
Hidden Valley- 11 Days
Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s timeless culture, sacred traditions, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Discover ancient landmarks, vibrant customs, and memorable encounters with its deep-rooted Buddhist heritage.
Bhutan
11 Days
Easy
3,400 m/11,155 ft
Jan-Jun, Sep-Dec
Hotel
Included
Paro
Trip Highlights
- Explore the peaceful capital city of Thimphu, nestled in the Himalayas
- Visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong, an iconic fortress monastery
- Discover Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan’s largest and most significant fortress
- Hike to the sacred Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside
- Enjoy a spiritually enriching walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility
- Browse traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, ideal for unique souvenirs
- Visit the Swiss Farm in Bumthang for a taste of local flavors and culture
- Admire the beautiful architecture of Punakha Dzong, the Palace of Great Happiness
- Explore the historic ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, built to mark Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders
//php the_title(); ?> Trip Overview
The 11-day Hidden Valley Tour offers a captivating cultural journey into Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”. From the serene Paro Valley to the capital Thimphu and onward to Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang, and the peaceful Phobjikha Valley, this experience reveals Bhutan’s deep-rooted traditions and pristine landscapes. Each destination brings you closer to the country’s spiritual core, where time moves slowly and customs remain untouched.
You’ll explore ancient monasteries, hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest, and admire iconic landmarks like Punakha Dzong and Trongsa Dzong. Visits to sacred sites such as Chimi Lhakhang and interactions with local artisans in Bumthang provide a closer look at Bhutan’s living culture, from intricate wood carvings to traditional weaving and rural farming practices.
Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery and immersed in a way of life shaped by Buddhist values, this tour invites you to slow down and connect. Whether it’s sharing stories with locals or walking through misty valleys, the Hidden Valley Tour offers an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most unique and unspoiled destinations.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival at Paro Airport (2,250 m / 7,382 ft)
- Day 02: Full-day sightseeing around and in Paro
- Day 03: Drive to Thimphu (2,330 m / 7,644 ft) from Paro: 1 hr drive. Sightseeing en route
- Day 04: Drive to Punakha (1,200 m / 3,937 ft) from Thimphu: 2 hrs drive. Sightseeing on the way
- Day 05: Drive to Trongsa (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) from Punakha: 4 hrs drive
- Day 06: Drive to Bumthang (2,700 m / 8,858 ft) from Trongsa: 2 hrs drive
- Day 07: Sightseeing in and around Bumthang (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
- Day 08: Drive to Gangtey / Phobjikha (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) from Bumthang: 4-5 hrs drive
- Day 09: Drive to Paro (2,250 m / 7,382 ft) from Phobjikha: 5 hrs drive
- Day 10: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery / Tiger’s Nest (3,120 m / 10,232 ft): 20 min drive + 5-6 hrs hike
- Day 11: Transfer to the international airport for final departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Paro Airport (2,250 m / 7,382 ft)
You’ll arrive at Paro International Airport, Bhutan’s only international gateway, with direct flights from Kathmandu, Bangkok, New Delhi, and Dhaka. Flying Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu is ideal for smooth logistics and allows us to welcome you personally with thoughtful travel gifts like a duffle bag. As you fly over the Himalayas, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest before landing in the fertile Paro Valley, known for its golden rice fields and apple orchards. After arrival, our representative will greet you with a traditional silk khada and transfer you to your hotel to rest.
Max Altitude :
Paro (2,250 m / 7,382 ft)
Meals :
Lunch and Dinner
Overnight :
3-star hotel
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 02: Full-day sightseeing around and in Paro
After breakfast, explore Paro’s cultural treasures starting with Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum, showcasing ancient relics and traditional art. Then visit the impressive Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress-monastery, followed by a stroll across the 16th-century cantilever bridge offering panoramic views. Next is Drukgyel Dzong, built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders, where on clear days, you can see the sacred Mount Jumolhari. End the day at a traditional farmhouse to experience authentic rural Bhutanese life and hospitality.
Max Altitude :
Paro (2,250 m / 7,382 ft)
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight :
Paro
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 03: Drive to Thimphu (2,330 m / 7,644 ft) from Paro: 1 hr drive. Sightseeing en route
Start with a scenic one-hour drive to Thimphu, the capital nestled in the Himalayas. Discover its rich culture with visits to the National Library, home to ancient Buddhist scriptures, and the Institute for Zorig Chusum where young artists learn Bhutan’s traditional crafts. Explore the Textile and Folk Heritage Museums for a glimpse into Bhutanese daily life and traditions. Wrap up the day with a stroll through the bustling Thimphu Bazaar, perfect for shopping local crafts and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Max Altitude :
Thimphu (2,330 m / 7,644 ft)
Trip Duration :
1 hr drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight :
Thimpu
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 04: Drive to Punakha (1,200 m / 3,937 ft) from Thimphu: 2 hrs drive. Sightseeing on the way
Leave Thimphu for a two-hour scenic drive to Punakha, passing through lush forests. At Dochula Pass (3,050 m), enjoy sweeping views of the Himalayan peaks on a clear day. Along the way, spot rhododendrons and hear rare Himalayan birds. Visit Lobesa village and hike through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous “Temple of Fertility.” Finish the day at Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress set where two rivers meet, reflecting Bhutan’s spiritual and historical legacy.
Max Altitude :
Dochula Pass (3,050 m / 10,007 ft)
Trip Duration :
2 hr drive
Meals :
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight :
Punakha
Accomodation :
Hotel
Day 05: Drive to Trongsa (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) from Punakha: 4 hrs drive
Max Altitude :
Pele La Pass (3,300 m / 10,826 ft)
Trip Duration :
4 hr drive
Day 06: Drive to Bumthang (2,700 m / 8,858 ft) from Trongsa: 2 hrs drive
Day 07: Sightseeing in and around Bumthang (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
Day 08: Drive to Gangtey / Phobjikha (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) from Bumthang: 4-5 hrs drive
Day 09: Drive to Paro (2,250 m / 7,382 ft) from Phobjikha: 5 hrs drive
Day 10: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery / Tiger’s Nest (3,120 m / 10,232 ft): 20 min drive + 5-6 hrs hike
Day 11: Transfer to the international airport for final departure
Gallery
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Accommodation
- 10 nights in a standard government-approved 3-star hotel on a twin-sharing basis throughout the tour
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea, snacks during the tour
- Drinking water throughout the tour
Transportation
- Pick-up and drop-off at the airport and hotel using a private tourist vehicle (car, van, or minibus depending on group size)
- Private transportation and a designated driver within Bhutan with a dedicated driver in luggage vans, or light trucks
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, experienced, English-speaking Bhutanese guide throughout the trip
- Additional or assistant guides are provided for groups over 11 or when special support is needed, such as for senior travelers
- Guided city tour in Paro by private tourist vehicle
- Required local staff and porters to carry luggage and camping gear during the tour
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medical care for all support staff
Permits & Entry Fees
- All entrance fees for monuments, museums, and cultural sites listed in the itinerary
- All route access and monument entry permits and fees
- All required Bhutan visa fees included
Extras & Souvenirs
- Map, duffle/kit bag, and a trip completion certificate
Administrative
- Visa processing assistance for Bhutan
- 35% government royalty (part of the minimum daily package of US$200) that supports Bhutan’s free education and healthcare system
- All government taxes, official expenses, and standard tourism service charges
What is Excluded
- International flights and airport departure taxes
- Travel insurance, including coverage for emergency evacuation
- Tips for tour staff, porters, hotel staff, restaurant service, and drivers
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and other incidental costs
- Any expenses not specifically mentioned in the “Price Includes” section
Trip Departure
We book both solo and group trips to make your holiday a lifetime memory with people from all over the world. Once your trip is confirmed, we guarantee all group departure dates, even if only one person has signed up for the tour. Please note that before final sign-up, we always confirm the current number of members in your group.
Difficulty Level
Hidden Valley- 11 Days is quite easy and perfect for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. The route stays at lower altitudes, and the pace is gentle, allowing you to take in the scenery without feeling rushed. It’s a relaxed trip that requires little physical effort, making it an enjoyable and comfortable experience for everyone.
Dates & Prices
We don’t have set departure dates for this trip. It can be organized based on your request. You can choose a private or tailor-made journey that suits you, your family, and friends. We offer discounts based on the group size, the larger your group, the greater the discount. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred departure date.
Meals
Most hotels in Bhutan serve a mix of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, with pork, chicken, beef, and fish commonly available with fresh, seasonal options. During the tour, you’ll get three meals a day with breakfast, a hot picnic lunch, and dinner at the campsite with tea and snacks. Our experienced tour cooks prepare hearty meals at altitude, and special dietary needs can be accommodated if informed in advance.
Lodging
Hotels in Bhutan are government-rated as A, B, or C categories, roughly equal to 3- to 4-star standards. In Paro and Thimphu, we typically use A-grade hotels like Tashi Namgay Resort and Namgay Heritage, depending on availability. During the tour, accommodation will be in tents. All stays are based on twin-sharing, with a single supplement available on request for USD 378.
Weather Information
The weather really depends on the time of year you visit. In winter (December to February), it’s quite chilly at night and much warmer during the day, with temperatures ranging from around 4°C at night to about 22°C. From March to May, the conditions are ideal, with daytime temperatures averaging 25°C. After the monsoon, from September to December, the weather cools off again, making it a great time to travel with an average temperature of about 20°C. Throughout your trip, all the vehicles and hotels will have air conditioning to ensure you’re comfortable.
Packing List
For this tour, you only need comfortable clothing as there are no special equipment requirements. However, the following list provides an idea of the personal items you may want to bring, which are optional and depend on your preferences. The key factor when selecting your gear and backpack is the time of year you are traveling.
The vehicle will carry all heavy items and equipment, but personal items like money, water bottle, camera, sunscreen, and toilet paper should be kept with you in your daypack.
If you’re traveling to Bhutan from Kathmandu, we will provide complimentary water and a windproof duffel bag, which you can use during the tour for shopping. The duffel bag is yours to keep.
You can rent these equipment as well.
General
- Duffel bag, rucksack, or suitcase
- Daypack for personal items
- Warm Wool or Synthetic Hat
- Goggles or sunglasses for sun protection, dust, and wind
- Neck warmer (optional, recommended for cold season travel- January, February, and December)
Upper Body
- Warm wool or synthetic hat to cover ears (required for cold seasons: January, February, and December)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable) shell jacket (recommended for rainy season- June to September)
- 2 T-shirts
Torso
- 2 pairs of lightweight long underwear/thermals (for winter travel- January, February, and December)
Lower Body
- 1 pair of cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis)
- 1 pair of shorts
Hands
- 1 pair of warm gloves (required for cold seasons: January, February, and December)
Feet
- 2 pairs of liner socks (preferably synthetic or Capilene)
- 1 pair of light camping shoes or sneakers
- 1 pair of sandals (optional)
First Aid Kits and Medications
Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended.
- Extra Strength Excedrin- for altitude-related headaches
- Ibuprofen- for general aches and pains
- Imodium or Pepto Bismol capsules- for upset stomach/diarrhea
- Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125 mg or 250 mg- for altitude sickness (consult with us before using this medication)
- Small personal first aid kit with blister treatments like moleskine, band-aids, waterproof tape, and anti-infection ointments
Other Essentials
- Valid passport and 4 extra passport photos
- Airline ticket (leave a copy at the Kathmandu office in case of changes)
- Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents and cash
- Lip balm (SPF 20+, bring 2 sticks)
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+, check expiration)
- Pocket knife or Swiss Army-style multitool
- Water purification tablets or Polar Pure crystals
- Toiletry kit (toilet paper in plastic bag, hand wipes, sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.)
- 2 bandanas
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent tour essentials at a reasonable price once you’re in Kathmandu.
Optional
- 1 pair adjustable trekking poles (Highly recommended for knee/ankle support)
- Favorite snack foods (max 2 lbs)
- Paperback books, playing cards, mp3 player (Keep items lightweight)
- Binoculars (Optional)
- Lightweight point-and-shoot or DSLR camera (Keep batteries warm in cold conditions)
- Pee bottle or pee funnel (Useful at high altitudes or cold nights)
- Small Thermos
Note: This list is a general guideline. You may adjust it based on your preferences. Many items are available in stores in Kathmandu.
Cultural Tip
Avoid wearing tight or form-fitting clothes like Lycra as outerwear, especially in rural areas. If you use them as base layers, bring something looser to wear over them to respect local customs.
Documents and Logistics
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date)
- Bhutan visa clearance letter (arranged by us; required for boarding your flight to Bhutan excluding citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives)
- 4 passport-sized photos (for permits or emergencies)
- Travel insurance (mandatory; must include emergency medical evacuation and trip cancellation)
- Flight tickets and printed itinerary (keep physical copies for airport check-in and immigration)
- Copy of travel permit and entry documents (provided on arrival; carry with you during the tour)
- Cash and Traveller’s Cheques (Keep the numbers and proof of purchase separately)
Dates of Trip
Group Discount Prices
Traveler Reviews
