The Great Outdoors
If there is one thing Bhutan is celebrated for it is the preservation of nature and biodiversity. As the only carbon negative nation and with a minimum 60% forest cover that is built into the constitution, this is a country where you are not just a visitor but a witness to a living, breathing and thriving ecosystem.
Whether you want to summit serene Himalayan peaks, breathe in the purest air, or discover hundreds of endangered species under protection- Bhutan offers a sanctuary unlike any other. We explore the best ways to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Let us know which adventures speak to you, and we will be happy to curate your unforgettable journey.
Cycling
From navigating high-altitude suspension bridges to descending winding mountain trails that pass isolated temples perched on jagged ridges, cycling in Bhutan is an experience of a lifetime. The natural landscape offers a diverse range of terrain, from smooth, paved valley roads to grueling off-road challenges that test the most seasoned riders.
It is no surprise that cycling is becoming one of the most popular ways to experience the kingdom. Thrill-seekers can tailor their tours to include steep mountain passes, while those seeking a more leisurely pace can enjoy the rolling hills of the central valleys. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, be sure to check out our signature “Wine and Cycling Tour”.
Camping
With its sprawling wilderness and crystal-clear waters, Bhutan is the ultimate camping destination. Camping allows nature lovers to leave urban jungles behind and recalibrate to the rhythms of the forest. During their camping trip, visitors can enjoy a hearty meal beneath the stars and experience the authentic essence of Bhutan.
Whether you prefer the rugged authenticity of traditional mountain camping or the refined comfort of luxury villa tents nestled in fragrant pine forests, we provide an experience that connects you deeply to the land. Beyond the campfire, your days can be filled with hiking, rafting, or simply enjoying a hearty meal prepared with local ingredients.
Bird-Watching
Bhutan is an ornithologist’s paradise. Densely covered in lush forests and protected habitats, the country currently boasts an impressive 754 bird species. Bird lovers will be mesmerized by the sight of these feathered creatures in their pristine natural habitats, thriving within a network of protected areas and biological corridors. Bhutan is one of the few places on earth where you can observe the White-bellied Heron, one of the 50 rarest birds in the world.
The peak season for birding activities is from March through May. While some passionate birders venture into the deep, dense jungles of the east, others explore the high-altitude wetlands of the north.
For those visiting Bhutan in the winter, a highlight of your trip will be a visit to Phobjikha valley to see the Black-necked Crane Festival. This threatened species is only found in parts of China, India and Bhutan. To learn more about how we celebrate these avian visitors, explore our “Fantastic Festivals” section.
Trekking
Bhutan remains one of the world’s premier trekking destinations. Here, you can traverse glacial rivers, encounter nomadic highlanders, and trek to the base of Gangkhar Puensum- the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. We categorize our treks into three levels: easy, medium, and hard, ensuring there is a trail for every aptitude.
For the elite adventurer, we offer the legendary Snowman Trek. Widely considered the toughest trek on the planet, this 25-day odyssey crosses 13 mountain passes (many higher than 5,000 meters) and ventures into the most remote corners of northern Bhutan.
For those seeking something less strenuous but equally beautiful, the Druk Path or the Bumthang Cultural Trek provide deep immersion into our history and landscape without the month-long commitment. Contact us to include a trek as part of your itinerary to Bhutan.
Hiking
If an overnight trek feels too daunting, Bhutan’s myriad of short, scenic hikes provides a perfect taste of the outdoors. These gentler trails can typically be completed within a few hours, yet they lead to some of the most profound pilgrimage sites and panoramic viewpoints in the country.
Trails such as the walk from Changangkha to Buddha Point in Thimphu offer easy-to-moderate paths with sweeping views of the capital below. These hikes are often the best way to spot local flora, such as the vibrant rhododendron forests, and interact with monks or farmers going about their daily lives. We offer hiking options as part of our 7, 14 and 21 day itineraries.
Rafting
The glacial waters of the Himalayas provide Bhutan with a magnificent network of rivers, perfect for thrilling rafting and kayaking adventures. Don your helmet and life jacket to traverse the emerald waters of the Mo Chhu (female river) or the more turbulent Pho Chhu (male river) in Punakha.
Rafting in Bhutan is a sensory delight, offering unique perspectives of the ancient Dzongs and terraced paddies from the water. Whether you are looking to beat the summer heat or get your blood pumping in the cooler seasons, we offer options for both communal rafting groups and technical solo kayaking. Rafting is a highlight of our 7, 8, 14, and 19-day itineraries.
Helicopter Rides
Imagine seeing “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” from a birds-eye view. The traditional houses appear like intricate miniatures and the winding rivers look like silver threads woven through the valleys. The Royal Bhutan Helicopter Service now makes this possible, offering tours that reveal Bhutan as few have ever seen it.
Sit back and enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, Taktsang Monastery and Drugyel Dzong. Let us know if you want to experience the awe-inspiring views for yourself and we will be happy to curate your itinerary accordingly.
