Bhutan

Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu

The streets of Kathmandu's Old Town are a frenzy of bustling locals, ornate temples and wandering sacred cows. Take a stroll through the throng and stop in at a local Newari restaurant.

Day 2 Thimphu

Enter a different world after a short flight and winding drive. Bhutan's peaceful capital has no traffic lights - cars only arrived in 1962. Take time to chat with the locals and soak up some of the country's 'Gross National Happiness'. See the National Library's priceless collection of Buddhist manuscripts, visit the Folk Heritage Museum and stop in at a nunnery.

Days 3-4 Punakha

Cross the Dochu La Pass and take in spectacular views of the Bhutan Himalaya. Stop to see the wooden thunderbolt of Chimi Lhakhang and visit one of Bhutan's most beautiful monasteries.

Day 5 Gangte Region

Journey across the Pele Pass to Gangte. Explore Phobjikha Valley, a wonderfully remote area without telephones or regular power, and visit the lovely Gangte Goemba.

Days 6-7 Paro

Home to Bhutan's unusual red rice, Paro is the base for exploring the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong and the dramatic Rinpung Dzong. Tour the National Museum, housed in an original watchtower, and drive out to the beautiful Kyichu Lhakhang. A trek to Taktshang Goemba, the famed 'Tiger’s Nest' monastery miraculously perched high above the valley floor, is a definite must-do.

Days 8-9 Kathmandu

Return to the colour and bustle of Kathmandu and visit some of the city's best sites including Durbar Square, Bodhnath stupa and Swayambhunath 'Monkey Temple'.