Join us as we explore the kingdom of Bhutan with its ancient traditions, awe-inspiring scenery and fascinating culture. It is a place of wonder and a joy to discover. Learn about the traditional way of life and enjoy the spectacle of a traditional Bhutanese festival.

We explore the fascinating Bhutanese culture and the country’s incredible landscape alongside our local guide. We visit Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest perched on the mountainside and accessible by a steep stepped path. We see the forested hills and majestic Himalayan mountains as we journey across this beautiful land.

Known as the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is a stunning destination and a deeply spiritual country. We will take in the highlights and hope to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

Itinerary (subject to change)

Day 1: Leave UK on overnight flight to Paro via India

Day 2: Arrive in Paro and meet our local guide and driver. Transfer to Thimpu (1 hr), stopping at a 16^th century temple and iron bridge along the way. After arriving at the hotel,  we hope to have time to visit the big buddha statue, thought to be the biggest in the world, and the nearby temple. We also hope to see local crafts being made – weaving of the national dress and paper making (all activities today depend on arrival time) Dinner and holiday briefing.

Day 3: This morning, we have a sightseeing tour of Thimpu including a visit to the big buddha statue and temple and the Takin Reserve Centre. The takin is Bhutan’s national animal. After lunch, we head out of the centre to walk up through forest to a high point with fabulous views. Return to Thimpu to enjoy more of the festival atmosphere. Walk 2.5 miles/ 200m ascent.

Day 4: Set off towards Punakha, the former capital in the 17^th century. On the way, we get out at the stunning  Dochula Pass to walk up to a temple at Lungchuste. There is wonderful scenery with views of snow-capped mountains and the valley below. From here, we continue by road to Punakha with a visit to the famous 16^th century fertility temple. Walk 4.5 miles /500m ascent. 2 hours driving

Day 5: Drive out into the surrounding hills for a short hike to the Khamsum Yuelling temple with its 100+ stupas. Enjoy the thrill of taking the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan before exploring the Magical Fortress, the 2^nd oldest and 2^nd largest dzong in Bhutan. From here, we head to a Buddhist nunnery, perched on a hilltop with fabulous views of the surrounding valleys. Walk 2 miles / 200m ascent.

Day 6: Today, we head to Phobjikha, stopping on the way for views of the Black Mountains. When we arrive, we visit the Gangtay Gomba, a school and college known for its unique architecture. We then head off on a nature trail and learn about the black necked cranes which migrate here in winter. Walk 3 miles /150m descent. 2 hours driving

Day 7: We head to Trongsa today, driving through wonderful scenery and high mountain passes dotted with villages along the way. We stop off at a magnificent 18^th Century stupa before arriving in Trongsa where we visit the museum – one of the best places to learn about the history of the kingdom. We then visit Trongsa Dzong, the largest in Bhutan and in a magnificent location. 2.5 hours driving

Day 8: Drive to Bumthang, known as the Switzerland of Bhutan due to its mountain landscape. We drive through mountain passes and visit the Fortress of the White Bird before arriving in Bhumtang. Tonight we stay in a local rural home and enjoy typical Bhutanese hospitality. 2.5 hours driving

Day 9: Today we experience the annual Tamzhing Phala Choepa a festival associated with the construction of the monastery in the 16th century by Terton Pema Lingpa and his protecting deity, Dorji Phagmo or the Diamond Sow. The three-day festival is a display of a series of mask dances among which is the Khandroi Gar Cham, a 500-year old dance. After the festival we head to our home stay and we may have the opportunity to try our hand at the Bhutanese version of darts.

Day 10: We head out to the Burning Lake today on a day excursion to the Tang Valley. The lake is a popular pilgrimage spot.

Day 11:Take the morning flight to Paro where we have time to explore the temples and museum. There is time to relax in Paro – shopping, coffee, pastries…Flight 30 minutes

Day 12: Today we hike up to Taksang, the Tigers Nest, a monastery perched on a sheer cliff face. There is  a café half way up for refreshments. The monastery is probably the most famous in Bhutan and much photographed due to its stunning location. On arrival, there is a guided tour before we head back down to the waiting bus. We have an afternoon at a local farmhouse where there is an optional hot stone bath for tired muscles, followed by trying your hand at a traditional bow and arrow before sampling the local rice wine. Celebration dinner. Walk 4.5 miles/ 500m ascent

Day 13: Transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Day 14: Arrive home after overnight flight.