Premium Bhutan

(18 reviews)

From:

CAD $7155

9 Days

Best Rate: Guarantee

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Discover a land of mysticism and proud tradition on this nine-day Premium adventure through the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan.

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Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 18 Jan 2027

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Experience Overview

Discover a land of mysticism and proud tradition on this nine-day Premium adventure through the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. An experienced local leader will help you uncover Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage as you wind through forested valleys, fortified monasteries and sacred mountains. Discover the compelling history of Thimphu, hike the valleys of Punakha, learn about black-necked cranes in Phobjikha and climb to the legendary Tiger’s Nest in Paro. Be immersed in Tibetan Buddhist traditions when you join the monks at Gangtey Goemba Monastery for a special prayer flag blessing ceremony. A journey through the astonishing beauty of the people, landscape and culture of Bhutan will leave your happiness levels off the scale.

Highlights

Look out over the Phobjikha Valley from your deluxe tent at your Feature Stay. Decorated in traditional Bhutanese style, this elevated tent resort is fitted with modern amenities so that you can sleep surrounded by nature, in comfort.
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 Phobjikha Valley during a visit to a protection and information centre for black-necked cranes – an Exclusive Experience.
Climb to the teetering monastery of Paro Taktsang (the Tiger's Nest) 900 m above the Paro Valley floor and take in once-in-a-lifetime views.
Be part of a special prayer flag blessing ceremony led by the monks at Gangtey Goemba Monastery. You’ll keep one of the flags to display at home as a symbol of peace and good fortune.

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Trip Details

Product Code: 2156

Tour Type: Small Group

Accommodation: Unknown

Transport: Private vehicle

Guide Language: English

Travel Styles: Explorer, Budget

Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel

Supplier Code: HNPB

Starts: Thimphu, Bhutan

Finishes: Paro, Bhutan

Duration: 9 days

Departures: Not Guaranteed

Physical Rating: Average

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (7), Dinner (8)
Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights), Paro Feature Stay (2 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $7155 ($795 /day)

Itinerary

Day 1: Thimphu

Jen Pa Leg Sho! Welcome to Bhutan. When you arrive at Paro Airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to Thimphu (2400 m) – Bhutan’s capital city. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After the meeting, 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. Later, join your group and leader for a welcome dinner at a restaurant that’s popular with the locals. Learn about the rich history of Bhutanese cuisine as you tuck into a traditional feast of seasonal vegetables and ema datshi, 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 Activities:

Thimphu - Welcome dinner
Thimphu - Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Thimphu

After breakfast, you’ll explore Thimphu. Stop 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 (hoofed mammals resembling goats and antelopes) – 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 Studio in Thimphu – an institution where young people receive formal education in the arts 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 Activities:

Thimphu - National Library
Thimphu - National Textile Museum
Thimphu - Takin Conservation Park
Thimphu - Voluntary Artists School
Thimphu - Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point)
Thimphu - Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Phobjikha

This morning, visit Desho Paper Factory to see a traditional method of making paper by hand. Next, travel to the fortified monastery of Simtokha Dzong, then follow the winding Dochula Pass (3100 m), marked by more than 100 chortens built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers. Continue through lush forests on the scenic drive to Phobjikha. Here, you’ll find a valley rich with wildlife – keep an eye out for serows (a goat-like animal) and muntjacs. This afternoon, visit Gangtey Goemba – a monastery with magnificent views of the valley. Your guide will provide a local perspective on Buddhism and happiness – the two most important pillars of Bhutanese culture. Here, you’ll take part in an Exclusive Experience – a prayer flag blessing ceremony. In Bhutan, prayer flags are an important symbol of the Buddhist faith. During this special ceremony, the monks of Gangtey Goemba will bless two flags for each traveller – one will be placed near the monastery and you’ll take the other one home as a keepsake symbolising good fortune, peace and prosperity. Spend the next two nights at Gangtey Tent Resort – your Feature Stay. Your deluxe tent offers views of the Phobjikha Valley and is decorated in traditional Bhutanese style.

Included Activities:

Dochula Pass - Druk Wangyal Chortens
Thimphu - Simtokha Dzong
Thimhpu - Desho Paper Factory
Phobjikha - Gangtoe Goemba
Phobjikha - Prayer Flag Blessing Ceremony

Accommodation:

Gangtey Tented Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Phobjikha

Start the day with a visit to the centre of the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) where you’ll learn about the vulnerable, black-necked cranes that fly to Bhutan each winter. The Phobjikha Valley receives more of these visitors than any other part of the country and the RSPN has taken special measures to protect them, as well as 13 other vulnerable species. Learn about the cranes’ habitat and behaviour and use the centre’s spotting scopes to search for cranes in the valley. Wild cranes will only be visible during the winter months, but if you visit outside this period, you may still have the chance to see black-necked cranes that are being rehabilitated in the centre. In the afternoon, join your leader on a gentle hike around the valley and learn about the flora and fauna that call this region home.

Included Activities:

Phobjikha - Valley hiking
Phobjikha - Black Necked Crane Information Center

Accommodation:

Gangtey Tented Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Punakha

Journey to Punakha this morning, stopping at a local village along the way where you’ll take a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang – the Temple of Fertility. Your leader will explain how people from all corners of the country visit the Lhakhang to seek a blessing from Drukpa Kunley, also known as the ‘Divine Madman’. A revered womaniser and drinker, this wandering preacher taught that sexual freedom was at the centre of Truth. On the walk through the village of Sopsokha to the temple, you’ll notice the phallic symbols painted on walls – a symbol of fertility and protection from evil.

Included Activities:

Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang

Accommodation:

Lobesha Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Punakha

Begin the day with a short drive to the base of a hill where you'll begin your hike up to a monastery. In this almost sub-tropical valley, you’ll head out on a hike over a suspension bridge that crosses the Mo Chhu River and passes through paddy fields before following a moderately inclined trail to the Khamsum Yulley Temple. Built by the Queen Mother, the temple is a classic example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions. From the top, you can take in sweeping views across the valley. After lunch, you’ll visit the white-walled, red-roofed Punakha Dzong, the administrative and religious centre and winter retreat of the Je Khenpo – the chief abbot of Bhutan. See the Dzong’s intricately carved woodwork, prayer halls and beautiful religious paintings decorating the walls and doorways. End the day at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Temple and Nunnery, where you’ll arrive in time for evening prayers.

Included Activities:

Punakha - Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Punakha - Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Punakha - Punakha Dzong

Accommodation:

Lobesha Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Paro

This morning, begin the journey to Paro. When you arrive, you’ll have some free time to wander Paro town. In the afternoon, visit Kaja Throm – a local farmers market where you can browse fresh produce and handicrafts and watch as locals go about their shopping – before having dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Paro - Kaja Throm Market Visit

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Paro or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Paro

Balanced 900 m above the valley floor sits Taktsang, or the Tiger’s Nest – a beautiful monastery and Bhutan’s most recognised building. After breakfast, begin a hike through pine forests, passing beneath thousands of brightly coloured prayer flags. Your leader will guide you up into the mountains for a closer view of the temple, sharing the legend of its history along the way. Reach a small teahouse and stop for lunch and refreshments while taking in truly unforgettable views. For those interested, it’s possible to get a closer look at the Tiger’s Nest by hiking another hour each way to reach the temple. Otherwise, you can relax at the teahouse and soak in your surroundings. Back in Paro, immerse yourself in traditional Bhutanese culture as you visit a farmhouse for a home-cooked dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
Paro - Home-cooked dinner

Optional Activities:

Paro - Hot Stone Bath (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Paro or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Paro

After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Please check with your leader about the exact departure time from the hotel. Please note that your leader may not be with you as the group may leave on different flights.

Included Activities:

Paro - Complimentary Departure Transfer

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Reviews

Janine - Traveled, March 2024

Bhutan is an exceptional experience. Everyday an adventure filled with beautiful landscapes, wonderful culture and tradition, breathtaking views and challenging hikes that give you a sense of achievement. An amazing experience.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2024

Ling Khang - Traveled, November 2023

This is a very grounding experience. I felt that I could take time to experience and immerse myself in this trip. The places visited didn’t have many people so you could slow down and be present. I highly recommend this trip for anyone who loves immersing into new cultures and understand more about ‘exotic’ lands. You will leave soothed and calm and may even inspire a change in how you live your life at home.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2023

Hannah - Traveled, November 2023

Bhutan is a wonderful country and the experience exceeded my expectations. Pratap was a knowledgeable guide and the trip was well organised and delivered. Plenty of history, culture and experiences, with the highlight of course being the Tiger's Nest Monastery - this is an absolute must-do!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/19/2023

Crystal - Traveled, November 2023

Beautiful views, everlasting memories, phenomenal architecture. Bhutan.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023

Lindsay - Traveled, October 2023

Intrepid’s Premium Bhutan is excellent. With your guide, you get a very good education about the people and places that make this country so special. One leaves with a different, calmer and gentler mindset. Love that education, value of culture, and love of country are widespread. Feel very grateful to have visited this very special country where indeed Gross National Happiness is in action. L. Frey

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/03/2023

Helen - Traveled, October 2023

An amazingly beautiful country, a great Tour. One of my top favourites. An experience never to be forgotten. Feel totally privileged to have visited Bhutan.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023

Alastair - Traveled, October 2023

Bhutan is very different from any other country I've visited, in a positive way. Plan on at least 7 days to get around the different tourist areas and choose your time of year to fit best with your interests.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023

Kathryn - Traveled, October 2023

What a truly amazing place to visit, beautiful scenery and the most wonderful locals to interact with. Highly recommend the trip and make sure you do the walk to Tigers Nest....it is worth the hike!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023

Marilyn - Traveled, September 2023

Really loved Bhutan, such a beautiful kingdom! The premium Intrepid trip covered all the locations I wanted to visit and the hotels were interesting and comfortable. One of the travel days was quite long but we made a few stops along the way which helped….it was worth it to experience the Phobjika valley. I think being there in the spring time would be especially awesome with all of the flowers starting to bloom. The highlight was the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The hike up was somewhat challenging but very doable and absolutely worth it! It was a rainy day for us but still loved it. I recommend good hiking boots. Overall, Bhutan was an unforgettable trip and a little slice of heaven on earth. Love the way Intrepid supports the local communities and provides local experiences.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023

Carolyn - Traveled, May 2023

Bhutan is a very beautiful ,peaceful country and the Bhutanese are so proud of their culture.You experience everything on the Premium Bhutan tour

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/11/2023

Sanjeev - Traveled, March 2023

We took a 9 day trip of Bhutan ( Premium Bhutan) with Intrepid Travel with a focus on understanding the country and its people, religion and culture. The trip was fantastic and provided us deep insight into the country. The small group size (11 people) allowed for close interaction. The Guide and tour leader (Tulsi) was excellent and very knowledgeable in all aspects of life and culture of this beautiful country. Our visit was capped by a hike to the Tigers Nest and learning about the second Buddha and the beautiful monastery there. Overall, thanks to Intrepid for coordinating this trip.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2023

Daniel - Traveled, November 2022

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Bhutan and learnt a lot about its culture over the course of this excellent tour. Many inclusions and activities kept us busy on most days.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/04/2022

Fiona - Traveled, October 2022

Bhutan is an incredible country - beautiful mountains, clean rivers, valleys filled with paddy fields and many Dzongs, monasteries and fortresses. A spiritual country with a rich culture and incredible people - this trip covers the towns of Thimphu and Paro and the beautiful valleys of Punakha and Phobjikha. The mountain scenery is gobsmacking! Beautiful hikes in the valleys ahead of the special climb to the Tiger's Nest. Such friendly people everywhere - incredible arts and crafts, skills passed down over generations, displayed everywhere. Stunning

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2022

Andrew - Traveled, October 2022

Bhutan is a beautiful country with some fascinating monasteries and wonderful scenery. Probjikha is beautiful but the two hotels we used on etc Premium trip were freezing cold without decent plumbing. Sadly, limited experiences and culture insights too. May be best to stick with an original standard trip as it is hard to see where the cost is reflected.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/13/2022

Pamela - Traveled, May 2024

This bucket list trip totally lived up to my expectations. From the flight into Paro to the Tigers Nest hike, I was in awe of this beautiful country that cares so much about its people. At 72, I was a bit concerned about making it to the top of Tigers Nest, but our driver Yoda stayed with me the entire time, anticipating my needs and was so patient. I will never forget the kindness and beauty of the Bhutanese people. I wept as we said farewell.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2024

Jason - Traveled, April 2024

A phenomenal trip made possible by our wonderful leader Sangay. Sangay and his team went above and beyond to make sure the trip was the most memorable tour with the right balance of hiking, culture and spectacular sights.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2024

Christine - Traveled, April 2024

This trip is AMAZING. I had Bhutan on my list for the last 3 years, and I'm so glad I picked this tour to go! The guide was the best guide I've ever had, we saw so many sites but at a very relaxed pace. Never felt rushed, but we got to see and do everything that I could have wanted. There are multiple included hikes, all are worthy. Honestly a 10/10 tour.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/29/2024

Louise - Traveled, April 2024

First time in 16 trips I have complained. This is not an Intrepid trip. You are subcontracted to Amen travel. They know and care little about the usual values you would expect. Bhutan great - just don’t pick this trip. Go to Bhutan but don’t do this trip.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2024