Bhutan & Bangladesh

The neighbouring countries of Bhutan and Bangladesh provide a dramatic contrast. Bhutan, a tiny, landlocked nation has eschewed most modern technologies in favour of adherence to traditional Buddhism. The country’s north is towered over by the Himalayas, home to the world’s highest unclimbed mountain Gangkhar Puensum, whilst the south rolls low into lush, subtropical plains. Bangladesh meanwhile is a place of scale. The eighth most populous country in the world, whilst also being one of the most densely packed. Its rush to modernity gives the capital city Dhaka a frenetic buzz.

Our two-country tour begins in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka, a bustling metropolis yearning to be explored and with enough historic and cultural places of significance to pass two days of exploring. After Dhaka, a ferry trip to Barisal will give you a chance to explore the region’s endless canals and river network and take part in a cultural exchange at a local school.

In Bhutan, a completely different pace of life and landscape awaits us. We’ll tour the capital Thimpu and its landmarks, notably the bronze Buddha and the Takin Zoo. We’ll travel through the dramatic Phobjikha Valley, visiting Punakha Dzong and the Divine Madman’s Monastery – Chhimi Lhakhang. Onward to Paro, the tour will take in the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower), the Paro Dzong and then walk further down to Nyamai Zampa, an oldest traditional cantilever bridge in Bhutan. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the crown jewel of Bhutan, caps the trip off with a stunning trail hike up to the precariously perched icon of the Himalayas.