DAY BY DAY PLAN
Itinerary
This is a sample route. The final journey can be adjusted based on your flight dates, hotel preference, walking level, and travel style.
Days 1–2: Thimphu and the Philosophy of Happiness
Begin your journey in Thimphu, Bhutan’s peaceful capital. Visit Buddha Dordenma, explore local markets, museums, temples, and cultural landmarks, and gain an introduction to Bhutanese life, values, and the country’s unique approach to happiness.
The second day can include a visit to a local creative or community organisation, a monastery overlooking the valley, or a cultural learning experience that connects you with Bhutanese art, youth development, and spiritual life.
Days 3–4: Punakha, Monastic Life, and Riverside Valleys
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing the beautiful Dochula Pass. Enjoy mountain views, prayer flags, and a scenic journey into one of Bhutan’s most fertile and peaceful valleys.
In Punakha, visit sacred sites such as Chimi Lhakhang, explore Punakha Dzong, and take a gentle hike to Khamsum Chorten. The experience can also include meaningful time with local monastic communities and opportunities to support or learn about care-based initiatives in the valley.
Days 5–6: Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley
Continue to Gangtey, a quiet valley known for its open landscapes, monasteries, and deep spiritual atmosphere. Visit Gangtey Goemba and learn about the valley’s religious traditions, meditation practices, and community life.
The following day can include a visit to a local school or community project in Phobjikha Valley. Travellers may learn about conservation, education, and local development while experiencing one of Bhutan’s most serene natural landscapes.
Days 7–8: Bumthang, Sacred Sites, and Cultural Preservation
Journey to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland. Along the way, visit important historic landmarks, dzongs, palaces, temples, and traditional villages connected to Bhutan’s royal and religious history.
In Bumthang, explore sacred temples and remote spiritual sites. Depending on the programme, travellers may engage in meaningful activities connected to cultural preservation, monastery support, education, or local heritage.
Days 9–10: Bumthang Communities and Journey to Paro
Spend time discovering Bumthang’s farming communities, weaving traditions, herbal tea cultivation, beekeeping, and rural livelihoods. This part of the journey offers a closer look at Bhutan’s local economy and the skills that support village life.
Later, continue to Paro and settle into the final part of the journey. Visit the National Museum and Paro Dzong, and enjoy the calm beauty of one of Bhutan’s most iconic valleys.
Days 11–12: Paro, Community Experiences, and Tiger’s Nest
In Paro, choose from meaningful community-based experiences such as rural support initiatives, school-related programmes, farming projects, or local development activities.
On the final full day, hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous spiritual landmark. The journey ends with a special farewell experience, offering time to reflect on the people, places, and values encountered throughout the trip.
Departure Day: Farewell Bhutan
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Depart Bhutan with memories of luxury lodge stays, sacred landscapes, cultural learning, community connection, and a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s pursuit of happiness.
INCLUDED
What is Included?
- Luxury accommodation at selected Amankora lodges
- Private guided journey through selected Bhutanese valleys
- English-speaking guide, private driver, and vehicle
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Daily cultural excursions and sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary
- All in-house meals at selected lodges
- Picnic meals during selected travel days
- Selected in-house beverages
- Community-based and sustainable travel experiences
- Guided visits to monasteries, dzongs, museums, markets, and local landmarks
- Activities, hikes, and cultural visits as stated in the itinerary
- Touring permits and monument access passes
- Personalised itinerary planning support
- Ground handling and concierge assistance
- Flight reservation support
- Bhutan visa processing assistance
- Laundry service
- One 60-minute holistic massage per person for selected longer journeys
- Pre-trip and on-ground travel support