We’ve just returned from a remarkable 12 days in Bhutan and couldn’t recommend it more highly. This is some feedback from Sophie and me.
The whole thing went brilliantly from start to finish. We have some appreciation for the challenges of operating in developing countries, and so very much respect what went into delivering the outstanding service. We were continually delighted. Our expectations were well and truly exceeded.
The core trekking support team of Sam, Norbu, and Sigay was genuinely outstanding. They worked tirelessly and delivered incredible meals and services for us, always with a bright smile. They were 10/10.
The guide, Sonam, was good - capable, organised, calm and helpful. He dealt with the two mini crises extremely well - when one guest had to be evacuated and the 2nd set of ponies was very late. His one area for improvement is his communication. This would be three things: (i) English pronunciation, (ii) in talking to our group, he nearly always directed his gaze and speech to me, the only male in the group, to the exclusion of the women, and (iii) he could be more proactive and forthcoming with information. He will go from 8/10 to 10/10 if he can improve his communication.
There was a small misunderstanding about the tipping. From the WEx materials and common sense, we had assumed the tips would be given at the end of the trip. Sonam asked us for a tip for the first set of horsemen when they finished their work mid-trip, and he indicated that the team tip fund would usually be provided at the start. That didn’t seem consistent with the WEx materials, and we had no way to know how much horsemen should be tipped. Also, the WEx materials say “if” you have a guide or drivers, which is odd given that this trip had both. Our sense from the WEx materials was that there would be two tips: one for the team and one for the guide. We assumed the drivers and horsemen were part of the team. In reality, more than two tips were required, as drivers and horsemen were not considered part of the team. The practice of tipping is foreign to us and sensitive, and WEx would do well to achieve better clarity for all.
The hotels in Paro and Thimpu were both great, and the staff were wonderful.
Thank you again for a truly wonderful adventure. We are already talking about our next one!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
AMAZING!! I have been fortunate enough to have done PLENTY of adventures and treks around the world, but this one was one of the VERY BEST, and i would recommend it to ANYONE!! :)
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Discover the major highlights and exhilarating attractions of one of the most magical and mysterious destinations on Earth on this tour of Bhutan! Begin your journey in Paro, where you will visit the local market and see the historic Dzong Fortress. Explore the Haa Valley before you depart for Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Here you will learn about traditional Thangka painting and visit Sangaygang for breathtaking views of the Thimpu Valley. Discover the Institute for Zorig Chosum where you will learn about traditional Thangka painting and visit the Folk Heritage Museum to learn about rural Bhutanese life. Continue your journey to Punakha and hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a breathtaking journey through rice paddies and the Yuwakha Village. Head to Jakar and visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong. In this fascinating city, you will hike through forests of pine, oak, and juniper trees to the Tharpaling Monastery and explore Jambay Lhakhang. Return to Punakha for a hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten and uncover magnificent views of the valley. Next, continue your tour to Paro and visit the Taktshang Monastery or the "Tiger's Nest", a significant pilgrimage destination and sacred place, for your final destination on this tour of Bhutan.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
A wonderful country of the most beautiful art designed buildings with the most beautifully and colourful dressed people who are most kind, accepting and helful
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
The Nepal and Bhutan Tour has been designed to combine the most exciting highlights from both of the countries and give a thorough overview of the life and nature in this fascinating part of the world.
The tour starts off in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal and the capital of Nepal’s culture, religion and architecture. The vibrant history of this mystical and ancient place has left its mark in the distinctive architecture that ornaments the city. The Himalayan giants are visible from the city itself and combine with the ancient architecture for spectacular views. We'll take you to the edge of the Kathmandu valley to the famous tourist destination of Nagarkot Village, where you will get an even more spectacular view of the Himalayan range.
Nepal is much more than just the Himalayas. We'll also take you to the lakeside town of Pokhara to explore Nepal from a completely different angle. Here, you will be able to relax and enjoy chilled drinks while admiring the reflection of the Himalayas in the crystal clear Phewa lake.
After Pokhara, the journey continues to Bhutan – a small kingdom completely spread out on the foothills of the Himalayas. Bhutan will amaze you with its natural beauty and peculiar secluded culture that has managed to survive the modern world thanks to the country’s seclusion. This is one of Bhutan’s biggest charms. We'll make sure that you visit all the must-see locations including the capital Thimpu.
The journey will continue to Punakha and back Paro for the Taktsang Monastery hike. All of these places reflect a history and culture unimaginable for the foreign visitor, perfectly combined with the mesmerizing Himalayan setting.
We are eager and happy to take you along on our journey and help you discover just how magical this region of the world can be!
An excellent trip with a great Bhutanese tour leader and driver. Such a beautiful and peaceful country and a big contrast to hectic, noisy and dirty Kathmandu. A fairly relaxed tour with highlights of the black crane festival, Tiger’s Nest monastery, Punakha and more. Generally good hotels except in Phobjika Valley, which had power cuts, cold rooms and poor food. Food in Bhutan was a bit monotonous- generally very similar buffets. Excellent guide and driver. Recommended.
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Guest House
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Paro, Punakha, Paro D
Kathmandu, Paro, Punakha, Paro Dzong, Gangtey Valley, Thimphu
This 12-day adventure immerses you in the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Nepal and Bhutan. Your journey begins in Kathmandu, where you'll explore the bustling streets of Thamel by rickshaw, wander through the historic Durbar Square, and marvel at the ancient Swayambhunath Stupa, affectionately known as the "monkey temple". From there, you'll take a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan.
In Bhutan, you'll delve into centuries-old traditions and explore majestic fortresses known as dzongs. You'll witness the art of incense making, hike to sacred temples nestled in breathtaking valleys, and even experience the unique hospitality of a Bhutanese homestay. A highlight of your trip will be the challenging but rewarding hike to Taktsang Monastery, the iconic Tiger's Nest clinging to a sheer cliff face. This journey offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and spiritual exploration.
Returning to Nepal, you'll witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot, a picturesque village in the Kathmandu Valley. You'll then delve into the ancient city of Bhaktapur, with its well-preserved temples and traditional crafts, and even try your hand at pottery. The tour culminates with visits to significant religious sites in Kathmandu – the Hindu temple of Pasupatinath and the Buddhist Boudhanath stupa – offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Nepal. This itinerary promises an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant colors, ancient traditions, and breathtaking scenery.
For those looking for a longer adventure, featuring India, please see our Temples, Dzongs and Taj Tour
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay
Age Range
8-75 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Paro, Doch
Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Paro, Dochu La Pass, Gangtey Valley, Thimphu, Taktshang
Join us on this memorable twelve-day tour that will stay with you for a lifetime!. Explore Bhutan's ancient monasteries and shrines of historical and archaeological interests in the heartland of three major towns of the Dragon Kingdom; Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Hike across the spectacular mountain scenery of Tiger's Nest, a backdrop to pristine forests and picturesque valleys and discover Ganteng Monastery in Gangtey.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
6-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang
Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey Gonpa
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