From cultural discoveries to breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary is designed to inspire every type of traveller. Each experience has been carefully selected to offer meaningful insight, memorable stories, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Fly from UK to Kolkata.
Arrive Kolkata in the morning. You’ll be met by the Novaturient’s representative and transferred to the hotel LaBari for an overnight stay. Afternoon Kolkata sightseeing includes St Paul’s Cathedral, Victoria Memorial and Mother Theresa’s House.
Morning fly to Paro. After immigration formalities you’ll be welcomed by the Novaturient representative with a ‘tashi khaddar’- a white scarf given as a traditional and auspicious way to welcome guests. Then transfer to The Nirvana Lodge and Homestay for overnight stay. In the afternoon have your first exploratory walk. Discover the city centre of Paro and visit Kyichu Lhakhang. It’s one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the country with deep links to the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
After breakfast drive to the Chelela Pass; the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. Without doubt the views are utterly breathtaking. From Chelela Pass walk to the Kila Gompa Nunnery. Its takes about 2 hours to walk the round trip. Perched on soaring 3500m cliffs the 7 small Temples and retreat huts are home to roughly 70 -100 Nuns. After a picnic lunch drive to the Haa valley, also known as the ‘Hidden Land Rice Valley’. Stay at The Ugyen Village Homestay for 2 nights. Evening visit the 7th C. Temples of Lhakhang Karpo, the White Temple and Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple.
A full day’s walk explores the lovely valley. The people here follow a traditional way of life. Visit the lower village of Lechuna, cross a quaint wooden bridge over the Haa Chhu (river), walk through a beautiful forest before arriving at the Jamte Gompa. Visit the 300 year old monastery, and then relax over a cup of tea at a local farmer’s house. Next, following a little used track, continue walking to Chumpa bridge. Rest by the river and tuck into a picnic lunch. After lunch a leisurely walk through the delightful Chuma village. See the locals at work and perhaps stop for a chat. Finally continue to the lodge in time for high tea.
After breakfast drive to Bhutan’s capital town Thimphu. On arrival check-in at The Gaa Yuel Home for 2 nights stay. In the afternoon take a short drive to visit Buddha Dordenma perched atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. The huge gilded, bronze statue was built to celebrate the 60th birthday of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Next visit the National Memorial Chorten, the superb Trashichho Dzong- fortress of the glorious religion and now the seat of government. Also wander the local craft bazaar.
After breakfast walk to the 12thC. Dodey Drak Monastery. The 2 ½ hrs hike from Thimphu takes you through coniferous forests along a truly scenic trail before reaching the spectacular Dodey Drak Monastery. The Monastery houses a monastic school and small museum showcasing religious artifacts, mainly attributed to the founder of the Monastery Jamyang Gyeltshen. Then continue to a 1000 year old meditation hermitage before returning to the homestay.
After breakfast drive to Paro. Stay at The Nirvana Lodge and Homestay for 2 nights. Afternoon take a 5 hours round trip walk to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark – the Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest. The setting is stunning – you can imagine Guru Rinpoche, according to a legend, flying to the craggy heights on the back of a tigress! After the days walk time to relax with a cooking session on Bhutanese cuisine.
After breakfast proceed for a full day walk through dense oak, conifer and bamboo forests to Chumgphug Lhakhang. It’s one of the countries most sacred pilgrimage places, revered as a Second Pemako (a region in Tibet), in reference to Padmasambhava’s ‘Hidden Land’. Guru Padmasabhava is believed to have mediated in Chumphug for roughly 3 months in the 8th C. The towering cliffs and waterfalls make it an incredibly stunning and atmospheric setting.
After breakfast transfer to the airport to board your flight to Kolkata. Meeting, assistance on arrival by the Novaturient representative and transfer to hotel LalBari for an overnight stay. Afternoon at leisure
Transfer to the airport to fly home.
Each Bhutan itinerary is designed to go beyond the highlights, offering deeper insight into the country’s landscapes, people, and philosophy of life. Travel at a relaxed pace, with expert local guides and carefully chosen experiences that respect Bhutan’s traditions and environment. Whether you’re seeking cultural discovery, scenic trekking, or spiritual immersion, our journeys are shaped around you and your preferred style of travel.
Essential information to help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through Bhutan.
Yes. UK passport holders require a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa is arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator as part of your travel arrangements. Independent travel is not permitted.
Yes. Bhutan operates a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which contributes to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and environmental conservation. The fee is payable per person, per night and is included as part of your travel planning.
The length of stay is determined by your approved itinerary and visa. Extensions are possible but must be arranged locally and approved by Bhutanese authorities.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Bhutan and have at least one blank page.
The most popular times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), offering clear mountain views, pleasant temperatures, and colourful festivals. Winter and summer offer quieter travel with fewer visitors.
Yes. Bhutan is well suited to first-time travellers to Asia due to its structured tourism model, excellent guides, and calm pace of travel. Journeys are fully supported, making travel straightforward and enriching.
The Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) is the local currency and is pegged to the Indian Rupee, which is also widely accepted. Credit cards are limited outside major hotels, so some cash is recommended.
Bhutan is considered a very safe destination with low crime rates. Travel is well organised, and visitors are accompanied by licensed guides throughout their journey.
No mandatory vaccinations are required for UK travellers, but it’s advisable to be up to date with routine vaccinations. Always consult your GP or travel health clinic before travelling.
Modest dress is recommended, especially when visiting monasteries and religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven terrain and steps.
