Embark on an extraordinary journey to mystical Bhutan with a group of like-minded travelers! Limited to 18 participants, this 9-day/8-night adventure is led by your friendly and resourceful guide, Dorji, and offers a rare glimpse into the remote, rustic charms of eastern Bhutan. Fall is the perfect time to visit, with clear skies and mild temperatures enhancing the breathtaking mountain landscapes.

The Land of the Thunder Dragon captivates with its pristine beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). On this intimate tour, we’ll explore the true meaning of GNH as we visit ancient monasteries, dramatic dzongs (fortresses), and vibrant villages, and several Kcymaerxthaere sites scattered across the country. Kcymaerxthaere is a global art project that blends storytelling with real-world locations, creating a parallel universe that overlays our own. As we travel through Bhutan, you’ll discover these fascinating sites, each tied to imaginative narratives, offering a truly unique way to engage with the landscape

This tour goes beyond sightseeing, encouraging personal reflection and offering a fresh perspective on life. Through immersive encounters with spirituality, nature, art, and the everyday joys of Bhutanese culture, participants will be transformed. Dorji, as our guide and co-creator, ensures the journey is flexible, with options tailored to different energy levels, allowing guests to choose a pace that suits them.

Designed with authenticity in mind, this tour includes a special visit to Phongmey, Dorji’s hometown, where we’ll experience rural life with rustic accommodations and facilities. Whether you’re seeking adventure, connection, or contemplation, this Tiny World Tour promises a truly life-changing experience.

DRAFT ITINERARY

Day 1: Monday, 26 October 2026: Welcome to Bhutan!

Welcome to Bhutan! འབྲུག་ལུ་ཕེབས་བསུ་ཞུ།

Your experience begins as you arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by Dorji after clearing customs and immigration.

Day 2: Tuesday, 27 October 2026: Fly to Eastern Bhutan

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Paro Airport for your flight to Yonphula, a gateway to the untouched landscapes of Eastern Bhutan. As the plane descends, you'll catch breathtaking views of rugged mountains and verdant valleys that feel worlds away from the well-traveled paths.

Upon arrival, settle into the serene Lingkhar Lodge, where a fresh, locally-inspired lunch awaits. In the afternoon, take a leisurely nature walk through the peaceful surroundings, a perfect introduction to the natural beauty and tranquility of this region. Return to the lodge for a warm dinner and an evening to relax in this remote corner of Bhutan.

Day 3: Wednesday, 28 October 2026: Drive to Merak & Phongmey

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to the highland village of Merak, home to the semi-nomadic Brokpa people. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of local villagers, where you’ll have the chance to try on the region’s distinctive traditional clothing, offering a glimpse into their unique culture.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the picturesque village, with its sweeping landscapes and the timeless pace of rural life. In the afternoon, continue your journey with a drive to Phongmey, Dorji’s home town, set against the backdrop of Eastern Bhutan’s rugged beauty.

End the day with a rustic farmhouse dinner in Phongmey, savoring local flavors and a cozy, authentic atmosphere. For the night, settle into a nearby early childhood development center, repurposed for your comfortable and unique overnight stay.

Day 4: Thursday, 29 October 2026: Phongmey->Trashigang

Start your day with a rustic farmhouse breakfast, savoring the simple yet hearty flavors of local cuisine. Afterward, visit the Phongmey school, where you’ll get a glimpse of rural education in Bhutan and the strong sense of community that shapes daily life here.

Following your visit, set off on a scenic drive to Trashigang, a historic town nestled in the eastern highlands. Upon arrival, explore the dramatic Trashigang Dzong, a majestic fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the confluence of two rivers. This architectural marvel has stood for centuries, guarding Bhutan’s eastern borders and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Later in the day, check in at the now-familiar Lingkhar Lodge, where a delicious dinner and comfortable overnight stay await, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Day 5: Friday, 30 October 2026: Yonphula –> Paro

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before checking out and taking a scenic flight from Yonphula back to Paro, where the familiar yet peaceful surroundings of Happiness Farm await.

Upon arrival, check in to Happiness Farm, your home for the next leg of your journey. Immerse yourself in an authentic farm experience with a visit to the farmhouse, and choose from a range of optional activities to tailor the day to your interests. Unwind with a traditional herbal bath, learn the secrets of Bhutanese cuisine in a hands-on cooking class, or sit in on an insightful talk on farming by Dorji, the farm’s dedicated steward.

In the evening, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner, followed by a fireside conversation under the stars. For a memorable close to the day, you can opt to witness cultural performances by local villagers, a perfect way to experience the heart of Bhutanese traditions.

Day 6: Saturday, 31 October 2026: Paro to the Happiness Farm

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for an invigorating hike through the stunning landscapes around the Happiness Farm. Along the way, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by Bhutan’s natural beauty.

After the hike, return to Happiness Farm for a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation. Take in the breathtaking views and explore the unique Kcymaerxthaere art installation, a captivating blend of storytelling and local landscapes.

As evening falls, savor a delicious farm-to-table dinner at Happiness Farm, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures in the serene Bhutanese countryside.

Day 7: Sunday, 1 November 2026: Thimpu

Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast at Happiness Farm before setting off on a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu (about 1 hour). Upon arrival, delve into Thimphu’s unique blend of tradition and modernity with a day of sightseeing.

Visit the towering Giant Buddha, offering panoramic views of the city, followed by an insightful visit to the Bhutan Textile Museum at the Bhutan Royal Textile Academy, showcasing the nation’s rich textile heritage. After lunch in town, explore the Bhutan Central Post Office and Museum, where you can view Bhutan’s famous stamps and even send a personalized postcard.

Spend some time browsing Thimphu’s markets and shops, where you can find local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take home.

As the day winds down, enjoy the peaceful drive back to Happiness Farm, where a farm-fresh dinner awaits, rounding out a day filled with cultural exploration.

Day 8: Monday, 2 November 2026: Excursion to Tiger’s Nest

Start your day with an early breakfast at Happiness Farm before checking out and driving to the base of Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (about 1 hour).

Spend the morning hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most iconic and sacred site. The hike, which takes about 4-5 hours round trip, includes a stop for lunch along the way. For those seeking a shorter experience, an abbreviated hike or horseback ride to the midway lunch spot is an option. Perched dramatically on cliffs 2,000 feet above the Paro Valley, Tiger’s Nest has been a place of pilgrimage and refuge for over 1,200 years.

Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to this very spot on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave behind the present-day monastery. With a special permit, you'll be able to enter the monastery (though photography inside the shrines is prohibited), allowing you to explore the sacred spaces where saints once meditated—perfect for your own moments of quiet contemplation.

After your excursion, you have the option to enjoy some shopping in Paro before heading back to Happiness Farm for dinner and a restful overnight stay.

Day 9: Tuesday, 3 November 2026: Depart Bhutan!

Enjoy a final breakfast at Happiness Farm before checking out. Afterward, you'll be transferred to Paro International Airport for your departure flight.

As you bid farewell to Bhutan, take with you memories of its serene landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. End of tour and our services. Safe travels!

video caption (above): Bhutanese Dancers performing at the spring Bhutan Rhododendron Festival in the Royal Botanical Park at Lampelri, Bhutan.

Tour Highlights

This small group tour will especially be for you if you enjoy the following:

• Exploring unforgettable historic architecture, including Trashigang Monastery, ancient fortresses, and sacred sites

• Marveling at spectacular mountain views and breathtaking landscapes perfect for photography

• Engaging in authentic cultural encounters with local communities, participating in traditional Bhutanese rituals

• Savoring farm-to-table meals made from locally sourced ingredients

• Immersing yourself in Bhutan’s Buddhist culture and the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH)

• Capturing stunning photos of Bhutan’s pristine landscapes, remote villages, and iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery

What’s Included

• Expert-guided 9-day/8-night tour through Eastern Bhutan

• Accommodations at carefully selected lodges and hotels

• Daily breakfast, plus additional meals as specified in the itinerary

• Private transportation within Bhutan, including domestic travel between destinations

• Entrance fees to all cultural and historical sites, including Trashigang Monastery and Tiger’s Nest Monastery

• Guided village and monastery tours with opportunities for photography

• Personalized service from knowledgeable local guides and your tour leader

• Assistance with checking international flight options

• Advice on optional travel insurance (CFAR recommended)

• Guidance on extending your stay with additional hotel nights or further travel

What’s Not Included

• International airfare to and from Bhutan

• Travel insurance (especially recommended for anyone with specific concerns…please inquire for advice)

• Meals not specified in the itinerary

• Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, snacks, etc.)

• Optional activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary

• Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) outside of included meals

• Costs for additional hotel nights or extended stays before or after the tour

Salient Tour Details:

• Tour Cost: $5,000 per person, double occupancy

• Estimated Single occupancy charge: $380 (only for single travelers requiring their own private room if available…please inquire if you are a single traveler seeking a roommate to avoid this charge)

• Minimum Participants: 8

• Maximum Participants: 18 (This ensures an intimate experience for all travelers)

• Tour Go/No-Go Decision Date (when it is determined if there are enough refundable deposit-paying registrants to meet the minimum): 15 July 2025

• If our minimum number is not met by our tour go/no go decision date, the tour will be cancelled and full refunds issued, or those still wishing to proceed may have the option for a modified itinerary with increased costs possible.

• Payment in full due date: 15 July 2025

• This trip begins and ends in Paro served only by Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines)

Physical Activity and Expectations:

• This is a moderately active tour with average walking 2-4 miles per day in both urban and rural settings (and possibly even more if you enjoy walking).

• You’ll need to be able to climb up and down multiple flights of stairs (indoors and out)

• Occasional sitting on the floor (e.g. cross legged or legs stretched) and/or getting up and down from the floor.

• You’ll encounter uneven cobblestone streets, sidewalks, and trails.

Please Note:

• This itinerary is a sample and is subject to change. The final schedule will be determined approximately 30 days prior to departure to allow for the inclusion of special opportunities which may arise.  In the event that a requested visit is not available, a similar visit will be substituted.  A finalized itinerary and Travelers’ Notes document will be sent to all participants about two weeks prior to tour departure.

• An optional trip insurance policy such as a “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) policy may reimburse you for unforeseen cancellations or itinerary changes.

• We do our best to accommodate allergies and food preference. Please inform us of any dietary needs at the time of booking.

• We also offer bespoke custom tours for groups. Contact us for more information.

• Dorji will obtain your Bhutan tourist visa and book your flights to and from Paro on Druk Airlines, the Royal Bhutan airlines. Opportunities also exist for trip extensions and/or stopovers in various global hubs (advice provided upon request, with costs according to the customized plan). This tour can also easily be combined with a pre-tour or post-tour visit to Eastern Bhutan and/or nearby Nepal (please inquire).

Reserve Your Space Now!

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(this page last updated on 2024_10_22)