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Overview
The remote Kingdom of Bhutan, long isolated from the outside world, only opened its doors to tourism in 1974. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, this fascinating country offers a rare glimpse into a deeply spiritual culture that has remained largely untouched by modern development. This journey through western Bhutan unveils the enduring traditions, dramatic landscapes, and sacred heritage of the ‘Dragon Kingdom’—with visits to majestic fortresses (dzongs), serene monasteries, and vibrant local markets.
Standard Itinerary – 2025
Meal Key: B – Breakfast | L – Lunch | D – Dinner | N – No meals
Day 1: Fly to Kathmandu
Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Kathmandu.
Meals: N
Day 2: Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the Hotel Himalaya (or similar) for a 2-night stay. Remainder of the day at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel Himalaya
Meals: N
Day 3: Kathmandu
Explore Kathmandu’s highlights:
- Durbar Square – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Kumari Chowk – residence of the Living Goddess
- Itumbahal – historic Newari courtyard
- Indra Chowk & Ason Chowk – vibrant market areas
- Annapurna Temple – goddess of grains
- Pashupatinath – Hindu temple complex (view from the ghats)
- Bodhnath Stupa – the largest stupa in Nepal
Accommodation: Hotel Himalaya
Meals: B
Day 4: Fly to Paro | Arrive Thimphu
Fly to Paro, then transfer by road to Thimphu. Afternoon visits include:
- School of Arts and Crafts
- Institute of Traditional Medicine
- Traditional papermaking factory
- Textile Museum
- Museum of Folk Heritage
- National Library (subject to opening times)
Accommodation: City Hotel Thimphu
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5: Thimphu
Morning sightseeing:
- National Memorial Chorten – Buddhist murals and statues
- Tashichho Dzong – government and monastic complex
- Handicraft shops with traditional textiles
Evening: Dinner with a Bhutanese family featuring local dishes.
Accommodation: City Hotel Thimphu
Meals: B, L, D
Day 6: Punakha
Scenic drive to Punakha via the Dochula Pass (approx. 3.5 hrs). Visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to observe rural architecture.
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort
Meals: B, L, D
Day 7: Punakha
Visit Punakha Dzong – the 17th-century ‘Palace of Happiness’ set at a river confluence. Later, meet monks at the Nalanda Buddhist Institute, surrounded by stunning Himalayan scenery.
Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort
Meals: B, L, D
Day 8: Paro
Drive to Paro (approx. 5 hrs). Afternoon visits:
- Ta Dzong – national museum of Bhutanese heritage
- Bhutanese cooking class at a local restaurant, including ema datshi
Accommodation: Village Lodge
Meals: B, L, D
Day 9: Paro
Trek to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery – a 5-hour round-trip hike with rest stops and teahouse break.
Afternoon:
- Rinpung Dzong – fortress with historical significance and local governance
- Try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport
Accommodation: Village Lodge
Meals: B, L, D
Day 10: Fly to Kathmandu
Return flight to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Himalaya
Meals: B, D
Day 11: Fly to London
Morning at leisure before your return flight to London.
Meals: B
Day 12: Arrive London
Arrival in London.
Meals: N
