Embark on an unforgettable Bhutan Luxury Tour, where every moment is crafted for the discerning traveler. Over the course of 6 nights, experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious accommodations that only a few can truly enjoy. With the Bhutanese philosophy of Gross National Happiness guiding your path, this tour offers an exclusive and immersive experience in the “Happiest Place on Earth.”
This journey will see you stay at three of Bhutan’s most unique lodges, nestled in the heart of the Thimphu, Paro, and Punakha valleys. Each lodge represents a distinct character, offering you an intimate connection to the natural beauty, spirituality, and culture of Bhutan. Whether you choose to follow this itinerary to the letter or tailor it to your preferences, the Bhutan Luxury Tour is designed to offer a bespoke experience.
Day 1: Six Senses Thimphu – “The Skyward Retreat”
Your luxury journey begins with a flight into Paro Valley, situated 2,200 meters above sea level. From the airport, take a scenic drive through rich forests and valleys dotted with monasteries, temples, and pristine nature on your way to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. Along the way, stop for a stroll to the Tachog Lhakhang monastery, a medieval gem across the Paro River.
Your accommodation for the night is at Six Senses Thimphu, a lodge perched high above the valley with captivating views of apple orchards, pine forests, and the towering Buddha Dordenma, the world’s tallest seated Buddha statue. The lodge offers an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, yet is just a short distance away from all the attractions.
In the afternoon, take a slow-paced walk through the lively streets of Thimphu, visiting places like Zorig Chusum, the National Institute of 13 Arts and Crafts, and the Folk Heritage Museum, which showcases Bhutanese daily life from the past. Don’t miss the National Post Office, where you can design your own stamps, and Thimphu Tashichoedzong, the majestic fortress and government center. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Namkha, the signature restaurant at the lodge, with beautiful views over the valley below.
Overnight: Six Senses Thimphu
Day 2: Explore Thimphu Valley
Start your second day with a peaceful breakfast followed by an invigorating one-hour hike to Talakha Monastery, offering panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. Meet the local monks and enjoy a conversation over a warm cup of tea. Afterward, return to the lodge for a hearty lunch before heading out to explore more of Thimphu.
This afternoon, visit the iconic Buddha Dordenma statue, a stunning 170-foot-tall figure that stands above the valley. Then, head to Pangri Zampa Lhakhang, a 16th-century monastic school of astrology, where you can have your own astrological chart read. For a unique shopping experience, stroll through the ABC Bazaar (Authentic Bhutanese Crafts) to pick up souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a quiet dinner back at the lodge.
Overnight: Six Senses Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha – “A Serene Farmhouse Above Verdant Rice Terraces”
After an early breakfast and an optional yoga session, begin your journey towards Punakha, traveling over the scenic Dochula Pass. This iconic pass offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks on a clear day, along with 108 hillside Chortens (Buddhist shrines) that dot the landscape. Stop along the way to enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature before continuing your journey downhill into the fertile Punakha Valley.
Your first stop in the valley is the Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, the legendary “Divine Madman” of Bhutan. The temple is famous for its blessing rituals, especially for couples wishing to start a family. The surrounding village is known for its striking phallus paintings, which honor the saint’s colorful life.
Upon reaching Six Senses Punakha, check-in to the “Flying Farmhouse”, a cantilevered wooden structure offering stunning views over the lodge’s heated swimming pool and terraced rice fields. After settling in, unwind with a rejuvenating 60-minute Marma Massage at the spa, which balances your energy and helps relieve any travel-related stress. If the weather permits, enjoy dinner by the poolside under the stars.
Overnight: Six Senses Punakha
Day 4: Explore Punakha Valley
Begin your day with a moderate 2.5-hour hike through terraced rice fields towards the Chorten Ningpo Monastery, a 17th-century Buddhist site that offers stunning valley views. On the way, visit Kabasa village, a traditional Bhutanese settlement with farmhouses and a monastery. Along the way, you might witness a traditional blessing ritual by monks, accompanied by the sounds of chanting and the rhythmic beats of drums.
For lunch, enjoy a Bhutanese Thali served at the lodge’s outdoor patio. Try the famous ema datshi, Bhutan’s national dish made with chilies and cheese. In the afternoon, visit the Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most impressive structures, located at the confluence of the Pho Chuu and Mo Chuu rivers. After exploring the dzong, you can choose to try some white water rafting or relax at the lodge.
In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at the lodge’s Ari restaurant or opt for a poolside barbecue.
Overnight: Six Senses Punakha
Day 5: Punakha to Paro – Six Senses Paro “Whispers of Ancient Stone Ruins”
This morning, retrace your steps to Paro, passing through the Dochula Pass and stopping at Simtokha Dzong, the first dzong built in Bhutan in 1629. The dzong houses beautifully decorated inner sanctums, making it a favorite among art lovers. Continue your journey through the scenic valley, stopping at the Chuzom Bridge, where you can view three nearby shrines representing Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Nepali architecture.
Arriving in Paro, visit Rinpung Dzong, a classic example of Bhutanese architecture. The dzong is also home to the famous Paro Tshechu festival. Continue your exploration with a visit to the 15th-century Nyamai Zampa bridge before arriving at your lodge, Six Senses Paro. Situated at an altitude of 9,500 feet, the lodge is built within the ruins of a 15th-century fortress, providing an impressive backdrop with views of the valley below.
After check-in, treat yourself to a 60-minute ‘Tension Soother Massage’ at the spa to rejuvenate before heading for a cocktail and dinner at Jangko, where you’ll enjoy farm-to-table dining with ingredients sourced from the lodge’s organic farm.
Overnight: Six Senses Paro
Day 6: Taktsang Hike – The Tiger’s Nest
Today’s adventure takes you to Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most iconic and revered monasteries. Perched on the edge of a sheer cliff face 2,950 feet above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is a must-visit for any traveler to Bhutan. The hike up to the monastery takes you through dense pine forests, offering scenic views and the opportunity to tie a prayer flag to invoke blessings. A picnic lunch can be arranged at the monastery.
After your descent, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century Buddhist temple known for its two magical orange trees that bear fruit year-round. If time allows, stop at the Samteling Monastery next to your lodge before returning for a relaxing dinner.
For your final evening, enjoy a special dinner next to the ruins of the 15th-century dzong, with live traditional Bhutanese music and dance. Dress in traditional Bhutanese attire for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Overnight: Six Senses Paro
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, say your goodbyes to your Bhutanese hosts and transfer to the airport for your departure. Your guide will assist with your departure arrangements, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your luxury journey in Bhutan.
This Bhutan Luxury Tour is a seamless blend of cultural immersion, relaxation, and adventure, offering the perfect balance for those seeking an exclusive and unforgettable experience.