Bhutan Adventure with IVS
This International Veterinary Seminars course takes place in the remote Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan.
It is a country of mountains, untouched forests, and fortified monasteries that lies nestled in the high Himalaya. The size of Switzerland with a population of less than one million, it vigilantly protects it ancient traditions, religion and culture. Traveling there is like visiting Nepal or Tibet forty years ago.
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Trip Highlights
- Hike and explore the Himalayas in the Kingdom of Bhutan
- Discover forested valleys, soaring peaks, ancient monasteries, and Buddhist culture
- Travel through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, and Trongsa
- Cross high mountain passes and visit spectacular dzongs and villages
- Participate in a International Veterinary Seminars lectures with expert-led sessions
- Daily hikes and cultural immersion enhance the learning experience
- Culminate the adventure with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, 3,000 feet above Paro Valley
About this trip
Bhutan Adventure with IVS
Hike the Himalayas. Learn in the Last Shangri-La.
Join us in the remote Kingdom of Bhutan, a Himalayan world of forested valleys, soaring peaks, ancient monasteries, and deep-rooted Buddhist culture. Tucked between India and China, Bhutan remains one of the most intact and inspiring places on Earth.
This International Veterinary Seminars blends active exploration with expert-led education as we journey through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, and Trongsa, crossing high mountain passes and visiting spectacular dzongs and villages along the way.
The adventure culminates with a hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley, an unforgettable highlight in every sense.
Along the way, Howard Seim III, DVM will present surgical management of common abdominal problems in practice.
CE: 12 RACE approved CE hours
Itinerary
What to expect
Days 1–2: Arrival & Thimphu Valley
We fly into Paro and roll into Bhutan’s laid-back capital, Thimphu. After settling in, we explore 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 Pass down 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 2,700 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.
Lodging
Where you'll stay
Thimphu
A luxury four-star hotel is a part of the Tashi Group and has been in operation since 1985. Over the years, it has been renovated to give it a chic and modern edge that is powerfully felt in uncluttered spaces. Each floor, differently inspired, explores a subtle palette drawn from water, air, earth, fire and sky.
Punakha
Trongsa
Bumthang
Paro
Perched on the mountain slopes above the airport and opposite the important Paro Dzong and historical Taa Dzong (the National museum). This location therefore offers all our guests a magnificent view of the Paro valley from the comfort of their bedroom or private veranda.
Dates & Pricing
Plan your trip
Dates
November 7-18, 2026
Pricing
2026
$6,400 per person, based on double occupancy
$895 – Optional CE credits: 12 AAVSB RACE approved hours
Not included: R/T Flight from BKK (Bangkok) to Paro, Bhutan & Domestic Flight in Bhutan
**International flights should be booked on your own R/T to BKK.
You will need to arrive the night prior to Day One of your trip, to make the group’s morning flight. The Hyatt Regency Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport is the suggested airport hotel by BKK.
Howard Seim III, DVM will present surgical management of common abdominal problems in practice.
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