Languages
Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects
Currency
Ngultrum & Rupee
Time Difference (GMT) + 5 hour
Climate & average temperaturesTropical in southern plains; cool winters & hot summers in central valleys; severe winters & cool summers in Himalayas
AirlinesJet Airways, Virgin Atlantic, British Airways
Flight time from UK
10 1/2 hours
Visa requirementsRequired by UK passport holders
Health requirementsContact your GP for information
Hidden between India and Tibet, in the Eastern Himalayas lies the unspoilt 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', The Kingdom of Bhutan. For years its rulers have maintained a policy of isolation which has successfully preserved a way of life. Deep valleys and ravines separate colourful, lofty villages where the strong and calm people of Bhutan continue to live a life rich in Buddhist religion and social traditions which have remained untouched for centuries.
A visit to this enriching land is not to be missed, from colourful tsechus, or festivals and ancient temples to mountain biking and Himalayan trekking. This country has something to offer all ages and we can make a tailor made holiday in Bhutan to suit all needs.
Within the Bhutanese valleys lie a series of unique lodges. Amankora, meaning peace and pilgrimage, is a network of five lodges located in important and scenic valleys in western and central Bhutan, each with its own character and setting. Uma Paro, located in the Paro valley, and Taj Tashi, in the capital Thimpu, also offer contrasting styles, luxury spas, fantastic dining options and local sites and activities. A tour in Bhutan between any of these luxury lodges and hotels offers a unique insight into the last surviving Himalayan Buddhist kingdom.
Overlooking ancient fortresses of Paro and Mount Jhomolhari
24 suites, Trekking, mountain biking, yoga & archery
A Himalayan retreat in Paro that fuses clean-lined modernism and indigenous detailing
34 rooms, 2 suites, Mountain biking, walking & archery, 9 villas
Set in a blue pine forest in the upper reaches of the Motithang region of Thimphu Valley
16 suites, Hiking, archery, Monastery & temple visits, Spa
Fabulous lodge accessed via a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River in Punakha
8 suites, Archery, hiking & guided walks, Spa
In the picturesque but little-visited Phobjikha Valley near the village of Gangtey
8 suites, Hiking, archery, mountain biking & visits to the Black Crane Research Centre, Spa
Adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals and situated in the centre of Thimphu
57 rooms, 9 suites, Religious tours, visit to Folk Heritage Museum & National Textile Museum, Spa
Bumthang sits in the Chokhor valley, an idyllic, restful location sure to relax and sooth the mind
16 suites, Trekking, archery & cultural visits, Fishing (advance notice required), Spa
Uma by COMO, Punakha is an intimate, luxury lodge located at the far western end of the lush Punakha Valley in Bhutan.
9 deluxe valley view rooms, Archery, biking, 1 restaurant & private dining, 2 villas, Spa
8 Properties Listed