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 Delhi.
Arrive Delhi in the morning. You will met by Novaturient’s representative on your arrival with transfer to the Colonel’s Reteat for an overnight stay. Rest of the day at leisure.
Morning fly to Paro. After immigration formalities you will be welcomed by our representatives with a ‘tashi khaddar’ (white scarf offering – an auspicious welcome to guests). Then drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Enroute visit Tamchog Lhakhang. Check in at The Lemon Tree Hotel for 2 nights stay. Later in the afternoon walk around the National Memorial Chorten. In the evening meet a local family, and, over dinner, learn about their culture, tradtions and of course – cuisine!
After breakfast take a short drive to the north of the town to Buddha Dordenma and view the massive statue of Shakyamuni made of bronze and gilded in gold. At 51.5m high, it’s one of the largest statues in Bhutan. Then walk to the 12th C. Tango Goemba, now a Bhuddist University with approximately 300 students. Later visit the Folk Heritage museum and have an authentic Bhutanese lunch at the museum restaurant. After lunch sightseeing includes the Textile Museum, Pangri Zampa – 16th C. and Trashichhoedzong, ‘The Fortress of the Glorious Religion’. Before returning to the hotel, take a leisurely walk to local craft bazaar.
After breakfast drive up to Dochu-la pass (3,088m) stopping to take in the wonderful view and see the chorten, mani wall and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. Participate in a Prayer flag hoisting at Dochula pass. Drive to Gangtey valley, one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places in Bhutan. On arrival check in at The Dewachen Hotel for 2 nights. Evening visit the Gangtey Goempa and beautiful Gangtey village.
Early morning visit the Monastic school to witness a prayer ceremony. After breakfast visit Gangtey Goempa followed by a walking excursion to Gangtey Nature Trail. This delightful walk lets you absorb the beauty of nature in the Phobjikha valley. After lunch continue on and explore the fascinating Phobjikha valley, winter home to black necked cranes who migrate there from the arid northern plains. Also visit the Black Neck Crane Information Centre.
After breakfast drive to Punakha. Check in at The Meri Puensum Resort for 2 nights stay. After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong – ‘Palace of Great Happiness’, built at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Make a short excursion to Chimi Lhakhang. Evening explore the newly developed Wangdue town and its local market.
After breakfast hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten. It was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. Picnic lunch by the riverside enjoying the magnificent views and absorbing the peace and serenity of the valley. Next visit Rinchengang Village. This small, clustered, picturesque village roughly 20 minutes walk up a gentle gradient, is delightful with old traditional mud houses on the opposite side of the hill facing Wangdue Dzong. Later in the afternoon, a Cooking session on Bhutanese cuisine.
After an early breakfast drive to Haa Valley via Dochula pass. Also known as the Hidden-Land Rice Valley, the valley of Haa lies on the western most edge of Bhutan. Check in at The Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge for 2 nights. Afternoon relaxed walk around the exotic Haa valley.
Today, visit the Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and the Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple). Both built in the 7th C. by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo. Later trek to Jamte Goempa, passing by the village of Lechuna and the Haa Chhu (river). This is followed by a visit to a local farmers house for a cup of tea and ‘zau’. After a picnic lunch walk through the beautiful Chuma village watching villagers at work. Then continue to the lodge in time for high tea.
After breakfast, drive to Paro via Chelela pass. Check in at The Paro Eco Lodge for 2 nights. Try your hand at Archery, the Bhutanese National sport. Then relax with an outdoor lunch. Later visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower and now houses the impressive National Museum. Finally a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), meaning ‘Fortress of the Heap of Jewels’.
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours round trip walk). Late afternoon attend a blessing ceremony at a village Monastery followed by the beautiful spectacle of the lighting of 108 butter lamps. This is a special prayer ceremony by monks for peace, prosperity and happiness. Late afternoon visit 7th C. Kyichu Lhakhang. One of an amazing 108 Temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo.
After breakfast transfer to the airport to board your flight to Delhi. Meeting, assistance on arrival and transfer to Colonels Retreat for an overnight stay. Rest of the day 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.
