From pilgrimage sites to local communities, head into the heart of magical Bhutan during an 11-day photo expedition with National Geographic. Journey to the countries most magnificent destinations including Punakha, Paro and Thimphu where you will head out on numerous excursions to meet community leaders, discover historic landmarks and experience local traditions that are still practised today.

Trip highlights

Hike to Bhutan's most famous pilgrimage site, Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest Temple), and participate in an intimate butter lamp ceremony with the monks of Gangtey Goemba.

Get a personal perspective on contemporary Bhutan while mingling with community leaders and government dignitaries at a special banquet.

Stay at the spectacular Zhiwa Ling Hotel that exemplifies the artistry of Bhutanese architecture.

Itinerary - 11 Days Days

1-2 Bangkok, Thailand/Paro, Bhutan

Spend a night in Bangkok, then fly to Bhutan’s Paro Valley and visit Ta Dzong, a 17th-century fortress. Explore our stunning hotel before a welcome dinner.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel; Zhiwa Ling Hotel (Day 2:B/L/D)

3-4 Punakha

After a special Buddhist blessing ceremony, journey to Punakha and visit the Chimi Lhakhang temple. Hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, then explore the Punakha Dzong.
RKPO Green Resort (B/L/D)

5-6 Phobjikha

Travel to Phobjikha, one of the largest wintering sites for the endangered black-necked crane. Visit the Gangtey Goemba temple complex then set off on a half-day hike, and visit with a village family along the way.
Dewachen Lodge (B/L/D)

7-9 Thimphu/Paro

Travel to Thimphu via the scenic Dochu La pass. Get a behind-the-scenes perspective on Bhutan during a banquet with local dignitaries and professionals. Spend the next morning exploring the country’s modern side in Thimphu. Visit the National Textile Museum, then return to Paro and settle back into our hotel. The next day, hike to the most famous pilgrimage site in Bhutan: Taktsang Lhakhang, or the Tiger’s Nest Temple. Enjoy a festive farewell dinner.
Taj Tashi Hotel; Zhiwa Ling Hotel (B/L/D)

10-11 Bangkok, Thailand

Fly home via Bangkok.
Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel (Days 10-11: B)

Show More

You are leaving this Website and being directed to an External Website.

Please read the privacy policy of the External Website to understand how your personal information will be treated.

GO NOW

You are leaving this Website and being directed to an External Website.

Please read the privacy policy of the External Website to understand how your personal information will be treated.

GO NOW