Hidden Bhutan

In the serene, secluded Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, spirituality permeates every aspect of daily life, traditional festivals are living manifestations of a national faith, and the king decrees “Gross National Happiness” as the standard by which to measure the country’s wealth. Our hiking adventure showcases Bhutan's incredible beauty as we hike to tiny villages of whitewashed homes, through magical forests, and up to mountainside chortens (shrines) bedecked with prayer flags. Along the way we meet pilgrims, farmers, and red-robed monks, explore colorful markets, and marvel at the Shangri La setting of sublime fortress-monasteries reigning over wooded valleys. Most departures feature colorful Tsechu festivals, complete with traditional mask dances; the November departure offers a chance to see the rare black-necked cranes that winter in the high Phobjikha Valley.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Paro / Haa Valley

Arriving in Paro, we head to the mountain-ringed Haa Valley in westernmost Bhutan. The Haa Valley has only been open to foreign travelers since 2001, and in this deeply traditional cultural enclave, we hike to exquisite 8th century temples nestled on wooded hillsides and share butter tea with the locals.

Days 4-6
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. We also visit the Folk Heritage Museum, housed in a 17th century Bhutanese house of rammed earth and timber. A drive across the Dochu La Pass (10,200'), marked by fluttering prayer flags, brings us to the Phobjikha Valley at 9,500 feet. In this alpine setting, 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 / Thimphu

En route to the Punakha Valley, we visit the spectacular Wangdue Phodrang, a 17th century fortress perched on a spur above a river. In Punakha, our village-to-village hike brings us into a tranquil region of small farming hamlets set amid terraced rice and wheat fields. We also enjoy a hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery and fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint and folk hero known popularly as “the divine madman” for his unconventional ways. 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 Thimphu on Day 9.

Days 10-12
Paro

In lovely Paro, we hike up to the Taktsang Monastery, the “Tiger’s Nest,” and explore the magnificent Paro Dzong. Depart on Day 12.

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What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 3+. The hikes are moderate and suitable for people in good shape who enjoy mountain hiking. The longest hike is about 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. Although Bhutan is a Himalayan country, it is in a southern latitude so it can get quite warm in the sun. For your own enjoyment, we recommend you make a special effort to be in good physical condition for the journey.

Our accommodations range from rustic to deluxe. The Zhiwa Ling Hotel in Paro and the Taj Tashi in Thimphu are deluxe and offer a great deal of comfort, while the lodges in Punakha, the Haa Valley, and the Phobjikha Valley are well situated and cozy but somewhat rustic.

Explanation of Trip Levels