Bhutan Hot Springs Trail
10 days · from US$3240 per person — all-inclusive: guide, transport, accommodation, meals, visa and SDF.
Discover Bhutan's natural hot springs (Tshachu), revered for centuries for their healing properties. Combine relaxation with culture in the pristine valleys of western Bhutan.
Highlights: Gasa Hot Springs · Punakha Tshachu · Traditional Healing · Mountain Views
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Arrive at Paro airport. Transfer to hotel and rest. Evening overview of Bhutan's hot spring culture. Bhutanese have used tshachu (hot springs) for centuries for healing, relaxation, and spiritual cleansing. Overnight: Paro
Day 2: Paro to Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu (1 hour). Visit key sights including Buddha Dordenma and National Memorial Chorten. Afternoon: Visit the National Traditional Medicine Hospital to learn about Sowa Rigpa (traditional Bhutanese medicine) and the role of hot springs in healing. Overnight: Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
Drive to Punakha (2-3 hours) via Dochula Pass with stunning Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong, the beautiful fortress at the confluence of two rivers. Evening: Experience Punakha Hot Stone Bath - stones heated in fire are placed in wooden tub with herbs and artemisia. The minerals release into the water for a therapeutic soak. Overnight: Punakha
Day 4: Punakha Exploration
Morning: Walk to Chimi Lhakhang fertility temple through rice paddies. Afternoon: Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten with valley views. Evening: Second hot stone bath session. Overnight: Punakha
Day 5: Punakha to Gasa
Drive to Gasa district (4-5 hours), home to Bhutan's most famous natural hot springs. The remote Gasa valley is pristine and less visited. Prepare for basic but comfortable accommodations. Evening: First soak at Gasa Tshachu - natural mineral hot springs with multiple pools at different temperatures. Overnight: Gasa
Day 6: Gasa Hot Springs Day
Full day relaxing at Gasa Tshachu. The springs have been used for centuries by Bhutanese seeking healing. Different pools have different temperatures and mineral compositions, believed to treat various ailments: skin conditions, arthritis, respiratory problems. In between soaks, explore Gasa Dzong and the small village. The area is surrounded by pristine forests and mountain views. Meet local pilgrims and patients spending weeks at the springs for healing. Overnight: Gasa
Day 7: Gasa Nature Walks
Morning: Gentle nature walk in surrounding forests. Gasa's pristine environment is home to diverse wildlife. Afternoon: Final hot spring sessions. Learn about traditional Bhutanese wellness practices from local healers. Overnight: Gasa
Day 8: Gasa to Phobjikha
Drive to Phobjikha valley (4-5 hours), the winter home of black-necked cranes. Walk the Gangtey Nature Trail through the glacial valley. Visit Gangtey Monastery. Overnight: Phobjikha
Day 9: Phobjikha to Paro
Drive to Paro (5-6 hours) via Dochula Pass. Farewell dinner reflecting on your wellness journey. Final hot stone bath experience at hotel. Overnight: Paro
Day 10: Departure
Morning at leisure. Transfer to airport. You leave Bhutan rejuvenated - having experienced the kingdom's traditional healing waters in pristine mountain settings. The combination of natural hot springs, clean air, and peaceful environment creates profound relaxation. Tashi Delek!