The diverse ecosystem in Bhutan in its undisturbed and pristine form is absolutely precious. It is a must visit place for any nature lover. You can enjoy the raw and rugged natural environment during the Bhutan Nature tours.
Bhutan is a small county, yet offers an incredible array of opportunities to enjoy nature. It is not only home to rare flora and fauna, but it also has several secluded monasteries and hot springs.
Bhutan is a magical place and you can feel it during your Bhutan nature tour.
You can help us design an itinerary for you or choose a popular package for your Bhutan Nature Tours.
Popular Packages for Bhutan Nature Tours
8 Days Bhutan Tour
This weeklong tour allows you to explore the beautiful regions in and around Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
You will hike to Taktsang Monastery while enjoying the beautiful view of the valley and scenery.
Further, you will discover ancient dzongs and monasteries.
It also includes a visit to one of the last wintering grounds of the endangered and graceful black-necked cranes.
Itinerary in Detail
Day 01: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro (2280m)
During your flight, you can enjoy aerial views of some of the highest mountains in the world. Some of the pilots on this air route do announce when you fly above Mt. Everest.
Once in Paro, you will meet your guide and driver.
At the hotel, you will get a pre-trip briefing. Depending on your time of arrival, you will either rest at the hotel or take a walk around Paro.
Overning in Paro.
Day 02: Exploration around Paro Valley
You will spend the day in and around Paro Valley. On this day, you will visit the fortress of Drukyel Dzong, Ta-Dzong, Rinphung Dzong and the National Museum of Bhutan. On clear days, you can also see Mt Chomolhari (7320m) towering over the dzong from the fortress. Also, the place offers the best aerial views of the Paro valley and the rice fields.
Day03: Transfer to Thimphu
Once in the capital of Bhutan- Thimphu, you will explore the following places:
- Indigenous hospital: Here traditional healing arts are still practiced to this day.
- The Art & Craft school: This school teaches 13 traditional skills in arts and crafts of Bhutan
- The National Library
- The Royal Goldsmith Workshop
- The Handicraft Emporium: you can view Bhutan’s famous weaving, woodcarvings, and paintings
- Memorial Chorten: It is a stone Buddhist monument. Dedicated to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the founder of modern-day Bhutan
- The 15th-century Changangkha Monastery
- Drupthob Nunnery
- The local market
Day04: Cross Dochu La, Punakha Dzong
We will drive for about 3 hours to Wangduephodrang (locally known as “Wangdi”) via Punakha. Today you feel the change in climatic zones ie from mountainous climate to tropical climate.
On the way, you will cross Dochu La Pass at 3150m. From here, you get views of the eastern Himalaya. You can see the highest mountain in Bhutan, Mt Gangar Punsum (7520m).
You can enjoy the beautiful forests of rhododendron and magnolia during the drive.
Once here, you will visit the Punakha Dzong. It once served as the old capital of Bhutan. Built in 1637, this remarkable fortress lies between two rivers.
Overnight Wangdi Kyichu Resort.
Day05: Excursion from Wangduephodrang to Gangtey Gompa (4hrs)
Today, you will explore the Gangtey Gompa valley (2800m). Gangtey Gompa is a Buddhist complex. It includes monks’ quarters, a meditation center, schools, and a small hotel. The monastery overlooks the Phobjikha Valley, a designated conservation area.
This beautiful valley is home to the rare Black Necked Cranes. These birds migrate from the Tibetan plateau to escape the harsh winter. About 200 to 300 of these cranes live in this valley for 4-5 months.
During the 4-5 months that the cranes are here, the villagers are not allowed to make loud noises. Nor are they allowed to fish in the river that runs into the valley.
You will explore this magnificent glacier-carved valley for the day.
Overnight at Wangdi.
Day06: Return to Paro (5/6 hrs)
This day we will drive you back to Paro.
Overnight in Paro.
Day07: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery
The day begins early with a drive to the foot of the Taktsang Monastery. You will then hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
On the trail, you can appreciate the monasteries breathtaking location on a cliff edge about 800m above the valley floor. You will hike through a beautiful forest. You also get magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight in Paro.
Day08: Fly back from Paro to Kathmandu
The return journey from Paro to Kathmandu is as fabulous as the first one.
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a short trek. It is also the only trek that offers you mesmerizing views of the entire Bhutanese Himalayan range. You get fabulous views throughout the trek.
On this trek, you witness beautiful high altitude mountain lakes. You can choose any one of the two routes. Both routes offer their unique flavor. The second route does involve a lot of climbing. Thus, it is quite challenging.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport & transfer to hotel
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 03: Arrival at Paro
Day 04: Paro Sightseeing and drive to Thimphu
Day 05: Drive Thimphu to Khoma ( 2850m) and trek to Geynikha 2950m
Day 06: Trek Geynikha – Gur 3,290m/7km/5 hrs
Day 07: Trek Gur – Labatamba 4300m/12 km/6hrs.
Day 08: Trek Labatamba – Panka 4000m/8 km/6-7 hrs.
Day 09: Trek Panka – Talakha 3083m/8 km/4-5 hrs
Day 10: Thimphu Sightseeing and drive to Paro
Day 11: Fly out to Kathmandu or any other destination
Gasa Tsachu (Hot Springs) Trek
This trek is one the easier and shorter in Bhutan. This trail lies at a low altitude and has good trail parallel to and above the Mo Chhu (mother river). You can take a relaxing dip at the Tsachu while enjoying grand views.
The Bhutanese believe that the hot springs located here have medicinal values. Hence, many visits to get relief from body aches.
On this trek, you will also pass through the Jigme Dorji National Park. There is also a fenced meadow and camp reserved for nature clubs and school groups.
Itinerary at a glance
Day 01: Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport & transfer to hotel
Day02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day03: Airport transfer and fly to Paro
Day04: Drive Paro to Thimphu 2320m/54 km / 1 hr
Day05: Drive Thimphu to Punakha 1250m/76 km/ 3 hrs
Day06: Drive to Damji (2250 m) & trek to Gasa Tsachu (Hot Springs) 2220 m/14 km/5 hrs
Day07: Rest day in Gasa Tsachu
Day08: Trek back Gasa Tsachu to Damji & drive to Punakha
Day09: Drive Punakha to Paro 2250m / 130km/4 hrs
Day10: Departure to Kathmandu
Why Go on Bhutan Nature Tours?
To Explora the Natural Environment
Bhutan has one of the richest and most diverse natural environment in the Himalayas. It is one of the world’s 10 most important biodiversity hotspots. Most of it is in its undisturbed and pristine form till date.
The Bhutanese treasure the natural environment as the source of all life. This traditional reverence for nature has beautified Bhutan with a rich and intact nature even in the 21st century.
The Royal Government of Bhutan maintains a balanced natural ecosystem. It is the central theme of the development process for the Royal Government of Bhutan. Royal Government of Bhutan has also committed to maintaining more than 70 percent forest cover for all time to come.
Currently, the total land under forest cover is 72.5 percent. Of these, more than 26 percent of the land is under protected areas.
See Diverse Flora and Fauna
Flora
Bhutan has a rich and varied biodiversity. The country ranks amongst the top ten percent of highest species density (species richness per unit area) in the world.
There are over 5500 species of flora in Bhutan. This includes 300 species of medicinal plants and over 50 species of Rhododendrons. There are also more than 600 species of orchid in Bhutan. You can find most of them up to 2100m, although some hardy species thrive even above 3,700m.
You can find tropical evergreen forests and the subtropical grasslands and forests. You can find the subtropical flora between 900m and 1800m. This includes rhododendron, the forest of oak, walnut and sal, and a variety of orchids.
The tropical vegetation includes dark forests of Oak, Birch, Maple, Magnolia, and Laurel.
Above 2400 altitude, you can find Spruce, Yew, and Weeping Cypress and the East Himalayan Fir. Between the tree line and the snow line at about 5,500m, you can find low shrubs, Rhododendrons, Himalayan grasses, and flowering herbs.
Bhutan’s national flower, Blue Poppy grows above the tree line 3,500 – 4,500m elevation. You can find them atop some high passes.
Fauna
Bhutan has a unique and un-exploited environment. Hence, it contains some of the best representatives of habitat types found in the Himalayas.
In the tropical and subtropical belt, Bhutan is home to the Asiatic Elephant, Greater One-horned Rhinoceros. It is also home to Gaur, Wild Water Buffalo, Hog Deer, Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Hornbill, Trogon. Along with these, it is also home to other mammals and birds.
The high Himalayas of Bhutan is home to the Blue Sheep, Takin, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, Wolf, and other species.
Further, records show that there are over 770 species of birds in Bhutan. It is also the center of 221 global endemic bird areas.
The country is famous for wintering populations (about 350 birds) of the vulnerable black-necked crane. You can find these birds in the valleys of Phobjikha, Bomdeling, and Gyetsa.
Tour Around the National Parks & Protected Areas
Bhutan has nine protected areas. This system sets aside approximately 26% of the country’s total land area. This land area includes national parks, nature reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation areas.
These include the following:
- Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary contains the former Kulong Chu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Jigme Dorji National Park
- Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park
- Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary
- Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
- Royal Manas National Park
- Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
- Phrumsengla National Park
- Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve
- Wangchuck Centennial National Park
- Motithang Takin Preserve
- Phobjikha Valley
How to Enjoy in Bhutan Nature Tours?
Lodge and Wildlife Activities
Operated by the National Park authorities, this include game viewing on elephant back or on jeeps. This also includes canoe excursion, bird watching walks or jungle walks.
The National Parks of Bhutan is home to a wide range of animals, birds, and plants. These activities can help you catch glimpses of these animals and birds in their natural habitat.
The parks are also home to many species of deer and many resident birds. If you are lucky you can also spot tigers, the rare golden langur, red panda, and others.
River Rafting
Bhutan is also home to some large river basins. You can enjoy the thrill and adventure of water sport. Rafting is more fun in the fast-flowing rivers in Bhutan.
Hiking or Trekking
Walking is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of any country including Bhutan. The short hikes in Bhutan take you to small villages, nestled among temples and monasteries in the beautiful countryside.
You can indulge in multi-day hikes or treks. These give you a close look into the life and culture of locals.
You can also enjoy the beauty of nature and landscapes. Many of the popular treks take you through the conservation areas of Bhutan. Hence, you can catch glimpses of animals, birds in their natural habitat.
Cycling
Cycling tours in Bhutan take you through a variety of landscapes. These tours can include glimpses and visits to remote, little-visited villages and towns of Bhutan.
You will catch the amazing views of Bhutan’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty. You can also take side trips to yak pastures, peaceful monasteries, and ruined ancient dzongs.
Seasons for Bhutan Nature Tours
Bhutan experiences a varied climate. It has four seasons- Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
Summer: Bhutan enjoys a wet summer from June to September. These months see heavy rains and high humidity.
Autumn: Autumn is generally sunny in most parts of Bhutan. You can enjoy your tour in a dry and warm climate. The autumn months of October to November also sees clear skies. This offers fabulous and unblocked views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Spring: For nature lovers, Spring can be the best time to visit Bhutan. March to May is when the valleys come alive with flowers in bloom. The animals also come out of their winter slumber. The Himalayan peaks are at their most visible with clear skies. These months are also great for trekking.
Winter: The local winter season is great for bird lovers. This is the season when the black-necked cranes migrate to Bhutan from Tibet. You can also enjoy snowfall in Bhutan. Snowfall in Bhutan is rare. Hence snowfall days are usually declared holidays in Bhutan.
Spring and Autumn are the best seasons to visit Bhutan. It offers dry and warm weather. The visibility is also great. These seasons are peak seasons in Bhutan. These seasons see a high number of visitors, trekkers, and travelers to Bhutan.
Things to Do During Bhutan Nature Tour
Visit the Ancient Dzongs and Monasteries
These ancient dzongs and monasteries are must visit places of Bhutan. These are home to intricate carvings, idols, traditional architecture, and secluded caves. You also get to view the stunning scenery and stories that surround the different places.
Take a Birdwatching Tour
Home to many endangered species of Birds, Bhutan is a bird watcher’s paradise. You can spend your time in bird watching during the nature exploration in Bhutan.
Soak in the Splendid Views of the Mountain Peaks
Going out on foot is the best way to view the surrounding mountain peaks. If walking is not for you, you can also drive to high vistas. Dochula Pass and the Chele La Pass are some of the places which offer panoramic access to the holy peaks.
Shopping
Shopping gives you the chance to indulge in the Handicraft goods of Bhutan. You can find hand-woven garments, handmade masks and singing bowls in Bhutan. You can also find other souvenirs like wooden bowls, printing blocks.
Explore the National Parks of Bhutan
National Parks are a revered point of pride for the Bhutanese people. The parks of Bhutan offer some of the most diverse protected areas in the world.
Most of the parks are home to rare and exotic animal and bird species. These are also home to a diverse range of plants.
Chase Butterflies
Around 900 species of Butterflies flutter amongst the hills and mountains of Bhutan.
You can spend your time taking real-life photos of these flitting beauties. For spotting butterflies, the Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular hotspots. You can also find the winged beauties all over Bhutan.
Final Say,
Bhutan Nature tours are a unique experience. You get to see the raw and undisturbed landscapes of Bhutan.
The tours take you through picturesque landscapes. You can enjoy views of spectacular mountain ranges and lush green valleys. You also get a glimpse of the rich and diverse ecosystem of Bhutan.
For any further queries or questions of your tour or trek in Bhutan or Nepal, feel free to contact us.
