Bhutan For The Active Traveler

Discover the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” where sacred monasteries cling to cliffs and Himalayan peaks rise above peaceful valleys. This unforgettable journey blends cultural immersion, scenic hikes, and engaging CME sessions in one of the world’s most enchanting countries.

Hiking times and activities are approximate and may vary based on weather, trail conditions, or local festivals. Internal flight schedules are also subject to change.

DAY 1: Paro / Thimphu Arrive in the emerald-green Paro Valley and drive to the capital, Thimphu, stopping en route at Tachog Lhakhang—the ancient temple and iron bridge of legendary builder Thangtong Gyalpo. After lunch in Thimphu, visit the spectacular Giant Buddha (Buddha Dordenma) overlooking the valley.

DAY 2: Tango Monastery A forest hike through oak and rhododendron leads to the centuries-old Tango Monastery, offering colorful courtyards and panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Visit a local sanctuary for Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.
Hike: ~3 hours

DAY 3: Dochula Pass / Punakha Travel over the scenic Dochula Pass, with views of Himalayan peaks and more than 100 chortens. Hike to the hilltop Lungchuzekha Monastery, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags, then descend into the warmer Punakha Valley to visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous fertility temple.
Hike: 3-4 hours

DAY 4: Punakha Valley Hike to the Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten, a beautifully ornate shrine built by Bhutan’s royal family, then visit the stunning Punakha Dzong—the “Palace of Great Happiness”—set at the confluence of the Mo and Po rivers.
Hike: ~3 hours

DAY 5: Punakha / Trongsa A scenic drive climbs to Pele La Pass (11,220 ft), one of Bhutan’s highest passes and the traditional divide between western and central Bhutan. From here we hike a section of the Trans Bhutan Trail, descending through alpine meadows toward Longtey Village and watching for remote yak-herder camps along the way. After lunch we continue to Trongsa, ancestral home of the royal family, pausing at the striking 19th-century Chendebji Chorten before touring Trongsa Dzong, the longest dzong in Bhutan.
Hike: 1.5-2 hours

DAY 6: Trongsa / Bumthang Visit the Trongsa museum, then drive up to the Tharpaling monastery,which is approximately at 12,600 feet. Hike all the way down to Kikila pass and drive to Bumthang.
Hike: ~4 hours

DAY 7: Bumthang Hike Follow riverside trails through meadows and pine forests to the village of Thangbi, visiting centuries-old temples such as Jambay and Kurje, sacred sites of early Bhutanese Buddhism.
Hike: ~3 hours

DAY 8: Tang Valley Journey into the scenic Tang Valley to Mebar Tsho, the sacred “Burning Lake,” where treasure-revealer Pema Lingpa is said to have surfaced with a still-burning butter lamp. Visit the peaceful Pemacholing Nunnery to watch the nuns craft traditional ritual offerings, then sample unfiltered weiss beer and local cheeses at a Swiss-run brewery in the heart of Bumthang.

DAY 9: Fly to Paro A morning flight returns us to Paro, where we visit the National Museum and the magnificent 17th-century Paro Rinpung Dzong before strolling through Paro town at our own pace.

DAY 10: Taktsang (“Tiger’s Nest”) Hike through pine forests festooned with prayer flags to Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery, Taktsang—one of the most breathtaking sacred sites in the Himalaya. Lunch at a teahouse offers stunning views of the temple.
Hike: 3-4 hours

DAY 11: Depart Transfer to Paro Airport for flights via Bangkok, carrying memories of Bhutan’s beauty and serenity.