For lovers of Buddhist culture wanting to dig deeper, this 10-day trip through Bhutan's magnificent mountain terrain promises stunning photographs and encounters with a people who care more about GNH—Gross National Happiness—than GDP. As you explore tiny towns and remarkable monasteries, you'll receive unparallelled opportunities for cultural interactions and blessings from Buddhist monks. With the direction of an expert local guide and comfortable accommodations at the end of the day, immerse yourself in a land that prides itself on its remote isolation and happiness.

Day 1 Paro
Arrive at any time and transfer to hotel. Later, enjoy a welcome dinner and visit Rimpung Dzong, a school for monks, and take an orientation walk in the town.

Day 2 Paro/Punākha
Drive to Punakha, crossing the Dochula Pass and enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas through flickering prayer flags.

Day 3 Punākha
Enjoy a full day of exploration including a visit to Punakha Dzong, and hikes to Chime Lhakhang and Wangdue Phodrang. In the afternoon, hike through rice terraces and forests to Khamsum Yueley Chorten.

Day 4 Punākha/Gangtey Gonpa
Travel to Gangtey, visiting the village of Khewa en route.

Day 5 Gangtey Gonpa
Walk to the monastery of Gangtey Goempa, known to hold the most sacred relics in Bhutan. Aftwerwards, visit the community school, then walk across Phobjikha Valley to Khewa Valley and visit an old temple to make an offering.

Day 6 Gangtey Gonpa/Thimphu
Drive to the capital to visit the National Library, Memorial Chorten, and the Institute for Zorig Chusum, an arts and craft school where we can watch students working with paints and clay, as well as woodworking and other traditional arts.

Day 7 Thimphu/Haa Dzongkhag
Drive to one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan via the Chelela Pass. Later, hike to Kila Goempa Nunnery, which clings to a rocky cliff. Drive to the valley and visit the Wangchuk Lo Dzong shrine, Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple), and Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple).

Day 8 Haa Dzongkhag/Paro
Return to Paro and visit the ruined fortress of Drukgyal Dzong.

Day 9 Paro
Embark on a vigorous hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest), the most venerated pilgrim site of the Himalayan world. The view is absolutely stunning, and the monastery clings to the rock, towering 900m (2,953 ft) above the valley. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang Temple and the local archery grounds.

Day 10 Paro
Depart at any time. Airport transfer included.