Bhutan: The Dragon Kingdom

The 29 Feb 2020 departure coincides with the Punakha tsechu; the 30 Mar 2020 departure coincides with the Paro tsechu (slightly different itinerary to allow more time in Paro – please ask your travel consultant for details); and the 24 Sep 2020 departure coincides with the Thimphu tsechu. The 3 Nov 2020 departure and extension visits the Black-Necked Crane festival.

Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Kathmandu, via Istanbul, with Turkish Airlines. (N)

Arrive in Kathmandu in the early afternoon and transfer to the Hotel Himalaya (or similar) for 2 nights. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and offers 180-degree panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range. (N)

Take a full morning tour of Kathmandu, a characterful and historic city renowned for its master craftsmen and Newari architecture. Explore the heart of the old town, Durbar Square, a cluster of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards and streets that date back to the 12th and 18th centuries. In the afternoon, discover Kathmandu's cultural diversity with visits to Pashupatinath Stupa, one of the holiest Hindu stupas in Nepal and Boudhnath, one of the largest Buddhist centres for Nepal's considerable Tibetan population. (B)

Enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful Paro Valley as you land in Bhutan on the morning flight from Kathmandu. Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's enigmatic capital city, which maintains a strong medieval feel in its architectural style. This afternoon take a short orientation tour to familiarise yourself with the city. Your tour includes a visit to the imposing Tashichho Dzong. Stay 2 nights at the Hotel Kisa (or similar). (B, L, D)

This morning explore Thimphu in greater depth with visits to the National Memorial Chorten, Simply Bhutan, Buddha Point and the Textile Museum. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure before meeting a local family for an authentic Bhutanese dinner. (B, L, D)

Your scenic drive to Punakha today passes through mountain forests and the stunning Dochula Pass, which offers 360 degree sweeping views of the Himalayas and of the verdant valley's below. This afternoon get a first-hand experience of typical village life in Bhutan with a visit to a traditional farmhouse. In Punakha, stay 2 nights at the Meri Puensum (or similar). (B, L, D)

This morning explore Punakha, a charming town set against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains and pine-clad hills. Perhaps the highlight of the tour will be a visit to the Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress and arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country. This afternoon visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute to meet with the Buddhist monks. (B, L, D)

Return to Paro and stay 2 nights at the Village Lodge (or similar). Afternoon visit to Ta Dzong, now the national museum, for further insight into Bhutanese culture. Later, get to grips with Bhutanese cuisine with an interactive cooking class. Bhutanese cuisine is largely inspired by Chinese, Indian and Tibetan influences and dishes are usually lavishly spiced with chillies. (B, L, D)

Today visit one of the Himalaya's most incredible sites, the Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), a monastery miraculously perched on a rocky ledge. The return walk takes about 5 hours but the effort is well rewarded. This afternoon visit the Rinpung Dzong before trying your hand at Bhutan's national sport - archery. (B, L, D)

Morning flight to Kathmandu. Stay overnight at the Hotel Himalaya (or similar). Farewell dinner at Brick Café. (B, D)

Day at lesiure with late check-out of hotel. This evening fly from Kathmandu to London, via Istanbul, with Turkish Airlines. (B)

Early morning arrival in London. (N)