Explore the natural beauty and colourful culture of Bhutan, exclusively yours.
Your private Bhutan
Punakha, Gangtey, Paro
Enjoy exclusive adventures and signature experiences
Hosted by private guides and knowledgeable specialists
For adventurers, cultural lovers and spiritual wonderers
Trekking excursions, magnificent hikes and walks abound
Explore historic villages, cultural icons and heritage spots
Blessing ceremonies and tailored meditation sessions
Your journey at a glance
This 10-day journey through Bhutan highlights a trio of extraordinary areas, each abundant with breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating dzongs, places of worship and welcoming local communities.
Your adventure begins in Punakha, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan snow peaks and embark on picturesque hikes to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Wander through lush rice and chili fields, and explore untouched pine forests. Discover a serene nunnery adorned with stunning statues of significant Buddhist figures, many of which are masterpieces crafted by local Bhutanese artisans. Pay a visit to Chimi Lakhang, a temple dedicated to the revered saint Drukpa Kuenley, famously known as the “Divine Madman.”
The next leg of your journey takes you to Gangtey, offering sweeping views of the Phobjikha Valley, one of Bhutan’s most exquisite landscapes. This valley is an annual haven for endangered black-necked cranes during the winter months. Your journey culminates in Paro, where you’ll traverse lush rhododendron forests and sparkling streams, passing through charming villages and gaining insight into local communities.
A highlight of your adventure is the hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the world’s most venerated Buddhist sites. Finally, take to the skies in a helicopter, savouring spectacular views of the Kingdom of Bhutan from above.
TAILORMAKE YOUR STAY
Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake your stay to any of our destinations
A taste of what to expect…
Day 1 to 4 | Arrival
Punakha
&Beyond Punakha River Lodge
Upon arrival in Paro, you’ll be greeted by your guide and chauffeured to Punakha, a scenic 4-hour drive.
Along the way, make a stop at the stunning Dochu La Pass. Upon reaching Punakha, check in at your lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
This will be your home for the next four nights, offering you an incredible opportunity to explore:
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Dochu La: At 3,140 m (10,301 ft), this scenic mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas. Stop to admire the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a cluster of 108 stupas built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers.
Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten: This intricately designed, three-storey lhakhang was built to ward off negative forces and protect Bhutan. A short hike rewards you with panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and serene surroundings.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: Perched on a ridge, this nunnery houses a 4.2 m (14 ft) Avalokiteshvara statue and other sacred deities. It is both a religious and vocational training centre, providing skills like tailoring, embroidery, and statue-making for nuns.
Blessing ceremony: Experience a Tshewang Blessing Ceremony for personal empowerment and well-being. Participate in this 30-minute spiritual ritual, lighting butter lamps to offer prayers for health and wish fulfilment.
Punakha Dzong: Built in 1637, this majestic dzong is the winter home of Bhutan’s monastic body and a key historic site. Known for hosting royal events and crowned by jacaranda blooms in spring, it offers striking views of Bhutanese architecture.
Visit to Wokuna Community Primary School: A heartwarming visit just 15 minutes from the lodge to engage with local students and explore a school that is a vibrant part of the community andBeyond supports. Witness the positive impact of contributions on the students and staff while connecting with the local community.
Giligang hike: Embark on a 3 to 4-hour hike from Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten to Giligang Temple, with stunning views of Punakha Valley, rice paddies, and forests. The trail ends at Changyul Bridge near Punakha Dzong, where you are picked up.
Ara making in Bali Village: Walk or cycle to Bali Village and learn to make Ara, a traditional rice wine, with Aum Tshewang Pem. Discover local agricultural practices and the role of Ara in Bhutanese social functions while immersing yourself in village life.
Archery and darts: Learn the art of Bhutanese archery and darts with traditional bamboo equipment at the lodge. Guided by local experts, this activity offers a fun way to engage with Bhutanese traditions and create unforgettable memories.
Day 5 and 6
Gangtey
After breakfast, your guide will drive you to Gangtey, a picturesque 3-hour journey. On your way out of Punakha, stop at Lobesa for a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang.
Upon arrival in Gangtey, check in at the lodge and unwind over lunch. The rest of the day will be at a relaxed pace to help you acclimatise. You’ll spend the next two nights here, with an incredible opportunity to explore:
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Chimi Lhakhang: Built in 1499 and blessed by the “Divine Madman” Drukpa Kunley, this temple is famed as the Temple of Fertility. A 30-minute walk through scenic fields leads to this sacred site, where locals seek blessings for fertility and newborn naming.
Gangtey Goemba: Perched on a forested hill, this 17th-century monastery overlooks the stunning Phobjikha Valley. Founded by Pema Thinley, a descendant of Pema Lingpa, it remains a sacred seat of the Nyingma tradition.
Gangtey Nature Trail: A gentle 2-hour, 4.6 km (2.9 mi) hike from the Goemba takes you through moss-draped forests, villages, and streams. It ends with panoramic views of the Phobjikha Valley and the black-necked crane roosting grounds.
Evening prayer and meditation at Shedra: Join over 300 student monks at the Kuenzang Chholing Shedra for their serene evening prayers. This spiritual experience offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s monastic life and traditions.
Black-necked Crane Education Centre (Off-season): Learn about the endangered, black-necked cranes, revered in Bhutanese culture, at this informative centre. While sightings are rare off-season, visitors can view rescued cranes and watch a short educational documentary.
Woodshed dinner: A short step below the main lodge sits a cosy and traditional woodshed, with sweeping views over the valley. Exclusive and private, it is the perfect space for an intimate and highly personalised dining experience.
Day 7 to 9
Paro
Today, after breakfast, you will check out from the lodge and be chauffeured to Paro, a beautiful five-hour drive.
Upon arrival, you will check in, have lunch, and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You will spend the next three nights here, with the incredible opportunity to explore:
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Ta Dzong (National Museum): Originally a 17th-century watchtower, Ta Dzong has served as Bhutan’s National Museum since 1967. Its circular structure houses a captivating collection of art, relics, thangka paintings, natural history, and Bhutan’s iconic postage stamps.
Farmhouse experience: Explore Paro Valley’s charming, traditional farmhouses adorned with vibrant Bhutanese architecture. A visit offers an authentic glimpse into rural Bhutanese life and local farming traditions.
Create a partial mandala with guidance: A mandala is a sacred geometric symbol, typically within a circular frame. They can be painted on cloth or created with coloured sand or rice on the ground. In Buddhist tradition they are used to focus the mind during meditations. It can represent a spiritual journey to the inner core through the outer layers. Witness skilled monks with many years of training create sand mandalas and learn about their significance.
Taktsang Monastery: Perched dramatically at 2,950 m (9,678 ft), this sacred “Tiger’s Nest” monastery is accessible via a rewarding 4-hour trek. Surrounded by pine forests and prayer flags, it’s where Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on a tigress to meditate.
OPTIONAL helicopter tour: One morning, embark on a breathtaking helicopter tour over Paro Valley, offering stunning views of the picturesque landscape and the majestic Mt Jomolhari.
Day 10 | Departure
Paro
Today, after checking out from the hotel, you will be chauffeured to Paro International Airport to board your outbound flight.
Safe travels and farewell, with fond memories of Bhutan.
Rates
Please keep in mind that this tour can be tailormade by speaking to one of our Travel Specialists.
What's included
- Accommodation in one double/ twin room in hotels as mentioned in the QUOTE.
- All transfers as mentioned in a private vehicle, and sightseeing.
- Sightseeing tour will be provided as per the itinerary with the English-speaking Bhutanese Guide and in a private Vehicle.
- All entrance and monuments fees mentioned in the itinerary.
- SDF for 09 nights and Visa fees for Bhutan only.
- All current taxes as on date – subject to change as per hotel/airline/Government policy.
- Special inclusions
- 01 Blessing ceremony for 2 guests at the nunnery in Punakha.
- 01 Ara making experience in Punakha 01 Evening prayer and meditation session at the Gangtey Shedra.
- 01 Woodshed dining experience for 2 guests at Gangtey Lodge.
- 01 Mandala making session for 2 guests at Paro.
What's not included
- Any Airfare
- Helicopter airfare (provided as a supplement)
- Tipping to guides and drivers.
- Any Insurance and rescue of any form.
- Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides/riots and events beyond our control.
- Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost.
- Any international air fare/airport taxes not mentioned above
- Hotel surcharges during festival period/ Christmas & New Years Eve
- Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff.
- Items of personal nature like tips, laundry, phone calls etc.
- Any video/still camera fee to the monuments and places of visit
- Any other item not explicitly mentioned under price includes.
- Any airfare for domestic flights other than the quoted details.
- Any cost of the meals other than the one indicated in room meal plan.
- Sightseeing and excursions other than those specified.
Conditions
Rates on the website are quoted per person sharing Rates on the attached itinerary are quoted for two guests sharingStay here on this journey
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