An ancient Himalayan kingdom where centuries-old fortresses stand guard over forested valleys, Bhutan is the stuff of travel dreams. And, on this tailor-made getaway, you’ll be introduced to the country’s fabled highlights. You’ll uncover grand castles, visit rural villages and hike through flower-strewn forests to reach dramatically perched monasteries. Along the way, you’ll stay at luxury mountain lodges that have hosted past presidents, enjoying private touring, the services of a driver throughout and included dining at restaurants favoured by kings and queens.
Begin your holiday with included UK airport lounge access before your overnight flight to Bhutan.
After flying in through the Himalayas, you’ll be met by your private driver and brought along river valleys to your accommodation. Here, hand-painted murals look out to stunning mountain views – past guests include presidents. Along the way, your private guide will stop everywhere from prayer-flag-lined bridges and a 50-metre-tall Buddha statue to local markets, farms and hilltop viewpoints.
The next day, you’ll drive out for a hike through rhododendron forests to reach a hidden, 12th-century monastery. Then, a visit to an artists’ collective brings you to Tashichho Dzong – an 800-year-old fortress and a true national icon. Finish with a dance performance back at your hotel.
Stay: Postcard Dewa (Deluxe)
Breakfast & Dinner included
Pemako Thimphu
Thimphu
Thimphu Dzong
Driving up the Dochu La Pass, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the Himalayas from a 108-strong collection of stupas. Tiered temples and a hike to a hilltop shrine will then see you to Punakha Dzong. First constructed in 1637, it was once the seat of government and still stands a stern castle city of immeasurable importance. Your luxury mountain lodge, all blonde timber and valley views, is almost as delightful.
You’ll begin the following day with a hike, past yet more tiered temples, to Giligang – a 300-year-old monastery surrounded by forests and rice paddies. Then, descend to visit a nunnery, perched among on a ridge of pine trees.
Stay: andBeyond Punakha River Lodge (Deluxe)
Breakfast & Dinner included
Stupas at Dochu La Pass
Punakha Dzong
Mapping rushing rivers, you’ll drive on to Paro, guarded by the venerable Ta Dzong. This great circular watchtower now houses the National Museum’s cultural treasures, looking down over Paro Dzong – a great, buttressed monolith and a Bhutanese landmark . You’ll then uncover the region’s more human side with a visit to a traditional village before returning to your luxury, tree-clad lodge.
The restaurant is a Bhutanese royal family favourite. The next day, you’ll hike up, through pine forests and groves of prayer flags, to reach Taktsang Monastery, a highlight of world travel. Better known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’, its great whitewashed tiers are perched dramatically atop a mist-shrouded cliff face.
Breakfast & Dinner included
Paro Dzong
Rinpung Monastery, Paro
Tiger's Nest Monastery
A final private transfer will see you to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.
Breakfast included
Arrive back in the UK after your flight and continue your onward journey home.
"This sample itinerary is the perfect introduction to this extraordinary country. By having a private guide, you'll really get to know Bhutan and its countless charms. The highlight for me is Tiger's Nest Monastery, although the accommodation I've picked (and stayed at) is so superb, you might struggle to leave each morning to see the sights!"
Katrin Rummer
Destination Specialist
Low Season from: £6,380 pp
High Season from: £7,480 pp
Included: