FESTIVALS OF BHUTAN

Protected by the mighty Himalaya, the isolated kingdom of Bhutan is an unforgettable place to visit. The landscape is stunning, with steep forested hills and misty mountains rising from fast flowing rivers. However, it's the fascinating culture that makes this country unique, boasting several colourful annual festivals. At these festivals hundreds gather to see the monks, dressed in brightly coloured robes, perform ritual dances.

For several days there are masked dances and prayer meetings, and a general carnival atmosphere prevails. On the spring departure we will visit the Paro Festival, which culminates with the unfurling of a giant Thangka (silk painting) whilst in the autumn we will have chance to visit the grand Thimpu festival.

We also see all the main sights in and around Paro and Thimpu, the picturesque Gangtey Valley, as well as the superb Dzongs (fortresses) that dot the valleys and hilltops.