A TASTE OF BHUTAN

Day 1 Arrive Delhi

Arrive in Delhi and after clearing immigration you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of your afternoon at leisure relaxing and exploring your hotel and surrounding area.

Overnight: The Oberoi

Day 2 Thimpu

Fly to Paro and drive to Thimpu, Bhutan's capital city. The flight to Paro is a rewarding experience in itself, with amazing views of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga and stunning surroundings as you come in to land in the dramatic Paro valley. Once you have proceeded through immigration you will be met and transferred by car to Thimpu. This journey will take approximately one and half hours. On arrival you can explore some of the town - the Dzong is the main Government administration centre and it is well worth you taking a gentle stroll along the main street to explore the various little shops and boutiques.Your home for the next two nights will be the Amankora Thimpu. This luxurious lodge comprises of sixteen large suites which offer views across a landscaped courtyard and onto the nearby stream and pine forest. Furnished with wood panelled walls, king sized beds and spacious en-suite bathrooms this lodge is incredibly comfortable, offers excellent service and is located amidst the breath-taking surrounding countryside.

Overnight: Amankora Thimpu

Day 3 Thimpu

Go on a private guided tour of Thimpu. If you happen to be there at the weekend it is worth visiting the weekend market where people travel from all over to sell their produce. Alternatively highlights might include visiting the National Textile Museum or experiencing a few of the capital's cottage industries such as paper making and hand rolled incense.

Overnight: Amankora Thimpu

Day 4 Punakha

Drive to Punakha. During this dramatic journey you will find yourself winding your way up to Dochu La Pass, situated at 3,050 metres. On a clear day you will bare witness to some break-taking mountain views whereupon you will start your descent into the Punakha valley. Whilst on route - visit the rustic Wangdiphorang Dzong and its neighbouring local temple. Arrive at Amankora Punakha farmhouse where you will spend the next two nights. Accommodation comprises of eight luxurious suites equipped with king-size beds and spacious en-suite bathrooms. Complete with a Spa, Library, cozy living room and yoga and meditation room, Amankora Punakha offers guests a very comfortable stay.

Overnight: Amankora Punakha

Day 5 Punakha

Private guided tour in and around Punakha. Make sure you visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most impressive fortress monasteries.

Overnight: Amankora Punakha

Day 6 Paro

Drive back to Paro. After descending from Dochu La Pass you will drive to Amankora Paro lodge and spa. In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to stroll to the nearby ruins of Drukyel Dzong, visit some of the valley's oldest religious monuments or amble down the main street. The evening may include some cultural pursuits or a film on the Himalayas.

Overnight: Amankora Paro

Day 7 Paro

Private guided tour in and around Paro - highlights include visiting Ta Dzong for a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. Alternatively study the architecture of Paro Dzong and cross a traditional cantilevered bridge to reach the town temple built in 1525. Enjoy a lunchtime picnic and in the afternoon hike through terraced farmland and forest before heading back to the lodge.

Overnight: Amankora Paro

Day 8 Paro

Morning hike to Tigers Nest Monastery located 1000m above the valley floor. Spend the afternoon at leisure enjoying the spa or exploring the rich, surrounding forests.

Overnight: Amankora Paro

Day 9 Delhi

Fly back to Delhi. Spend your afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: The Oberoi

Day 10 Depart

Transfer to Delhi airport for your international flight home.