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Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayan Mountains, Bhutan is a country of unparalleled natural beauty and fascinating cultural heritage; such a small yet awe-inspiring nation has proven to be a treasure trove of incredible experiences in the face of its giant neighboring countries of China which lies to the north and northwest and India taking a share of the south, east, and west.
Regardless of its landlocked nature, Bhutan offers the perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural wonder, where one can embark on unforgettable journeys and create lasting memories in any style of travel. Whether your experience takes you to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas or the verdant valleys and Taktsang Monastery in Paro Valley, Bhutan, has it all and even more, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.
In this article, we will take you through the six best tours to easily discover the magical wonders of beautiful Bhutan. But before we get to that, let us spill some more secret sauce to satisfy your adventure needs.
Have you heard of the magnificent Tiger’s Nest Monastery? It is a unique attraction in Bhutan, one of the country’s most iconic features that attracts countless visitors annually. Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, this sacred site offers a truly jaw-dropping experience with a location that is simply stunning, revealing sweeping vistas that extend as far as the eye can see.
The dramatic terrain gently lying below is a testament to the immense natural beauty of this rugged and unapologetic wilderness, offering a genuinely breathtaking view, with the immensity of the landscape contrasting sharply with the delicate intricacies of the site that injects a feeling of both humility and exhilaration by the power of nature and the skill of human craftsmanship.
For adventure enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking and trekking trails that lead to remote villages and hidden valleys, where you can witness and have first-hand experience with the traditional way of life of the Bhutanese people.
Trekking in Bhutan will be an advantageous encounter for you, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country and discover its many hidden treasures as you trek through the dense forests and cross babbling streams, with your local guide pointing out hidden gems along the way, you will feel completely at peace.
And when the night falls as you camp under the uninterrupted starry sky of beautiful Bhutan, you will feel grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime journey taking you through one of the remote areas of the world that is unknown to many tourists traversing through the usual tourist trail.
Traveling to Bhutan can be a genuinely transformative experience; the truth is, there are many ways to experience the difference of this magical country. But the best way to discover the hidden pearls of such a friendly nation that is unbeaten and unrivaled is by getting into group tours. Group tours offer a variety of benefits, from meeting like-minded travelers to experiencing the country’s hidden gems that may be off-limits to just any solo traveler.
How about the cost of traveling alone? It almost feels like breaking the bank when you embark on taking care of every aspect of your journey alone, from searching for flights that suit your travel dates to surfing through the internet for that one perfect hotel room for your stay to going back and forth with where to visit first during your trip to heck!
A lot of decisions you can’t seem to find a conclusion to. Group tours save you time, energy and, yeah, some cash, too, so you can concentrate and prepare for your excellent adventure coming your way. Isn’t this a great offer you should definitely try out?
With that said, let’s get to the six best tours to discover Bhutan with Ease.
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Wonders of Bhutan
National Geographic Journeys
National Geographic Journeys, a travel program provided by leading names in small-group adventure travel, is offered by G Adventures in partnership with National Geographic. These excursions, or journeys, are designed to provide travelers with engaging and genuine encounters based on the local culture, history, and natural marvels.
The unwavering emphasis on responsible travel distinguishes National Geographic Journeys from other travel programs. They work with local communities to ensure that their activities help them in every way. Because their guides are in continuous contact with the indigenous people, they can create customized experiences that keep their customers revisiting for more.
On this tour, you will embark on a daring expedition through the remote Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, where happiness is the ultimate measure of progress. Your journey will take you to the ancient mountain villages of this unusual country, passing through magnificent fortresses and adorned shrines as you explore this haven of Buddhist culture and encounter local people from diverse backgrounds to uncover the secrets of Bhutan’s happy nature and well-being.
At dawn, you will meet a wise Buddhist monk and scholar to delve deeply into Bhutanese Buddhism’s beliefs and ways of life; this is an excellent opportunity to learn about what makes Bhutan such a spiritual and happy country that inspires tourists all the time.
After a genuine encounter, prepare for an exhilarating drive to scenic Punakha as you cross the lofty DochuLa pass, taking in magnificent Himalayan vistas and enjoying the fluttering prayer flags, stopping at your opulent hotel before venturing to Lobesa after a sumptuous lunch.
From there, you will hike up to a 15th-century monastery called Chimi Lhakhang, devoted to Drukpa Kunley, famously known as the “Divine Madman.” He was a legendary Buddhist saint and you can learn about his flamboyant and unconventional life while witnessing women devotees flocking to the monastery to seek fertility blessings.
The next day, explore the enchanting Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital, where you can marvel at the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong, a formidable fortress with stunning architecture and intricate artwork perched majestically at the confluence of two crucial rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, which translate into the male and female rivers, respectively.
This tour takes a group of 15 individuals aged 12 to 99 years old and costs $5299 per person for ten days of lodging, meals, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.
Bhutan Adventure
G Adventures
G Adventures is the world’s top-rated small-group travel company, providing experiences through the eyes of locals and allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultures that make your travels unique and thrilling. G Adventures has earned its reputation as the ultimate itinerary planner with over 30 years of expertise, giving you the confidence to book and travel easily.
They genuinely live up to their name and are ‘G for Good.’ This incredible travel business prioritizes its destinations, giving back as much as it can to the communities that welcome its guests with open arms and genuine smiles. Your journey will take you to places few tourists see while also providing important experiences that benefit local economies and cultural preservation.
With G Adventures, you can explore the world with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your adventure is both thrilling and socially responsible. Join the ranks of adventurous travelers who have trusted G Adventures for over three decades, and experience the world in a way that will leave you forever changed.
As soon as you set foot in Bhutan, you will be taken to a world where happiness is valued above all else, and you will feel welcomed in the unexplored mountain kingdom of Bhutan, where beauty and wisdom are embedded in every aspect of life. Every moment in this country is an experience of purity, kindness, and culture, from the towering dzongs to the smiling monks.
Begin your journey at the National Memorial Chorten, where you can soak in the peaceful energy of this spiritual monument before proceeding to the Buddha Point, where the largest statue of Buddha stands tall, offering panoramic views of Thimphu’s lively town. Explore Tashi Chhoedzong, the Fortress of Glorious Religion, a grand monument constructed in 1702 that now houses the central monk body, the secretariat building, and the king’s office, encapsulating the heart of Bhutanese tradition.
As you drive through the countryside, take in the panoramic views of the Himalayas that encircle you and be awed by the magnitude of these natural landmarks. Imagine sipping a cup of natural green tea while admiring the majesty of the mountains, with gentle breezes blowing in your face.
You will spend the night at the farmhouse of a Bhutanese family, where you will be able to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people. Get enough rest to prepare for your journey to the Black-Necked Crane Centre the next day, where you will learn about these magnificent birds and their environment.
This trip takes a group of 20 people ranging in age from 12 to 90 years old and costs $3994 per person for ten days of lodging, meals, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.
Bhutan’s Druk Path – (PRIVATE TRIP)
One Seed Expeditions
OneSeed Expeditions was established on a passion for exploration and a commitment to empowering people to find the best in travel and finding inspiring places. Today, it is a well-known trailblazer in ethical travel, providing unparalleled expeditions and multisport experiences worldwide.
OneSeed, as an adventurous travel agency, proudly employs skilled guides from neighboring communities, thereby supporting the development of local businesses and economies. One Seed invests 10% of its total revenue in small-scale industries, bolstering the local economy, and the best part is that it works with local businesses to maximize the benefits of tourism.
OneSeed Expeditions adheres to the Leave No Trace principles to protect the natural environment, encouraging eco-friendly practices among its partners and functioning as a carbon-neutral entity and advocating for respect and sensitivity in all its travels.
This tour begins in Paro, the gateway to the mystical country of Bhutan, where a OneSeed representative will greet you and welcome you to this charming land. After a tiring journey, you can either catch up on some much-needed sleep or set out on an adventure to explore the city on your terms; the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people will awe-inspire you.
The next day, after a hearty breakfast, you embark on a short drive to the trailhead leading to Taktsang monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest, whose trail takes you through a magnificent pine forest adorned with Spanish moss, fluttering prayer flags and fresh mountain air. You will stop at a cafeteria for rest and refreshments and then continue your hike towards the Taktsang monastery, built on the edge of a sheer rock cliff.
From here, you begin a more difficult route to Jimilang Tsho Lake with a steep ascent through juniper forest, leveling off for a while before continuing progressively up and down through a dwarf rhododendron woodland. After crossing Jangchu La at 13,714 feet, you begin your exciting descent toward the camp, where you will stay for the night at Jimilang Tsho Lake at 12,730 feet.
This tour requires some level of strength to overcome the challenges that come with the treks and hikes. So if you trust your fitness and sense of adventure, you will be at your best, enjoying every step of the journey.
This tour takes a group of 10 individuals aged 10 to 69 years old and costs $4290 per person for 8 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.
Bhutan Discovered
Intrepid Travel
There are numerous tourism businesses around the globe, but not many of them acknowledge the importance of travel in environmental protection. Many people are unwilling to take on the challenge of turning the discovery of new places that fuel our memories into a positive course for us as tourists and the planet as a whole. Intrepid Travel is at the heart of encouraging ethical travel, creating mind-blowing adventures, and serving the communities that offer so much to visitors like you.
Intrepid Travel combines a fun vacation with charity contributions, all while valuing your time. Even when you’re on vacation, your most precious commodity is unquestionably time. You may be anxious that if you opt for a group tour, you will spend all of your precious time with the group and have no time for yourself.
You won’t have to stress about finding time for yourself when you travel with Intrepid Tours. This is because the trip alternates between group and ‘you’ time. So don’t be anxious; Intrepid Travel is very considerate of your time.
This enchanting 7-day journey through Bhutan, a hidden gem tucked in the heart of the Himalayas, will provide you with the thrill of a lifetime. When you arrive in Thimphu, Bhutan’s bustling capital, a feeling of excitement fills the air as you are welcomed by local artisans from whom you can learn a lot about Bhutanese art.
Prepare for an exhilarating cultural adventure in Bhutan as you indulge yourself in the Bhutanese local way of life, beginning with a delicious home-cooked dinner at a traditional farmhouse in the picturesque Paro Valley.
This is an opportunity to sample the rich and diverse flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, which is renowned for its use of chilies and cheese, and is prepared using traditional cooking methods and served with warm hospitality that will make you feel right at home as you enjoy every mouthful of the delectable meal.
After you’ve satisfied your taste buds, it’s time to participate in Bhutan’s national sport, archery, where you’ll learn the traditional methods of shooting arrows at a distant target.
Feel the rush of adrenaline as you aim for the bullseye and the joy of triumph as you score points and are cheered on by your new local friends who are teaching you the sports. As the sun sets over the valley, take a walk to the fabled Tiger’s Nest monastery, which is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters and offers breathtaking views of the valley and a mystical aura.
This cultural adventure will provide insight into the customs and values of the Bhutanese people, who are known to be among the happiest on the planet. This tour takes a group of 12 individuals aged 15 to 99 years old and costs $4336 per person for 8 days of lodging, meals, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.
Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Bhutan
Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel
Bhutan Acorns is a team of local professionals dedicated to providing the best possible experience for their customers visiting Bhutan. They specialize in sustainable and responsible tours that provide authentic experiences while providing economic benefits to local communities and having a low environmental impact.
Customer satisfaction is their primary focus, evidenced by their consistently positive customer reviews, demonstrating their commitment to delivering high-quality services throughout the journey, from booking to a safe return home.
There are several reasons to choose Bhutan Acorns for your Bhutan journey, including their experienced and government-certified local guides who know the area inside and out, as well as the best price guarantee with no hidden costs.
As you stand at the edge of the world, deep in the eastern Himalayas, you realize you’ve gone on a once-in-a-lifetime journey in a small independent country that stayed isolated from the rest of the world for centuries until the 1960s. Bhutan is here!
Your journey starts in Paro, where you will walk to the 17th-century Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, which is perched on the face of a precarious 800m rock cliff and symbolizes Bhutanese culture and faith.
Subsequently, you’ll journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city, where you’ll wonder at the ancient temples and magnificent Dzongs adorned with wall paintings, exquisite architecture, and craftsmanship that are still influencing Bhutanese art and architecture today. Arts and crafts have been taught at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum and practiced since immemorial, making them an important component of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.
After Thimphu, you will embark on a three-hour round-trip walk through the pristine forests, which will include a visit to a 13th-century religious site and Tango Monastery, which was constructed in 1689 on a steep mountainside.
Hiking to the 13th-century religious site, where the ancient architecture and intricate carvings take you to another time, you are surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest and the magnificent beauty of the soaring mountains as you navigate the winding trails.
This tour involves a group of 8 people aged 5 to 75 years old and costs $2515 per person for 6 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation. It is suitable for families, extremely adventurous, and fully guided.
Peaceful Tour 6 Nights 7 Days
Adventure Himalayan Travel
Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks is one of Nepal’s top tour operators, specializing in tours, hikes, treks, and mountaineering trips throughout Nepal, Tibet, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Bhutan, and India. Since its inception in 2011, this prestigious institution has been offering high-quality and personalized services in the heart of Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu.
Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks offers personalized itineraries suited to your specific interests, talents, and time limits and is guided by a big staff of qualified travel specialists. Their knowledgeable staff is qualified to oversee every element of your trip, from airport transfers, hotels, trekking and hiking to flight tickets, leads, permits, and sightseeing – all while ensuring that they are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week to make your adventure seamless and memorable.
This tour takes you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, where you will visit The National Memorial Chorten and the 12th-century Changangkha Temple, which preserves ancient manuscripts. The 3050m Dochula Pass, with its 108 chortens, countless prayer flags, and spectacular Himalayan views, will lead you into the subtropical Punakha Valley, home to the remarkable Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang, the “Divine Madman’s” shrine.
As you travel to the valley’s northern end, you will see Trashi Chhoe Dzong, the home of Bhutan’s government and Royal offices, and Pangri Zampa, two 16th-century structures that now house a Buddhist training school for astrologers. Take a short stroll to Cheri Goemba, the monastery that housed the Kingdom’s first monastic body, to stretch your legs.
This trip takes 12 people aged 1 to 99 years old and costs $3040 per person for 7 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation. It is also family-friendly and completely guided.
Conclusion
There you have the six best tours to discover Bhutan with ease. These tours were handpicked from highly rated tour operators by travelers who have traveled the same journey you wish to travel. Any of the tours will give you the best experience in Bhutan, so feel free to choose any one of them.
If none of these tours work for you in Bhutan, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.
Take a look at all the group tours in Bhutan now, which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.
