Join Food I Am, your Culinary & Cultural Specialists, for an extraordinary journey through the remarkable kingdom of Bhutan.
Often referred to as the “Last Shangri-La,” Bhutan has been protected by the towering Himalayas, allowing its rich culture and traditions to remain deeply intact. Guided by the Drukpa Kagyupa school of Mahayana Buddhism and shaped by centuries of thoughtful preservation, Bhutan offers a rare opportunity to experience a living spiritual culture in one of the world’s most pristine environments.
Our carefully curated itinerary takes you from the capital of Thimphu to the fertile valleys of Punakha and the dramatic landscapes of Paro. You will explore ancient dzongs (fortresses), monasteries and temples, walk beneath prayer-flag lined ridges, and stand before some of the Himalayas’ most sacred peaks — including the legendary Tiger’s Nest monastery.
While Bhutan may not be widely known as a foodie destination, food remains at the heart of our travels. Throughout this journey, you will discover traditional Bhutanese cuisine shaped by the Himalayan landscape — from farmhouse meals and suja (butter tea) shared with locals, to visits to farmers’ markets, artisanal breweries and tastings of local cheeses. Expect bold flavours, warming spices and the simplicity that defines Bhutanese hospitality.
Throughout your journey, you will be in the expert and caring hands of our Bhutanese guide, Karma, who will look after you like family. With deep local knowledge and genuine warmth, Karma will open doors to meaningful cultural exchanges and ensure your experience is both seamless and deeply personal.
Bhutan’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness over GDP underpins daily life, offering a perspective that is both grounding and inspiring.
If you prefer to travel independently at a time that suits you, we would be delighted to tailor this journey privately. Speak with our expert team and we will design a personalised Bhutan experience, carefully curated and fully supported from start to finish.
We invite you to experience this extraordinary destination with us, thoughtfully, respectfully and deliciously.
Tania Sibrey
Creator & Global Food Explorer, Food I Am Travel
FITNESS LEVEL
Generally, any reasonably fit person should be able to participate and fully enjoy all that the tours have to offer. You should be comfortable walking at a leisurely pace for up to two hours around towns and countryside, including on uneven ground such as cobblestones, stairs and through historical sites. Your tour may include some optional walks (typically 1-2 hours). You may opt out of any activity.
You need to be able to:
Any health issues, physical or mental or specific dietary allergies must be made known to Culinary Curious Travel Pty Ltd verbally and on the booking form so that Culinary Curious Travel Pty Ltd can access and if possible, assist and accommodate.
This tour includes the opportunity to do an OPTIONAL 2-3 hour hike and a hike to the Tigers Nest.
MINIMUM NUMBERS
FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AVAILABLE HERE
A monument built for world peace and dedicated to Bhutan's third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, it stands as both a memorial to the late King and a symbol of peace, continually circled by people reciting mantras and spinning prayer wheels.
Explore the Textile Museum, highlighting Bhutanese textiles as an art form.
A special visit to a traditional weaving village to witness the skilled weavers at work, creating exquisite textiles. We share stories and tea with local weaving families. This cultural experience fosters a deep appreciation for Bhutanese artistry and genuine connections with its people.
Gain insights into Buddhism and Bhutanese culture. You will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about philosophy, meditation and the monk's journey towards enlightenment. This exchange will foster introspection and understanding, leaving you with a profound sense of inner peace and a deep connection to Bhutan's spiritual heritage.
The magnificent Buddha Dordenma statue, an impressive 51 metre bronze statue of Shakyamuni, gilded in gold. Inside, 125,000 smaller bronze and gilded Buddha statues emanate an aura of peace and happiness.
Trashichhoe dzong (monastery), Bhutan's 'fortress of the glorious religion'. This historic site is both the centre of government and religion. Constructed in 1641 by Bhutan's unifier, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was later faithfully reconstructed in the 1960s using traditional Bhutanese techniques, without nails or architectural plans.
At Dochula Pass, explore the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 stupas arranged in three tiers, encircling the central main stupa.
Take a walk through the Phobjikha Valley and visit Gangtey Goemba, the largest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan, perched on a small hill in the Gangtey valley. The monastery is surrounded by a village inhabited by the families of the 140 Gomchens who care for it. You can witness a prayer ceremony at the monastery.
Punakha Dzong, known as the Palace of Great Happiness, constructed in 1637. This grand dzong served as both a religious and administrative centre, providing insights into Bhutan's rich culture.
Walk across Punakha Suspension Bridge, spanning 160 metres over the Mo Chu River. With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the river's roar below, it offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, beautifully located on a ridge surrounded by pine trees, with stunning views of Punakha and Wangdue valleys. This temple houses a 14-foot bronze statue and serves as a higher learning and meditation centre for nuns, offering not only religious training but also valuable life skills such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making, and thangkha painting.
At the monastery, you can experience a traditional blessing and butter lamp ceremony (optional), deeply rooted in Buddhist culture. Monks in vibrant robes recite powerful prayers, invoking blessings, protection and guidance. Lighting yak butter lamps symbolises wisdom and dispelling darkness, fostering enlightenment.
Experience the unique flavours of Bhutan at our cooking demonstration featuring authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Learn about the techniques and ingredients native to this Himalayan country, using locally sourced ingredients. From mastering the intricate techniques of making 'Ema Datshi', the country's famous spicy cheese and chilli dish, to creating delectable 'Momos', steamed dumplings filled with savoury fillings. Lunch, featuring the dishes prepared during class, will be served on the terrace overlooking the Mo Chhu River. You will cherish these recipes and memories long after your holiday has come to an end.
Paro Valley is a treasure trove of culture and natural beauty. At the northern end of the valley, Mount Chomolhari (7,314m) stands majestically, and its glacial waters flow through deep gorges to create the Paro River. The valley is also renowned for its terraced fields, producing the famous red rice.
A renowned Bhutanese monastery perched on a cliffside 900 metres above the Paro valley floor. The walk is 6.4km, approximately a 5 hour round trip, with stops along the way. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this sacred site, hence its name, 'Tiger's Nest'. This revered place is a must-visit for all Bhutanese, at least once in their lifetime.
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