A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Hike to Chimi Lakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman”, an eccentric Bhutanese monk from the 15th century who is said to have tamed a female demon with his "thunderbolt." It is not uncommon to see quite skillfully rendered phalluses adorning the walls of Bhutanese temples and homes, and Bhutanese pilgrims travel here specifically to pray for fertility blessings.
Have tea at Dochu La Pass, located between Punakha and Thimphu. Dochu La is marked by a large array of prayer flags and a rhododendron forest surrounding 108 chortens, or stupas. The chortens are a more recent addition to Dochu La; they were built in 2005 to commemorate the loss of lives in fighting between Bhutanese soldiers and Indian rebels.
For lunch, visit a farmhouse and join a family for a cooking demonstration and tasting. Enjoy a cup of fresh yak butter tea or home-brewed liquor – fiery arak or sweet sinchang. Help them make ema datsi (cheese chili), buckwheat noodles and pancakes with red rice, served along with hot chili curries.
The grand Punakha Dzong is held by many to be the most beautiful dzong in the country, and is often photographed in the springtime when the purple flowers of the jacaranda trees blossom against the backdrop of the dzong’s white walls. Constructed in 1637, its six-story high "utse," or central tower, is a highlight.
Watch the sunrise from the Khamsum Chorten. The Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten is a 100-foot tall stupa with three levels. Dedicated to Bhutan’s Fifth King, the Chorten was built to banish negative energy while providing peace, stability, and harmony in an ever-changing world.
Go white-water rafting in the Punakha Valley. Your journey will begin about two miles north of Punakha Dzong, continue past a winter residence of the Queen of Bhutan, and some gorgeous farmland. Rafting time varies from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your interest. (Available from September through May only).
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Take a classic tour of Bhutan’s five main cities and beautiful countryside on this 12-day journey from Paro to Bumthang. You’ll visit such time-honored spots as Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Gangtey Monastery, have scenic picnics riverside and hilltop, and explore the lush Tang Valley - all while staying in luxurious lodges dotted across the country.
Spend 22 days traveling from India to Bhutan on this luxurious adventure of a lifetime. Shop in New Delhi’s world-famous Chandni Chowk market, dine at the Calcutta Polo Club, and marvel at the ancient Tibetan Buddhist Ghoom Monastery, while staying in luxury hotels like Amankora and Oberoi.
Explore the world’s most majestic peaks on this 22-day Himalayan adventure. You’ll trek through China, Nepal, Bhutan and India, staying at luxury hotels and lodges like the Amankora or Uma by COMO. You’ll walk along the Great Wall of China, visit the ancient Potala Palace, and search for Bengal Tigers in Chitwan.
See the contrast of two cultures as they’re juxtaposed before your eyes on this 16-day luxury journey through Thailand’s Bangkok and Bhutan. You’ll compare the glimmering Grand Palace and Wat Arun to the ancient architecture of Bhutan’s monasteries, raft the Mo Chu river, and spend nights at the luxurious Amankora.
Take a ride on the open road through Bhutan’s stunning countryside, as you’re chauffeured from Paro to Thimpu in your luxury vehicle. You’ll marvel at religious sites like Rimpung Dzong and Drukgyel Dzong, interact with local families at their farms, and enjoy luxury stays at luxurious Amankora or Six Senses hotels.
Traverse the Himalayan nation of Bhutan by bike on this week-long endurance challenge, which combines immersion in Bhutan’s undulating landscapes with experiences focused on Bhutanese heritage and culture.
Take in Bhutan’s lush landscape on this 16-day luxury bicycle adventure, pedalling past ancient Buddhist temples like the Taktsang Monastery, climbing Bhutan’s highest road pass, Thrumsing La, and gaining insight into local religion at a Buddhist festival in Jakar, while staying in luxe hotels like Six Senses.
Experience the natural beauty of Bhutan on this exciting 12-day trek through some of the country’s most picturesque scenery. You’ll step into the past at the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, explore the Kuri Chhu river on foot, and make a pilgrimage to Singye Dzong, while staying at luxury hotels like the Amankora or Six Senses.
Move across mountains as you spend 19 days trekking through some of the highest peaks in Nepal and Bhutan. You’ll visit unforgettable sites like the Monkey Temple and Gangtey Monastery, ride an elephant through Chitwan National Park, see Mt Everest up-close on a helicopter tour, and stay in luxury Amankora hotels.
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
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