THIS MONTH'S FEATURED Travel Snapshots Meet some of our past guests: active, curious and cultural travelers. In other words, enthusiasts about the world just like you. We hope some of these snapshots will tickle your own brand of wanderlust, and inspire you to join one of our upcoming adventures! READ ABOUT OUR GUESTS Bhutan Himalaya Feb 13, 2018 1 min An Intimate Affair Avid birders Dayton and Sheri were an instant hit on our annual Wings of Prayer signature journey. They were willing to get up earlier... 53 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Dec 26, 2017 2 min A Fairy Tale Ending We knew our guests Randy and Angella liked each other when they came on our annual Blessings of Bhutan journey. What we didn't know was... 71 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 More Suggested Reading FEATURE ARTICLES FOR YOUR INFORMATION INSIGHTS LEARN MORE LONG READS GOING DEEPER TRIP ARCHIVES PAST JOURNEYS

Trans Bhutan Trail Stage 1: The Trek from Paro to Haa via the Kaley La pass INSIDE INFO ​ Bhutan Himalaya Editors ​ With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! ​ Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter Share Share ​ Starting Point: Paro 2000m/6,800ft Paro is a picturesque valley town known for its serene landscapes, traditional architecture, and historic sites. The trek begins from this charming town, offering views of lush rice fields, quaint villages, and the iconic Paro Dzong, a fortress-monastery that stands as a testament to Bhutanese history and culture. Initial Ascent The trek starts with a steady ascent, taking you through thick pine forests and past vibrant rhododendron bushes, especially beautiful in the spring. The trail is well-marked and maintained, providing a clear path amidst the dense foliage. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler, and the sounds of the valley below fade into a tranquil silence. ​ Highest point: Kalela, approximately 3,500m/11,450ft After a few hours of trekking, you will reach Kalela Pass, which sits at an elevation of around 3,500 meters (11,450 feet). This pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the distance. Kalela is a great spot to rest, take photos, and soak in the breathtaking scenery. ​ Descent into Haa Valley From Kalela, the trail begins its descent into the Haa Valley. The path winds through green meadows, past traditional yak herding areas, and alongside crystal-clear streams. The descent is gentle, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape at a relaxed pace. Near the end of the trail we take you to visit a beautiful cliffside temple where you have to squeeze between two large boulders to enter. Inside are rare paintings, including those of the goddesses of compassion, protection and wisdom. ​ ​ Arrival in Haa As you approach the Haa Valley, you will notice a change in the landscape, with the valley opening up to reveal expansive fields and traditional Bhutanese homes and raised cultivated fields. Haa is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich heritage. The valley is relatively less frequented by tourists, making it a perfect detour for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ THE TREK FROM Paro to Haa on the Trans Bhutan Trail via Kalela is a captivating journey that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a touch of adventure. This route covers approximately 25 kilometers and can be completed in a day, depending on your pace and preference for exploring the surroundings. To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan A luxe spiritual sojourn in Bhutan Discover a primal springtime festival and journey overland from central to west Bhutan Trekking Bhutan's majestic Mount Gangkhar Puensum with acclimatization hikes on the Trans Bhutan Trail Explore Bhutan when wild rhododendrons bloom Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons Discover Bhutan’s vibrant Warriors Pageant Celebrate the annual return of Bhutan’s endangered Black-necked Cranes Bhutan Abundance The pristine high trek to Treasure Lake Trekking Bhutan’s Jomolhari Basin The Heart of Happiness View all journeys Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

The 10 best mask dances to see in Bhutan if you're traveling during the spring & fall festival 'Tshechu' seasons INSIDE INFO July 13, 2022 Bhutan Himalaya Editors ​ With thoughtful itineraries honed since 1999, we unveil the depths of Bhutan's happiness philosophy, the daily physical adventures through the beautiful Himalayan landscape complemented by the intimate and in-depth cultural experiences sensitively curated for you every day. Questions? Get in touch with us Through the eyes of a select few informed leaders we saw the dilemmas of a culture: A hitherto sheltered nation discovering the arguments for and against remaining a cloistered society in this 21st Century. I loved the adventure, and I loved the discovery. Unlike anything else I have ever experienced! ​ Lola W., California Get similar features & travel information straight to your inbox with the Bhutan Himalaya Newsletter Share Share The Dance of the Drums of Dramitse (pictured above), is among the primary ‘vision’ dances, or Chaams, of Bhutan. 10. Dance of the Drums of Dramitse (locally, Dramitse Nga Cham ) Recognized as a “Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage” by UNESCO, this dance features 16 performers wearing exotic masks representing real and mythic animals. Among them are the vulture-headed Garuda , the Dragon, the Snow Lion, Tiger, Bear, Pig, and Dog, each one representing a different form of enlightened energy. The dancers wear colorful silk skirts, stylized shoulder mantles, waist-length felt or brocade jackets, and crossed sashes front and back with decorative elements. The ritual music of skin drums—which the dancers beat with a long, curved stick in time to their steps—and monks playing the oboe, longhorns, bells, and hand-held cymbals, adds a rich and layered ambiance to the performance. The dance depicts visions of the heavenly court of Padmasambhava (patron saint of the Himalayas) described by the Buddhist sage Kunga Gyeltshen in the early sixteenth century. Today this regional dance from Dramitse in eastern Bhutan is a familiar crowd-pleaser at most state celebrations and annual Tshechu festivals across the kingdom. 9. The Black Hat Dance (Locally, Zhanak Cham ) Bhutan’s answer to Istanbul’s whirling dervishes, the black hat dancers perform this spinning, mesmerizing dance with similar trance-like intensity. The flowing brocade robes, the blaring temple music, and the intricate ritual accouterments make this dance compelling. Although the dancers appear without masks, the vibrant costumes, the somber ceremony, and its deep religious significance for the Bhutanese make the Black Hat Dance a worthy candidate for our list. The gracefully turning dancers gather speed as the performance moves along, their graceful movements and secret hidden meanings purifying the space and generating the dynamic forces of altruism and spiritual liberation. A Black Hat 'Shanag' dancer in ceremonial silks performs in a trance-like state 8. The Dance of the Stags and Hounds (locally, Shawa Shachi ) The Dance of the Stags and Hounds is an immensely watchable comic-lyric play with an uncomplicated plot progression. A proud hunter, his manservant, and their vicious hounds chase a frightened stag that seeks the protection of Milarepa, the great tenth-century Himalayan yogi, who gives religious teachings that cause the men to give up hunting and devote their lives to Buddhist compassion. The first act opens with the playful air of a Shakespearean comedy, with the hunter’s obtuse manservant and several jesters causing much of the laughter and the fun. The second half evolves into a lesson on Buddhist morality, sung in poetic verse, that devout Bhutanese Buddhists generally take to heart. The Dance of the Stags and Hounds is a comic-lyric play drawn from a famous episode in the life of the tenth-century Himalayan yogi, Milarepa. 7. Dance of the Noblemen and Ladies (Locally, Pholek Molek ) Played in the vein of a comic farce—think A Midsummer Night’s Dream —this play-dance has two couples (each a nobleman and a lady) who arrive dressed in traditional finery and masks that emphasize the men’s good looks and the pleasing feminine qualities of the women. Other characters include a lascivious crone and an assortment of lewd clowns. The men leave for battle, giving tokens of remembrance and saying tender goodbyes to their wives. As soon as the men go, the clowns stir up trouble, seducing the wives with the rude older woman alternately helping and hindering their attempts to sleep with two young ladies. Confusion and comedy ensue. The men return to learn what has happened. They fly into a jealous rage and fight with the clowns. Finally, the gentlemen and the ladies reconcile. This improvisational, folksy nature of the comedy makes this performance fun to watch, so long as one doesn’t examine the plot too closely. The Dance of the Noblemen and Ladies is a morality play that is earthy, irreverent, and rustic in its humorous take on the follies and foibles of men and women. The Achey Lhamo is an ancient, rarely seen traditional mask dance from the far eastern horizons of Bhutan, including the valleys of Merak and Sakteng. 6. Dance of the Divine Sisters (locally, Achey Lhamo ) This rarely seen dance from Bhutan’s far-flung eastern regions of Merak and Sakteng makes our list for its fascinating origins and atmosphere. According to legend, the great fifteenth-century spiritual adept, religious architect, and bridge builder Drubthob Thangthong Gyalpo gathered seven sisters together and taught them the Achey Lhamo dance. As they danced, Thangthong Gyalpo played on the skin drums and collected fees to help pay for a bridge to improve access in one of Tibet’s remote regions. In time the dancers became so popular that the people began calling them Lhamo , or goddesses. The name stuck and became Achey (Sisters) Lhamo (Goddesses). The staccato beat of the skin drums; the energetic, leaping dancers; the rudimentary masks fashioned from yak hair, wool, and animal skin all serve to heighten this dance’s primal atmosphere. It is among the handful of religious dances performed by the lay population rather than monks. 5. The Dance of the Fearsome Drums (locally, Ging Tsholing ) As the dance’s local name implies, there are two sets of dancers in this performance. The Tsholing dancers, wearing fearsome masks, represent a class of wrathful deities who take on terrifying aspects to destroy negative tendencies. They wear red and maroon robes and make slow, graceful movements, brandishing long silken banners to summon evil influences in the world before dispatching them. The Ging , in similarly colorful masks, wear leopard print pantaloons and tiger-stripe skirts. In contrast to the slower, more graceful rhythms of the Tsholing , the Ging leap, whirl, and beat their drums vigorously as they run through the crowds, tapping on people’s heads with the drumsticks in a ritual spiritual cleansing. They chase fleeing spectators gleefully through the crowds and lean precariously out of tall windows and balconies while drumming vigorously, a fact that underlines their impressive stamina and prowess. Watching the two sets of dancers and their contrasting performance styles makes for an alternately meditative and thrilling experience. Athletic and vigorous, the fearsome Ging mask dancers of Bhutan are a thrill to watch. A high-ranking Buddhist abbot in the titular role of the legendary Himalayan King Gesar of Ling 4. The Dance of the Great Warrior King Gesar of Ling (locally, Gesar Ling Cham ) This dance presents a visually stunning performance of excerpts from the 12th century (oral) epic of the mythic Himalayan King Gesar of Ling. King Gesar and his warriors appear in shining armor, intricately carved breastplates, and royal brocades. Performers play battle scenes in period military regalia. There are the usual ceremonial temple music and chanting of the Buddhist sutras, but the martial drumming, the elaborate orchestration, and the vibrant costumes take center stage. Exciting interludes to the main feature include an energetic Tibetan Snow Lion Dance (Sengye Cham ). 3. Lords of the Charnel Grounds (locally, Dhurdag Cham ) A spectacular dance performed in white full-body costumes, the principal dancers appear wearing bony skeletal death masks. They rake long, ghoulish fingernails through the air as they backbend, spin, and dance with agility. In Tantric Buddhism, the skeletons represent powerful spirits and deities who destroy negative human tendencies of fear, attachment, ego-grasping, and judgmental perceptions, which constitute obstacles to Buddhist enlightenment. In this view, the charnel grounds are transformational power spots because, in such spaces, one confronts the body’s impermanence to attain spiritual clarity. Thus a symbolic killing by the Lords of the Charnel Grounds toward the end of the dance represents the ego’s death. Stark and gripping, this dance is a palate-cleanser for the other color-saturated performances you may see at the same event. 'The Lords of the Charnel Grounds' represent supernatural beings who 'destroy' the human tendencies of ego-grasping and attachment-forming seen as obstacles to enlightenment 2. The Eight Forms of the Precious Guru Padmasambhava (locally, Guru Tshen Gye ) This dance is among the most anticipated events in what is usually a multi-day Tshechu festival celebration. It begins with Guru Padmasambhava, the great 8th-century spiritual hero and patron saint of the Himalayas. A senior monk playing the role appears on the scene bedecked, bejeweled, and escorted in a regal procession—including silken parasols, shining mystic banners, musical fanfare, crowds monks, and civilians. A reverent hush falls over everyone as the Guru, clad in royal silks, and wearing a beatific golden smile, makes his way through the crowd. The Bhutanese audience members strain to reach for a blessing from the Guru’s heavy golden hand. Making the moment powerful is the Bhutanese understanding that trained practitioners can channel divine presence through rigorous monastic practices, meditation, trance-work, and visualization. Next, dancers embodying the Guru’s eight classical forms appear. They give superb performances in correspondingly impressive masks and costumes. The final dancer enacts the destruction of the hostile energies in the world. Finally, the Guru departs amid a crescendo of oboes, longhorns, cymbals, drums, fluttering flags, and banners, leaving a profoundly moved audience, some of whom appear tearful. Sheltered under silken parasols, the beatific Guru Padmasambhava (in gold mask) srrives in a procession ahead of the 'Dance of the Eight Forms of the Precious Guru Padmasambhava,' Guru Tshen Gye 1. Judgment of the Dead (locally, Raksha Mangcham ) This dance gets our top billing for spectacle, folksy humor, and spiritual depth. A towering, red-faced figure of the Lord of Death moves in an impressive procession around the performance grounds. Once he is seated, his animal-headed minions go offstage to bring, alternately, two recently dead men for their judgments. The first man in a dark, tortured mask appears dressed as a hunter. His name is ‘The Great Sinner Destined for 100,000 Hells.’ The second dead man arrives wearing a white mask and holding a prayer book in his hand, signaling his virtue. His name loosely translated means ‘The Householder who was a Propagator of Peace and Tranquility.’ Thus begins an object lesson in the karmic fruits of good and evil. A Dark Demon and a White Angel each seek to alternately condemn and save the souls of the two dead men. Ultimately, despite the angel’s best efforts to help the sinner, the condemned man’s lapses far outweigh his good deeds, and, consequently, the demon drags him away by his feet to the lower realms for his punishment. Fortunately for the man in white, his merits outweigh his sins, and he is escorted to the celestial realms with the angel as heavenly music plays overhead. This dance is an excerpted play drawn from the eighth-century classic Himalayan Buddhist text, the Bardo Thodrol , or Liberation through Understanding in the Between (popularly known in the West as The Tibetan Book of the Dead ). The voice-over narrations to the dance press the audience to practice kindness, compassion, and generosity while they still have time. They encourage the faithful to give up karmically burdensome habits such as killing, self-cherishing, and cruelty. This dance leaves viewers with many stunning impressions and a profound reflection on the perils of an unexamined life. Performed on an epic scale, the Dance of the Judgment of the Dead begins with the towering Lord of Death's arrival A Note on Atsaras, the 'Sacred Clowns' You'll see them at every festival, those leering pranksters who poke fun at the crowds and prod people (often with wood phalluses), spouting their sexual innuendos from behind wildly exaggerated, usually scarlet, masks. These 'clowns' sprinkle the proceedings with levity and prevent the heavily ceremonious religious performances from droning on. The name comes from the Sanskrit 'Acharya,' which means 'Honored Teacher,' and in the same way the learned Archaryas of India became the Buddhist teachers of the Himalayas—Atisha, Shantarakshita, and Naropa, to name a few—the Atsaras of today remind us to keep our feet firmly on the ground. In their antics poking fun at one and all, including religious figures, they teach the audience to not take their learning or spiritual accomplishments too seriously lest, becoming puffed up, they are propelled once more into the realm of ego-cherishing, which mires us in the coils of Samsara. If ego is the disease, their rude, often rustic antics are the antidote. By poking fun at us they invite us to examine our own failings and foibles with the light touch of humor. Atsaras or 'festival clowns' bring the laughs in Bhutan's grand religious festivals ​ ​ BHUTAN'S MASK DANCES are fascinating events where you can learn about Bhutanese culture and the rich mythic cosmology of the Himalayas. Here’s our take on Bhutan’s top 10 mask dances to see, based on our decades-long experience attending these annual festivals all across the country. Our team shares what makes each one unique and why they make great additions to any Bhutan travel itinerary. To receive similar updates in your inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit Swipe left above for more See our upcoming journeys In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan A luxe spiritual sojourn in Bhutan Discover a primal springtime festival and journey overland from central to west Bhutan Trekking Bhutan's majestic Mount Gangkhar Puensum with acclimatization hikes on the Trans Bhutan Trail Explore Bhutan when wild rhododendrons bloom Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons Discover Bhutan’s vibrant Warriors Pageant Celebrate the annual return of Bhutan’s endangered Black-necked Cranes Bhutan Abundance The pristine high trek to Treasure Lake Trekking Bhutan’s Jomolhari Basin The Heart of Happiness View all journeys Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

Project Name Two 2023 Client Name Two I'm a paragraph. I'm connected to your collection through a dataset. To update me, go to the Data Manager. The Data Manager is where you store data to use in your site pages, or collect data from site visitors when they submit a form. This collection in the Data Manager is already set up with some fields and content. To customize it with your own content, you can import a CSV file or simply edit the placeholder text. You can also add more fields which you can connect to other page elements so the content displays on your published site. Remember to sync the collection so your content is live! You can add as many new collections as you need to store or collect data. With Presets, we’ve handled the page set up for you, but you can create the exact same functionality in your other site pages. To connect page elements to data, the first step is to add a dataset to the page and choose the collection you want to use. From the dataset Settings panel, you can filter or sort the available items, decide how your users can interact with the page (read/write), and more. Next, select the element you want to connect to the data, and choose the field you want to connect it to. So simple! If you want to add even more capabilities, enable Developer Tools to use JavaScript and APIs to add custom interactions and functionality to your site. To see what’s possible and get answers to your questions, check out the Wix Code Forum. Previous Next

THIS MONTH'S Insights Dig deeper, get cultural. Whether you're looking to join one of our upcoming trips, planning future travel to Bhutan, or simply curious about this unconventional slice of happiness we call the "Land of the Peaceful Dragon" we hope you find something here to whet your travel appetite! READ OUR ARTICLES Bhutan Himalaya Dec 13, 2019 4 min Hot tips for trekking the Laya-Gasa route The Laya-Gasa Trek traverses the second largest national park in Bhutan, covering a distance of about 200 km or 124 miles. The first five... 82 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Feb 6, 2019 3 min 2024, Year of the Wood Dragon: Celebrating Losar, the Himalayan New Year Losar is a time for fun, family, and feasting in Bhutan. 130 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 More Suggested Reading TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS GUEST VIGNETTES FEATURE ARTICLES FOR YOUR INFORMATION LONG READS GOING DEEPER TRIP ARCHIVES PAST JOURNEYS

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THIS MONTH'S Featured Articles Our in-house stories & features on all things Bhutanese. We want to further your understanding & appreciation for our beautiful corner of the Himalayas! While we're mostly busy in the field leading trips, we will be posting when we can, so please keep checking back more... LEARN MORE Bhutan Himalaya Jan 14, 2020 10 min The people and the landscape of Bhutan’s Mountain Goddess: a Photo Essay As we open our 2020 fall expedition to the base of Bhutan’s Mount Jomolhari (slated for October), our Travel Programs Coordinator, Karma... 246 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Dec 19, 2019 5 min The King’s Speech On December 17th, the 112th National Day of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fifth King of Bhutan, shared his... 1,419 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 More Suggested Reading TRAVEL SNAPSHOTS GUEST VIGNETTES INSIGHTS LEARN MORE LONG READS GOING DEEPER TRIP ARCHIVES PAST JOURNEYS

| SLIDESHOW | WARRIORS PROCESSION | Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. Swipe left on image for Next Slide; right for Previous Slide; scroll down for caption READ CAPTION 1. "The Palace of Great Bliss" Stone-faced, burly and forbidding, the warriors are suddenly all smiles and grins, showing crimson teeth stained by beetle-juice. The fierce men lined up moments earlier for the group photograph are modern-day descendants of Bhutan's Pazaaps, a centuries-old citizen's militia charged with safeguarding holy relics within the fortified ramparts of western Bhutan's Dechen Punthang Phodrang or "Palace of Great Bliss," which straddles the confluence of two rivers, Mochu and Phochu, like a great white ship at anchor. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 2. A Group Photo Like their ancient forebears before them, the present-day Pazaaps have heavy spiked brass helmets with protective coverlets that run down the sides and backs of their heads. They carry lightweight shields made from woven cane with an outer covering of tough animal hide. Their bright red shoulder-to-knee ghos are made from a dense blend of yak hair and wool. Wrapped around their shoulders and their necks are durable lengths of dull raw silk which, used correctly, can stop a full frontal blow from a long sword. And yes, they are wearing swords; swords well over two-feet long and hanging swashbuckler-fashion from their waists or tucked at rakish angles into their belts. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 3. A Vibrant Festival Leaving me, the warriors disappear quickly into the shadowy passages on either side of the massive stone fortress—known colloquially as a dzong*—they have known all their lives. They are in a hurry because the Pazaaps and their cohorts are the main attraction today at the annual "Procession of Warriors", a grand festival blending religion, history and cultural spectacle in this part of the country we have invited our guests to attend. Each year, when winter gives up its hold on the countryside to an early spring and purple jacarandas start to bloom on the trees outside its walls, the grand halls and courtyards of this monumental monastery-fortress, one of the kingdom's finest, explodes in a riot of colors and sounds, a medieval pageant recounting one of the country's most important legends. ​ *Dzong: A Dzong is one of Bhutan's defining architectural landmarks. These grand monastery-fortresses house religious and administrative offices of provincial governors spiritual leaders. Similar to European castles in function, they serve as state capitol, Buddhist seminary, district court all rolled in one. At various times of the year they also become the venue of large communal celebrations such as the religious festivals that have been held on their grounds for centuries. There are 20 beautiful dzongs in Bhutan; one each in each of the 20 regions of the kingdom. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 4. The Great Unifier The story concerns a certain holy relic—the Rangjung Kharsapani*—a miraculous self-created image of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The holy artifact was brought to Bhutan in the early 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel—master-builder, administrator and, according to the history books, "The Great Unifier of Bhutan"—personified at the festival (above) by a high lama wearing a gold-paint mask. The fact that Shabdrung brought the sacred image to Bhutan among his prized spiritual possessions irked his powerful rivals in Tibet who promptly launched several military campaigns to reclaim it. Enter the Pazaap warriors, who were sworn in as its defenders. After several battles, Shabdrung and the ancestors of today's Pazaaps came up with an idea to put an end to the hostilities. During a lull in fighting, they formed a procession of monks and warriors to the Mochu river next to the dzong and pretended to throw the holy object in water. When the Tibetan forces saw that the Avalokitesvara image was now lost to all, they left, never to return. Unbeknownst to the Tibetans, however, the real relic was securely placed in a protected tower of the dzong, where it remains to this day. ​ *Rangjung Kharsapani: An exceedingly rare statue of the enlightened Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara believed to have appeared from the ashes of Tshangpa Gyari, one of the founders of the Drukpa or "Dragon" school of Buddhism practiced in Bhutan (because of this Bhutanese call themselves Drukpai Meyser, or “People of the Drukpa”). Following his cremation, the founder Tshangpa Gyari’s vertebrae are said to have turned themselves miraculously into 21 such miniature statues of Avalokiteshvara. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 5. A Pageant of Warriors A sudden blast of ceremonial music—drums, long horns, reedy pipes and clashing hand-held cymbals—announces the start of the day's festivities. Following the sounds of the music to the main outer courtyard of the dzong, I see the grand procession of warriors weaving its way from the ample grounds outside the fortress. Colorful swirling religious standards and pennants dominate the view on every side. As the procession moves closer, I can see that in addition to the foot soldiers like the ones I photographed earlier, there are proud commanders with gleaming helmets wearing flashy silks and brocades. They ride brightly festooned horses, led and followed by long lines of monks and monastics. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 6. Pomp and Ceremony Then, a flash of yellow, a quick gleam of reflection from round-rimmed glasses announcing the arrival of one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in the kingdom, His Holiness Je Khenpo, chief arbiter of all things monastic in Bhutan. The courtyards now fill up quickly with vibrantly dressed festival-goers in their best and brightest. Among the residents of the surrounding valleys of Punakha, are state guests, high officials, ministers and members of the kingdom's beloved royal family. The dignitaries take their seats in the elaborate upper viewing galleries of the dzong which includes the ceremonial seat of His Holiness Je Khenpo, who presides. In short order, the festivities begin in earnest. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 7. Dance of the Warriors A sudden explosion of fire-works accompanied by blood-curdling yells, whoops and whistles announces the entrance of our friends, the Pazaaps. Blades slice the air and shields rise to meet them. Faces contort fiercely, bodies twist and twirl. Drums beat, and feet leap in the air, a strenuous if effortless-seeming ballet telling a story about the brave and historic encounters of warriors past. ​ Re-enacting the battles of their forbears, Bhutan's Pazaap warriors preserve a vital aspect of the kingdom's cultural memory. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 8. The Deflection Suddenly, a plaintive cry, followed by more ceremonial music. The yellow-robed figure of the Je Khenpo rises, followed by his retinue of monks and ceremonial standard bearers. The re-enactment of the symbolic procession to the river includes Bhutan's chief abbot, His Holiness Je Khenpo (in yellow robes), modern day representatives of officials and nobility from the surrounding valleys and retinues of monks, musicians and warriors. The procession gradually makes its way out of the courtyard and down the stairs to the banks of the river. Bhutan's spiritual leader ceremonially throws something round and shiny into the river (I'm told it's an orange) symbolizing one of history's most unique peace-inducing deflections as well as an annual offering to the spirits of the river. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 9. Another Year Down by the river, I can see the Pazaaps celebrating, pumping their fists gleefully in the air. I hear their exuberant shouts and cries, and though I can't see their faces from the distance, I imagine them grinning ear to ear with red betel-stained teeth, marking yet another happy year of their lives. Watching the final act of a martial celebration in a country otherwise known for its peace and tranquility I have reached a personal conclusion. Despite the explosions, in spite of the fierce dances, the leaping, jousting and vigorous crossing of swords, this event is really about finding resolution. It is not so much about the pride and prowess of the Pazaap warriors as about defusing conflict, something we need more of in the world today. Slideshow of Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival Images from Bhutan's early-springtime festival. Scroll down to read caption details. Feature Article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. | Travel Itinerary at Procession of Warriors. READ CAPTION 10. Endnote Although there is no longer an expectation that the Pazaaps will ever see battle, the young men are still chosen for their ancestry, strength, intelligence, standing in the community and, to a certain extent, for their good looks and their physical stature. These three friends relax after their exertions at the festival with a young monk (at the edge of the frame). While their lives will lead them down very different paths, of householder and renunciation (in the case of the monk), their strong bonds of kinship will endure through the years enabled by the openness of Bhutanese society and the wide-ranging roles that those in the monasteries play in the lives of the average Bhutanese citizen, warriors and laymen. By Karma Dorji The annual festival of warriors ushers Bhutan's springtime festival travel season. The history of the Pazaaps (as the warriors are known) celebrates martial strength, the significance of sacred relics in Bhutan and a clever defusing of cross-border hostilities. To learn more, read the full article at Bhutan's Procession of Warriors Festival. To see dates and prices for an upcoming journey featuring the festival, see here. Like this? 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Bhutan In-depth We offer meaningful hand-crafted travel adventures and cultural journeys in the last Himalayan kingdom and beyond. ​ See our Signature Journeys Culture Curators We are your friends and guides through the rich mountain culture of Bhutan, each of our journeys led by insightful, indigenous local guides with deep ties of kinship across the kingdom. Start a conversation © Copyright © Copyright | PLAN YOUR BHUTAN TRIP Browse our small group adventures for 2023 & beyond | TRAVEL STORIES Some fun reads to whet your appetite | RECCOMMENDED READS What we're talking about Featured In the New York Times Read the NY Times article of the journey Recalculating Happiness in a Himalayan Kingdom by Seth Mydans See our journey designed to share the secrets of Bhutan's National Happiness policy at Heart of Happiness: Journey to Discover Bhutan's Gross National Happiness . We had the pleasure of arranging travel, research and interviews in Bhutan for NY Times Correspondent Seth Mydans & Times videographer Mariko Takayasu. Following the trip, Mariko produced a video with Christopher Flavelle of the New York Times called Measuring Happiness that appeared on the Times' website. The Raven Crown Royal Emblem of Bhutanese Kings — a two-part talk at the Asian Art Museum by Bhutan Himalaya's Travel Coordinator Karma Dorji PART-I : 13:59 PART-II : 9:00 See all posts See all stories In-depth cultural exploration of Bhutan Celebrate the annual return of Bhutan’s endangered Black-necked Cranes The pristine high trek to Treasure Lake See all journeys Bhutan’s Wild Wild East: A fascinating temple whose walls preserve a painful history of migration Hatching in the Himalaya: How the brown trout, a native of the British Isles, found a home in Bhutan’s lakes and rivers Traveling to learn about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness policy The people and the landscape of Bhutan’s Mountain Goddess: a Photo Essay The King’s Speech Top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2020 Search Travel Bhutan Abundance: A summer journey DEPARTURES Blessings of Bhutan Bhutan's Jomolhari Trek Heart of Happiness Trek to Treasure Lake On the Wings of Prayer Punakha's Pageant of Warriors Bhutan in the Time of Rhododendrons SEE ALL JOURNEYS Stories Hidden Lands of Happiness SPOTLIGHT Wild Wild East: How an ancient matriarch led her people to Bhutan Our top 10 reasons why you should visit Bhutan in 2023 How the brown trout came to Bhutan's lakes and rivers The top 10 mask dances to see in Bhutan Pomp & circumstance at Bhutan's warriors festival A journey to learn about Gross National Happiness SEE ALL STORIES Us The Bhutan Himalaya Difference ABOUT US Who we are The Bhutan Himalaya Difference What our travelers say Our Team Meet our latest hires CONTACT US

SIGNATURE JOURNEY | Spring 2022 Journey to discover Bhutan’s vibrant Warriors Pageant LEARN MORE Travel to see Bhutan’s first 2020 mask dance festival & welcome the magnificent Himalayan springtime Group | 12 Days | Moderate Touring ​ Dates: March 01 ~ 12, 2020 READ MORE Get an early start on Bhutan’s exciting 2020 travel season with this early March departure to experience the colorful “Pageant of Warriors,” a unique festival that celebrates the handpicked historical guardians of Buddhist treasures in Bhutan. From the western valleys of Paro, Thimphu and Punakha this active adventure takes you cross-country to the beautiful central regions of Bumthang where we explore a network of hidden valleys. We close our journey with a scenic mountain flight back to Paro and a final hike up to spectacular Tiger's Nest! Active country hikes and walks A festival of Buddhist pageantry and dances High-end, traditionally authentic lodges & accommodations Highlights of western & central Bhutan Markets, monuments, museums and more SEE DAILY ITINERARY EXPEDITION OVERVIEW REQUEST THIS ITINERARY FROM OUR PHOTOGALLERY ITINERARY A group of Bhutanese warriors, the Paazaaps , have long been entrusted with the safety of Bhutan’s holy Buddhist relics, housed inside the great fortress of Punakha in western Bhutan. It is a sacred duty they have performed with honor and pride for centuries. This early springtime festival celebrates their important contributions to Bhutanese history, and the colorful role they play in protecting the cultural treasures of the country, providing us with a wonderful excuse to visit the festival and range across the Bhutanese countryside. We start with the western cultural centers before making our way overland across to the surpassingly lovely valleys of central Bhutan, with stops along the way to visit a series of unforgettable monasteries and temples. A short flight past the peaks and valleys of Bhutan, and a final climb up to fabulous “Tiger’s Nest,” closes this remarkable 2020 adventure. — To see photographs and read about a recent warriors pageant festival, please see our picture story: Bhutan’s Procession of Warriors Festival. Day 1: BANGKOK - LUANG PRABANG Flight from Bangkok to Luang Prabang Arrival in Luang Prabang Upon clearing Customs and Immigration, your guide and driver will meet you at the airport and present you with a welcome packet including all necessary documentation and vouchers as well as their contact information and information for local staff, offices and contacts you may need for the duration of your stay. Transfer by air conditioned vehicle (6 kms) Overnight in Luang Prabang DAY 2: LUANG PRABANG (DINNER) Morning at leisure A Wat to Wat Insider Walking tour (4 hours) Discover the main sights of Luang Prabang and get an insider's view of the religion and culture from a renowned photographer and author. Acommpanied your own private guide take a tuk tuk to the centre of the city to start your walking tour. Stroll through the winding streets to Wat Visoun, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Luoangphabhang. Visit That Makmo, also known as the "Watermelon Stupa." Continue to Wat Xieng Thong, the city's best-known and most visited monastery. The three tiered roof of the monastery sweeps low to the ground and the walls have been beautifully decorated in black lacquer and gold leaf with beautiful scenes carved in gold-painted bas-relief drawn from Hindu and Buddhist mythology. The back of Wat Xieng Thong features an intricate glass mosaic of the tree of life set on a dark red background. Later, take a walk along the Nam Khan River to Wat Khili. Here, at the temple, you will be introduced to a Luang Prabang native who has produced photography projects about world religions, and participated in art and education projects in Laos. He currently has a permanent exhibition, 'The Floating Buddha', inside the temple. He will take you on a private tour of the exhibition and share his extensive knowledge and expertise on Laos. Our final stop on this walking tour is the National Museum, which once served as the Royal Palace. After a short orientation tour through the Museum we transfer back to the hotel by tuk tuk. Transfer to/from restaurant Restaurant: Tamnak Lao Restaurant Luang Prabang (Dinner) Overnight in Luang Prabang DAY 3: LUANG PRABANG (BREAKFAST) Excursion by boat to Tham Pak Ou Caves (5-6 hours) Travel up the Mekong River to the steep limestone cliffs overlooking the Mekong and Nam Ou rivers, home to the Tham Pak Ou Caves. These extraordinary caves are filled with Buddha images, of every style and material imaginable. On the way to the Caves, stop at Ban Xang Hai Village (If time permits). The village is open 6.00 am - 15.00 pm and closed every major Buddhist holiday. This traditional Lao village is famous for the production of lao lao, the local alcoholic brew distilled from rice. The village also provides an opportunity to learn how to make traditional Laotian Corn Leaf Paper and Rice Tree Paper. First you learn how the material for corn leaf and rice tree paper are sourced and then prepare the paper from the raw materials provided. Once the paper is dry you will be shown how it can be fashioned into lampshades, a booklet or a postcard. You get to keep what you make as mementos of your visit. Overnight in Luang Prabang DAY 4: LUANG PRABANG (BREAKFAST) Sightseeing in Luang Prabang Luang Prabang, the ancient capital city of the Lan Xang Kingdom, is famous for its historic temples and beautiful setting surrounded by mountains. In 1995 it was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site. Visit Talat local market (Tour will start early morning) (30 minutes) Visit the National Museum (former Royal Palace) and Wat Mai Visit the National Museum (Royal Palace), a modest but graceful building which combines traditional Lao and French beaux-arts motifs. This turn-of-the century royal residence has been preserved as it was when the royal family last lived here and provides unique insights into the history of Laos. Then, visit the Hor Phrabang, a royal temple built on the palace grounds especially to house Laos' most sacred Buddha statue. The Buddha, cast in gold, silver and bronze alloy, stands at 83 cm tall and weighs about 50 kgs (more than 110lbs). Continue to Wat Mai, which was built in 1821 during the reign of King Manthatourath, and was once the residence of Phra Sangkharaj, the Patriarch of Laos' Buddhist clergy. Excursion to Kuang Si Waterfalls (3 hours) From Luang Prabang, travel by vehicle to the Kuang Si falls. The waterfalls are in a perfect natural setting near Luang Prabang. The multi-tiered falls tumble over limestone formations into a series of turquoise pools. Bring your swim suits and sandals if you'd like to dip your toe or part of your body in a relatively gentle pool. Please exercise caution! During certain times of the year, the falls can be dangerous because of strong torrents and the volume of water rushing downstream. Visit the nearby village of Ban Ou or Ban Na Ouane, before returning to Luang Prabang by vehicle. Overnight in Luang Prabang DAY 5: LUANG PRABANG (BREAKFAST - DINNER) Today you have a free morning to enjoy a cozy breakfast for two at an interesting local cafe, relax at the hotel or do some exploring on your own. Later in the afternoon your guide will meet you at the hotel and take you by local tuk tuk to the pier. Board the local boat and then sit back and relax on a short cruise on the mighty Mekong River. Take in the scenes of local life alongside the river and look out to the distant misty mountains. Farther down the river, the boat will bring you to the opposite bank where the temple Wat Had Siew is located. After exploring the temple environs, you will be introduced to your monk teacher who will take you through a short guided meditation (your guide is on hand to help with the translation.) After clearing your mind through meditation amid the spiritual surroundings, travel by boat and tuk tuk to a local yoga school (optional). After a warm welcome by the instructor, you will be taught some basic yoga aimed at improving mental and physical balance. Be sure to wear or bring some comfortable clothes if you plan on doing yoga this afternoon. At the end of the day return to your hotel by vehicle. Restaurant : Dyen Sabai Restaurant and Lounge (Dinner) Overnight in Luang Prabang DAY 6: LUANG PRABANG - VIENTIANE (BREAKFAST) Transfer by air conditioned vehicle (6 kms) Flight from Luang Prabang to Vientiane Transfer by air conditioned vehicle Sightseeing in Vientiane The capital city of Laos and the seat of Laotian government sits on a bend of the Mekong River amid the fertile alluvial plains. Vientiane (pronounced Wieng Chang by the locals) is a laid-back city with lots of history, interesting temples and lively markets. Overnight in Vientiane DAY 7: VIENTIANE (BREAKFAST) Sightseeing in Vientiane (8 hours) The capital city of Laos, Vientiane, still feels like a sleepy city with a relaxed charm, tree-lined boulevards, beautiful temples and colorful markets. Tour the many highlights of the city, including Pha That Luang, a gleaming golden stupa with a vibrantly painted interior (below) that is perhaps the most important national monument in Laos; Ho Pha Keo, the royal temple, now a museum with beautiful examples of Buddhist sculptures; Wat Si Saket, another built in 1818; Patuxai, a monumental arch inspired by Paris' Arc de Triomphe, but executed with Lao motifs. Stop by the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) for a reckoning with the awful legacy of American bombs, and the progressive work of the organization rehabilitating those injured by unexploded ordnances. See Wat Si Muang, a gold monument built in 1563. End your day at the Talaat Sao, or the "morning market" (actually open all day), the best place to buy traditional Lao fabrics. Overnight in Vientiane DAY 8: VIENTIANE (BREAKFAST - DINNER) Today you have a chunk of leisure time to explore on your own, try some interesting local restaurants, visit an art gallery or just spend some time reading and relaxing at the hotel. This evening visit the home of a local chef and learn how to cook delicious Lao dishes. Travel to Ban Nong Bone Village, where the Head Chef, Vanpheng, will welcome you to her home and teach your cooking class. Over the next few hours you will learn how to cook three local dishes using traditional ingredients and techniques. Afterwards, relax and enjoy the feast everyone has created together. Traditional sweets and snacks will also be on offer, although the savoury dishes tend to be most popular to prepare. Tropical drinks are also included with the meal. Say farewell to Vanpheng and spend the rest of the evening at leisure (or see recommendation below): Recommended Tour: This evening we recommend a stroll along the banks of the Mekong River through Chao Anou Park and the Night Market, observing locals and taking in the views. Both are situated along the Mekong and this area comes alive after dark. Adventurous foodies can sample a wide range of local snacks along the way. Cap off the night with a bottle of the Beerlao, a tasty local beer brewed from local rice and high-quality malt. Overnight in Vientiane DAY 9: VIENTIANE (BREAKFAST) Transfer by air conditioned vehicle Flight from Vientiane to Bangkok ™ REQUEST THIS ITINERARY WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft. ​ Accommodations The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised. ​ Expedition Staff Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan. ​ ACCOMMODATIONS Mountain Resort - Bumthang, Bhutan ​ Set against a sacred cloud forest a short distance below Bumthang's Jakar Dzong (fortress), our family-run lodge in Central Bhutan features the best elements of traditional architecture, including flagstones of river rock, the beautiful wood-and-stone masonry construction of Central Bhutan, and spacious rooms with wood paneling and post and beams of fragrant pine. Guests can enjoy a healing soak in traditional "hot stone" baths enhanced, in accordance with indigenous practices, by mugwort and other medicinal herbs. It's our perfect base for exploring the ample beauties and blessings of the central highlands of Bhutan. DATES & PRICES 2020 Dates March 01 - 12, 2020 ​ ​ 2021 Dates ​ March 01 - 12, 2021 2020 Pricing $4,500 Per Person doubles; Single traveler Supplement ($550/-pp) 2021 Pricing $4,500 Per Person doubles; Single traveler Supplement ($550/-pp) ​ Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Internal flights are $980 per person & $175 per person where a short-duration flight is included on the itinerary. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change. WHAT'S INCLUDED ​ All ground transportation, visas for Bhutan and airport transfers All Accommodations All meals, including excursions to try well-known local restaurants The expertise and services of your Bhutanese Trip Leaders, Guides & dedicated trip field staff Courtesy booking services & arrangements for round-trip regional flights from gateway cities (such as Bangkok) to Bhutan & any internal domestic flights (airfare is additional ). Sightseeing, special events & receptions, visits and entry fees All environmental national parks & conservation fees and permits All Trek Arrangements (if you signed up for a trek), including community camping and commissary equipment (comfortable and roomy two-person tents, kitchen and dining tents, and other community equipment), camp, cook and support staff ​ ​ ​ WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED ​ Airfare to and from destination, as well as internal airfare where applicable Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance Alcoholic beverages Gratuities ​ GUEST COMMENT “ The country is beautiful, and its story is compelling but the special sense of a privileged view into the life of the country that you provided is beyond describing. We are very grateful; thank you!” ~ Laurie H. Z, Denver, Co. GETTING THERE Fly from your home city to Bangkok, Singapore, New Delhi Kolkata or Kathmandu (Main Gateway Cities)* Overnight Fly from Gateway City to Paro, Bhutan. ​Important: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions makes round-trip flight arrangements from the Gateway City of your choice to Bhutan as a courtesy to our travelers. Airfare is not included in trip price. ​ For further details please email us using the contact form on our Request Full Details page. ​ *Bangkok is the primary Gateway City & offers the most frequent and most reliable flights to Bhutan. PRIVATE TRIPS CUSTOM JOURNEYS TAILORED JUST FOR YOU ___ Did you know we also arrange custom journeys throughout the year? Just tell us what you need from your trip and we will put it together for you. REQUEST DETAILS HERE TRAVEL EXTENSIONS TO CAMBODIA & LAOS ___ ​ (with optional Bangkok Transit arrangements) ​ If you'd like to spend a little more time exploring the magnificent World Heritage sites of Cambodia and Laos before or after Bhutan with arrangements in and out of Bangkok, we can take care of those details as well. Tie in a visit to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat or explore the quaint streets of Luang Prabang where French Colonial meets a distinctly unique Asian sensibility. START THE CONVERSATION REGIONAL EXTENSIONS | SPOTLIGHT Bhutan Himalaya Jan 14, 2020 10 min The people and the landscape of Bhutan’s Mountain Goddess: a Photo Essay As we open our 2020 fall expedition to the base of Bhutan’s Mount Jomolhari (slated for October), our Travel Programs Coordinator, Karma... 246 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Dec 19, 2019 5 min The King’s Speech On December 17th, the 112th National Day of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the Fifth King of Bhutan, shared his... 1,419 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Aug 12, 2016 5 min Sacred Expression: Bhutan's Buddhist Arts Writer, Artist & Ceramicist Rachel Davey on the Buddhist arts or Bhutan. On a table near the studio door, figures of dream multiply.... 98 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Bhutan Himalaya Jun 3, 2009 5 min Traveling to learn about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness policy Karma Dorji, Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Sharing a slice of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness with two New York Times journalists... 400 views 0 comments 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 | LONG READS

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