DAY 1:  ARRIVAL PARO – THIMPHU

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Paro International Airport, where your private guide and driver will meet you before embarking on the scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. As you settle into your luxurious surroundings, take time to relax and embrace the peaceful rhythm of the Kingdom.

In the evening, experience a traditional Butter Lamp Offering, an intimate spiritual ceremony symbolising the dispelling of darkness and the cultivation of wisdom and peace. Return to your luxury retreat for a tranquil evening and a restful night. Overnight: Thimphu

DAY 2: THIMPHU – WELLNESS, CULTURE & HIMALAYAN VIEWS

Begin your morning with a rejuvenating yoga session, allowing your body and mind to gently acclimatise to Bhutan’s altitude. After breakfast, set out to discover the cultural heart of Thimphu. Visit the magnificent Buddha Dordenma, one of Bhutan’s most recognisable landmarks, before continuing to the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s unusual national animal.  At the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, known as the Painting School, discover the traditional arts and crafts that have been preserved for generations. Continue to the Textile Office to learn about Bhutan’s renowned weaving traditions.  Return to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Later, visit Pangrizampa Astrology Institute, where you can discover the fascinating role of traditional astrology in Bhutanese life and culture. Return to your luxury hotel for a relaxed afternoon. For those seeking deeper relaxation, an indulgent spa and massage treatment can be arranged at the hotel at an additional cost. Overnight: Thimphu

DAY 3: THIMPHU – DOCHULA – PUNAKHA

Depart Thimphu and journey towards the lush Punakha Valley. Along the way, pause at the spectacular Dochula Pass, where 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens stand against a magnificent Himalayan backdrop. On clear days, the snow-covered peaks stretch across the horizon. From Dochula, follow an ancient trail towards Lamperi, hiking through peaceful mountain forests and enjoying the changing landscape. Continue to the Botanical Park, where you can pause for a refreshing tea break near Baritsho before taking a gentle walk around this tranquil setting. On arrival at Sobsokha village, enjoy a scenic walk through clustered village towards the Fertility temple. Later, descend into the warmer Punakha Valley and check into your luxury retreat, surrounded by rice fields, forests and mountains. Overnight: Punakha

DAY 4: PUNAKHA – SACRED VALLEYS & RIVER ADVENTURE

Begin the day with a scenic hike through the Punakha Valley to the beautiful Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, perched above the valley with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, experience a different side of Bhutan with an exhilarating white-water rafting journey along the Mo Chhu River. Flowing through lush Himalayan landscapes, the river offers an exciting yet scenic adventure. Later, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most important architectural treasures, beautifully situated at the meeting point of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Continue across the country’s longest suspension bridge, taking in the spectacular valley views. As evening falls, visit a local nunnery and join the nuns for a peaceful prayer session, offering a deeply personal glimpse into Bhutan’s living Buddhist traditions. Overnight: Punakha

DAY 5: PUNAKHA – PARO – THE ART OF BHUTANESE LIVING

Today, journey west towards the beautiful Paro Valley. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Bhutan’s spiritual artistry at the Mandala Display Centre, where you will discover the intricate symbolism of Buddhist mandalas. Take part in a hands-on coloured sand Mandala Creation Experience, learning how these intricate designs are carefully created as expressions of devotion and impermanence. Later, step into local life with a visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Meet a local family, taste authentic Bhutanese dishes and participate in a Bhutanese cooking experience, discovering the flavours and traditions behind the country’s cuisine. Return to your luxury lodge in Paro and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the valley’s timeless beauty. Overnight: Paro

DAY 6:TIGER’S NEST – WELLNESS & BHUTANESE TRADITIONS

Today brings the defining experience of your Bhutan journey: the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Set out early for the hike through fragrant pine forests and along dramatic mountain trails towards Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside above Paro Valley. Take time to explore this sacred pilgrimage site and appreciate the remarkable landscape surrounding it. Return to your lodge after the hike and unwind with a traditional Bhutanese hot-stone bath, allowing the warmth of the mineral-rich water to soothe tired muscles. Later, enjoy a private archery experience, Bhutan’s national sport, at your luxury lodge. Spend your final evening at leisure, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Paro. Overnight: Paro

DAY 7: PARO – HERITAGE, HELICOPTER & BLESSINGS

On your final morning, visit the National Museum of Bhutan, housed within the historic Ta Dzong and overlooking Paro Valley. Explore its fascinating collection before taking to the skies on a spectacular 30-minute helicopter experience, offering a unique perspective of Bhutan’s valleys, mountains and Himalayan landscapes. Return to Paro for a meaningful Long-Life Blessing Ceremony, receiving traditional Buddhist blessings for health, longevity and prosperity. Afternoon for a leisure time to stroll around the beautiful traditional town of Paro. Overnight: Paro

DAY 8: PARO – DEPARTURE

Your private transfer will then take you to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, bringing your luxurious Bhutan experience to a graceful close.

Package Inclusions

• Airport transfers and transportation throughout the tour.
• All meals as specified in the itinerary.
• Bottled drinking water during sightseeing and transfers.
• An experienced English-speaking guide throughout the journey.
• Bhutan visa and visa processing fees.
• Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and applicable government taxes.
• Sightseeing and entrance fees for monuments and attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
• Short hikes and packed lunches where required.
• Accommodation at luxury 5 stars hotels

Package Exclusions

• International and domestic airfares.
• Travel insurance.
• Beverages and bottled water consumed at hotels or outside the included meals.
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and other service providers. These are entirely at the guest’s discretion and may be given based on the quality of service received.
• Personal expenses and any services not specifically mentioned under Package Inclusions.
• Bank/wire transfer fees and credit card transaction or processing fees.
• Anything that not mentioned in the inclusions

Cancellation Policy

To confirm your Bhutan tour booking with Rustic Frontiers, a minimum of 50% of the total tour cost must be paid upon confirmation and prior to your arrival in Bhutan.

In the event of cancellation, refunds will be processed after deducting the applicable cancellation charges outlined below. Bhutan Airlines, Drukair and luxury hotels may have separate reservation, cancellation and refund policies, which will apply in addition to the tour cancellation policy. Any bank or wire transfer charges associated with a refund will be deducted from the refundable amount.

Cancellation Charges

Important: All cancellation requests must be submitted to Rustic Frontiers in writing by email and are subject to confirmation and approval by Rustic Frontiers. The applicable cancellation period will be determined by the date the cancellation request is received and approved.

Airline tickets, luxury hotel reservations and other services with separate cancellation policies will be subject to the respective supplier’s terms and conditions.