Tropical Expedition
An offbeat itinerary into Bhutan's lesser-visited subtropical south — humid lowland forests, border towns and a striking contrast to the alpine north.
An offbeat itinerary into Bhutan's lesser-visited subtropical south — humid lowland forests, border towns and tropical gardens — offering a striking contrast to the alpine north for travellers seeking a different side of the Kingdom.
Ideal for: Offbeat travellers wanting to see beyond the typical alpine circuit
- One of the few itineraries to include Phuentsholing in southern Bhutan
- Visits the Crocodile Breeding Centre at Phuentsholing
- Traverses dramatic climatic transitions from alpine to subtropical zones
- Kharbandi Monastery's tropical gardens overlooking the southern plains
- Scenic descent and ascent drives through Bhutan's foothill forests
The journey
Subtropical Southern Bhutan — a day-by-day plan operated by our licensed guides, with overnight stops, drive times and highlights confirmed before you travel.
Arrival in Paro — transfer to Thimphu
Welcome at Paro International Airport and drive to Thimphu. Evening at leisure with a Bhutanese welcome dinner. Overnight in Thimphu.
Thimphu — descent to Phuentsholing
Long, scenic descent through foothill forest as the climate shifts from temperate to subtropical. Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Phuentsholing & southern foothills
Kharbandi Monastery gardens overlooking the southern plains, the Crocodile Breeding Centre and the Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang. Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Phuentsholing — Punakha
Return ascent through central Bhutan, arriving in the Punakha valley by evening. Overnight in Punakha.
Punakha — Paro
Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang in the morning, then a scenic drive back to Paro. Afternoon at leisure in Paro town. Overnight in Paro.
Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport with a farewell keepsake from Golden Takin Holidays.
Tropical Expedition
Full package sheet — itinerary, inclusions and pricing notes. Tap to enlarge.
Included
Excluded
- Sustainable Development Fee and visa processing are handled by our TCB-licensed desk.
- Private vehicle, fuel, driver and a licensed English-speaking guide throughout.
- Best seasons: March–May and September–November; winter departures on request.
- Every itinerary is customisable — dates, hotels, pace and add-on days.