Bhutan 2 2025: Trip Itinerary

Explore Bhutan - Land of the Thunder Dragon, December 18 - 31, 2025

Please keep in mind that circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, road conditions, or local events, may require us to alter this itinerary. We will do our best to provide a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience in keeping with the essence of its concept. Included meals shown by B - breakfast, L - lunch, D - dinner.

A picture paints a thousands words. Watch this short video to understand why Bhutan is so special.

Day 1 Thursday December 18, 2025 Arrive in Paro, transfer to Thimphu

Our trip begins with a morning flight from Bangkok, Thailand to Paro, Bhutan. Flying into Paro, the view out of the left hand side of the airplane, on a clear day, is of the stunning Himalayan Mountains and Everest. Upon arrival we transfer to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. After getting settled in our hotel, we have our trip orientation meeting followed by dinner. Pending interest and energy, there is the option after dinner to take a taxi into town for a walk through Thimphu's main streets to help orient us, ending at the acclaimed Clock Tower Square. Overnight - Thimphu 3 nights. L D

Day 2 Friday December 19 Takin Nature Park and Wangditse Hike

We begin our day with a visit to the Takin Nature Park to see the takins, the national animal of Bhutan. The takin looks like a cross between a goat and an antelope. Adorned with prayer flags, the leisurely 1 hour Wangditse hike starts from Sangeygang and ends at Dechen Phodrang Monastery and offers excellent views of Thimphu city. In the afternoon, we visit an interactive museum that offers an experiential glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. Starting with a shot of local arra (rice liquor) we step into a recreated village setting. We can try on traditional attire, test our skills in archery and listen to Bhutanese women singing as they demonstrate the art of building houses with rammed earth. Overnight - Thimphu B L D

Day 3 Saturday December 20 Market Day, Buddha Dordenma

We take a shuttle to the Buddha Dordenma, symbolizing compassion and commanding attention from its elevated perch above the city. This massive bronze and gilded statute of Shakyamuni Buddha at 177 feet (54 m) tall, is one of the largest in the world. From here it is a relaxed 2-3 hour walk down to a local restaurant for a delicious Bhutanese lunch. Saturday is market day and the weekend market is in full swing with locals from Punakha and Wangdue selling their fresh vegetables and handmade goods. This is the heart of Bhutan's everyday life. At the National Archery Ground we can watch skilled archers take their shots at targets 460 feet away (140m). In Bhutan, archery is more than a sport, it's a proud tradition and a big part of the culture. Overnight - Thimphu B L D

Day 4 Sunday December 21 DochuLa

On our 2 hour drive to Punakha, we travel over DochuLa, a high pass at 10,171 feet (3100m) of elevation. Here we find 108 stupas (memorial structures.) 108 is a mystical number in Buddhism. After the pass we stop for lunch and take a short walk across rice paddies and through a small village to reach Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of the Divine Madman. We'll learn about him and the unique phallus culture associated with this temple and its playful significance. Those who wish can get a fertility blessing from the monk. Overnight - Punakha 2 nights B L D

Day 5 Monday December 22 Punakha

We'll start today with a visit to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most beautiful former strongholds. A 17th-century fortress, it is situated at the meeting point of two rivers, with hills rising majestically behind, this historic monument commands attention. Following the dzong, we take a 2 hour hike out and back to the Queen's Temple, crossing a suspension bridge near Yebisa Village. It's a short hike, but parts are steep. We'll be rewarded for our efforts with breathtaking views of the Mo Chhu River valley, terraced fields, and surrounding mountains. This evening we join evening prayers at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, a college for training nuns. A beautiful and peaceful temple complex housing a 14 foot bronze sculpture of Avalokiteshvara, "lord who looks down with compassion". He is a bodhisattva, or enlightened being, who has postponed becoming a buddha to help others. Overnight - Punakha B L D

Day 6 Tuesday December 23 Phobjikha

Today's 2 hour journey unfolds over Pele Pass, leading to Phobjikha Valley. This quiet glacial valley at an elevation of 9,500 feet (2895m), is a conservation area that serves as the winter haven for the magnificent black-necked cranes. En-route we visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong originally built in 1637 by Zhabrung Ngawang Namgyal, it sits on a hill shaped like a sleeping elephant. Located between the Punatshang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, it offers stunning views of the valley. Though a fire destroyed the dzong in 2012, it has been beautifully rebuilt and is now one of Bhutan's most impressive landmarks. Upon our arrival in the Phobjikha Valley, an optional experience awaits at Aum Sonam's home: a traditional hot-stone bath (additional cost, not included). Locally sourced stones, heated in wood fires, are placed in wooden tubs to warm the water. Residents believe that this method releases beneficial minerals into the water, imparting healing properties. For those interested, there is an opportunity to assist in preparing a delightful Bhutanese dinner, creating a communal atmosphere that celebrates local cuisine. Alternatively, venture down into the crane valley for a chance to observe these elegant birds. While not all may have arrived, glimpsing even one or two can offer a moment of reflection amid the breathtaking landscape. Overnight - Phobjikha 2 nights B L D

“What I love is how seamless everything is. You walk through a forest and come out in a village; and there’s no difference, no division. You aren’t in nature one minute and in civilization the next. The houses are made out of mud and stone and wood, drawn from the land around. Nothing stands out, nothing jars.” ―Jamie Zeppa

Day 7 Wednesday December 24 Gangtey Monastery & Nature Trail

Established in 1613, Gangtey Monastery is one of the oldest in Bhutan and sits atop a small hill offering magnificent views of the Phobjikha Valley. The black-necked-crane are said to circle the monastery 3 times upon their arrival in the valley and will do the same before departing for their return journey to Tibet. After a visit to the monastery, we take a gentle walk in the hope of observing these beautiful, graceful birds in their natural habitat. Overnight - Phobjikha B L D

Day 8 Thursday December 25 Bumthang

We head eastward on our three hour drive to Chamkhar located in the Bumthang region. Bumthang means Beautiful Field, and is a region composed of four valleys, Tang, Choekhor, Ura, and Chhume. It is considered to be the cultural heart of Bhutan. After lunch we visit the Bathpalathang Cheese Factory to learn about local dairy-making traditions and tour the facility, including having samples of the unique Swiss style Bhutanese cheese. After that, it's on to the Panda Beer Brewery, the first Bhutanese brewery, for an introduction to Bhutanese craft beer and more samples of local products. We end the day exploring the vibrant market town of Chamkhar. Overnight - Bumthang 3 nights B L D

Day 9 Friday December 26 Tang Valley

We take a two hour drive through the peaceful Tang Valley, moving gradually up through meadows of grazing sheep and cattle. Our destination is Pema Choling Nunnery, home to a small, dedicated community of Buddhist nuns. Just north of the nunnery is Ogyen Choling Palace, owned by Ashi Kuenzang Choden, it is now a residence and museum offering insights into medieval life in central Bhutan. After our visit at the manor, we proceed to Mebar Tsho, the mystical Burning Lake, a site rich in cultural meaning and local stories before returning to our lodging for the night. Overnight - Bumthang B L D

Day 10 Saturday December 27 Trongsa Festival

Today we participate in the Trongsa Festival (drive ~ 2hrs 30 mins). A lively one-day celebration with colorful mask dancers, traditional performances and blessings from the monks. Trongsa Tshechu (festival) celebrates Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) and his teachings. He is respected as a fully enlightened being and his wisdom guides the people of Bhutan on their spiritual journey. During the festival, sacred mask dances are performed honoring his life and deeds. These dances help deepen the Buddhist faith and understanding of Guru Rinpoche's teachings, while also educating and inspiring the people who take part in the celebration. On our return journey to Bumthang, our first rest stop is at Zhuney village, famous for its yathra weaving. We can watch the weavers at work and, of course, buy some products if so moved. Overnight - Bumthang B L D

Day 11 Sunday December 28 Return to Paro

In the morning, we take a scenic 30 minute flight over the mountains to return to Paro. After getting settled in our hotel and enjoying lunch, the afternoon is free to explore and wander on your own through the delightful town of Paro, a harmonious blend of old-world farms and villages with the country's only international airport. Overnight - Paro 3 nights B L D

Day 12 Monday December 29 Zuri Dzong, Paro Museum

This morning we take a ~90 minute walk to Zuri Dzong with a stunning birds-eye views of Paro Valley. This ancient fortress built in 1352 is a five-story building protected by double walls. As Bhutan's oldest Dzong, it houses a sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century.

Next we walk to the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in an old watchtower above Paro Dzong. The museum provides insight into Bhutan's history, art, and traditions. Overnight - Paro B L D

The way the arrow is targeted is more essential than the way it is shot; the way you listen is more essential than the way you talk. –Bhutanese proverb

Day 13 Tuesday December 30 Taktsang Goempa

No visit to Bhutan feels complete without the iconic Taktsang Goempa, known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This remarkable site clings dramatically to a cliff, sparking wonder about its origins. Legend has it that a tiger once flew here, making it the perfect location for this sacred space. We’ll start our day early to beat the crowds. The trail winds upward, with some steep sections and thrilling drop-offs along the way. For those who prefer, horses can carry you partway up (cost not included) although they can’t bring you back down. Even if hiking isn’t your usual activity, this climb is achievable for most. We’ll take our time to enjoy the views and the surrounding beauty. Upon reaching the monastery, explore its rich history and unique architecture before enjoying a leisurely lunch with spectacular sights all around. After lunch, we descend to the parking lot and return to Paro. We can visit the laid back small town and its shops for a chance to get souvenirs of our adventurers in Bhutan. Overnight - Paro B L D

Day 14 Wednesday December 31 Farewell Bhutan

Our trip ends after breakfast with a transfer to the Paro Airport. If the flight departs after lunch time, then lunch will be included, otherwise not. B

As the flight departs, carry the spirit of Bhutan in your heart - the peace and beauty experienced. Until the next adventure, safe travels.

Note: Flights departing Bangkok must be booked no earlier than the following day (January 1, 2026) to allow for unforeseen delays in arriving back in Bangkok, or changes in flight schedules leaving Paro.

The trip leader will provide 4 trip bulletins prior to departure with more detailed and specific information to help you prepare for your adventure.

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Trip Dates December 18 - 31, 2025 | 14 days

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