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Signature: Bhutan & The High Himalayan Valleys
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Length
8 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Thimphu (Bhutan)
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Ends in
Paro (Bhutan)
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Available Tour Start Dates
MAY 22, 2027 to NOV 27, 2027
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic
Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$7,499.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Venture through the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," where ancient spirituality and modern mindfulness converge in the high Himalayas. From the winding trails of the Tiger's Nest to private audiences with governance insiders, discover a nation defined by its heritage. Connect with local artisans and monks to witness the living soul of Bhutan.
Visited During Tour
Paro (Bhutan) | Punakha (Bhutan) | Thimphu (Bhutan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: Bhutan & The High Himalayan Valleys tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code ADPPNS-11354
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Day
1Thimphu
Welcome to the heart of the Himalayas. Upon landing in the valley of Paro, you are met by a representative and transferred through emerald landscapes to Thimphu, the kingdom's capital. Settle into your hotel or choose to visit the Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts, where students master traditional disciplines from painting to woodcarving. Later, join your National Geographic Expedition Leader for a welcome briefing, followed by a presentation from your National Geographic Expedition Expert that introduces the rich spiritual and cultural context of the days to come. Take a short walk to the Centenary Farmers Market, where the scent of fresh chilies and incense fills the air as locals trade produce and handicrafts. Conclude your first evening with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the bold, spicy flavors of authentic Bhutanese cuisine.
Please book any arriving flights to land by 2pm.
- Meals Included:
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Arrival Transfer
On arrival, take a private transfer to Thimphu. If you are arriving in time for lunch, lunch will be provided at the hotel at your own leisure.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Orientation walk to Centenary Farmers Market
Experience the Centenary Farmers Market, Bhutan's lively local marketplace where farmers and artisans gather to showcase fresh seasonal produce, traditional ingredients, and handcrafted goods.
Accommodations: Pemako Thimphu -
Day
2Thimphu
Begin the morning at the base of the Buddha Dordenma Statue, where the golden figure gleams against the sky, offering panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Follow forest paths on a gentle hike to Wangditse Monastery, breathing in the scent of pine and crisp mountain air - or simply stay put and soak in the sweeping mountain views at your own pace. Later, visit VAST, a G Adventures supported project and social enterprise dedicated to contemporary art. Walk through the gallery with a senior artist to understand how modern storytelling merges with traditional symbolism. Engage in a roundtable discussion with resident artists about art's role in modern Bhutanese identity before a behind-the-scenes look at works in progress over herbal tea. End the day at a women-operated weaving center, watching as vibrant threads are transformed into intricate textiles.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Buddha Point Visit
After a short drive, begin the day with a visit to Buddha Point. Buddha Point is home to Thimphu's most recognized landmark, the Buddha Dordenma. Guarding the entry to the Thimphu valley, this 51-meter (167ft) gilded bronze statue is filled with 125,000 miniature statues and sits atop a three-storey base housing a chapel and thousands of donated statuettes. The statue was commissioned to mark His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck's 60th birthday and was originally made in China before being transported to Thimphu in pieces. The massive Buddha statue in Thimphu made of bronze and gold. Take lots of pictures - it's beautiful!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit Wangditse Monastery
Enjoy a gentle walk along a flat dirt path with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and take in sweeping panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Upon arrival, spend about an hour exploring the serene Wangditse Monastery, soaking in its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
Contemporary Art Visit at VAST
Explore Bhutan's modern art scene at a social enterprise with private artist talks.
Visit Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Center
Learn about Bhutan's self-sufficient weaving tradition, using nettle fiber, cotton, and yak and sheep wool, and enjoy a live weaving demonstration by skilled craftsmen.
Free Time
Return to the hotel for free time to relax or wander around Thimphu town at your leisure.
Accommodations: Pemako Thimphu -
Day
3Thimphu/Punakha
Today, participate in a private discussion on Geluphu Mindfulness City with the Project Coordinator to explore the spiritual vision and monastic construction of this landmark initiative. Afterward, ascend to Dochula Pass, where 108 memorial chortens stand against a backdrop of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Descend into the fertile Punakha Valley and walk through terraced rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a revered fertility temple steeped in local folklore. As the afternoon light softens, enjoy a guided stroll through Punakha town, observing the quiet rhythm of valley life before gathering for dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Mindfulness City Discussion
Join the Project Coordinator of Geluphu Mindfulness City (GMC) for a conversation on the spiritual foundations and future vision of this groundbreaking city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Punakha Valley Excursion
Discover Punakha Valley, stopping at Dochula Pass for Himalayan views and visiting Chimi Lhakhang Temple for local rituals and blessings
Chimi Lhakhang Visit
Take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the "Divine Madman." Built in 1499, it is mainly visited today by women as it is known as the temple of fertility.
Visit Punakha Town & Local Market
Join your expedition leader for a walk around Punakha town and the local market.
Accommodations: Lobesa Boutique Hotel -
Day
4Punakha
Marvel at the Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture situated at the confluence of two rivers. Cross the country's longest suspension bridge, where colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze, before joining a local family for a home-hosted lunch. This intimate encounter offers a window into rural life and the warmth of valley hospitality. In the afternoon, visit the Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, a leading Buddhist college for women. Settle into the quiet rhythm of the evening with time to yourself before gathering for a dinner at the hotel, where the local flavours of the valley take centre stage.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Punakha Dzong Visit
Visit Punakha Dzong, the winter seat of the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body, remarkably located between the rivers of the Mo (female) Chu and Pho (male) Chu. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong (fortress) in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures, housing many sacred relics. It is also the winter capital of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot). Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in around 1637. Arguably, it is the most beautiful Dzong in the country. The Dzong guards Bhutan's most treasured relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani, an image of Chenresig kept away from the public in the utse (tower). It has survived Tibetan invasions, numerous fires, floods and a glacial lake burst. The Dzong served as the capital and seat of the Bhutanese Government until the early 1950s; and the coronation of the His Majesty the First Druk, Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck, took place here.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Lunch with Local Family in Punakha Valley
Visit a local farmhouse to share a meal and experience everyday life rooted in the Punakha Valley's seasonal, family, and agricultural traditions.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Enjoy a drive and visit to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and Temple complex. Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking the 3 Valleys of Toebesa, Punakha and Wangdi Phodrang, the complex is a meditation and traditional arts training center for nuns. Enjoy the peace and quiet and learn about the nunnery which was established by the Royal Grandfather.
Accommodations: Lobesa Boutique Hotel -
Day
5Punakha
Travel into the high-altitude Phobjikha Valley, a protected wetland and a serene haven for conservation. Explore the historic Gangtey Monastery before continuing to the community-supported Taphu Monastery. Here, enjoy private access and a warm welcome from the monastery representatives. Share a quiet lunch with the resident monks in the monastery cafe, learning about their daily rituals and the monastery's history. The afternoon features a rare private prayer and longevity blessing ceremony led by the monks. This spiritual ritual, focused on promoting wisdom and compassion, offers a profound moment of reflection amidst the stillness of the mountains before you return for dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Phobjikha Valley Excursion
Journey to Phobjikha Valley, a stunning glacial valley and high-altitude wetland nestled on the western slopes of Bhutan's Black Mountains. This pristine landscape is one of the country's most important conservation areas and a vital biological corridor between two of Bhutan's largest national parks.
Gangtey Goempa Monastery Visit
Enjoy a visit to the monastery of Gangtey Goempa, built in the 16th century and renovated and consecrated in 2008. Be sure to check out the amazing relics inside -- they're said to be the most sacred in all of Bhutan. The architectural design is impressive, too.
Taphu Monastery Blessing
Share lunch with resident monks before a private prayer and longevity ceremony.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Lobesa Boutique Hotel -
Day
6Punakha/Paro
Journey back toward Paro, stopping for a local lunch as the landscape shifts from fertile valleys to rugged hills. In the afternoon, visit the Jangsa Electricity Museum, uniquely housed in the nation's first mini hydropower station. Trace Bhutan's fascinating transition from pre-electric life to its current standing as a leader in modern sustainability and renewable energy. Arrive in Paro and settle in, perhaps taking a moment to wander the town's main street where traditional carved storefronts house small boutiques and workshops. As the sun sets behind the peaks, retreat to the hotel for a quiet evening. Enjoy a prepared dinner at the hotel featuring local seasonal ingredients, allowing time to rest and prepare for tomorrow's physical ascent while reflecting on the layers of history and innovation you have witnessed.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit Jangsa Electrical Museum
After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Jangsa Electrical Museum, housed in a mini hydel plant commissioned by Bhutan's Third King in 1968, showcasing early electricity use and modern smart homes.
Accommodations: Dawa at Hilltop -
Day
7Paro
Embark on a rewarding hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, where the scent of pine and the sound of spinning prayer wheels guide your ascent. Follow a winding jungle trail upward to a mountain cafe for a break and a stunning view of the temple complex clinging to a sheer cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. Choose to stop here or continue along the track before finally climbing the stone stairs to the inner sanctuaries, where Guru Rimpoche is said to have meditated. For those seeking a gentler pace, choose to visit the National Museum followed by a local archery game, the national sport of Bhutan. As the sun sets, gather for a farewell dinner and wrap-up presentation, celebrated with a mesmerizing masked dance performance, a final tribute to the vibrant spirit of Bhutan.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Tiger’s Nest Ascent
Climb the mist-shrouded trails to the iconic cliffside monastery where history meets spiritualism.
Free Time
After lunch, return to the hotel for free time to explore at your own pace-visit historic sites, museums, or enjoy last-minute shopping. The choice is yours!
Expert Wrap-Up Presentation
Conclude your journey with a wrap-up presentation from your Expedition Leader.
Accommodations: Dawa at Hilltop -
Day
8Paro
Your expedition through the hidden kingdom of Bhutan concludes this morning. After breakfast, enjoy a final look at the prayer flags dancing in the wind and the surrounding mountain peaks. An airport departure transfer is provided for your onward travels. Reflect on the blessings, the quiet wisdom of the monks, and the vibrant artistic spirit you encountered while traversing the pathways of this enduring Himalayan nation.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Transfer
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Bhutan & The High Himalayan Valleys tour:
Paro
Dawa at Hilltop
Location
Dawa At Hilltop by Heeton, Dobara, Bondey, Near Paro International Airport
Paro, Bhutan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Punakha
Lobesa Boutique Hotel
Location
GV6G+CG, Lobesa - Metsina, Bhutan
Punakha, Bhutan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Thimphu
Pemako Thimphu
Location
155 Norzin Zur Lam 17 Se, Samten Lam
Thimphu, Bhutan-11001
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Bhutan & The High Himalayan Valleys tour:
Group Size
Max 22
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Contemporary Art Visit at VAST, ThimphuYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, ThimphuSignature Moment: Mindfulness City Discussion, Thimphu. Arrival transfer. Orientation walk to Centenary Farmers Market. Visit Buddha Statue.Hike & visit the Wangditse Monastery. Visit to Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Center. Discussion on Geluphu Mindfulness City (GMC). Visit to Dochula Pass. Chimi Lhakhang hike & visit the temple. Wander around Punakha town & local market. Punakha Dzong visit. Farm lunch with local family. Visit Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery. Gangtey Valley Excursion. Taphu Monastery visit. Jangsa Electrical Museum visit. Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery. Departure transfer. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles.
Highlights
Gain rare insight into Bhutan's future during a private discussion on the visionary Gelephu Mindfulness City with the project's coordinator, Engage with contemporary Bhutanese culture at VAST, joining artists for a roundtable on how modern creativity blends with traditional symbolism., Cross the country's longest suspension bridge before sharing a home-hosted lunch with a local family in the Punakha Valley, Receive a private longevity blessing from monks at Taphu Monastery in the tranquil Phobjikha Valley, Hike to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery, followed by a farewell dinner and traditional masked dance performance in Paro.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (7 nights)
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
What is the group leader like?
All National Geographic Signature group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leaders throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private Vehicle, Walking
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
When packing be aware that dress standards are conservative throughout Asia. To respect this and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. This means covering shoulders and no very short shorts. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly hot Asian climate. Shorts should be knee-length.
Checklist
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Service Level
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.