Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and spiritual heart of Bhutan at the Black-Necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Gompa—a rare celebration where ancient traditions, sacred masked dances, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes come together in honour of the revered black-necked cranes. This unforgettable journey offers a deeper connection to Bhutan’s living heritage, set against the beauty and serenity of the Phobjikha Valley.
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Explore the vibrant capital of Thimphu, stand beneath the towering Buddha Dordenma, cross the misty heights of Dochula Pass, and wander the fertile valleys of Punakha.
Hike through serene forests and sacred wetlands in Phobjikha Valley, visit ancient monasteries and dzongs steeped in history, and experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality through farmhouse dining, traditional performances, and a restorative hot stone bath.
The journey culminates with the unforgettable hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery—one of the Himalayas’ most extraordinary spiritual sites.
The Land of the Thunder Dragon
- 6 Nov - 15 Nov 2026 - ALMOST FULL!
- 6 Nov - 15 Nov 2027 - SPACE AVAILABLE
- 6 Nov - 15 Nov 2028 - SPACE AVAILABLE
GRADE 2 -This journey involves hiking from village to village at lower elevations, with no significant altitude exposure. It is suitable for first-time trekkers who have completed consistent training and are confident walking up to 5 hours per day on well-defined but uneven terrain.
Trails may include stone steps, dirt roads, terraced farmland, forest paths, and occasional jungle sections. While accommodation and logistics are thoughtfully arranged, some areas are remote and facilities may be basic. Flexibility is essential. Weather, local conditions, or cultural events may require itinerary adjustments, which can result in longer walking days. A moderate level of fitness, stability on uneven ground, and a positive, adaptable mindset are required.
This is a hotel based tour. It is likely you will have to share a room with a group member of the same gender while in Bhutan. Single supplement is possible when in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The tour is an all inclusive package which includes your international flights from Kathmandu, Nepal to Paro, Bhutan return, your Bhutan visas and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), all meals, hotels with ensuites, airport transfers, private vehicles, drivers, permits, and the Heartspace guiding team.
Not Included: International flights, travel insurance, extra nights’ accommodation and food outside of the tour dates, tipping.
$5500 USD - Nov 6 – 15
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1: Nov 6 – Arrive Kathmandu (D)
Arrive in Kathmandu, explore the city, group briefing and dinner.
Day 2: Nov 7 – Enter Bhutan (B, L, D)
Fly to Paro, drive to Thimphu, and visit Takin Wildlife Preserve, the interactive Living Museum and Tashichho Dzong
Day 3: Nov 8 – Explore Thimphu & Drive to Punakha (B, L, D)
Discover Thimphu’s Buddha Dordenma, hike the Kuensel Phodrang Nature Trail, drive via Dochula Pass to Punakha and visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.
Day 4: Nov 9 – Punakha Valley Exploration (B, L, D)
Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang.
Day 5: Nov 10 – Journey to Phobjikha Valley (B, L, D)
Drive the scenic pass to Phobjikha Valley and hike the Gangtey Nature Trail around the RAMSAR recognized wetlands.
Day 6: Nov 11 – Black-Necked Crane Festival (B, L, D)
Join the festivities and experience magical Bhutanese culture and conservation effoerts at the Gangtey Monastery Black-Necked Crane festival.
Day 7: Nov 12 – Return to Paro (B, L, D)
Drive back to Paro via Dochula Pass and visit Tara Monastery.
Day 8: Nov 13 – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (B, L, D)
Hike to the iconic Taktsang Gompa, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, enjoy a hot stone bath, and farmhouse dining with cultural performances.
Day 9: Nov 14 – Fly to Kathmandu (B, D)
Fly back to Kathmandu, enjoy free time, and celebrate with a final group dinner.
Day 10: Nov 15 – Departure Day (B)
Farewell till next time from the Heartspace team!
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