BHUTAN IS THE LAND of mountain legends, nestled high in the eastern Himalayas, between India and Tibet. This is one of the last untouched bastions of ancient civilisation, where the vibrant whirl of the masked festival is very much an authentic celebration. The spiritual resonance of Buddhism is tangible throughout the land with intricately carved monasteries colourfully emerging out of the majestic mountains. The landscape is dramatic throughout, boasting deep wooded forests, emerald valleys bursting with wild flora and snow capped peaks soaring beyond the eye. The lure of new luxury retreats make it possible to travel to Bhutan in style. Discover your own Shangri-la in this land of mystique and myths.     DAY 1 ARRIVE KOLKATA (Calcutta) On arrival stay at The Oberoi Grand Hotel. DAY 2 KOLKATA Afternoon sightseeing to explore this vibrant city full of colour, life and remnants of the Raj. DAY 3 KOLKATA – PARO Early morning transfer to Kolkata airport to board Druk Air flight to Paro. On arrival transfer to the luxurious Uma Paro. DAY 4 PARO Day to walk to Zurig Dzong & Ta Dzong, traverse over rivers, through the pine forests and picnic at picturesque monasteries. Easy to moderate walk. DAY 5 PARO Drive to Drukgyul Dzong, close to the Tibetan border. The route is inspiring, and the site of the Dzong is magnificent. Return to a peaceful orchard for a picnic lunch directly opposite Taktsang Monastery (The Tiger’s Nest). After lunch climb to the viewpoint, descend steeply, then climb up to the monastery, passing waterfalls along the way. Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples of the Kingdom, where one can see the beginnings of Buddhism in Bhutan. Duration: 7 - 8 hours moderate to difficult. DAY 6 PARO – PUNAKHA After breakfast, drive to Punakha across Dochula Pass (10,500 feet) to witness the most enchanting views of Bhutan. Tour Punakha and visit the local market. Overnight at Amankora.   DAY 7 PUNAKHA – WANGDUEPHO – DRANG – THIMPHU After breakfast, transfer to the pretty Bhutanese town of Wangduephodrang. After lunch drive to the charming colourful city of Thimphu before returning to Amankora. DAY 8 THIMPHU Morning visit to Tashichhodzong situated on the banks of Wang Chu home of the National Assembly and popular summer retreat. Return to Amankora. DAY 9 THIMPHU – PHUNTSHOLING After breakfast take a scenic drive to Phuntsholing, en route visiting Simtokha Dzong the oldest fortress of the Kingod 1627. Just before arriving at Phuntsholing, visit the temple Kharbandi Gompa. Overnight at Druk Hotel. DAY 10 PHUNTSHOLING – DARJEELING Morning drive to Darjeeling crossing the Coronation Bridge, where the Teesta River at its confluence with the Rangeet River. It was built to commemorate the coronation of Queen Victoria. On arrival in Darjeeling, check into Glenburn Tea Estate. DAY 11 DARJEELING Morning half-day city tour of the sparkling hill resort of Eastern India. Witness the sunrise on the mighty peaks of Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga. DAY 12 DARJEELING Day at leisure. Vehicle and driver at disposal to explore surroundings.   DAY 13 DARJEELING – BAGDOGRA – KOLKATA Late morning transfer to Bagdogra Airport to board a flight to Kolkata. On arrival transfer and check into The Oberoi Hotel rest of day at leisure. DAY 14 DEPART KOLKATA Early morning transfer for onward destination.       This tour travels through various ranges of altitudes. Please ask your travel arranger for more details about traveling in higher altitudes. This is a suggested itinerary for traveling privately. Dates, duration, hotels and routing may be changed to personalize the journey to the travellers preferences and requirements. Please contact Greaves for further ideas on how to enhance this trip.           Traveller's Insurance  |  British Airways  |  Jaisalmer In Jeopardy 1996-2010 © Greaves Travel L.L.C. Greaves Tours L.L.C. Greaves Travel Ltd. Greaves Travel Private Ltd. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks are the property of their respective holders.