Himalayan Highlights

The skyscraper exterior may say business, but the contemporary rooms, dramatic cuisine and surrounding gardens scream luxurious living.  Having arrived into Bangkok, you will stay in the centrally-situated Oriental Residence for two nights as you discover the attractions both old and new. Start at the city’s beginning with a visit to the oldest temple, Wat Pho, to see the famous reclining Buddha, progress through time to the Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782, to finish your stay in vibrant Chinatown, a food haven for gourmands seeking an exciting night ahead.

Taking an early morning flight to Paro, you will be transferred to Thimphu, Bhutan’s intriguing capital. Using the luxurious Taj Tashi as your base, stand under the Memorial Chorten temple, which was built in memory of the late 3^rd king, and visit the fortress-like temple, Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley. Catch the beautiful views from this cliff-top temple, buzzing with pilgrim activity, before heading back to the hotel for a well-earned treatment in the spa and a delicious dinner in the hotel’s traditional restaurant.  

Getting to Punakha is half the fun with a scenic drive over the Dochula Pass, with its spectacular views of the mountains, through Dechenphodrang monastic school, where you can meet the young monks, and passed the newly built 108 stupas, to finally end up in Punakha and the sub-tropical valley. Staying in Uma by Como for two nights, the hotel is ideal for those who want to explore the remote Himalayan Kingdom, which will allow you the perfect opportunity to hike through the nearby paddy fields and old villages to the temple of fertility, Chimi Lakhang. Arguably the most beautiful and elaborate temple in Bhutan, you can also visit Punakha Dzong, which served as the capital and seat of the government until the mid-1950s.

As you are transferred back to Paro to stay in the COMO Uma Paro, spend the remainder of your day exploring the charming streets and colourfully painted wooden storefronts on foot. In the afternoon, head for the hill behind the Paro Dzong for the fantastic panoramic views over Paro Valley, and also for the National Museum. Opened in 1968, its collection of fine art, paintings and bronzes are famous, and has rare and unique exhibitions of textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts, as well as galleries of stuffed animals and butterflies- perfect for every kind of interest.

Trekking through the remote mountain paths of Paro’s undisturbed landscape, you will camp wild for a night at the Bumdra Monastery. Walking four hours to the cave of a thousand prayers, take short breaks to appreciate the surrounding beauty as you climb to 3,500 m above sea level. Covered in fluttering prayer flags and ancient temples you will become completely immersed in the Bhutanese countryside with commanding views over Paro and the snow-capped Himalayas. Before you settle down for the night in the tents provided by the Uma guides, you will have the opportunity to climb the peak to the north (at 4,000m) for even better views.

Having ticked off all but one of Bhutan's major destinations during your trip, it’s time to visit the impossibly beautiful Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the country’s breath-taking culture icon. After a hearty breakfast, you will trek back into the Paro Valley, walking through the ancient pine and rhododendron forests and passing peaceful waterfalls, to finally ascend the steps toward the cliff-hanging monastery. Making it back to Paro, you will be transferred to Uma by Como where you can spend the rest of your stay walking through the Chele La Pass and the Paro Dzong fortress or strolling around the old town, peering into the elegant stores and traditional style buildings.