Bhutan: Realm of Dragons & Happiness

This private tour of Bhutan will introduce you to a land where Buddhist cultures and local traditions are deeply ingrained in the nation's psyche. Officially known at Druk Yul, which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is a country of mountain landscapes, where the Himalayan mountain range trails off into verdant forests of pine and rhododendron. Dubbed the Switzerland of Europe, the peaceful landlocked kingdom of Bhutan is shrouded in mystery. Famously known for its policy of Gross National Happiness over Gross Domestic Product, this tailor-made holiday to Bhutan begins with a thrilling flight from Kathmandu over the Himalaya mountains to Paro. Continue to Bhutan’s compact capital Thimphu, cosmopolitan by Bhutanese standards, where your holiday will begin with a choice of informative museums and exploration on foot. If your stay falls over a weekend, a visit to the colourful city market is a must. From Thimphu, continue by road in a private vehicle, accompanied by your guide, via Wangdue Phodrang and across the Dochula Pass to Phobjikha Valley, home of the protected Black-Necked Cranes. You won’t want to miss the Gangtey 360° hike for panoramic views of Phobjikha Valley and the surrounding snowcapped peaks of the Himalayan mountain range before continuing to Punakha. Punakha’s location in a warm and fertile sub-tropical valley makes it one of the most appealing places in Bhutan to enjoy a spot of hiking and there are options to suit all abilities. Another highlight is Punakha’s glorious dzong, with its strategic riverside location. A relaxed picnic on the banks of the Mo Chhu with the opportunity to try your hand at the national sport of archery, or another popular Bhutanese pastime, khuru (a form of outdoor darts), provides the opportunity to experience life the Bhutanese way. Your final destination in Bhutan is Paro where you will visit Taktsang monastery, better-known as Tiger’s Nest, one of the most revered places in Bhutan.