Bhutan Adventure

  • 9 Days
  • 14 People Max

    5 - 14 guests

  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      On the Move

      Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Kathmandu
  • Trip End: Kathmandu
Bhutan Discovery Thunder Dragon

Take time to experience breathtaking hikes, temples and traditions on our Bhutan Adventure.

If the Kingdom of Bhutan is a must on your adventure bucket list, our 9-day Bhutan Adventure is a perfect fit. On this trip, you'll enjoy gentle hikes through the wilderness of Bhutan, take advantage of the finest accommodations along the way and gain a profound appreciation of one of the happiest countries in the world. Starting in Kathmandu, you'll anticipate the adventures ahead as you take a scenic flight above the Himalayas to Paro. From here, you'll explore the most beautiful hikes in Bhutan, some well-known - think the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery, and some less so, like the Gangte Nature Trail in the Phobjikha Valley. You'll be looked after by two guides, one local and one native English speaker, who will teach you about the warm Buddhism influences and unique Bhutanese songs and folklore along the way. This adventure through Bhutan will stick with you for years to come.

Trip Highlights

Tiger’s Nest

HikingHiking

Gangte Nature Trail

HikingHiking

Village trekking

HikingHiking

The Himalayas

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Explore temples

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National Museum & Rinpung Dzong

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Bhutan Flight

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Bhutan Adventure ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Kathmandu Trip End: Kathmandu
  • Day 1Arrive Kathmandu

  • Day 2Fly to Paro, Bhutan. Visit Tashichho Dzong

  • Day 3Journey to Buddha Dordenma, hike to Changangkha Lhakhang Temple

  • Day 4Hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple

  • Day 5Hike the Gangte Nature Trail

  • Day 6Journey to Thimphu, visit the National Museum, onto Paro

  • Day 7Hike to Tiger's Nest

  • Day 8Fly to Kathmandu, free afternoon

  • Day 9Depart

  • Day 1

    Arrive Kathmandu

    Your trip starts in the lively and bustling city of Kathmandu. If you arrive early, you can head out to explore the city’s labyrinth of back street courtyards, colorful market stalls and ancient temples on your own for your first taste of Nepal’s culture and friendly people. Your guide will meet you around 5pm today, and run your group through what to expect from the days ahead. Tonight we’ll take you out for dinner at a local restaurant - Nepal dining is a culinary crossroad between the influences of China, India and Europe which makes for some really delicious flavor combinations. Elevation: Kathmandu 1400 kilometers (4,600 feet)

    Marriott Hotel, Kathmandu (Dinner)

  • Day 2

    Fly to Paro, Bhutan. Visit Tashichho Dzong

    Prepare to shift gears as we leave the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu and fly east to the Kingdom of Bhutan. This is a country, situated on the silk road, that has endured independence for centuries and has never been colonized! Bhutan is the least populous nation in South Asia, ranking first in economic freedom, ease of doing business and peace. After driving from Paro to Thimphu, we’ll visit Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of the city. Next, it’s onto the Tarkin wildlife reserve, and we’ll have lunch at Simply Bhutan, an interactive living Museum where we’ll experience an introduction into traditional life in Bhutan. Dinner this evening is at the hotel, and you’ll have a chance to soak in your first culturally-immersive day in Bhutan. Elevation: Thimphu - 2334 meters (7,657 feet) Elevation: Thimphu - 2334 meters (7,657 feet)

    Hotel Damisa or similar, Thimphu (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 2 kilometers (1.2 miles)

  • Day 3

    Journey to Buddha Dordenma, hike to Changangkha Lhakhang Temple

    Making the most of our day, we’ll take an early breakfast before departing for Buddha Dordenma, overlooking Thimphu valley. This statue is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world, and we’ll visit the temple the Buddha sits on. Afterwards, we’ll hike a forest trail from Buddha Dordenma, down through the Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park. After lunch, we’ll journey to the lush district of Punakha, known for the Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress. Our journey to Punakha will take us over the Dochula pass. When the weather is nice, this pass (3,100 m / 10,300 ft) offers tremendous views of the eastern Himalayan ranges and along the pass there are an astonishing 108 memorial chortens. We’ll take some time to explore this majestic fortress, which is the administrative center of Punakha District. Elevation: Punakha - 1242 meters (4,075 feet)

    Dharma Suddhi or similar, Punakha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 5 kilometers (3 miles)

  • Day 4

    Hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple

    We’ll stretch our legs after breakfast with a hike up the trail leading to the Klamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. The stupa was built to protect Bhutan from evil forces and help bring peace to the world. Your ascent will be rewarded with incredible views overlooking the Punakha Valley. Afterwards we’ll explore the Punakha Dzong, taking a short hike from the Dzong across a swing bridge towards a local farmhouse, where we’ll enjoy lunch. We’ll then drive to Chimi Lakhang, the Fertility Temple. This Buddhist temple is renowned throughout Bhutan as a fertility inducing magnet - thousands make the pilgrimage each year in the hopes of having a child, as well as receiving a blessing from the saint with the ‘magic thunderbolt of wisdom’. Elevation: Punakha - 1242 meters (4,075 feet)

    Dharma Suddhi or similar, Punakha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 3 kilometers (1.9 miles)

  • Day 5

    Hike the Gangte Nature Trail

    This morning we’ll journey east to Phobjikha. The walk we’ll take here, along the Gangte Nature Trail, is spectacular! We’ll pass through flowering meadows, lush forest and a small village. At the end of our hike, we’ll arrive at Khewang Lhakhang, a 15th-century Buddhist Temple with statues of the past, present and future Buddhas. This area has some wonderful valley viewpoints, where there are opportunities to see Black-necked cranes, or ‘Thrung Thrung Karmo’, the subject of many Bhutanese songs and folklore. Our hotel tonight offers another fine example of the local hospitality you’ll experience on this trip, with outstanding service and exotic food... And did we mention the views!? Elevation: Phobjikha - 3000 meters (9,842 feet)

    ABC Lodge or similar, Phobjikha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: 7.5 kilometers (4.6 miles)

  • Day 6

    Journey to Thimphu, visit the National Museum, onto Paro

    After breakfast we’ll depart for the journey back to Paro, taking lunch along the way. In Paro we’ll visit Rinpung Dzong, and you’ll also have views of this Buddhist monastery from your hotel, as it’s lit up in the evening. Elevation: Paro - 2200 meters (7,218 feet)

    Tashi Namgay Resort or similar, Paro (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 2 kilometers (1.2 miles)

  • Day 7

    Hike to Tiger's Nest

    A trip to Bhutan is not complete until you’ve visited Paro Taktsang, Tiger’s Nest. We’ll take an early breakfast so that we can begin hiking whilst the trail is quiet - the trek is challenging - and thankfully this is what protects this extraordinary attraction from overcrowding. Once you’ve cleared the trees you’ll get your first glimpse of the Tiger’s Nest, somehow perched on the cliff high above the valley floor. Once at the monastery you’ll take a fascinating tour of the buildings, with plenty of time to find a quiet spot and soak it all in. You’ll be in awe, wondering how the Buddhists established this area, first as a meditation cave in the 8th century and later as a monastery in the 17th century. Amazing! Our final dinner will take place at the ‘Farmhouse’ for a Bhutanese Cultural performance and wait for it... Some hot stone baths! Elevation: Paro - 2200 meters (7,218 feet)

    Tashi Namgay Resort or similar, Paro (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Up to 6 kilometers (4 miles)

  • Day 8

    Fly to Kathmandu, free afternoon

    We’ll take a morning flight back to Nepal, so with any luck, we’ll be treated to more spectacular Himalayan views out of the right-hand side of the plane. For those who are keen after lunch, we’ll walk to Durbar Square, the place where Nepal’s kings were crowned in past times. The square is in the center of old town Kathmandu, and is the city’s greatest example of traditional architecture, so much so that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Tonight we’ll meet at a local restaurant for our final dinner together to celebrate our achievements and adventures in the Himalayas. Elevation: Kathmandu - 1400 meters (4,600 feet)

    Marriott Hotel, Kathmandu (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 9

    Depart

    Today is the final day of your Bhutan cultural exploration. If you have extra time after your trip, we’re happy to give suggestions on how to make the most of it. On the other hand, if you’re on your way home today, we’ll send you back refreshed and invigorated from the great hiking and adventures you’ve had with us!

    No Accommodation (Breakfast)

Bhutan Adventure Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $6299/per adult
24 Oct 2023
2023
24 Oct1 Nov
Departure Full Full
31 Oct 2023
2023
31 Oct8 Nov
Departure Open Open
7 Nov 2023
2023
7 Nov15 Nov
Departure Full Full
21 Nov 2023
2023
21 Nov29 Nov
Departure Full Full
2 Mar 2024
2024
2 Mar10 Mar
Departure Open Open
16 Mar 2024
2024
16 Mar24 Mar
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
30 Mar 2024
2024
30 Mar7 Apr
Departure Open Open
22 Oct 2024
2024
22 Oct30 Oct
Departure Open Open
5 Nov 2024
2024
5 Nov13 Nov
Departure Filling Up Filling Up
19 Nov 2024
2024
19 Nov27 Nov
Departure Open Open
4 Mar 2025
2025
4 Mar12 Mar
Departure Open Open
18 Mar 2025
2025
18 Mar26 Mar
Departure Open Open
1 Apr 2025
2025
1 Apr9 Apr
Departure Open Open

Included

  • An experienced Active Adventures Himalayas guide 
  • A team of local guides and porters (except Bhutan)  
  • 7:1 guest-to-guide ratio 
  • Our ‘Red Carpet’ pre-trip customer care service available to answer questions 
  • Travel Wallet: a resource for everything you need to know about your trip in one secure space!
  • All accommodation for the duration of your trip 
  • All activities described in the itinerary 
  • All necessary gear where indicated in the itinerary 
  • Most meals (except where indicated, so you can sample the local cuisine independently!) 
  • All drinking water (including while trekking) 
  • Unlimited snacks 
  • Specially curated tour ‘Wow’ moments throughout your trip 
  • All ground transportation and flights (where indicated) during the trip 
  • All hiking and park entry fees and permits 

Not Included

  • International/Domestic Flights and transfers to and from the meeting point 
  • Accommodation before/after the trip (but we can organize this for you if required!) 
  • Optional extra activities 
  • Travel insurance (Mandatory for this destination)
  • Alcoholic beverages 
  • Gratuities for your guides at the end of your fabulous trip 

Interactive Trip Map: Click on the map icons to read details for each day

Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Kathmandu airport (KTM), whenever you fly in on Day 1, or we'll meet you at the Marriott Hotel at 5pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel with us, or any other hotel in Kathmandu, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Kathmandu Airport in time for flights departing any time or anywhere in the Central Kathmandu downtown area after breakfast.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: If you’re flying into Kathmandu on the first day or your trip then we recommend arriving in Kathmandu before 4pm.

Note: If you have booked your accommodation through your Travel details to stay at the Marriott Hotel prior to your trip starting, a friendly face from the Marriott Hotel will meet you at the airport and take you to your accommodation in the city.

Departure: On the last day of the trip, you can fly out at any time that suits. If you want to arrive earlier or leave later, we’re happy to help out booking extra hotel accommodation.

What do I need to bring to the first night trip briefing?

Please meet us in the lobby of the Marriott Hotel at 5pm for a pre-trip briefing and our first dinner together! The Marriott Hotel is a 15 minute drive from the Tribhuvan International Airport, and is located at Manakamana Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal, ph +977 1-4443040.
Please bring along your passport, a photo copy of your passport and a copy of your travel insurance document.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

As an Activity Level 1-2 trip, you’ll need a good level of fitness for this trip. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills, down hills and steps. Advance preparation means you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more.

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

This trip begins at an altitude of 1,400 metres (4,600 feet) in Kathmandu and will take you up to 3,120 metres (10,240 feet) at Tiger’s Nest. Unless you’ve travelled to and slept around this altitude in the past there is no reliable way to predict how well you’re going to cope. While most people experience some mild symptoms, these are usually limited to a few days while your body adjusts and acclimatises.

What accommodations do we stay at on this trip?

We’ve selected the accommodation for the unique character and adventuresome feel – this trip isn’t designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Nepal & Bhutan. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s and lodges, all with private, ensuite bathrooms.

The best time to do laundry will be during our two night stay in Punakha or in Paro on your free afternoon. While there may be other opportunities to do laundry elsewhere if need be they won’t be as convenient. Self-service laundries are rare, so you’ll probably need to use on-site hotel laundry services or off-site lavanderias, though we recommend hand-washing technical fabrics yourself.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You'll need one piece of luggage plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase and a good quality trekking daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) is required for the days on the trail.

Included in your itinerary are return flights from Kathmandu to Paro. The weight requirements on these flights are maximum 30 kilograms (60 pounds) for your check in bag, and maximum 5 kilograms (11 pounds) for your daypack/ carry on.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

Is tipping expected in Bhutan?

Tipping is accepted in Bhutan (and appreciated!), most people also choose to tip their Active Adventures guides. We recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, for your Active Adventures trip leader, your local Nepali guide and local Bhutan guide. Your loose change (or 5%) is fine in cheaper places; around 10% in more expensive restaurants. Tips are gratefully accepted in either their local currency or US dollars.

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Our Local Guides

Why Travel With Us

benefit group size

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience with the perspective of an insider.

benefit guides

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, are experts in motivation, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. Every detail is handled; all you need to do is show up!

benefit safety

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted vendors and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides and our seasoned operations team at headquarters.

benefit family

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries and sustained relationships for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

benefit wow

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience. If we’ve done our job, they’ll have you saying “wow!”

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Himalayas

Bhutan Adventure