Year-round

Bhutan in Comfort: The Lodge Circuit - Signature

Bhutan in Comfort: The Lodge Circuit - Signature

Active

Light–Moderate

Downtime

Generous

Things to know

Ten days through Bhutan’s western valleys and Phobjikha, built around premium lodges, unhurried pacing, private guiding, wellness time, and one active morning at Tiger’s Nest. The route moves Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and back to Paro, with long afternoons left deliberately open.

Culture

Himalayas

Luxury

Mountains

Nature

Trip Highlights

What’s Included

Move lodge to lodge through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Phobjikha

Wellness time and hot stone bath where the property offers it

Senior Farbound trip lead and licensed Bhutanese guide throughout

Bhutan SDF, route permissions, monument entries, and local coordination arranged

Why Farbound

Curated for You

Trips designed around your interests, pace, and preferences

Comfort, scaled to Fit

Trips designed around your interests, pace, and preferences

Connections, Not Crowd

Trips designed around your interests, pace, and preferences

From

$12,500 per person

Indicative pricing — your exact quote is tailored to your group, dates, and preferences

Couples

Family

Solo

Check FAQs

Day to Day Itineraries

Day 1 - Arrival into Paro

The Himalayan descent, your first lodge, and a hot stone bath to land.

The banking descent into Paro between ridgelines, onto Bhutan's only international runway.
Met by your trip lead and licensed guide; private transfer to the lodge.
A traditional hot stone bath where the property offers it.
Easy evening by the river or on the lodge grounds.
Welcome dinner.

Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Paro, or similar

Day 2 - Paro valley, unhurried

Kyichu Lhakhang, a gentle valley walk, and a full spa afternoon before moving on.

Kyichu Lhakhang in the cool of the morning — one of Bhutan's oldest temples, unchanged in centuries.
A short valley walk or farmhouse visit at an easy pace.
The afternoon free for the lodge spa.
Dinner at the lodge.

Breakfast, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Paro, or similar

Day 3 - Paro to Thimphu

The capital taken slowly — the Buddha Dordenma, the living dzong, and the rest at your pace.

Drive to Thimphu, about an hour.
The Buddha Dordenma and Tashichho Dzong in the afternoon.
The craft bazaar, a café, or the lodge — the rest at your pace.
Dinner at a chosen Thimphu table.

Breakfast, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses Thimphu, or similar

Day 4 - Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass

Over the pass and its 108 chortens, down to the warm Punakha valley and its great riverside dzong.

Cross Dochula Pass (3,100m) with its chortens and Himalayan view.
Descend into the lower, warmer Punakha valley.
Punakha Dzong at the river confluence, across the long suspension footbridge.
Settle into the Punakha lodge; dinner.

Breakfast, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Punakha, or similar

Day 5 - Punakha valley

Rice fields, Chimi Lhakhang, riverside time, and a long afternoon entirely off.

Walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang.
Time by the Mo Chhu — the river is wide and calm here.
A leisurely lunch in the valley.
The afternoon free for the lodge and spa.
Dinner at the lodge.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Punakha, or similar

Day 6 - Punakha to Gangtey (Phobjikha)

The long, scenic drive out to Phobjikha — the most remote valley of the journey.

A scenic, unhurried drive climbing through oak and rhododendron forest into the Phobjikha valley.
Phobjikha is a broad, glacier-carved bowl, largely farmland and wetland — one of the most unusual landscapes in Bhutan.
Arrive at the lodge as the valley light goes long.
Dinner at the lodge.

Breakfast, Dinner

Gangtey Lodge / Amankora / Six Senses Gangtey, or similar

Day 7 - Phobjikha valley

Gangtey Goempa, the valley nature trail, and the black-necked cranes in season.

Gangtey Goempa on its hill — a 17th-century monastery with views across the full width of the valley.
The Gangtey Nature Trail: a gentle walk through the village and across the wetland floor.
In winter (roughly late October to February): the black-necked cranes that migrate from Tibet, best watched from the Crane Information Centre at the valley's edge.
A long afternoon at the lodge.
Dinner at the lodge.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gangtey Lodge / Amankora / Six Senses Gangtey, or similar

Day 8 - Gangtey to Paro

The long drive back west to Paro, broken well at Dochula Pass.

Return drive to Paro over Dochula Pass — we break it well with stops along the ridge.
Arrive Paro in the afternoon.
An easy evening ahead of the Tiger's Nest morning.
Dinner at the lodge.

Breakfast, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Paro, or similar

Day 9 - Tiger's Nest (Taktsang Monastery)

The one active morning of the journey — Taktsang on its cliff, 900m above the valley.

An early start (gate opens 8am). The trail gains roughly 520m from the trailhead; 4–6 hours round trip at a steady pace.
Horse to the halfway cafeteria and a turnaround viewpoint both available.
Inside the monastery: cave shrines and butter lamps.
Hot stone bath at the lodge and a farewell dinner.

Breakfast, Dinner

Amankora / Six Senses / COMO Uma Paro, or similar

Day 10 - Departure from Paro

An unhurried final morning and onward departure.

An unhurried breakfast.
Private transfer to Paro Airport, timed to your flight.

Breakfast

FAQs

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What is the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) in Bhutan?

Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per night (as of 2024). This is included in all Farbound Bhutan packages. The SDF covers a carbon-neutral pledge, free healthcare, education, and conservation - it is Bhutan's model for high-value, low-impact tourism.

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Do I need a visa to visit Bhutan?

Yes. All visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) require a visa, which must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Farbound handles the entire visa process for you - you cannot obtain a Bhutan visa independently.

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What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most popular seasons - clear skies, mild temperatures, and the most vibrant festival calendar. Winter (December-February) is cold but beautiful with snowcapped peaks and far fewer visitors. Monsoon (June-August) brings lush green landscapes.

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What festivals can I attend in Bhutan?

Bhutan's Tsechu festivals are spectacular - masked dances performed by monks at ancient dzongs. Major festivals include Paro Tsechu (March/April), Thimphu Tsechu (September/October), and Punakha Drubchen (February/March). We build itineraries around festival dates on request.

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Is altitude sickness a concern in Bhutan?

Most of Bhutan's main tourist areas sit between 2,200m and 2,800m. Mild symptoms (headache, fatigue) are possible, especially on arrival. We build in acclimatisation days and advise arriving well-rested and hydrated. Consult your GP if you have a history of altitude sensitivity.

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What currency does Bhutan use?

Bhutan uses the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged 1:1 to the Indian Rupee. USD is the standard currency for international payments. Indian Rupees are also accepted. We advise bringing USD cash as ATMs can be unreliable outside Thimphu and Paro.

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What is included in a Bhutan tour with Farbound?

All Farbound Bhutan packages include the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), accommodation, all meals, a licensed Bhutanese guide, internal transport, and monument entry fees. International flights are arranged separately unless specified.

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What should I wear in Bhutan?

Bhutan has a strong dress code at dzongs and official sites - long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders are required. The mountain air turns cold at night even in summer, so layering is essential. We send a detailed packing list once your booking is confirmed.

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Can I trek in Bhutan?

Bhutan is one of the world's finest trekking destinations. The Druk Path (5 days) and Snowman Trek (24 days) are the most famous, but we offer a range of day hikes and multi-day treks to suit all fitness levels. The Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang) hike is a must for almost every itinerary.

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What is NOT included in the price?

International flights, visa fees, travel insurance, personal spending, tips for guides and drivers, and meals not listed in the itinerary. A clear inclusions and exclusions list is in every quote we send.

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What should I pack for Bhutan or a mountain trip?

Warm layers are essential - temperatures drop sharply at altitude and after dark even in summer. A good fleece, windproof jacket, thermal base layers, sturdy walking boots, and sunscreen for high-altitude UV. Modest clothing is required at dzongs. We send a detailed altitude-specific packing list.

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Should I bring local currency or can I use cards?

A mix of both is ideal. Cards are accepted at most hotels and large restaurants, but local markets, tuk-tuks, tips, and smaller guesthouses are cash-only. We recommend having USD as an emergency backup - it's accepted or exchangeable almost everywhere we operate.

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Do you arrange flights?

We can arrange flights as part of a full package or advise on the best routing and airlines for your trip. Many clients prefer to book flights independently for flexibility with points and upgrades - we're happy to work either way and will give you the ideal arrival and departure airport for your itinerary.

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How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 3-6 months ahead for peak season travel (October-March for South Asia). Bhutan during festival season can need 6-12 months lead time. That said we've pulled together excellent last-minute trips - if your dates are flexible get in touch and we'll see what's possible.

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Can I customise my itinerary?

Absolutely - customisation is what we do. Every Farbound itinerary is built around your interests, pace, travel style, and budget. Whether you want to add a cooking class in Kerala, a yoga retreat in Rishikesh, or an extra night at a tea estate, just tell us and we'll design it for you.

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What is included in the price?

Our packages typically include accommodation, all meals as specified, private transfers, a local guide, entrance fees, and internal transport. International flights are usually separate unless stated. The exact inclusions are listed on every itinerary and quoted in writing before you confirm.

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How do I pay and what are the payment terms?

We typically require a deposit of 20-30% at booking to secure your itinerary and accommodation, with the balance due 60 days before departure. For last-minute bookings full payment is taken upfront. We accept bank transfer and major credit cards. Full payment terms are in your booking confirmation.

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What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than 60 days before departure receive a full refund minus the deposit. Between 30-60 days we retain 50% of the total cost. Within 30 days the full amount is non-refundable. We always recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations. Full terms are in your booking agreement.

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Is there a single room supplement?

Yes, single travellers occupy a private room and a supplement applies as hotels charge on a per-room basis. The exact supplement varies by property and destination. We always quote this clearly upfront and work to minimise it where possible - some boutique properties have more affordable single rates.

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Do you run group tours or private only?

Farbound specialises in private, bespoke journeys. You won't be sharing a vehicle or guide with strangers. For travellers who prefer a social group setting, we can occasionally match solo travellers or small groups - get in touch to discuss.

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What happens if something goes wrong on my trip?

We have a 24/7 emergency contact for all guests travelling with Farbound. Our local partners are experienced in handling medical issues, itinerary changes, and unexpected situations. We also ensure all guests have comprehensive travel insurance before they travel.

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Is Bhutan suitable for a honeymoon?

Bhutan is extraordinarily romantic - private dzongs at dusk, remote mountain lodges, and an atmosphere of serene calm. The Tiger's Nest hike at sunrise is genuinely unforgettable. We tailor honeymoon itineraries with private dining experiences, in-room touches, and pacing that allows you to savour every moment.

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What special arrangements do you make for honeymooners?

We notify all hotels that you're on honeymoon, arrange room upgrades where possible, coordinate special turndowns, sunset dinners, and private experiences. Just let us know at the time of enquiry - the earlier we know, the more we can organise.

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Do you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes - vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher, and severe allergy requirements are all manageable with advance notice. South Asia is exceptionally accommodating for vegetarian and vegan diets in particular. Please tell us at the time of enquiry so we can brief every restaurant and property on your itinerary.

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Can I drink the water?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Sri Lanka, India, or Bhutan. All reputable hotels provide filtered or bottled water. We advise carrying a reusable bottle with a built-in filter (e.g. LifeStraw or GRAYL) to reduce plastic waste - Bhutan in particular encourages this as part of its sustainability ethos.

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Should I take out travel insurance before booking?

Yes - and we ask that you do so before final payment. A good policy covers medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage. Adventure activities (trekking, rafting, safaris) must be explicitly covered. We're happy to recommend providers if you need a starting point.