BHUTAN: KINGDOM IN THE CLOUDS T H E N AT I O N A L GEOGR APHIC DIFFERENCE • H ike to Bhutan's most famous pilgrimage site, the Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest Temple), and participate in an intimate butter lamp ceremony with the monks of Gangtey Goemba. • G et a personal perspective on contemporary Bhutan while mingling with community leaders and government dignitaries at a special banquet. • Stay at the spectacular Zhiwa Ling, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World that exemplifies the artistry of Bhutanese architecture. • E xperience a traditional festival, and visit a family farmhouse to learn about rural life.
ITINER ARY
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the Paro Valley. Explore our stunning hotel— a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World Collection—before a welcome dinner tonight.
D AY S
ZHIWA LING HOTEL I MEALS: B, L, D
DAY 3
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PUNAKHA
After a special Buddhist blessing ceremony, journey to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital. This afternoon, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a small but legendary temple in the center of the Punakha Valley. Settle into our hotel and enjoy dinner together. RKPO GREEN RESORT OR ZHINGKHAM RESORT I MEALS: B, L, D
DAY 4 DAY 1
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BANGKOK, THAILAND
Arrive in Bangkok this evening and check in to our hotel. NOVOTEL SUVARNABHUMI HOTEL
DAY 2
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PARO, BHUTAN
Fly to Bhutan’s Paro Valley (7,300 feet) and visit Ta Dzong, a 17th-century fortress overlooking
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PUNAKHA
After an invigorating hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, a spectacularly situated temple, be rewarded for your efforts with incredible views of the valley below. Then visit the Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress guarding the southern end of the valley at the confluence of the Pho (male) and Mo (female) Rivers. RKPO GREEN RESORT OR ZHINGKHAM RESORT I MEALS: B, L, D
Young Buddhist monks peek through an ornate gateway.
DAY 5
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PHOBJIKHA
Travel to the alpine valley of Phobjikha (10,000 feet), considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. It is also the largest wintering site of the endangered black-necked crane, which arrives in November and stays through March. DEWACHEN LODGE I MEALS: B, L, D
Above: The magnificent Taktsang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Temple, sits high above the lush Paro Valley.
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CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/BHUTAN
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