8 Days Bhutan Amankora Tour. The 8-day Bhutan Amankora Tour – Quest for Happiness is a transformative journey designed to explore Bhutan’s serene landscapes, cultural wonders, and spiritual heritage. With stays in Amankora’s luxurious lodges across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang valleys, this tour weaves together an authentic Bhutanese experience with modern comfort. Embracing Bhutan’s profound focus on Gross National Happiness, the tour invites you to connect with local traditions, visit sacred monasteries, and enjoy Bhutan’s natural beauty.

This package offers an exclusive luxury tour with a special opportunity: pay for 5 nights and enjoy a 7-night stay across all Amankora lodges.

Why Choose the Quest for Happiness Tour?

8 Days Bhutan Amankora Tour. This tour offers a unique blend of spiritual exploration, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, all guided by Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Amankora’s exclusive lodges and personalized experiences provide a tranquil sanctuary at the end of each day’s journey, making it an ideal escape for those seeking a meaningful connection to Bhutan’s way of life. Perfect for travellers who wish to go beyond traditional sightseeing and embrace the deeper values and traditions that make Bhutan a true land of happiness.

Package Validity for Quest for Happiness

The Quest for Happiness Package is available only during select periods and applies exclusively to groups of up to 4 guests (FITs). The valid dates are as follows:

2024: December 1 to December 31
2025: January 1 to March 10, May 1 to August 31, and December 1 to December 31
2026: January 1 to March 10

Guidelines for the Travelers

Booking and Confirmation

Early Reservation: It is recommended to book at least 2-3 months in advance, as Amankora’s lodges have limited capacity.
Deposit: A deposit is required when booking, with the balance due before arrival.
Visa: All travellers to Bhutan require a visa. The tour operator arranges the visa application.

Travel Insurance

It is highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance, covering cancellations, medical emergencies, and trip disruptions.

Health Considerations

Bhutan is located at high altitudes, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before travelling.
Carry medications for common travel ailments, and drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.

Packing Tips

Clothing: Pack lightweight clothing for warmer days and warm layers for cool evenings. Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking are essential.
Essentials: Don’t forget personal items like toiletries, a camera for photography, and any medications.

When to Visit for the 8 Days Amankora Tour – Quest for Happiness?

The best times to travel for the 8-Day Bhutan Amankora Tour – Quest for Happiness are Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). These seasons offer:

Comfortable Weather: Perfect temperatures for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying Bhutan’s scenic beauty.
Cultural Festivals: Enjoy immersive cultural experiences, such as Paro Tsechu and Thimphu Tsechu, offering a chance to witness traditional Bhutanese mask dances, religious rituals, and performances.
Stunning Landscapes: With clear skies and vibrant colours, these seasons provide unparalleled opportunities for photography and outdoor adventures.

Why These Seasons Are Perfect for the Amankora Tour?

Luxury Experience: Amankora’s exclusive lodges offer the highest comfort, and the moderate temperatures of Spring and Autumn make it the ideal time to relax and enjoy wellness treatments, yoga, and spa services in peace.
Scenic Views: Clear skies and the absence of monsoon rains provide ideal conditions for visiting Bhutan’s iconic monasteries and landmarks, such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Dochula Pass.
Cultural Engagement: The festivals during these seasons will deepen your connection with Bhutan’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, making it a truly transformative experience.

The Most Recommended one

For a luxury cultural experience in Bhutan, the best time to visit for the 8 Days Amankora Tour – Quest for Happiness is during Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November). These seasons offer the most balanced weather, clear skies, vibrant landscapes, and cultural immersion, ensuring a fulfilling and comfortable tour experience.

Signature Experiences and Unique Highlights

Private Ceremonies and Monastic Blessings: Special access to Bhutanese monks for blessings, guided meditation, and personal prayers for happiness.
Exclusive Wellness Treatments: Traditional hot stone baths, herbal massages, and custom-designed wellness rituals at each lodge.
Immersive Nature Experiences: Guided hikes, forest bathing, and valley explorations to experience Bhutan’s pristine landscapes.
Cultural Immersion: Visits to local monasteries, and traditional villages, and interactions with Bhutanese artisans, adding depth to your understanding of Bhutanese culture.

Luxury Accommodations at Amankora Lodges

Amankora offers five lodges located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang. Each lodge is designed to reflect Bhutanese architecture and culture while providing the utmost luxury. All lodges feature:

Spacious Suites with panoramic views
Spa and wellness centres offering traditional Bhutanese therapies, hot stone baths, yoga, and meditation sessions
Gourmet Dining with Bhutanese and international cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients
Personalized Service to cater to every guest’s needs

Tour Customization for 8 Days Amankora Journey:

This tour can be customized to suit your preferences, including additional cultural experiences, wellness treatments, or more time in specific locations.
You can also opt for special activities like private dining experiences, traditional Bhutanese archery sessions, or cooking classes.

Additional Notes:

Private Guides and Drivers: The tour includes private, experienced guides who will provide insights into Bhutan’s rich history, culture, and spiritual practices.
Exclusive Experiences: Enjoy customized experiences tailored to your interests, such as meditation sessions, nature walks, and luxury wellness treatments.

By the end of this 8-day Bhutan Amankora Tour – Quest for Happiness, you will not only have experienced the unparalleled beauty of Bhutan but also gained a deeper understanding of its culture, traditions, and spiritual heritage, all while enjoying the finest accommodations and services.

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusion / Exclusion

FAQs

Hotels

Quest for Happiness Overview

Tour Outline

Day 01. Arrival at Paro Airport and Transfer to Thimphu
Day 02. Thimphu Sightseeing
Day 03. Thimphu to Gangtey
Day 04. Gangtey to Punakha
Day 05. Punakha Sightseeing
Day 06. Punakha to Paro via Thimphu
Day 07. Excursion to Taktshang
Day 08. Drop to Airport and See Off

Similar Sightseeing and Tour

Amankora Quest for Happiness Package

Experience exclusive Amankora Luxury Tour
Hike to Tigers Nest Monastery
Photo Session at Dochula and Phobjikha Valley
Explore Thimphu, Gangtey, Paro and Punkha

Day 01 :

Arrival at Paro Airport and Transfer to Thimphu

Upon arrival, a representative from Tour Bhutan (guide and driver) will warmly greet you at the airport with a traditional white scarf and a welcome cake. From there, begin your journey to Thimphu via Chudzom, with a stop at Tachog Lhakhang, a historic temple built in 1420 by Drubthob Thangtong Gyalpo. Continue to your hotel for lunch, where you can also check in and relax. Afterward, visit the newly opened Changyul Park, and in the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Thimphu Town. Dinner will be served at Amankora Thimphu.

Day 02 :

Thimphu Sightseeing

Start your day with a visit to the Buddha Dordenma, Bhutan’s largest statue, followed by a trip to the Takin Preserve. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to Sangaygang Viewpoint for stunning views of the Thimphu Valley. Lunch will be at Amankora. Afterward, head to Simply Bhutan, where you can enjoy live performances of traditional Bhutanese dances and immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture. Later, browse the authentic craft bazaar for unique souvenirs. Dinner will be served at Amankora.

Day 03 :

Thimphu to Gangtey

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Gangtey via Dochula Pass. Pause at Dochula to stroll and capture stunning views, and enjoy tea and snacks at the Druk Wangyal Cafe. Along the way, the Amankora team will provide a picnic lunch in Punakha. Before checking in at your hotel, visit Gangtey Monastery for a spiritual blessing. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Day 04 :

Gangtey to Punakha

Before proceeding to Punakha, visit the Black-Necked Crane Centre, home to the annual Black-Necked Crane Festival. You'll have a private room where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Phobjikha Valley and spot black-necked cranes with the help of binoculars. Afterward, explore the lush green valley, also known as the Valley of the Cranes. Following lunch, drive to Punakha, passing by Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll around Khuruthang town and Kaja Throm along the Puna Tsang Chhu river. Dinner will be served at Punakha Aman.

Day 05 :

Punakha Sightseeing

Start your day early with a hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which takes about an hour and a half to reach the summit. Afterwards, visit the longest suspension bridge, followed by a tour of Punakha Dzong, a must-see for visitors in Punakha. After lunch, drive to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

Day 06 :

Punakha to Paro via Thimphu

After breakfast, check out from Punakha Amankora and begin your journey to Paro via Thimphu. If you’d like, stop at Dochula for some tea and snacks. Before heading to Amankora Thimphu for lunch, visit the Postal Museum, where you can create your own stamps. After lunch, continue your drive to Paro. Upon arrival, explore Paro Ta Dzong and then visit Paro Rinpung Dzong. Dinner will be served at Paro Amankora.

Day 07 :

Excursion to Taktshang

The excursion to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, situated 3,120 meters (10,200 feet) above the Paro Valley, is one of Bhutan’s most iconic experiences. Also known as Taktsang, this sacred site is celebrated for its breathtaking views and spiritual significance.

Start your day by departing from your hotel in Paro and driving to the trailhead. Begin your hike along the well-marked trail, which takes approximately 3.5 hours through lush forests. Pause along the way to take in the stunning views of the valley. Upon reaching the monastery, explore its beautiful temples and intricate murals while learning about its rich history, including the legend of Guru Padmasambhava.

Enjoy a packed lunch or a meal at a cafe near Taktsang with picturesque views. After your visit, hike back down the trail, relishing the scenery and capturing memorable photos. Finally, return to your hotel in Paro to relax with a traditional hot stone bath and enjoy dinner.

Day 08 :

Drop to Airport and See Off

This concludes the 8 Days Bhutan Amankora Tour. Bid farewell to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, and we wish you all the best on your onward journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is included in the 8 Days Bhutan Amankora Tour?

The tour includes accommodations at Amankora lodges, all meals, guided tours and excursions, entrance fees to attractions, transportation during the tour, and the services of a professional guide and driver.

What is the best time to visit Bhutan?

The best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is particularly beautiful.

What should I pack for the tour?

Pack comfortable clothing suitable for hiking, layers for changing weather conditions, sturdy walking shoes, and any personal items you may need. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning scenery!

Are there any altitude considerations?

Yes, some locations, including Tiger’s Nest Monastery, are at high altitudes. It’s essential to acclimatize and stay hydrated. Consult your doctor before traveling if you have concerns about altitude sickness.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, please inform us of any dietary restrictions or preferences at the time of booking, and we will do our best to accommodate them during the tour.

What type of transportation is used during the tour?

Transportation is provided in comfortable, private vehicles with experienced drivers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout your trip.

How do I book the tour?

You can book the tour by contacting us directly through our website or customer service. A deposit may be required to secure your reservation.