Bhutan Private Journey

This trip includes short to moderate walks on uneven and rocky terrain to monasteries, villages, and scenic viewpoints. Trails typically follow stone paths and mountain tracks through, often with steady uphill sections. The most notable hike is the climb to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, which follows a forested trail up a steep mountainside to the famous cliff-side temple high above the Paro Valley.

For your own enjoyment, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition for the journey.

The spring and fall seasons are the most popular times to visit the Kingdom. Bhutan's climate varies enormously and like much of your adventure in the Himalayas it will be quite unpredictable. Spring and fall temperatures in the Thimphu and Paro valleys range from 60 to 80°F but colder spells are not unusual. Winter daytime temperatures in the valleys average 60°F during clear winter days but drop well below freezing during the night. Mid-December to early January can be a beautifully clear and dry time in western Bhutan. Light snow will often dust Thimphu and Paro in winter, and occasionally there will be heavy snowstorms. Punakha and the central valleys are lower in elevation and tend to be a few degrees warmer. The autumn season, late September through November, is usually very mild and clear. While fall colors surround and embrace your senses, the sky is often at its clearest, affording magnificent views of the Himalaya range.

Most of the accommodations in Bhutan are somewhat rustic but very charming, and we've chosen some of the country's most well situated hotels/lodges for this journey. Please note that most hotel rooms are twin-bedded. Optional upgrades are available. All are luxurious, stylish 5-star retreats featuring beautifully appointed rooms decorated with traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, and relaxing spa facilities with Asian-inspired therapies.

Meals are included as noted in the detailed itinerary (dinners are not included at upgraded hotels unless prearranged). Generally, you will eat breakfast on your own at the lodge before meeting your guide for the day's activities. Your guides may join you for some lunches and dinners, depending on the schedule and your preference. Please be aware that many hotels/lodges in Bhutan provide simple buffets at lunch and dinner. The cuisine in Bhutan is generally based on basic rice with stir-fry and stew options. If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to advise us on your application form.

We will be going to high elevation on this trip. It is not uncommon to experience headache, nausea, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, shortness of breath, and fatigue at altitude. These can occur when you first arrive at higher elevations and usually decrease in severity with time. We have designed this itinerary to allow for appropriate rest and acclimatization, but for your own enjoyment, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. While on trip, be sure to drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty, and avoid pushing yourself too hard, however physically fit you may be or feel. You may want to consult with your physician about bringing medication to prevent altitude sickness, such as Diamox. You can learn more about altitude and how to prepare for it in our video linked here.