BHUTAN
Tiger’s Nest Monastery
BHUTAN
Dramatic landscapes – from snow-capped peaks and deeply forested slopes to raging, boulder strewn rivers – are found in the Kingdom of Bhutan, hidden deep in the Himalayas between India and Tibet. Explore the land of farmers, weavers and chanting monks.
PARO Paro lies amidst the forested valleys along the Paro Chu River. Its fertile plains provide the life source for the local population. Graced with some of Bhutan’s oldest dzongs it is home to the strategically situated Paro Dzong and the remarkable Taktshang Monastery, the famous ‘Tiger’s Nest’ that clings to the craggy cliffs some 900 metres above the valley floor. It has survived numerous Tibetan invasions. Crossing the wooden bridge, the watchtower becomes visible. It houses the National museum and is home to an array of thangkas and pottery.
TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY The Taktsang Monastery was built at the end of the 17th Century. Sacred to Himalayan Buddhists, the monastery’s origins can be traced back to the legendary arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan and its location, perched high above the Paro Valley, makes it an ideal spot to enjoy some gentle trekking.
THIMPHU Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu lies along the slopes of the Wang Chhu River Valley, amongst the spectacular landscapes of the Himalayas. Festooned with prayer flags, the Thimphu Valley is home to the 17th-century Taschicho Dzong and some of the country’s most important museums, temples and handicrafts.
PUNAKHA
Situated in the lowest of Bhutan’s central valleys, Punakha is Bhutan’s winter capital; its warmer climate sees the fertile valley blanketed in cactus plants and orange orchards. Naturally and culturally spectacular, Punakha is set against the backdrop of snow covered mountains and pine-clad hills.
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TRONGSA & PHOBIJKHA VALLEY Trongsa is home to the 17th-century dzong that was once the powerbase of the Wangchuck dynasty and is the ancestral home of the present royal family. The bowl-shaped valley of Phobjikha lies along the slopes of the Black Mountains and is an important wintering halt for the rare black-necked cranes.
BUMTHANG VALLEY Rich in agricultural land, sacred sites and temples, the Bumthang Valley is made up of 4 mountain valleys in northern central Bhutan. This spiritual heartland of Buddhism is blessed with a fascinating collection of traditional villages and markets.
THE AMANKORA JOURNEY The resorts of Amankora present a combination of elegance, luxury and spiritual calm. Each of the 5 lodges located in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthuang, reflect local materials in their design and décor with traditional wood-burning stoves and the use of local produce in the restaurants. Superb spa facilities are also available at all the properties. A visit to all 5 resorts can be combined as part of your tour and add to an incredible Bhutanese experience.
THE EAST – TRASHIGANG & MONGAR Separated from its western neighbours by the Thrumshing La Pass, the east of the country offers access into Northern India at Samdrup Jongkar. Its more basic amenities are more than compensated for by its traditions, landscapes and a chance to experience a truly untouched part of this beautiful Himalayan kingdom.
Speak with a Travel Expert, phone 0844 488 0667
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