The Kingdom of Bhutan, nestled high in the tranquil Himalayas is a haven to rich bio-diversity, vibrant religion, unique arts, rich history, cultural splendor, heritage and scenic grandeur. It is a fascinating land where time had stood still and preserved the exquisite beauty of this mystical country. The vegetation varies over very short distances ranging from tropical broadleaf forests to alpine shrubs and lush meadows. Bhutan is home to such exotic mammals as Takin (a large, musk-ox-like animal), Black necked Crane, Golden Langur, Royal Bengal tiger, clouded leopards and red pandas. Bird species range from the Himalayan black Eagle, and boreal owl to the Tiny black-throated parrot bill. Our Culture Heartlands tour provides one of the best opportunities to experience most if not all of the Bhutanese life style in all its glory. Detailed Itinerary: Day 01 - Arrival at Paro Airport You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel to settle in. After the formalities we take a short drive to Paro town to stroll through Bazaar. Overnight at a hotel. Day 02 - Sightseeing around Paro then evening drive to Thimphu We visit the Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum and visit Paro’s Rimpung Dzong, on the way down we cross the 16th century cantilever bridge. Also visiting the Drugyel Dzong victory fortress, built in 1647 which is 18 kilometres from the Paro town. Explore the magnificent ramparts of the erstwhile fortress which defended the country against several incursions. On a clear day one can also view the sacred Mount Jomolhari, from the northern battlements. We take a visit to a farm house and observe the traditional Bhutanese way of life and living. Overnight at a hotel. Day 03 - Sightseeing in and around Thimphu Early morning we take a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, approx 90 mins drive from Paro. Sightseeing in and around Thimphu valley we visit the National Library, which holds a collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, as well as the institute for Zorig Chusum commonly known as Painting School, textile and Folk Heritage Museum which provides an insight into Bhutanese material culture and everyday way of life. Also visiting the National Memorial Chorten, Trashichho dzong an impressive monastery, Bhutanese Handicrafts displaying a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles and craft products. In the evening we explore the vibrant Thimphu Bazaar. Overnight at a hotel. Day 04 - Drive from Thimphu to Gangtey/Phobjikha Drive to the glacial valley of Phobjikha via Dochula, this pass offers the panoramic view of Bhutan’s Himalayan Ranges. Along the slopes is the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. This quiet and remote valley is the winter home of the black necked cranes. Explore Gangtey village and Phobjikha valley. The unique black necked crane festival is held on the valley floor every November. Overnight at a hotel. Day 05 - Drive from Gangtey to Bumthang After an early breakfast, drive to Tongsa across Pele-la pass (3,300m). The pass is marked by a white chorten and many prayer flags. There is an abrupt change in vegetation with mountain forest replaced by high altitude dwarf bamboo. Stop at Chendebji Chorten. You can see the chorten with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. It was built in the 18th century by Lama Shida from Tibet, to cover the remains of evil spirit that was subdued at this spot. Finally reaching towards Trongsa you can view the stunning Trongsa Dzong from a distance. Bumthang, 68 kms away from Trongsa, a journey of about 3 hours, over the Yutong-la pass (3,400m). The road winds steeply up to the pass, then runs down through coniferous forest into a wide, open cultivated valley known as the Chumey valley. Stopping in Chumey village there are many shops selling yathra, a woolen textile. Bumthang is famous for yathra a distinctive strip of woven woolen fabric in numerous colours and patterns mostly made using ancient dyeing techniques. The Road follows the valley down and it climbs through blue pine forests to Kiki La (2,860m). We then descent down to the Choekor Valley or central of Bumthang. Overnight at a hotel. Day 06 - Sightseeing in and around Bumthang The Bumthang valley comprises of a combination of four valleys – Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura with altitudes varying from 2,600m to 4,000m. Home to many of prominent Buddhist temples and monasteries. Visiting the Jakar Dzong built in 1667 and it`s seat of district administration and regional monastic body of Bumthang. Jambay Lhakhang founded in 7th century by the Tibetan king Songsen Gampo it is one of the oldest monasteries in the country. Kurje Lhakhang, where the patron saint of Buddhism in Bhutan subdued a local demon and left his body imprint. Tamshing founded in 1501 by Terton (Treasure Revealer) Pema Lingpa the incarnation of Guru Rinpoche. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhisattvas) in Bhutan. Visit a farmer’s house for refreshments and observe the traditional way of living. We also visit a Swiss farm which produces cottage, swiss cheese, honey, a large variety of fruit juice and spirits. The Brewery that manufactures the famous Red Panda Beer (weiss beer) also located here. Take a leisurely walk in Chamkhar town. Overnight at a hotel. Day 07 - Drive through Trongsa to Punakha Leaving Bumthang, we head for Trongsa where we will visit the Trongsa Dzong which was built in 1648 it is the biggest of all the fortresses in the country. Drive to Punakha via Wangdiphodrang after which we take a stroll through the Wangdi market. Overnight at a hotel. Day 08 - Sightseeing in Punkha with overnight accommodation in Paro Drive north to visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 which strategically occupies the land between the two rivers Phochu and Mochu. At Present the Dzong serve as the district administration and judiciary office as well as the winter home for Bhutan’s spiritual leader Je Khenpo and the monks of Thimphu and Punakha. We then drive onto Lobesa where you take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. This temple is on a hill top and it is dedicated to the great Yogi known as Drukpa Kuenley or popularly known as “Divine madman” of the 14th century. It is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility. Overnight at a hotel. Day 09 - Sightseeing in and around Paro Excursion to the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). The trail to the monastery climbs through beautiful Pine and rhododendron forests. We stop at the tea house for rest and refreshments, the tea house offers magnificent up close view of the tigers nest and continue the hike for short while until you see, clearly and seemingly within reach, the imposing Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900m into the valley below. History states that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tiger and meditated here for three months. It is regarded to be one of the most venerated cultural heritage sites in Bhutan. People from all over the Himalayan Diaspora frequent this place on the pilgrimage trail to Bhutan. Overnight at a hotel. Day 10 - Transfer to international airport for your final departure. After breakfast our airport representative will drop you to the Paro International Airport for your flight departure from Bhutan.

Thimphu can sometimes feel inaccessible to foreign visitors. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private, customized tour. Your guide contacts you beforehand to get a feel for your interests and tastes to ensure that you only visit the places you are interested in. As you explore the city, your guide shares insights into local life forming a clearer picture of Thimphu's culture. - Private tour for just you and your group - Your guide customizes your tour to your interests and personality - Get a deeper insight into Thimphu life than possible alone - See Thimphu through the eyes of a local and discover its hidden gems Choose from 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8-hour tour options.

Day 1 :Arrive Paro International Airport by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines Welcome to Bhutan “the Land of the Peaceful Dragon.” As you touch down, you will be received with “tashi khada” by your guide and our staff at the airport and escorted to your hotel for check-in, welcome tea (herbal) and refreshment. Please note; your itinerary shall be flexible and you can skip few sightseeing if you wish to rest more. Your guide will give you options based on your interest) Local Sightseeing & Acclimatization Day! National Museum (Ta-Dzong). Once the watch tower for the Rinpung Dzong (fortress), it was converted into the national Museum in 1968 (one of the best museums of Asia). The museum stands on a promontory overlooking the Paro valley in all its glory. Rinpung Dzong. A flagstone path rises gradually from a beautiful wooden bridge with shingle roofing and abutted by two guard houses to the Dzong. Today, this massive fortress built in 1645 AD is the seat of the district administration as well as the home for the monastic school. Get blessings at the oldest temple of the kingdom, Kichu Lhakhang. This temple was built in 629AD by a Tibetan King to pin down a giant demon. Witness an Archery match played by locals with lots of hue & cry. Archery is the national game of Bhutan and also the most popular. Walk around Paro town and after evening tea drive to Thimphu, a small, charming capital city nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. It is nothing like what a capital city is imagined to be. Most of the houses and buildings are painted and constructed in traditional Bhutanese style. Farmer’s Market where locals go to buy an array of fresh fruits & vegetables and many colorful items such as yak tail, duster, cups or butter tea, turquoise and musical instruments etc. After check-in hotel, time at leisure. Free to roam around city. Overnight THIMPHU/ Alt; 2320m Day 2 : Discovering Punakha & Wangdue Valley (78km/ 3hr) In morning, drive to the animal sanctuary where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is found in captivity. Walk around Sangaygang which is also known as the “romantic point” and lovers often come here to look at the panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. On the way down visit the National Memorial Stupa, an impressive monument with its golden spires shining in the sun, its bell tinkling in the wind and endless procession of elderly people circumambulating it. Drive to Punakha via the winding river of Paro Chu & Wangchu. Stop for a hot cup of coffee at Dochu La pass (3150m) where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. Take a walk around the 108 stupas and also enter the Drukwangyel (Royal temple) built by the four queens as a tribute to the fourth King of Bhutan.. Punakha Dzong, "Palace of Great Happiness.” It hosts the administrative seat of the district. The Dzong lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river. It was built in 1637 AD It was here on 17th December 1907, Bhutan's first king was crowned. This ancient fortress is considered to be one of the most beautiful by many. In evening, hike to Chimi Lhakhang. This temple is called the Temple of Fertility as it is believed that childless couples who come here to pray for a child is usually blessed with a child. This is the temple of one of Bhutan’s foremost saints, Lama Drukpa Kunley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” The trail takes you through the Himalayan paddy fields and a typical Metshina village. Overnight Punakha & Wangdue/ Alt; 1240m Day 3 : Thimphu Cultural Sightseeing After breakfast, drive to Thimphu the “cultural heartland of the country.” On arrival check in hotel and the tour begins with a visit to; General Post Office. You can create a personalized postage stamps by your own photo for souvenir or sent home on a post card. Zorig Chusum “School for Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts.” Student specializes in painting thankas (painted religious picture on canvas), wood carving (mask, statues, bowls), embroidery (hangings, boots, clothes), sculpting (statue making usually with clay) etc. Drive to Buddha Gang, which offers a spectacular view of Thimphu city. This giant Buddha-statue overlooking Thimphu is one of the biggest in the world. Walk to the Happiness Garden 500 meters along a beautiful nature trail to plant various species of trees like Rhododendron, Maple, Oak, Cheery & Blue Pine. In advance we will keep your pit dug, saplings ready with your name placard. The placard will have your name and address and the photograph of the happiness tree’s growth will be mailed to you quarterly. (Fees included in your package, complimentary) Tashichhoe Dzong Fortress, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body. After diinner in gho’s & kira’s. Drayang, traditional Bhutanese pub with live singers/ dancers, Optional. Overnight THIMPHU/ Alt; 2320m Day 4: Excursion to Mystical Taktsang After a wholesome breakfast, drive to Paro (60km/ 1hr). Check in your resort and prepare for the excursion. Spend the day hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip. An important place of pilgrimage and refuge for more than 1200 years, Taktsang Monastery clings to sheer cliffs two-thousand feet above Paro valley. (Pony & horse ride, optional) This sacred place got its name when Guru Rinpoche rode there on the back of a flying tigress and meditated in a cave behind the present-day monastery. Lunch at the hillside cafeteria. In evening, visit a typical village home for an authentic Bhutanese style farewell dinner accompanied by the homemade liquor. Optional, luxuriate in the hot stone bath called “Chu Tse.” River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing. Overnight PARO/ Alt; 2280m Day 5: Depart from Paro International Airport by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines Our representative will bid you farewell at the Airport. Tashi Delek

Some Tour Highlights; Trongsa Dzong/ Kila Gomba/ Nature Trail Hike/ Phobjikha Retreat/ Fertility Hike/ Punakha Dzong/ Ancient Trail Hike/ Ancient Temples in Bumthang & Retreat/ Khamsum Yueling Hike/ Burning Lake/ Tashichhoe Dzong/ Rinpung Dzong/ Zorig Chusum/ Buddha Gang/ Farmer’s Market/ Archery Match/ Home Visits/ Wangditse Hike/ Gangtey Monastery/ Punakha Dzong/ Tiger’s Nest/ Farmers house & Farewell Dinner… Day 1 : Arrive Paro International Airport by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines Welcome to Bhutan “the Land of the Thunder Dragon.” As you touch down, you will be received with “tashi khada” by your guide and driver at the airport and driven to the town for welcome tea and refreshment. (Please note; your itinerary shall be flexible and you can skip few sightseeing if you wish to rest more. Your guide will give you options based on your interest) Paro Sights & Thimphu Acclimatization Day! • After enjoying the view from the old-road airport view-point, get blessings at the oldest temple Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king. • Rinpung Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels.” • Visit Ta Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower turned into a museum to get the first cultural glimpses of Bhutan. • In evening drive to Thimphu (drive 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. • Free to roam around Thimphu town on your own or with your guide. Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m). Day 2 : Discovering Punakha & Wangdue (78km/ 3hr) • En route stop by Dochula pass (3150m) to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. • Stroll around 108 stupas and enter Drukwangyel (Royal temple). • Hike along the Metshina village to Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. Your relationship will be blessed at this temple to grow with each passing years. • Visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river. • Walk on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village . • In evening, time at your leisure. Overnight Punakha & Wangdue (Alt; 1240m) Day 3 : Trongsa & Bumthang’s Landscape Tour (197km/ 7-8hr) • Drive to Trongsa, stopping for mountain-view at Pele La pass (3,300m). It’s common to spot yaks along this pass. • As you reach Rukubji valley, the houses are clustered amid extensive fields of mustard, potatoes, barley, and wheat. • En route circumambulate Chendebjichorten, a large white stupa beside a stream. • Enjoy full view of Trongsa Dzong from Tangsibji. • Optional; Embark on the Ancient Trail Hike down to the river base and up to the fortress (2.5 hrs walk). Trongsa fortress used to be one of the most powerful Dzong’s of Bhutan and this trail used to be only path for the traveler’s before roads were built. • Visit Trongsa Dzong; a white fortress that appears to grow directly up from the narrow green ridge. • The ancient Watch Tower which is now turned into a historical museum • Drive over one of the most scenically beautiful routes via the Yotong La pass (3425m). • En route visit Yathra weaving centre in Chumey valley. The hand-woven woolen cloth produced locally. • Stroll down from the monastery to the river bank and stroll around the peaceful town of Bumthang. Overnight Bumthang(Alt; 2580m) Day 4 : Bumthang Spiritual Sightseeing • Jakar Dzong (fortress of the White-bird). It is one of the biggest Dzongs in Bhutan with the surrounding walls about 1 km in circumference. • After lunch, Hike along a series of ancient and important sites such as, Jambay lhakhang, Kurjey lhakhang, Pema Sambha lhakhang &Tamshing lhakhang. (These temples have many mythical stories linked to its origin and dates back as early as 8th century. Your guide will unfold its mystery as you visit these sites). • Late noon, take a short hike to Menbar Tsho (the burning lake). This lake is the holiest lake in the country and is believed to be a wish fulfilling lake. • Wangdichholing Palace; the first palace of the present Wangchuk dynasty and also the first palace that was not designed as a fortress. • In evening time at your leisure, free to roam around the villages and valley. Overnight Bumthang Day 5 : Gangtey Rural Expedition (188km/ 5-6hr) • Drive on different vegetation of alpine, subtropical and glacial. Phobjikha is a glacial valley on the north western tip of the Black Mountain. It’s also one of the roosting grounds of the Black-necked cranes. • En route visit the Trongsa Dzong, a white fortress that appears to grow directly up from the narrow green ridge. • Embark on the Nature trail hike across the refreshing Blue-pine forest to Kwewa village (1.5hr hike). Try homemade tea & local snacks at village home. Interact with the monks at Kewa Monastery. • Visit the Crane Info Centre. • Free to walk around village or drive to your hotel for rest. Overnight Phobjikha (2900m) Day 6 : Phobjikha & Thimphu Happiness Tour (142km/ 4-5hr) • At dawn, free to walk out into the green valley to enjoy the sunrise. • Stop at Drukwangyel Cafe for lunch and mountain-view and head to Thimphu. Thimphu is a small, charming capital city nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. • After check in your hotel and some rest; drive to Buddha Gang, which offers a spectacular view of Thimphu city. This giant Buddha-statue overlooking Thimphu is one of the biggest in the world. • Circumambulate Memorial chorten (huge stupa). This is the favorite spot for the locals of all age to chant mantras, prostrate, pray and practice their devotion. • The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body. • In evening, time at your leisure Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m) (centrally located) Day 7 : Thimphu Cultural Tour • Wake up late and have breakfast according to your convenience. • Drive to Sangay-gang where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is found in captivity. This hill is also called the “romantic point” as lovers often come here to enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. • Embark on a Wangditse hike (1 hr). From the prayer flag decorated area at the start of the trail, you will follow the trail through thick blue pine forest climbing upwards to Choekhortse Goemba. Spend time with each other in nature also enjoying the spectacular view. Carry some tea, juice and snacks. • Visit the General Post Office. You can create a personalized postage stamps by your own photo for souvenir or sent home on a post card. • Zorig Chusum “School for Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts” followed Craft Bazaar for authentic local handicraft and souvenir. • Pray with the nuns at Zilukha Nunnery • Farmers Weekend Market. Try some organic fruits & nuts. • Witness an Archery Match played by locals with lots of hue & cry at the national stadium. • In evening, free to roam around the town. Overnight Thimphu Day 8 : Excursion to Mystical Taktsang • After a wholesome breakfast, spend the day hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous, spiritual and scenic icon. Tiger’s Nest clings to sheer cliffs of 900m above Paro valley. The climb is steep and takes about 4-5hrs round trip. (Ponies & horses optional) • Before proceeding to the holy monastery, offer butter lamps at the Cliffside for the wellbeing of all sentient beings. • Sit together inside the speech room just above the cave where Guru Rimpoche meditated in 8th century. Open your heart and allow yourself to embrace the divine energy circulating at Taktsang and carry the fond experience with you when you fly back home. A sunkey (holy string) and khada will be given to you by a lama before you leave the speech room and Tiger’s Nest. • Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view. • In evening, authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.” • Hot stone bath, optional. River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing. Overnight Paro Day 9 : Depart from Paro International Airport Our representative will bid you farewell at the Airport. Tashi Delek!

Day 1 : Arrive Paro International Airport by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines Welcome to Bhutan “the Kingdom of Happiness.” As you touch down, you will be received with “tashi khada” by your guide and driver at the airport and driven to the town for welcome tea and refreshment. (Please note; your itinerary shall be flexible and you can skip few sightseeing if you wish to rest more. Your guide will give you options based on your interest) Paro & Thimphu Acclimatization Day! • Get blessings at the oldest temple Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king. • Visit Paro Ta Dzong, an ancient watch tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia. • Rinpung Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels.” • In evening drive to Thimphu (drive 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. • Free to roam around Thimphu town on your own or with your guide. Overnight THIMPHU (Alt; 2320m). Day 2 : Thimphu Cultural & Happiness Tour. • Drive to Sangay-gang where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is found in captivity. This hill is also called the “romantic point” as lovers often come here to enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. • Visit Buddha Gang, which offers a spectacular view of Thimphu city. This giant Buddha-statue overlooking Thimphu is one of the biggest in the world. • Optional; walk to the Happiness Garden 500 meters along a beautiful nature trail to plant various species of trees like Rhododendron, Maple, Oak, Cheery & Blue Pine. In advance we will keep your pit dug, saplings ready with your name placard. The placard will have your name and address and the photograph of the tree’s growth will be mailed to you quarterly. (fees not included in package about $5 to $8 per tree) • Visit the General Post Office. You can create personalized postage stamps with your own photo for souvenir or sent home on postcard. • National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved. They also have on display the largest Picture Book on Bhutan in the world. • Zorig Chusum “School for Thirteen Traditional Arts and Crafts” followed by a visit to Craft Bazaar for authentic local handicraft and souvenir. • Circumambulate around Memorial chorten (huge stupa). This is the favorite spot for the locals of all age to chant mantras, prostrate, pray and practice their devotion. • The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body. • In the evening walking tour, in Thimphu city; Hongkong market, Norzin lam, Main traffic area, Wogzin lam, Clock tower etc. • Dinner in Gho & Kira (Bhutan’s national dress), if interested. Overnight THIMPHU (Alt; 2320m) Day 3 : Gangtey Valley Rural Expedition (155km/ 4-5hr) • Drive on different vegetation of alpine, subtropical and glacial. Phobjikha is a glacial valley on the north western tip of the Black Mountain. It’s also one of the roosting grounds of the Black-necked cranes. • En route stop by Dochula pass (3150m) to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. Stroll around 108 stupas and enter Drukwangyel (Royal temple). • On arrival, embark on the Nature trail hike (2hr) across the refreshing Blue-pine forest to Kwewa village (1hr hike). Try homemade tea & local snacks at village home. Interact with the monks at Kewa Monastery. • Visit the Crane Info Centre to watch the Black Necked Cranes in their natural inhabitants • Free to walk around village or drive to your hotel for rest. Overnight PHOBJIKHA (2900m) Day 4 : Discovering Punakha & Wangdue (65km/ 2.5hr) • In morning, visit Gangtey gomba; the largest Nyingma Monastery of the kingdom. Interact with the monks and sit silently in the prayer room. • En route drive for mountain-view at Pele La pass (3,300m). It’s common to spot yaks along this pass. • On arrival, visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river. • Try walking on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village • Easy hike along the Metshina village to Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. Overnight PUNAKHA & WANGDUE (Alt; 1240m) Day 5 : Getaway to Dzongdakha & Paro Detour (171 km/ 5hr) • En route stop for coffee at Drukwangyel Café and enjoy distant snowcapped mountains. • After check in at Paro, visit the Dzongdakha Monastery. This ancient beautiful monastery is also a pilgrim spot for the locals. • Witness an archery match played by locals with lots of hue and cry! • In evening, leisurely stroll around Paro town and shop for souvenir. Overnight PARO (Alt; 2280m) Day 6 : Excursion to Mystical Taktsang • After a wholesome breakfast, walk in the ruins of Drugyel fortress and feel the ancient Bhutan on the way back hike up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. Tiger’s Nest clings to sheer cliffs of 900m above Paro valley. The climb is steep and takes about 4-5hrs round trip. • Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view. • In evening; if interested, you have an option to learn the art of cooking some famous Bhutanese delicacies like Ema Datsi, Kewa Datsi and Bjasha Maru at the farmer’s house. • Authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.” • Hot stone bath, optional. River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing. Overnight PARO Day 7 : Depart from Paro International Airport by Drukair or Bhutan Airlines Our representative will bid you farewell at the airport. TashiDelek!

Day 1: Paro Sights and Thimphu Acclimatization Day After flying in to the Paro Airport, your guide will greet you with a Tashi Khada, or traditional Bhutanese scarf. Head straight for your hotel in Thimpu for a quick rest and to drop-off your belongings. You’ll begin your excursion by visiting 2 stunning Buddhist temples, Kichu Lhakhang and Rinpung Dzong, before heading to the Ta Dzong Museum in the evening to see a collection of Bhutanese antiquities. Afterwards, drive to your hotel in Thimphu to spend your first night in the kingdom of the Himalayas. Day 2: Discovering Punakha and Wangdue Jump straight into exploration of the region with a 3-hour drive along the Dochula Pass, a Himalayan mountain road rising over 10,000 feet above sea level. Afterwards, head to the Druk Wangyel royal temple, and continue the day by hiking up to the 15th-century fertility temple, Chimi Lhakhang. You’ll spend your 2nd night in the valley community of Punakha and Wangdue. Day 3: Trongsa and Bumthang’s Landscape Tour Leaving Punakha and Wangdue, drive over 120 miles through the country’s Himalayan mountain passes. Make a stop nearly 11,000 feet above sea level at the Pele La Pass before driving through the Rukubji Valley and Chendebji Chorten Stupa. Gaze out over the vast scenery beneath you from 11,200 feet above sea level as you cross the Yotong La Pass. Pass through the Yathra weaving center and Kharchu Draktsang, the largest Buddhist college in the kingdom, before ending your 7-to-8-hour drive at your hotel in Bumthang. Day 4: Bumthang Spiritual Sightseeing Spend your morning exploring some of the country’s most spiritual locales, starting with Jakar Dzong, known as the Fortress of the White Bird. After lunch, you’ll hike to vast and ornate temples such as Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Pema Sambha Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. Continue hiking to Mebar Tsho, a lush pool formed by a rushing river that is one of Bhutan’s most sacred water features, and Wangdichholing Palace, the first palace of the present Wangchuk dynasty. In the evening, enjoy free time to wander the valleys before staying another night in Bumthang. Day 5: Gangtey Rural Expedition Depart from Bumthang in the morning for a 5-to-6-hour drive to the glacial valley of Phobjikha. Visit the largest and perhaps most spectacular fortress in Bhutan, the Trongsa Dzong, before continuing on to a 1.5-hour hike through blue-pine forests to Kwewa Village. Head to the Crane Info Center to gain insight into the migratory birds that play an essential role in Bhutanese culture. Afterwards, you’ll head to your hotel in Phobjikha. Day 6: Phobjikha and Thimphu Happiness Tour After breakfast, you’ll take a 4-to-5-hour drive to Thimphu through more stunning mountain vistas. Visit the 169-foot-tall Buddha Dordenma statue, one of the largest in the world, which contains 125,000 8-to-12-inch buddha statues within it. Come evening, you’ve got some free time to relax — enjoy dinner at a local Bhutanese restaurant before calling it a day at your hotel in Thimphu. Day 7: Thimphu Cultural Tour  Start your day by heading to the Royal Takin Preserve, a conservation area for Bhutan’s unique national animal. Visit the General Post Office, where you can create custom stamps, before heading to a craft bazaar for authentic local handicrafts and souvenirs. You’ll also stop at the Farmers Weekend Market to marvel at a cornucopia of local produce, and then witness an archery match. Afterwards, head back to your hotel in Thimphu. Day 8: Getaway to Kila Gomba and Paro Sojourn After breakfast, head straightaway on a 2-to-3-hour drive up the Chelela Pass, 12,500 feet above sea level, stopping for views of the stunning Mt. Chomolhari, which rises 23,400 feet above sea level. Take an easy walk to the Kila Nunnery temple, and then drive up to the monastery (optional). After a picnic lunch overlooking vast mountain chasms, you’ll head back into the Paro Valley. Visit the remote Dzongdakha Monastery, built along sheer rock faces overlooking vast forests beneath. Afterwards, you’ll head to Paro to your hotel. Day 9: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery Begin your day with a hike up to the Taktsang Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most iconic sights. Built directly into the cliffs, 3000 feet above the valley floor, the vast complex of monasteries is truly a sight to behold. Sit together inside the speech room just above the cave where Guru Rimpoche, one of Bhutan’s most important religious figures, meditated in the 8th century. Have lunch at the hillside cafe, gazing at the stunning views. You’ll finish your trip off with a farewell dinner at a farmhouse with ara, a traditional local liquor, followed by an optional hot stone bath. Head back to your hotel for your last night in Paro. Day 10: Departure from Paro International Airport Your tour guide will bid you farewell at the Airport, ending the blissful excursion across the diverse, other-worldly, and altogether spectacular sights and culture of Bhutan.

Detailed Itinerary: Day 01 - Arrival at Paro (by Druk Air) then transfer to Thimphu The flight into Paro on Bhutan's national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of the country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks give way to the lush green Paro valley as you land. The first gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the plane. After clearing customs and visa control you will drive you to Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan. The drive will take around 1 hour. Thimphu has a population of about 98,000. The town is made up of just three lines of shops and is the only capital in the world without traffic lights. Overnight at a hotel. Day 02 - Sightseeing in and around Thimphu In the morning we first stop at Bhutan’s National Bank to exchange currency as well as visit the post office to view and purchase elaborate and exquisite Bhutanese collector item stamps. We then will visit the National Memorial Chorten which was built in 1974 in memory of the third king. Also, the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved and the Takin Reserve which protects the national animal of Bhutan. After lunch visit the Textile Museum and the Arts and Crafts School. A visit to the House of Incense and House of Paper are always favorites as well. Overnight at a hotel. Day 03 - Drive from Thimphu to Punakha for a day’s sightseeing and return to Thimphu Leaving Thimphu we drive about 3 hours, with the road climbing steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near the Dochula Pass (3,050m). This pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges on a clear day. You will see Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Junipers and pine forests with chirping sounds of the many rare species of birds found in Bhutan. We drive onto Lobesa to take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. It is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility. Driving North to the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 which strategically occupies the land between the two rivers Phochu and Mochu. After our day of sightseeing we head back to Thimphu. Overnight at a hotel. Day 04 - Leaving Thimphu we drive towards Paro with sightseeing along the way An early morning drive towards Paro we stop to visit the Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum and visit Paro’s Rimpung Dzong, along the way down we cross the 16th century cantilever bridge. Also visiting the Drugyel Dzong victory fortress, built in 1647 which is 18 kilometers from the Paro town. Explore the magnificent ramparts of the erstwhile fortress which defended the country against several incursions. On a clear day one can also view the sacred Mount Jomolhari, from the northern battlements. We take a visit to a farm house and observe the traditional Bhutanese way of life and living. Overnight at a hotel. Day 05 - Excursion to the Taktsang Monastery (The Tiger's Nest) The trail to the Tiger's Nest climbs through beautiful Pine and rhododendron forests. You stop at the cafeteria which offers magnificent up close views of the tigers nest for refreshments. Then we continue the hike for short while until you see Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900m into the valley below. History states that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tiger and meditated here for three months. Overnight at a hotel. Day 06 - Transfer to international airport for your final departure After breakfast our airport representative will drop you at the Paro International Airport for your flight departure from Bhutan.