Very hard, very demanding, very cold, VERY REWARDING. The first view of a snow leopard, like my first encounter with a tiger, was highly emotional and, unashamedly, induced tears !
This 8-day adventure through Bhutan is a captivating journey through a land where ancient traditions meet modern aspirations. From the moment you arrive at Paro International Airport, often hailed as the world's most beautiful, you'll be immersed in a realm of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
Explore historic fortresses like Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, now a museum housing exquisite artifacts. Discover the art of incense making, hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery perched on a cliff, and witness the unique Takin, Bhutan's national animal. Journey over high mountain passes, visit sacred temples, and wander through bustling markets in the capital city of Thimphu.
But this tour offers more than just sightseeing. You'll experience authentic Bhutanese life with a homestay in the Phobjikha Valley, sharing meals and stories with a local family. You'll witness the resilience of Bhutanese architecture at the ruined Wangdue Phodrang Dzong and perhaps even catch the excitement of an archery tournament.
This is a journey that will awaken your senses, challenge your body, and nourish your soul. It's an opportunity to connect with a culture that values happiness and harmony, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
We've carefully selected some of our departure dates to coincide with Bhutan's vibrant tsechus – religious festivals that bring the dzongs (fortresses) to life with colorful masked dances, lively processions, and unique cultural performances. These festivals offer a rare glimpse into Bhutan's spiritual heart and are a truly unforgettable experience.
To ensure you fully immerse yourself in these captivating celebrations, we may adjust the itinerary slightly on these special departure dates. This allows us to maximize your time at the festivals and also takes into account the limited accommodation availability during these popular events.
Flights to Bhutan are available with Druk Air, the national airline, with convenient connections from Singapore, Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, and Kathmandu.
Want to extend your adventure beyond Bhutan? We offer a range of options to combine this tour with time in Nepal and/or India:
- Temples, Dzongs and Taj - This tour combines our Bhutan Encounters tour with an exploration of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal and time visiting Delhi and Agra (including the Taj Mahal) in India.
- Himalayan Kingdoms - This tour add times in Nepal before and after our Bhutan Encounters Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan, where timeless traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Your adventure begins in Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis where ancient culture and modern life coexist. Explore the peaceful grounds of the Meiji Jingu Shrine, stroll through the lively Tsukiji Fish Market, and admire the historic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. Next, escape the city to witness the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi, soar above the scenery on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, and visit the serene Arakurayama Sengen Park and traditional Oshino Hakkai Village. Unwind for the night in Hakone, known for its relaxing hot springs and scenic views. Continue to the charming town of Takayama, where you'll explore the vibrant Morning Market and the historic Kusakabe Folk Museum, showcasing traditional architecture and craftsmanship. From there, travel to the storybook village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its iconic thatched-roof houses at the Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum before arriving in Kanazawa. In Kyoto, immerse yourself in Japan’s cultural heart. Wander through the enchanting bamboo groves of Arashiyama, marvel at the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and climb the iconic paths lined with vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Before your journey ends, stop in Osaka to visit the magnificent Osaka Castle, a symbol of Japan’s feudal history. As your tour concludes, depart from Osaka with a heart full of unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Japan’s cultural and natural wonders.
Heaven is a place on earth. And it’s right here in the Philippines. Get ready for the ultimate 18-day love affair with the best beaches, cities and seaside gems in all of Asia. You’ll sample local eats, snorkel & swim in the sparkling sea, chase waterfalls and soak in the most beautiful island sunsets you’ll ever see, all with included flights & Special Stays.
