Bhutan is a kingdom in the heart of the great Himalaya, nestled between Tibet and India’s Assam Plains. In its 18,000 sq. mile Bhutan offers a variety of climates, from the hot and humid jungles of the southern foothills to the temperate inner Himalayas to the frigid snow-capped peaks in the north which rises to 7700 mts. Bhutan’s state religion is the Drukpa sect of Kagyupa, a school of Mahayana Buddhism.

BUMTHANG: Nestled in the barley fields and apple groves of the Bumthang valley, ancient art- filled temples dating back to the seventh century mark the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan. A rustic lodge for tourists has been built in the shadow of Jakar Dzong.

PHUNTSHOLING: From its vast views of the BHUTAN plains, this overland gateway town is the start of a breathtaking drive round hairpin turns through lush forests to the towns and valleys of the Inner Himalayas at 4,000- 8,000 feet (1,200 – 2,400 meters).

PARO: The PARO valley is more than beautiful; it is visually stunning and historically fascinating. It is also a delightful place from which to enjoy the country’s most famous festival held at the Paro Dzong just across the Valley ( a Dzong is a uniquely Bhutanese Buddhist fortress/monastery). This beautiful terraced valley is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples-and its first airport. The National Museum is located in an ancient watchtower here and Taktsang Monastery clings to sheer cliffs 3,000 feet (900 meters) above the valley.