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Nestled high in the eastern Himalayas, the majestic Kingdom of Bhutan encapsulates a unique and exemplary position in today's world of travel. Its enduring commitment to the happiness and wellbeing of the Bhutanese population and the protection of the natural environment and culture offers travellers an incredibly enriching experience.


Blissfully remote and isolated, not to mention dominated by jaw-dropping natural beauty, this landlocked country sits between the mighty Himalayas, the powerhouse that is China and some of the most remote areas of India. It remains one of the world’s most mysterious and undiscovered destinations. Dramatic scenery, winding mountain passes, snow-capped peaks, fluttering prayer flags and vibrant rhododendrons are the backdrop for a colourful culture steeped in religion and mythology.

Bhutan holds the significant title of being the first country in the world to become carbon negative. The constitution mandates that at least 60% of the country has to be under forest cover. Right now, about 70% of the country is covered by forests. The Kingdom is undoubtedly one of the greenest countries in the world, absorbing more greenhouse gases than it emits. They are clearly a role model to the world in terms of environmental preservation.

Join us on this captivating small group journey that offers guests an intimate experience of the magnificent Himalayas in an environment protected from mass tourism and enhanced by a commitment to the sustainability of the landscape and local culture. We are cushioned by the comfort of beautiful accommodation and fabulous food, and inspired by gentle walks and unique cultural insights.

How itUnfolds

DAY Day 1 Arrive into Paro airport and transfer to the Punakha valley

The flight into Bhutan takes us over the great Himalayas, offering the most breathtaking vistas of the world’s highest glacial peaks . After collecting our luggage and clearing customs, our guide will meet us at the airport for the 4 hour scenic transfer to Punakha.
At an elevation of 1,250 metres, Punakha Valley is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan. Lush paddy fields, a majestic dzong fortress, cantilever and suspension bridges, mud houses, snow-capped mountains and a gorgeous river confluence make up the landscape of this valley town.
Overnight: Six Senses Lodge Punakha.
Meals: lunch & dinner

DAY Day 2 Punakha

After breakfast we hike this morning up to the intricate temple complex of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a walk of around 2 hours. After traversing the suspension bridge, see local farmers tending their avocado, passionfruit, orange orchards and rice fields before reaching the peak where you will be rewarded with stunning views across the valley. You will have the opportunity to stroll through local villages and chat to farmers going about their day.
In the afternoon we visit the Punakha Dzong.
Overnight: Six Senses Punakha.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 3 Punakha Tshechu Festival

Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery before walking through the valley to Punakha Dzong to attend the Punakha Tshechu Festival. This three day Festival is full of colour and excitement and offers us a window into
ancient local tradition and culture.
Overnight: Six Senses Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 4 Punakha to Gangtey

After breakfast we will depart by road toward the gorgeous Phobjikha Valley, one of the most beautiful open valleys in Bhutan.
Phobjikha Valley is home to the revered Black Necked Cranes migrating from the Tibetan plateau to escape the harsh winter. An estimate of 200 to 300 cranes reside in this valley from November to March and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) take extreme measures to ensure the safety of the Cranes.
Overnight: Gangtey Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 5 Gangtey

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Lodge before a nature trail hike along the ridge of the glacial Phobjikha valley. The trail is gentle and meanders through the verdant pinewood forest and offers spectacular views across the immense valley. We may be fortunate enough to encounter the spectacular black necked cranes either in full flight or grazing.
Overnight: Gangtey Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 6 Gangtey

For those up for the challenge, set off this morning on a 4 - 5 hour hike through some of the most beautiful and picturesque parts of Gangtey. Starting the hike from Longteng Village, pass through the dwarf bamboo forests towards a small cluster of village houses, rhododendron forests and yak pastures. At Kayche La we are rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the entire valley and the snow-capped Himalayas in the distance.
Overnight: Gangtey Lodge
Meals:Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 7 Gangtey to Thimphu

We depart Gangtey this morning and travel to Thimphu, a journey of approximately 4 hours.
The Kingdom’s capital, Thimphu is home to approximately 100,000 inhabitants including the Royal family. This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government. Check in to the stunning Six Senses Thimphu - nicknamed The Palace in the Sky - perched on a hillside and offering dazzling views across the capital.
Time permitting we take a loop walk around the Lodge to take in the stunning views and the glorious natural environment.
Overnight: Six Senses Thimphu
Meals : Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 8 Thimphu

There is much to see in Thimphu, including the National Textile Museum, part of the Royal Textile Academy celebrating Bhutan’s rich textile traditions and way of life. The Memorial Chorten is a highly visible Thimphu landmark with its golden spires and is an extraordinary example of Buddhist architecture and artwork with its gorgeous paintings and intricate sculptures.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. We highly recommend the spa services at Six Senses, particularly the hot stone baths.
Overnight: Six Senses Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 9 Thimphu to Paro

After breakfast we depart Thimphu and drive to Paro. The Paro Valley resembles an Eastern version of Switzerland, with plots of wheat and barley, rice fields and the valley floor gleaming silver with irrigation channels that flow from the Paro River. For now Paro remains one of the best Bhutanese towns to explore on foot
Overnight: Six Senses Paro
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 10 Paro and Tigers Nest trek

This morning we hike up to view one of Bhutan’s most revered monuments, the Taktshang Goemba, more commonly referred to as the “Tiger’s Nest”. We set off early along the winding path through the beautiful forest of blue pine and rhododendrons and past the spinning prayer wheels for a chance to witness monks at morning prayer. The four to six hour trek offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m above the valley floor.
Overnight: Six Senses Paro
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

DAY Day 11 Paro departure

Our tour concludes after breakfast. Time to transfer to the airport in good time for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast

Meet your Guide:

Jennifer Wilkinson Owner / Director

Jennifer has a life-long passion for food, wine and travel. Following a successful career in economics and industrial relations, she…

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GuestStories

  • There could not be a better way to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and culture of Bhutan, than on this Epicurious tour. Mark and Pam Emery February 2024

    Discover the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan

  • Epicurious Travel is a totally professional outfit .
    Bhutan was our second trip with them and it won’t be our last. Richard and Louise Crosby, February 2024

    Discover the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan – Richard and Louise Crosby