This 8 Day/7 night fascinating excursion introduces you to the world’s last remaining Himalayan kingdom and a land which remains the most unspoiled and most beautiful example of the Himalayan Buddhist way of life in existence today. Visit the Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang, and Gantey valleys. In Paro you will visit the Ta Dzong National Museum, with its fascinating collection of art, relics and artifacts; the ruined fortress of Drukgyel Dzong where Bhutanese warriors fought in past ages against invaders from Tibet and where sacred Mount Chomolhari looms above the ruins. You will trek to one of Bhutan’s most famous sights, Taktsang or the Tiger’s Nest, clinging to a 3,000ft. high cliff above the Paro Valley. Taktsang is the place where Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on a tiger to bring the Buddhist Dharma from Tibet to Bhutan.

In Thimphu, you will visit Tashichhodzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery that now houses most of the government offices, the National Assembly, and the King’s Throne Room. The King’s Memorial Chorten, topped with a golden spire, has many beautiful works of art. Craft workshops are numerous, from the School of Thangka Painting, maskmakers workshops, and the gold and silversmiths’ village where you can watch the artisans at work. The National Library, Supreme Court, and the Traditional Medicine Center are all in Thimphu, but perhaps the most enjoyable thing to do is stroll along the bustling, colorful streets of town, looking into the shops and watching the throngs of people. On weekends, you can visit the outdoor market, lined with stalls selling fruits, vegetables and countless other items.

Beyond Thimphu, travel the National Highway eastward, over the 10,000 ft. Dochu La pass and down into the luxurious green Punakha Valley, where the ancient capital of Bhutan stands at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Po Chu rivers. Continue on to Wangdiphodrang, overlooking the river below, and Gantey, where the rare and hauntingly beautiful black-necked cranes return every winter. The Pele La Pass through the Black Mountains marks the division between western and central Bhutan. The other side of the road then leads to Trongsa, site of the largest Dzong in Bhutan. And just a short way beyond Trongsa is the lovely, peaceful Bumthang valley, filled with temples and monasteries, a living treasury of history and art.

• DAY 1 Arrive Paro. Paro Valley sightseeing.
• DAY 2-7 Sightseeing Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang and Gantey Valleys.
• DAY 8 Depart Paro.

Land Costs:

• $1600.00 USD per person for 3 or more people during Peak Season
• $1810.00 USD per person for 2 people during Peak Season
• $1880.00 USD per person for 1 person independently during Peak Season
• Inquire about reduced rates for Off Peak Season travel.

Peak Season:

• March, April, May,
• September, October and November

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