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Journey into Central Bhutan
Gentle trekking and cultural tour | 18 days
This relaxing itinerary combines an excellent introduction to Bhutan with a gentle three-day hike from the agricultural heartland of Bumthang. Your journey from Kathmandu, via dramatic mountain flight to Paro, will include all the main highlights before you reach Bumthang in central Bhutan. Maximum altitude on the trek is 3,400m. The route takes you through rural villages with visits to simple monasteries where you can chat with friendly monks. Apple orchards, wide valleys and working farms all form part of this extremely enjoyable trek.
Day 1: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 2: Explore Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly to Paro in Bhutan
Day 4: Visit the Taktsang Monastery
Day 5: Drive to Thimphu, capital of Bhutan
Day 6: Visit Thimphu’s national library
Day 7: Drive to Wangdi/Punakha
Day 8: Drive to Tongsa
Day 9: Drive to Bumthang
Day 10: Bumthang
Days 11-13: On trek
Day 14: Return to Tongsa
Day 15: Drive to Thimphu
Day 16: Drive to Paro
Day 17: Fly to Kathmandu
Day 18: Fly to London
guide price £3,980 per person
Fiona’s travel tips
FESTIVALS: Festival dates vary according to the lunar calendar, so all itineraries will be individually crafted.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE: Having to abandon my vehicle due to a landslide and walk 10 very wet, dark kilometres through rainforest with only fireflies to guide the way.
TOP TIP: The interior of Bhutan’s monasteries are officially closed to foreigners. Combine Bhutan with Sikkim, where the monasteries are open to all, for an all-round appreciation.
DZONG DATA:Punakha Dzong was built in 1637 and was the scene of the coronation of the first King of Bhutan in 1907. Built in 1692 on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley, Taktsang Dzong is also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
JOURNEY TIME: 9 hours direct + 3 hours indirect
Clients’ comments
“My visit ended with a three day trek through the Gangtey Valley and time to reflect on my return to this wonderful country and its friendly open people, all made possible through Fiona and Far Frontiers Travel. Bhutan is truly magical and to anyone planning to go I would say, do it.”
Ian Stubbs, Nepal and BhutanPeter Fleming, Bayonets to Lhasa
“Fiona could not have been more helpful. Her knowledge and advice about Bhutan was invaluable in the planning of my trip and her perseverance with the Tibet situation was much appreciated.”
Sybil Johnson, Bhutan