Best of Bhutan with Zara Fleming

Bhutan

Culture | Festivals

Travel Bhutan - west to east

14 days £4,495 pp This is the per person group tour price, based on 2 sharing. The price is subject to change with exchange rate and flight cost fluctuations.
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Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

Cutting a swathe east through the heavenly foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan with Zara invites you to journey into the heart of this tiny kingdom that was all but closed to the outside world until the 1970s. See lamas and dzongs, black cranes and gongs. While letting your heart be captivated by the country, its customs and its people, let your appreciation of Bhutanese art and culture be enriched by the insights of our tour leader, Zara Fleming.

In leading this tour, Zara can call upon decades of knowledge accumulated from exhibiting, lecturing, and tour guiding on the artistic and cultural heritage of Tibet, Bhutan and the Himalayas. Under her able guidance, start your tour in the nation’s capital, Thimphu. Learn why its most important cultural landmarks are so revered. In the only nation that values gross national happiness over gross domestic product, join Zara in search of the underpinnings of this unique approach to life.

Traverse Bhutan's beautiful country with its dramatic mountain scenery to discover more about the importance of Mahayana Buddhism, past and present, in the lives of its 800,000 people. Go in search of a black crane so beloved they named an annual festival after it. Experience spirituality in the four valleys of Bumthang. Be uplifted into the thinner air of the Thrumshing La, going past waterfalls, cliffs and lush Himalayan vegetation. Our journey reaches its peak at Trashigang Dzong, the 400 year-old sky fortress built to ward off invading Tibetans. It is there you will attend the Trashigang Tshechu Festival, a once-a-year event, steeped in legend and performed in ceremonial dress and colourful masks.

This trip has a maximum group size of 16 people.

Read more about Zara here.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Bhutanese art & culture in museums of Thimphu
  • Rural walks in remote valleys and mountain passes
  • Explore Bumthang's valleys by foot
  • Visit Mongar, eastern Bhutan's fastest developing district
  • Trashigang Tshechu Festival
  • Admire majestic views of the Himalayas
  • Sacred sites in Paro valley
  • Hike up to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery

Places Visited

Thimphu - Punakha - Phobjikha valley - Gangtey - Trongsa - Bumthang - Mongar - Trashigang - Paro

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Domestic flights (if relevant - refer to itinerary)
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

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Itinerary & Map
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Day 1 : Arrival Paro - Thimpu

Fly into Bhutan’s only international airport in Paro. Be met by your Travel the Unknown representative who will be waiting to transfer you on the 90-minute road trip to the start of our journey, the capital Thimphu. En route, stop at the small temple of Tachogang Lhakang, a good introduction to Buddhism in Bhutan. Depending on our arrival time in the capital, there may be a chance to catch the faithful circumambulating the King's Memorial Chorten.

Thimphu will be your base for the next two nights.

Overnight in Hotel Phuntsho Pelri, Thimphu

Meal plan: Lunch & dinner

The King's Memorial Chorten is commonly called the 'most visible religious landmark in Bhutan'. It is continuously circled by people in clockwise direction who murmur mantras and spin large red prayer wheels, as is custom in all Bhutanese religious structures. This landmark was constructed in honor of Bhutan's third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk ('the father of modern Bhutan'). Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, the monument is dedicated to world peace and prosperity, as well as a memorial to the king. 

The Thimphu Tsechu Festival is one of Bhutan’s grandest festivals and attracts the largest audience. Featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen in amazing masks and costumes, Tsechus (festivals) are one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan. They are held in honour of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. This festival was established by the 4th Temporal Ruler, Tenzing Rabgye (1638-1696) in 1670 and provides a great opportunity to witness locals gathered in their finest Gho’s and Kira’s in a celebration of their culture and faith.

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Day 2 : Thimphu

A full day exploring the ins and outs of this small capital city. Starting with the Changangkha Lhakhang, perched on a hill overlooking the town and one of the Thimphu valley’s oldest temples. Understand more about the diversity of weaving and ceremonial costumes found in Bhutan at the Textile Museum, and learn about Bhutanese painting, wood carving and embroidery, at the Choki Traditional Art School. 
 
Return to your hotel.

Overnight in Hotel Phuntsho Pelri, Thimphu

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and its governmental, religious and commercial centre.  It is nestled in the Wang Chuu river valley and is abundant in natural splendour, wildlife and culture.  Thimphu is a very unique city with an unusual mixture of modern developments alongside ancient traditions. With a population of about 100,000 people, it is perhaps the world’s only capital city without traffic lights. In fact, there are no traffic lights in the whole of the country. Here, policemen stand in decorated pavilions in the main intersections and direct traffic using hand gestures in a conscious effort to save their culture from modern influences. Every building is still decorated with Dzong-style features and Buddhism influences every part of daily life. There is a variety of cafes, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, and Thimphu is one of the few places in Bhutan to have ATM machines. Altitude: 2,320m.

Changangkha Lhakhang is a fortress-like temple and monastic school that is perched on a ridge above the city of Thimphu. The temple was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by the Tibetan Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo. The main statue of interest is of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion (disciple of Buddha), who is shown to have 11 heads. The temple courtyard has a spectacular view of the Thimphu Valley.

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Day 3 : Thimphu - Punakha

Say farewell to Thimphu on a winding elevation through oak, pine and rhododendron forests, and over the Dochu-La Pass. On clear days the views of the high Himalayan snowline are magnificent. Step out into the cool mountain air to see 108 memorial chortens. Descend through subtropical broadleaf woodland into the Punakha Valley and into a relatively balmy micro climate where rice cultivation thrives. After lunch in a local restaurant, wander through the valley’s rice paddies in search of the fertility temple. Chime Lhakhang was built by Drukpa Kunley, known as the Divine Madman due to his irreverence.

Punakha will be your base for the next two nights. 

Overnight in Damchen Resort, Punakha

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Dochula Pass is located on the way from Thimphu to Punakha. The pass is a popular location as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the 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 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens - the construction of these 108 chortens was commissioned by the eldest Queen Mother, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. The pass is also popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists because an important temple is located at the crest of Dochula pass. 

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Day 4 : Punakha

A whole day of exploring Punakha. What better way to start than by a gazing out over the Punakha Valley from the top of the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. Later in the day, pay respects to the Punakha Dzong, known as the ‘Palace of Great Happiness.’ and winter residence of the State Monastic Body. At the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, it is here that Bhutan’s monarchs are ceremonially crowned.

Enjoy the evening at leisure in your hotel.

Overnight in Damchen Resort, Punakha

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The Punakha valley has a pleasant climate with warm winters and hot summers. Owing to the favourable climatic conditions, rice grows very well in this region and is the main cash crop cultivated here. Altitude: 1,300m.

The majestic Punakha Dzong, known as the Palace of Great Happiness, used to serve as Bhutan's religious and administrative centre until the 1950s. The inside courtyards and religious statuary hint at a deep historical and spiritual tradition. It is quite large, 
measuring over 180m long by 70m wide and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. The dzong sits at the junction of the Pho chhu and Mo chhu rivers and was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a Tibetan Buddhist lama. Arguably the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, it was the second to be ever built in the country. Bhutan's most treasured possession, the Rangjung ('Self-Created') Kharsapani image of Chenresig is kept here, but is closed to the public.  

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Day 5 : Punakha - Phobjikha Valley - Gangtey

Leave Punakha after breakfast to climb up to the high Phobjika Valley. A conservation area, renowned for the rare and endangered black necked cranes that migrate here from Tibet in October before heading back home over the Himalayas in March. The timing of our tour means we will have a chance to see these majestic birds – inspiration for the annual festival at Gangtey Gonpa – while we take a gentle walk around the valley. Enduring symbol of longevity, Bhutan reveres this signature bird for its association with luck and prosperity.

End your day in and around the village of Gangtey, home to a magnificent seventeenth century monastery dominating the landscape. Legend has it that the cranes circle the gonpa three times upon arrival and departure, seeking its blessings for a safe journey.

Overnight in Hotel Dewachan, Gangtey

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

​Phobjikha valley is a glacial valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountains.The valley is a designated conservation area and plays host to a flock of endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate here from Tibet each winter. Phobjikha falls under the Wangduephodrang district and lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, the Nakay Chhu (blackwater) and the Gay Chhu (whitewater). Altitude: 2,900m. 

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Day 6 : Gangtey - Trongsa - Bumthang

Between Gangtey valley and the four valleys of Bumthang, traverse not one but two high mountain passes. But the climb is more than worth the view. Vegetation changes markedly beyond the Pele-La Pass, traditional divider between west and east. First stop is the Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong watchtower (and museum). Trongsa is significant due to its historic function as the administrative capital of the central and eastern regions of the kingdom.

Before arriving at our destination point in Bumthang, stop in the village of Zugney famous for the woven woollen cloth known as yathra.

Relax on arrival at your hotel.

Overnight in Rinchenling Lodge, Bumthang

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Trongsa is situated on a steep ridge  that drops off into the clouds on its south side. It  offers spectacular views of the deep valleys surrounding it. The various hotels, guesthouses and restaurants all offer stunning views from their balconies. Trongsa Dzong is easily visible from anywhere in town and is always an impressive sight.

Ta Dzong is located above the Trongsa Dzong, and a short, steep walk from the main Trongsa town. Ta Dzong, which means “watchtower”, was built in the 17th century and was built to protect Trongsa from any external threats. 

The Trongsa Dzong sits overlooking the Mangdechhu River. It was founded by Yingzin Ngagi Wangchuk, a descendant of Ngawang Chogyal and a revered follower of Kuenkhen Pema Karpo. In 1541, he meditated at the village of Yueli in Trongsa, a few kilometers away from the present Dzong. During the meditation, he saw a lit butter lamp below the  Goenkhang  ridge, which houses the guardian deities Palden Lhamo (Mahakali) and Yeshey Goenpo (Mahakali). Considering the place to be sacred, he built mediation quarters. Once during his meditation in the new quarter, the deity Palden Lhamo appeared and prophesied that this place would play an important role in spreading Buddhist teachings. After this incident, Yingzin Ngagi Wangchuk constructed a small temple and named it Mondrupley. Over the years, his disciples built many smaller meditation centers near the Mondrupley temple, which soon began to resemble a small village. The people of Yueli named this new village Trong-sar (new village).

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Day 7 : Bumthang

Today we explore three important sacred temples in this spiritual heartland of Bhutan: Jampa Lhakhang dating from the 7th century; Kurjey Lhakhang, which contains a bodily imprint of the 8th century Indian teacher, Guru Rinpoche; and finally, Tamshing monastery. Tamshing is the seat of the current incarnation of Pema Lingpa, regarded as the ‘patron saint’ of Bhutan. After three temples, it is time to unwind at the Bumthang Brewery.

End the evening in Bumthang.

Overnight in Rinchenling Lodge, Bumthang

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Located in central Bhutan, Bumthang is considered the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. This district is dotted with many temples and monasteries, among which are some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. This beautiful valley of buckwheat and apples has a mysterious history as an abode of gods and is one of the richest cultural places in the country.

The Tamshing Lhakhang monastery is the seat of Lama Sungtrul Rinpoche, the current incarnation of Pema Lingpa (1450–1521), who built it in 1501. He was a famous saint, master of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and the discoverer of spiritual treasures. It contains sacred religious scripts and paintings, among which are the portraits of Pema Lingpa himself. 

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Day 8 : Bumthang - Tang Valley - Bumthang

On the approach to the beautiful Tang Valley, pass the pilgrimage site of the Flaming Lake, where legend has it a cache of sacred texts hidden by Guru Rinpoche were recovered by Pema Lingpa some 800 years later.

From there proceed to the magnificent manor house of Ogyen Choling. It houses a museum, which gives an insight into the everyday life of the Bhutanese aristocracy and has an impressive family temple. Time- permitting, a final side trip to Pema Choling Nunnery.

Overnight in Rinchenling Lodge, Bumthang

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

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Day 9 : Bumthang - Mongar

Cross the dramatic Thrumsing-La Pass between Bumthang and your next destination, Mongar. Wend your way up through forests, cascading waterfalls, steep cliffs and constantly changing vegetation before descending into the town of Mongar. The journey today is spectacular and must be one of Bhutan’s most scenic drives.

Evening at leisure in the lemongrass capital of Mongar

Overnight in Trogon Villa, Mongar

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Mongar is eastern Bhutan's fastest developing district. It is known for growing the lemongrass plant, which is used in essential oil production. The Mongar Dzong is one of the newest dzongs in the country, yet is built using the same methods and traditions as the others. It is unusual because of its non-strategic location, two entrances and the fact that the monk and administrative bodies share the same courtyard.

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Day 10 : Mongar - Trashigang

Leave Mongar via its dzong. Although one of the more recently constructed dzongs, it is built in traditional style and combines both administrative and monastic functions. Mongar was historically an important place on the ancient trade routes and still serves as a gateway to Eastern Bhutan, linking the eastern districts with the rest of the country.

Continue towards Trashigang, stopping at the largest monastery in the East, Drametse Gompa. Drametse means the peak where there is no enemy and is held in great reverence by the Bhutanese in this part of the country.

Finish the day in the small town of Trashigang.

Overnight in Druk Doejung, Trashigang

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Trashigang ('Auspicious Mountain') in eastern Bhutan is a picturesque town with 2,000 inhabitants. It is located above a river and scattered on the steep hills of a wooded mountain. Today, it is the junction of the east-to-west highway and road connecting Samdrup Jongkhar to the Indian state of Assam. The town is also the site of the market place for the semi-nomadic people from Merak and Sakteng whose costumes are unique in Bhutan. Quite off-the-beaten track, Trashigang is also a good base for excursions to Trashiyangtse and other towns and villages in north east Bhutan. 

Drametse Lhakhang ('Peak Without Enemy') is one of the largest and most important monasteries in eastern Bhutan, deeply associated with the Peling tradition of Buddhism. It was founded by a highly accomplished nun named Choten Zangmo in the 16th century, who was the granddaughter of Terton Pema Lingpa (the famous religious master who discovered treasure in the Burning Lake). This monastery houses a full range of spiritual treasures and other sacred objects and is the source of spiritual inspiration to the people of Drametse and neighbouring communities. 

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Day 11 : Trashigang Tshechu Festival

Trashigang is a settlement of around 2,000 inhabitants. The dzong is in an imposing position, situated on a ridge overlooking the confluence of two rivers. It was given the name of Sky Dzong by retreating Tibetan invaders in the mid-17th century.

We spend the day attending the Trashigang tshechu, an annual festival which lasts three days. Attending one of these tsechu is one of the best ways to experience the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. It is one of the highlights of this tour and because it is in the remoter and less visited part of the country that we will experience the real Bhutan.

Overnight in Druk Doejung, Trashigang

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The Trashigang Tshechu festival features a variety of sacred masked dances and folk songs. The festival is attended by members of the Brokpas semi-nomadic community that live in the valleys of Merak and Sakteng. The ceremonial aspect of the festival is the reveal of the large tapestries (thongdrel) of Guru Tshengyed and the Neten Chudrug. 

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Day 12 : Yonphulla - Paro

After breakfast, leave Trashigang for Yonphula airport to catch your flight to Paro. On arrival, explore this charming town, with a population of some 12,000. It has its imposing dzong, many temples, an interesting museum and a thriving bazaar. There may also be a chance to witness Bhutan’s national sport of archery.

Evening at leisure in Paro. 

Overnight in Meri Phuensum Heritage, Paro

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Paro is the second largest town in Bhutan although small in size and population. Its main street is lined with buildings richly decorated in traditional architecture that house a scattering of shops and restaurants. Paro is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding attractions, such as Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). After Bumthang, the valley is amongst the most beautiful in Bhutan. Altitude: 2,280m.

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Day 13 : Paro

We leave arguably the best until the last full day of your tour. A challenging walk up to the spectacularly situated Takstang, or the Tiger’s Nest, an iconic monastery perched on a cliff 900 metres above the Paro Valley. Those who have the energy can walk the whole way, but others may like to rest half way up at the cafeteria. Ponies can be hired for part of the journey to rest those aching limbs.

After the descent, there may be time to visit the tiny but special Kyichu Lhakhang, before heading to the bazaar for souvenir shopping. Then enjoy your final evening in the magical land of the Thunder Dragon.

Overnight in Meri Phuensum Heritage, Paro

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

The Ta Dzong was originally built to be a watchtower, but it now houses the National Museum. Its extensive collection includes antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons, armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.

Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the Taktshang Monastery is perhaps the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries and is perched precariously on the side of a cliff, 900m above the Paro Valley. It is said that Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism and the Buddha of our time, came here on the back of a tigress to meditate, hence the name. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place and was even visited by the Tibetan Buddhist Lama, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, in 1646. All Bhutanese people visit this monastery at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building, but it has now been restored to its original splendour. 

The hike to the monastery is a 2-2.5 hour strenuous walk uphill. This can be broken down into three stages and a donkey can be used to ride up to two-thirds of the way. The first stage is trekking to the  rocky outcrop across a ravine from the monastery, which takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Lunch will be served here later today.  The second stage is walking from the cafeteria to the lookout opposite the monastery, which takes close to one hour. The third stage is climbing down 475 steps in the cliff face to the bottom of the ravine, crossing over a stream and waterfall and climbing up another 300 steps to the entrance of the monastery. You will spend up to an hour here and view the cave where Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal meditated. 

Cameras are not allowed inside the monastery. 

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Day 14 : Paro - Departure

At the appropriate hour, depart for the airport to catch your international flight.

Meal plan: Breakfast

Accommodation

Accommodation

All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.

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Hotel Phuntsho Pelri

Thimphu (2 nights)

Phuntsho Pelri, which translates to “place of great satisfaction,” lives up to its illustrious name by giving visitors an extraordinary experience, from the Bhutanese architecture to the traditionally hand-crafted furniture in every room. Your arrival is made pleasant and distinct by the Hotel.

Hotel Phuntsho Pelri offers multi-cuisine restaurant and bar, a well-equipped business center, free Wi-Fi, a coffee shop, a conference room, a saloon, and spa facilities are all available at this hotel Phuntsho Pelri in the center of Thimphu.

Visit hotel's site
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Damchen Resort

Punakha (2 nights)

Damchen is a 3-star resort located along the right bank of Khuruthang's Punatsangchu river.

Th resort comprises 33 rooms: nine Oval Deluxe rooms, six semi deluxe rooms and 18 standard rooms with balcony overlooking sweeping views of hills, villages, paddy fields and the mighty Punatshangchu river.

For that serene touch, the resort grounds come to life with lush green gardens, under a canopy ideal for sipping tea while drifting off on nature's harmonious flow.  

Visit hotel's site
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Hotel Dewachan

Gangtey (1 night)

Hotel Dewachan is located the edge of the stunning Black Mountains National Park is the Dewachen built in traditional style. Both the rooms (16 in total) and the cosy restaurant look out across the farm and Phobjikha valley.

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Rinchenling Lodge

Bumthang (3 nights)

Matching the beauty, solemnity and serenity of Bhutan’s mythical district Bumthang, Rinchenling Guest House is a one-stop resort. Five minute walk from one of the Kingdom’s most sacred sites, Jampa Lhakhang, Rincheling symbolizes the Bhutanese spirit in all aspects, from its architectural designs to the facilities offered.

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Trogon Villa

Mongar (1 night)

Its name is inspired by the rare Ward's trogon, a little bird from a big neighbourhood. The villa sits in the lap of nature, in a biodiverse region of forested foothills. The setting is half the appeal. The other half comprises a homely and inviting villa bedecked with natural timbers. Rooms are similarly built in natural wood, and create a sense of space and mindfulness. 

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Druk Doejung

Trashigang (2 nights)

Druk Doejung is set on the hills of Trashigang, providing guests with scenic views across the surrounding landscape. The hotel is fitted with modern comforts to allow for a relaxing stay. The spacious rooms have a contemporary decor and are fitted with modern amenities, including air-conditioning and wifi. The on-site restaurants serves local dishes, along with a variety of international cuisine options.

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Meri Phuensum Heritage

Paro (2 nights)

Meri Phuensum Heritage, a 3-star gem in serene Paro, offers a peaceful escape with its cozy simplicity and warmth. Authorized by the Tourism Council of Bhutan, the Meri Phuensum makes sure all guests receive the highest quality service and facilities. With the stylistic adherence to building in natural materials, rooms have an warm and cozy feel to them. In fact, guests will find treated timber throughout this hotel, creating a natural feel, so in keeping with this ecologically-minded kingdom of forests. Rooms enjoy generous facilitiies, while staff extend a true Bhutanese welcome. 

Visit hotel's site
Extensions

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Textile Traditions of Bhutan

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Reviews

I traveled solo with Travel The Unknown to Bhutan, the trip was very well planned and managed. Accommodation was top class for the region and the local guide and driver made me feel at home at all stages. I enjoyed being introduced to the local people and trying to understand their culture.

Tom Gallery , Tailormade Bhutan

Travel the Unknown and its in-country counterparts in both India and Bhutan were outstanding. The guides were experts on our destinations, friendly and personable, and tried their best to meet all our requests not on the itinerary. Received several calls throughout the trip asking about the tours and if we needed anything. Can't ask for more than that. All hotels and services were excellent I will definitely be traveling with Travel the Unknown again..

Richard Reilly (USA) , Classic Bhutan & Assam Cruise, India & Bhutan

From first to last, Travel the Unknown really excelled themselves. Everything connected with the trip went smoothly from the advice given by the sales department to the support provided by the local staff once in Bhutan. The itinerary which covered the little visited eastern part of the country as well as the better known west, was well planned and included a good mix of the scenic and the cultural. As repeat business is performance related, I will definitely be booking further trips with them!

Marissa Hart , Best of Bhutan

Our trip was the perfect combination of an amazing itinerary, friendly and knowledgeable local guide/driver, lovely accommodation, good food and small group travel which enhanced the travel experience. We were a small group of five and overall it surpassed my expectations. I felt the trip was organised extremely well and I personally enjoyed the whole experience from start to finish and I have also made some very nice friends. I would not hesitate to book with Travel the Unknown again.

Diane , Essential Bhutan & Black Necked Crane Festival
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