Neil in Bhutan: 2017

Arrival in Paro International airport on Royal Bhutan Airlines -

With a wonderful group of travellers we flew to Kathmandu, recovered from a bit of jet lag and headed off on Druk Air to Paro, Bhutan. Our guide, Tshering, and his assistant Chimi met us at the airport after we cleared immigration. Warm sunshine greeted us and we loaded the bus and headed off to our hotel and lunch.

Mt. Jomolhari (7326m)

Eastern Himalayas

A Cold Druk beer

Chilies used in cuisine especially the chilly cheese called Ema Datshi

A cultural home stay in the traditional way!

A traditional 'hot stone bath at the homestay

Special Stupa in the center of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan

West of Paro to Taktsang Monastery

The next day we hiked the 900 meters elevation gain over 2 hours to Taktsang monastery - the Tiger's Nest.

Situated on a cliffside, we walked in bright sun through a forest and on up on narrow trails and stone steps. An amazing place and one of the iconic images representing Bhutan.

After lunch we visited the Paro Dzong (fortress - half monastery/half administration) and walked down the hill as the sun was setting to Paro Bridge. This medieval bridge was featured in the movie Little Buddha. We were able to return in the evening for the amazing lighting of the Dzong and bridge!

The country was on show and dressed in gold fabric, coloured flags and 3 days of celebrations declared for the 4th King's 60th Birthday! We arrived in the capital, Thimphu, at mid-day after a few hours on the bus from Paro. Following lunch we toured the city and the tallest Buddha statue in the world at 161 feet high.

Black Necked Cranes arrive in Phobjekha every year around November 11!