Tour to Bhutan, Kingdom of Happiness, Buddhist festival Tsechu, Thimphu, Himalaya

Welcome to Bhutan, the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, as the Bhutanese call their country!

During our expedition, we will participate in the colorful Black-Necked Crane Festival in the remote Phobjikha Valley, climb to the majestic Tiger's Nest, admire the green valleys and the traditional architecture of the mountain kingdom.
We will also share a traditional meal with monks in a monastery and learn about the unique teachings of the local Divine Madman.

All this, and much more, awaits us in the Kingdom of Happiness – Bhutan!

The photo expedition is led by Alex Mzungu.

Welcome to Bhutan, the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, as the Bhutanese call their country. During our short but eventful expedition, we will be participants in a vibrant festival in Thimphu, ascend to the majestic Tiger's Nest, and admire the green valleys and traditional architecture of this mountainous kingdom. Additionally, we will share a traditional meal with monks in a monastery and learn about the unique teachings of the local Divine Madman. All of this, and much more, awaits us in the Kingdom of Happiness – Bhutan!
SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: November 9 – 16, 2026

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Number of participants: 8 – 12

Cost per person:
  • 3 190 USD subject to 12 participants,
  • 3 290 USD subject to 10 – 11 participants,
  • 3 450 USD subject to 8 – 9 participants.

Early booking discount 10% (in case of booking before May 9, 2026)

Everything is included (including Bhutanese visa and three meals a day), except for:
  • International flights to Paro and back,
  • International medical insurance,
  • Transit visa for India (Indian visa is obtained upon arrival in Delhi by applying for a pre-visa through the website, for 60 USD, conditions may change)

Estimated cost of Moscow – Paro – Moscow flight: 1400 – 1500 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).
Estimated cost of Dubai – Paro – Dubai flight: 1100 – 1200 USD (usually purchased independently, we will provide guidance).

Single supplement: 380 USD (available throughout the itinerary)


TRAVEL PROGRAM: Bhutan Tour

Day 1. November 9, 2026 (Monday). PARO – THIMPHU (50 km, 1.5 hours)

We begin our exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the National Museum in Paro, which is housed in a former watchtower situated directly above Paro Dzong.
After that, we will head to Thimphu, stopping along the way at Tachog Lhakhang to see a traditional bridge built using ancient iron chains.
After check-in at the hotel, we will visit the National Museum in Paro. The museum has recently added an excellent introductory audiovisual presentation, which has become an invaluable resource for visitors upon their arrival in the kingdom.
Next, we will visit the National Memorial Stupa. If we have time, we may also visit the historic Dechen Phodrang Monastery, which overlooks the Thimphu Valley. From there, we can see the imposing Tashicho Dzong.
Finally, we will end our tour with a visit to the Golden Buddha. This location also offers stunning views of the valley.

Meals included: Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Sandalwood or similar

Note: Only a local airline operates flights to Bhutan, making it impossible to reach Bhutan directly from major international hubs. The most convenient flights depart from Delhi, India. Flights are also available from Kathmandu (Nepal) or Kolkata (India).
IMPORTANT! A transit visa is required for India if you plan to change flights there.

*Recommended flights to Delhi (India):
• Etihad Airways flight EY 844 departure from Abu Dhabi at 09:05, arrival in Delhi on November 8 at 14:10, or
• Air Arabia flight G9 957 departure Sharjah at 13:00, arrival in Delhi on November 8 at 17:40
• any other flight from any city arriving in Delhi no later than 1:50 a.m. on November 9, 2026

*Recommended flight from Delhi (India) to Bhutan:
• Hahn Air Technologies flight KB 5446 on November 9, departure from Delhi at 04:45 arrival in Paro at 07:15

*Recommended flights to Bangkok (Thailand) :
• Air Arabia flight G9 806 departure from Sharjah at 07:45, arrival in Bangkok on November 8 at 16:45

*Recommended flight from Bangkok (Thailand) to Bhutan:
• Bhutan Airlines Flight B3 521 departure from Bangkok at 06:30 on November 9, arrival in Paro at 09:55
• Hahn Air Technologies Operates Druk Air Flight KB 5442 on November 9, departure from Bangkok at 06:00, arrival in Paro at 08:15.


Day 2. November 10, 2026 (Tuesday). THIMPHU – PHOBJIKHA VALLEY (150 km, 4 hours)

After breakfast, we will continue our journey to Punakha Valley. Along the way, we will pass through Dochula Pass and stop to visit the 108 stupas, commissioned by the former Queen in memory of those who lost their lives during the conflict in 2002 when Bhutan expelled Indian rebels from their camps in the jungle on the border with India. On a clear day, we can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Eastern Himalayas.

Continuing our descent, we will travel through a temperate forest, where rhododendrons and magnolias bloom in the spring, and a semi-tropical area with orange trees, banana plants, and cacti. We will stop for lunch along the way and then continue to Phobjikha Valley, where endangered black-necked cranes spend their winters. This valley is a unique and beautiful place that is unlike any other we have seen so far.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Phobjikha or similar


Day 3. November 11, 2026 (Wednesday). BLACK-NECKED CRANE FESTIVAL IN PHOBJIKHA VALLEY

The Phobjikha Valley is known as the winter home of black-necked cranes (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan has about six hundred of these birds, and Phobjikha is a popular place for them to migrate during winter from the Tibetan Plateau. From the beginning of November to the end of March, these graceful and shy birds can be seen.
Gangtey Gompa is an old monastery that rises above the valley. Its history dates back to the 17th century. In the morning, we will join locals for a crane festival. Then we will take a nature hike in the valley or go for a leisurely walk.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Phobjikha or similar


Day 5. November 12, 2026 (Thursday). PHOBJIKHA VALLEY – PUNAKHA

Upon arrival in Punakha, we will visit Sangchen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang, a Buddhist nunnery located in Bhutan. This two-story nunnery is also a Buddhist monastery and is situated on a site called Omolatseha. Sangchen Lhuendrup Lhakhang has become one of the most popular places to visit in the Punakha Valley due to its impressive architecture.
After that, we will head to the small village of Talo, where the four queens (all sisters) of the previous fourth king lived. There, we can take a leisurely stroll through the serene gardens surrounding the monastery.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Zhingkham Resort or similar


Day 5. November 13, 2026 (Friday). PUNAKHA

After breakfast, we will take a fascinating walk through the green fields and small villages in Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. This chorten has a special significance because it was consecrated in 1999 and dedicated to the protection of the former crown prince, the current king Jigme Khezar Namgyal Wangchuck.
Next, we will visit the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, a 160-meter long suspension bridge known as the longest in Bhutan. From here, we can enjoy spectacular views of the Punakha Dzong and Pho Chhu Valley.
We will then trek through the valley to Ninpo Chorten Monastery, where we can join young novice monks for a traditional monastic meal. Afterwards, we will spend time with the chief abbot and other monks to learn more about their lives and daily activities.
We will also visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, which formerly served as the official government residence and is still the winter home of the Dratsheng (Central Monastery). This is Bhutan's most impressive dzong, and a perfect example of how a medieval fortress and center for both monastic and administrative activities has adapted and evolved in modern times.
A short walk will then take us to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman,” who taught Buddhism through singing, drinking, and provocative behavior. The path to the temple is lined with houses adorned with phallic symbols in memory of the saint’s antics. The temple is also famous as a fertility shrine, attracting childless couples from Bhutan and beyond.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Zhingkham Resort or similar


Day 6. November 14, 2026 (Saturday). PUNAKHA – PARO (110 km, 3 hours)

After breakfast, we will leave Punakha and head to the Paro Valley.
This afternoon, we will visit Zuri Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan, dating back to the 12th century. This five-story building, surrounded by double walls and protected by a bridge, also offers excellent hiking opportunities. In addition to its historical significance, Zuri Dzong provides a breathtaking view of the Paro Valley, making it a must-visit destination.
Following this, we will embark on a guided tour of the main attractions in Paro. In Paro City, we will stroll along the main street, where you can purchase jewelry and handicrafts. We will also learn about Bhutan's national sport, archery. In the evening, we will unwind in a traditional Bhutanese setting at a village house in Paro Valley and enjoy a traditional Bhutanese meal with local families.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar


Day 7. November 15, 2026 (Sunday). HIKE TO TIGER'S NEST

After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a pilgrimage hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). This is one of the most revered monasteries in Bhutan, and all Bhutanese Buddhists aspire to make a pilgrimage to Taktsang at least once in their lives. Buddhists believe that each step taken towards the monastery earns merit for the future. The Tiger’s Nest clings spectacularly to a cliff over 1,000 meters above the valley, where Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress to subdue local demons before meditating in a cave for three months, which now forms part of the monastery.
In 1998, the monastery was severely damaged by fire but has since been meticulously restored to its original state and was reconsecrated by the Fourth King in 2005.
Taktsang Gompa (Tiger’s Nest) is the absolute highlight of our expedition! While the climb may seem challenging, it is truly rewarding. If you prefer not to hike, you can spend time in a café with stunning views of the temple.
We will also visit the National Museum in Ta Dzong, a watchtower that once protected Paro Dzong from enemies. From here, we will descend to Rinpung Dzong, the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” which houses local government offices and a monastery. Scenes from the famous film “Little Buddha” were filmed here.
We will walk down to the old traditional bridge below Paro Dzong, where we will have the chance to try on traditional Bhutanese attire and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the fortress! It’s also a great spot to watch planes land and take off. Paro’s airstrip is known as one of the most challenging international airports in the world. If time permits, we will visit Bondi Zangto Pelri Lhakhang village and its enchanting new temple with magnificent decorations.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation included: Hotel Paro Grand or similar


Day 8. November 16, 2026 (Monday). DEPARTURE FROM PARO

On our final day in Bhutan, we will transfer to the airport for departure.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: no

*Recommended flights from Bhutan:
  • Bhutan Airlines, flight B3‑700: departure from Paro at 10:35, arrival in Bangkok at 16:05,
  • Any other flight departing from Paro at any time on November 16.

*Recommended flights from Bangkok (Thailand):
  • Emirates, flight EK‑373: departure from Bangkok at 21:05, arrival in Dubai on November 17 at 06:40,
  • Qatar Airways, flight QR‑835: departure from Bangkok at 20:00, arrival in Doha on November 17 at 09:35,
  • any other flight from Bangkok to any city anytime on November 16
Cost includes:
  • Bhutan visa
  • Tourist tax of 100 USD per person per day
  • Good quality accommodation in hotels throughout the itinerary, double TWIN or DBL for couples
  • Three meals a day throughout the itinerary
  • Drinking water throughout the itinerary
  • All ground transportation as per the program: Toyota Coaster bus along the route, with working air conditioners and experienced drivers
  • All airport transfers
  • Entrance fee to festival events
  • All necessary permits and documents
  • All activities and excursions as per the program
  • Professional English-speaking guide (regional specialist) throughout the journey
  • Russian- and English-speaking team leader throughout the trip


Costs excludes (additionally paid):

  • International airfare to and from Paro
  • International medical insurance
  • India transit visa (Indian visa obtained on arrival in Delhi with pre-visa application through the website, 60 USD, conditions may change)
  • Single accommodation
  • Refreshing and alcoholic beverages, and personal expenses
  • Tips/gifts for the local population


To take with:

  • 3 sets of clothing (trousers, long-sleeved shirt, T-shirt, underwear, socks)
  • Sun hat
  • Light trekking jacket
  • Warm jacket with a windstopper for mountainous areas
  • Lightweight gloves and a light hat (it may be cool in the mountains)
  • Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight shoes (sneakers)
  • Raincoat
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and cream
  • Various repellents for skin and clothing
  • Personal first aid kit (analgesics, antiseptics, antibiotics, antivirals, multivitamins, rehydration solution, intestinal medications, medications personally required for you)
  • Personal hygiene items (including towels, wet wipes, soap)
  • Headlamp
  • Trekking poles (optional)
  • Backpack for luggage (either a duffel bag or a small suitcase)
  • Small backpack for personal items
  • Photo and video equipment
  • Additional set of batteries and a power bank for photo and video equipment
  • Waterproof case for photographic equipment (optional)
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