Bhutan

Discover the ancient kingdom of Bhutan by many modes. Mix a bit of scenic alpine cycling ... a dash of cultural hiking ... a splash of thrilling whitewater rafting and you have our Multisport Adventure - Discover Bhutan. This unique country, thought to be the inspiration for Shangri-la, has managed to combine tourism with growth without sacrificing it's soul. The ancient ways of life still prevail, men go to work dressed in traditional robes called gho and women in their wrap around kiras. Ancient architectural styles influence newer hotels and fresh mountain vegetables and chilis are combined with cheese for flavorful dishes that have been enjoyed through the centuries. Come explore the fabled Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan by bicycle, raft and foot; tour it's many wonders and discover it's delightful culture and traditions.

Your journey begins with several days of bicycle touring, first exploring the seldom visited valleys north of Bhutan's capital city of Thimphu, where you visit the Gompas of Pangri, Tango and Cheri. Then bike up and over (shuttle available too :-) Dochula Pass and down into the Punakha Valley. Explore the valley by bike, cycling to the spiritual capital at Punakha Dzong. Other then the optional climb, most of your bicycling is in valleys, with rolling hills and scenic landscapes.

Switching modes of travel, we explore areas away from the roads, during a half day of hiking in Punakha ascending to a beautiful temples perched high above the valley floor. Then cool off in the afternoon with some whitewater rafting on the Pho Chu River ... class 2 and 3 rapids, big enough to be fun, small enough for all to enjoy. We finish our adventure back in Paro with a hike to fabled Taktshang Goemba, better known to foreigners as Tigers Nest, a temple perched on a sheer cliff face, hundreds of feet above the valley floor. And unlike many other tours, we have special permits to hike to the actual monastery for a visit, not just view it from far away.