Investment
- Twinshare โ $3750 AUD
- Single Room โ $4415 AUD
- Sustainable Development Tax (SDT) - $1250 AUD Per Person
- 8 - 16 March 2026
- 8 Nights/ 9 days
- Weather 14 - 25 C
- Fitness - Med 5km per day
- Price Range - $$$
Blissful Bhutan: The Land of Happiness and Mystique
Bhutan is a land of breathtaking beauty and profound spirituality, where ancient traditions thrive alongside majestic landscapes. Known for its commitment to Gross National Happiness, Bhutan offers a journey like no other. From the striking cliffside Tigerโs Nest Monastery to the vibrant markets and centuries-old fortresses (dzongs), each corner of Bhutan is imbued with culture, peace, and a touch of mystery. Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive, serene, and authentic experience, Bhutan invites you to explore its pristine nature, meet its warm-hearted people, and feel the deep sense of harmony that permeates daily life.
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Trip Highlights
- Thimpu Orientation Walk
- Stop off at Buddha Point
- Visit the National Textile Museum
- Visit Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum
- Visit the Desho Paper Factory in Punakha
- Visit the Voluntary Artists School in Thimphu
- Journey to Simtokha Dzong, a castle-monastery
- Admire the breathtaking view at Dohula Pass
- Stop at Sopsokha Village walk with Chimi Lhakhang Temple visit
- Embark on a 1โhour hike to the ornate Khamsum Yulley Monastery
- Visit the serene Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, perched on a mountaintop
- Explore the town of Phobjikha
Book your Blissful Bhutan Tour
*The Bhutanese Goverment has a Sustainable Development Tax it is USD $100 ($160 AUD) per person per night. You can read more about it on our Blog HERE
**FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour requires a $500 deposit, followed by two installment payments.
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
Combine the Nepal Tour with our Bhutan Tour
If you are adding the Nepal tour to the Bhutan Tour BOOK BELOW
*Receive $100 discount for combining two trips, which has already been applied to the final pricing.
Enjoy guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
For groups of eight or more, a Vibrant Women Travel Host will join the tour to provide additional support and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Inclusions
- 8 nights Accommodation
- Meals as stated on itinerary
- Daily Government Royalties and Taxes in Bhutan (US$ 100 per person per night)
- One-time Bhutan Visa Fee (US$ 40 per person)
- Airport transfer to and from the hotel
- Private vehicle transport all throughout activities
- Professional Guide as provided throughout itinerary
- Entrance Fees as per itinerary
- Local temple tours
Exclusions
- International airfares to and from Bhutan
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
- Some Lunches and Dinners (prices for these can vary from very cheap to western prices depending on where you are eating)
- Personal purchases
- Tipping is for tour guides, drivers and hotel staff - $25AUD per day. To be collected on arrival or beforehand added to your invoice.
Itinerary
8 March 2026 | Day 1
9 March 2026 | Day 2
10 March 2026 | Day 3
11 March 2026 | Day 4
12 March 2026 | Day 5
13 March 2026 | Day 6
14 March 2026 | Day 7
15 March 2026 | Day 8
16 March 2026 | Day 9
8 March 2026 | Day 1
Arrive to Bhutan
Destination : Paro โ Thimphu
After arriving at Paro Airport and making your way through immigration and customs formalities, you will be greeted by your guide and driver and warmly welcomed to the enchanting Land of the Thunder Dragon. Drive alongside mountains, rivers, and fields to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. Towards late afternoon, wander through the fascinating streets of Thimphu, the worldโs only capital city without a traffic light!
Included Activities
โข Paro โ Thimphu drive (approximately 1.5 hours)
โข Orientation walk in Thimphu
Accommodation: Hotel Thimphu Central or similarย
Meals: None
9 March 2026 | Day 2
Exploring Thimpu, Bhutan
After breakfast you will venture out to explore Thimphu. Stop off at Buddha point, named after its giant gilded Buddha statue, and take in panoramic views of the city. Take a short hike through pine trees where your leader will help you spot takin, the national animal of Bhutan, a unique goat-antelope creature. Carry on to the Zilukha Nunnery.
After lunch, your leader will weave together the fascinating cultural heritage of Bhutan during visits to the National Textile Museum, Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum (where you can try your hand at Bhutanโs national sport: archery), and the Voluntary Artists School in Thimphu, an institution where young people receive formal education in the art of traditional painting, sculpture, and woodcarving. Thimphu has an excellent range of handicrafts, most notably woven cloth, wooden masks, thangkas, silverware, jewellery, and bamboo crafts that come from all over Bhutan.
Included Activities
โข Buddha Dordenma
โข Simply Bhutan Museum
โข Zilukha Nunnery
โข Takin Conservation Park
โข National Library
โข National Textile Museum
โข Voluntary Artists School
โข National Memorial Chhorten
Accommodation: Hotel Thimphu Central or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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10 March 2026 | Day 3
Drive to Punakha
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for your drive to Punakha. Before hitting the national highway, visit the Desho Paper Factory, witnessing papermaking by hand. Then, journey to Simtokha Dzong, a castle-monastery guarding against mythical demons.
Then head towards, Punakha, another charming settlement in the hills of Bhutan. Take a break at Dochula Pass to admire the breathโtaking view of the eastern Himalayas (weather-permitting), including Bhutan’s highest mountain, Gangkhar Puensum. The chortens adorning the Pass honour the fallen warriors that helped build Bhutan. Before reaching Punakha, you will also stop at the Sopsokha village with its famous Chimi Lhakhang temple built by Drukpa Kuenley, the divine madman.
Arrive in Punakha for a comfortable night’s rest, anticipating the upcoming day of exploration.
Included Activities
โข Desho Paper Factory
โข Simtokha Dzong
โข Thimphu โ Punakha drive (approximately 2.5 hours) via Dochula Pass
โข Sopsokha Village walk with Chimi Lhakhang Temple visit
Accommodation: Four Boutique Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dochula Pass, Bhutan
11 March 2026 | Day 4
Exploring Punakha
After breakfast, embark on a 1โhour hike to the ornate Khamsum Yulley Monastery, renowned for its spiritual significance. The hike is a pleasant one, through countryside, vegetable fields and pine trees. Enjoy the views from topmost floor of the monastery, then hike back down to your vehicle and visit the convergence of Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers, admiring the breathโtaking Punakha Dzong and its iconic cantilever bridge. Afterwards, visit the serene Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, perched on a mountaintop, and take in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. Return to Punakha for the evening.
Included Activities
โข Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten hike
โข Punakha Dzong
โข Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Accommodation: Four Boutique Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Khamsum Yulley Monastery
12 March 2026 | Day 5
Drive to Phobjikha
Commence your drive to Phobjikha today. Pass through lush forests and verdant vegetation, and if luck is on your side, you can spot the native wildlife, ranging from langur monkeys to barking deer known as muntjacs. Cross the Lawa La pass and emerge into the stunning valley of Phobjikha with its vast wetlands and yaks and horses grazing on them.
After arriving at your lodge and checking in, go for a visit of Gangtey Goemba. Gangtey Goemba, nestled in Bhutan’s Phobjikha Valley, is a revered Buddhist monastery known for its stunning hilltop location and affiliation with the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. It features ornate structures and serves as a spiritual center attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Offering serene surroundings and cultural insights, it stands as a significant destination in Bhutan’s religious and cultural landscape.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax at the hotel or take a leisurely stroll around the countryside.
Included Activities
โข Punakha โ Phobjikha drive via Lawa La Pass (approximately 3 hours)
โข Gangtey Goemba visit
Accommodation: Dewachen Resort & Spaย or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gangtey Goemba
13 March 2026 | Day 6
Exploring Phobjikha
Embark on a day of exploration starting with a visit to the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN), where you’ll learn about the black-necked cranes that fly in the winter to Phobjika Valley. The RSPN’s efforts focus on protecting these birds and other vulnerable species.
Afterward, enjoy a gentle two-hour hike around the valley with your guide, taking in scenic views of the wetland, lush forests, and local landmarks.
Included Activities
โข Black-necked crane information center visit
โข Phobjikha Valley hike
Accommodation: Dewachen Resort & Spaย or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
14 March 2026 | Day 7
Exploring Phobjikha
In the morning, return across Dochula Pass and continue the journey to Thimphu. The roads in Bhutan are narrow, making travel time longer despite short distances. Enjoy the passing scenery and relax. After lunch, proceed to Paro Valley and consider exploring the town and its local markets upon arrival. Also make your way to Ta Dzong museum for an insight into the Bhutanese history.
An exciting and active day awaits you tomorrow!
Included Activity
โข Phobjikha โ Paro drive (approximately 5 hours)
โข Ta Dzong Museum
โข Kaja Throm Market visit
Accommodation:ย Bhutan Mandala Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
15 March 2026 | Day 8
Drive back to Paro
Start your day with an early breakfast and a short drive, as you prepare for an incredible hike to the renowned Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. Perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor, this magnificent monastery offers breathโtaking views. After approximately an hour of ascending the mountainside, you’ll reach a small teahouse with a panoramic view of the temple. An additional 45โminute will take you to the famous Tigerโs Nest Monastery. Situated on a precarious cliffside, it is bound to take your breath away! Explore the monastery before returning to the teahouse for lunch.
In the evening, upon returning to Paro, indulge in Bhutanese hospitality and traditional flavors with a homeโcooked meal at a local farmhouse. Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and if you wish, treat yourself to an optional hot stone bath. This therapeutic bath, using fresh river water infused with local herbs and heated by fireโroasted river stones, is a traditional Bhutanese remedy. It offers a rejuvenating and relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.
Included Activities
โข Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery hike (3120 m)
โข Traditional Farmhouse visit for dinner
Optional Activity
โข Traditional Hot Stone Bath at the farmhouse
Accommodation: Bhutan Mandala Resort or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
16 March 2026 | Day 9
Departure Day
It is time to bid adieu to this beautiful country! Have breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Paro airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Paro
Thimpu Central Hotel
Thimphu Central Hotels location in Bhutan’s capital ensures convenience and comfort during your stay. With a stay at Thimphu Central Hotel in Thimphu, you’ll be within a 5-minute walk of Clock Tower Square and Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu.ย
Punakha
Four Boutique Hotel
It is a small, comfortable hotel, situated on the valley, Punakha with the excellent view Point of Phunatshang River, in line with scenic view of small Khuruthang town. The Four Boutique Hotel promises you a comfortable base from which to explore the regionโs mountains and monasteries.
Phobjikha
Hotel Phobjikha
Nestled in the pristine Gangtey Valley of Bhutan, Hotel Phobjikha is a luxury retreat that offers an immersive experience amidst the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas. Surrounded by the majestic Gangtey Monastery and lush greenery, the lodge provides a harmonious blend of traditional Bhutanese charm, modern comforts, and a deep connection with nature.ย
What our Guests have to say about our Tours
5/5
A must do, Nepal is an incredible country! The Himalayas were an amazing sight to see. And I would love to return , especially to Pokhara . And travelling with Vibrant Women Tour made it all very safe and enjoyable.
Highly recommend!
AnnQ.
Heavenly Nepal Tour 2023
5/5
This was a fantastic trip with a great mix of culture, adventure, food and pampering. Vibrant women and their tour support do a great job in communication and planning. I love that the tour is adapted and matches the needs of the group. Iโm really looking forward to travelling back to Sri Lanka with confidence now.
Kylie B.
The Essence of Sri Lanka 2024
Add our Nepal Tour to Your Bhutan Tour
This is not a hiking tour but a nature and cultural tour that immerses you in cities and surrounding landscapes. Youโll experience the vibrant celebration of Holi, the festival of colours, which adds a unique and joyous element to your adventure. It includes and exploration of Kathmandu and 3 nights at a retreat centre in Namo Buddha for rest and relaxation exploring the health benefits of Ayurveda.ย
Combine the Nepal Tour with our Bhutan Tour
If you are adding the Nepal tour to the Bhutan Tour BOOK BELOW
*Receive $100 discount for combining two trips, which has already been applied to the final pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Arrival and Departure Information
Visa on Arrival
Deposit and Payment Plans
Travel Insurance
Cancellation Policy
Dietary Requirements
Fitness Requirements
Vaccination Advice for Travellers
Arrival and Departure Information
Arrival and Departure is at Paro Airport (PBH).
It’s a bit tricky getting to and from Bhutan from anywhere, which is why we added the Nepal trip beforehand. Currently you can fly Thai and Druk Airlines but there are 7 hour layovers in Bangkok, however easy to stay there though for a sleep with hotels in the airport. Or Cathay pacific with 2 stops from the USA.ย
We might suggest flying to Kathmandu with Air India (return to Australia) or Cathay Pacific (from the USA) and then booking a return flight from Kathmandu to Paro. It’s just a one-hour flight, but like everything in Bhutan, it’s quite expensive. However, it seems cheaper to do it this way at around AUD 2400 for the return trip in total.
Visa on Arrival
As part of your package we will purchase your visa forย you. You do not need to worry about this. Just upload your passport photo to your trip dashboard. You will be prompted to do his after booking.ย
Deposit and Payment Plans
This tour requires a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit. Once you have secured your booking, you will receive a welcome email with all the details for the trip.ย
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
Travel Insurance
Our rates do not include any kind of travel insurance and each guest must make sure to arrange their own necessary insurance prior arrival. We will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, all travel involves some degree of risk we strongly recommend that you take out appropriate travel insurance for your adventure.ย
Your insurance protection should include cover for cancellation, medical, in particular Coronavirus and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive please check this before travelling. Or contact our preferred Travel Insurance provider CoverMore.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policyย
Read more about our Booking Process and why we have the cancellation policy we doย HERE
- Up to 180 Days Before Tour Start: A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained.
- From 180 โ 75 Days Before Tour Start: 25% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Fromย 75 โ 45 Days Before Tour Start: 50% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Less Than 45 Days Before Tour Start or No Shows: The entire amount 100% of the tour cost will be retained, as we would have already incurred costs for accommodation, transport, flights, and activities, which cannot be refunded to us.
- After Tour Commencement: No refunds will be issued.
This is whyย travel insuranceย is compulsory. We suggest taking out travel insruance within 2 weeks of booking your tour.ย
Dietary Requirements
We’re sorry, but we’re unable to accommodate complex dietary issues on our tours. If you can manage your dietary needs independently, that’s perfectly fine. However, we cannot assume responsibility for guests’ health and wellbeing regarding food in foreign countries, as sometimes there can be misunderstandings due to language barriers. We hope you understand that our primary concern is to ensure that none of our guests become unwell while travelling with us.
Thank you for your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
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Our tours are designed to provide a rich and immersive experience, which includes walking tours on some days. Participants will encounter uneven footpaths, stairs, and other elements that require good mobility. Therefore, we recommend that women joining our tours have a medium level of fitness. You should be able to walk up to 7km a day to fully enjoy all the activities and explore the beautiful destinations with ease.
Vaccination Advice for Travellers
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To ensure a safe and healthy journey, it’s important to be up-to-date with your vaccinations. We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional or visiting a travel health clinic for personalised advice based on your travel itinerary. For comprehensive information on required and recommended vaccinations, please visit Travel Doctor. They provide expert guidance to help you stay protected while exploring the world.
