The Last Shangri-la

- A Secret Retreats journey -

7 days / 6 nights

from 5,400 USD /person

ITINERARY BOOK

This journey has been personally designed by Karma Lotey who originates from beautiful Trongsa, nestled in Central Bhutan. His educational journey spans across Bhutan, India, and the United States, offering him a diverse perspective on both local and international dynamics. Leveraging his adeptness in outdoor activities alongside his managerial acumen, Karma curates adventure programs aimed at ensuring visitors experience the utmost satisfaction.

All our itineraries have generally been constructed on the basis of the rooms that have the most charm or best view, and not necessarily the first prices, nor the most expensive suites.
We can of course adjust according to your request.

Highlights of the Journey:

Thimphu, the capital, and its famous textiles
Punakha,a fertile valley with a mild climate
Paro and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery

The Kingdom of Bhutan, often referred to as Bhutan the Last Shangri-La, is a small, land-locked country with about 750,000 inhabitants, renowned for being the happiest country in the world. Bhutan’s unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and development makes it an unparalleled destination.
This Shangri-La Bhutan tour package offers an immersive journey through the Himalayan kingdom, where the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH)—the balance between economic and emotional well-being—takes precedence over GDP. Bhutan is ranked as one of the top 10 safest countries in the world and is the only carbon-negative country, with over 70% of the land forested and no traffic lights.
This Shangri-La Bhutan tour itinerary invites you to uncover giant temples etched into cliffs and peaks, explore bustling markets, and delve into the rich traditions of Bhutan’s people. Climb higher than ever before, both physically and spiritually, and wind through magnificent valleys and pine forests. Experience the true essence of Bhutan, the Last Shangri-La, where history and scenery converge in perfect harmony.

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Your Journey Day by Day

from 5,400 USD /person for 7 days / 6 nights

based on 2 person sharing the same room

Day 1 : Thimphu (-/L/D)

Your Shangri-La Bhutan tours begin as you arrive at Paro Airport, where your personal guide and driver will greet you and drive you to Thimphu. The journey to Thimphu (1hr) starts with breathtaking views of the Himalayan Giants. Upon arrival in Thimphu, you will check in at your hotel before visiting the Textile Museum and the Memorial Chorten.
After lunch, your sightseeing continues with a panoramic view of Thimphu from a scenic viewpoint. On your way back check out the small zoo in the pine trees to spot some Takins, the national animal of Bhutan. Your next stop is a trip to the Buddha Point. The Buddha Dordenma is seated amidst the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, the palace of Sherab Wangchuck, the thirteenth Desi Druk, overlooking the southern approach to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. It is one of the largest Buddha stupas in the world, at a height of 169 feet.
After embarking on remarkable sights, you will return back to the hotel to relax for the rest of the day.

HOTEL: Zhiwaling Ascent (Deluxe Room)

Day 2 : Thimphu (B/L/D)

After breakfast, continue exploring Thimphu’s cultural landmarks, including the School for Traditional Arts and Crafts, the Traditional Paper “Desho” making factory, and the Craft Bazaar. Your Shangri-La Bhutan tour package also includes visits to the Handmade Paper Factory, Textile Academy & Museum, and the Handicraft Emporium run by the National Women’s Association of Bhutan Folk Heritage Museum, The traditional Thirteen Arts Crafts School, and The Archery grounds. You might be lucky to catch an archery competition, Bhutan’s national sport.
If there is more time, enjoy more of Thimphu’s vibrant markets before returning to your resort for a relaxing evening.

HOTEL: Zhiwaling Ascent (Deluxe Room)

Day 3 : Thimphu - Phunakha (B/L/D)

Make sure to have some breakfast and check out. Be ready to be driven to Punakha via Dochula Pass which will take roughly 1 hour. The pass is a popular location as it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayan Mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 Tibetan Buddhist stupas gracing the mountain pass. From Dochula pass, drive onwards for 1 and a half hours, en-route to Punakha, hike, and visit the temple dedicated to the Divine Mad Monk - Drukpa Kuenley. The hike takes about an hour and a half to return to the car road. Return to the car and be driven to your next stay at Dhensa Boutique Resort, which blends traditional styles with modern tastes in its architecture and interior design to give you the best stay in the middle of pine forests and rice fields.
This day is a key part of the Shangri-La Bhutan tours experience, bringing you closer to Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich culture.

HOTEL: Dhensa Boutique Resort (Suite)

Day 4 : Phunakha (B/L/D)

The next day begins with breakfast so that you have enough energy for a short hike through the fields of rice, chilies, and cabbage, to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a monument dedicated to the 5th King of Bhutan. Explore the Punakha Dzong, built on the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers. This fortress is the winter residence of the Central monastic orders and its Chief abbot. We will spare some time for lunch, then visit a farmhouse and meet with the farmers and their family so they can share with you their livelihood. After sharing stories, head back to your hotel to stretch your toes and relax.
This day of your Bhutan Shangri-La tour ends with relaxation at your resort.

HOTEL: Dhensa Boutique Resort (Suite)

Day 5 : Phunakha - Paro (B/L/D)

Rise and shine with a bountiful breakfast, check out, and prepare yourself to fly over to Paro and begin your day with a visit to the Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower now housing the National Museum. A museum filled with costumes from the different regions of Bhutan along with a wonderful collection of painted and appliquéd thangkas. You will have the opportunity to stroll in downtown Paro this afternoon. We will also visit the Oldest 7th Century Kyichu Monastery.
After an eventful day, arriving at the resort you will meet with intricate detailed buildings brimming with culture and history. Here you will have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the resort’s activities such as yoga and Bhutanese, the resort’s very own traditional tea house, and even visit the in-house spiritual temple in the resort.
Please keep in mind these additional activities are included in the itinerary’s price. As part of the Shangri-La Bhutan tours, these experiences enhance your connection to Bhutan's heritage.

HOTEL: Zhiwaling Heritage (Junior Suite)

Day 6 : Paro (B/L/D)

Your day starts with breakfast before hiking to Taktsang, the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This serene monastery clings to a steep granite cliff about 700 meters above the valley floor. Legend has it that the Guru Padmasambhava flew to this rocky cave in the 8th century to meditate. He flew here on the back of a tigress, hence the name. Being one of the most revered pilgrim sites, many thousands of pilgrims come here every year, some walking for a month to reach here. The surrounding area has many temples, monasteries, and cells where many monks, nuns, and lay people can meditate, for some even for a lifetime. Although we are not allowed inside the monastery, we can hike up to the viewpoint, where a cafeteria is situated. From here you can get the most breathtaking view of Taktsang. It takes about 2 hours to get there and about 2 hours to return. This revered pilgrimage site is a highlight of the Shangri-La Bhutan tour itinerary.
After the hike, return to your resort for your last night in Bhutan.

HOTEL: Zhiwaling Heritage (Junior Suite)

Day 7 : Paro airport (B/-/-)

After breakfast, your Bhutan the Last Shangri-La adventure concludes as you bid farewell to your guide and driver and depart from Paro Airport.

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End of Our services
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Your Accommodation on this Asia Travel Itinerary

Zhiwaling Ascent

Zhiwaling Heritage

Dhensa Boutique Resort

The Last Shangri-la

7 days / 6 nights

from 5,400 USD /person

based on 2 person sharing the same room

Visa for Bhutan

Travel Insurance

The total price includes:
All Accommodation for 6 nights
Visa to Bhutan and the compulsory Sustainability Development Tax
All transfers by private, spacious, air-conditioned car, with a professional driver.
All meals as mentioned (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
All excursions and activities as detailed within the program with an English-speaking Guide
All entry fees for places visited within the program.
Government taxes as currently in force.

The total price does not include:
International flights to and from Bhutan
Extra activities and meals not mentioned in the program
Beverages, personal expenses, and other services not clearly mentioned
Tipping guides and drivers, which are of course not mandatory, but always appreciated, are subject to your discretion.
Travel insurance (recommended)

This Secret Journey was designed in cooperation with Yangphel Travel (license #1000138)

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