Festivals and Mountaintop Temples of Bhutan
BHUTAN Festivals and Mountaintop Temples of Bhutan DATES Sep 28–Oct 06, 2017 COST 3,999.00 USD ITINER ARY 9 days, 8 nights BOOK YOUR TRIP Be one of the lucky few to experience this tiny, landlocked nation during its lively festival season. Celebrate the Land of the Thunder Dragon alongside locals through traditional Bhutanese dance, song, and cuisine. Perhaps best-known for its chart-topping measure of Gross National Happiness, this Himalayan nation is home to dramatic landscapes, mystical temples, and fewer than one million people. On this unique trip, you’ll see firsthand how Bhutan is one of the greenest and most sustainable countries on the planet. This adventure is designed for travelers of all ages and most levels of physical ability and is limited to 25 explorers. (See “Note on Hiking and Health” in the Fine Print.) HIGHLIGHTS National Festivals: Experience the sights and sounds of two teschus (festivals)—the first, in Thimphu, is the largest of Bhutan's Buddhist festivals. The second, in Gangtey in the Phobjikha Valley, is less frequented by tourists. At each, you’ll see traditional religious and tantric dance performances and celebrate, pray, and receive blessings for the year ahead. Wildlife and Conservation: The Bhutanese constitution mandates that 60 percent of the country remains forested. During this beautiful time of year, we’ll hike through Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park, explore the Royal Botanical Park, and spot birds, wild goats, and grey langurs. the Royal Botanical Park, and spot birds, wild goats, and grey langurs. Spiritual Practice: Raise peace flags on the Dochula Pass, meet with Buddhist spiritual leaders, and take in the evening chants at historic temples.
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