13 Days
Duration
Easy Adventures
Level
May 1 – 13, 2017
Dates

Bhutan is a small kingdom wedged between the two most populated countries of China and India. The limit to visitors is restricted with a government regulated tour and tariff system. This policy ensures protection of its natural habitats and also that every Bhutanese benefit from the income generated by tourism.  Ecologically, Bhutan is a hot spot in the Himalayas. And 65-70% of the land is decreed to be kept under forest cover. Clean air, pristine countryside, exotic flora and fauna, unique architecture, smiling people and preserved social and cultural heritage make this kingdom an exotic and a singular destination.  Geographically, Bhutan is an interesting place with the sub-tropics in the south (150m above sea level); to temperate vegetation (2000-3000m) and then to Alpine vegetation (above 3000m). This variation gives many species of fauna and flora to thrive in many different zones.  Since hunting is prohibited, the fauna is well protected.

Our 13 days program will take you all the way to central Bhutan and through its different zones.  Ideal in the months of late April,  May and June, this trip will offer you a chance to see some of the over fifty species of rhododendron and its blooms, several species of magnolias and many varieties of alpine flowers.   We will include soft walks over some of Bhutan’s high passes of Chelila, Dochhula, Pelila, Yotungla and Trumshing la.  On this trip we will take you from 1000 meters to 4000 meters altitude where you will see the dramatic changes in the vegetation and the what life it supports… The difference of over 3000 meters is quite dramatic… The journey goes through the farming valley of Paro to the high passes of Dochula (3050m), Pelila pass (3300m) and the Chelela Pass that is close to 4000 meters.  You will stop at the Phobjhika Valley surrounded by the Black Mountains that are dreaded by the Bhutanese.  Finally, on this trip you will also have an opportunity to see the annual Tsechu (festival) taking place at the remote Domkhar village temple in the Chumey valley of Bumthang.... On this very special Spring trip you will explore nature, its wealth of flowers and the kingdom’s cultural heritage— surely an unique opportunity of exploring the  richness with a minimum of walking and pretty much from sidewalks away from the roads..