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
The kingdom of Bhutan in the Himalayas sits between two spiritual hubs – Tibet and India – and is one of Asia’s best-kept secrets. On this active adventure, you’ll discover there is no better way to explore it than on foot as you hike through country that’s full of protected forest, so it absorbs more carbon than it uses. Feel closer to enlightenment as you hike along the restored Trans Bhutan Trail which will immerse you in the past, present and future. Uncover Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage on a journey that explores forested valleys, fortified monasteries and sacred mountains on your own two feet and discover the beauty of its people, landscape and culture with a local leader who will help you unlock its secrets.
AdventureTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This was the best trip I have taken in my 50 years of existence on this planet. And I have travelled to a lot of places. The time to visit Bhutan is now, before it is overrun by tourists and Gadventues does an amazing job of making your visit one to remember.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Our trip to Bhutan in April 2024, was a great success. Our guide, Kinzang and his crew looked after our group of 4 very well. The campsites are spacious and equipment excellent, even a hot water bottle at night when needed. During our walk we only saw 2 other trekkers. The Bhutanese people are very friendly. The scenery is stunning, with its snow covered mountains, many colourful flowering rhododendrons and the architecture very unique, especially the Dzongs. The hot springs to soak in was a real treat at the end of our trek.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel, Resort, Tent, Guest House
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paro, Chebisa, Laya, Gasa Villag
Paro, Chebisa, Laya, Gasa Village, Punakha, Taktsang, Jangothang, Lingzhi
Bhutan is the last of the Himalayan kingdoms. Nestled between China and India, the country has found a perfect balance between preserving its rich tradition and its march towards sustainable development to create what could be considered a modern Shangri-la. Our week-long tour will take you across Bhutan to see this inspiring mix of culture, nature and modernity.
Our Last Shangri-la Tour begins with sightseeing in the country’s capital, Thimphu, where we visit landmarks such as the Memorial Chhorten, mini- zoo, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, folk heritage museum and the majestic Tashichho Dzong.
Next, we travel to Punakha via Dochu La pass (3,100 m) and visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple along the way. We will also visit the Punakha Dzong and explore the amazing Gangtey village before heading to Paro.
In the beautiful Paro valley, we visit Rinpung Dzong and Kichu Lhakhang temple. Our tour ends with a hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which is a perfect way to end one's journey in the last Shangri-La.
Take your place at the famed mask dance performances at the Thimphu Tshechu Festival, whilst discovering the best of Bhutan. Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery, see the world's biggest Buddha Dordenma statue and explore the Punakha Valley before
sitting back to watch the unique and colourful displays of traditional culture performed at the city's most popular event.
Festivals and events
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paro, Punakha, Thimphu
Paro, Punakha, Thimphu
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The kingdom of Bhutan is blessed with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and distinct history, making it a perfect holiday destination for discerning travelers like yourself.
In this eight-day tour of the 'Land of the Dragon Thunder,' you will discover the mysterious charm and beauty of this tiny Himalayan nation. The trip focuses the sites and destinations in western and central Bhutan, visiting various known and unknown sites.
Begin in the capital, Thimphu, exploring iconic landmarks such as Tashichho Dzong and the National Memorial Chorten. Next, travel to Punakha, where the majestic Punakha Dzong and revered Chimi Lhakhang await. Then, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Bumthang, a valley adorned with ancient monasteries like Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang. Discover the scenic beauty of Gangtey Valley, a sanctuary for endangered black-necked cranes, before concluding the journey in Paro. Here, hike to the awe-inspiring Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff.
Throughout the tour, immerse yourself in Bhutan's rich cultural heritage, interact with friendly locals, and witness vibrant festivals.
See the itinerary section for more details.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-73 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Bumthang
Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Bumthang, Gangtey Valley, Taktsang
Get a glimpse of one of the most breathtaking and mysterious destinations on Earth on tour of Bhutan. Begin your trip in Paro, a magnificent city, home to sacred sites, ancient monasteries, and some of the most breathtaking views in the country. Continue your journey to Thimphu to discover the National Library, a building constructed in the traditional Bhutanese style with golden manuscripts in the heart of the country. Uncover views of the Thimpu Valley before you travel to Punakha, the ancient capital with gorgeous views of the Eastern Himalayas. Explore Paro for your final stop on this tour of Bhutan, where you will hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten and visit the Punakha Dzong.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Bhutan does things differently. This tiny Himalayan kingdom puts its environment, culture and wellbeing ahead of economics. Use Gross National Happiness (GNH) as its main development indicator instead of GDP. Bhutan is the world's only carbon-negative country, absorbing more carbon than it creates and maintaining at least 60% forest cover. Having only been open to visitors for over 50 years, isolated from the world, Bhutan well protected its unique culture and ancient traditions.
In this 9-day Bhutan Group Tour, you will traverse the entirety of Western Bhutan, including the three main highlights of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and two off-the-beaten valleys, Phobjikha and Haa Valley. Bhutan has a lot of stories to tell, and a local guide will help you uncover the country's rich cultural heritage as you visit ancient dzongs, chortens, and monasteries like Punakha Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, Kyichu Lhakhang.
When in Bhutan, do as the Bhutanese do. Wear traditional Bhutanese attire, visit local weekend markets, and taste local delicacies like red rice and chili dishes, try your hand at archery. Also, meet local artisans and observe their traditional handicrafts. Drive through the mountain pass while admiring the sacred mountain peaks. Take a hike in the emerald-green Phobjikha and Haa valleys that preserves its pristine nature.
On this journye, you will also have the opportunity to visit the legendary Tiger's Nest monastery, and find out why the people of Bhutan are considered some of the happiest on Earth.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Join us on this week-long, guided trek through the Druk Path, an ancient trading route over high mountain passes connecting Paro and Thimphu valleys. This memorable walking odyssey will take you through blue pine forests and past rhododendrons and juniper-filled landscapes.
Even though you will be hiking at elevations of between 2,400 m to 4,200 m, the actual trekking is relatively easy. You will get the chance to enjoy magnificent views of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in the world not to have been summited, all along the way, lakes, and beautiful flora .
This trek is one of the most sold packages.