ISOLATED FROM THE outside world for centuries, the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan measures its progress in Gross National Happiness and is the only carbon negative country in the world. No bigger than Switzerland, Bhutan is one of the last two remaining Buddhist Kingdoms in the world.

This is a beautiful land, of strange legends, ancient monastery fortresses, outstanding art and fascinating people. This specially designed journey takes in the much less visited eastern part of the country; learn more of the country’s unique achievements in architecture, ecology, spirituality, textiles and other crafts, many of which are distinct from other Himalayan regions.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy the Jakar festival (a real social, spiritual and colourful high point for many Bhutanese) in the more remote Bumthang valley
• Visit Tashiccho Dzong (fortress) and Punakha Dzong, two of the largest and most spectacular buildings in Asia
• Visit Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery spectacularly perched on a cliff face, 800 metres above Paro Valley