The Ultimate Amankora Journey

Arrive at Thimphu Lodge and settle in before exploring the nearby capital’s many urban attractions. From the Textile Museum, Buddha Dordenma and National Memorial, to the School of 13 Arts and Folk Heritage Museum, the city offers something for everyone, providing instant immersion into local living. 

On Day two, enjoy a morning hike to Cheri Goemba monastery, stopping at 16th-century Pangri Zampa, now an astrology training school. Discover the art of paper making and incense rolling, browse Himalayan artefacts or make your own stamp at the post office. After lunch, head to the Tashi Chhoe Dzong, the seat of government, before taking a sunset stroll past the Takin Animal Sanctuary for views over the valley. 
 

After breakfast, hike to Phajoding (2,800m) for panoramic views of Thimphu Valley. The three-hour ascent and two-hour descent pass through chir pine and rhododendron forests.  

The next morning, relax and enjoy the views as your driver takes you over Dochu La Pass to Punakha. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s first fortress, and the Hongtsho Goemba Monastery with its ancient wall paintings. After a picnic lunch, continue to Punakha, stopping at Chimi Lhakhang, the 15th-century fertility monastery where couples seek to be blessed with the gift of a child. 

Start the morning with a hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a monument built by the Bhutanese Queen Mother. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese Farmhouse lunch at the lodge, then try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport, in the afternoon.  

The next day, visit the hilltop Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhan nunnery, offering panoramic views of Punakha and Wangduephodrang. Explore the valley by foot, car or bike, and take a trip to its iconic suspension bridge. 

The two-hour drive to Gangtey Lodge follows the scenic Mo Chhu River. On arrival, explore Gangtey village and visit the historic Gangtey Goemba, with its ancient altars and sweeping vistas. If the Gangtey Trulku is in residence, an audience for a blessing can also be arranged.  

The next day, enjoy the Nature Trail Walk, Tongpushing Hike or both for a full valley loop. Time permitting, visit the Black-Necked Crane Centre and, during winter, spot these rare birds as they migrate from Tibet. 

After breakfast, embark on the awe-inspiring Longtey hike. The trail winds through forest, ascending to a ridge with stunning views of Gangtey Valley. Return to the lodge to refuel with a Potato Shed Dinner, an authentic Bhutanese meal in a cosy, candlelit hut warmed by a traditional wood-burning stove.

On Day 10, take a five-hour drive to Bumthang via Bhutan’s east-west highway. Stop briefly at Chendebji Chorten, then continue to Trongsa, the royal family’s ancestral home. Explore the village or visit the inspiring Trongsa Dzong. Cross the scenic Yotong La Pass into Chhume Valley, known for Yathra weaving. On reaching the lodge, visit adjacent Wangdichhoeling Palace, once home to Bhutan’s second King.  

Begin your day exploring Jambay Lhakhang – host to winter festivals attracting thousands for sacred blessings – and Kurjey Lhakhang, a sacred site linked to Guru Rinpoche. Afterwards, visit the Tamzhing Monastery, known for its unique murals.

On Day 12, journey to the serene Tang Valley, home to hidden temples and monasteries. Visit Membartsho (Burning Lake), where legend says Pema Lingpa emerged with treasures and a lit butter lamp. Discover a nunnery and Ta Rimochen Lhakhang, a temple built in the 14th century, where Guru Rinpoche once meditated. 

Fly from Bumthang to Paro on a scenic 45-minute journey. Upon arrival, travel north to Paro Lodge, tucked within a tranquil pine forest. Visit the National Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rich culture, before exploring the nearby Paro Dzong, home to important monastic and cultural treasures. After lunch, see the unique Dumtse Lhakhang stupa and stroll through Paro’s old town.  

On the final morning, bid farewell to Bhutan, taking the 30-minute journey from the lodge to  Paro International Airport (PBH).