Highlights
The Tiger's Nest Monastery
For a true experience of spiritual Bhutan – the last Himalayan Kingdom in which Buddhist traditions have lasted for centuries – take an unforgettable trip to the jewel in the country’s crown: Taktshang Goemba, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Perched incredibly on the side of a cliff, 900m above the floor of Paro Valley, the goemba is truly breathtaking, housing four intricately designed temples that still function as a working monastery today. After an utterly worthwhile uphill hike, join an expert guide as you discover the stunning site’s sacred caves, striking carvings and traditional chapels.
Dzongs
Beguiling Bhutan is dotted with numerous striking dzongs – fort monasteries that were historically built in places of strategic military importance, housing many of the region’s significant relics and texts. Now vibrant hubs of religious and cultural activity – as well as important regional administration centres – Bhutan’s iconic forts are well worth exploring. The second to be built in Bhutan, in 1637, and one of the country’s most beautiful, Punakha Dzong is the winter residence of the central body of monks. The majestic Trashi Chho Dzong sits seamlessly in the stunning valley, whilst Paro Dzong boasts some of Bhutan’s most marvellous architecture.
Mountains
Nestled between powerful China and India, the remote Kingdom of Bhutan stands in the striking 7000-metre-high Himalayan Mountains, boasting utterly flawless scenery. Offering one of the last truly pristine locations in the entire Himalaya, environmental protection is of utmost importance; by law, at least 60% of the country must remain forested for all future generations. Take a once-in-a-lifetime guided excursion as you explore the beautiful country’s dramatic glacial river valleys and majestic, snow-capped mountain peaks that rise up out of lush forests, enjoying truly breathtaking views and encountering fascinating wildlife.
Wildlife Encounters
Thanks to its variety of climatic conditions and countless national parks, Bhutan – despite its small size – is home to a remarkable abundance of flora and fauna, making it among the most biologically diverse regions in the world. One of the most important wildlife preserves in the country, the Phobijika glacial valley – bordering Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park on the western slopes of the Black Mountains – houses a spectacularly large flock of Black-necked Cranes in the winter, as well as Mutjacs, wild boars, Himalayan Black Bears, leopards, Sambar Deer, Serows and Red Foxes.