Trip Overview
Unlock the secret wonders of tiny Bhutan, a peaceable kingdom high in the Himalayas. Discover an astonishing natural diversity as you hike to fabled temples, participate in traditional ceremonies, and camp beneath starry skies. Along the way, experience the warm embrace of a culture rooted in kindness, spiritual traditions, and a deep reverence for nature.
Bhutan’s Himalayan mountain vistas, sweeping valleys, and deep forests create a stunning backdrop for adventures that speak to body, mind, and spirit. During 12 lost-in-time days discover wonders both earthly and divine, and a kingdom that values – and measures – its Gross National Happiness.
Paro
Meet your AdventureWomen traveling companions in Bangkok and fly to Paro, Bhutan. It’s an instant immersion into this colorful riverside town as you set out for the richly adorned Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery. Toast to your upcoming adventures during a lively welcome dinner. In the morning drive up 13,000-foot-high Chele La Pass, then follow strings of prayer flags on a panoramic walk to the summit.
Throughout your journey, your expert Bhutanese guide offers insight into the country’s long history and spiritual focus. You are also accompanied by an AdventureWomen Ambassador, committed to helping make your experience a fun and personally rewarding adventure, and cheering you on as you reach beyond your comfort zone to take on new challenges in your own unique way!
Bumthang Valley & Traongsa
Fly to the beautiful Bumthang valley dotted with ancient temples. As special, permission-only guests, explore the sacred monastic site of Jambey Lakhang. A leisurely walk brings you in step with one another as you follow the jade-green Chamkhar River through the pastoral countryside. In a remote corner of the valley, visit the Pema Choeling Nunnery, home to approximately 100 female students. Join them in a moving spiritual drum ceremony and engage with the nuns to learn about their lives of devotion.
Continue to the town of Trongsa, stopping at a traditional wool-weaving center and the massive Trongsa Dzong fortress. In the surrounding Phobjikha Valley between 800-1,000 rare black-necked cranes settle in for the winter, offering superb photographic opportunities. As you walk through this exquisite natural environment, some will say you’re in Shangri-La – you may find it hard to disagree!
Punakha & Paro
Onward to Punakha, the ancient country capital and home of your lovely tented retreat. Test your aim in traditional archery and darts before dinner, then sleep sweetly under a canopy of stars. En route to bustling, modern Thimpu, visit the 108 stupas at the Dochu La Pass. The colossal statue of seated Buddha Dordenma bestows a blessing of peace. Follow a pine-scented trail to Cheri Monastery, and visit a colorful traditional bazaar before an enlightening dinner in the company of local dignitaries.
Return to Paro for two final nights and further explore its cultural highlights. The meditative pilgrimage hike to the viewpoint of the iconic Taktsang Lhakhang Monastery, Tiger’s Nest, is a memorable communal experience with your new friends. Celebrate your restored inner calm at the farewell dinner, toasting to the kindred spirit of your fellow travelers, and the gentle harmony that is a way of life in this tiny remote kingdom.
- Day-by-Day Itinerary
- What’s Included in your Bhutan Cultural Tour
- Where You Stay While in Bhutan
- Travel Tips and Traveling to Bhutan via Bangkok, Thailand
- Detailed Itinerary December 6, 2022 Bhutan: Buddhist Temples & Himalayan Vistas
- Detailed Itinerary December 6, 2023 Bhutan: Buddhist Temples & Himalayan Vistas
Main Attractions
- Journey through diverse mountain and valley landscapes, from high passes to river-laced farmlands
- Explore ancient fortresses, monasteries, and temples
- Participate in a moving drum ceremony for peace with the nuns at the remote Pema Choeling Nunnery
- Camp under the stars for one night, near the historic valley town of Punakha
- Hike the pilgrimage trail to the viewpoint of exquisite Taktsang Lhakhang, “Tiger’s Nest” monastery
What You'll See and Do
- Anthropology
- Buddhism
- Camping
- Handicrafts
- Hiking
- Historical Sites
- Local Delicacies
- Natural History
- Sightseeing
- Spa Element
- UNESCO Site
- Women-To-Women Exchanges
Download Extended Itinerary
- Dec 6 > Dec 17, 2022
Download Itinerary PDF - Dec 6 > Dec 17, 2023
Download Itinerary PDF