Asia Escapes · Signature Journey
Bhutan Sri Lanka & Maldives Grand Tour 21 Days
Destination
Multi Destination
Duration
21 Days
Best For
Culture · Nature · Beaches
Style
Private Journey
Journey Route
Kathmandu
→
Thimphu
→
Punakha
→
Paro
→
Colombo
→
Cultural Triangle
→
Kandy
→
Ella
→
Yala
→
Galle
→
Colombo
→
Maldives
Journey Highlights in Pictures
Bhutan Himalayan landscape and monastery
Tiger's Nest monastery Bhutan
Sri Lanka cultural heritage and ancient temple
Sri Lanka tea plantations and scenic landscapes
Maldives tropical beach and turquoise water
Your Journey
Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to rest after your international journey and prepare for the Bhutan adventure ahead.
Overnight: Kathmandu.
Day 2 – Kathmandu – Paro – Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan.
As the aircraft approaches Paro, enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains. On arrival, meet your local representative and travel by road to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.
Along the way, take in Bhutan's dramatic landscapes and traditional architecture. On arrival in Thimphu, receive a traditional Tashi Khaddar, a white ceremonial scarf symbolising good wishes.
Later, visit the Memorial Chorten and explore Ka Ja Throm, a lively part of the city known for local food, crafts and everyday Bhutanese life.
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 3 – Thimphu: Culture & Buddhist Heritage
Today is dedicated to discovering the cultural and spiritual heart of Thimphu.
Visit Buddha Dordenma, the enormous 51-metre Buddha statue overlooking the valley. Continue with a walk towards Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most revered temples.
You will also visit the Drubthob Goema Nuns' Monastery, an important Buddhist convent for women, followed by the National Institute of Traditional Arts, which helps preserve Bhutan's traditional artistic heritage.
At the Museum of Folk Heritage, discover how Bhutanese families traditionally lived, before visiting the magnificent Tashichho Dzong on the banks of the Wang Chhu River.
Overnight: Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 – Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Leave Thimphu and travel towards the beautiful Punakha Valley.
The route crosses the spectacular Dochula Pass at approximately 3,088 metres, where 108 chortens overlook the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
Continue to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most remarkable fortress-monasteries, dramatically situated where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers meet.
Later, visit Chimi Lhakhang, widely known as the Fertility Temple and associated with the legendary Lama Drukpa Kunley.
Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 5 – Punakha Valley & Traditional Bhutan
Continue exploring Punakha and its surrounding countryside.
Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a beautiful Buddhist shrine overlooking the valley. Cross the impressive Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of Bhutan's most memorable riverside experiences.
Continue to Wangduephodrang Dzong, an important fortress-monastery dating from the 17th century.
Later, visit Rinchengang Village, where traditional stone and timber houses offer an insight into rural Bhutanese life.
Overnight: Punakha
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 6 – Punakha to Paro
Today travel to Paro, one of Bhutan's most atmospheric valleys.
Visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. Continue to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery known for its distinctive architecture and Buddhist artwork.
A visit to a traditional Bhutanese home gives you the opportunity to experience local customs and food in a more personal setting.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 7 – Tiger's Nest Monastery
Today is one of the great highlights of your Bhutan journey.
Set out on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, better known as Tiger's Nest, one of Bhutan's most famous and sacred sites. The monastery is dramatically perched high above the Paro Valley.
The current programme allows approximately five hours for the round trip, depending on pace and conditions.
After the hike, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, before enjoying some free time in Paro.
Overnight: Paro
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 8 – Paro to Colombo via Delhi
After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your onward flight to Delhi and connecting flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel and relax after the journey.
Overnight: Colombo
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 9 – Colombo to Dambulla & Habarana
Leave Colombo and travel towards the Cultural Triangle.
En route, visit the extraordinary Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Buddhist statues, murals and cave sanctuaries.
Continue to Habarana, your base for exploring some of Sri Lanka's most important ancient sites.
Overnight: Habarana
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 10 – Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa
Today discover two of Sri Lanka's great archaeological treasures.
Visit Sigiriya Rock, the spectacular ancient rock fortress rising above the surrounding countryside. Continue to Polonnaruwa, the former medieval capital, where you will explore its historic ruins, temples, Gal Vihara and the impressive remains surrounding the ancient city.
Overnight: Habarana
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 11 – Habarana to Kandy via Matale
Travel towards Kandy, stopping at a Matale spice garden along the way.
Continue to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist sites.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan cultural dance performance.
Overnight: Kandy
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 12 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya & Ella
Today travel through the beautiful central highlands.
Visit the famous Ceylon tea plantations and a tea factory, where you can learn more about one of Sri Lanka's best-known exports.
Later, board the scenic train towards Ella, travelling through misty mountains, tea country and lush landscapes.
Important: The Kandy–Ella scenic train is subject to local railway operation and availability, as stated on the current programme.
Overnight: Ella
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 13 – Ella to Yala & Wildlife Safari
Continue south towards Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's best-known wildlife areas.
After arrival, head out on a safari where you may encounter elephants, deer, birds and, with luck, leopards. Wildlife sightings are naturally subject to season, weather and animal movement.
Overnight: Yala
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 14 – Yala to Galle
Travel towards the southern coast.
Along the way, see Sri Lanka's traditional stilt fishermen before continuing to historic Galle.
Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where colonial architecture, old ramparts, narrow streets and the Indian Ocean come together.
Overnight: Galle
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 15 – Galle: Beach & Leisure
Take a slower day after the sightseeing and travelling of the previous days.
Enjoy free time on the coast, relax on the beach or explore more of Galle at your own pace.
Overnight: Galle
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 16 – Galle to Colombo
Return to Colombo, Sri Lanka's commercial capital.
Enjoy a city tour including Pettah, Hindu and Buddhist temples, colonial-era buildings and residential districts, offering a glimpse into the many layers of Colombo's history and culture.
Overnight: Colombo
Meals: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 17 – Colombo to the Maldives
After breakfast, fly to the Maldives.
On arrival, transfer by speedboat to your island resort. The pace now changes completely, giving you time to unwind after the cultural and wildlife experiences of Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
The Maldives stay is planned on a full-board/all-inclusive style basis as specified in the current programme, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and alcoholic beverages.
Overnight: Maldives
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 18 – Maldives: Island Relaxation
Enjoy a free day at your resort.
Spend the day swimming in crystal-clear waters, relaxing on the beach, enjoying the resort facilities or choosing from optional island and water-based activities.
Overnight: Maldives
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 19 – Maldives: Free Day
Another full day to enjoy the islands at your own pace.
You can simply relax beside the lagoon or arrange optional experiences such as water sports, excursions or spa treatments, depending on your resort.
Overnight: Maldives
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 20 – Maldives: Final Day in Paradise
Enjoy your final full day in the Maldives.
Take time to relax, enjoy the beach and make the most of your resort before your departure the following day.
Overnight: Maldives
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 21 – Departure from the Maldives
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Your Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives journey comes to an end.
Meals: Breakfast.
Why Choose This Bhutan, Sri Lanka & Maldives Tour?
Three Distinct Asian Experiences in One Journey Few long-haul itineraries offer such a clear contrast between Himalayan culture, tropical wildlife and island relaxation. Each destination brings something different without repeating the same type of experience. Bhutan Beyond the Main Sights The Bhutan section combines monasteries and dzongs with villages, traditional arts, local markets and rural experiences, giving travellers several ways to understand the country's culture. Sri Lanka's Cultural & Natural Heritage Sri Lanka adds remarkable variety: ancient rock fortresses, sacred temples, tea plantations, scenic rail travel, wildlife and the historic southern coast. A Proper Wildlife Experience The inclusion of Yala National Park adds a genuine nature and safari element rather than making the entire Sri Lanka section purely cultural. The programme notes opportunities to see elephants, deer, birds and potentially leopards, although sightings cannot be guaranteed. Ends with Time to Unwind After two active destinations, the Maldives provide four nights devoted primarily to relaxation, with time for beaches, the lagoon and optional resort experiences. Private & Customisable The existing page presents the journey as a private experience that can be adjusted around travel dates, preferred hotels, interests, pace and experiences.
✦ Trip Highlights
- •️Bhutan
- •️Scenic flight into Paro
- •️Explore Thimphu, Bhutan's capital
- •️Buddha Dordenmas
- •️Changangkha Lhakhangs
- •️Tashichho Dzongs
- •️Dochula Pass and the 108 chortenss
- •️Punakha Dzongs
- •️Chimi Lhakhangs
- •️Punakha Suspension Bridges
- •️Rinchengang traditional villages
- •️Rinpung Dzongs
- •️Traditional Bhutanese home visits
- •️Tiger's Nest Monasterys
- •️Sri Lanka
- •️Dambulla Cave Temple
- •️Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- •️Ancient city of Polonnaruwa
- •️Matale spice garden
- •️Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy
- •️Sri Lankan traditional dance
- •️Ceylon tea plantations
- •️Yala National Park safari
- •️Scenic Kandy–Ella train journey
- •️Traditional stilt fishermen
- •️Historic Galle Fort
- •️Colombo city tour
✦ Recommended Hotels or Choose Your Own
| City | Nights | Planned Hotels (4★) | Proposed Alternatives (5★) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 1 | Shambala Hotel / Ramada Encore | Soaltee Hotel / Hyatt Centric / Radisson |
| Thimphu | 2 | Lemon Tree Resort | DusitD2 Thimphu / Taj Tashi |
| Punakha | 2 | Lobesa Boutique Hotel | Dhensa Boutique Resort / Pemako Punakha |
| Paro | 2 | Tenzinling Luxury Tent Villa | Le Méridien Paro Riverfront / Zhiwa Ling Heritage |
| Colombo | 1 | Marino Beach Colombo | Kingsbury Colombo / Cinnamon Grand |
| Habarana | 2 | Habarana Village by Cinnamon | Cinnamon Lodge Habarana / Heritance Kandalama |
| Kandy | 1 | Radisson Kandy | The Grand Kandyan / Earl's Regency |
| Ella | 1 | On Rock Ella | 98 Acres Resort & Spa / EKHO Ella |
| Yala | 1 | Chaarya Resort & Spa | Cinnamon Wild Yala / Jetwing Yala |
| Galle | 2 | Radisson Blu Resort Galle | The Great Galle / Amangalla |
| Colombo | 1 | Radisson Colombo | Shangri-La Colombo / Taj Samudra |
| Maldives | 4 | Oblu Select Lobigili / OBLU Experience Ilafushi | SAii Lagoon Maldives / Hard Rock Hotel Maldives |
✓ Services Included
- 20 nights' accommodation in selected hotels and resorts
- Daily breakfast
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Full-board/all-inclusive meals and alcoholic beverages during the Maldives resort stay, according to the selected resort/package
- Airport transfers and assistance
- Private ground transportation for the sightseeing programme
- Sightseeing and visits mentioned in the itinerary
- Local multilingual guide services
- Entrance fees for the included sightseeing
- Bhutan visa
- Applicable Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee/charges included in the contracted package, where applicable
- Regional flights shown in the itinerary, subject to confirmed routing and availability
- Maldives airport-to-resort transfer by speedboat, as specified
- Applicable taxes and service charges
✕ Services Not Included
- International flights to Kathmandu and from the Maldives
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Camera/video fees where applicable
- Hotel extras
- Laundry and telephone expenses
- Optional excursions and activities
- Any meals, drinks or services not specifically mentioned
- Expenses arising from circumstances beyond the operator's control
Hotels & Resort Experiences
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Agra, India
Taj Lake Palace
Udaipur, India
Rambagh Palace
Jaipur, India
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Jodhpur, India
The Taj Mahal Palace
Mumbai, India
Ananda in the Himalayas
Rishikesh, India
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Kerala, India
Shangri-La
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Ceylon Tea Trails
Hatton, Sri Lanka
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Yala, Sri Lanka
The Dwarika's Hotel
Kathmandu, Nepal
Tiger Mountain Lodge
Pokhara, Nepal
Meghauli Serai
Chitwan, Nepal
COMO Uma
Paro, Bhutan
Six Senses
Thimphu, Bhutan
Gangtey Lodge
Phobjikha, Bhutan
Gili Lankanfushi
Maldives
Soneva Jani
Maldives
The Ritz-Carlton
Fari Islands, Maldives
Taj Exotica Resort
Maldives
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Agra, India
Taj Lake Palace
Udaipur, India
Rambagh Palace
Jaipur, India
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Jodhpur, India
The Taj Mahal Palace
Mumbai, India
Ananda in the Himalayas
Rishikesh, India
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Kerala, India
Shangri-La
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Ceylon Tea Trails
Hatton, Sri Lanka
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Yala, Sri Lanka
The Dwarika's Hotel
Kathmandu, Nepal
Tiger Mountain Lodge
Pokhara, Nepal
Meghauli Serai
Chitwan, Nepal
COMO Uma
Paro, Bhutan
Six Senses
Thimphu, Bhutan
Gangtey Lodge
Phobjikha, Bhutan
Gili Lankanfushi
Maldives
Soneva Jani
Maldives
The Ritz-Carlton
Fari Islands, Maldives
Taj Exotica Resort
Maldives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private and tailor-made tour?
Yes. This journey is designed as a private experience and can be customised according to your travel dates, interests, preferred hotels, pace and experiences.
Can I customise this itinerary?
Absolutely. The itinerary can be adjusted to suit your preferences, including hotels, experiences, number of nights, activities and travel dates.
Which destinations are included in this journey?
This multi-destination journey includes Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, with regional flights and transfers arranged as part of the travel plan.
What type of travellers is this tour suitable for?
The journey is especially suitable for couples, families, culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and travellers looking for a combination of adventure, cultural discovery and beach relaxation.
Can I choose different hotels?
Yes. Hotel selections can be customised according to your preferred category, location, travel style and budget.
What is the best time to take this journey?
The ideal travel period depends on the destinations and experiences you want to prioritise. Our travel specialists can recommend the most suitable dates based on your preferences.
Can the Maldives stay be extended?
Yes. The Maldives portion can be extended if you would like additional time to relax at the resort or enjoy optional island and water-based experiences.
How can I request a quotation for this itinerary?
Simply use the enquiry form on this page or click “Plan My Journey”. Our Asia Escapes team will contact you to discuss your requirements and prepare a personalised quotation.
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