The Mystical Wonders of Bhutan

March 19-25, 2025

7 Days / 6 Nights

from $7,899 per person

Embark on a mystical odyssey through the isolated Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. With its breathtaking scenery, magnificent dzongs, and ancient Buddhist traditions, it’s become a favorite destination for travelers looking for a deeper experience. This private, luxury Source Journey for LGBTQ+ travelers has been curated to be not only a passage through Bhutan’s sacred landscapes but also to delve into the heart of this isolated Kingdom. This country only opened to tourism in 1973, and it is where Gross National Happiness is valued more than material wealth. On this journey, you’ll be introduced to a unique way of life that has been protected from the influences of the 21st century. Age-old fortresses guard mountain passes, and colorful prayer flags flutter over Buddhist shrines and monasteries.

Your journey begins in Thimphu, a city where modernity and history dance in harmony. Here, the majestic Tashicho Dzong Fortress, the serene Memorial Chorten, and the vibrant National Folk Heritage Museum.

Venturing through Dochula Pass reveals Bhutan’s untouched beauty, unfolding into the serene valleys of Punakha. Here, you’ll enjoy serene walks along the Mo Chhu River and explore the architectural marvel of Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Discover the temple of the Divine Madman, one of Bhutan’s favorite Tibetan monks who was known for his unique, humorous, and outrageous approach to spirituality. In Paro, you’ll go on a once-in-a-lifetime trek to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, where you’ll enjoy stunning views and visit Bhutan’s most storied monastery.

In Bhutan, you’ll experience an adventure that blends the allure of ancient mysteries with the luxury of Bhutan’s finest retreats. Step into a world woven with dreams, answering Bhutan’s call on a mystical journey that is sure to be a life-changing experience.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS:

 

 

  • Tour of Thimphu’s arts and cultural sites
  • Tour of Paro City’s handicraft markets
  • Hike the Taktsang Walk and Kyichu Lhakhang
  • 5-Star Pemako and Como Hotels Accommodations
  • Hike up to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery
  • Admire soaring Himalayan peaks and the natural beauty of Paro
  • Learn about the Kingdom’s rich history and culture
  • Relax with fantastic spa treatments at Como Hotels

Itinerary

MAR 19

Thimphu

Upon your arrival in Thimphu, you will be transferred to the Pemako Thimphu Hotel.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. However, you can choose to visit with one of our guides the awe-inspiring 15th-century Tango Gompa or the majestic Tashicho Dzong Fortress, which dates back 350 years and currently functions as the administrative heart of the country and houses the king’s office. Additionally, guests can visit the gold-spired Memorial Chorten, a highly revered Buddhist monument; admire the elaborate frescoes and slate carvings at Simtokha Dzong; and immerse themselves in the Bhutanese way of life with exhibits and folk dances at the National Folk Heritage Museum, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Arrival airport Paro (PBH)

Overnight: Pemako Thimphu Hotel

MAR 20

Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, is celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, making it the largest city in the nation. The city beautifully melds historical architecture and ancient traditions with modern developments. Our exploration of Thimphu begins with visits to several key cultural sites: the National Memorial Chorten, Bhutan’s National Library, The Institute of Arts and Crafts, The Folk Heritage Museum, The Institute of Traditional Medicine Practices, The National Textile Museum, and the Handicrafts Emporium.

After enjoying lunch at the hotel, we’ll proceed to Tashichhodzong and explore the Thimphu Markets. Positioned along the Wang Chu riverbanks, Tashichhodzong serves as the seat of the National Assembly and the summer haven for the capital’s esteemed monastic body, embodying the harmonious blend of Bhutan’s spiritual and administrative heritage.

Overnight: Pemako Thimphu Hotel

MAR 21

Punakha

This morning, we’ll drive to Punakha, taking the magnificent Dochula Pass, which offers some of the most breathtaking views in Bhutan. Upon arrival, we will check into the COMO Uma Punakha Hotel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic walk along the river, crossing a suspension bridge and meandering through verdant farmlands and traditional homesteads to reach Bale Lhakhang. This small temple offers expansive views of the valley and Uma Punakha below. Following the path up alongside the Mo Chhu River, you will encounter the significant Botakha Palace. Constructed in the 1950s by the late Third King, the palace stood vacant after the capital was relocated to Thimphu. The palace’s gardens, brimming with mature fruit trees, continue to be a site where local farmers honor a legendary serpent, offering rice from each harvest as a token of reverence.

Overnight: Uma by COMO Punakha

MAR 22

Punakha

Guests are invited to take advantage of the hotel’s amenities or explore the nearby hills with a hike. Those opting for the hike will follow a trail along the Mo Chhu River, meandering through terraced rice fields, chilies, and cabbage, leading to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. This three-story monument, constructed by the Queen of Bhutan, is home to intricate and exquisite paintings, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Overnight: Uma by COMO Punakha

MAR 23

Paro

Travel by road to Paro, a journey that takes around 4 hours. Upon arrival, proceed with check-in at the COMO Uma Paro Hotel.

Once you’ve settled into your room, set out for a sightseeing excursion around Paro city. Our tour will include visits to Zurig Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, and the Paro Market. Our walk will take us through pine forests to the stunning grounds of the fortress-like Zuri Dzong.

Together, we’ll discover Ta Dzong and delve into the history at Bhutan’s National Museum. Then, let’s enjoy breathtaking views of Paro and descend to Rinpung Dzong – known as the ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels.’ Our path will continue over the Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam), passing the main archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace, and leading us into the heart of Paro town.

This journey is not just about the places we’ll see but the shared experiences and memories we’ll create. As we explore these historic sites, we’ll immerse ourselves in Paro’s rich culture and stunning landscapes, making our adventure unforgettable.

Overnight: COMO Uma Paro

MAR 24

Paro

Today, we will experience the truly epic. It begins with an early morning hike that ranges from moderate to challenging, leading us to Taktsang Goemba, an extraordinary and significant architectural marvel in Bhutan. But the highlight will be our arrival at the Tiger’s Nest, one of the most secluded and mystical Buddhist Monasteries in the world. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) arrived here on a flying tigress, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. After taking in Tiger’s Nest’s views, we will descend steeply before ascending towards the monastery, navigating past a waterfall. We’ll retrace our path and proceed to explore several secluded temples and monasteries. Later, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, known for its miraculous orange tree that fruits throughout the year.

Overnight: COMO Uma Paro

MAR 25

Paro

Transfer to Paro International Airport

*For our intrepid travelers, we are offering an additional night in Paro and are happy to make all of the arrangements individually.

Extension

Pre-Trip: Splendors of India and Holi Festival, March 8-19, 2025

Continue the adventure and join the Source Journey’s team to experience India and the Colors of the Holi Festival. India’s vibrancy will astound you, as will the warmth of its people. Begin in Delhi, the bustling capital of India. After touring the colorful bazaars and ancient UNESCO sights of Old Delhi, continue to Agra for a sunrise visit of the timeless Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument to love. Rajasthan unfolds like a beautiful tapestry. From the pink sandstone City of Jaipur to the picturesque and romantic City of Udaipur, there are hill forts, palaces, gardens & temples. This trip of a lifetime will showcase the best of India without sacrificing luxurious accommodations. 

Accommodations

 

Pemako Thimphu 

Pemako Thimphu is ideally situated in the vibrant heart of Bhutan’s Thimphu Valley, surrounded by a convenient array of restaurants, shops, and attractions, all within a short stroll from the hotel. The accommodation offers a range of guest rooms and suites that are both spacious and elegantly furnished, ensuring a comfortable stay. Each room has modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, television, tea/coffee-making facilities, a generously stocked minibar, and a luxurious marble-finished private bathroom.

Guests are invited to savor various culinary delights at the hotel’s onsite restaurants, which offer an exquisite selection of Indian, European, and traditional Bhutanese dishes. The cozy bar provides a relaxed setting for enjoying a traditional drink. The hotel enhances the guest experience with a plethora of additional amenities and services, such as a tea lounge for casual gatherings, a fitness center for health enthusiasts, a heated indoor swimming pool for leisure, conference and meeting facilities for business needs, a travel desk to assist with local excursions and convenient onsite parking.

Como Uma Punakha

Uma by COMO Punakha is a serene luxury lodge perched at the western extremity of the verdant Punakha Valley. With its scenic location atop a hillside by a meandering bend in the Mo Chu River, it serves as a picturesque base for those eager to delve into the secluded wonders of this Himalayan Kingdom. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, ensuring that each room offers panoramic views of the Punakha Valley and the Mo Chu River as it snakes through rice fields and orchards.

The lodge features two exclusive villas: a two-bedroom COMO villa, perfect for families, and a one-bedroom villa, ideal for couples, offering unparalleled privacy and soul-stirring vistas of the forest, mountains, and valley. Additionally, there are eight deluxe Valley View rooms, some with private terraces, all affording similar majestic views. These rooms have king-size beds or twins and feature spacious bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the lodge’s facilities, including a spa and restaurant, enhancing the tranquility and luxury of their stay.

Como Uma Paro 

COMO Uma Paro is a secluded 29-room resort situated in the breathtaking Paro Valley boasting Bhutan’s most exclusive private villas. Each villa at Uma by COMO Paro offers complete privacy, nestled within its own azalea, rhododendron, camellia, and hydrangea-filled glade, providing guests with serene views of the forest, mountains, and valley.

Crafted from handcrafted stone, wood, and tiles, these villas blend Bhutanese tradition with luxury. The furniture, elaborately painted with floral designs by local artists, Indian cotton beds covered with hand-stitched patterns reflecting Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage, and hand-knotted Nepalese rugs all contribute to the villas’ unique charm. The resort’s amenities include an indoor swimming pool, a yoga studio, separate steam rooms for men and women, a gym, an outdoor sundeck, and a restaurant, offering a holistic and luxurious experience.

Pricing

CategoryDouble OccupancySingle OccupancyAvailabilityBook Now
Deluxe Room$7,899 / person$10,798 / personAvailable BOOK NOW

Included in this Journey

  • 5-Star Deluxe Accommodations throughout
  • Daily Breakfasts
  • Welcome Dinner
  • 2 Lunches & 4 Dinners
  • Private English-speaking guide
  • Transfers and excursions by private modern vehicles
  • All entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Portages at Airport
  • Bhutan Sustainability Fee ($100 per person daily)
  • Fully escorted by Source Journeys

Not Included in this Journey

  • International Airfares
  • Domestic Airfares $789 (DEL-PBH-DEL)
  • Gratuities – $180 per person
  • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • Travel Insurance (Highly recommended)
  • Personal Expenses
  • Entry Visa Expenses
  • Airport taxes (if any)
  • Covid-19 Test (if applicable)

Passports: Your valid passport should have at least two consecutive blank pages and should be valid for at least six months after your planned departure from the country you are visiting. An entry Visa will be required. Arrival and Departure Airport (PBH). Or return to Dehli (DEL) for the flight home.