Nepal & Bhutan Extension in 2021

Arriving in Delhi, we acquaint ourselves with the Pullman New Delhi Aerocity Hotel. We enjoy dinner at our hotel, while anticipating the adventures to come.

A brief flight delivers us to Kathmandu. Here, we begin with a once-in-a-lifetime scenic flight, taking in close-up views of Mt Everest. We then explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, which is blessed with many temples. In nearby Patan – also known as Lalitpur – we gaze at the Krishna Temple in Patan Durbar Square and come to understand why this city is also sometimes referred to as the city of beauty. Our travels then bring us to the World Heritage-listed Boudhanath Stupa, which dominates Kathmandu’s skyline.

Arriving in Thimphu, we make for the Kuensel Phodrang, a colossal statue of Buddha that houses within it a hundred thousand smaller statues. From this hilltop, we have breathtaking views of the Thimphu Valley. The distinctive form of the National Memorial Chorten then draws our attention, before we depart for the Motithang Takin Preserve. It is here that we glimpse Bhutan’s national animal, the rare takin, a goat-antelope found only in the eastern Himalayas. Afterwards, browse the colourful fabrics on display at the National Handicraft Emporium.

Prior to departing for Paro, we learn of the 13 traditional arts which are taught at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum. In Paro, we witness some of the finest examples of Bhutanese art at the National Museum of Bhutan. The Rinpung Dzong then invites us to see where Buddhist monks have lived since 1644. Our next port of call is Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Afterwards, at a sporting ground reserved exclusively for us, we are invited to participate in a friendly archery match with some elite local archers.

Today, we set out on a strenuous hike to Tiger’s Nest – the sacred Taktsang monastery – built into cliffs 900 metres above Paro Valley. For those fit enough to make the full ascent, the rewards are unmatched.

We depart Paro this morning, bound for Singapore, from where we connect with our flight home.