Bhutan Tours & Holidays
Small Group Tours & Tailor-Made Holidays
Bhutan 1/18
Bumthang 2/18
Thimphu 3/18
Gangtey 4/18
Paro 5/18
Thimphu 6/18
Trashigang 7/18
Gangtey 8/18
Punakha 9/18
Paro 10/18
Gangtey 11/18
Thimphu 12/18
Paro 13/18
Bumthang 14/18
Thimphu 15/18
Thimphu 16/18
Mongar 17/18
Phobjika 18/18
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Overview
With our passage through the bridge, behold a curious transformation. For just as Alice, when she walked through the looking-glass, found herself in a new and whimsical world, so we, when we crossed the Pa-chhu, found ourselves as though caught up on some magic time machine fitted fantastically with reverse, flung back across the centuries into the feudalism of a medieval age. So wrote the Earl of Ronaldshay upon entering Bhutan in 1923. Nearly a century later and those words still hold true, ...
With our passage through the bridge, behold a curious transformation. For just as Alice, when she walked through the looking-glass, found herself in a new and whimsical world, so we, when we crossed the Pa-chhu, found ourselves as though caught up on some magic time machine fitted fantastically with reverse, flung back across the centuries into the feudalism of a medieval age. So wrote the Earl of Ronaldshay upon entering Bhutan in 1923. Nearly a century later and those words still hold true, as you find yourself crossing into the Land of the Thunder Dragon and leaving your own world behind. Squashed amongst the high mountain landscapes that lie between Nepal, Tibet and Northeastern India, Bhutan was cut off from the outside world for centuries, cocooning its people and traditions in a bubble of time that has changed little in the past 500 years. Perched spectacularly atop high cliffs, its magnificent 17th century dzongs (monasteries) stand sentinel over a land filled with colourful festivals and story-telling, forested hills and demons. Home to a gentle and charming people and a rich diversity of wild plants and animals that includes more than 600 species of orchid alone, the sheer scale of its beauty and spirit will leave you breathless.
Start your journey
Group tours
Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon
Visit Thimpu, Tiger's Nest Monastery, Punakha Monastery, take in a festival and enjoy homestays.TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Classic Bhutan
A wonderful itinerary that explores the main highlights of this Himalayan kingdom. Taking in the regions of western Bhutan, you'll explore fascinating sites and stunning countryside with beautifully curated experiences.
Bhutan In Style
A luxury journey through the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, this trip offers an insight into the beautiful monasteries, majestic Dzongs, picturesque rural landscapes and local cultural way of life, all whilst staying in the best properties.
Complete Bhutan
This two-week adventure explores most of the country, from the highlights to more remote areas that have barely changed in 500 years, giving you an insight into a fascinating history, stunning rural mountain scenery, and local people whose culture will leave you captivated.
Bhutan Family Adventure
Bhutan is the perfect destination for a family adventure, with an abundance of culture and activities. You can enjoy walks and bike rides in the countryside, go camping, learn archery and have some much-needed downtime.HIGHLIGHTS OF BHUTAN
BEST EXPERIENCES
Hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery
The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of the most famous and sacred of Bhutan’s monasteries, built on a rock ledge a thousand metres above the valley floor. Hike to the monastery, soak up the views and partake in a prayer ceremony
Learn to cook Bhutan's national dish
Take a cooking class at a local restaurant hosted by a team of chefs who will demonstrate some local delicacies. You'll learn to make the national dish of Bhutan - the fiery ‘Emma Datshi’ made with chilies and local Bhutanese cheese, which you can then devour
Make sand mandalas with a monk
Visit a local monastery to be shown the ancient art of sand mandala, designed to cleanse the soul and liberate it towards enlightenment. The monks create an intricate pattern from sand which symbolises the unity of life, and then will help you make your own
Visit Gangtey Monastery
A complex of five temples surrounding a central tower, the Gangtey Monastery, founded in 1613, is situated above the picturesque Phobjikha Valley. The village here is inhabited mainly by the families of the 140-strong priest community who look after it
Peruse the weekend market
Explore the fascinating and famous weekend market of Thimphu, one of the largest farmers markets in Bhutan, with produce brought here from all over the country. You'll find everything from dried fish and wild honey to textiles and local handicrafts
Enjoy a farmhouse lunch with locals
Get a glimpse into village life by enjoying a locally-sourced meal with a family in Punakha. Make friends in a traditionally decorated, colourful Bhutanese farmhouse, made entirely out of stone and mud, and trade stories with your hosts!
Marvel at black-necked cranes
Every October, one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan, the Phobjikha Valley plays host to the Black-necked Cranes flying in from Tibet to escape winter. They circle the Gangtey Monastery three times before landing amongst the protected marshlands
Explore the Tang Valley
Pema Lingpa, the famous saint, was born in the Tang Valley of Bumthang. Past the Dechenpelrithang sheep farm, you can find a path lined with prayer flags which leads you to a gorge where the river forms a pool and you can discover his image carved on the rock
Hike to Cheri Goemba
Trek to Cheri Goemba, a monastery built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620 and where he spent many years in meditation. Cheri today has numerous hermitages and small temples located on its slopes, commanding spectacular viewsTOP PLACES TO VISIT
Bumthang
The sacred heart of Bhutan, Bumthang is made up of four separate valleys that are blessed with some of the country’s most revered settings and ancient temples. It was to here that Guru Rimpoche first ...
Gangtey
The Phobjika Valley is a broad, fertile glacial trough that occupies the landscapes of central Bhutan. Wonderfully scenic and home to the stunning 17th century Gangtey Monastery, this area is the main ...
Paro
The Paro Valley is a wide and verdant region of west Bhutan, recognized as one of the most beautiful in the whole country; it's also home to the country's only airport and therefore forms a natural stop ...
Punakha
The country’s former capital, Punakha lies amongst the fertile valleys of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers, where the surrounding farmlands produce oranges, bamboo and rice. Overshadowing this lush landscape ...
Thimphu
The Bhutanese capital lies along the western banks of the Wang Chhu River, amongst the valleys and woodlands of the western central part of the country. The political and economic heart of the country,...
OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY
Amankora Bumthang, Bumthang
Located in the centre of the Bumthang valley, Amankora Bumthang comprises 16 luxurious suites in four separate areas. Each features a traditional bukhari stove, king-sized beds, a terrazzo-clad bath,…
Amankora Gangtey, Gangtey
You won't miss your TV or swimming pool at Amankora Gangtey. The wooden walls, fireplace, cosy beds and incredible views and walks outside will keep you occupied. In fact, with the farmer's hot stone…
Naksel Resort & Spa, Paro
Naksel Resort & Spa is a community based, eco-friendly and energy efficient project that blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern comforts and amenities. The main construction materials…
Six Senses Paro, Paro
The latest luxury addition to Paro, Six Senses Paro is located on a hill at the elevation of 2670 metres, with commanding views of the valley below. This luxury lodge offers 20 spacious and…
Six Senses Thimphu, Thimphu
The Six Senses at Thimphu is set within apple orchards and is surrounded by pine forests, located at 2,645 metres, with dramatic views of Thimphu valley and the mountains beyond. The indoor spaces and…
Taj Tashi, Thimphu
Blending Bhutan's Dzong architecture with modern design, the Taj Tashi is Thimpu's most luxurious five star Hotel. Deep in the valley, its 66 rooms look out onto the city, forested hillside and…
Uma Punakha, Punakha
The ideal retreat for travellers in search of peace and adventure, this exquisite luxury lodge is set deep in the Uma Punakha Valley overlooking the Mo Chu river. Two villas and nine rooms with large…Discover more
WHEN TO GO
Punakha
Trashigang
Thimphu
INSPIRATION
BHUTAN - BUDDHIST PRAYER TIME IN BUMTHANG
Wild Frontiers guide, Amada Drake, captures a Buddhist prayer and chanting session in Bumthang Bhutan. For more information about adventure holidays and travelling in Bhutan visit http://www.wildf…
Christmas in Bhutan with Wild Frontiers
We meet in Delhi: nine travellers arrive from different countries and of various ages and professions, all with the common desire to experience Bhutan. For me a long-held interest in Buddhist culture and love of remote mountainous terrain has led to a yearning to come here – but will it live up to expectations?
What to see and do in Bhutan
From cultural performances to amazing sights, here are our best things to see and do in Bhutan.
Things to Know about Bhutan
Bhutan is a largely unknown country by many westerners. The country is far different than many of its neighbors and the culture is extremely unique. Whether you are planning a trip Bhutan or simply interested in this fascinating nation, here are some things to know about Bhutan.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
USEFUL INFORMATION
Health and Vaccinations
There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to Bhutan though you should be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. Malaria is present in some parts of Bhutan. Please note we are not medical professionals and so we highly recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.
Currency
In Bhutan the official unit of currency is the Bhutanese Nu. This is a closed currency and can only be exchanged in country.
To check out the latest exchange rate for the places that you are visiting you can go to www.oanda.com.
Cultural Sensitivity
Bhutan is the only country on the planet where Buddhism is the state religion, and as a result the people are outstandingly laid-back and friendly.
Whilst visiting the Dzongs men will need to wear a collared shirt (either full or half sleeved), and both sexes must wear full-length trousers/skirt and shoes. You will not be allowed to enter if you are wearing hats, shorts or short skirts, flip-flops or regular t-shirts.
On our tours we frequently interact with local people, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. We therefore ask you to be considerate and to treat them with respect. Your guides will be able to advise you accordingly.
Language & Religion
In Bhutan, the official language is Dzongkha with many regional dialects so that, as in India, English is often used to overcome regional language problems.
The Drukpa Kagyupa sect of Buddhism is the official ‘state’ religion, with some monasteries still following the Nyingmapa School, both of which are disciplines of Mahayana Buddhism. The law provides for freedom of religion and thus the many ethnic Nepalese who live in the south of Bhutan practice Hinduism.
Time
Bhutan is 5 hours ahead of GMT.
A useful website to check the time zone differences is www.worldtimezone.com.
Food and drink
In Bhutan spicy chillies (ema) and cheese (datshi) blended with a wide variety of vegetables, meats, poultry and fish are found on many Bhutanese menus. Red rice is the staple food (like brown rice in texture, but with a nutty taste – the only variety of rice that grows at high altitudes), but Bhutanese are very fond of meat, especially dried meat.
Favourite beverages include butter tea, locally brewed rice wine and beer; the local beer is called Chang. Bhutanese also drink Arra, home-brewed alcohol distilled from rice, maize, wheat, or barley.
BHUTAN REVIEWS
Daniel Galvin
Travelling with WILD FRONTIERS to Bhutan was an inspiration. I have 100% trust in them and their ability, through great…
Edgar and Mary Green
Bhutan represents a special culture to be experienced for it's colour of dress and buildings
Debbie Barnes
The philosophy seems to be to "go that extra mile" yet the easy-going, personal touch clearly belies a professional and…
Tim Turnbull
I can't imagine having been guided through Bhutan by better hands than those of Wild Frontiers.
Richard Ferens
A trip to Bhutan is a wonderful experience but above all it makes one realise that there is so much more to life than the…
Jo Checketts
I totally enjoyed the atmosphere of the trip - the chance to see and feel the countryside, the people and the culture of…
Graham Craig
Thanks for leading an enjoyable, exhausting, stimulating and wonderful trip to India and Bhutan.
Wonkie Hills
Words cannot begin to describe just how magical my two weeks with Wild Frontiers were.
Victoria Russell
Fantastic views, delicious food, exciting horse festivals, wonderful shopping, a botanists dream and much MUCH more!
Susan Leadley
This was a truly amazing trip. I was bowled over by Bhutani's beautiful scenery,the fascinating Buddhist culture and it's…
Jan Pickering
Christmas in Bhutan has to be the most magical ever. Just as we thought "wow" nothing can beat this, we turned a corner…
Robert Akester
Thanks to Wild Frontiers for helping me to accomplish a long held dream to visit this beautiful country....
Jackie Brown
An incredible country with amazing people and beautiful scenery
Sue Bathurst
Best at combining adventure with culture. It wasn't cheap but it was worth every penny. It shouldn't be missed
Jason Smith
Bhutan was a perfect split between seeing and experiencing the country and horse riding
Alastair Craig
We were impressed by the way you created the ideal Bhutan experience for us
Eileen Waddington
If you have a sense of adventure do visit Bhutan!
Steven Waller
Expect the unexpected.
Catherine Wilkinson
My first Wild Frontiers trip blew my expectations away - I'm not sure I'll be able to cope travelling with other…