The Chronicle
The Hidden Kingdom
13 days · 12 nights
A quiet immersion into the sacred valleys and ancient rhythms of the Himalayan highlands.
Duration
13 days · 12 nights
Season
March–June and September–December
Pace
Moderate
Party
2–6 guests
Shaped for
Cultured travelers seeking deep spiritual resonance, luxury comfort, and light-to-moderate mountain activity.
This thirteen-day passage is crafted for the discerning traveler seeking a profound connection with Bhutan’s geography and culture. From the spiritual heart of the central valleys to the dramatic crags of the west, the journey unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing space for silence and discovery. You will traverse ancestral paths, encounter the vibrant life of monasteries, and find sanctuary in some of the most refined lodges in the world.
Each day offers a nuanced exploration of the Himalayan kingdom. Your route takes you from the sacred corridors of Bumthang to the serene, crane-frequented meadows of Phobjikha, and onwards to the lush riverbanks of Punakha and the high mountain passes of Paro. By balancing active, invigorating hikes with moments of quiet reflection and evening rituals, we ensure that every experience is savored fully.
Accompanied by a private guide and driver, you are granted the freedom to engage with the landscape on your own terms. Whether it is a gentle walk through rice terraces or a dedicated ascent to a mountain hermitage, your journey is supported by the seamless, intuitive service that defines our approach to travel in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Moments
- —Walking segments of the ancient Trans Bhutan Trail
- —Discovering cliff-side hermitages in the remote Tang valley
- —Observing the evening rituals of monks in ancient Shedra
- —Watching for black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha valley
- —A private, unhurried ascent to the Tiger’s Nest monastery
- —Sunset riverside refreshments in the Punakha valley
Day 01
Day 1 · Paro, arriving softly
Begin your journey with a gentle stroll along the Trans Bhutan Trail, winding past Zuri Dzong. Conclude the afternoon with a visit to the National Museum and the architectural splendor of Rinpung Dzong.
Day 02
Day 2 · Bumthang, flying east
Board a morning flight across the central peaks to the sacred Bumthang valley. Settle into your lodge before trying your hand at traditional archery or darts.
Day 03
Day 3 · Bumthang, the Bushman’s Trail
Ascend to hilltop lookouts offering panoramic views of the valley. Visit the Zangdopelri temple and the Pema Choling nunnery, with the option to continue to the holy waters of Mebartsho.
Day 04
Day 4 · Bumthang, cliff-side legends
Venture into the Tang valley for a hike to the legendary Kunzangdra monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face. Spend a quiet afternoon at leisure.
Day 05
Day 5 · Phobjikha, mountain meadows
Traverse forest and meadow paths on the Longtey Lomey hike. Pass the Kumbu hermitage before arriving on foot at the doors of your lodge.
Day 06
Day 6 · Phobjikha, the crane country
Walk the Gangtey Nature Trail, keeping an eye out for the rare black-necked cranes during season. Engage with the spiritual life of the valley at the Gangtey Goenpa and the local Shedra.
Day 07
Day 7 · Punakha, the Lawala pass
Cross the Lawala Pass adorned with thousands of prayer flags before descending into the warmer climate of Punakha. End the day with sunset drinks by the river.
Day 08
Day 8 · Punakha, the river valley
Walk through riverside paths and rice terraces to reach the Khamsum Chorten and the grand Punakha Dzong. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the water.
Day 09
Day 9 · Thimphu, ridge walks
Take a hike along the Dochula ridge for commanding views of the high Himalayas. Enjoy a forest picnic before continuing the journey to Thimphu.
Day 10
Day 10 · Paro, the golden gaze
Walk to the Buddha Dordenma statue for a vantage point over the Thimphu valley. Drive back to Paro for a quiet afternoon of archery or forest strolls.
Day 11
Day 11 · Paro, the Tiger’s Nest
Undertake the iconic climb to Taktsang monastery, with time for silent meditation. Celebrate with a barbecue lunch in a private log cabin and a restorative spa afternoon.
Day 12
Day 12 · Paro, celestial heights
Drive to the Chele La pass for thin, crisp air and mountain views. Hike to the Kila nunnery before spending a final evening on the lodge terrace.
Day 13
Day 13 · Paro, departure
Enjoy a final Bhutanese breakfast and optional yoga session. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight home.
The Logistics, quietly
A private enquiry
Begin The Hidden Kingdom
Tell us who you are and we will shape this world around you. Eight quiet questions — no forms.