Itinerary

 Day 1 Namgay, former National Assembly member, our guide and longtime friend, opens doors normally closed to foreigners  Ride above Paro Dzong, a massive monastic fortress built to commemorate a 1644 victory over the Tibetans, then see what lies within  Peruse handicrafts in Paro's tiny, traditional mercantile shops.

Days 2-3 Bike through Bhutan's culturally and scenically rich valleys - you'll be one of the few!  Dochu La pass dazzles with panoramas of snowcapped Himalayan peaks  Ethereal villages and rice paddies enliven your ride to Punakha Valley  Engage with monks in between their meditations Hike to Chorten Nebu, a remote 14th-century temple accessible only by foot and seldom visited by international travelers.

Days 4-5 Immersion into an ancient landscape where life's daily rituals remain sacred   Raft down Punakha's Mochu river on our way to the exquisite riverside Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's 300-year-old lofty winter capital Feast your eyes on vibrant Bhutanese painting, sculpture and textile arts in Thimphu, the capital city Curious about Buddhism and how it defines life here? Our historian will enlighten you  Tackle the steep but rewarding walk from Dodina village to Cheri Goemba Monastery.

Days 6-8 Hike to secluded Buddhist monasteries and temples, including the famed Tiger's Nest  Climb an ancient path to the Taktshang teahouse, situated at 9,200 feet and offering superb views of the valley and otherworldly Taktshang Monastery.

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