Valleys, Peaks, Rivers
Western Bhutan in 7 Days
Journey into the land of the thunder dragon
Adventure and scenery in Western Bhutan
Journey with us to the famed Land of the Thunder Dragon. Exploring scenic valleys, picturesque peaks, and raging rivers. Let us make your dreams of visiting the happiest country in the world come true. Book now to make those dreams become a reality.
- Length: 7 days
- Price: $5295/person
- Additional Costs: $995 round-trip flights from Bangkok, $495 single supplement
- Lodging: Hotels
- Min. Age: 12 years
- Activity: Class II/III rafting, cultural tours, hiking
- Meeting Place: Paro, Bhutan; Via Bangkok
About this trip
Bhutan, nestled between India and China, is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, sacred monasteries, and a vibrant Buddhist culture. These unique itineraries take you off the beaten path, where you’ll raft pristine rivers, explore ancient monasteries, and connect with the peace-loving monks of this Shangri-La. The original itinerary was awarded the outside Magazine 2011 trip of the Year award.
Trip Itinerary
Dzonka-English Translations:
Chhu = river, La = pass, Dzong = monastery/fortress, Lhakhang = temple, Stupa/Chorten = shrine
Day 1 – Arrive in Bhutan: Explore Paro
Arrive in Paro, Bhutan (7,200 feet) after a scenic flight with views of the eastern Himalayas. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent fortress, followed by the ancient Kyichu Lhakhang.
Overnight in Paro (Lunch, Dinner)
Day 2 – Raft the Paro Chhu, Journey to Thimphu
Start your day rafting the Paro Chhu, a pristine Himalayan river, with a stop at a historic 14th-century iron bridge. Travel to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu (7,656 feet), and visit the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma Statue, the world’s largest seated Buddha. If time permits, explore the National Library or the Memorial Chorten.
Overnight in Thimphu (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3 – Cross Dochu La Pass, Discover the Temple of the Divine Madman
Drive through the stunning Dochu La Pass (10,300 feet), adorned with 108 chortens and prayer flags, into the Punakha Valley. Enjoy a scenic hike to the quirky Temple of the Divine Madman, known for its fertility blessings and fascinating legends.
Overnight in Punakha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4 – Raft the Pho Chhu, Visit the Iconic Punakha Dzong
Paddle the Pho Chhu River’s turquoise waters and Class II-III rapids, finishing at the confluence with the Mo Chhu beside the magnificent Punakha Dzong. Built in 1637, this fortress is a symbol of Bhutanese history and resilience.
Overnight in Punakha. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Note: This itinerary may adjust due to local festivals, water conditions, or accessibility to ensure an exceptional experience.
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- Length: 7 days
- Price: $5295/person
- Additional Costs: $995 round-trip flights from Bangkok, $495 single supplement
- Lodging: Hotels
- Min. Age: 12 years
- Activity: Class II/III rafting, cultural tours, hiking
- Meeting Place: Paro, Bhutan; Via Bangkok
Western Bhutan in 7 Days Test
This AMAZING trip, our incredible guides, the delicious meals, the awe-inspiring Middle Fork, the beautiful campsites, out of the world terrain, the rapids, the side hikes and hot springs, the friendships made all wildly exceeded my exceptions.