Bhutan Tours & Holidays

Nestled amongst the breathtaking Eastern Himalayas, the Kingdom of Bhutan boasts a treasure chest of Buddhist wonders and lesser-known highlights that make it one of Asia’s most rewarding countries to explore. Having been shaped across the centuries by Indian, Chinese and Tibetan influences, the cities that dot these alpine landscapes embody the rich blend of traditions and customs that underpin Bhutanese culture. With tourism carefully controlled and the surrounding countryside largely undisturbed by modern developments, a tour of this remarkable nation feels like a step back in time.  

The national capital, Thimphu, is home to some of Bhutan’s most significant religious sites. Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues, is a must-see, and its 125,000 smaller statuettes promise hours of fascinating exploration. Other highlights include the Memorial Chorten, built in remembrance of the country’s third king, and the Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutanese government, with its magnificent gold-leaf roofs. Here, visitors can watch the daily flag-lowering ceremony, performed by the building’s royal guards and resident monks.  

Outside the capital, and only accessible by road through the spectacular Dochula Pass, Punakha is a key stop on any Bhutanese itinerary and is surrounded by some of the country’s most picturesque valleys. Numbering amongst the city’s most unique highlights is the Chimi Lhakhang, Bhutan’s most revered fertility temple and a site that showcases Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage in a truly fascinating way. The Punakha Dzong, the second-largest building of its kind in Bhutan, is equally impressive, with 17th-century wall paintings and courtyards that offer a memorable snapshot of Bhutan through the years. 

One of the undeniable highlights of any trip to Bhutan will be the majestic Taktsang Monastery, perhaps better known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’, which clings to a cliff face 2,950 feet above the Paro Valley. Far below this mountainside wonder, visitors can discover Paro’s politcal and religious epicentre, Rinpung Dzong, and the nearby Ta Dzong, which houses more than 3,000 works of art. Paro’s highlights don’t end there, and its culinary offerings are an essential part of every Bhutanese itinerary. Namgay Artisanal Brewery is a worthwhile stop, and tastings of its unusual, locally produced beer varieties are also available.