Flavors of the Dragon

Trip Highlights

Taste the unique flavors of Bhutan with dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese), yak and buckwheat specialties in Bumthang, and Hoentoe dumplings in Haa, as well as Indian and Malaysian cuisine experiences along the journey.
Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff, explore historic Kurje and Jamphel Lhakhangs in Bumthang, and visit fertility and protective deity temples like Chimi Lhakhang and the abode of Ap Chundu in Haa.
Discover Bhutanese history and architecture at majestic dzongs, including Paro Rinpung Dzong, Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, Punakha Dzong at the confluence of two rivers, and the ancient Trongsa Dzong on the way to Bumthang.
Explore Bhutanese life up close with visits to local farmhouses, tasting Ara (rice wine), and stops at markets along the way to try fresh local produce, street snacks, and traditional desserts.

Trip overview

Though small in size, Bhutan is culturally diverse, with people speaking different dialects shaped by its rugged terrain and once-isolated communities. This diversity is reflected in its regional cuisines. Rice is the staple of every meal, usually served with flavorful curries, the most famous being Ema Datshi—chili cooked with cheese. Bhutanese cuisine is known for its bold spiciness, as chilies are treated more like a vegetable than a spice. Common ingredients include spinach, pumpkins, radishes, tomatoes, beans, and river greens, along with pork, beef, and chicken prepared in various styles. Popular drinks include butter tea, locally brewed ara (rice wine), and beer. Traveling across Bhutan offers a rich culinary journey, with each region presenting its own unique specialties.

Why Book Your Trip Now?

Experience Bhutan’s unique blend of cultural heritage, spiritual landmarks, and culinary adventures. From tasting authentic Bhutanese dishes and local delicacies to exploring majestic dzongs, monasteries, and scenic valleys, this journey offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the Dragon Kingdom.

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Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrive at Paro international airport

You will land at Paro international Airport, after having experienced one of the most thrilling journeys of your lifetime – the flight to Paro, during which you experience a breath taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. The landing at Paro, considered one of the most challenging is an enthralling experience.
At the airport, you will be received by our company’s representatives. We will make a short stop to clear your jet lag for a Bhutanese tea (Suja), which comprises Bhutanese tea leaves, salt and butter. After this, you will begin a sojourn of Paro valley, which includes visits to the National Museum of Bhutan and Paro Rinpong Fortress.
Lunch will then be served at a local hotel and you can choose Bhutanese delicacies, such as ema datsi (chilly and cheese), beef/yak pa (roasted beef or yak), beef/yak curry, roasted pig or pig curry. Roasted chicken or chicken curry can be served, too. Soup made from boiled bones and added spices, such as coriander is also a delicacy. Paro is Bhutan’s rice bowl and so you can choose between a variety of rice, including red rice, white ones etc. You will be served Bhutanese curd along with the meal.
After lunch, you will have free time to explore Paro town at your own pace and sample some local delicacies. In the evening, we will visit a traditional farmhouse for dinner, where you can enjoy and help yourself to ara, the locally brewed rice wine.

Day 02:

Paro – Haa

During breakfast you will be served Bhutanese tea and “desi”, rice with butter, sugar and other ingredients such as cardamom. Another alternative can be “shamday”, rice mixed with minced meat and spices. You can also taste “Thub”, porridge made of rice mixed with pepper. If you do not want hot (spicy) dishes, alterations can be made.

scenic icon bhutan

After breakfast, we begin our journey to Haa and cross Chelela (Pass), Bhutan’s highest road point at an altitude of about 4,000 meters. The flora and fauna of the area will make your drive exciting.
Haa is famous for its Hoentoe, aromatic buckwheat dumplings stuffed with turnip, greens, datsi (cheese), spin- ach and other ingredients. This is a dish that the people of Haa Valley serve when they celebrate a festival called as Lomba, the region’s New Year. Other than this, you can taste common Bhutanese dishes served with rice, such as pork, chicken, beef, yak and even fish delicacies. Another common dish is “Momo,” dumplings stuffed either with meat or cheese. We will visit regions of importance in Haa, such as the abode of Aap Chundu (protecting deity of the region.) We can feast on the valleys beauty, before retiring for the day.
Night halt in hotel.

Day 03:

Haa to Thimphu

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Haa to Thimphu through thick pine forests and beautiful mountain landscapes. En route, we will stop for lunch at a restaurant serving Indian cuisine, which is widely enjoyed and popular in Bhutan.

bhutan cuisine

Upon arrival in Thimphu, we will begin with sightseeing visits including the Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and Buddha Point for panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. In the evening, enjoy the stunning night view of Tashichho Dzong illuminated against the sky. If you wish, we can also visit a local karaoke lounge to experience Thimphu’s light nightlife and enjoy some singing.
Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 04:

Thimphu – Punakha/Wangdue

Before we head to Punakha today, we will visit some of the iconic locations in Thimphu including the Takin Preserve, the home of National Animal of Bhutan, Paper Factory and the Simply Bhutan. Your journey to Punakha, which is about 3 hours, will then begin. In about 45 minutes, you will reach the Dochula Pass (3,100m), from where visitors on a clear day can have a breathtaking glimpse of the eastern Himalayan range that consists of snow-capped peaks with elevations ranging from 6000m to 7554m.

dochula pass

Apart from this, the 108 stupas (chortens) at Dochula pass add to the beauty of the pass. The Pass is also exotic in flora and fauna. Before reaching Punakha/Wangdue, you will encounter several stalls on the way selling vegetables and Wang- duephodrang district’s specialty, locally called as “Maykhu”. This resembles a pancake and is made from beaten rice.
Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and is still home of the Chief Abbot during the winter months.
Punakha Dzong (Fortress), built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, stands like a giant ship on an ocean from afar. Build at the confluence of two rivers, Pho Chhu (male river) and Mo Chhu (female river). The Dzong is an epitome of Bhutanese architecture.
Night halt will be at a hotel in Punakha

Day 05:

Punakha – Bumthang

After an early breakfast, we travel east crossing Pepela (Pass), traditionally the boundary between eastern and western Bhutan. We will stop for lunch at Chendebji, where a stupa resembling the one in Kathmandu stands. In what will be a buffet lunch, you will be served all dishes common in Bhutan, including the “Goep”(Tripe). Like most other meat dishes, it is cooked with plenty of spices, including chilies.
En-route, we will visit Trongsa Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most historical fortresses, from where the unification of Bhutan surfaced. We will also visit the Ta Dzong, formerly a watch tower.

trongsa dzong view

Upon arrival at Bumthang, we will move into a hotel and proceed for dinner.
Bumthang is Bhutan’s premier producer of buckwheat and thus, the district has a couple of special dishes made from buckwheat. The most famous include, “Puta”, which is served in the form of noodles. Curd is usually served with the dish.
Another specialty is “Khuli”, Buckwheat pancakes, which is often served as an alternative to rice, along with ema-datsi.
During dinner, you can have a taste of these dishes.

Day 06:

Bumthang halt

Just as rice was and still is the staple food of western Bhutan, maize is associated with eastern Bhutan. Most families of eastern Bhutan dry corn kernels in bamboo shoots and then ground it coarsely to make ‘Kharang’, which is mixed with rice and served with curry. Kharang is a dish that is recom- mended for diabetic patients.
A derivative of “Kharang” is “Kharang Bokpi,” flour that is produced during the making of “Kharang.” From Kharang Bokpi, one can prepare a special porridge called as “Yomri.” This is served especially as breakfast and as a dish for the sick who cannot take in solid food. One can also mix rice with the dish.
You can try this dish during breakfast.
After breakfast you can explore Bumthang valley, a blend of the abstract and concrete with innumerable legends surrounding the area.
You will be visiting Kurje Lhakhang where the Great Indian Saint Guru Padsambhava subdued a local demon and left his body imprint on a rock. The other is Jamphel lhakhang, which was built in the 7th century by Songsten Goembo, the Tibetan Buddhist King. Jakar Dzong (the fortress of white bird) built in the 17th century by Tenzin Rabgay (the fourth Desi) is another famous landmark.
You will also be visiting, Tamshing lhakhang built in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa (the founder of religious treasures). Kunchosum lhakhang and Membertsho (the flaming lake) are other places. Legend has it that Pema Lingpa discovered several religious text from the lake.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant, where you will find other special dishes of the east. One is the “Bokpi,” flour smashed and then cooked and fried for a few minutes. Based on the ingredient, you can have “Kharang Bokpi”, a corn derivative; “Khu Bokpi”, rice derivate and those made from buckwheat and even wheat. These are served as alternatives to rice, along with curry.
Another dish is the “Bathu,” a semi-porridge consisting of small flour dumplings mixed and cooked in water consisting of bones. The flavor coming out of the bones make this disk special. Spices are also mixed and this dish is served especially when the weather is cold. It warms up the body.
During lunch, you can try out these dishes, too.
After lunch visit the cheese factory and take a stroll of Bumthang town.

Day 07:

Bumthang – Punakha

After breakfast, begin your scenic drive from Bumthang to Punakha (approximately 6 hours). The journey takes you across mountain passes and through lush valleys, offering beautiful views of forests, rivers, and traditional villages along the way. Upon arrival in Punakha, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 08:

Punakha- Paro

After breakfast, visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Mad Monk, Drukpa Kuenley. Later, take a short walk across the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest in Bhutan, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding valley. The order of the actitvies cab be arranged based on the location of the accommodation. After the visits, drive to Paro, we will try Malaysian Dishes today at Asian Fusion Flavour and check in to your hotel for the night.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 09:

Tigers Nest Climb

After an early breakfast, embark on the hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. The hike takes approximately 4–5 hours round trip and rewards you with breathtaking views and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. After descending we will have our lunch as Thai Dish & return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight in Paro.

Day 10:

Departure

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

Tashi delek! That’s if for your Bhutanese Culinary Adventure!

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 10 Days

Trip Price 2335

Single Supplement 378

Districts Paro, Haa, Thimphu, Punakha/Wangdue, Bumthang

Accomodation Hotels and traditional guesthouses

Difficulty: Medium

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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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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.
  
 
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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   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! 🙏🙏
  
 
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   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