Bhutan: Land Of The Thunder Dragon

Reality Check

This trip covers the best Bhutan has to offer. First we visit the idyllic Paro valley, with its impressive dzong, unique Bhutanese architecture and sleepy town centre. We also visit Thimpu the capital, having time to see the imposing government buildings and the curio shops in the town centre. The trek is a classic Himalayan trekking route. You can generally expect good service on the trek. This trip is for those would like to combine the cultural highlights of Bhutan with beautiful Himalayan walking. In Paro and Thimpu we stay at good hotels all with private facilities. 4 nights are spent on trek camping, where we provide spacious two-person tents, dining and toilet tents, stools, tables, cooking and kitchen gear and a team of support staff. All groups will be accompanied by a local Bhutanese guide, who will be supported by a cook, assistant guides and yakmen. Whilst on trek we will wake you up with a cup of hot tea, and will also provide a small bowl of warm washing water in the mornings. Travelling and Walking Conditions Nowhere on this trail are the trekking conditions difficult as we follow a route which was formerly an important link between Paro and Thimpu and which has been used for generations by pack-animals. The altitude reached on the trip is not extreme and the passes we cross are rarely covered in snow at the time of our departures. This route presents a great variety of landscapes ranging from terraced farmland, through some of the finest mixed forest in the world, to open, alpine pastureland and scenic mountain passes. Grade B; 5 days walking; maximum altitude 4210m, average 3654m. Please note that smoking is technically banned in Bhutan. Tourists are permited to smoke in certain designated areas but must bring their own cigarettes (up to 200 cigarettes). They must, however, pay duty on any tobacco product they import (up to 200% tax). Smoking in a public place can result in a fine as long you have proof of having paid the duty. If no proof of having paid the duty can be produced then there is the risk of a minimum 3 years imprisonment.