A Golden October light over the Paro Valley, Bhutan
A short and sweet program savoring the beautiful fall season of Bhutan
~ 10 Days
If you are short on time yet would like to enjoy Bhutan during a tranquil lull at one of the best times of year weather-wise, this is your trip. This program was originally created for an American friend and her mother who saw pictures of Bhutan in National Geographic many years ago and has since desired to experience the kingdom. Includes highlights of the western valleys with a stop at Gangtey Monastery to perhaps coincide with the return of Bhutan's rare Black Necked Cranes.
ITINERARY IN BRIEF
Days 1: Arrive in Paro, national museum tour with evening transfer to the capital, Thimphu. | Day 2: Transfer to Wangdue Valley with a stop at the Dochula Pass with views of the greater Himalayan peaks. | Day 3: Visit the historic Punakha Dzong, or "Palace of Great Bliss". hike to the Jigme Yueley Namgyal pagoda. | Day 4: Transfer to the Phobjikha Valley, home of wintering Black Necked Cranes (If we are lucky we may see the first flocks arriving from the Tibetan plateau). | Day 5: Relaxed walking tour of the valley. Afternoon transfer to Wangdue. | Day 6: Return to the capital, with a visit to the dramatic ridgetop Wangdue fortress. Evening stroll through downtown Thimphu. | Day 7: Explore the colorful and bustling weekend farmer's market in the capital. Relaxed afternoon at the National Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum. | Day 8: Attend a traditional dance performance at the Royal Academy of Performing Arts. Dinner reception with Bhutanese guests. | Day 9: Transfer to Paro. Hike to Tiger's Nest monastery. | Day 10: Depart for Bangkok or another gateway city.
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