Bhutan Marathon & Cultural Discovery

The Bhutan Marathon & Cultural Discovery Tour is an exhilarating 8-day, 7-night adventure that combines the excitement of the Bhutan International Marathon with an enriching cultural journey. Explore Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage as you visit iconic sites such as the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the majestic Punakha Dzong, and the vibrant markets of Thimphu. As you navigate stunning landscapes, take part in the marathon, running through serene valleys and charming villages. This adventure is ideal for those seeking both the thrill of sport and a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s unique and beautiful culture.

Day 1: Arrival at Paro and Travel to Thimphu
  • Arrival at Paro International Airport: Arrive at Bhutan’s sole international airport in Paro, renowned for its breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas.
  • Transfer to Thimphu (1-hour drive): After completing immigration formalities, embark on a scenic drive to the capital city of Thimphu.
  • Thimphu sightseeing:
    • Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of the Third King, this chorten is one of the capital’s most iconic monuments and a very popular place of worship.
    • Tashichho Dzong: As the administrative and religious center of Bhutan, Tashichho Dzong serves as the office of the King and the summer residence of the Central Monk Body, and hosts the vibrant Thimphu Tshechu festival each fall.
    • Buddha Dordenma Statue: This colossal statue majestically overlooking the valley offers panoramic views and a tranquil aura for reverence and contemplation.
Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing Continues
  • Folk Heritage Museum: Set inside a 19th century farmhouse, this museum offers visitors remarkable glimpses into the material culture and way of life in rural Bhutan.
  • National Library of Bhutan: This library is home to ancient manuscripts and Buddhist texts, consisting of long unbound pages stacked between wooden plates and wrapped in cloth.
  • Simply Bhutan Museum: An interactive ‘living’ museum that offers a quick introduction to various aspects of traditional life in Bhutan, including a chance to dress up in traditional clothes and try out archery, Bhutan’s national sport.
  • Motithang Takin Preserve: An enchanting wildlife reserve dedicated to the takin, Bhutan’s national animal.
  • Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar: Aligned neatly below Norzin Lam, Thimphu’s bustling main street, this marketplace beckons with an array of authentic Bhutanese art and craft products sourced primarily from rural Bhutan.
  Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
  • Drive to Punakha (2.5 hours): Make your way east to Punakha and along the way, stop at the Dochula Pass (3,150 meters) to take in stunning panoramic vistas of the Himalayas. The serene setting is enhanced by the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens (stupas), making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of the landscape.
  • Punakha sightseeing:
    • Punakha Dzong: Renowned as the most majestic and photogenic of Bhutan’s ancient fortresses, the Punakha Dzong has witnessed significant moments in history, including the Royal Wedding of 2011 and the historic coronation of the First King in 1907.
    • Punakha Suspension Bridge: Suspended high above the flowing waters of Pho Chhu, this bridge boasts a length of 160 m and is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, offering picturesque views.
Overnight at hotel in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha Sightseeing and Marathon Preparations
  • Chimi Lhakhang: A short hike through rice fields leads to the ‘Fertility Temple,’ which is renowned for its fertility inducing powers and attracts numerous childless local as well as foreign couples seeking fertility blessings.
  • Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: Constructed as a Buddhist college, this temple houses 120 nuns and offers breathtaking views of the Punakha valley.
  • Race Briefing and Kit Collection: After lunch, attend the Bhutan International Marathon race briefing and collect your race kit for the big day.
Overnight at hotel in Punakha.
Day 5: Race Day – Bhutan International Marathon
  • Race Participation: Immerse yourself in the memorable Bhutan International Marathon, where runners navigate routes that wind through breathtaking landscapes, including terraced paddy fields, traditional villages, and the banks of serene rivers. The marathon is more than just a race; it is an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s rich heritage, stunning natural beauty, and the warm hospitality of its people. Plus, the event emphasizes sustainability and promoting healthy lifestyles within the community. Overall, it is a memorable experience for runners and spectators alike.
  • Relax and Recover: After the race, take time to unwind and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Punakha’s surroundings.
Overnight at hotel in Punakha.
Day 6: Punakha to Paro and Sightseeing
  • Drive to Paro (4 hours): After breakfast, retrace your steps back to Paro, driving by beautiful landscapes and stopping for refreshments along the way.
  • Paro Sightseeing:
    • National Museum of Bhutan: Once a vigilant watchtower safeguarding Rinpung Dzong, the Ta Dzong has been beautifully transformed into the National Museum of Bhutan and showcases captivating exhibits that celebrate the country’s rich culture, art, and history.
    • Rinpung Dzong: Paro’s impressive fortress holds the country’s most popular religious festival known as the Paro Tshechu each spring.
    • Kyichu Lhakhang: Legend has it that this temple, which is one of the oldest in Bhutan, was built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 659 A.D. as part of a chain of 108 temples simultaneously built in one day to pin down an evil demoness that lay over the Himalayan region.
Overnight at hotel in Paro.
Day 7: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery)
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery: This architectural marvel clings precariously to a sheer cliff, securing its place as Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious site. The hike from the base of the mountain up to the temple takes about 2-3 hours. No sojourn in Bhutan can be considered complete without paying homage to this extraordinary sanctuary that beckons both the faithful and curious travelers alike.
  • Relax and Explore Paro Town: In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Paro town, savor a traditional Bhutanese dinner, or browse for unique souvenirs to take home.
  • Traditional Hot Stone Bath: End your day with a hot stone bath to soothe your muscles from the day’s hike and enhance your overall wellbeing. This therapeutic experience uses fire-roasted river stones to heat fresh river water infused with fragrant Artemisia leaves.
Overnight at hotel in Paro.
Day 8: Departure
  • After breakfast transfer to Paro International Airport for flight to onward destination.
Package Tour Cost
  • Solo traveler – US$ 350 per night x 7 nights x 1 pax = US$ 2,450
  • Group of 2 pax – US$ 300 per night x 7 nights x 2 pax = US$ 4,200 (on twin room sharing basis)

The daily package includes the following:

  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) charged by the government of Bhutan of US$ 100 per person per night, which is utilized for projects that promote Bhutan’s economic, social, environmental, and cultural development
  • Accommodation in government certified 3-star hotel
  • All meals
  • A licensed Bhutanese tour guide
  • All internal transport, including airport transfers
  • All entry fees for monuments, museums, and festivals
  • Bottled water during the entire trip

The daily package excludes the following:

  • Bhutan visa fee of US$ 40 per person
  • External and internal flights; we can arrange incoming and outgoing flights at cost
  • 4 & 5-star accommodation, which will require an additional premium
  • Travel insurance premium
  • Payment for expenses of personal nature, i.e.: mini-bar, telephone and internet charges, laundry, tips, donations, etc.
  • Costs incurred due to political unrest, strikes, mishaps, etc.
  • Registration fee for the Bhutan International Marathon
  • International registration fee for the Bhutan International Marathon is US$ 175 per runner for the full-marathon and US$ 125 per runner for the half-marathon. Follow this link for registration and fee payment: https://bhutaninternationalmarathon.com/event-info/

  • Once the travel is confirmed, payment must be made in US Dollars and in full prior to arrival in Bhutan.

YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

In place of a dedicated concierge for this, “Once in a lifetime experience”, we have a pre-travel advisor available. The advisor can work with you to determine your best options for excursions, transportation to and from the experience destination, and other information to make your planning easier.

  • (+975) - 77206162
  • geobhutantravels@gmail.com

Top 5 Unforgettable Experiences

  • Embark on a spiritual and physical journey by hiking to Paro Taktsang, Bhutan’s iconic cliffside monastery, perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley.

  • Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery at the confluence of two rivers, showcasing Bhutan’s architectural and religious legacy.

  • Soak in panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and 108 chortens at the breathtaking Dochula Pass.

  • Discover Thimphu’s cultural landmarks, including the towering Buddha Dordenma, the National Memorial Chorten, and traditional Bhutanese arts at the Institute for Zorig Chusum.

  • Experience the thrill of walking across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, offering stunning views of the lush Punakha Valley and the Mo Chhu River.

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Our Happy Clients!

"Bhutan was absolutely magical! The breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality made it unforgettable. Thanks to Geo Bhutan Travels for a seamless, enriching experience!"​
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"The perfect blend of culture and adventure. Bhutan’s beauty is beyond words, and Geo Bhutan Travels ensured every moment was stress-free and memorable!"
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"Bhutan exceeded all expectations! Stunning views, spiritual temples, and excellent guidance from Geo Bhutan Travels. A trip of a lifetime—highly recommended!"
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