Some of Thimphu's evocative sights include the National Institute for the Thirteen Arts, where students learn respected, centuries-old crafts; the comprehensive, beautiful grounds of the Royal Botanical Garden; and the invigorating, alternative Institute of Traditional Medicine, dedicated to traditional remedies for modern illnesses.
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.
Have private lesson in archery, Bhutan's national sport. (Subject to availability, you can also attend an archery tournament at the local stadium.) Today, the Bhutanese use bows employing the latest technology, though historically hunting bows were crafted from bamboo and leather, and a version of this original bow still appears in local matches.
Meet with a professor of Buddhism and explore the Cheri Monastery, home to Bhutan’s first community of monks. Established in 1620, Cheri Monastery has hosted its share of distinguished guests, from visiting Tibetan lamas to the founder of the Bhutanese state. A short distance outside Thimphu, Cheri Monastery sits atop a hill, and offers striking views of the valley below.
Pending availability, have dinner with a member of Bhutan’s parliament who is also a close friend of Remote Lands. This is a great opportunity to learn firsthand about the challenges facing Bhutan as it seeks to balance modernization with tradition.
Visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, established in 1967 to preserve the healing traditions of Bhutan – which, until now, have only been transmitted orally. A unique fusion of various elements, Bhutanese medicine combines Ayurvedic philosophy from India with Tibetan influences and Chinese techniques. Go for a medical checkup at the Institute, and tour its impressive laboratory for a primer in this ancient art.
Visit the Motithang Takin Preserve. The national animal of Bhutan, the takin and is a large and somewhat clumsy animal that continues to fascinate taxonomists. Thimphu's preserve was originally a zoo, which was disbanded, but the freed takins simply wandered the streets of Thimphu, so they were returned to their present home to be cared for.
Discover the National Library and Archives of Bhutan, which houses many ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts and is a vibrant example of traditional Bhutanese architecture (built in 1967). The library’s raison d’etre is the preservation of holy Buddhist texts – it is not uncommon to see Bhutanese circumambulating the outside perimeter, due to the texts’ presence.
Visit the National Textile Museum. Still very much a living art, the weaving techniques you’ll glimpse here (there are sometimes actual weavers at their looms in addition to permanent exhibits) bear on everything from the simple gho and kira robes that are the national dress for men and women, to the giant thondroel (appliqué tapestries) that are unfurled at the holiest of the annual religious festivals.
Pay special attention to the garden’s approximately 369 species of orchid, indigenous to the various micro-climates of this tiny Himalayan country, and which bloom at various times throughout the year. Opened in 1999, the Royal Botanical Garden offers an excellent look into Bhutan's varied flora. The Garden boasts one of the largest rhododendron collections in the world, as well as beautiful assemblages of various trees, bamboo, and medicinal plants, derivatives of which are used in roofing, paints, furniture-making, dyes and incense.
Visit an orphanage or one of the programs run by the Tarayana Foundation, an organization set up by Her Majesty The Queen of Bhutan to alleviate poverty through training and education, meeting the children and the adults who care for them.
Visit the National Institute for the Thirteen Arts, or the Zorig Chusum, Bhutan’s leading institution charged with preserving and promoting traditional aesthetics, and contributing to the country’s economy through production of high quality arts and crafts. Observe students’ lessons in painting, calligraphy, embroidery, wood and slate carving, sculpture, and boot making – among others.
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.
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.
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.
Experience a whirlwind 7-day adventure through Bhutan’s rugged terrain. You’ll take in the natural beauty of Paro Valley and Simkota Lake, while you marvel at the ancient Tiger’s Nest Monastery, see the takin at an animal preserve, and when not camping, sleep at the luxe accommodations, on this incredible journey.
This 19-day itinerary promises to immerse you deep into the local culture and religious beliefs throughout the Himalayas by exploring beautiful ancient religious monuments and sacred sites of worship. Follow in the footsteps of the revered Buddha, from his birthplace, to where he was believed to have gained enlightenment, and the site of his death.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Reap the rewards of challenging yourself to this incredible 13-day trek through Bhutan’s majestic mountains. You’ll hike and camp in breathtaking spots like the base camp of Mount Chomolhari, visit historic landmarks in Paro like the Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, and stay in luxury at the Amankora or Six Senses.
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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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