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Exploring Bhutan

Travel Bhutan in Style: Short Luxury Trip

In just 6 nights, this itinerary offers a fantastic glimpse into Bhutan’s must-see spots while diving into local culture. You’ll stay in some of the most stunning boutique accommodations, blending tradition with luxury, and enjoy impeccable service with transfers in upgraded SUV vehicles.

With direct flights from London, your Bhutan escape kicks off and wraps up in Singapore. In this small island nation, you’ll have enough time to see the highlights, get off the beaten track, eat your fill of incredible food, and marvel at the country’s history, culture, and forward-thinking endeavors.

As all Fleewinter holidays are bespoke, this itinerary is meant to inspire you. We can change hotels, activities, the number of nights, and just about anything else so that you get the holiday you’re seeking. Do get in touch and we’ll help you see Bhutan in style.

Your Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Singapore

Arrive today and transfer to the iconic Raffles Hotel in the heart of Singapore. One of the most luxurious hotels in the country, expect impeccable service, quiet rooms, and historic elegance with contemporary comfort. Other hotels are available although none quite like this one. Be sure to have the hotel’s historian give you a tour during your stay.

Day 2 - Gourmet Food & Night Ride

Discover Singapore through its food with a tour this morning that includes Michelin-awarded hawker fare. You’ll get a sense of the country’s multicultural history and more than a few bites to eat. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish before a night time ride in the sidecars of vintage Vespas. There’s no better way to see the city lit up at night!

Day 3 - Culture, Gardens & Greenery

See why Singapore is the city in a garden today with visits to the National Botanic Gardens and Gardens by the Bay. Start by seeing a bit of the colonial district and the heritage enclaves of Chinatown and Little India or Kampong Glam before a visit to the National Orchid Gallery and the gardens. After lunch, spend time with your guide in the futuristic jungles of Gardens by the Bay.

Day 4 - Hidden Singapore

Escape the tourist trails: stroll Henderson Waves, explore the legendary Haw Par Villa, visit a Chinese ancestral place of worship, pay your respects at the Kranji War Memorial and Cemetery, and enter a town known as the heartlands to see how most of Singapore lives and learn how housing development changed the nation’s history and its future.

Day 5 - Singapore to Bhutan

After a relaxing morning, transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight to Paro, Bhutan. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome with vibrant ceremonial songs and dances by local performers in traditional attire, accompanied by monks blessings and playing cymbals and bells. This special ceremony honors the King and VIPs. Then, drive to Thimphu, the capital, and, time permitting, visit the stunning Tashichho Dzong.

Day 6 - Culture, Traditions & Happiness

Today, explore Thimphu, visiting key sites like the Memorial Chorten, Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, and the Buddha Dordenma. Visit the Simply Bhutan Museum, discover unique items at the Post Office, and learn about Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts at Zorig Chosum. In the evening, enjoy a talk on Bhutan’s holistic development philoosphy, Gross National Happiness (GNH), versus Gross National Product.

7 - Journey to Punakha: Scenic Drives to Sacred Sites

Today, embark on a scenic three-hour drive through the mountains to Punakha. Enjoy a leisurely walk through rice paddies and charming villages to reach Chhimi Lakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” an eccentric enlightened monk. Explore Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most stunning fortresses. In the evening, unwind at your luxurious tented villa.

8 - Mountain Villages & Monasteries

Experience the subtropical valley of Punakha today. Head up to Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, where you can admire breathtaking valley views and a magnificent bronze sculpture of Avalokiteshvara. Explore the charming villages of Talo or Nobgang, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s Queen Mothers. And visit Nalanda Monastery, where friendly monks are eager to practice their English.

9 - Paro’s Heritage

Today, cross back over the mountain pass to Paro, a place rich in culture, stunning landscapes, and intriguing myths. Explore Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and more important temples, built in the 7th century when Buddhism was first introduced. Visit the National Museum and stop by a local farmhouse, to learn more about the local way of living.

10 - Hiking to the Legendary Tiger's Nest

After acclimating to the altitude, it’s time for an unforgettable hike to Bhutan’s iconic Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest. This 4-5 hour trek ascends 900 meters to the stunning monastery perched on a cliff’s edge—a dream come true for many. Marvel at the impressive restoration completed after the 1998 fire. Wind down this evening in Paro, and we highly recommend enjoying a traditional hot stone bath to soothe your muscles!

Day 11 - Depart the Mountain Kingdom

This morning, you will be transferred to Paro Airport for your flight back to Singapore. To extend the serenity of Bhutan, we suggest spending the night at a boutique hotel by the beach, where you can unwind away from the city lights. There are also options like an airport hotel, or you might choose to add a few extra nights by the ocean for a more relaxing getaway.

 

Day 12 - Homeward Bound

Pack your bags one last time and transfer to Changi International Airport for your flight homeward. If your flight departs in the evening, consider going early and checking luggage then exploring Jewel with its incredible indoor waterfall.

Safe travels!

DETAILS -

In low season, this itinerary starts at £4,655 per person based on 2 sharing and including all private transfers by land but excludes international flights. Exact schedules and sights visited may change based on season, day of the week, weather, special events, and national holidays.

As there are no flights from the UK to Bhutan, this sample itinerary requires international flights to Singapore. While we can book these flights for you, a booking fee will apply. If you prefer to start or end the trip in another destination, do get in touch and we’ll be happy to discuss the options with you.

What's included?

INCLUDED:
  • Prices start from £4,655 per person
  • Accommodation on B&B basis in Singapore
  • Lunch on days 3 & 4 in Singapore
  • Accommodation on Half or Full Board basis in Bhutan
  • Lunches at local tourist restaurants in Bhutan
  • Private transfers (luxury air-conditioned vehicle)
  • All entrance fees with service of English speaking guide for excursions
  • Local taxes
  • Bhutan visa fee
  • Sustainable Development Fee
  • All trips are ATOL protected or ABTA bonded to ensure you are fully covered

Prices are correct at time of publication and subject to change.

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Paro
Home to the country's only international airport and the well-known cliffside Paro Taktsang or Tiger's Nest monastery, your holiday will almost certainly start and end here.
Thimphu
This capital city is the largest in the nation and although it's becoming more modern, it maintains its historic character and charm. Home to many museums and other sights that provide insight into Bhutanese culture, Thimphu is worth at least two nights on your holiday.
Punakha
Generally considered the most beautiful fortress in a country full of stunning buildings, Punakha Dzong alone makes it worth visiting this small city in a subtropical valley. The drive over mountain passes is memorable and on a clear day, the views are spectacular.
Gangtey
If you're hoping to see black-necked cranes, the Gangtey region will be on your itinerary. Late October is typically the best month to see these rare birds coming through although you may see them all the way into February.
Bumthang
Many call this the cultural heart of the country, and if time allows for a visit to Bumthang, you'll be well rewarded. Bring good walking shoes as some of the best sights are seen on foot.

Your adventure starts here!

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