Bhutan Details

Day 1 – Fly Bangkok, Thailand to Paro, Bhutan

All trips begin with a flight to Paro landing at 7200 feet. The flight provides incredible views of the eastern Himalayas. Lunch is the first meal included with the trip. the afternoon will be spent enjoying Paro with its traditional houses, 100 historic sites and monasteries including Rinpung Dzong. Read more about the different itinerary options.

Video: Bhutan Rafting and Cultural Trips

What to Expect

Making the most of your trip

We find people have the most fun when they remain flexible. The itinerary may vary depending on local festivals, water flow, roads and/or river access. Activities may be substituted or the schedule adjusted to provide the best possible trip.

Weather

In November, Bhutan enjoys late autumn weather, making it one of the best times to visit. The country’s altitudes range from about 200 meters (656 feet) in the southern foothills to over 7,000 meters (22,966 feet) in the high Himalayas, creating varied climates.

• Lower altitudes (e.g., Punakha, 1,200 meters / 3,937 feet): Daytime temperatures range from 20–25°C (68–77°F), with cooler nights around 10°C (50°F).
• Central valleys (e.g., Thimphu and Paro, 2,200–2,500 meters / 7,218–8,202 feet): Daytime temperatures are typically 12–20°C (54–68°F), while nights drop to 0–5°C (32–41°F).
• Higher-altitude trekking areas (above 3,000 meters / 9,843 feet): Daytime temperatures are colder, around 5–10°C (41–50°F), and nights can fall well below freezing.

Skies are generally clear with bright sunshine, and rainfall is rare, creating ideal conditions for hiking, rafting, and sightseeing. Visitors should pack layers to stay comfortable across these varying climates.

Group Size & Rafts

Trips are limited to 12 guests plus a mixture of Bhutanese and American guides, usually at least one of each. On river. 14-foot long paddle raft carries six people plus a guide. Each person paddles as a guide calls out the paddling commands.

Dietary Restrictions

Bhutanese people are generally receptive to dietary requests and do their best to accommodate, especially with prior notice. Carrying snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars can also be helpful to ensure you have something to eat when options are scarce.

Price Includes

Gratuities

Guides appreciate gratuities for their efforts. Typically, tips range around 10% to 15% of the trip cost and can be given to the head guide to be evenly distributed amongst the crew. That being said, the choice to tip is yours and depends upon your feelings about the trip and tipping in general as well as your financial means.

Packing for your river trip

You will be provided with a suggested packing list after signing up for the trip. The key equipment is being able to layer to adjust to the changes conditions. While rain rarely falls in the December, proper rain gear will make it a much more joyful experience if it does. Here are some rain gear, footwear, and other clothing options we recommend.

Getting There and Away

Bangkok, Thailand to Paro, Bhutan

While it is possible to fly into Bhutan from other locations, these trips are most convenient when all group members fly in from Bangkok. Spending a day or two in Bangkok before your trip is a great way to overcome jet lag and experience the vibrant city. The flight from Bangkok (Thailand) to Paro (Bhutan) typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. This is the most common route for international flights into Bhutan, as Paro is the only international airport in the country. Flights to Bhutan are limited, with only a few carriers operating to and from Paro, and many routes, other than from Bangkok, have limited schedules and may not be flown daily.

Map of Bhutan

Bangkok

A bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and unique energy, Bankok serves as a convenient stop for travelers on their way to Bhutan. The city can be overwhelming at first, but with time, its chaotic nature becomes part of its charm.

Transportation in Bangkok is quite accessible. The BTS Skytrain provides an efficient way to navigate certain areas, especially during peak traffic times. However, it doesn’t reach all parts of the city, so taxis or tuk-tuks may be necessary for more specific destinations. Sukhumvit Road, a central area in Bangkok, is home to a wide range of accommodations and is well-connected to public transportation. A popular mid-range option is the Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11, located on Soi 11.

For those looking for a more lively and budget-friendly area, Khao San Road is popular with backpackers and offers a mix of street food, bars, and reasonably priced guesthouses. If you’re interested in exploring the city from the water, boat taxis along the Chao Phraya River are an excellent option, especially for reaching historic sites like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace.