Our 7-day Family Cultural and Outdoor Tour to Ura Valley will give you a deep look into Bhutan’s unique cultural heritage. This great trip takes you to the special Ura Valley in Bhutan, where age-old customs meet amazing mountain scenes. Your family will learn about Bhutan’s culture by participating, joining traditional events, and connecting with the locals.
On this Bhutan tour, you will see sacred temples, join in traditional ceremonies, go hiking through stunningly pure valleys, and enjoy the taste of ancient and modern farm-made foods. This Ura Valley tour offers chances for spiritual learning, cultural experience, or outdoor fun, so you won’t forget the time you spend here.
Explore the real beauty of Bhutan’s culture and nature during your unique Family Cultural and Outdoor Tour to Ura Valley. During this carefully organized 7-day journey, families explore spiritually, enjoy the outdoors, and gain memorable cultural experiences everyone will remember. Joining in ancient celebrations, picking up local trades, hiking through pretty valleys, and dining with the locals helps you appreciate the traditions and values of Bhutan. On the Ura Valley Bhutan tour, travelers experience more than usual tours because they can learn and grow through connections with a well-preserved culture. Reserve your Bhutan experience today and discover why the authentic cultural heart of Bhutan’s happiness emanates from the Ura Valley, alongside its rich traditions and stunning surroundings.
Arrive in Bumthang, visit Jakar Dzong, and explore local villages.
Visit Kurjey Lhakhang and Tamshing Lhakhang, then take a gentle hike through the Ura Valley.
Spend the day with a local family, learning about traditional Bhutanese life, farming practices, and weaving
Take a scenic hike to Mebar Tsho (the Burning Lake) and enjoy a family picnic by the lake.
Explore Bumthang, visit the Bumthang Valley, and enjoy a cultural exchange with local villagers.
Head to Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong, and enjoy a boat ride along the river.
Return to Paro, visit Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang Goemba), and enjoy a family dinner before departure.
Ura Valley adventure begins in Bumthang, whether you reach it by flying or by road. As soon as you step into Bumthang, pay a visit to the Jakar Dzong Fort to get great views over the valley. Wander with a local in and around Bumthang town to see how the traditional architecture fits nicely next to the modern way of life. Go to nearby craft stores offering woven products and check out cheese factories operating thanks to a project introduced by Swiss development work. You will get an evening introduction to plans and then share a traditional Bhutanese family dinner.
Start with Kurjey Lhakhang, which is considered a sacred site because Guru Rinpoche left his body’s mark on the rocks there. Move on to Tamshing Lhakhang, which was started by Pema Lingpa and contains ancient art and objects. You can begin your hiking trek in Ura Valley, and as you go, you have several opportunities to photograph beautiful views. Check out the Ura Lhakhang ancient temple and find out about its place in local religious activities. Take lovely pictures of the villages, fields, and yak grazing grounds, and speak to locals here who still preserve their history of cultivation in Yunnan’s pristine mountains.
Take part in genuine farming rites such as tending the soil, harvesting what’s grown, and caring for farm animals. Get to know the time-tested ways Bhutanese communities have farmed their land for years. Enjoy some cultural games, including trying out archery, Bhutan’s favorite sport, or the dart game khuru at festive events. Enjoy learning how to weave using wooden looms and make colors for your work using native plants and minerals. Gathering together in the evening with stories around the fire, sharing folklore tales, and having organic dinners from family gardens.
You might enjoy hiking to Mebar Tsho, also known as Burning Lake, because legend has it that Pema Lingpa discovered sacred items at this site. You’ll see wonderful forest views throughout the trail and have a chance to spot blue sheep and many bird species from the Himalayas. Understand both the legends and the religious meaning of Mount Chomolhari and its lake. Enjoy eating together by the water, as the children will be safe to walk around and discover the area. Head to where you are staying for a traditional hot stone bath, which uses heated river rocks and herbs to ease your tired muscles after a long day.
Check out additional sacred structures scattered around the Bumthang Valley because each one is special in its way. Join in at folk music and dance sessions and learn songs and moves that have been passed down through the years. Enjoy the impressive Gho and Kira outfits by having local specialists show you the proper way to wear each one. See where talented craftspeople weave beautiful cloth and shop for handmade souvenirs such as paper, wood items, and jewelry that support local artists.
You get to drive through thick forest and then over mountain passes, so you can take pleasure stops to see the lovely Himalayan mountains. You should visit Punakha Dzong, one of the country’s biggest fortresses, where two rivers flow together. Take photos from the big suspension bridge, appreciate the picturesque landscapes around you, and make it a fun outing for everyone. An optional boat ride or mild rafting may be enjoyed on the Mo Chhu, depending on weather and the family's choice. See Chimi Lhakhang, which serves as the fertility temple for Drukpa Kunley, and hear about the beloved saint’s unusual teachings and amusing legends.
This day starts with a hike to Tiger's Nest or Taktsang Monastery, which is located on a high cliff looking over Paro Valley. Climbing this medium difficulty route provides breathtaking views and presents itself as Bhutan's most famous landmark. One of the oldest in Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang marks the temple where, in the 7th century, Buddhists worked to overpower harmful demons in the Himalayas. Come to Paro town to purchase local handicrafts, textiles, and special foods. Say goodbye to your trip with a dinner of traditional dishes, a memorable performance, and lovely talks with your local friends here.
November through are the best seasons for your Ura Valley Bhutan tour. You’ll see blooming rhododendrons in spring and can enjoy clear views of the mountains; in autumn, the cool air and clear weather make photography easier. Frequent rains during summer tend to appear, but the area is filled with greenery and freshness. Winter in the mountains is exciting because there is less cloud cover, but also cold. A good idea is to visit during Buddhist festival months to take part in the spectacular Ura Yakchoe.
Families can enjoy a real sense of Bhutanese culture, away from the many commercial destinations. In this remote region, old customs and nature, hardly changed by modernity, offer education to children and cultural help to adults. Adventures outside, connectivity with faith, and personal enrichment through culture combine to make the itinerary friendly for all ages. Since it is less crowded than many tourist spots, Ura Valley lets guests interact with Bhutanese people and capture stunning photos of their culture.
Discover the spiritual history of Bhutan by visiting old monasteries and dzongs as you travel the Ura Valley. Head to Jakar Dzong, see the temple where Guru Rinpoche meditated, called Kurjey Lhakhang, and worship at the venerable Ura Lhakhang temple. You can find exceptional architecture and a deep spiritual connection to centuries of Buddhist culture at each of these sites.
If your holiday falls during the festival period, you’ll have the opportunity to see the lively Ura Yakchoe in Bhutan. People celebrate Tshechu by dancing in colorful masks, performing traditional music, and having group events, all of which give a real view of the culture. The festival brings joy and devotion to the scene, which attracts people from everywhere.
See the enchanting Mebar Tsho, the Burning Lake, where legend says Pema Lingpa found sacred Buddhist artifacts. You’ll find remarkable scenery and significant religious value here. There is plenty of time for quiet thought and for taking photos as you discover the folklore and religions of Bhutan.
Take advantage of the serene tradition of a hot stone bath as a truly Bhutanese wellness experience. Getting into a river-stone heated bath with herbs is a great way to relax after crossing the country. Not only does this practice loosen your tight muscles, but it also links you to ancient healing methods used in Bhutan over many years.
Taste the natural food of Bhutan, something local families make and eventually put on the national dress, such as the Gho for men and Kira for women. English School, in Asuza, invites you to enjoy ema datshi, paksha paa, and red rice to understand the methods and flavors unique to Bhutan’s cuisine.
Experience life alongside Bhutanese families, play their traditional games of archery and khuru, and try your hand at making woven and naturally dyed textiles. These meetings show you the customs and traditions that agencies often miss, allowing you to get to know the friendly Bhutanese well.
March to May in spring and September to November in autumn provide the most enjoyable weather for families to travel. Both spring and autumn are great times to visit, as there are flowers in the first season and clear views and easy hiking in the second. Due to steering clear of the monsoon and bitter winter temperatures, the seasons make being outside fun for kids.
All age groups are comfortable on this trip because we offer flexible movements and optional activities. Tourists do not need to go far hiking, and if you cannot hike for kilometres, we can find you alternative transport. Cultural activities in the city are open to everyone in the family, and guides are skilled at making storytelling and hands-on activities enjoyable for children.
Don’t forget to pack clothes that fit the weather, hiking shoes that feel good on your feet, rain gear, protection from the sun, and your medicines. Detailed packing lists for all travel seasons are sent after a booking is made. Participants are given traditional items to wear for cultural activities, and all outdoor equipment is included in the offer.
When in temples, you should take off your shoes, avoid pointing your feet at the altar, and act quietly and politely. Some religious sites allow only certain types of photography, and our guides will tell you how to behave. Cover your shoulders and knees when you visit places of worship, and always ask if it’s okay to photograph anyone before you do.
Bhutan homestays use traditional homes and provide modern toilets, along with comfortable sleeping arrangements. Sharing meals and living spaces gives families a chance to learn about the customs of the community. You will be respected for your privacy while meeting and interacting with families who are chosen for their kindness and basic English.
With enough warning, our kitchen can make food for vegetarians, vegans, and most people with dietary needs. Most of the food present in Bhutan is vegetarian, as well as specialized meals can be prepared by our local partners if you have dietary restrictions. It is suggested to mention your allergies and dietary restrictions while you're booking the trip.
If the weather stops outdoor trips, other cultural experiences inside are scheduled. If conditions change, you can reschedule with ease, and guides will find fun replacements that keep your experience worthwhile and informative. The focus of activity planning is always to ensure safety.
The steady uphill sections to Tiger's Nest may take almost 3 hours, and if anyone is unable to walk the full hike, they can still take another path while enjoying the full view, and even horses are available for some of the hike towards the destination. Seeing the highlights and gaining spiritual memories gives most people a good reason to climb.
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.
Feel free to ask us anything about this tour. A travel expert will then get back to you as soon as possible
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.