Many leisure trips end up as a whirlwind of schedules and sightseeing checklists. But Bhutan invites you to travel differently. With Druk Asia’s Bhutan Insider Experience, visitors are encouraged to put curiosity ahead of rigid itineraries, embracing unscripted journeys where true encounters unfold. Travel with James Low: Curated Yet Flexible The Bhutan Insider Experience with James Low offers small-group journeys crafted for travelers seeking authenticity. Each trip aligns with Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Volume” tourism philosophy, balancing culture, sustainability, and conservation. James Low, a hospitality veteran who spent nearly a decade in Bhutan, personally accompanies each group alongside a licensed local guide. While all logistics—transport, lodging, and special access—are carefully arranged, the days remain flexible. Meals with locals, chats with artisans, or quiet moments in monasteries all shape the journey organically. A Life Shaped by Bhutan James originally arrived as the General Manager of a five-star hotel, expecting a short posting. Instead, Bhutan’s spiritual traditions, landscapes, and people held him for ten years. During this time, he hosted royalty and global travelers while absorbing values like compassion, impermanence, and interconnectedness. Today, he shares this wisdom by guiding others into the Bhutan that changed his own life. “You’ll leave with a deeper sense of why Bhutan is often called the happiest country on earth,” James says. From Himalayan vistas and heritage farmhouses to prayer rituals and tea houses, each encounter deepens the traveler’s connection with Bhutanese life. Why This Experience Is Unique Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan; all visitors must be accompanied by licensed guides. This ensures safety in rugged terrain and access to sacred spaces often closed to outsiders. Through Druk Asia, travelers gain privileged entry while keeping their experience deeply personal. Joni Herison, Druk Asia’s Managing Director, explains: “This Insider Experience is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection. Depending on the group’s interests, James may introduce favorite restaurants, arrange Thangka painting workshops, or lead visits to monasteries during daily prayers.” Upcoming Insider Journeys Bhutan Insider Experience with James Low 4–10 December 2025 — USD 6,588 per person 23–29 April 2026 — USD 7,680 per person These departures promise a mix of hidden gems, cultural immersion, and conversations that linger long after the trip ends. Royal Highlander Festival in Laya, Gasa 19–29 October 2025 — from USD 4,740 per person Held at 4,000 meters, this extraordinary highland festival requires a trek into a remote valley framed by Bhutan’s highest peaks. Visitors encounter glacial lakes, alpine meadows, yak parades, and vibrant cultural performances. Prices are twin-share and include return Drukair flights from Singapore to Paro. Travelers from Bangkok can request alternative routes via hello@drukasia.com. Druk Asia: Bhutan’s Trusted Travel Specialist With more than 20,000 travelers hosted, Druk Asia is the leading Bhutan travel specialist and the official representative of Drukair for over 15 years. The company also operates MICE Bhutan and AVIS Bhutan, extending expertise from leisure travel to corporate events. For those drawn to authenticity, the Bhutan Insider Experience shows that the real magic of the Kingdom lies not in checklists but in the moments you never planned.

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Winter unveils a magical side of Bhutan, and there is no better place to experience it than at Pemako Punakha, a private sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Punakha Valley. From December to February, Punakha transforms into a serene winter wonderland, offering visitors a mild, inviting climate that is perfect for outdoor exploration.  Framed by awe-inspiring Himalayan vistas, Pemako Punakha provides a therapeutic setting for an unforgettable winter escape, where every moment is infused with tranquility and quiet luxury. Pemako Punakha, Bhutan’s first luxury private tented resort, is a shining gem in the country’s high-end hospitality scene. Owned by The Tashi Group of Companies, Pemako is ushering in a new standard of luxury travel in Bhutan. At Pemako, the experience goes beyond a simple getaway—it offers a journey that immerses guests in Bhutan’s spiritual and natural beauty. The serene landscapes, combined with the country’s rich cultural heritage, create a profound sense of renewal for visitors. Spanning 60 acres, approximately 45 football fields, Pemako Punakha features 21 luxury tented villas, including one 2-Bedroom Tented Villa and one Presidential Tented Villa. Each villa is strategically positioned to offer breathtaking views of Mo Chhu River and the valley landscapes from the private deck or outdoor heated infinity pool. Carefully placed pathways enhance the sense of seclusion, ensuring guests can fully embrace uninterrupted moments of tranquility, immersing themselves in the valley’s peaceful surroundings. Conceptually designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, each tent features exquisite Serge Ferrari fabrics and separate bedroom and living room areas adorned with Bhutanese artisan works and decorative details along with a spacious ensuite bathroom featuring a copper bathtub as a statement piece. Spirited Away in Punakha With its clear skies and peaceful surroundings, the winter climate in Punakha provides the ideal backdrop for nature walks, treks, and visits to the region’s sacred sites. The crisp mountain air, the glow of the setting sun over the rice fields, and the rich scent of pine forests offer a sensory delight that enhances the winter experience.   Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, radiates grandeur during winter, its architecture beautifully set against snow-capped mountains. Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the dzong served as the former seat of Bhutan’s government and has long been a spiritual and political hub of the Kingdom. It holds historical significance as the site of royal coronations, including that of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck in 1974 and King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in 2008.  As the winter residence of Bhutan’s Je Khenpo and the Central Monastic Body, Punakha Dzong imbues the valley with a deep sense of serenity. This spiritual significance makes winter an especially inviting time to experience the country’s rich culture and heritage, as visitors can witness centuries-old rituals, prayer sessions, and the peaceful rhythm of monastic life, offering a rare opportunity to connect with Bhutan’s spiritual heart. In addition to cultural exploration, winter in Punakha brings several exciting seasonal events and highlights that attract travelers and locals alike. The Punakha Drubchen and Punakha Tsechu, two of Bhutan’s most important religious festivals, take place in the winter months. These vibrant events are a celebration of Bhutanese culture, with masked dances, religious rituals, and colorful processions offering visitors a deeper connection to the country’s spiritual and cultural traditions. During these festivals, the atmosphere in the valley comes alive with music, dance, and the spirit of community. In Punakha, sacred sites that can be visited include: Khamsum Yuley Namgyel Chorten: Built to usher in peace on earth, this majestic chorten stands as a beacon of tranquility. Goen Tshephu Ney: Known as the sacred cave of longevity, this site in Goenshari Gewog gained popularity for its spiritual significance, where Guru Rinpoche witnessed the full form of Amitayus, the Buddha of Long Life. Sewla Monastery: Perched on a pass with stunning views of rose bushes, the monastery exudes a peaceful ambiance. Chimi Lhakhang: Also known as the Temple of Fertility, this site offers a unique spiritual experience amidst the picturesque Punakha Valley. Couples from all over the world and many Bhutanese who have trouble conceiving children visit the temple to pray. Cultural Immersion with Pemako  Pemako Punakha offers a blend of luxury and cultural immersion with experiences like guided meditation, prayer flag hoisting, and traditional Bhutanese games such as archery and Khuru (darts). The resort’s in-house Lotus Realm Spa offers Bhutanese herbal massages to rejuvenating facials, designed to soothe and restore. For a holistic yoga experience, guests can practice Sorig yoga, a discipline intertwined with Bhutanese spiritual traditions, with guidance from a doctor trained in traditional medicine. Culinary excellence is at the heart of Pemako Punakha. Farm-to-table dining highlights fresh, seasonal Bhutanese ingredients across its venues. Soma, the all-day dining restaurant, serves a mix of Bhutanese and international dishes, while Alchemy House showcases Bhutanese specialties crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy exclusive dining experiences at Sura, where a private chef’s table is available. Complementing this exceptional dining experience is a private wine cellar, which boasts what is arguably one of Bhutan’s largest collections of rare wines and whiskies. For outdoor dining, Ati provides picturesque settings for picnics or evening barbecues near the resort’s private helipad, blending gourmet experiences with stunning natural surroundings. The resort’s Five Nectars Bar, perched in an elevated pagoda-style structure, offers panoramic views of the river and valley, along with inventive cocktails infused with local botanicals such as Himalayan herbs, wildflowers, and spices. Additionally, guests can participate in ara-making workshops, learning to craft personalized versions of Bhutan’s traditional rice spirit. Yantra Hall, an 88 sq m venue is perfect for both corporate events and bespoke celebrations, including weddings and anniversaries. It comes with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and customizable seating to create the ideal setting for every occasion. Journey to Bhutan for an exceptional holiday with Pemako Whether pursuing mindful relaxation or thrilling adventure, Pemako caters to every aspiration. Getting to Pemako Punakha from Paro Airport is 3 hours 30 min by car, or 25 min by helicopter. The brand boasts two exceptional properties—Pemako Thimphu and Pemako Punakha—each embodying Bhutanese warmth and hospitality amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. With its unparalleled approach to curated stays, a journey with Pemako transcends the ordinary, offering a truly transformative connection to Bhutan’s spiritual essence.  www.pemakohotels.com   Druk Asia is offering customised luxury group holidays with stays at Pemako Punakha and Pemako Thimphu. Travelers flying with Drukair on the Bangkok to Paro route during the off-season (December...

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Amankora reveals the heart of Bhutan with ever rarer and more awe-inspiring cultural experiences for 2023. Well-suited to those embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Amankora continues to tell the story of the Kingdom of Bhutan through unique, culturally enriching experiences across its five intimate lodges. New for 2023, several experiences reveal the very best of the Kingdom’s rugged Himalayan landscapes, discovering the once forgotten ramparts of its central and western valleys. Built in 1638 on a cliff at the confluence of two rivers, the defense fortress of Wangdue Dzong has finally been restored. A key experience until 2012, when an accidental flame sustained significant damage, the magnificent Wangdue Dzong is ready to welcome visitors once again to its grounds after a decade of rebuilding and careful restoration. Another piece of history restored; the Trans Bhutan Trail provides Amankora with further opportunity to discover the pristine nature that surrounds. Dating back to the 16th century, the 402-kilometre-long trading and pilgrimage route was abandoned in the 1960s following the construction of Bhutan’s first major roads. After 60 years, the trail has been reestablished, allowing the Bhutanese to walk in the steps of their ancestors, and those staying with Amankora to follow the ancient path with curated daily hikes and multi-day experiences, paired with stays in all the five lodges. Thimphu – Secrets of ancient incense and the arts Situated in the forested Thimphu Valley, home to Bhutan’s capital city, Amankora Thimphu is a 16-suite lodge tucked into the pine-scented woods of the Motithang area. Ideally placed for exploring Thimphu’s museums, traditional shops and numerous cultural sites, it also serves as a quiet retreat, completely removed from the city’s activities. New this year, learn more about the ancient art of incense from artisans at Nado Poi. Using a wide selection of rare, foraged or homegrown herbs, spices and ingredients from across the Himalayas, Nado Poi’s skilled local craftspeople create blends of sacred smoke, highly sought after by monastic bodies and temples all over the world. Using a 350-year-old recipe passed down through generations, Nado Poi also makes exclusive incense sticks and powder blends for the Royal Family of Bhutan. Available to those visiting Thimphu, the exclusive half-day Secrets of Ancient Incense experience takes place at the brand’s local workshop, and includes a selection of raw materials to create, roll and cut the incense, guided by a Nado Poi artisan. Another renowned artist local to Thimphu, Gyempo Wangchuk, hails from the Zurig Chusum Institute, Bhutan‘s most important art school focusing on 13 traditional arts and crafts. Specialising in painting, Gyempo’s work ranges from temples and sacred scrolls to present-day contemporary art. Exclusively for the new season, private painting sessions with Gyempo Wangchuk can be arranged either at Thimphu lodge or in his studio, where guests can learn traditional Bhutanese painting with a contemporary twist. Paro – Private dining in nature Sheltered within a blue-pine forest of glistening conifers, 24-suite Amankora Paro lies beneath the ruins of the 17th-century Drukyel Dzong (fortress-monastery), a 30-minute drive from Bhutan’s international airport. As with each Amankora lodge, it offers elegant dining and living rooms with panoramic views, an intimate spa, and expansive outdoor areas for relaxing in the sun or beneath the stars. Overlooking snow-capped Jhomolhari, each suite features its own bukhari, a wood-burning stove. Nestled in the foothills, where pilgrims begin their journeys in the shadows of the iconic Tiger’s Nest, Amankora’s new log cabin provides a breathtaking prelude or a cosy finale for hikes up to the legendary monastery. Accessible via a hidden path just moments from the main hiking trail, the quaint cabin is surrounded by a verdant pine forest which opens onto tranquil lawns with sweeping vistas of the cliffside monastery structures. Leave Paro lodge before the break of dawn and experience a sunrise breakfast as the Himalayan Sun slowly illuminates The Tiger’s Nest or opt for a restorative lunch with a refreshing drink and relaxing 30-minute foot massage to soothe tired limbs, followed by a sumptuous lunch in full view of the Tiger’s Nest. For a truly special culinary experience, up to 30 guests can enjoy a Forest & Fortress Lunch or Dinner during their stay at Amankora Paro. Set amidst a pine forest and overlooking the historic Drukgyel Dzong fortress, tables are set in a lush clearing where guests can choose to dine beneath the stars or under a traditional Bhutanese ceremonial tent, lit with stringed lights and flickering lanterns, accompanied by local music. A traditional dance performance or musical troupe can be arranged with Amankora signature cocktails and canapés whilst enjoying dinner prepared by the in-house chef. Adding to its already extensive experience guide, in the year ahead Paro lodge will offer an insight into one the world’s rarest teas. Originating from the Camelia Sinensis trees planted by the former King of Bhutan, Thunder Dragon Tea is gifted to the villagers of Samcholing where the tea trees are grown by the community and gently nurtured by mists from the verdant gorge, Himalayan spring water and the valley’s organic, fertile soil. Guests of both Paro and Thimphu lodge are invited to discover the nuances of this unique green brew with Thunder Dragon High Tea, where its delicately aromatic flavour is paired with sweet and savoury treats created by the culinary team. With every sip, guests are transported to the Kingdom’s mountains, springs and skies. Punakha – Unveiling gastronomic traditions Amankora Punakha lies east of the dramatic Dochu La Pass and just north of the resplendent Punakha Dzong that dominates the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers. Surrounded by rice paddies and fruit plantations, the lodge occupies a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse with twelve guest suites set in an orange orchard near the 30-metre infinity swimming pool. Discovering culture through cuisine is central to the Amankora experience. At Punakha the lodge provides torma making classes, offering an insight into one of the most sacred Buddhist celebration cakes. Made with butter and barley flour, torma cakes are used to adorn altars...

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“Tour Neykor” – A Journey of Spiritual Immersion (13 to 21st Oct 2023) Corporate executives can find their balance and inner peace on a 9-day pilgrimage tour of Bhutan by learning to apply mindfulness in their daily lives Bhutan‘s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and commitment to holistic well-being has captured the hearts of many. A transformative experience awaits in Bhutan where His Eminence Khedrupchen Rinpoche of Sangchen Ogyen Tsuklag Monastery in Trongsa will lead a 9-day “Tour Neykor” spiritual immersion retreat by Druk Asia from 13th to 21st October 2023. Open to everyone including non-Buddhists, “Tour Neykor” is suitable for anyone seeking to apply mindfulness and compassion in their daily lives. Khedrupchen Rinpoche will provide guidance to participants for some of the most pressing questions of today’s society, including how to practice mindfulness at work and in personal settings. The tour will visit four different cities: Thimphu, Bumthang, Trongsa, and Paro. Must-see landmarks include Punakha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang and the awe-inspiring Tiger’s Nest aka Taktsang Monastery. Spiritual Immersive Retreat “Neykor” means pilgrimage in Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan and combines spiritual practice with the act of being in direct contact with nature. Many believe that there are some places on earth that are topographically and geographically positioned with the right alignments and setting. Restorative energies flow from the landscape of such powerful spots, creating a conducive environment for one to find spiritual harmony and regain their peace and happiness. Overcoming Challenges at the Workplace  Can compassion and business goals go hand in hand at work? How can grace be dispensed in times of tension and complications? Business owners or executives struggling to overcome challenges at work will benefit from joining this retreat as they learn practical applications of compassion in business through mini-workshops, Dharma talks and meditation sessions. The ultimate goal of Neykor is to attain an enlightened state of mind through a physical journey to places that have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche and Yeshe Tshogyal, two of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhist history. The retreat which costs USD 4395 per person includes a one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang, a qualified and licensed English-speaking guide, an experienced driver, a tour vehicle, all meals on tour, and accommodations at 3-star hotels (subject to availability). In addition, daily sustainable development fees and entrance fees to all heritage and cultural sites are also covered. Visitors on the trip will have one traditional Bhutanese costume to use throughout their stay. For more information or to book your place for the Neykor Immersion Retreat, please visit www.neykor.com About Druk Asia Private Limited  Travellers from around the globe choose Druk Asia to experience the spiritual magic of Bhutan. As the official representative of Bhutan’s national carrier, Royal Bhutan Airlines (Drukair) is a licensed tour operator in Bhutan, Singapore, Malaysia and offers a seamless travel journey by organising all travel logistics from ticketing, VISA application to itinerary arrangements. With offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, and strong partnership around the world, Druk Asia specialises in curating transformative and wellbeing holidays to Bhutan. www.drukasia.com

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For the first time ever in Bhutan, a mega entertainment event will be held alongside the annual Paro Tshechu this year. The annual Paro Tshechu is held at the beautiful and sacred Rinpung Dzong in Paro. Besides the tshechu festival which will feature various mask dances and traditional Bhutanese folk music, the mega carnival event will happen simultaneously at the Moenlam Chenmo ground in Paro town from 1st to 6th April. Visitors attending the mega music fest will have the opportunity to experience and enjoy various kinds of drinks, food including barbecue, and games. There will also be different kinds of stalls that showcase diverse culture, food and textiles from different regions. The event is aimed towards bringing both local communities and foreign visitors together to experience and promote Bhutanese culture, music and art. It is also an opportunity for the local communities to embrace and celebrate their diversity.

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This year, the 12th edition of Drukyul’s Literature Festival by Bhutan Echoes will be held from 4th to 6th August 2023 in the capital Thimphu. The annual literature festival, organised independently by Bhutan Echoes, a literature and arts initiative, aims to celebrate works of literature and arts by Bhutanese and international authors, thinkers, artists and influencers, and promote Bhutanese literature, culture and arts to the world. The theme of this year’s festival is ‘Reconnecting and Reviving’, an apt concept at a time when we long to find our way in a world that has changed so much, with more than 35 in-person sessions and programs that celebrate the diverse fields of literature, arts and culture. Visitors will get wonderful opportunities to experience evocative sights and sounds, stunning art exhibitions, music performances, interactive workshops, open mic nights, poetry readings, film screenings and more. The Drukyul’s Literature Festival also features a forum to explore the issues that we face in this new reality after the pandemic. This year’s exciting speaker lineup includes Professor Toby Walsh (Laureate fellow, and professor of artificial intelligence at the UNSW), Benjamin Flouw (Author and illustrator of The Golden Glow), Jean-Marc Rochette (Creator/artist and illustrator of The Snowpiercer), among others. The festival will feature esteemed speakers and new voices from India, Nepal, East Asia, Europe, and the US.

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There are always festivals happening in every part of Bhutan throughout the year, many of which are derived from Buddhism and have their origin in the country’s rich and storied heritage. The most well-known festivals are the tsechus, celebrated by all 20 districts on different days. Among all the tshechus, one of the most popular festivals, the annual Paro Tshechu will be held on 1st to 5th April 2023 respectively. Another special festival, Punakha Dromche, happened right before Punakha Tshechu, from 26th to 28th February 2023. The two festivals in Punakha happen every year in the beautiful courtyard of the stunning fortress Punakha Dzong as the jacaranda flowers begin to bloom. Punakha district, located in the western part of Bhutan, about a three-hour drive from Thimphu, used to be the capital of Bhutan, and is the winter residence of the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Punakha Dromche is a special and unique festival as it is the only festival in the country that dramatically reenacts a 17th century battle against the Tibetan army. The festival features local militia men or ‘pazaps’ dressed in traditional battle regalia that is reminiscent of the time when in absence of an armed force, eight great villages or ‘tshochen’ from Thimphu and Punakha came forward and expelled the invading Tibetan forces who had come to take away the sacred relic, Rangjung Kharsapani. The battle reenactment is then followed by a demonstration of ‘norbu chushani’ or immersion of relic in the Mo Chhu river. To hoodwink the Tibetan invaders, the 17th century unifier of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Rinpoche is said to have dropped a decoy of the sacred relic into the Mo Chhu river. This demonstration by the river is watched by hundreds of people gathered in the Dzong. On the final day of Punakha Dromche a massive copper bowl inscribed with scriptures is dragged into the centre of the courtyard. The bowl is filled to the brim with alcohol which is then blessed and distributed to the people attending the festival. Following the dromche is the three-day annual Punakha Tshechu, also held in the courtyard of Punakha Dzong. Tshechus are the most popular festival in Bhutan. They are conducted on the 10th day of a month of the lunar calendar, which means every district celebrates their own tshechu on different dates. Punakha Tshechu, like all other tshechu is held in reverence of Guru Rinpoche, the tantric Buddhist Vajra master, and is one of the most popular tshechus in the country. It is attended by locals and foreign visitors, as well as people from across the country. The tshechu will feature various mask dances or ‘cham’ and traditional Bhutanese folk dances. People dress in their best festival attire and families bring picnic lunches to come and watch the festival. Tshechus are one of the most significant and visible manifestations of the Bhutanese culture, art and traditions. Similarly, the annual Paro Tshechu is held at the beautiful Rinpung Dzong in Paro, the district where the country’s first and only international airport is located. The festival will feature various mask dances and traditional Bhutanese folk dances performed by both monks as well as locals. The main highlight of the festival is the unfurling of the immense embroidery of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Throngdrel) on the final day depicting the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. The giant embroidery covers the entire three-story wall and many people queue up to view and get blessings from the throngdrel every year. For adventure seeking travellers, Bhutan’s annual international marathon, organised by the Bhutan Olympic committee will be held on March 08 this year. The marathon will take participants through mostly rural places on hard pack dirt and pavements. The race will begin at 08:00 am in Gasa district at an elevation of 6,700m asl, descending into shallow lands towards Punakha and following the Mo Chu river with stunning views of monasteries, rice fields, villages and the khamsum Yulley Namgyal chorten. After crossing the 300-foot-long suspension bridge across the Pho Chhu river, the marathon will end at the picturesque Punakha Dzong. Both locals and foreigners participate in the marathon every year, making it one of the most thrilling adventure activities in the country.

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Bhutan’s Department of Tourism has confirmed that the 8th edition of the Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition is scheduled from May 02 – 06, 2023 in the capital Thimphu. The main venues of the exhibition will be the Clock Tower square in the heart of the city, and Norzin Lam, the main avenue of Thimphu. As always, green spaces and gardens will be developed across the city as part of the festival. The Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition aims to promote an appreciation of beautiful urban spaces, support floriculture and gardening related entrepreneurship, and establish a vibrant community event. Now an annual event, the Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition is hosted by different districts in partnership with the local community. Over the years, the event has extended beyond the main venue, to transform entire towns. Permanent gardens, murals and art installations created during the festival have become landmarks in host towns. Besides local gardeners, the event participants include artisans and cottage entrepreneurs showcasing homemade products and traditional crafts. Local artists are engaged in the creation of installations, such as the gorgeous 200-metre wall mural in Haa painted by artists from VAST (Voluntary Artists Studio, Thimphu) Bhutan. The Institute of Traditional Medicine participates annually to showcase the rich array of medicinal plants and herbs of the Himalayas. The festival is hugely popular and widely attended by both tourists and locals, with families traveling between districts in Bhutan for the event. The first edition of the Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition was held on April 1st, 2015 at the historic Ugyen Pelri Palace in Paro as part of a yearlong commemoration of the 60th birthday of the Fourth King of Bhutan. “The Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition is innovative – it gives artistic expression to our rich environmental and cultural heritage, promoting the cause of environmentalism as well as art, community, and culture. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate our beautiful environment, flora and greenery and to explore innovative ways of making and keeping all our natural surroundings as works of floral and greenery art. We hope this annual Royal Flower Festival will in due course of time become a much sought after event by both Bhutanese and foreign guests,” concluded Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism.

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Experience the local, authentic culture of Bhutan on this fascinating 9-day trip of hidden villages, festivals, temples and scenery. Jacada Travel create fully personalized trips from start to finish. From locations to accommodation and guides, everything is selected to suit you. From expert private tours to restaurant reservations, we take care of every detail so you can make the most of your time off. We give back to two regional charities in Indian subcontinent from the profits of each one of our trips. Use our trip ideas to inspire your bespoke experience Discover authentic Bhutan with our expert guides on this exclusive eight night trip. Enjoy colourful festivals, meet locals and visit hushed-up villages far removed from western life. Beginning in the capital, Thimphu, you’ll have plenty of cultural encounters on our privately guided tours. Visit ancient dzongs, temples and museums and take part in a local village festival to experience the alluring way of Bhutanese life. Then, venture further into the country with a stay in Punakha and stunning hikes to find hidden villages, farmhouses and monasteries set in pastoral scenes. The idyllic walks continue into Paro Valley where you’ll spend your last three days. Meet a Bhutanese author and marvel at striking temples, before ending on a high with a hike up to the spectacular Tiger’s Nest. TRIP ITINERARY DAYS 1-4: THIMPHU – Three days enjoying Thimphu Spend your time in Bhutan‘s capital exploring the market, Taschichho Dzong and small, chock-a-block shops. A wander around this relaxed and friendly city gives a look at a more urban side of Bhutan which accompanies a wide display of traditional art, architecture and Buddhist sights steeped in ritual. A visit to the Arts and Crafts School, the Textile Museum and the Traditional Medicine Hospital are recommended. Your Travel Designer can help you to plan your stay here according to your interests. Half Day Tour of National Museum and Rinpung Dzong On your way to Thimphu from Paro, you’ll visit the National Museum. The museum houses over 3000 pieces of Bhutanese art, covering more than 1,500 years of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. It has a formidable collection of antiques from Buddhist temples, and artefacts once used by both the nobility and common folk. Highlights include masks, armour, paintings, prehistoric items and natural history exhibits. A short drive from the museum takes you to the Rinpung Dzong, a large Buddhist monastery and fortress that’s regarded as one of Bhutan‘s most impressive and well-known dzongs – and perhaps the finest example of Bhutanese architecture. From the 17th to the late 19th century, dzongs served as defending fortresses and were built with strong walls, false doors, reservoirs for water and food and hidden armouries. Dzongs were also headquarters for the religious and the political administrations. Once you’ve seen inside the Rinpung Dzong, enjoy the short walk across a wooden cantilever bridge on the dzong grounds. Full Day Tour of Buddha Hill, Textile and Folk Heritage Museum and Cheri Temple You’ll begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Buddha Hill. Your driver will collect you from your hotel and drive you to the Kuenselphodrang Nature Park where you’ll be greeted by the massive statue of the Buddha Dordenma – one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world – sitting atop a hill overlooking the southern entrance to Thimphu Valley. Measuring 51.5 meters, the statue takes the form of Shakyamuni and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. The statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold with 125,000 smaller Buddha statues placed inside it. The statue is a recent construction that was built to commemorate the centennial of the Bhutanese monarchy and to fulfil two Buddhist prophecies, one ancient and one modern. Next, you’ll be brought to the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum for a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese life. This restored three-storey building has been constructed using rammed-earth and timber to replicate a traditional farmhouse and inside it’s furnished as it would have been 100 years ago. Both the house design and its furnishings reflect many aspects of both past and present rural Bhutanese life today. After a guided museum tour you’ll stop for a refreshing lunch. After lunch, you’ll be brought on a guided hike to the Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, also known as the Cheri Temple. The temple is found at the northern end of the Thimphu Valley, roughly an hour’s walk up a steep hill. This Buddhist monastery was established in 1620 A.D. by the founder of the Butanese state Ngawang Namgyal and is now a major teaching and retreat center. Festival at Shelmaka Village Today you will enjoy the merriment of the festival at Shelmaka Village. As we reach Shelmakha, the village headman will welcome you as one of the village’s chief guests. You’ll be entertained with a series of masked dances and folk performances enacted by the village youth. The festival of Shelmakha is an important event for the local people where they can meet one another and introduce newer members of the family. For younger people, it’s an opportunity for romance and to plan marriages. After a picnic lunch, we will visit some farm houses to discover the local life of the hamlet. We then drive back to Thimphu where the rest of the evening will be spent exploring the Capital City. DAYS 4-6: PUNAKHA – Two days exploring Punakha Capital of Bhutan and seat of the government until 1955, the little town of Punakha still enjoys a serene and regal ambience left over from its stately days. Found in a fertile valley at a relatively low 12,000 metres above sea level, visitors come here for warm, sultry days filled with plenty of activities such as mountain biking, trekking and river rafting. Then step into the area’s history with a visit to the town’s show-stopping Punakha Dzong. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and Talo village and Nalanda Monastery. Hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and Talo village and...

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Asia, and in particular Southeast Asia, is a rich architectural landscape with countless historical sites. The splendor of its vast number of magnificent buildings and their incredible architecture is sure to take your breath away. Some of these vestiges of past glory are crumbling due to time, wars and pollution. As a result, many of these structures are under protection, designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. So, when you plan a luxury Asia tour, be sure to include a visit to some of these spectacular Top 10 Architectural Sights of Asia: 1- The Taj Mahal, India:  One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is the epitome of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s love for his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. Built with ivory-white marble, on the banks of the River Yamuna in Agra, the Taj Mahal took about 20 years to build and was finally completed in 1648. The mausoleum complex is about 42 acres, with the colossal Taj sitting in the center. The beauty and magnificence of the pristine white Taj Mahal and its beautiful sprawling Mughal gardens, are even more enhanced on full moon nights. Make it a point to visit the Taj by moonlight when you plan a luxury Asia tour to India. 2- Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Set amidst 402 acres and surrounded by over 100 temples, the Angkor Wat presides over the Angkor Archaeological Park, situated near Siem Reap in Cambodia. It was built as a Hindu temple for Lord Vishnu during the reign of the Khmer King, Suryavarman II, in the early 12th century. Towards the end of the 12th century it was transformed into a Buddhist temple, and remains so till date. The sandstone temple features beautiful bas-reliefs and the architectural elements of the pyramid and concentric galleries. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, which was the mythological home of the Hindu devas. Visit Angkor Wat on your luxury Asia tour to get lost in the mysticism and grandeur of this majestic temple. 3- Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar: Situated in Yangon, the erstwhile capital of Myanmar, this 2,500-year-old gold-plated pagoda is a sight to behold on your luxury Asia tour. There are 4531 diamonds encrusted into the top part of the stupa, with the largest diamond being about 72 carats. Buddha’s hair and some other holy relics are enshrined here, making it the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar. The pagoda complex has hundreds of temples, statues and stupas. 4- Borobudur, Indonesia: Candi Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, was built as a Mahayana Buddhist temple in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty. The temple, which took about 75 years to build, has nine stacked platforms, and 504 Buddha statues. It lay undiscovered for centuries as it was covered by volcanic ash. But, after restorations, it is one of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destinations.  This imposing structure with its grand architecture and artistry, set amidst the panoramic beauty of Indonesia, should be on your bucket list when you plan a luxury Asia tour. 5- Hue Imperial City, Vietnam: The Hue Imperial City was home to the Nguyen Dynasty. Built as a citadel, the massive complex has hundreds of monuments including the Forbidden Purple City, which once the residence of the Nguyen royal family. Within the 2.5 km-long and 6 mt-high city walls are palaces and temples, main buildings of state, and a museum. The imperial city is also called the Complex of Hue Monuments, and this enclosure was badly damaged during the Vietnam War. Yet the 20 remaining buildings of the original 148 will fill you with awe on your luxury Asia tour to this city. 6- Wat Xieng Thong, Laos:  The Wat Xieng Thong temple is the finest and the most beautiful Buddhist temple in Laos, one you should visit on a luxury Asia tour. Wat Xieng Thong, also called as “The Temple of the Golden City”, was built around 1559-1560 by the Lao King Setthathirath I. Situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, this temple was a ceremonial gateway to the city of Luang Prabang, and the venue for royal coronations. Steps from the Mekong river lead to the beautiful temple with typical sweeping roofs and gilded walls, which houses a serene Laotian Buddha. The outer walls of the temple depict legends of Laos, and the back wall is decorated with a glass mosaic of the Tree of Life. 7- Paro Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan: Also called Taktsang Palphug Monastery, the Paro Taktsang sits at a height of 3120 mt above the sea level, on an indent in the steep cliff within the Paro valley of Bhutan. According to legend, Padmasmabhava, Bhutan’s Buddhist Master, was bought here by a tigress. This Buddhist temple complex has four main temples, eight caves and also places for the monks to stay. The main temple has a hall of the Thousand Buddhas, and a large statue of a tigress. A luxury Asia tour to Bhutan is incomplete without visiting this remote monastery, which was rebuilt after a fire in 1998 completely burned it down. 8- Swayambhunath Stupa, Nepal: Situated on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley, the Swayambunath Stupa is said to be self-manifested (sayambhu). According to Buddhist legend, about 2,000 years ago, the Kathmandu Valley used to be filled with water, and the Swayambhu Hill was an island with natural crystal stupa. Lord Buddha declared that this was a wish-fulfilling stupa. Bodhisattva Manjusri, a Buddhist monk from China, emptied the water from the valley and made it accessible to everyone. Today, the crystal stupa is housed inside the dome shaped structure. Get enlightened when you visit this sacred Buddhist temple in Nepal on your luxury Asia tour. 9- Sigiriya, Sri Lanka: Built in the 5th century, Sigiriya is fortress complex built on a monolith and was designed as a huge stone lion. Only the claws of the lion can be seen today. The monolith is about 200 mt higher than its surrounding, and you can see the ruins of...

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The Haa Valley, in the magical Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, is like a glimmering emerald in the clouds. It is the second least populated dzongkhag (district) in the country and is also popularly known as ‘Hidden-Land Rice Valley’. Lush with an unbelievably diverse flora and fauna, it was opened to the public only in 2002 and is still relatively untouched by modern culture. It is a land of ancient rituals, mysticism and beauty and lies like a slice of heaven waiting to be discovered. During the pre-Buddhist era, animist tradition prevailed in the region, with blood sacrifices that were routinely offered to the local deities by the valley’s inhabitants. Then in the 8th century Guru Padmasambhava subdued the more violent practices and made the people guardians of Buddhism. Though traces of animism still prevail in the valley, which is rich in folklore and legends including Shamanistic rituals. The Haa Valley is a two hour ride from the airport in Paro and involves crossing the stunning Chele La Pass through breathtaking scenery.  It is Bhutan’s highest road pass, so perhaps not the best route if you suffer from vertigo, though the pristine landscape, beautiful hills with snowy caps, clusters of prayer flags fluttering along the pass and clear green mountain rivers will be heaven for nature lovers. The picturesque Haa River flows right through the centre of the valley and simply walking beside the river underneath pine trees, passing willows and listening to the babbling river makes for a lovely experience. The traditional architecture with painted carved eaves and wooden window frames with auspicious symbols painted on the walls is distinctly Bhutanese, graceful and somehow fitting with the landscape. For an authentic experience, stay can be organized at traditional farms in the village, so keep this in mind when planning Bhutan travel packages. Home-stays and small boutique-styled lodges also a host of special activities like hiking, walking trails, cookery classes, archery and Ara (the local brew) distilling classes. Some of the famous sites in the Haa Valley are the 7th century Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple) which are next to each other at the sacred site known as Miri Punsum, or “The Three Brother Hills.” Monasteries are scattered through the valley and trekking or biking through the hills to visit the local temples makes for a very enjoyable way to spend the day. Indeed the valley offers plenty of trekking opportunities of different levels of difficulty. There are easy treks like the one to Katsho Goemba which is an old Buddhist monastery. It takes about two hours to get to the top, en route you will pass the tiny happy village of Katsho and be greeted by warm smiles. A tougher but rewarding trek is the one to Jana Dingjia which is about four or five hours to the top. Jana Dingjia is a small goemba or monastery but the views from it of the valley are panoramic. The hike to Kila Nunnery from Chele La pass is spectacular and shouldn’t be missed. For this reason having a good guide is an important part of Bhutan tours simply to ensure you don’t miss the jewels along the way like the Kila Nunnery hike. The walk through the forest to the nunnery is beautiful, verdant and unspoilt. Keep an eye out for the Himalayan Blue Poppy, the national flower of Bhutan. One of its strains is cream colored and is only to be found in the Haa Valley. The Haa Summer Festival in July is a fun one to include into custom Asia tours as it offers an insight into traditional lifestyles and local Bhutanese culture. You will get to watch skilled local craftsman weaving with yak hair, watch yak shearing and see how traditional meals are made using yak dairy products as main ingredients. Savor delicious Haapi Hoentoe or hearty buckwheat dumplings stuffed with fragrant mushroom, turnips and an assortment of dried greens, enjoy lively folk songs and masked dances and participate in local sports such as archery, yak and horse riding, darts and soksum (light javelin throwing). Wash it all down with the heady Ara and immerse yourself in a culture and land that is ancient and still untouched by the homogenous character of modernity. Pining for a personal and tailor-made luxury Asia tour to Bhutan? We are here to help. Get in touch with your Enchanting Travels Consultant today!

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