Bhutan Tailor Made Tours: Luxury 6-Day Itinerary Exploring Charming Bhutan

Highlights of the Trip

Enjoy this luxury tour from our Bhutan tailor made tours. Discover the country’s breath-taking natural beauty and meet with our Bhutanese friends. Embrace the philosophy of a nation that is guided by the principles of ‘Gross National Happiness’. In this 6-Day tour, you will admire carving and painting at the Arts and Crafts Vocational School, experience a deeply relaxing Marma Massage at the Lodge’s Spa Village and uncover Taktsang/Tiger’s Nest Temple – one of the holiest sites in Bhutan. This luxury trip to Bhutan package will leave you feeling relaxed with just the right balance of meaningful and memorable encounters.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Thimphu

• Arts and Craft Vocational School: A hub for traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts. It offers various courses and workshops where students can learn and hone their skills in wood carving, painting, weaving, and other handicrafts. Visitors can also buy unique handcrafted items as souvenirs from the school’s gift shop.
• Folk Heritage Museum: This museum is a perfect place to visit in Bhutan to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Bhutanese people. It is a restored traditional Bhutanese house that showcases the country’s rural life, customs, and traditions. Visitors can also participate in traditional activities, such as butter churning and grinding grains, to get a hands-on experience of the Bhutanese culture.

Punakha

• Dochula Pass (en-route): Located at an altitude of 3,100 meters, Dochula Pass is a picturesque mountain pass en-route to Punakha. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is home to 108 chortens (stupas) built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan.
• Chimi Lhakhang: This temple, dedicated to the ‘Divine Madman’ – Drukpa Kunley, is known for its unique fertility rituals. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s religious beliefs.
• Punakha Dzong: This beautiful fortress, located at the confluence of two rivers, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. It is also the second largest and oldest dzong in the country.
• Punakha Suspension Bridge: This is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque Punakha valley. The bridge is also a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts who can enjoy the thrill of crossing the bridge while admiring the scenic beauty.
• (Hike to) Chorten Ningpo: This sacred site is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It is a short hike from the Punakha Suspension Bridge and leads to a beautiful chorten (Buddhist stupa) surrounded by colourful prayer flags. The hike offers stunning views of the valley and is a great way to experience the peacefulness and spirituality of Bhutan.
• Kabasa Village: Kabasa village is a charming traditional village that gives visitors a glimpse into the daily life of the Bhutanese people. It is known for its beautiful, terraced fields, traditional houses, and friendly locals. Visitors can also try their hand at traditional activities like archery and taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine.
• Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong: Also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, this dzong (fortress) is one of the oldest and most important in Bhutan. It is in the Wangdue Phodrang district and is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque location. Visitors can explore the dzong and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the monks.

Paro

• Semtokha Dzong: This dzong is the oldest in Bhutan and is considered the country’s spiritual and cultural centre. It houses various religious and cultural artifacts, including ancient scriptures and statues. Visitors can also attend prayer sessions and learn about Bhutanese Buddhism.
• Chuzom: This is a small town located at the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers. It is a popular stop for tourists on their way to Paro or Thimphu. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the rivers, take a leisurely stroll, and try local delicacies at the roadside stalls.
• Rinpung Dzong: This dzong is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. It is known for its intricate woodwork, stunning paintings, and beautiful courtyards. Visitors can also witness the famous Paro Tsechu festival, held annually at the dzong, which showcases traditional dances and rituals.
• Namgay Artisanal Brewery: This brewery is known for its locally brewed beer, Red Panda. It is a popular spot for beer lovers and offers a unique experience with its rustic ambiance and scenic views. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and enjoy a cold, refreshing beer while taking in the beauty of the Paro valley.
• Tiger’s Nest Temple Hike: The Tiger’s Nest, also known as Paro Taktsang, is the most iconic and must-visit destination in Bhutan. It is a sacred monastery built on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters and can be reached by a challenging trek through lush forests and steep trails.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Observe Carving, Painting, and Sculpture at the Arts and Crafts Vocational School: The Arts and Crafts Vocational School in Thimphu is a great place to witness traditional Bhutanese art forms. Here, visitors can observe skilled artisans creating intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Enjoy a Jet Lag Massage After Your Flight: After a long flight to Bhutan, a jet lag massage is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.

Treat Yourself to a 60-Minute Marma Massage at the Lodge’s Spa Village in Punakha: Marma massage is a traditional Bhutanese massage that focuses on specific pressure points to relieve tension and promote relaxation. The Spa Village at the lodge in Punakha offers a 60-minute Marma massage that will leave you feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated.

Take a Trekking Tour of The Tiger Nest Monastery: This sacred site is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters and is believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan. The trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Hike to Chorten Ningpo Monastery: Located in the hills above Punakha, Chorten Ningpo Monastery is a peaceful and serene place to visit. The hike to the monastery takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. Once at the monastery, visitors can witness the daily rituals of the monks and take in the beautiful architecture and artwork.

Take a Cycle Ride in Punakha: For the more active traveller, cycling through the scenic Punakha valley is a great way to explore the countryside. The area is relatively flat, making it ideal for leisurely rides, and there are several rental shops in Punakha where you can rent a bike for the day.

Visit the Home of Aum Tshewang and Sample Homemade Ara (Bhutanese Moonshine): Ara is a traditional Bhutanese alcohol made from fermented rice. Aum Tshewang is a local woman who has been making ara for many years and welcomes visitors into her home to sample her homemade brew. This is a unique and authentic way to experience Bhutanese culture and hospitality.

Try Beer Tasting at Namgay Artisanal Brewery: For beer lovers, a visit to the Namgay Artisanal Brewery is a must. Here, visitors can sample a variety of locally brewed beers and learn about the brewing process. The brewery also offers tours and tastings, making it a fun and educational experience.

Enjoy a Back, Neck, and Shoulder ‘Tension Soother Massage’ in Paro: After a day of exploring, a tension soother massage is the perfect way to relax and unwind. This massage focuses on the back, neck, and shoulders, targeting areas where tension and stress tend to build up.

Dress in Traditional Bhutanese Attire: For a truly immersive cultural experience, visitors can dress in traditional Bhutanese attire. Your hotel offers rentals of the national dress, known as the gho for men and kira for women. This is a fun and unique way to connect with Bhutanese culture.

Enjoy Live Music, Folk Dances, and Traditional Bhutanese Cuisine: No visit to Bhutan is complete without experiencing the country’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Many hotels and restaurants offer cultural performances, where visitors can witness traditional dances and listen to live music while enjoying delicious Bhutanese dishes.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Bhutan

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region. One of the best ways to experience the unique culture of Bhutan is through its authentic dishes. Bhutanese cuisine is a blend of traditional Tibetan, Indian and Chinese flavours, with a strong emphasis on locally grown ingredients. Some must-try dishes include Ema Datshi, a spicy dish made with chili peppers and cheese, and momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Other dishes like Phaksha Paa, a pork dish cooked with radishes and chilies, and Jasha Maru, a spicy chicken stew, are also popular among locals and visitors alike. These authentic dishes not only tantalize the taste buds but also offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Bhutan.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Go White Water Rafting in the Punakha River: For the adventurous traveller, white water rafting on the Punakha River is a thrilling activity. The river offers a variety of rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. This is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Bhutan from a different perspective.

Enjoy a Hot Stone Bath or Dhotsho: The hot stone bath, or Dhotsho, is a traditional Bhutanese practice that has been passed down for generations. It involves heating river stones and placing them in a wooden tub filled with water and local herbs. The heat from the stones releases medicinal properties from the herbs, creating a therapeutic bath that is said to have healing benefits. This experience is not only relaxing but also provides a unique insight into Bhutanese traditional medicine and its connection to nature.

Relax with a Sauna, Cold Plunge, or Deep Tissue Massage at the Spa Lodge in Paro: After a day of adventure, relaxation is essential. Your accommodation in Paro offers a range of spa treatments, including saunas, cold plunges, and deep tissue massages, to help you unwind and rejuvenate. This is the perfect way to end your trip to Bhutan and leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Accommodation of this Tour

Thimphu: Spa Hotel/Lodge

Punakha: Lodge’s Spa Village

Paro: Spa Hotel/Lodge