional event, the Grand Trongsa Tshechu Festival. Next, it's on to Gangtey to see rare Black-necked Cranes and hike the scenic nature trail, followed by a return to Paro for a climb to iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The 12-day trip ends, and after seeing the boys off at the airport, we continue the 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. Finally, return to Paro for the departing flight to Bangkok for this culturally enriching end to one year and the beginning of another one.
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 to Paro, drive to Thimphu to speak at the royal university and connect with local officials. Return to Paro and take the flight to central Bumthang for some art, culture, hiking, and interesting insights into Himalayan spirituality. We visit the Bhutan Foundation-supported Wangduechhoeling Palace and Museum, recently on Time Magazine’s list of ‘World’s Greatest Places’. From the central highlands, drive to Trongsa to experience the grand Padmasambhava dances at the year-end Tshechu Festival before continuing on to Gangtey Valley to see beautiful Black-necked Cranes take wing. Return to Paro and hike to magnificent Tiger's Nest monastery before transferring to Haa. Finally, trek into the high altitude Jigme Khesar Namgyel Strict Nature Reserve before a final night of rest (and a traditional soak) before your return flight to Bangkok.
VIEW DAY BY DAY
DECEMBER 22: 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 KB123 departs at 10:05AM from Bangkok and lands in Paro at 02:05PM.
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 23: 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 government and public life.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
DECEMBER 24: COURTESY CALLS AND CONNECTIONS
This morning, we meet the former and current health ministers to discuss global health economics and meet other Bhutanese dignitaries (as per their schedule and availability). Then, we take in the remaining highlights of the city, stopping by a new river walk, built by the king's project; a Tibetan market accessed by an ancient wooden cantilever bridge; and our secret spot for the tastiest Momos on the planet! This evening, a relaxed, low-key Himalayan Christmas Eve experience!
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
DECEMBER 25: DRIVE TO PARO/DOMESTIC FLIGHT TO BUMTHANG
This morning, we take the one-hour drive to Paro to catch the flight to Bumthang. On arrival in Bumthang, check in at our family lodge across the street from Wangduechhoeling Palace and Museum. In the afternoon, begin a valley floor exploration on foot, stopping by cheerfully painted shops and enjoying the crisp mountain air, before a pit stop to taste some local produce, including the valley's famous Swiss cheese, schnapps and Red Panda beer . Tonight, enjoy a cozy dinner in the traditionally heated restaurant and lounge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Bumthang Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 26: BUMTHANG VALLEY EXPLORATION
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 another evening toast at the brewery. Today, we also meet a celebrated local textile weaver to admire her collection of handwoven textiles representing the styles and designs from the various regions of Bhutan.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Bumthang Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 27: TANG VALLEY EXPLORATION
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 its admire its ancient murals and the beautiful shrine to Tara, the Goddess of Compassion. A lovely meeting with the royal descendant who oversees the museum provides further depth as we explore this blissful hidden corner of Bhutan's beautiful central highlands. This is also good training for your upcoming trek!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Bumthang Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 28: CHAMKHAR VALLEY EXPLORATION
Today, explore the valleys upriver along the tumbling Chamkhar Chhu, stopping at places like Thangbi where we visit ancient temples such as the one founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche, a revered religious figure. The Thangbi Goemba is a significant monastery in the upper reaches of Bumthang Valley. Its main chapel houses statues of the past, present, and future Buddhas, and the temple grounds come alive in October during an annual fire festival.
In the afternoon, return to Jakar Valley center for a meditation appointment with a senior Lama from an important local monastery, and a private Buddhist blessing for the family.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Bumthang Mountain Resort
DECEMBER 29: DRIVE TO TRONGSA/AFTERNOON FESTIVAL PERFORMANCES
This morning, after breakfast, we drive over 11,000-foot Yotong La pass to Trongsa, arriving in time to attend the exciting afternoon mask dance performances at the Grand Trongsa Tshechu Festival.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Trongsa Yangkhil Lodge or comparable
DECEMBER 30: SECOND DAY OF TSHECHU FESTIVAL
We enjoy a full day at the Grand Trongsa Tshechu festival, taking in the major performances of the day and taking a break to explore the Museum of Royal Antiquities in the afternoon, before catching the closing dances before our return to the lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Trongsa Yangkhil Lodge or comparable
DECEMBER 31: MORNING THONGDROEL CEREMONY / DRIVE TO GANGTEY
This morning we rise early to catch the festival's closing, a final unfurling of the sacred Thongdroel scroll, a word that means "the sight of that which liberates." This giant applique scroll, which is several floors high, is brought out once a year to bless festival-goers. After that we continue the drive over the 10,000-foot high Pele La pass to Gangtey, 'Valley of the Cranes,' descending gently from the Lawa La pass into a sweeping bowl of emerald yak meadows 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 cozy Bhutanese glamping lodge with incredible views of the cranes' flyway through the valley.
Enjoy a cozy evening celebration tonight at the lodge to usher in the new year in a Buddhist land, a merging of cultures.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Dewachen Lodge / Gangtey Tent Resorts or comparable
JANUARY 01, 2026: DRIVE TO PARO
Setting out from Gangtey, descend from the Lawa La pass into the Black Mountains Range, known locally as Durshingla, a series of dense mountains and valleys shrouded in mist and legend. Past the old town of Wangdue, we cross into the Punakha Valley where we stop for lunch at a traditional Bhutanese restaurant overlooking the famous 'red' rice fields of Lobeysa and the famous "Temple of the Divine Madman," worth an interesting stop.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Olathang Hotel or comparable
JANUARY 02: HIKE TO TIGER'S NEST/DRIVE TO HAA
This morning we rise early to hike up to famous Tiger’s nest monastery as a family. Afterwards, we have a final lunch together at local spot Mountain Cafe, or at our old friend's excellent restaurant over cups of fresh brewed Bhutanese home-grown coffee. We bring the boys to the airport in time for their early evening flight to Bangkok, and continue our drive to Haa for the Trek. The scenic 2.5-hour drive to Haa Valley goes over the Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest motorable road at 3,988 meters (13,083 feet). 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
JANUARY 03: TREK TO WOMJI CAMP
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
JANUARY 04: 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. During relaxed evenings at camp, guests have often noticed twinkling lights on the far and distant mountains marking the borders of Bhutan, China (formerly Tibet) and India, the sky (in clear weather) a vast expanse of awe-inspiring stars.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
JANUARY 05: 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
JANUARY 06: 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
JANUARY 07: RETURN HIKE TO HAA
After a trailside picnic lunch, we end our loop in Haa, from where we continue our drive to the lodge for a welcome and final celebratory soak in the medicinal 'hot-stone' baths fed by the beautiful glacial stream that runs past the lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge
JANUARY 08: MORNING DRIVE TO PARO, AFTERNOON CONNECTION TO BANGKOK
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the lodge and take a village hike to the trail head to stretch your legs and get some excercise before the flight. Drive to Paro over Chele La Pass, arriving in time at the airport for your international return flight to Bangkok.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch