Young monks visiting an elder in Thimphu

Thanks to its moderate elevations and salubrious latitude, Bhutan is a spectacular destination year-round. This Private Journey opens a window into the kingdom’s beauty and the spiritual generosity of its people from the comfort of Bhutan’s most luxurious hotels (which, if you haven’t been to Bhutan, or haven’t been in a while, may surprise you with their frank, but thankfully not overdone luxuriousness).

As we venture across Bhutan’s western valleys, we gain an appreciation for the country’s stunning topography, its unique culture, and its inhabitants’ fervent desire to preserve both. We explore villages, visit with local farmers and artisans, and ponder majestic hillside dzongs. And, weather permitting (winter views tend to be clearest), we lift our gaze to grand views of the Himalaya, rising like permanent white clouds floating above densely forested foothills.

Our lodgings include the brilliantly conceived Amankora, the Uma Paro, and the Taj Tashi. After a long day of exploring, we’ll relish their rarely paralleled comfort, flawless service, and scrumptious meals. And of course we include the usual GeoEx touches: school visits, prayer-flag ceremonies, cooking classes, traditional tea ceremonies, meetings with Bhutanese dignitaries, and more.

Day 1: arrive in Paro • Day 2: drive to Punakha • Day 3: explore Punakha • Day 4: drive to the Phobjikha Valley • Day 5: explore Phobjikha • Day 6: drive to Thimphu • Day 7: morning in Thimphu, return to Paro • Day 8: explore Paro, hike to Taktsang • Day 9: depart Paro.

Angkor Extension is available for this trip

Laos Extension is available for this trip