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Our hiking adventure begins in the "rice bowl of Bhutan", the serene Paro Valley, before moving into the scenic and fragrant mountains surrounding the national capital, Thimphu. We discover the natural beauty of Bhutan along ancient trails laden with moss, passing trees overhung with "old men's beards". Each day's hike rewards us with new insights into the quiet heart of Bhutan as our path almost invariably leads to exquiste temples, dramatic fortresses and and staggering views. Further east, we cover the sacred valley of Bumthang on foot discovering the kingdom's rich history and uncovering stories of mystic saints and visionaries whose teachings laid the foundations for Bhutan's peaceful and balanced way of life. Finally, returning to the western valleys, we complete the peerless hike to the dramatic cliffside Taktshang or "Tiger's Nest" Monastery, not simply the holiest of sites for Bhutanese people but a place to truly alter your perspective on the world.

Days 1 and 2 : Arrive in Paro, and hike the loop from the valley center to the dramatic dzong and the national museum . Days 3 & 4: Transfer to the capital and hike the north end of the valley to Buddhist colleges and monasteries . Days 5 and 6: Hiking in the mountains south of Thimphu valley, with picnics near the area's mountaintop monasteries . Day 7: Relaxed day browsing the capital's markets . Day 8: Visit Thimphu's national museums and monuments . Day 9: Hike through rhododendron forests above the Dochula pass, gateway to the east . Day 10: Overland journey to central Bhutan. Day 11: Hike to the "Burning Lake" and nunnery . Day 12: Walking tour of valley center, with stops at key monsteries and temples . Day 13: Visit Trongsa Dzong, spiritual home of Bhutan's kings . Day 14: Visit Wangdue Dzong, overlooking two rivers . Day 15: Hike alongside rice paddies to the Khamsum Temple . Day 16: Visit Paro Kyichu Temple . Day 17: Walk to a farming estate owned by the family of senior a Skykingdom Adventures guide featuring a hearty tradiional meal and tea service . Day 18: Hike to "Tiger's Nest" Monastery . Day 19: Return flight to Bangkok or another gateway city.

If this trip does not meet your needs please be sure to consult our Featured Trips and Trip Samples. You may also wish to contact us directly to arrange a customized Private Journey for you or your group. You may also like to view our Short Adventures pages.