Mountains & Rivers of Bhutan Itinerary

Dzonka-English Translations:
Chhu = river, La = pass, Dzong = monastery/fortress, Lhakhang = temple, Stupa/Chorten = shrine

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Explore Rinpung Dzong

Touch down in Paro, Bhutan, where breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas greet you as your flight descends into the narrow valley. After meeting your guides at the airport, check in to your hotel and enjoy a welcoming lunch. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby monastery and the iconic Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress that exemplifies Bhutanese architecture.
Overnight in Paro (Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 2: Rafting the Paro Chhu – Journey to Thimphu

Start your day with an exciting rafting excursion on the Paro Chhu, a crystal-clear Himalayan river with thrilling Class III rapids. Along the route, pause to admire a historic iron bridge crafted by a Tibetan monk in the 14th century.

In the afternoon, we’ll travel to Bhutan’s lively capital, Thimphu, nestled at 7,656 feet in the Wang Chhu Valley. After settling into the hotel, visit the world’s largest seated Buddha, a remarkable modern landmark overlooking the city.
Overnight in Thimphu (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 3: Cross Dochu La Pass – Visit the Temple of the Divine Madman

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Thimphu’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary culture with time to browse its shops and cafes. Later, drive over the scenic Dochu La pass, sitting at 10,300 feet, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views and the 108 memorial chortens surrounded by colorful prayer flags.

In Punakha Valley, take a short hike through terraced rice fields to the fascinating Temple of the Divine Madman, built in 1499. This temple, decorated with symbolic artwork, honors Drukpa Kunley, a legendary Bhutanese saint known for his unconventional teachings. You’ll even have the chance to participate in a traditional fertility blessing.
Overnight in Punakha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 4: Rafting the Pho Chhu – Discover Punakha Dzong

Travel into the fertile Pho Chhu Valley for an invigorating paddle down the emerald-green waters of the Pho Chhu River. The Class II/III rapids offer fun, scenic rafting for all skill levels. After lunch, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress built at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers.

As one of Bhutan’s most treasured landmarks, this historic site has withstood fires, floods, and earthquakes over the centuries. It has also hosted significant events, including the coronations of Bhutan’s first and fifth kings.
Overnight in Punakha (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Days 5–7: Three-Day Rafting Expedition on the Puna Tseng Chhu

On Day 5, drive to the Sunkosh Bridge and begin a 33-mile rafting adventure on the Puna Tseng Chhu. This three-day journey takes you through the serene landscapes of the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary in southern Bhutan.

Navigate exciting Class II and III rapids, with one Class IV rapid that may require portaging. Camp along the river under starry skies and visit Bara Gumti, a charming farming village where you can enjoy local hospitality. The trip concludes near Karmaling Village, close to the Indian border, followed by a scenic drive back to Paro on the final afternoon.
Two Nights Camping (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 8: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

Spend your last full day in Bhutan hiking to Taktsang Monastery, known as the Tiger’s Nest. The trek begins with a two-hour ascent to a viewpoint, followed by another 20 minutes to the monastery entrance.

Perched on a sheer cliff face 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley, Taktsang is a spiritual and architectural marvel. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a flying tigress in the 8th century and meditated in caves before introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

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Day 9: Depart Paro – Return to Bangkok

Bid farewell to Bhutan and board your flight back to Bangkok. Extend your stay in Thailand to explore further or catch your connecting flight home.
(Breakfast)

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Important Notes: This itinerary is subject to change based on local festivals, weather conditions, and river accessibility. Substitutions may be made to ensure the best possible experience.

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.