On this journey of a lifetime, Far & High takes you to the land of fresh air, rich in religion and culture, stupendous mountains, pristine nature, and gentle people who believe in gross national happiness rather than gross national product! Bhutan is truly a jewel of the Himalayas. It is a country of the size of Switzerland, tucked between Tibet and India where perhaps Shangrila exists if it does at all.

This trip covers the main highlights of western and central Bhutan and is timed with an annual Tsechu festival. Bhutanese festivals are about celebrating the great accomplishments of the Buddhist Saint Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche.

Trip starts and finishes in Paro, Bhutan. You can fly to Paro from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkatta or Kathmandu. If you need any help with the airfare reservation, Far & High will be happy to do that for you.

Far & High takes a maximum of 16 people. One travel agent is allowed to bring one companion. Only a few spots are available.

Attractions
Hike Takstang Monastery, Tango Monastery, Khamsum Yuelley Temple, and the Chimi Lakhang Temple.
Attend the colorful weekend market.
Take an excursion to the lesser visited villages of Rinchengang and Ura.
Visit a typical farmhouse to learn the lifestyle of the local farmers.
Join a local family in sharing a meal together.
Sip tea with the monks and learn the monastic life, perhaps you can teach them English and lean some Bhutanese phrases in return.
Meet the textile weavers, time-honored thangka painters, and the traditional paper makers.
Enjoy the traditional hot stone bath to heal common ailments.
Attend the colorful Bhutanese festival.

The trip includes Bhutan visa, 9 nights 3-4 standard hotels, 3 meals a day, all transfers and sightseeing by a private coach, English speaking local guide, sightseeing admission fees and service of internal airfare reservation. $1670 for travel agent, $1870 for companion(Double Occupancy basis). $350 Single Room Supplement/$750-800 (Estimated round trip air from Bangkok). International airfare is not included.

Far & High, 866-838-5818; www.farandhigh.com