Bhutan | Journey to the Last Shangri-La
Step into the mystical kingdom of Bhutan—known as the “Last Shangri-La”—where ancient monasteries cling to cliffsides, emerald valleys unfold beneath prayer-flagged ridges, and a deep sense of spirituality infuses everyday life. This 9-day cultural journey offers an intimate look at Bhutan’s traditions, landscapes, and warm-hearted people, blending scenic drives, guided exploration, and unforgettable hikes like the ascent to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Trek Summary
THE WWTREK ASSURANCE | SUPPORTING YOU THROUGH THE CHALLENGE
Everest Base Camp Activity Rating: MODERATE
The Challenge:
Bhutan is a land of winding mountain roads, high passes, and steep trails. The hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery is rewarding yet demanding, requiring steady footing and stamina at altitude.
The Reassurance:
Our carefully designed itinerary balances cultural immersion with comfortable pacing, ensuring you have time to acclimate, explore, and rejuvenate. With boutique accommodations, knowledgeable local guides, and seamless logistics, you’ll experience Bhutan at its very best—without the stress of managing the details
The World Wide Trekking Difference
World Wide Trekking curates journeys that go beyond sightseeing. In Bhutan, we connect you with the country’s vibrant spirit through visits to monasteries, dzongs, villages, and markets—guided by experts who bring Bhutan’s traditions and stories to life. Our commitment to comfort, safety, and cultural authenticity allows you to experience the Land of the Thunder Dragon in an intimate and meaningful way.
Luxury Lodges in the Himalayas
Stay at high-end mountainside accommodations along the trail. With access to concierge services and spacious comforts, these lodges add a touch of luxury to your Himalayan adventure. From the moment you arrive until the journey’s end, you’ll experience world-class hospitality in stunning mountain settings.
WWTrek Meals
Dine at your mountainside lodge, or along the trail with meals prepared by your Guide. The food will be nutritious and plentiful while offering a taste of the local culture.
WWTrek Team
Our team of highly trained professional Guides is here to help you every step of the way. From the first point of contact with the office through the end of your trekking experience with us, World Wide Trekking will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and prepared to embark on your journey.
WWTrek Experience
We think it’s imperative to offer our guests the ability to hear from one another. This way, guests can get the nitty-gritty details about the trek… like finding out just how challenging that hike is!
“There may be a lot of competition to take you to Base Camp Everest, and you may be tempted to look at other trekking companies, but trust me, World Wide Trekking, under the leadership of Dean Cardinale is the bespoke trekking tour. From the moment you contact them in the US to the day you meet all your team members in Nepal, and for the remainder of your tour, WWTrekk will be with you all the way.
—
I waited 54 years to climb to Base Camp. This was a journey I had wanted to do for so long and it could not have been more enjoyable, nor a greater experience than it was thanks to Dean and his team and his staff. The greatest experience of my life to date.” – Cai
WWTrek Guest Services
Once you sign on with WWTrekking, we are here for you every step of the way! You will be assigned an adventure specialist who will help you prepare for your trip. Whether your questions or needs are regarding flights, packing, early arrivals, departures, accommodations, or anything else, your adventure specialist is only a phone call away!
Once your trip begins, World Wide Trekking boasts an extensive support crew. We provide medically certified, professionally trained guide(s) for all adventures of 10+ passengers as well as a plethora of local professionals to aid the group along the trek including porters, a yak team, chefs, servers, dishwashers, and more. Additionally, you have access to a Local Operations Manager throughout your adventure.
Trek Itinerary
ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU TRANSFER TO HOTEL YAK AND YETI.
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, greeted by WWT representative
Transfer to the historic Yak & Yeti Hotel
Evening welcome dinner & trip overview
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel
FLY KATHMANDU TO PARO & TRANSFER TO THIMPU (2300m Alt.) / 2 HRS
Scenic Druk Air mountain flight into Bhutan
Visit Tachog Lhakhang (iron-chain bridge temple) & Chuzom confluence
Explore Thimphu highlights:
Buddha Park (Buddha Point) & Tashichho Dzong fortress-monastery
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Terma Linca Resort, Thimphu
GUIDED TOUR IN THIMPU
Explore Bhutan’s charming capital:
- King’s Memorial Chorten
- National Library & Folk Heritage Museum
- Drubthob Nunnery & Handmade Paper Factory
- School of Arts & Crafts (Zorig Chusum)
- Gold & Silver Smiths Workshop
- Zangtopelri Lhakhang temple
- Handicraft Emporium & local markets
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight: Terma Linca Resort, Thimphu
THIMPU / PUNAKHA (1300m Alt.) 75 KM / 3 HRS
Scenic drive via Dochula Pass (3,080m), views of Himalayan peaks
Stop at Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple
Visit Punakha Dzong at the river confluence
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Dhensa Boutique Resort, Punakha
PUNAKHA / GANGTEY / PUNAKHA (1300m Alt.) 146 KM / 4 HRS
After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to the enchanting Gangtey Valley (also known as Phobjikha), one of Bhutan’s most beautiful landscapes.
This broad, glacial valley is the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes, which arrive each year from the Tibetan Plateau. Rolling hills, pine forests, and terraced fields create a serene backdrop for this peaceful valley.
Begin your exploration at Gangtey Monastery, a 17th-century fortress-like monastery perched on a small hill above the valley. Surrounded by traditional village homes and cultivated fields, the monastery offers sweeping views and insight into Bhutanese monastic life.
Next, visit the Black-Necked Crane Information Center, where exhibits explain the ecology and behavior of these rare birds. The observation room, equipped with high-powered telescopes, allows you to catch a glimpse of the cranes against the valley’s breathtaking scenery.
After your visit, enjoy the scenic drive back to Punakha, taking in the contrast of wide open valleys, forested ridges, and quaint villages that define central Bhutan’s landscapes.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Dhensa Boutique Resort | Punakha
PUNAKHA / PARO (2200m Alt.) 134 KM / 4-5HRS
After an early breakfast, visit the striking Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by the Queen Mother with a unique purpose: to ward off negative forces and spread peace and harmony throughout the region. Unlike other chortens primarily used for community worship, this monument stands as a symbol of spiritual protection and blessings.
Climbing to the chorten, you are greeted by beautifully manicured gardens, two large prayer wheels, and a small temple, with a sacred Bodhi tree adding to the tranquil atmosphere. From the top, the panoramic views of the surrounding valley and river below are breathtaking, and a profound sense of peace envelops visitors as they explore the site.
Afterward, drive toward Paro, stopping en route at Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress built in 1627. Now home to a school for religious studies, this historic dzong offers insight into Bhutan’s architectural heritage and enduring spiritual traditions.
In the afternoon, explore Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum. Housed in a former watchtower, the museum showcases an impressive collection of Bhutanese art, artifacts, thangka paintings, and the kingdom’s exquisite postage stamps. From here, walk down a hillside trail to Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong). Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this fortress-monastery remains both a spiritual center and the administrative hub of Paro district, its whitewashed walls and red roofs framed by the valley and surrounding hills.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Naksel Boutique Hotel, Paro
HIKE TO TAKSANG MONASTERY (TIGER’S NEST) & SIGHTSEEING IN PARO
5-hour round-trip hike through pine forests & prayer flags
Explore iconic cliffside monastery & Paro Valley views
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, Drukgyel Dzong ruins & local market
Traditional farmhouse visit (time permitting)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Naksel Boutique Hotel, Paro
Paro → Kathmandu Flight
Scenic morning flight out of Bhutan
Transfer to Hyatt Regency in Kathmandu for relaxation
Evening farewell dinner
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu
Departure from Kathmandu
Transfer to airport for international flight home
Carry memories of Bhutan’s landscapes, monasteries, & culture
Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
- Pre-trip planning, assistance, and customization
8 nights boutique hotel accommodations (Kathmandu, Thimphu, Punakha, Paro)
All meals as listed in the itinerary
Round-trip international Druk Air flights: Kathmandu ↔ Paro
All ground transportation in Bhutan in private vehicles
All sightseeing, entrance fees, and cultural activities per itinerary
Expert English-speaking local guides and World Wide Trekking trip leader
Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
Bottled drinking water during sightseeing and transfers
Porterage of luggage during hotel transfers
Not Included
- International airfare
- Passport and Nepal visa expenses and handling fees (cost is $50 on arrival)
- Medical expenses and immunization
- Travel and medical insurance
- Bottled beverages
- Excess baggage charges
- Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour
- Expenses incurred due to circumstances outside of World Wide Trekking’s control
- Items of a personal nature, laundry, wifi charges, incidentals, etc.
- Gratuities to local Nepal crew and WWTrek Lead Guide
- Tourism Taxes When Applicable
The World Wide Trekking Difference
Acclimatization
Although this journey does not involve extreme high-altitude trekking, Bhutan’s elevations range from 2,200m (7,200 ft) in Paro to over 3,000m (10,000 ft) at mountain passes like Dochula. Most guests adjust comfortably with minimal effects, though some may notice mild shortness of breath or fatigue in the first day or two.
Gangtey Monastery & Black-Necked Cranes
Travel to the serene Phobjikha Valley, home to the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery and the famous Black-Necked Crane Information Center. This peaceful region blends spiritual heritage with conservation, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s deep connection to nature. Depending on the season, you may even witness the elegant cranes that migrate here each winter.
Immersive Cultural Encounters
Visit markets, handicraft workshops, and rural farmhouses for an authentic look at daily Bhutanese life.
Sacred Dzongs & Temples
Explore Punakha Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and other historic sites that define Bhutan’s heritage.
Scenic Druk Air Flight
One of the world’s most breathtaking mountain flights, soaring past the Himalayas into Paro’s dramatic valley.
Travel Notes
Best Time of Year to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Fall (September – November) offer the best trekking weather in Nepal. During these seasons temperatures are moderate and skies are clear; whereas the monsoonal season (June – September) is extremely rainy and the winter is frigid.
Arrivals and Departures
This trip begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal. You will fly into and out of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM).
*Many guests prefer to leave after, the scheduled itinerary. We can help you make arrangements. Additional charges for early arrival, transportation, lodging, meals, and activities will apply.
Recommended Flights
International airfares are not included in program pricing. When booking international travel, we recommend working with an experienced travel agent. One that World Wide Trekking is proud to coordinate with is Brian Mei from Eastern Travel. You can reach Brian directly by calling 801.792.1721 or by email at brian@easterntravel.com. Additional support is always available by calling the Eastern Travel Office at 801.466.8811 or by emailing Michelle at michelle@easterntravel.com.
The benefit of using a travel agent is in the event of itinerary changes, the travel agent will find the best flight connections, and land arrangements, for you. Though third-party travel websites are convenient, we do not recommend using them, due to instability in the itineraries. We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket.
We also recommend that you protect your flight with travel insurance and a refundable ticket. Contact AIG Travel Guard to get more information.
Travel Insurance
We recommend you safeguard your trip by purchasing travel insurance. World Wide Trekking has partnered with AIG Travel Insurance as our preferred travel insurance provider. For a price quote, or to purchase travel insurance, visit
Please Note: You must purchase this plan within 14 days of your deposit payment. Please send us a copy of your plan if you choose to purchase one.
Customs, Visas, Immigration
You will need a Nepal Entry Visa. Upon clearing customs in Nepal, you will be required to purchase a 30-day entry visa. The visa costs $50, so make sure to bring cash with you. It helps to have exact change. Waiting to try and have these taken in the Kathmandu airport will not only cause you undue delays, but it also tends to be exceedingly expensive.
*Note: Please be sure to have at least six months validity on your passport. Most countries won’t allow travelers in their country unless their passport is expected to expire six months after the last day of travel. Make two copies of your passport. Leave one at home and bring the other with you to Nepal in case of an emergency. Ensure you provide a copy of your passport to WWTrek 90-days prior to your departure date.
Accommodations
Before and after your journey, stay in Bhutan’s finest lodges and resorts, chosen for comfort, style, and authentic Bhutanese charm. Each property offers modern amenities, warm hospitality, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, making your trip as relaxing as it is unforgettable.
Transportation
A World Wide Trekking representative will privately transport you from the airport to your lodge. During the trek, travel light while carrying just your daypack.
Meals
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in the success of all our adventures. Rest assured that you will be served hearty, delicious meals and that we will happily accommodate for all dietary restrictions.
We recommend bringing your own snacks.
*Please contact us if you have any special dietary needs or food restrictions. We can accommodate any special diets. We are happy to help!
Health and Safety
Our stringent commitment to safety means you have access to our medically certified guides before and throughout your trip. Our staff also carries emergency medical equipment if needed.
Gratuities
In many parts of the world, gratuities are given in appreciation for a job well done. Our guides will take care of tipping service personnel along the way so that you don’t have to think about it.
For any additional services outside of our itinerary, plan to tip 10% (transport, restaurants, baggage, lodges, etc). We will provide you with detailed tipping recommendations on your ‘Trip Detail’ site once you sign up.
At the trails end you will have the opportunity to contribute to a group tipping pool that will be presented to your WWTrekking guides and trekking staff as we say our goodbyes.
Currency Exchange
You can easily exchange money in Kathmandu after you arrive. We will allot time for guests to do so. Local currency is best on the trek. Spending varies depending on the person, but we always recommend bringing $500 cash with you on your trip for incidentals, sodas, snacks, or souvenirs.
*Credit cards are accepted at our hotels in Kathmandu for extra amenities. ATM machines are also available in Kathmandu.
Fitness and Nutrition
We provide a complimentary 6-week extensive fitness and nutrition program to help our guests prepare for their journey ahead. The program is tailored specifically for our trips and includes virtual 1 on 1 coaching sessions with our Fitness and Nutrition Specialist.
Gear List
General Information
Country
A land locked sovereign nation, Nepal encompasses an area of 56,827 square miles. The rugged, mountainous terrain plays a key role in both the preservation of the nation’s deep cultural heritage, and as well as a hinderance to its worldly development.
Population
27.8 million
Time Zone
Nepal Standard Time (NPT) is the time zone for Nepal. With a time offset from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) of +5:45, all over Nepal Standard Time is one of only three time zones with a 45-minute offset from UTC.
Capital City
Kathmandu, Nepal
People
Sherpas: The people of the Khumbu
The Sherpas are an eastern, indigenous people living in the eastern regions of Nepal. The word Sherpa is a combination of two Tibetan words, “Shyar,” meaning east, and “Pa,” or people. They are indeed easterners both in origin and present location of settlement, as they migrated from Eastern Tibet and now live in Eastern Nepal. Traditionally, Sherpas were farmers and traders. Known for their strength and relationship to the mountains, the Sherpas now primarily work in mountaineering, trekking, or portering. Therefore, the Khumbu region is well known as “Sherpa Land.”
Culture and Religion
The people of Nepal are as diverse as the land that sustains them. Inhabiting different altitudes, various ethnic, tribal, and social groups have maintained their unique heritage for centuries. Since the 1950’s, many Tibetan refugees now call Nepal home and contribute to the country’s vast array of culture.
Eighty percent of the population practices Hinduism. Hinduism is the world’s third largest religion as well as the oldest. Originating in India, Hinduism’s eclectic religious, philosophical, and cultural roots are characterized by their belief in reincarnation—one absolute being or soul reborn multiple times in various manifestations until enlightenment is achieved. Ten percent of the population practices Buddhism while the remaining 10% are either Muslim, Christian, or Kirant (an indigenous religion). Both participants of Hinduism and Buddhism share many of the temples throughout Nepal, as their beliefs are similar. Often times, religious and cultural practices are difficult to distinguish as many individuals often employ dual-faith practices.
Currency
The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee Introduced in 1932, the Rupee is abbreviated Rs. Check online for current conversion rates.
Human Outreach Project
OUR PLANET… HELPING OTHERS, CHANGING LIVES
