Family Luxury Adventure Travel in Bhutan

Bhutan is probably the most exclusive destination in the world! The mountain kingdom, hidden from the world for so long, provides a sanctuary from regular life. Bhutan will transport you back to a world that no longer exists elsewhere – a place where time stands still or at least endeavors to do so. Its golden-roofed temples, magnificent fortress-like monasteries and timeless rural villages are as close to a Shangri-La as you can find in the modern world.

Destination Highlights

Culture

Bhutan is a cultural gem waiting to be discovered. Only opening up to foreigners a few decades ago, Bhutanese culture is pristine and maintains centuries-old traditional values. Hospitality is paramount and you’ll be welcomed with open arms everywhere! People wear traditional, colorful clothes like the gho (men) and kira (women). Bhutanese culture is vibrant and colorful, with many festivals, ceremonies, and communal activities. It’s also deeply influenced by Buddhism, with temples in every home and prayer flags and wheels everywhere.

Active Adventures

Bhutan is a dream for outdoor adventure lovers. Trek through meadows and glacial valleys in the shadows of the mighty Himalayan peaks, or test your mountain biking skills on hidden trails. Go white water rafting or kayaking and later, try soaking in a traditional hot stone bath.

Temples

Buddhism and spirituality are an integral part of Bhutan’s identity. There are dzongs (fortresses), goembas (monasteries) and lhakhangs (temples) dotted throughout the Himalayan landscape – on top of hills, in hidden valleys, and perched on cliffs – with each having its own historical significance and beauty. With more temples and monasteries than could be explored in a lifetime, it is hard to choose only a few to visit on your trip!

Highlights

  • Tiger’s Nest – the most iconic site in the country, Tiger’s Nest Monastery appears almost miraculously placed on a cliff’s edge 900 meters above Paro. The 2 hour steep hike to the top only adds more drama to the experience.
  • Explore the Haa Valley for magnificent views of Mount Jomolhari and Taktshang Goenpa.
  • Get lost (which is really impossible!) in the quaint capital city, Thimphu, one of the only capitals in the world without traffic lights!
  • Explore the Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 and dramatically situated on two river banks.
  • Try your hand at archery – the country’s national sport.
  • Experience a hot stone bath, one of the oldest Bhutanese traditions.

Bhutan Sample Itinerary

Day 1
On arrival at Paro Airport, you will be blessed by a Buddhist priest as a welcome to this enchanting country.

Experience local hospitality as you enjoy a locally cooked meal in a local home.

Day 2
Travel into the Himalayas over high mountain passes. Head to a luxury lodge, where you can learn archery, see the sacred dances performed, learn about your future through an astrology reading, and try local whiskey around the bonfire!

Bhutan Trashiyangtse, Photo by Amp Sripimanwat

Day 3
Enjoy mountain activities such as forest bathing, yoga, trout fishing, and local weaving and dyeing. You can also enjoy a hike or biking in the pristine wilderness.

Later, travel to the capital, Thimphu. This evening you can experience Buddhist chanting at a nunnery.

Bhutan Khoma by Amp Sripimanwat

Day 4
Today enjoy a hike to an isolated monastery. Meet the young monks, and perhaps even play a game of soccer with them! After a local dinner, you can join in the evening prayers if you wish. Overnight at the monastery.

Days 5
Travel to Punakha, with amazing Himalayan views along the way. Walk through paddy fields to visit a temple and have the opportunity to plant a tree. Overnight at a rural farm resort.

Day 6
Enjoy a hike or river rafting adventure this morning. Visit a local school and meet the kids! Overnight in Paro.

Day 7
Trek to the iconic Tigers Nest Monastery, the most famous in all Bhutan.

After a picnic in the mountains, return to Paro to explore the markets. Enjoy your last night in Bhutan!

Day 8
Depart Bhutan for your next destination. You can easily extend your trip in Nepal, India, Thailand or Vietnam, all wonderful Quivertree destinations!

Bhutan Trip Tips & FAQ's

What time of year is best to travel to Bhutan?

The best time to visit is either between March and May, or from September to November. The weather is usually dry and mild, and the scenery is at its most glorious.

Is Bhutan good for a family trip?

Yes! Bhutan is one of the friendliest countries in the world and families are made to feel incredibly welcome. This is the perfect destination for a grand family adventure.

What is the food like?

Bhutanese cuisine generally has a lot in common with Tibetan, Chinese, Nepalese and Indian cuisine – which is not surprising as it is surrounded by these countries! In Bhutan, pepper and rice are commonly used, as well as potatoes, because of the Indian influences.

The base of the Bhutanese cuisine is rice, specifically red rice, which is a type of very tasty brown rice, with a certain nutty flavor. They also use buckwheat and corn. In addition to these cereals, meat is part of typical Bhutanese dishes – beef, pork, lamb and especially yak, are the main ones.

To season dishes, Bhutanese use a lot of chili, as well as cheese, which are also the star ingredients of their national dish: Ema Datshi. This dish is made with green chillies with a cheese sauce, and if you like spicy food, you will immediately become a fan.

Is Bhutan expensive?

Yes. Bhutan tourism is based on “high value, low impact”. The Bhutanese want high spending visitors who will respect and appreciate their values and traditions. Costs are kept high on purpose, to help prevent over-tourism and allow the country to keep its special character.

Bhutan has excellent luxury hotels and fabulous guides, so visitors do receive excellent services for their money.