Bhutan, the land of the peaceful thunder dragon, lies amidst the highest mountains on earth. Like Tibet, this remote and ancient mountain kingdom was closed to foreigners for many years, but has now opened its doors to a limited number of travellers each year. The secluded kingdom of Bhutan is a remarkable country, with a vibrant yet beautifully preserved orthodox culture, a land full of grandeur and peace and unparalleled views of the Himalayan peaks. Our journey starts in Paro, and takes us to the capital Thiumpu, the ancient capital Punakha, and on to Gangtey, Trongsa, Bumthang, Ura and Wangdue. We will visit and explore monasteries, ancient fortresses (dzongs), temples, and traditional Bhutanese houses, with time to wander through the fascinating markets. We also drive through picturesque landscapes of spectacular mountain ranges, lush green valleys and pine and cedar forests. We cross the Dochola Pass, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, and also the Black Mountains, which divide east and west Bhutan. Returning to Paro, we will visit the beautiful Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), found high above the valley floor, clinging precariously to the rock cliff. A fascinating end to a journey which takes in the highlights of the mysterious kingdom of Bhutan, often referred to as the “living museum” of the world.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is probably the most mysterious of all the Himalayan Kingdoms. It lies landlocked in the eastern Himalayas between Nepal and India, amidst the highest mountains in the world. It is a land of diverse contrasts, with beautiful forests of rhodedendrons, pine and cedar, rugged mountains, lush valleys, and lakes teeming with trout. This trip gives you an insight into the deep cultural heritage of Bhutan, combined with a six day trek. We explore some of the monasteries and ancient fortresses (dzongs) of Paro and the capital Thimphu, and enter the beautiful Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), which clings precariously to the rock cliff. Our trek takes us along trails leading high above the valleys, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the valleys of Paro and Thimphu. We trek through thick alpine and rhodedendron forests and along remote trails, encounter yak herders establishing camps, and marvel at the spectacular backdrop of the beautiful Himalayan mountains.