The landing in Paro airport was straight out of a James Bond film as the pilot weaved his way between the mountains, taking a few sharp turns to align with the runway deep in the Paro valley.
There were countless highlights to my trip, but my journey from Gangtey to Bumthang over the high passes at Pele La (3390 m) and Yotong La (3425 m) through the snow covered alpine, fir, hemlock and bamboo forests was truly stunning.
I also enjoyed trying out the national sports of Archery and Darts, followed by Bhutanese singing and dancing around the campfire at Amankora Bumthang with all the staff, guides and drivers.
An exceptional experience was my visit to the Punakha Dzong at the confluence of the Mo Chu (Mother) and Po Chu (Father) rivers where I listened to the two hundred monks chanting prayers before the Head Abbott and even saw the King of Bhutan on the way out!
Another highlight was the scenic hike to the Tigers Nest Monastery, which is perched on the side of a cliff.
You could say we had saved the best til last with the magnificent views and scenery surrounding this sacred site. From the yak meat to the hot and spicy dish of chilli and cheese, Bhutan was a culinary feast.
Throughout my journey I discovered massive mountains and breathtaking valleys, peaceful friendly people, an ancient culture and the most remote and unaltered environment that I have ever come across.
The last ‘Shangri-La,’ Bhutan is a heavenly abode in the heart of the Himalayas…go now before its discovered by the hoards!
Email or call our Asia Team for more information on 020 7386 4646.
Read more about holidays to Bhutan.