Journey to the Kingdom of Happiness, Bhutan
Tour dates: May 1st - May 10th
"People here are in no rush, considering the meaning of life to be helping others and enjoying the very process of existence on the planet."
Bhutan – The Kingdom of Happiness
Nestled among the Himalayan mountains, Bhutan has preserved its medieval way of life: locals wear traditional clothing, practice archery, and live in harmony with nature.
Bhutan is a country without poverty, hunger, or crime. Chemical fertilizers are not used here, and forests are planted on barren mountain slopes.
The country's name in its native language is Druk Yul ("The Land of the Thunder Dragon"). More than half of its territory is located above 3,000 meters, with a quarter covered by glaciers.
Bhutan is a country accessible to only a few thousand travelers a year. By visiting it, you become part of history, exploring one of the most secluded places in the world.
Only aristocratic travelers come here – people eager to explore the most secluded country in Asia and prepared to make significant investments for this unique experience.
"The happiness of the people is more important than the percentage of Gross Domestic Product," said the king. The kingdom even has a Ministry of Happiness.
The King of Bhutan strives to preserve the ancient culture and traditions by limiting the influx of tourists from the "money-corrupted" world. The country has established a Ministry of Happiness, where Gross National Happiness is measured instead of Gross National Product. Economic development is planned at a slow pace to safeguard family, cultural, and Buddhist values, as well as the natural environment.
Traditions and Culture
In Bhutan, Buddhism is not just a religion but a way of life. Here, no one is in a rush, and the meaning of existence is considered to be helping others and savoring each moment.
The Bhutanese people’s favorite tale is the parable of the four friends: an elephant, a monkey, a rabbit, and a peacock. Through mutual help and cleverness, they managed to grow a fruit tree, but the fruits were out of reach. By combining their efforts, they formed a pyramid: the elephant stood at the bottom, the monkey climbed on top, followed by the rabbit, with the peacock at the very top to gather the harvest.
This parable symbolizes Bhutan’s philosophy—the importance of cooperation, care, and unity.
In Bhutan, Buddhism is not just a religion but a way of life. Here, no one is in a rush, and the meaning of existence is considered to be helping others and savoring each moment.
The Bhutanese people’s favorite tale is the parable of the four friends: an elephant, a monkey, a rabbit, and a peacock. Through mutual help and cleverness, they managed to grow a fruit tree, but the fruits were out of reach. By combining their efforts, they formed a pyramid: the elephant stood at the bottom, the monkey climbed on top, followed by the rabbit, with the peacock at the very top to gather the harvest.
This parable symbolizes Bhutan’s philosophy—the importance of cooperation, care, and unity.
National Clothing and Customs
Travelers often feel like staying here forever, among people dressed in costumes and dresses reminiscent of the 17th century, smiling and genuinely happy.
Men wear long, colorful knee-high socks and gho robes in fine or large checkered patterns. The knee-length robe is wrapped and tied with a belt in a specific way, forming a large "pocket" for documents or other small items.
When men visit a dzong, they must wear a white kabney scarf over their everyday robe. The scarf hangs from the left shoulder to the right hip, symbolizing formality and respect for the governors and monks residing in the dzong.
When greeting the regional governor, our guide courteously bowed and asked us to do the same—respect for elders is deeply ingrained everywhere.
Travelers often feel like staying here forever, among people dressed in costumes and dresses reminiscent of the 17th century, smiling and genuinely happy.
Men wear long, colorful knee-high socks and gho robes in fine or large checkered patterns. The knee-length robe is wrapped and tied with a belt in a specific way, forming a large "pocket" for documents or other small items.
When men visit a dzong, they must wear a white kabney scarf over their everyday robe. The scarf hangs from the left shoulder to the right hip, symbolizing formality and respect for the governors and monks residing in the dzong.
When greeting the regional governor, our guide courteously bowed and asked us to do the same—respect for elders is deeply ingrained everywhere.
Tour Organizers
Travel Program 🗺️
Day 1: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport
- Airport pickup and private transfer to the hotel.
- Hotel check-in, a brief rest, and lunch.
- Excursion program:
- Visit to Swayambhunath Stupa.
- Walk through Durbar Square in Kathmandu.
- Visit to Durbar Square in Patan.
- Excursion to Boudhanath Stupa.
- Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2: Flight to Bhutan
- Arrival in Paro, one of the world's most picturesque valleys. The flight offers breathtaking views as the plane lands amidst the Himalayan mountains.
- 🚗 Transfer to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.
- En route, enjoy spectacular Himalayan landscapes and views of rural houses among rice fields.
- Thimphu's medieval-style architecture, with brightly decorated facades, is captivating.
- 🏨 Hotel check-in, rest, and a city walk.
Day 3: Thimphu — Punakha 🍳
- Morning: Breakfast and sightseeing:
- National Memorial Chorten.
- Tashichho Dzong: The Fortress of the Blessed Religion.
- Visit to the world’s tallest Buddha Shakyamuni statue (51.5 m), offering views of the Thimphu Valley.
- 🎭 Visit to a monastery festival dedicated to a local deity.
- Afternoon:
- Transfer from Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,150 m), famous for its 108 chortens.
- Along the way, enjoy pine forests, mountain villages, and stunning views.
Day 4: Punakha 🌅
- Visit to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), built in honor of Drukpa Kunley, the "Divine Madman." The temple is located atop a hill surrounded by rice fields and is a pilgrimage site.
- Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, an architectural masterpiece commissioned by the queen mother. The summit offers breathtaking views of Punakha Valley, rivers, and mountains. The hike includes a suspension bridge and serene paths through rice fields.
- Visit to Punakha Dzong, a magnificent architectural monument located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, symbolizing Bhutan's spiritual and political heritage.
Day 5: Gangtey and Phobjikha Valleys 🌄
- Excursion to the Gangtey and Phobjikha Valleys, renowned for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Walk along the Gangtey Natural Trail with stunning valley views.
- Visit to Gangtey Monastery, a significant religious center, to explore its traditions.
- End the day at the Black-Necked Crane Center, learning about the conservation of these rare birds that migrate to the valley in winter.
Day 6: Return to Paro 🚗
- Transfer to Paro via Dochula Pass (approximately 4–5 hours). Stop for lunch and to enjoy the Himalayan views.
- Upon arrival, visit Paro Dzong and Paro Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan).
- Evening: Participate in a cultural program showcasing Bhutan’s rich traditions and arts.
- Check-in at a cozy hotel and relax.
Day 7: Taktsang Monastery – Tiger's Nest 🍳
- Morning: Breakfast and transfer to Satsam Chorten, the starting point of the hike.
- Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest): A monastery perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley.
- According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on a tigress and meditated in a cave.
- Built in the 17th century, it became a symbol of Buddhism’s spread in Bhutan.
- The hike to the monastery takes several hours. Horses can be hired for convenience.
- Afternoon: After lunch, enjoy an evening stroll through Paro’s shopping district.
Day 8: Flight to Kathmandu ✈️
- Return to Kathmandu.
- 🛍️ Relaxation and shopping.
- 🍽️ Gala dinner.
Day 9: Return Home ✈️
- Departure from Kathmandu to Istanbul or Moscow.
- 🏠 End of the tour.
Tour Cost
The cost of the tour per person is $3699.
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What’s Included 📋
🚗 Transfers throughout the tour
🏨 Accommodation in comfortable 4-star hotels
🍽️ Meals according to the program
🗺️ Guided excursions along all planned routes
What’s Not Included ❌
✈️ Flights:
- Istanbul → Kathmandu → Paro
- Paro → Kathmandu → Istanbul
- (these are purchased separately)
- 💳 Visa to Nepal ($35, obtained at the airport)
- 📄 Travel insurance
- 💵 Personal expenses
VIDEO TESTIMONIALS FROM THE PREVIOUS TOUR
Pilgrimage to India: Our Experiences
This February, we embarked on a spiritual pilgrimage across India. We visited the temples of the five elements and ancient shrines. During the day, we worked on karma, and in the evenings, we danced bachata by the ocean. The tour concluded with a gala dinner featuring Indian dances in the Pink City of Jaipur, where participants shared their vibrant impressions of the journey. It was an exciting adventure that left everyone feeling renewed upon returning.
Unforgettable Moments
Our journeys are filled with spiritual practices, discoveries, breathtaking architecture, and cultural heritage. We explored the temples of the five elements and the magnificent Taj Mahal, greeted the sunrise at the southern cape where the sound "Om" originated, received blessings from saints, and participated in yajnas. Additionally, we enjoyed the ocean, practiced Ayurveda to care for our health, and spent joyful moments dancing and laughing.
The Profound Meaning of Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage is one of the oldest spiritual practices. India, Nepal, and the Himalayas hold a special place in this process. We visit sacred sites, temples, and rivers with unique histories and spiritual significance. Our goal is not only to visit these holy places but also to seek a deeper meaning in life, ease karmic lessons, and ascend to a new level. Indian culture and philosophy emphasize the importance of self-purification and meditation, transforming pilgrimage into an inner journey toward self-discovery and spiritual growth.
This is a brief overview of our previous pilgrimage, filled with unforgettable moments and spiritual revelations, which we are delighted to share in our video testimonials.
This February, we embarked on a spiritual pilgrimage across India. We visited the temples of the five elements and ancient shrines. During the day, we worked on karma, and in the evenings, we danced bachata by the ocean. The tour concluded with a gala dinner featuring Indian dances in the Pink City of Jaipur, where participants shared their vibrant impressions of the journey. It was an exciting adventure that left everyone feeling renewed upon returning.
Unforgettable Moments
Our journeys are filled with spiritual practices, discoveries, breathtaking architecture, and cultural heritage. We explored the temples of the five elements and the magnificent Taj Mahal, greeted the sunrise at the southern cape where the sound "Om" originated, received blessings from saints, and participated in yajnas. Additionally, we enjoyed the ocean, practiced Ayurveda to care for our health, and spent joyful moments dancing and laughing.
The Profound Meaning of Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage is one of the oldest spiritual practices. India, Nepal, and the Himalayas hold a special place in this process. We visit sacred sites, temples, and rivers with unique histories and spiritual significance. Our goal is not only to visit these holy places but also to seek a deeper meaning in life, ease karmic lessons, and ascend to a new level. Indian culture and philosophy emphasize the importance of self-purification and meditation, transforming pilgrimage into an inner journey toward self-discovery and spiritual growth.
This is a brief overview of our previous pilgrimage, filled with unforgettable moments and spiritual revelations, which we are delighted to share in our video testimonials.
