Premium Bhutan Tour by Intrepid Travel

9 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

12 peopleMaximum group size

15 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Thimphu, Bhutan

Ends

Paro, Bhutan

Highlights

See Bhutan through the eyes of a local as you travel with a leader who will bring the country’s unique history, legends and traditions to life.

Get acquainted with rare and fascinating wildlife in the breathtaking Phobjika valley, including a visit to a protection and information centre for black-necked cranes – a Premium Exclusive Experience.

Climb to the teetering monastery of Taktsang (the Tiger's Nest) 900 m above Paro’s valley floor and take in once-in-a-lifetime views.

Visit the important monastery of Gangte Goemba during an Exclusive Experience and learn about two subjects at heart of Bhutanese culture – Buddhism and happiness.

Unwind in your Feature Stay accommodation, with views of the glorious surrounding valley, swimming pool and spa and wellness centre.

Itinerary

Step into the mystical kingdom of Bhutan on this 9-day "Premium Bhutan" tour, which winds through Paro, Phobjikha, and Thimphu. Traverse forested valleys, visit fortress-monasteries, and climb to the legendary Tiger’s Nest—one of the Himalayas’ most iconic sights. Learn about black-necked crane conservation in Phobjikha and immerse yourself in vibrant Bhutanese traditions with the help of an expert local leader. With a moderate activity level, this trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate both cultural immersion and scenic hikes. The unique selling point? Access to Bhutan’s untouched natural and spiritual heritage, ensuring your journey is as enriching as it is awe-inspiring.

day 1 - Paro - Thimphu

Jen Pa Leg Sho! Welcome to Bhutan. When you arrive at the Paro airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to Thimphu (2400 m) – Bhutan’s capital city. After settling in, meet your small group and local leader for a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Join your leader for an orientation walk to get acquainted with Thimphu’s main street and visit the National Memorial Chorten – a stupa built in honour of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. After the meeting, join your group and leader for a welcome dinner at a restaurant that’s a common favourite with the locals. Learn about the rich history of Bhutanese cuisine as you tuck into a traditional feast, including seasonal vegetables and the country’s signature dish – red rice with tasty chilli cheese. You may like to try some Bhutanese peach wine or some Ara, the national spirit, served neat and hot.

included:Thimphu - Welcome dinner, Thimphu - Complimentary Arrival Transfer

accommodation:Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Feature Stay)

meals:1 Dinner

day 2 - Thimphu

After breakfast, you’ll explore Thimphu. Stop off at Buddha point, named after its giant gilded Buddha statue, and take in panoramic views of the city. Take a short hike through pine trees where your leader will help you spot takin (a goat-antelope type creature) – the national animal of Bhutan. Pass by the fortress and monastery of Tashichho Dzong, sitting on the banks of the Thimphu Chhu River. After lunch, your leader will weave together the cultural heritage of Bhutan during visits to the National Textile Museum, Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum (where you can try your hand at the national sport of archery), and the Voluntary Artists School in Thimphu – an institution where young people receive formal education in the art of traditional painting, sculpture and woodcarving. Thimphu has an excellent range of handicrafts, most notably woven cloth, wooden masks, thangkas, silverware, jewellery and bamboo crafts from all over Bhutan.

included:Thimphu - National Library, Thimphu - National Textile Museum, Thimphu - Takin Conservation Park, Thimphu - Voluntary Artists School, Thimphu - Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu - Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum

accommodation:Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Feature Stay)