THIMPU & TALAKHA MONASTERY
Begin your journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon by touring the gilded temples and golden spires of the capital Thimpu with a personal guide. Discover its museums, vibrant bazaars, and national monuments while acclimatizing to life at nearly 8,000ft above sea level. Afterward, relaxing in your luxurious stay, enjoy the breathtaking views over Thimpu Valley and the giant Buddha as the house lights begin to sparkle in the city below.
Get up for a fresh breakfast and sunrise over the valley. Wander the pine needle-scattered trail through captivating mountain terrain until you arrive at the lesser-known Talakha Monastery. Meet the monks who study here and assist them in planting flowers and trees as part of their daily chores. After your spiritual encounter, dine on a delicious private-chef prepared meal ensconced in an apple orchard.
PUNAKHA VALLEY & TIGER’S NEST
Travel deeper into the subtropical Punakha valley and its carpet of fragrant orange orchards and sprawling rice paddies. Tour imposing Punakha Dzong—Bhutan’s second oldest fortress—before sitting down to a well-earned cocktail by the river. You’ll find your secluded mountain lodge across a bridge covered in flickering prayer flags. In the morning, participate in a guided meditation and spa session, before enjoying the tranquillity of this peaceful woodland farmhouse.
Next, you’re flying by helicopter, over the Lawa La Pass, and on to Gangtey valley in the Black Mountains. At this reserve for protected black neck cranes, you’ll enjoy a de-stress massage and traditional hot stone bath. Feeling the benefits in the morning, you’ll join a prayer flag hoisting ceremony helping to carry your prayers up into the mountain breeze.
Relax into the pace of life here, walk woodland trails passing yaks and meditation huts before a blissful picnic on a hilltop with panoramic views. Your evening will be spent in the company of the Bhutanese, assisting in household chores and cooking while in a traditional farmhouse. You’ll appreciate the unpretentious way of life found within this peaceful home.
