Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Ladakh, Tanzania, Kenya & Georgia tours
Bhutan
This extraordinary Bhutan round trip from east to west begins with your arrival at the airport in Guwahati and takes you right across the kingdom — from the original, hardly visited east to the cultural highlights in the west.
In Samdrup Jongkhar, Trashigang, Trashi Yangtse and Mongar you encounter villages in which craftsmanship, customs and architecture are still alive today. The landscape feels rough and mysterious, and the people welcome guests with warmth and a deep sense of tradition.
In the heartland of Bumthang the spiritual soul of Bhutan reveals itself, shaped by legends of Guru Padmasambhava and Pema Lingpa as well as numerous monasteries and sacred sites. A particular highlight is the remote Phobjikha Valley, the winter home of the rare black-necked cranes from Tibet. Wide meadows, traditional villages and quiet forests turn walks and hikes into impressive nature experiences. In the west, some of the most magnificent landmarks of the kingdom await you — the colourful Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers, the lively capital Thimphu and Paro with the legendary Taktshang monastery, the “Tiger’s Nest”, which sits spectacularly on a cliff face and is one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. The ascent there is one of the unforgettable moments of this trip.
To round things off, the trip briefly takes you to Nepal, where you gather impressions of the historic royal city of Bhaktapur and the Kathmandu Valley.
This trip combines originality, spirituality, culture and nature in a unique way and creates impressions and encounters that linger long afterwards.
Drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, 3 hours, 110 km, and border crossing
On your arrival in Guwahati you will be met by your guide and driver, and we continue on to the Bhutanese border. Before we enter at Samdrup Jongkhar, we collect our exit stamp at the Indian checkpoint at Darranga, which is strictly required. Afterwards we drive just a few minutes further to our hotel. The rest of the day we can stroll through the town or undertake a hike in the surroundings. Overnight at Hotel Samdrup Jongkhar (B|L|D).
We drive through several villages such as Wamrong and Khaling, where the first school for the blind in Bhutan is located, founded by a Norwegian couple. In Kanglung we see the country’s first university before continuing on to Trashigang. The city used to be an important trading centre with Tibet and is today the largest marketplace in eastern Bhutan, where people from the remote regions of Merak and Sakteng also shop in their traditional clothing. Overnight at Lingkhar Lodge or similar (B|L|D).
We set off early for Bartsham, where a beautiful view of Trashigang Dzong opens up. In Bartsham we visit Chador Lhakhang and the local community museum with over 150 traditional artefacts. Afterwards we drive through the Ramjar valley via Khitshang and Doksum to Trashi Yangtse. This small, peaceful place is known for its masterly wood carvers and the traditional production of high-quality wooden bowls, which are valued throughout Bhutan. In addition, Trashi Yangtse is regarded as one of the culturally most authentic regions of eastern Bhutan, where ancient crafts and customs are still particularly alive. There we visit Chorten Kora, an impressive stupa from 1740, built in the style of the famous Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal. If possible, we also visit the Institute for Traditional Arts and Crafts. Overnight at the simple Karmaling Guesthouse or in a homestay (B|L|D).
We begin our hike at Pangngarteng and walk via small villages to Bechen. We reach Namruchen, where only a single family lives, and continue hiking on a farm road to Dho Ngag Choling temple with its beautiful view over the surrounding settlements. There we usually meet older residents who spend the day in prayer. We then descend steeply to Bimkhar, where we are picked up. Those who wish can continue hiking to Bechen and visit the historic Bechen Naktshang or experience a demonstration of traditional wood turning. Guests who do not wish to hike can explore the surrounding villages. Overnight at the simple Karmaling Guesthouse or in a homestay (B|L|D).
We drive to Mongar and stop along the way at Gom Kora temple, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated according to legend. We continue on to Trashigang, where we visit the imposing dzong, which towers high above the confluence of two rivers. Afterwards we drive to Drametse, a famous 16th-century monastery in which numerous Nyingma monks live today. Later we continue our journey on to Mongar.
Overnight at Wangchuk Resort or similar (B|L|D).
We drive over the 3,750-metre-high Thrumshingla pass to Bumthang and enjoy a picnic along the way. On the way we stop in Ura and visit the village and the Ura Lhakhang. Afterwards we reach Bumthang, the spiritual heart of Bhutan. Bumthang is known for its rich historical heritage, which includes legendary stories about Guru Padmasambhava, Pema Lingpa and other devoted treasure discoverers known as tertons. The land is rightly regarded as the spiritual heart in the kingdom of the Thunder Dragon. Bumthang is a fascinating blend of four magnificent valleys — Chumey, Ura, Choekhor and Tang — and the gentle landscapes are dotted with numerous religious sites that combine to form a picturesque overall picture. Alongside the unspoiled nature, we encounter friendly locals here, lively villages and an atmosphere that makes the uniqueness of this region especially tangible. After lunch we visit Kurjey Lhakhang, which is regarded as one of the most precious sanctuaries in Bhutan. Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated here in the 8th century, and important ceremonies and blessings still take place at this site today. These impressions give us a deep sense of the spiritual significance of Bumthang and let us immerse ourselves in the religious tradition of the country. Overnight at Hotel Kaila or similar (B|L|D).
We visit the Burning Lake, where Terton Pema Lingpa is said to have recovered treasures in the 15th century. Those who wish can hike for about 45 minutes steeply uphill to Kunzangdrak monastery, which looks like a small version of the Tiger’s Nest. Afterwards we drive into the Tang valley and visit the Ogyen Choling Museum, which offers interesting insights into the aristocratic life of past times. Along the way or at the museum we enjoy a picnic. On the way back we visit Ta Rimochen Lhakhang, an important Nyingma monastery with sacred rock formations and ancient legends. Overnight at Hotel Kaila or similar (B|L|D).
We first drive to Trongsa and stop along the way in the Chumey valley, where traditional yathra weavings are produced. In Trongsa we visit the mighty dzong and the Ta Dzong Museum with its valuable religious artefacts and an impressive view across the landscape. After lunch we continue on to Gangtey and enjoy the view of the remote Phobjikha Valley, where in the winter months the black-necked cranes rest. Overnight at Dewachen Resort or similar (B|L|D).
We begin with a visit to the Information Centre of the black-necked cranes, where we learn more about the behaviour, the protection programmes and the cultural significance of these rare migratory birds. The cranes are regarded as sacred in Bhutan and are welcomed every November with their own festival when they fly in from Tibet into the Phobjikha Valley and overwinter here until February or March. Afterwards we drive to Beta and continue on to Gangtey monastery, one of the most significant Nyingma monasteries in the country. From there we set off on our hike on the Gangtey Nature Trail, which takes us through the valley for about two to four hours. The path runs through forests with moss-covered pines, across soft meadow slopes and past traditional farmhouses and small villages. Wide views over the quiet high valley keep opening up, which in the winter months is visited by hundreds of black-necked cranes. At the end of the path we are picked up and then visit the temple of the Queen Mother in Kingathang. Those who wish can choose a longer or alternative hiking route, which our guide will be happy to suggest. Overnight at Dewachen Resort or similar (B|L|D).
We drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan and still today the winter residence of the monastic order. The fertile valley is known for its mild temperatures, lush rice fields and the particular significance it plays in the history of Bhutan. We cross the traditional wooden bridge and reach the magnificent Punakha Dzong, which lies majestically at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu. This dzong is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the entire country and was for a long time the seat of government and the stage of important historical events, including the coronation of earlier kings. After we have explored the impressive complex, we cross one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, which once again opens up a beautiful view over the river valley. Overnight at Hotel Meri Puensum or similar (B|L|D).
We hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which was built for protection against negative forces and offers a magnificent view of the Punakha Valley. Afterwards we drive to Thimphu and visit the famous Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the “Divine Madman”, on the way. After lunch we continue on to the Dochu La pass, where 108 chortens stand and a wide view of the Himalayan range opens up on clear days. Overnight at Pelyang Boutique or similar (B|L|D).
We visit the Astrology School, where traditional astrological calculations and arts of divination are taught, which play an important role in life decisions in Bhutan. Afterwards we hike for about one and a half hours through forests to Wangditse temple, known for its peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful view across the Thimphu Valley. We then drive to the Takin Reserve, where we can see Bhutan’s unique national animal, before having lunch in Thimphu. In the afternoon we enjoy a magnificent view over the capital from Buddha Point and admire the monumental 52-metre-high Buddha statue. Afterwards we drive on to Paro, one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. Overnight at Hotel Tashi Namgay or similar (B|L|D).
We hike up to the world-famous Tiger’s Nest, which clings to a cliff face around 900 metres above the valley. After a short drive we leave Paro and reach the starting point of the trail to Taktshang monastery. We begin early in the morning, as there are fewer visitors on the path at this time and the temperatures are pleasant — ideal conditions for the ascent. The sacred monastery sits at about 3,100 metres above the Paro Valley and is regarded as one of the most important spiritual sites in Bhutan. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century in order to defeat demons and anchor Buddhism in the country. The path first leads steeply through the forest until, after about an hour and a half, we reach the tea house with a magnificent viewpoint. Those who wish can rest here while the others continue on the final, partly stepped sections up to the monastery. In total the hike lasts around five hours and leads over unpaved paths and many steps, which is why sturdy footwear, sun protection, sufficient water and possibly trekking poles are highly recommended. In the afternoon we visit a traditional farmhouse and get an authentic insight into the daily life of the people in Bhutan. Overnight at Hotel Tashi Namgay or similar (B|L|D).
Farewell to our guide and drive to Paro airport. With the farewell to Bhutan, an impressive journey through the land of the Thunder Dragon comes to an end for us — from east to west we have experienced monasteries, mountain passes, high valleys and traditional villages and have gathered numerous warm encounters. The variety of landscapes and impressions now accompanies us on to Nepal. At the airport in Kathmandu we are already expected, warmly welcomed and then driven to our hotel in Bhaktapur. After arrival there is time for a short rest in order to settle in. After the break our sightseeing guide picks us up. Bhaktapur, located about 17 km east of the capital, experienced its greatest heyday between the 12th and 15th centuries as the capital of the Malla kingdom. Many of the temples and palace complexes visible today date from this era and still bear witness to the wealth and artistic significance of the city, which was once the cultural and political centre of the Kathmandu Valley. Durbar Square, with its artful temples, statues and magnificent buildings, forms the heart of the old royal city. A labyrinth of narrow, quiet lanes leads to traditional craft workshops, potteries and wood carvings, which shape the cityscape and give Bhaktapur its particular charm. It is worth taking your time to enjoy the atmosphere of this cultural centre in peace. Overnight at Hotel Bhaktapur Heritage House or an accommodation of similar category (B).
Today we explore Kathmandu together with a local guide. We visit some of the most significant religious places of the city. First we make our way to the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath on the banks of the Bagmati river, one of the most sacred places in Nepal. Here you will also find the traditional cremation grounds, where Hindu rituals and farewell ceremonies take place. Afterwards we continue on to the impressive Buddhist Boudhanath Stupa, adorned with colourful prayer flags. For centuries it has been a central point of attraction for Buddhist pilgrims, who circumambulate it in prayer, turn prayer wheels and murmur mantras (kora). Finally we visit the Buddhist-Hindu temple complex of Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, which is reached by a long stairway and offers great views over the Kathmandu Valley. The order of the visits may change depending on the traffic situation and the daily schedule. Overnight at Hotel Kathmandu Guest House or similar (B).
Today we enjoy our last free time in Nepal. Depending on the return flight, we have the opportunity to stroll through the streets once more, do some last shopping for souvenirs or simply let the special atmosphere of Kathmandu sink in. Afterwards we say our goodbyes and drive together to Kathmandu airport, from where we begin our journey home. The many impressions, warm encounters and special moments of this trip will stay with us for a long time and remain in fond memory — perhaps one day we will return to this fascinating region. (B).
We reserve the right to make changes to the programme due to special events, force majeure or weather conditions.
B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner
This tour can be booked privately for you or your group on any date, and also with a German-speaking guide, for an additional fee.
| Status | Date | Price | Language | Info | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bookable | 27.09. – 12.10.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
 EN |
Inquire | |
| Bookable | 03.10. – 18.10.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 11.10. – 26.10.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 18.10. – 02.11.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Jakar Tshechu in Bumthang | Inquire |
| Bookable | 24.10. – 08.11.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 31.10. – 15.11.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 07.11. – 22.11.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 14.11. – 29.11.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 21.11. – 06.12.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 28.11. – 13.12.2026 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 10.03. – 25.03.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
 DE |
Paro Tshechu | Inquire |
| Bookable | 27.03. – 11.04.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 04.04. – 19.04.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Rhododendron Festival | Inquire |
| Bookable | 15.04. – 30.04.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Ura Yakchoe | Inquire |
| Bookable | 24.04. – 09.05.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 01.05. – 16.05.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 15.05. – 30.05.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 22.05. – 06.06.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 01.10. – 16.10.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Thimphu | Inquire |
| Bookable | 06.10. – 21.10.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Gangtey Tshechu | Inquire |
| Bookable | 16.10. – 31.10.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
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| Bookable | 23.10. – 07.11.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Inquire | |
| Bookable | 02.11. – 17.11.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Jakar Tshechu Bumthang | Inquire |
| Bookable | 11.11. – 26.11.2027 | 4.990 € EZZ 680 € |
EN |
Jambay Lhakhang Bumthang | Inquire |
Read what our guests share about their experiences on this and other tours.
Mit geoDiscovery waren wir mit Kathmandu gestartet. Schon die ersten Stunden fühlten sich an wie ein Eintauchen in eine völlig neue Welt.Die Teilnahme an einem privaten „Mha Puja“-Fest war ein…
Read full report →Currently, no mandatory vaccinations are required for entry to Bhutan. Vaccination protection against tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A is recommended. Please seek advice in good time, ideally about three months before the start of your journey, from your family doctor or a specialist in tropical or travel medicine.
The visa fees for Bhutan are included in the price. The visa application is handled by geoDiscovery Tours.
The visa fees for Nepal and India are not included in the price and must be applied for by you yourself. We are happy to advise you on this.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of travel and have at least two free pages.
Bhutan’s climate varies greatly depending on altitude: the central valleys (Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang) are semi-tropical, while higher regions such as Thimphu, Trongsa and Bumthang have an alpine climate with winter snow and occasional pass closures. The south is tropical, the east somewhat warmer than the west.
Spring (March–May): Mild 15–20 °C in higher valleys, cool nights
Summer (June–September): Warm (25–29 °C), heavy monsoon
Autumn (September–November): Best time to travel with clear skies, mild weather
Winter (December–March): Sunny days with 10–16 °C, often below 0 °C at night
Travel health insurance including rescue and recovery costs is mandatory for safety reasons and a prerequisite for booking our journeys. Taking out trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance is strongly recommended, as low-cost flights in particular usually cannot be rebooked or cancelled free of charge, and weather- or health-related reasons may make it necessary to interrupt the journey.
We have asked ERGO Reiseversicherung to put together various service packages for you. You can book the right travel health insurance at www.reiseversicherung.de.
