Hanging Monastery
Seize the challenge and climb to the magnificent Tiger’s Nest, perched high on the cliffside.
This 12-day journey through Bhutan moves from the gentle rhythm of Thimphu to Himalayan high passes, the glacial valley of Gangtey, and Paro, home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Often defying expectations, Bhutan is hard to neatly define, and this itinerary captures the essence of this remote kingdom.
Travel through breathtaking landscapes, among striking architecture, and across sites rich in history and tradition, with plenty of time to savour the warmth of the people and pause among fluttering prayer flags. This journey offers a glimpse into why Bhutan is considered one of the world’s happiest nations.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Monastic Life
Visit remote monasteries to observe monastic life, attend morning prayers, and receive a private blessing.
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Mountains & Valleys
Explore high mountain passes and the beautiful valleys of Bumthang and Gangtey.
Spring Festivities
Explore in springtime to coincide with vibrant festivals amidst a landscape transformed into a patchwork of colour.
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Day 1
Arrive Delhi
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Day 2
Delhi - Paro - Thimphu (Six Senses Thimpu)
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Day 3
Thimphu (Six Senses Thimpu)
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Day 4
Thimphu - Punakha (Six Senses Punakha)
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Day 5
Punakha - Bumthang (Six Senses Bumthang)
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Day 6
Bumthang (Six Senses Bumthang)
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Day 7
Bumthang - Gangtey (Gangtey Lodge)
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Day 8
Gangtey (Gangtey Lodge)
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Day 9
Gangtey - Paro (Uma Paro)
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Day 10
Paro (Uma Paro)
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Day 11
Paro - Delhi
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Day 12
Depart Delhi
Day 1
Arrive Delhi
Arrive into Delhi and transfer to your accommodation for the night.
Day 2
Delhi - Paro - Thimphu (Six Senses Thimpu)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro. On arrival, travel overland to Thimphu, a 75-minute journey. Bhutan’s young capital retains a friendly, small-town feel, with little shops and colourful markets set against a backdrop of tradition and modernity.
Day 3
Thimphu (Six Senses Thimpu)
Explore Thimphu with your guide, visiting Tashichho Dzong, the National Assembly, and the King’s Throne Room (open when monks are away). Discover traditional arts at the Painting School and Bhutan’s oldest holy books at the National Library.
Day 4
Thimphu - Punakha (Six Senses Punakha)
Travel over the 3,000m Dochu-La Pass to Punakha, a scenic three-hour journey past Buddhist shrines and prayer flags. On clear days, enjoy Himalayan views before visiting Punakha Dzong, a 400-year-old, six-storey fortress crowned with a brass roof.
Day 5
Punakha - Bumthang (Six Senses Bumthang)
Journey to Bumthang, taking around eight to ten hours, crossing the Pele-La (3,420m) and Yotong-La (3,425m) passes. The route winds through forests, past Trongsa Dzong, and into the open valleys of Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
Day 6
Bumthang (Six Senses Bumthang)
Bumthang’s four valleys are a tapestry of forests, rivers, and traditional villages. Explore sacred sites like Tamzhing Lhundrup Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, ride to Ogyen Choling Manor, visit the legendary Burning Lake, or hike to Padseling Goemba for hilltop views.
Day 7
Bumthang - Gangtey (Gangtey Lodge)
Travel six hours from Bumthang to Gangtey Valley, passing forests, mountain passes, and villages before descending into the glacial valley, home to Gangtey Monastery and wintering black-necked cranes which can be seen from late October to mid February.
Day 8
Gangtey (Gangtey Lodge)
Spend the day exploring this beautiful area; take in the views of the Gangtey Gompa, explore by bike or on foot via a range of easy walking trails and visit the Crane Information Centre.
Day 9
Gangtey - Paro (Uma Paro)
Travel overland from Gangtey to Paro taking around seven hours, via woodland and mountain passes before reaching the Paro Valley, home to Bhutan’s only international airport and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Day 10
Paro (Uma Paro)
Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), where Guru Rinpoche meditated. The challenging walk can be taken at your own pace, with a café stop en route. Later, visit Kyichu and Dungtse Lhakhangs before an evening stroll through Paro’s handicraft shops.
Day 11
Paro - Delhi
Fly to Delhi today and overnight in the city.
Day 12
Depart Delhi
Transfer to the airport for onward travel.
More Details
A Skyward retreat
Tigers Nest Monastery
The iconic Taktshang Monastery, or ‘Tiger’s Nest,’ is Bhutan’s most famous monastery. Built over a cave where Guru Rinpoche, the ‘Second Buddha,’ meditated, legend says he arrived here on a flying tiger. Perched on a cliff ledge, the monastery is reached by a two-hour hike through coniferous forest to a viewpoint offering breathtaking views. It is a challenging but hugely rewarding experience.
Read about Kate’s journey beyond the clouds.
Those feeling really energetic can continue to the Temple of Taktshang along a challenging path, rewarded by its stunning location
Read More
Colour, Culture, Tradition
Bhutan Festivals
Festivals, or tshechu, are an intrinsic part of Bhutanese life. Happening year-round, we can tailor your itinerary to coincide with one of these unforgettable celebrations. The vibrant Punakha, Thimphu, and Paro festivals take place in March and April, drawing thousands to witness masked dances and elaborate costumes. For a more intimate experience, the Khotakha Valley Festivals, known as “Beyul” (the hidden valley), held in May, August, and September, offer deep cultural insight.
Gangtey’s Winter Guests
The Cranes of Phojikha Valley
Overlooked by the striking Gangtey Gompa, Phobjikha Valley is a winter sanctuary for rare black-necked cranes migrating from Tibet. From late October to mid-February, visitors can see these majestic birds in the wild, resting in the valley’s marshlands. Dotted with traditional Bhutanese farms, the landscape is breathtaking year-round but bursts into colour in spring with purple buckwheat and yellow mustard flowers. Visit the Crane Information Centre for a closer look, or time your trip for November’s Black-Necked Crane Festival, a vibrant celebration held in the courtyard of Gangtey Gompa.
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A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. This itinerary includes stays at boutique guest houses, however, uniquely styled five star comfortable hotels can be added to your holiday too. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From £7,995 Per person
When to travel
Bhutan in January
The coldest month in Bhutan, but it is very dry and crisp with clear skies. The south of the country, at lower elevations, is warmer.
Bhutan in February
Temperatures remain cold, but skies also remain clear with often spectacular views of the Himalayas.
Bhutan in March
Temperatures rise, as spring bursts into life. Hillsides are abundant with blooming wildflowers. It is still chilly at high altitudes, but the skies are clear. Overall, a fantastic time to visit.
Bhutan in April
An ideal time for trekking, as temperatures continue to rise. The chance of a shower increases too, but it is not monsoon season yet. Make sure to book accommodation in advance.
Bhutan in May
Temperatures, humidity, and rainfall all increase. Visitor numbers drop, however, and the rhododendrons are still beautiful.
Bhutan in June
The start of the monsoon season. Not a recommended time to visit, although views can be spectacular after the rains clear.
Bhutan in July
The monsoon is in full swing. Temperatures but also rainfall peak. Not a good time for trekking
Bhutan in August
Sightseeing is still possible but the monsoon season continues.
Bhutan in September
The rain starts to abate, and by the end of the month, most days are fine and dry. A changeable month, with warm temperatures to be enjoyed between the showers.
Bhutan in October
The perfect time for hiking, with stunning views and comfortable temperatures. The busiest month though, so we recommend booking accommodation well in advance.
Bhutan in November
Rainfall will occur as temperatures begin to drop and expect it to be chilly at higher elevations. A great time to see rare black-necked cranes.
Bhutan in December
The start of winter, and cold, crisp days. Visitor numbers drop, but there are still stunning views to be had for those willing to wrap up.
Holiday Inspiration
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