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Bhutan Tours and Trekking Adventures

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Experiencing a Bhutan tour is unlike anything else. Embrace the customs and natural beauty of this astonishing kingdom.

Bhutan, or the Kingdom of Bhutan to give it its full title, is located on the ancient trade route known as the Silk Road and is explored deeply on our Bhutan tours. The government of Bhutan embodies a philosophy known as 'Gross National Happiness', and we feel as though we need not say any more about what you should expect from the people of this stunning country. From the impressive vistas of the Himalayas to the sacred cliffside Tiger's Nest, you'll be amazed at the equally profound landscapes and culture of Bhutan. Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and learn a bit about yourself and the generous traditions of Buddhism along the way.

Bhutan Tours & Treks

Kathmandu Valley & Bhutan Adventure

Himalayas

Kathmandu Valley & Bhutan Adventure

4.6

  • Duration 12 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Wander the Kingdoms of Kathmandu Valley, learn about the ancient cultures of Nepal, and explore Bhutan’s numerous sacred sites, such as the Tiger's Nest Monastery. This trip combines comfort, culture, and epic scenery in an unmatched way.

Trip Start: Kathmandu Trip End: Kathmandu
Bhutan Adventure

Himalayas

Bhutan Adventure

4

  • Duration 9 days
  • Activity Level Level 2 
    • Activity Level 2

      Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.

    Read more about the Active Range

Explore Bhutan's incredible scenery and culture in comfort. Enjoy gentle hikes through the wilderness, relax in the finest accommodations along the way, and gain a profound understanding of one of the happiest countries in the world. 

Trip Start: Kathmandu Trip End: Kathmandu
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Explore Bhutan's Incredible Scenery and Culture in Comfort, on a Unique Bhutan Adventure

Starting from Kathmandu, you'll explore the most beautiful hikes in Bhutan, some well-known - think the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and some less so, like the Gangte Nature Trail in the Phobjikha Valley. You’ll be looked after by two guides, one local and one native English speaker - this is a gentle introduction to the wilderness of Bhutan, taking advantage of the finest accommodations along the way. Ready?
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When is the Best Time to Visit Bhutan?

The best time to visit Bhutan depends of what you want to do - but Spring (March to May) is an ideal season for trekking in Bhutan with stable conditions and a warmer climate. It's a beautiful time to visit Bhutan, which is why it can be popular. It’s great for rafting and kayaking and to make things even better, spring brings with it heaps of festivals - the towns are alive with vivid colors and fresh vegetation! Autumn (October to December) is also a popular season. Autumn brings clear and crisp blue skies, moderate temperatures and great photo opportunities. It is one of the busier times to visit (like Spring), but due to their philosophy of low-volume tourism, the lines are never too long. 

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Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance - you can find details here

*Terms and conditions apply - read more here

Bhutan FAQs

Is Bhutan a safe place to visit?

Yes! People in Bhutan have a strong belief guests are equal to God, so all visitors can expect the warmest of welcomes. This also means Bhutan is very safe place to travel and the crime rate is very low. The only real concern to a traveler is petty theft, so we recommend taking the same common sense precautions you would in any other city. Don't bring valuable things with you unless necessary for your trip. Keep your money and other valuables in a money belt or pouch under your clothes. Lock your bags and luggage and leave valuable items you don’t need for the day (e.g. passports and credit cards) in the hotel safe.

Can you help me find international flights to Bhutan?

You'll need to fly into Nepal for the start of our Bhutan trips.

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service you’ll want to tell your friends about!

Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes, you are required to procure a visa and pay the mandatory Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) to enter the Kingdom of Bhutan. The SDF is enforced by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and contributes to activities which promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector.  This includes offsetting the carbon footprint of tourists and upskilling workers in the sector.

You can facilitate the procurement of your visa and payment of the SDF via this website: https://immi.gov.bt/home/

For Kathmandu Valley & Bhutan Adventure - Please be sure to enter the specific dates of arrival and departure for the Bhutan portion of your trip. Your date of arrival is the 5th day of your Kathmandu Valley & Bhutan Adventure, and the date of departure is the 11th day of your trip – a total of 6 nights.

For Bhutan Adventure  - Please be sure to enter the specific dates of arrival and departure for the Bhutan portion of your trip. Your date of arrival is the 2nd day of your Bhutan Adventure, and the date of departure is the 8th day of your trip – a total of 6 nights.

You can find essential travel advice, including passport and visa information, security details and local regulations, on the government website of your home country.

Here are some helpful links:

Entry requirements can change at any time, so it’s important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Bhutan?

Bhutan does not officially require any vaccinations for entry into the country, though the further off the beaten track you go, the more necessary it is to take precautions. For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. We strongly recommend you see a doctor, preferably one with experience in travel medicine, at least 8 weeks before your trip starts to discuss appropriate vaccinations.

Is altitude a concern in Bhutan?

Our Bhutan trips will take you to high altitudes, so it’s important to be aware of the causes and risks of altitude sickness, and how we manage them. You’ll be accompanied on your trip by a very experienced guide. Altitude sickness is something that can occur above 2,400m or 8,000ft and affects everybody differently regardless of fitness (after all no-body is the same). Unless you live somewhere with high elevation, it's difficult to predict how your body will react to the higher altitudes, though there are some things you can do along the way to help you acclimatize.

One of the most important of these is to walk slowly and drink plenty of water – it’s really important your body stays well hydrated at all times and you never over-exert yourself. Also, eat light meals to make it easy for your body to digest food, avoid coffee and alcohol which dehydrate you and slow your breathing down, take plenty of rests and keep yourself warm at all times. If you are concerned or have any problems, please tell your guide straight away. If you are concerned, chat to your doctor about a prescription for Diamox which is proven to help with altitude. If you need any other information please get in touch – we know the place well and we can give you plenty more specific advice.

Learn more here about dealing with altitude

What's included on your Bhutan trips?

Accommodation

All accommodation on your trip is provided in Kathmandu and Bhutan, so you don't need to worry about a thing. You'll stay at Marriott Hotel in Kathmandu, and at a comfortable B&B’s and lodges in Bhutan, all with private, ensuite bathrooms.

Meals

All your meals are included as described in the itinerary, we find most people enjoy checking out the variety of things on offer in the bigger towns. We've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed.

Transport

You'll mostly use the trusty transport of your own two feet in Bhutan, and we'll fly you between Kathmandu and Paro. There aren't too many roads in the Himalayas! You'll be using local trade routes and come across many local people selling their wares along the way, delivering goods by foot to businesses further up the mountains and travelling to visit their families.

Guides

You will be accompanied on your trek by a local guide and assistant guide who will work closely together to ensure your trip is special, fun, hassle free, safe and successful. From organizing your lodgings each night to making sure you're well fed, this is a team you couldn't do without. They are used to working together, have a great team bond and are always looking for ways to make your trip special. They will keep you entertained, motivated and happy, even on the most challenging days.

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.

What is the currency in Bhutan?

Bhutan’s currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum - US$1 is worth about 84 Bhutanese Ngultrum (at the time of writing) - please check here for an up to date conversion.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

We recommend you bring a variety of payment options with you to Bhutan. US dollars are most easily exchanged, and a Visa Debit ATM card and a credit card should be carried in case of emergency.

Cash is the easiest option and most widely accepted form of payment in Bhutan. Visa and MasterCard are accepted in some places, with additional transactions fees. Be sure to let your credit card company know you are travelling to these countries. If bringing US dollars to Bhutan, bring brand new & good quality notes, the bigger the denomination the better.

We recommend bringing about US$300 in total for our Bhutan trips, not including tips. It should be plenty for extra food or drinks, bottled drinking water, as well as any souvenirs you would like to buy.

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots - trail shoes are not good enough. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What if I need a special diet?

We can deal with all sorts of different diets during main meals, like…

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • pescatarian (vegetarian, but eat fish) • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no pork (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

Some people prefer to stick to vegetarian fare whilst in Bhutan to avoid any stomach upsets from the handling of meat. However as these trips are more comfort focused, you’ll be dining at high quality establishments and the meat in Bhutan is delicious! Your guides will let you know if there’s anywhere in particular to avoid meat.

Also if you have a sensitivity to dairy or gluten, and you have a favorite snack or brand of snack which suits you at home, we suggest you bring some along. There are meal options for you and a plenitude of food however gluten/dairy free biscuits, chocolate and muesli bars are hard to come by.

There are a few local customs to be aware of with regard to food and meals in Bhutan:

  • Always use your right hand for eating and handling food. The left hand is considered dirty, so don’t use it to eat or pass food to other people.
  • It’s important not to touch another person’s food.

What is the food like in Bhutan?

The food in Bhutan is healthy and nutritious, with rice being the staple in the Bhutanese diet. It’s usually accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are consumed most often. Chilies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people wouldn’t enjoy a meal that’s not spicy.

Can I drink the water in Bhutan?

The water in Bhutan is not treated therefore contains different bacteria to what we’re used to at home. We highly recommend you do not drink it or use it for brushing teeth, even in main cities. Use treated water at all times. This also applies if you’re travelling through a developing country on your way to Bhutan.
Plastic bottles are causing a huge environmental impact in Bhutan, with plastic bottles littering some of the highest and most stunning places in the Himalayas. We’re sure you’ll agree with us this is heart-breaking to see, so please use treated water rather than buying plastic bottles, or reuse the same bottle. Our purification tabs work perfectly, we’ll provide these for you at your trip briefing, and treated drinking water is provided in the hotels where we stay.

What types of plugs and voltage do you use in Bhutan?

Bhutan operates on a 220 volt / 50Hz system with round two- and three-pin plugs (C, D and M).

Will I have access to Wi-fi?

Wi-fi is available at most of the accommodations you'll be staying at, log-in instructions will be provided, though the connection can sometimes be a bit sporadic. If you have data roaming switched on, you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone about 70% of the time during your trip, but beware of the fees!

Do you charge a forced single supplement if I'm a solo traveller?

We welcome many solo travelers on our trips – in fact, we get so many solo travelers and they always say it’s a great way to travel alone, but not actually by themselves. You’ll have an incredible adventure sharing your experiences with other like-minded travelers, and the best part is we don't charge extra for solo travelers, providing you don’t mind sharing a room. However, for bookings within 90 days of your chosen departure, a forced single supplement will apply if there is no other guest of the same gender already booked to share with.

If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room, if one is available.

What time zone is Bhutan in?

Bhutan Standard Time (BST) is the time zone for Bhutan. It is +6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Any good books or videos about the Himalayas?

There are so many great stories to come out of the Himalayas, probably because the landscape and the people inspire such creativity and adventure. Here is a list, gathered from across the Active Adventures family, of recommended reads:

  • Seven Years in Tibet and the sequel Return to Tibet. Two autobiographical travel books written by Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer. Seven Years in Tibet is based on Harrer's real life experiences in Tibet between 1944 and 1951 during the second world war and the time before the Chinese People's Liberation Army invaded. The book quickly became a best seller and has now sold millions of copies and been made into a movie twice - most recently in 1997, starring Brad Pitt!
  • The Snow Leopard is an account by Peter Mathiessen, of his and George Schaller's 1973 journey to Crystal Mountain, in the Dolpo region on the Tibetan Plateau. They went in search of the extremely rare Snow Leopard that exists only in the high parts of Asia. Published in 1978, The Snow Leopard is regarded as a classic of modern nature writing.
  • A more recent book, Michael Palin's Himalaya accompanies the successful 2004 BBC series. If you're looking for a great coffee table book to help get you inspired, this is it! There are some awesome images by Basil Pao interspersed regularly with Palin's fantastic sense of humour and easy-reading stories.
  • You can't go past Into Thin Air, by best selling author Jon Krakauer. This is a hair-raising tale of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster when eight climbers were killed and several others were stranded during a rogue storm. Whilst a little more 'extreme' than our Everest Base Camp trek, this book definitely portrays another element to mountaineering in the Himalayas! Since it was published it has raised many questions surrounding the morality and competitive nature of summiting Mt Everest.
  • For those interested in Tibetan Buddhism, The Path to Enlightenment by the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso is a must read. In 1959 the Communist Chinese Government forced the non-violent Tibetan Buddhist Government into exile. Having spent the majority of his life in India, the Dalai Lama, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, has spent this time advocating for Tibetan's inside and outside of Tibet. Along with defining the Lam Ram, which are the stages on the spiritual path, the Dalai Lama describes the difficulty of attaining Nirvana (full Buddhahood), but urges determination.
  • Sherpas: Reflections on Change in Himalayan Nepal by James F Fisher is a fascinating snapshot of how tourism and modernisation have affected the traditional way of life of the Sherpa people - both positively and negatively. Fisher first visited the Sherpas of Nepal when he accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary in 1964, to help build school houses. One of the by-products of this new school building was a small airstrip, which dramatically increased tourism to the area.
  • Touching My Father's Soul by Jamling Tensing Norgay offers a great insight into the Sherpa world. Jamling Norgay was a mountaineer in his own right, who was a climbing leader on the ill-fated 1996 Everest IMAX expedition. As well as a first-hand account of the 96' tragedy, this book also tells little known stories of Tenzing's historic climb.

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Meet Your Bhutan Local Guides

Bhutan Adventure Stories and Tips

Why Travel With Us

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A love of adventure, born in New Zealand

Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.

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Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places

We bring your adventure dreams to life. The best journeys don’t just take you places; they inspire you to be curious, ignite your spirit, and find a new sense of freedom – they can even change your life!

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Expert guides, deep local connections

Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.

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Adventures inspired by nature

Feel like you're in a world of your own, with unique itineraries to take you away from the usual tourist traps. Enjoy exhilarating activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and kayaking, to explore the very best of each destination.

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Flexible, personalized experiences

We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility — no matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.

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All-inclusive — with everything organized for you

Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.