Extraordinary Journeys Expands Portfolio to Include Bhutan: A New Destination with Unmatched Adventures

The Award-Winning Tour Operator Introduces Three Exclusive Itineraries in the Land of the Thunder Dragon

NEW YORK, NY (August 12, 2024) — Extraordinary Journeys, the acclaimed tour operator and adventure destination specialist renowned for its exceptional itineraries in Africa, South America, India, Nepal, and Oceania, is thrilled to announce the addition of Bhutan as a new destination. Building on its legacy of delivering personalized, immersive travel experiences, Extraordinary Journeys is excited to bring its signature expertise and passion for adventure and cultural immersion to Bhutan. This new venture promises to offer the same unparalleled service and attention to detail that has earned it a loyal following and top accolades in the travel industry. This expansion introduces travelers to the mystical and breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas through three meticulously curated itineraries, including Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey, Highlights of Bhutan, and Mountain Getaway: 5 Nights in Bhutan.

Extraordinary Journeys' Bhutan adventures are carefully curated to highlight the hidden gems and lesser-known destinations across the country, providing travelers with a truly immersive experience beyond typical tourist routes. Travelers can expect to engage in hands-on experiences exclusive to Extraordinary Journeys, with itineraries catering to those who seek a deeper connection with the culture and environment of Bhutan.

Blanketed by forest cover, hemmed by snow-capped peaks, dotted with Buddhist monasteries, and ripe for adventure and cultural exploration, Bhutan is a remote Himalayan country likened to a Shangri-La. Closed to outsiders until 1974 and shirking GDP for Gross Domestic Happiness, journeying through the Kingdom is like visiting a place preserved in time. In no rush to modernize and deeply rooted in the tenet of environmental conservation, it's a rare, pristine paradise that receives far fewer visitors than neighbors Nepal, India, and Tibet.  

"Our expansion into Bhutan is a natural progression for Extraordinary Journeys," said Elizabeth Gordon], Founder and CEO of Extraordinary Journeys. "We are committed to offering our clients unique and meaningful travel experiences, and Bhutan's untouched beauty and rich cultural tapestry provide the perfect backdrop for this. Our team has worked diligently to create itineraries that capture the essence of Bhutan while maintaining the high standards our clients expect."

While every adventure with Extraordinary Journeys is fully customizable and tailored to meet the unique needs of each traveler, the award-winning tour operator proudly announces its launch into Bhutan with the following itineraries:

Bhutan: An Unforgettable Journey

On this exclusive 12-day luxury tour, explore Bhutan's stunning central valleys, quirky capital, and remote village in the high Himalayan alpine. This itinerary features dreamy, five-star luxury lodges, including a memorable night at a monastery and an overnight at a tented camp surrounded by wilderness. Traveling by private vehicle and driver with a scenic helicopter transfer, this itinerary offers travelers the opportunity to experience the best of Bhutan in total comfort. 

Experience a thrilling helicopter ride to the remote village of Laya, meet the semi-nomadic Layaps, and continue to the scenic Phobjikha Valley. Enjoy a moderately challenging hike to the sacred Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery) with guided meditation and tea. Spend an evening at a wilderness camp in Bumthang with personalized astrology readings, massages, and Bhutanese whiskey tasting by a bonfire. Retreat to luxury lodges offering stunning views and regional cuisine.

Dine al fresco by the Punakha Dzong, followed by a gentle river float. Engage in spiritual practices with monks in Trongsa, explore Bhutan's architectural wonders, and partake in hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Rejuvenate with culturally rooted wellness treatments throughout the journey.

Highlights of Bhutan

Extraordinary Journeys' 8-night Highlights of Bhutan itinerary seamlessly connects the Kingdom's enchanting valleys, combining luxurious lodges with an immersive tented wilderness camp experience for a one-of-a-kind adventure. 

In true Extraordinary Journeys fashion, this itinerary dedicates two nights to the often-overlooked Haa Valley, known for its serene highland lakes and crystal-clear rivers. A knowledgeable guide and driver will navigate Bhutan's picturesque byways and winding mountain passes, allowing travelers to take in the breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of their vehicle.

This itinerary offers a bit of everything—stunning natural beauty, rich culture, visits to dzongs and monasteries, delicious regional cuisine, hiking, and wellness activities—ensuring you experience the very best of Bhutan on this unforgettable journey.

Mountain Getaway: 5 Nights in Bhutan 

On Extraordinary Journeys' five-night Mountain Getaway itinerary, travelers will visit the Kingdom's best valleys and retreat to dreamy five-star lodges. Additionally, spend a night in nature at a fully staffed, exclusive-use wilderness camp in a secluded location. 

Traveling by private vehicle, the journey is tailored to your interests, in total comfort. Brisk hikes are tempered by serene dzong and monastery visits, picnics in the fresh mountain air, and traditional wellness treatments steeped in ancient wisdom. Emerge from Bhutan, rested, recentered, and inspired.  

While this itinerary can be done on its own, Extraordinary Journeys recommends it as an extension to India or Nepal.

Extraordinary Journeys invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure in Bhutan, where ancient traditions meet stunning natural landscapes. 

Focusing on sustainable and responsible travel, the company ensures every trip to Bhutan supports local communities and preserves the country's pristine environment.

For more information or to book a family adventure of a lifetime, visit Extraordinary Journeys at www.extraordinaryjourneys.com.

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About Extraordinary Journeys:

Extraordinary Journeys (EJ) is a luxury travel specialist founded by a dynamic mother-daughter duo with over 50 years of combined expertise in safari and adventure travel. Renowned for crafting highly personalized, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, EJ offers bespoke itineraries that go well beyond the ordinary. While East and Southern Africa remain at the heart of their expertise, Extraordinary Journeys has expanded its reach, crafting tailor-made adventures across South America, Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and most recently, select destinations within Southeast Asia including Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam, with more destinations to come. In these new destinations, travelers can expect the same level of deep expertise, personalized service, and attention to detail that is synonymous with EJ.

EJ designs unforgettable adventures that are truly one-of-a-kind using a perfect blend of diverse accommodations and immersive, authentic experiences, blending iconic sites with hidden gems. Each of the 4,000+ journeys they've created is a testament to their deep knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to social responsibility.

For the last decade, Co-Founder Elizabeth Gordon has been recognized on Travel + Leisure's "A-List," while her mother, Marcia Gordon, has been celebrated as one of Departures Magazine's "Guides to the Super Guides." EJ has twice earned National Geographic Traveler's "Trip of a Lifetime" and has been voted "World's Best Safari Outfitters" by Travel + Leisure readers from 2016 to 2024. If you're seeking a journey as unique as you are, Extraordinary Journeys is where your adventure begins.