Bhutan Himalayan Adventure CME

Itinerary for 2026:

Days 1–2: Arrival & Thimphu Valley

We fly into Paro and roll into Bhutan’s laid-back capital, Thimphu. After settling in, we explore the town and hike through oak forests to Tango Monastery, perched above the valley. Visits to hilltop temples, the takin preserve, and local neighborhoods round out our first days in Bhutan.

Days 3–4: High Passes & Punakha Valley

Cross the iconic Dochula Pass (10,200 ft), hiking through prayer flags, chortens, and Himalayan forest with sweeping mountain views. We descend into warm Punakha Valley, hike to a stunning hilltop chorten, and explore the legendary Punakha Dzong, dramatically set at the confluence of two rivers.

Days 5–6: Central Bhutan & Sacred Valleys

We drive east over high mountain passes to Trongsa, ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family, then continue into Bumthang, the spiritual heart of the country. Along the way, we hike to remote monasteries and explore historic sites tucked deep into the mountains.

Days 7–8: Bumthang Culture & Festival

Hike through meadows, forests, and villages along the Chamkhar River, visiting ancient temples and suspension bridges. We experience a traditional village festival, complete with masked dances, music, and local celebrations. Evenings include farmhouse visits, local food, and Bhutanese hospitality.

Days 9–10: Return to Paro & High-Altitude Hikes

A scenic flight brings us back to Paro. We explore the National Museum and Paro Dzong, then hike from Chele La Passdown to remote cliffside monasteries and the Kila Nunnery, one of Bhutan’s few nunneries.

Day 11: Tiger’s Nest

The grand finale: a hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), clinging to a sheer cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. One of the most iconic pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas—and an unforgettable finish to the journey.

Day 12: Departure

Morning transfer to Paro Airport for flights home via Bangkok.

Note:
Festival dates and some activities may shift due to local scheduling or weather—flexibility is part of the Bhutan adventure.

Itinerary for 2027 & 2028:

Days 1–2: Arrival in Bhutan & Discovering Thimphu

Arrive in Paro and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, stopping along the way to visit a historic 15th-century iron bridge built by the revered saint Thangthong Gyelpo and the nearby Tacho Monastery. In Thimphu, enjoy panoramic views from the towering Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley. The following day, hike through oak forests to Tango Monastery, an important monastic retreat and school, before exploring Bhutan’s traditional arts at the Arts & Crafts School and visiting the takin sanctuary to see Bhutan’s unique national animal.

Days 3–4: Mountain Passes & the Punakha Valley

Travel through forested landscapes to begin a scenic hike from Trashigang Goenpa to Lungchuzekha Monastery, passing through rhododendron and pine forests with sweeping Himalayan views. Continue to the famous Dochula Pass, known for its 108 stupas and colorful prayer flags, before visiting Chimi Lhakhang, Bhutan’s beloved fertility temple. In Punakha Valley, hike to the hilltop Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten for spectacular views before exploring the magnificent Punakha Dzong, a stunning riverside fortress that served as Bhutan’s former capital and remains one of the country’s most important cultural landmarks.

Days 5–6: Across Central Bhutan to Bumthang

Journey east across Pele La Pass and hike a scenic section of the historic Trans Bhutan Trail through alpine meadows, traditional villages, and yak-grazing country. Visit remote temples and stop at Chendibji Chorten before arriving in Trongsa, home to Bhutan’s ancestral royal seat. Explore the impressive Trongsa Dzong, then continue across high mountain passes to Bumthang, stopping for a rewarding hike to Tharpaling Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important Buddhist centers, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.

Days 7–8: Spiritual Heritage & Village Life in Bumthang

Discover the cultural heartland of Bhutan with visits to some of its most sacred sites. Explore Kurje Lhakhang before hiking through peaceful forests and meadows to the village of Thangbi and Nga Lhakhang, the “Swan Temple.” Enjoy an authentic farmhouse experience featuring traditional Bhutanese dress, local food and drink, and archery. The following day, visit the sacred Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho) and enjoy a special visit to Pemacholing Nunnery, where you will learn about Buddhist rituals and participate in a chanting meditation session. The day concludes with a visit to a local brewery and cheese factory that blends Swiss techniques with Bhutanese traditions.

Days 9–10: Paro Valley & Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Fly back to Paro, enjoying spectacular aerial views of Bhutan’s valleys and Himalayan peaks. Visit the National Museum and the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong before spending time exploring the charming town. The journey culminates with a hike to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, Taktsang Monastery, or Tiger’s Nest, dramatically perched on a cliff high above the Paro Valley. This sacred pilgrimage site, associated with Guru Padmasambhava, offers both spiritual significance and unforgettable views.

Day 11: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight, bringing an end to an immersive journey through Bhutan’s monasteries, mountain landscapes, cultural traditions, and spiritual heritage.