Bhutan Botanical Tour

Trip Highlights

Biodiversity Centre (Thimphu),
Botanical Park (Lamperi),
Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park,
Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, and Thrumshingla National Park.

Trip overview

Visit the small Himalayan Kingdom that houses over 5,400 species of plants, including 300 species of medicinal plants, some species thriving even at 3,700m above. Explore the 369 species of orchids that Bhutan has, of which 82 are unique to the mountain country. See and feel the 46 species of rhododendrons in the country. The tropical evergreen forests growing below 800m are repositories of a unique biodiversity. The tropical vegetation of the lower zones gives way to dark forests of oak, birch, maple, magnolia and laurel. Above 2,400m altitude is the home of spruce, yew, and weeping cy- press, and higher still, growing up to the tree line, is the east Himalayan fir. At about 5,500m are low shrubs, rhododendrons, Himalayan grasses and flowering herbs. Bhutan’s national flower, Blue Poppy grows above the tree line 3,500 – 4,500m elevation.

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Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival at Paro

Flight to Bhutan’s only international airport (2,250 meters elevation). Enroute see the world’s highest mountains – the Abode of the Gods. After lunch, sightseeing around Paro valley

Halt in Paro.

mountain sunset bhutan

Day 02:

Paro

After a short drive, hike to Taktsang Monastery (3,000 meters), famous religiously and for its location smack in the middle of a huge wall of cliff. En route, see Bhutanese farms and meet people. Visit The Fortress of Victory (now in ruins) at Drukgyel, the National Museum, the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels (Paro Dzong), and the 7th century Kyichu Temple. Explore the vegetation in the valley towards late afternoon.

Night halt at hotel in Paro.

mountain hike bhutan

mountain sunset bhutan

Day 03:

Paro-Chelela-Thimphu

Drive to Chelela pass (3,810 m, over 12,000 ft) through a mixed forest of Rosa brunonii, Pieris formosa and Daphne papyracea and scour for aromatic herbs, meconopsis species and many primulas (P. Smithiana, P. Denticulata, P. Sikki- mensis). Chelela has an alpine ecosystem with several en- dangered and endemic species. Nearly all flora species found here are medicinal. Some rare species found are Meconopsis horidula, Meconopsis grandis, Fetillsria chirhosa, Aconitum Spp, Rhododendron anthopogon, Rhododendron nivale, Rhododendron setosum, Primula Species, Juniperus etc. The place is especially spectacular in the summer, when all the wildflowers are in full bloom.

Night halt at hotel in Thimphu.

valley trek icon

Day 04:

Thimphu

Tour the National Bio-Diversity Centre, Serbithang (just 8 kms away from the main town), Botanical Garden at Serbithang, and the Mushroom Centre at Semtokha (5 kms) Visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine (NITM) in Kawajangsa, Thimphu, to learn about Bhutan’s art of making traditional medicine, in particular the hundreds of plants that are used as ingredients. See places of historical and cultural interest in and around Thimphu. Night halt in Thimphu.

trekking trail icon

Day 05:

Thimphu-Dochula-Lamperi-Punakha

Drive to Dochula (10,450 ft, or 3,100 meters), which provides a 360 degree panoramic view of the highest unclimbed mountains of the world. The place is considered a vital conservation area with significant altitudinal and associated changes in vegetation within short distances. The east facing slope harbors cool temperate broad-leaves forest at the higher elevation and Pinus roxburghii (chirpine) in lower elevations while the west facing slope consists of conifers from Abies densa(fir) and Juniperous recurva down to Pinus wallichiana (blue pine).

A few kilometers away is the Lamperi Royal Botanical Park, which has 46 species of Rhododendron. The park also has trekking routes that lead into a cool moist forest of huge oak, magnolia and birch trees draped in moss that rings with the sound of birds and insects. The park is part of a 47-sq mile critical biological corridor connecting the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park which are located in the areas of Trongsa, bumthang,

Monger & Zhemgang. Jigme Dorji National Park: It has cool broad leaf forests, mixed conifer forests, fir and sub-alpine forests and the temperate rain forest with hundreds of species of fauna. Some of the rare species found in the park are the monal pheasants, blood pheasants, musk deer, tiger, leopard, red panda and the leopard cat.

Walk down an old trading route and witness a forest of Silk Cotton trees, Jacaranda and many tree ferns as we climb down to Punakha (4,160 ft) through paddy fields, farm houses, mountain brooks, and lush green landscapes.

Visit places of historical and cultural interest in the Punakha- Wangduephodrang valley, including the spectacular fortress of Punakha, and the Temple of Divine Mad Man.

Night halt at hotel in Punakha.

rhododendron flower

talo village bhutan

Day 06:

Punakha-Wangdue

We enter the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park area where, among others, 55 orchid species (including Coelo- gyne corymbosa, Dendrobium nobile and Dendrobium perardi) have been found in the sub-tropical forests of the upper Mo Chu valley.

We spend most of the day in the park and towards evening take a leisurely drive along the Punatsangchu river basin which is renowned as the habitat of one of the world’s most endangered bird, the White-Bellied Heron.

Night halt at hotel in Wangduephodrang.

Day 07:

Wangdue-Phobjikha

We head to the east through the ruins of an impressive 17th century fortress, to a splendid landscape of alpine forests, meadows, and flowers, including different species of Rhododendrons, Legumes, Magnolia, Weeping Cypress (national tree of Bhutan), etc. Then we enter into the Phobjika valley (10,000 ft), the winter home of the rare black-necked cranes. We walk for two hour through scattered forest of red, pink and white rhododendrons (Rhododendron hodgsonii, R. keysii, R. kesan- giae, R. ciliatum) to our lodge.

Halt at Phobjikha.

Day 08:

Phobjikha-Bumthang

Drive to Bumthang valley (200km) through Pelela Pass which ascends up to 3,340m and see wonderful view of Himalayan Mountains. The drive takes us through thick dwarf bamboo, Yak habitats, and Rhododendrons with beautiful hues of red, white, and yellow.

See the spectacular Trongsa fortress, the ancestral palace home of Bhutan’s Kings. Also see the Watch Tower, and the town before driving to Bumthang valley across the Yotongla Pass.

Halt in Bumthang

trongsa dzong trail

Day 09:

Bumthang– Ura-Bumthang

Drive to Ura valley, see the “Burning Lake” on the way, and stop enroute for various species of Rhododendrons, Rubus, Acer, Aconitum, Delphinium, Ranunculus, Clemantis, few species of orchid such as Coelogyne, Pleione, Cephalenthera, conifers such as Fir, Hemlock, Pine, Juniperus, Primulas, Androsac, etc.

Halt the night there.

Day 10:

Bumthang

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Bumthang to Punakha (approx. 6 hours). The journey winds through mountain passes, forests, and picturesque valleys, offering beautiful views along the way. Upon arrival in Punakha, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.

Overnight at Punakha.

Day 11:

Bumthang–Thimphu

After breakfast, drive to Paro via Thimphu, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way. Upon arrival in Paro, you may explore the town at leisure, visit local markets, or simply unwind at your hotel in preparation for departure.

Overnight in Paro.

Day 12:

Thimphu – Paro

After early breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you wonderful memories of your Bhutan journey.

Cost Details

Cost includes

Accommodation
Full Board Meals
English speaking Guide
Transportation
Entrance fee, Visa fee
Unlimited bottles of mineral water
Applicable government taxes(5%GST)
SDF
Trying out of traditional Bhutan attire.

Cost exclusion

Medical & personal insurance
Personal expenses
Emergency evacuation charges
Tips for the guide and driver
Airfare
Pony Ride to Taktshang (Tiger Nest)
Hot Stone Bath
Raffting

Trip Facts

Trip Duration 12 Days

Trip Price 2815

Single Supplement 462

Region Covered Bumthang, central Bhutan

Accomodation Hotel or Resort

Entry Paro, Western Bhutan

Ideal Seasons March, April, May, June, July, September, October & December

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Trip gallery

Some snapshots during past trips

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Hotels/Accommodations

Hotels where you’ll be staying during this trip

Our Bhutan tour packages are specifically curated with the travellers in mind. As a reputable Bhutan travel agency, for the past 23 years, our tour guides and travel specialists have dedicatedly served travellers from all over the world. We want to show you what Bhutan has to offer, and we’re committed to making your trip to Bhutan a special and memorable one. We have a deep love for the Kingdom, and we hope that you’ll come to love it too.

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5 Star Hotels

Transportation

Choice of vehicles for this trip

Private SUVs for Couples 2 Seater

Toyota Innova (2 Units) 5 Seater

Coaster Buses (4 Units) 25 Seater

Mini Bus (8-Seater) 8 pax. Seater

Restaurants

Food and Drink

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 89 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Carolann M 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable week in Bhutan!
An unforgettable week in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom In July 2025, I joined a 7-day group tour of Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom, and it was truly an unforgettable experience from start to finish. I had a fantastic time and enjoyed every single moment of the trip. From the very beginning, I felt incredibly well looked after and completely safe, which allowed me to fully relax and immerse myself in the experience. The organisation was excellent, and I was especially impressed by how much we managed to see and do in just one week without ever feeling rushed. Our tour guide, Karma, was absolutely outstanding. His knowledge, professionalism, and warm personality made the journey even more special. He went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable, informed, and enjoying themselves, and his passion for Bhutan really shone through. Thanks to Happiness Kingdom and Karma, this trip created memories I will cherish forever. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a visit to Bhutan — you won’t be disappointed.
  
 
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   Rachel L 
 
 
 
 Verified A fantastic Bhutan trip!
We had a wonderful experience exploring Bhutan’s rich culture with Jigme Thinley and Tenzin Wangchuk. Jigme is incredibly knowledgeable and provided engaging explanations about Bhutan’s history and traditions. We thoroughly enjoyed learning from him. Every story, explanation, and insight added depth and meaning to the places we visited. At one point, Jigme even prepared a simple makeshift heat pack to ensure we stayed comfortable in the cool mountain weather. That thoughtful gesture made all the difference and showed just how dedicated he is to his guests’ comfort. Shoutout to Tenzin as well, a wonderful and skilled driver. We felt safe and comfortable throughout our journey. Both of them were exceptionally helpful and attentive. Each day was well-scheduled and relaxed, letting us take in the experience without rush.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Becky S 
 
 
 
 Verified Best value to see Bhutan in a cultural tour
We selected this tour company both because of reviews and cost. Flights to and from Bhutan cost more than our 10-days in Bhutan with Happiness Kingdom. Our guide, Tschering Namgay, and driver, Tashi, were great! Both were so polite and helpful. Tashi was a safe driver. Namgay was a very knowledgeable cultural guide. He explained all the temples and fortresses, the stories and history of Bhutan, and the nuances and meanings of Buddhist sculptures and paintings. He had a good sense of humor and worked hard to ensure we got to see and do all that we wanted to do. Communication with the tour company was delayed, because of the time difference, but always responsive. They were happy to rearrange the plans to accommodate what we wanted to do instead of the standard, without leaving out the important things we didn't even know we wanted to see. Our hotels were comfortable, restaurants with good and sufficient food, and although our schedule was full, we were not rushed (just tired) every day. We got to see the black-necked cranes and several other birds. We enjoyed the Takin Preserve to see some of the more difficult species of animals. Word of caution though - if you are unfit, need a cane, walker, or wheelchair, Bhutan is NOT for you. There are stairs and hilly climbs everywhere. It is not ADA-compliant. But, if you want to take a tour of Bhutan, we recommend Happiness Kingdom as your tour company & #tscheringnamgay, #tashi as your guide and driver.
  
 
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   Sam B 
 
 
 
 Verified Great 6-day trip in Bhutan
Really enjoyed our 6 day tour of Bhutan with our guide Bhim and driver Tshering. They were both very attentive to our every need, and took us to some great places. We loved the hike to Tiger's Nest and the visit of Punakha Zhong. Bhim was very knowledgeable and gave us all the context and history we needed while visiting all the religious sites. Thanks again for everything!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   ik298 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful trip
7days Bhutan Trip 19.th – 25th. of October 2025 I had booked the 7days trip to Bhutan via Asia Odyssee travel agency. This trip was really a great adventure and everything was wonderful. Well Bhutan I is a very special and amazing country with such a beautiful landscape, very cultivated architecture and overall deep religious life. Well let me give you some details of my tour: The first 3 days I spent with 5 other persons from all over the world. On the second day we made the hike to Tiger nest. I am not so used to climb steep mountains (Steps!!!), so my knees were already quite hurting from my former trek in Nepal. Our driver, Phub Gyeltshen, carried all the way up my backpack and motivated me all the way up to carry on. All the three days he was always there when somebody needed anything, everybody found on his place freshwater bottles. His drive was safe and very relaxed. The last days I travelled alone with the same guide and the driver Gembo. There we had quite long drives – over Dochu La. Also his way to drive was save and forward-looking. I really could enjoy to be on routes. But the main contribution of this wonderful trip layed in the responsibility of the guide (all 7 days!) Sonam Phuntsho. He is such a mindfulness person and always tries to make that everybody feels well. His explanations at the different sites where really detailed and showed that he has a great knowledge, specially religious belongings. Two of the other travellers were Tibetans and he could give always profound answers even from them, who had a great knowledge of the Bhuddist religion. In the day when I was travelling alone, we talked a lot about the social life, education, regime (your King), environmental protection and much more. So I got a deep insight of the life in Bhutan. So I really want to thank you for this wonderful days. Before this trip Bhutan seemed to be an unreachable country and somehow unreal, but now it is a part of my dreams, a country were I really could feel the meaning of happiness and mindfulness. .
  
 
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   Paul W 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing place. Wonderful people.
I did a 7-day trip through West Bhutan and loved the tour overall. It was very well organised and Bhim (Narayan) and Dorji (Wangchuk) were a pleasure to spend time with. Friendly, helpful and a credit to the hospitality of their country. My personal highlights were the dzong at Punakha, getting to enjoy two tsechus (festivals) at Wangdue and Thimphu, and the hike to Tiger's Nest. The addition of a homestay was also a nice way to see a different side to Bhutan. I can thoroughly recommend both visiting Bhutan and this trip.
  
 
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   thierry w 
 
 
 
 Verified Great travel in Bhutan
Very well organise 10 days tour group in Bhutan. the guide Tashi and Phuba the driver were fantastic. Adapting the time for us to discover places without rushing us. 'the hotels were we stayed were nice and the food very good. I would highly recommand happiness kingdom travel to anyone who decide to travel to bhutan
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Chris K 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic tour, well organised, great Guide and Driver. Excellent in all aspects
Did a small group tour of Bhutan over 10 days with Tashi and driver Phuba. The tour took our group from Paro to Thimbu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley and Bumthang Valley. A lot of logistics to get that to go off smoothly; stayed in good hotels, always with extremely enthusiastic staff, saw lots. But what really set this off was Tashi; extremely knowledgeable and equally extremely patient with guiding the group through from zero to at least a vague understanding of Bhutan Buddhist culture and history. Tashi, your sense of humor and tolerance really made this trip work. And Phuba always there and ready to assist.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   MK L 
 
 
 
 Verified A memorable journey!
It was our first visit to Bhutan, and it turned out to be an incredibly unforgettable journey -- stunning views, awesome culture, and super friendly locals! We arranged this exclusive 6-day trip via a travel agency in Hong Kong. We landed at Paro Airport on 7 Sept and proceeded to Thimphu, then Punakha, before returning to Paro for the Tiger's Nest. Huge thanks to our amazing guide Jigme for his expertise, organization, and dedication in making the journey truly memorable. He possesses great knowledge and has revealed to us the charm of Bhutan. Jigme attentively looked after us in every way, including informing all the restaurants of my dietary preference, and ensured we were comfortable to fully enjoy each moment throughout the trip. We are grateful for our friendly driver Tashi and his outstanding abilities. The ride was so comfortable and smooth! We couldn't have requested a better team! 👍👍 I was also impressed that Jigme not only spoke fluent English but also knew French! A heartfelt thank you to Jigme and Tashi, and I wish you both the very best! 🙏🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Madam Wong 
 
 
 
 Verified The Guide Who Turned Our Bhutan Trip Into a Masterpiece .
TE25070007AT Bhutan is a country rich in culture and steeped in deep historical traditions. Our tour guide, Mr. Trashi Dhendup Namgyel, demonstrated exceptional professionalism throughout our journey. He was highly knowledgeable and consistently able to answer all of our questions with clarity and insight. Mr. Namgyel also went out of his way to accommodate our requests whenever possible, ensuring that our experience was both comfortable and memorable. We are truly grateful to have had him as our guide on this meaningful trip. — Madam Wong