Hidden Bhutan
Cultural Adventures in the Land of the Thunder Dragon
Trip Details at-a-Glance
| Cost From: | $5395 see pricing |
|---|---|
| Length: | 12 days |
| Arrive: | Paro, Bhutan |
| Depart: | Paro, Bhutan |
| Lodging: | 4 nights in hotels, 5 nights in lodges, 2 nights in riverside camp (on some departures) describe |
| Meals: | All meals included |
| Activity: | Cultural Adventures, Walking |
| Trip Level: |
7 hiking days on easy to moderate trails, 2-5 hours a day, altitudes between 7,000-10,000 feet
|
Highlights
- Enjoy exhilarating day hikes to traditional villages and mountain temples
- Hike to the famous cliff hermitage of Taktsang
- Buddhist festivals (Mar and Sep trips), wintering black-necked cranes (Nov trip)
- Fine Bhutanese hotels, including the Taj Tashi in Thimphu
Wow! A life-changing trip that I will never forget.Joe H.—Eastsound, WA
Choosing the Right Trip
We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.
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References
We are proud to have an exceptionally high rate of repeat travelers. For more information, we would be happy to put you in touch with a client who has traveled with us.
Email Area ManagerDeparture Notes
Once you have signed up on the trip, we send a complete packing list, relevant health information, and required travel documents.
Resources
In the secluded Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, Buddhism permeates every aspect of daily life, hidden valleys shelter exquisite age-old temples and monasteries, and the king decrees “Gross National Happiness” as the standard by which to measure the country’s wealth. On this enchanting journey, we experience Bhutan’s unique culture in its mystical Shangri La setting as we hike to tiny villages and mountainside chortens (shrines) bedecked with prayer flags, explore riverside markets, and meet red-robed monks in fortress-monasteries reigning over wooded valleys. Our March and September trips feature fascinating Tsechu festivals, colorful events featuring masked dance-dramas; the November departure offers a chance to see migrating black-necked cranes in the high Phobjikha Valley.
Itinerary at a Glance
For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-2
Paro / Haa Valley (Paro Festival Departure)
Arriving in Paro, we head to the mountain-ringed Haa Valley in westernmost Bhutan. Renowned for its deep cultural traditions, the Haa Valley was closed to outsiders until just over a decade ago. Here we hike to exquisite 8th century temples nestled on wooded hillsides and share butter tea with the locals.
Days 3-6
Thimphu / Phobjikha Valley
In Thimphu, Bhutan’s tiny capital, our explorations include a hike up to Tango Monastery, a monastic school and retreat built in the 15th century, and a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum. Crossing the Dochu La (10,200'), marked by fluttering prayer flags, we arrive at the spectacular Wangdue Phodrang, a 17th century fortress perched on a spur above a river. In the alpine setting of the Phobjikha Valley (9,500'), we hike to the ethereal, golden-roofed Gangtey Monastery and, in November, have a chance to see migrating black-necked cranes.
Days 7-9
Punakha Valley / Paro
Our village-to-village hike in the Punakha Valley immerses us into this tranquil region of small farming hamlets set amid terraced rice and wheat fields. We also enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery and fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, a popular Tibetan Buddhist saint and folk hero. Another highlight is the architectural wonder of the 17th century Punakha Dzong, seat of the Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s highest lama. It is one of the most striking buildings in Bhutan, with a spectacular riverside setting. We return to Paro on Day 9.
Days 10-12
Paro
In lovely Paro, we hike up to Taktsang Monastery, the “Tiger’s Nest,” and explore the magnificent Paro Dzong. While here we attend the Paro Tsechu Festival, an exuberant celebration with monks performing elaborate masked dance-dramas. Depart on Day 12.
For a more complete description, Download Full Detailed Itinerary
Optional Extensions
If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:
- Temples of Angkor Extension (4 days)
- Laos: Luang Prabang Extension (3 days)
- Burma Extension (8 days)
- Bangkok Extension (3 days)
- Phuket Extension (4 days)
- Chiang Mai Extension (3 days)
What the Trip is Like
This trip is Level 2+, according to tour trip rating system. The hikes are moderate and suitable for people in good shape who enjoy mountain hiking. The longest hike is about 4-5 hours (optional hikes are longer), and for the most part you can set your own pace. Although you carry only a daypack, there are some steep ascents and descents, and the hikes are at moderate altitude, which can make them feel strenuous.
Departures & Leaders
Sep 11-22, 2013 Haa & Thimphu Festival
Nov 6-17, 2013 Wintering Cranes at Phobjikha
Apr 7-16, 2014 Paro Festival
Sep 30-Oct 9, 2014 Haa & Thimphu Festival
Nov 6-15, 2014 Black Neck Cranes Festival at Phobjikha
Trip Cost
Prices are for 2013
$5395 (4-15 members)
Single supplement: $1300
Forced single supplement: $1050
Internal airfare: $995 (subject to change)
Paro Festival Surcharge (March): $200
Paro Festival Single Supplement Surcharge (March): $100
Bhutan Visa Fee: $40 (WT acquires visa for you)
more on pricing
Extension Costs
Temples of Angkor Extension
from: $875
Laos: Luang Prabang Extension
from: $695
Burma Extension
from: $3050
Bangkok Extension
from: $595
Phuket Extension
from: $725
Chiang Mai Extension
from: $495
Trip Cost Includes:
- Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
- All accommodations; please note that rooms with double beds are usually not available in Bhutan. Most lodge rooms are twin-bedded.
- All meals included
- All government taxes and fees
- All land transportation, airport transfers for passengers as noted in the Full Trip Brochure
Trip Cost Does Not Include:
International airfare, hotels in Bangkok, airport transfers for individual arrival or departure, airport departure taxes, any meals not specified after each itinerary day in the Full Trip Brochure, optional tipping or gratuities to leaders or staff, additional hotel nights that may be necessary due to airline schedule changes or other factors, pre-trip expenses of medical immunizations (if any), travel insurance, or passports and visas; and other expenses of a personal nature (alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.).Rigsum Lodge
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Haa Valley, Bhutan
Rigsum Lodge, located in Haa, Bhutan’s westernmost valley, is a small, simple hotel on the outskirts of a tiny village. The twin-bedded rooms at the Rigsum have en suite bathrooms with hot-water showers. Meals are served buffet-style in a large central dining room.
Yongto Tented Camp
Days 2 to 3 (2 nights), Haa Valley, Bhutan
September and October departures only
Our lovely campsite features 10' x 10' walk-in tents furnished with sturdy US-made cots, ...
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Taj Tashi Hotel
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Thimphu, Bhutan
Part of the venerable Taj group of hotels in India, this 66-room hotel has all the conveniences of a luxury hotel, while at the same time reflects ...
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Yulo Guest House
Days 5 to 6 (2 nights), Phobjikha, Bhutan
This small, rustic country lodge with its classic Bhutanese architecture is set in a wonderfully remote location in one of Bhutan’s most pristine valleys. The rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with private bathrooms and showers. Please note that the electricity is generator-powered, available in the mornings and evenings. The staff can prepare a hot-water bottle to warm up your bed at night, a pleasant treat during Bhutan’s chilly evenings.
Punakha Valley Hotel
Days 7 to 8 (2 nights), Punakha Valley, Bhutan
In Punakha we stay at one of the following properties:
Zhiwa Ling Hotel
Days 9 to 11 (3 nights), Paro, Bhutan
Located on 10 acres in a serene setting in the green Paro Valley, the deluxe Zhiwa Ling is a wonderful example of traditional Bhutanese ...
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Extension Accommodations
If you would like to view the accommodations offered with our extensions options:
- Temples of Angkor Extension (4 days)
- Laos: Luang Prabang Extension (3 days)
- Burma Extension (8 days)
- Bangkok Extension (3 days)
- Phuket Extension (4 days)
- Chiang Mai Extension (3 days)
Note: Listed above are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
Kipchu Dorji
Kipchu Dorji, whose name translates to “Calm Water Thunderbolt,” was born in the village of Katsho in the Haa District of Bhutan. He studied at Dr. Graham’s School in Kalimpong, India. In his home country, he studied Buddhist iconography, culture, and history as well as botany to complete his professional guide training. Kipchu traveled to Salisbury, England, in 1990 for a leadership study program and has led countless trekking groups throughout Bhutan for the past 15 years.
Upcoming Trips:
Hidden Bhutan, September 11-22, 2013
Hidden Bhutan, October 15-26, 2013
Hidden Bhutan, November 6-17, 2013
Client Testimonials:
Kipchu is the best trip leader I have ever traveled with. He brought the local culture to life, making things easy to understand, and he has a wonderful calm spirit and great sense of humor.Kim M., Phoenix AZ
Hiker’s Bhutan
Kipchu must be the dean of Bhutan trip leaders. He was exceptional in every aspect you could think.Susasn M., Pittsburgh PA
Hiker’s Bhutan
Kipchu Dorji has a great sense of humor, patience, and modesty—the best guide I’ve ever had.Ann D., Santa Fe NM
Hiker’s Bhutan
Kipchu Dorji is a gracious and mindful host and guide, with great attention to detail. He has an easy interaction with staff and guests alike.Alix B., New York NY, Bhutan: The Chomolhari Trek
Kipchu was gentle, but firm, tactful, and so caring. A very wise man with a lovely sense of humor.Lorian J., Mamaroneck, NY
Hiker’s Bhutan
Kipchu made this trip. Wise, caring, thoughtful, and sensitive. One of the best trip leaders I’ve had in the seven walking trips I’ve taken.Joel J., Mamaroneck, NY
Hiker’s Bhutan
Kipchu made this trip an experience I will never forget. He is charming, knowledgeable, and warm.Joanne L, Long Beach CA
Hiker's Bhutan
We’re such fans—what can I say!Susan C., Florence, MA
Kipchu is one of the best guides I have had throughout my travels—extremely professional with attention to detail and true warmth and care. I will never forget how special he made this trip for our group.Karen M., Danbury, CT
Hidden Bhutan
Kipchu's attention to details, vast knowledge, and patience really made the trip.Bee Y., Brussels, Belgium
Hidden Bhutan
Optional Extensions
If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extensions:
Burma
Cambodia
Temples of Angkor Extension
Exploring the Glories of a Bygone Khmer Civilization
Cultural Adventures
4 days
-
Level 2
Laos
Laos: Luang Prabang Extension
Gilded Temples and Traditional Buddhist Culture of Laos
Cultural Adventures
3 days
-
Level 2
Myanmar
Thailand
Bangkok Extension
Discover the Beautiful Cultural Monuments of Bangkok
Cultural Adventures
3 days
-
Level 1
Chiang Mai Extension
Explore the Wonders of Northern Thailand
Cultural Adventures, Walking, Wildlife & Natural History
3 days
-
Level 2
Phuket Extension
Explore a Jewel Set in the Andaman Sea
Cultural Adventures, Sea Kayaking
4 days
-
Level 2
Client Comments
Wow! A life-changing trip that I will never forget.Joe H., Eastsound, WA
This trip was magical. It was so rich in spirituality, beauty, and friendliness. And amazing to visit a place still so untouched and pure in the native customs, costumes, and beliefs.Eliza S., Los Altos, CA
It was an extraordinary experience and the most exotic place I’d ever been. I was actually hiking in the Himalayas in a beautiful Buddhist country!Sharon L., Bellevue, WA
This was the most amazing trip I’ve ever done. The culture, the landscape, and the people were all amazing.Elizabeth K., Portland, ME
The trip of a lifetime...of many. It will be hard to top.Jennifer S., Lafayette, CO
It was a memorable trip and one we will remember forever.Alan L., Bellevue, WA
Bhutan was everything I hoped for and more, and this trip showcased its natural beauty and culture very well.Pamela G., Omaha, NE
We’re such fans—what can I say!Susan C., Florence, MA
Wonderful trip—I enjoyed it immensely! I completely lost track of the days (a sign of a good trip!) and found I was completely engaged in the experience and moment. I had wanted to go to Bhutan for a long time and the trip surpassed my expectations.Cathy H., Delaware, OH







