Capital: Thimphu Official Language: Dzongkha Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), Indian Rupee also widely accepted Time Zone: UTC +6

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond entry. All visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa. Visas are processed through licensed Bhutanese tour operators and issued upon arrival with prior approval. A Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per night applies for international visitors.

Health & Immunizations

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations (MMR, Tdap, Polio). Rabies vaccine advised for rural travel or long stays. Malaria risk is low, but precautions may be needed in southern regions. Travel insurance is strongly recommended due to limited advanced medical facilities.

Layered clothing for varying altitudes and climates. Warm jackets for evenings and higher elevations. Comfortable hiking boots for treks. Rain gear during monsoon season. Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. Power adapter (Type D, F, and G plugs, 230V). Basic first aid kit and personal medications.

International flights arrive at Paro International Airport. Domestic flights connect to Bumthang and Gelephu. Road travel is common but can be slow due to mountainous terrain.

Voltage: 230V, Frequency: 50Hz Plug types: Type D, F, and G Universal adapters recommended.

Restaurants: 5–10% if not included. Guides: $10–15 per person/day. Drivers: $5–10 per person/day. Hotels: Small tips for porters and housekeeping appreciated.

Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spiciness and use of chili peppers. National dish: Ema Datshi (chilies and cheese). Red rice and buckwheat are staples in highland areas. Suja (butter tea) is commonly served. Vegetarian options are widely available, especially in monasteries.

Culture & Behavior Tips

Bhutanese culture is rooted in Buddhism; respect monasteries and religious sites. Dress modestly; long pants and covered shoulders recommended. Always remove shoes before entering temples. Public displays of affection are discouraged. Avoid pointing feet at religious objects or people.

Internet and mobile coverage improving, but limited in rural areas. Cash is preferred outside major towns; ATMs available in Thimphu and Paro. English is widely spoken and used in schools.

BHUTAN Treasures of the Thunder Dragon: A Curated Passage Through Central Bhutan 2nd and 4th Sunday Every Month

Treasures of the Thunder Dragon: A Curated Passage Through Central Bhutan

Journey: 2025 - 2027 Duration: 10 Days Double Sharing Price: $5300 pp Single Room Price: $6300 pp Limited To: 2-16

Go deeper into the heart of central Bhutan with this specially crafted itinerary: Wander through secret monasteries rarely opened to outsiders, share tea with local monks an uncover the legends that shaped Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. Journey through Bhutan’s most captivating valleys. From the cliffside majesty of Paro’s Tiger’s Nest to the serene river terraces of Punakha, the panoramic mountain passes of Dochula, the ethereal beauty of Phobjikha, and the cultural cradle of Bumthang, every moment is created to inspire awe and be SAVORed. This popular tour will start on Sunday’s throughout the year.

Departure Dates: Starts on Sunday, two times each month

Throughout your Bhutan journey, accommodations have been carefully chosen to blend luxury, authenticity, and a deep sense of place. At Tashi Namgay Resort in Paro, riverside tranquility pairs with traditional Bhutanese design to create an elegant welcome to the kingdom. In Punakha, the intimate Dhumra Farm Resort offers sweeping views of the iconic dzong and an immersive farm-to-table experience. High in the pristine Phobjikha Valley, Hotel Phobjikha provides serene comfort with views across the winter home of the black-necked cranes. In Bumthang, the historic Swiss Guest House surrounds guests with heritage charm and organic cuisine drawn from its gardens. Back in Thimphu, the centrally located Namsay Phodrang offers modern convenience for city explorations, while the refined Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa elevates the stay with contemporary elegance, wellness experiences, and panoramic valley views. Together, these properties create a seamless balance of comfort, culture, and connection, ensuring your Bhutan adventure is both luxurious and deeply rooted in place

Upcoming Departures:

May 24 – June 2, 2026
June 14 – June 23, 2026
June 28 – July 7, 2026
July 12 – July 21, 2026
July 26 – August 4, 2026
August 9 – August 18, 2026
August 23 – September 1, 2026
September 6 – September 15, 2026
September 20 – September 29, 2026
October 11 – October 20, 2026
October 25 – November 3, 2026
November 8 – November 17, 2026
November 22 – December 1, 2026
December 13 – December 22, 2026
December 27, 2026 – January 5, 2027
January 10 – January 19, 2027
January 24 – February 2, 2027
February 14 – February 23, 2027
February 28 – March 9, 2027
March 14 – March 23, 2027
March 28 – April 6, 2027
April 11 – April 20, 2027
April 25 – May 4, 2027
May 9 – May 18, 2027
May 23 – June 1, 2027
June 13 – June 22, 2027
June 27 – July 6, 2027
July 11 – July 20, 2027
July 25 – August 3, 2027
August 8 – August 17, 2027
August 22 – August 31, 2027
September 12 – September 21, 2027
September 26 – October 5, 2027
October 10 – October 19, 2027
October 24 – November 2, 2027
November 14 – November 23, 2027
November 28 – December 7, 2027
December 12 – December 21, 2027
December 26, 2027 – January 4, 2028

Trip Overview

Visit Paro Dzong, often called Bhutan’s mini Potala Palace
Private performance of Cham-Bhutan’s sacred mask dances customized for only our group
Bhutanese hot stone bath experience (included): a centuries-old healing ritual in the heart of the Himalayas
Explore Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers
Discover Tamzhing temple, the unique Temple
Walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge
Giant Buddha statue, world’s tallest sitting buddha
Ugyencholing Palace and Tang Nunnery
Famous chimi lhakang (fertility temple)
Traditional Paper making factory

Explore the glacial Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the black-necked cranes.
Journey deep into the Bumthang region, where you’ll meet the bumtaps from different parts of Bumthang.

Hike to an ancient Tigernest Monastery.
Meet the resident nuns of Tang nunnery, Bhutan’s biggest nunnery.
Optional prayer ceremony and butter lamp offering at Kia Nunnery, offered by the nuns for your well-being.

Scenic Zurik trail hike with sweeping views over Paro valley.
Walk among 108 stupas at Dochu La pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
Peaceful Gangtey Nature Trail hike, ending with a traditional prayer flag offering.
Visit Bhutan’s first Royal Botanical Park at Lampelri.
Crane Information Centre visit to learn about black-necked cranes.
This tour promises an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey of a lifetime in Bhutan!
Prayer flag hoisting for peace, compassion, and strength

Local stalls selling local cusines, textiles, and crafts
A unique chance to experience authentic village lifestyle and its unique culture.
Bhutan’s ancient papermaking traditions
Having lesson, Bhutan’s most popular sport Archery

Stroll through rice paddies and traditional villages on your way to Chimi Lhakhang (temple of the Divine Madman)
Savor yak butter tea and locally brewed ‘ara’ spirit in Layap homes
Enjoy a farm lunch at Genekha village (mentioned earlier draft) and a relaxing hot stone bath in Paro

Boutique and 4-star lodges that combine modern comfort with Bhutanese charm
Riverside and valley-view resorts with serene settings

Cross high mountain passes and ancient forests on roads less travelled
Take a leisurely drive back from Bumthang with the chance to see rare grey langurs
Free time to explore charming town centres like Paro and Thimphu
Picnic lunch near the glacier river and in the untouched sourounding

End your trip with a relaxing morning in Paro before your departure
Part with a traditional Bhutanese wish: “We will meet again”

A travel experience like no other

Curated journeys of festivals, celebration, culture, and exclusive experiences

Visit Paro Dzong, often called Bhutan’s mini Potala Palace
Private performance of Cham-Bhutan’s sacred mask dances customized for only our group
Bhutanese hot stone bath experience (included): a centuries-old healing ritual in the heart of the Himalayas
Explore Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers
Discover Tamzhing temple, the unique Temple
Walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge
Giant Buddha statue, world’s tallest sitting buddha
Ugyencholing Palace and Tang Nunnery
Famous chimi lhakang (fertility temple)
Traditional Paper making factory

Explore the glacial Phobjikha Valley, winter home of the black-necked cranes.
Journey deep into the Bumthang region, where you’ll meet the bumtaps from different parts of Bumthang.

Hike to an ancient Tigernest Monastery.
Meet the resident nuns of Tang nunnery, Bhutan’s biggest nunnery.
Optional prayer ceremony and butter lamp offering at Kia Nunnery, offered by the nuns for your well-being.

Scenic Zurik trail hike with sweeping views over Paro valley.
Walk among 108 stupas at Dochu La pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
Peaceful Gangtey Nature Trail hike, ending with a traditional prayer flag offering.
Visit Bhutan’s first Royal Botanical Park at Lampelri.
Crane Information Centre visit to learn about black-necked cranes.
This tour promises an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey of a lifetime in Bhutan!
Prayer flag hoisting for peace, compassion, and strength

Local stalls selling local cusines, textiles, and crafts
A unique chance to experience authentic village lifestyle and its unique culture.
Bhutan’s ancient papermaking traditions
Having lesson, Bhutan’s most popular sport Archery

Stroll through rice paddies and traditional villages on your way to Chimi Lhakhang (temple of the Divine Madman)
Savor yak butter tea and locally brewed ‘ara’ spirit in Layap homes
Enjoy a farm lunch at Genekha village (mentioned earlier draft) and a relaxing hot stone bath in Paro

Boutique and 4-star lodges that combine modern comfort with Bhutanese charm
Riverside and valley-view resorts with serene settings

Cross high mountain passes and ancient forests on roads less travelled
Take a leisurely drive back from Bumthang with the chance to see rare grey langurs
Free time to explore charming town centres like Paro and Thimphu
Picnic lunch near the glacier river and in the untouched sourounding

End your trip with a relaxing morning in Paro before your departure
Part with a traditional Bhutanese wish: “We will meet again”

Day 1

Warm welcome at Paro airport by guide
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest temples
Lunch at a local restaurant
Visit Ta Dzong – Bhutan’s National Museum
Overnight: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 2

Full-day Taktsang Monastery hike (5–6 hrs round trip)
Optional horse ride to the viewpoint
Lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria
Traditional hot stone bath and
home-cooked Bhutanese dinner at a local homestay
Overnight: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 3

Drive to 4000m pass between Paro & Haa for Himalayan views
Sky burial hike (3 hrs round-trip) – learn local Buddhist burial customs
Visit Kila Nunnery & interact with nuns
Explore Dzongdrakha Lhakhang – the “second Tiger’s Nest” built into a cliff
Free time to shop & sip coffee in Paro town
Overnight: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 4

Visit Buddha Dordenma statue with panoramic views
Explore Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s national animal
Visit Bhutan’s ancient papermaking tradition
Short forest hike to Wangduetse Temple
Visit Post Office & local vegetable market
Overnight at Norkhil Boutique Hotel

Day 5

Scenic drive via Dochu La Pass with 108 chortens and Himalayan views
Birdwatching and 1-hour nature hike in Royal Botanical Park (Lamperi)
Visiting humorous chimi lhakang temple and near by village
Visit Punakha Dzong – historic riverside fortress
Cross Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge
Private performance of Cham-Bhutan’s sacred mask dances customized for only our group
Overnight: Dhumra Farm Resort

Day 6

Drive to stunning Gangtey (Phobjikha) Valley
Visit Gangtey Monastery – seat of the Nyingma tradition
Gentle 2.5-hour Gangtey Nature Trail hike
Visit Crane Information Centre (Black-necked cranes)
Overnight: Hotel Phobjikha

Day 7

Long scenic drive via Trongsa & Pele La Pass
One of the most beautifully stupa Chendebji Chorten
Stop at Drukwilling Café (waterfall view lunch)
Trongsa Taa Dzong – museum has an incredible collection of historical artefacts of the Royal family.
See Trongsa Dzong and cross the Black Mountains
Visit Tamshing Temple in Bumthang
Overnight: Swiss Guest House

Day 8

Visit Mebartsho (Burning Lake) – sacred site
Tour Tang Nunnery and interact with resident nuns
Explore Ugyen Choling Palace & Museum
Visit a sheep farm for sweeping views of Bumthang
Tour and beer tasting at Red Panda Brewery and cheese factory
Experience the true taste of Bhutan with an authentic cooking lesson
Overnight: Swiss Guest House

Day 9

Scenic 30 mins flight to Paro
Leisure zurik hike
beautiful riverside location for a picnic lunch
Archery lesson and match
Visit Paro Arsenal Brewery for local beer tasting
Meditation or optional town walk
Overnight: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 10

Hike to top of the ridge (skyburial) with stunning views of Paro and Haa valley
Visit kila nunnery – one of Bhutan’s oldest nunneries
Butter lamp offering ceremony with the nuns
Lunch (picnic lunch set up)
Visit Dzongdrakha – chiff temple
Overnight: Tashi Namgay Resort

Day 1

Sunday - Paro

Welcome to Bhutan! Your detailed itinerary sounds like a fantastic way to start your journey in this beautiful country.

Let me provide you with a brief overview of what you can expect during your first day: Upon your arrival, your friendly tour guide will be waiting for you at the exit doors of the airport, holding a plaque written Seek and Savor. This greeting will mark the beginning of never to be forgotten journey. You will transfer to check-in in the hotel and take a rest.

After a rest, and the arrival of the remainder of the group, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, believed to have been built in the 7th century. This temple holds significant historical and cultural importance, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore its grounds.

Following your visits to the Kyichu Lhakhang, you’ll enjoy an early lunch to refuel.

After Lunch visit the Iconic Paro Dzong and National Museum of Bhutan, which is said to be one of most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan, which look like mini Patola Palace in Tibet.

Overnight in Tashi Namgay – Stunning riverside resort with a breathtaking view of the airport set against a majestic mountain backdrop. The rooms are a true gem, offering the soothing, tranquil sound of flowing river water that creates a deeply relaxing atmosphere

Hotel:
Tashi Namgay

Lunch
Dinner

Day 2

Monday - Paro

(Taktsang hike – 5 to 6 hours round trip)

The much-anticipated day of your visit to Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as the “Tiger’s Nest,” has arrived. Here’s a detailed look at your day’s schedule:

After a restful night’s sleep and a satisfying breakfast, you’ll be all set for the adventure ahead. Wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for the hike.

Your journey begins as you make your way to the base of the Taktsang hike. This iconic monastery is perched dramatically on a cliff, and reaching it involves a rewarding hike. For those who prefer, there’s an option to skip visiting the Temple and hike above tiger nest for the better view of the temple and valley. The stunning natural beauty surrounding you makes the journey memorable.

Taktsang Monastery is a significant site in Bhutan, and its history is intertwined with Guru

Rinpoche’s legendary flight on a tigress to subdue local demons. The monastery, clinging to a rock cliff at over 800 meters above the valley floor, is a remarkable sight. The monastery was damaged by fire in 1998 but has been meticulously restored to its original condition and consecrated by the 4th King in 2005.

After descending from the monastery, you’ll enjoy lunch at the Taktsang cafeteria. This spot offers a stunning view of the monastery, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for your meal.

After the hike, we will enjoy a traditional hot stone bath (INCLUDED) and the local hospitality of our hosts who will serve up a sumptuous Bhutanese dinner at one of the friendly homestays in the Paro valley.

Overnight in Tashi Namgay

Hotel:
Tashi Namgay

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 3

Tuesday - Paro to Thimphu (1.5-hour drive)

Culture sights in capital

Your second day in Bhutan seems like another day full of exploration, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. Let’s delve into the details of your itinerary for the day:

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic drive to the capital city of Thimphu. The drive itself will be a pleasant experience as you follow the Paa Chhu river, taking in the picturesque surroundings.

Once we are in Thimphu, you’ll head to the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue at Kuenselphodrang. This monumental statue of the Buddha stands as a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. You’ll have the opportunity to enter the statue, explore its interior filled with smaller replica statues, and offer prayers if you wish. The panoramic view of Thimphu valley from this vantage point is breathtaking.

After Lunch, visit Takin Preservation center to witness Bhutan’s national animal, one of the weirdest looking animals.

While in Thimphu, step into the world of Bhutan’s ancient papermaking tradition with a visit to a local handmade paper factory, such as the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory. “Jungshi” means “natural”, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience — paper made entirely from Daphne bark, harvested sustainably from Bhutan’s forests.

During your visit, you’ll witness the entire process — from soaking and boiling the bark, to pulping, layering, pressing, and drying the sheets in the sun. Each step is done by hand, using traditional tools and techniques passed down through generations

Embark on a short hike from the monastic school gate to Wangduetse temple. This historic temple, built in 1567 and restored in 1750, carries its own significance and charm. The hike will lead you through blue pine forests, rose shrubs, and baby oak trees. The return journey will offer a different path to enjoy.

With ample time to explore the city, Thimphu’s streets offer a unique atmosphere, visit places like the main Post Office and bustling vegetable market of Bhutan. You may even have a personalized stamp made for you at the post office, with your photo on it !

Overnight in- Norkhil Boutique Hotel & SPA, nestled in the Himalayan foothills of Thimphu, offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s growth. The hotel prioritizes guest well-being through holistic treatments, organic cuisine, and a beautiful natural environment.

Hotel:
Norkhil Boutique

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner