Essence of Bhutan
Group or Custom | 12 Days | Limited to 12 Guests
- Explore the country’s most enthralling spaces: Phobjikha—winter nesting site for the rare black-necked crane—lush Punakha Valley, and modern capital Thimphu
- Connect with Bhutan’s warm-hearted locals while experiencing their long-standing traditions: archery matches, prayer flag making, a traditional cooking lesson, and sacred prayer ceremonies
- Uncover the treasures of the Bumthang region, where Bhutan’s highest concentration of ancient temples and sacred monuments reside
- Admire Taktsang Lhakhang, the cliff-clinging Tiger’s Nest Monastery, then make a pilgrimage to its summit
GeoEx’s Essence of Bhutan itinerary is a compilation of cherished, must-see sights and rich cultural experiences, informed by nearly 40 years of sharing this little-known Himalayan kingdom with our travelers.
Explore remote villages and hidden valleys, immersing yourself in breathtaking mountain scenery and traditional Bhutanese architecture. Get to know the country’s thoughtful people and their way of life when crossing their path on soul-settling rambles or when lighting sacred butter lamps at their side. Come evening, relax at wonderful local hotels, rejoicing in this unique island of sanity and peace.
Trip Overview
It was a great itinerary, in a great country, led by a great guide and driver, with other congenial guests. We feel we really saw the country.
– WALTER N.
1
Our journey begins in the Paro Valley, where dzong stand watch and politics and religion intermingle.
2 – 3
Fly east to the Bumthang region and explore its spectacular mountain landscapes, ancient temples and sacred monuments, and tradition of woodcarving and weaving.
4 – 6
Heading west by road, we discover the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, winter nesting site for rare black-necked cranes Visit Bhutan’s largest fortress and hike to Gangteng Gompa, a 17th-century monastery.
7 – 8
The semitropical surroundings of Punakha welcome us We tour its immense dzong and ramble to small temples, including a jewel-like chorten tucked in pine forest above a river.
9 – 10
Our drive across 10,223-foot Dochu La (known for dazzling Himalayan views) leads to Thimphu, Bhutan’s largest city Take in the market, textile museum, and an archery match before returning to Paro.
11 – 12
Hike to Taktsang Lhakhang, the Tiger’s Nest, a monastery clinging to a vertical granite cliff 2000 feet above the valley floor Flights home depart from Paro.
EASY EXTENSIONS TO CAMBODIA & LAOS
If you'd like to tie in a visit to Angkor Wat's phenomenal ruins (one of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements) or to Luang Prabang's serene streets and gilded temples, GeoEx destinations specialists are happy to make the arrangements.
Dates & Prices
Dates
11/04/24 – 11/15/24
11/13/24 – 11/24/24
04/02/25 – 04/13/25
10/08/25 – 10/19/25
11/05/25 – 11/16/25
Custom Trips offered year-round
Pricing
Group Trip: From $10,750 per person
Custom Trip: From $12,300 per person
estimate based on two travelers, sharing a room
Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee: $1,100 per person
Inclusions
- Expertise of GeoEx’s travel specialists
- Services of GeoEx’s in-house air reservations team
- All accommodations
- All meals
- All ground transportation and airport transfers
- Sightseeing, events, visits, and entrance fees
- Bottled water at included meals and while sightseeing
- Services of a GeoEx trip leader, local guides, drivers, and other staff
- All gratuities, except for GeoEx trip leader
- Emergency evacuation services and secondary medical expense insurance
A Journey Built Just For You
Take customization to the next level on a journey fully tailored to you. GeoEx's destination specialists will gladly tailor this existing itinerary—or build one completely from scratch—to suit your style, interests, and time frame. Contact us to see what's possible.
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