A visit to Bhutan can easily be combined with a longer trip to neighboring Himalayan countries, and this is a perfect quick introduction to the country for those who might already be in the region. On this trip, guests will spend four nights at a deluxe hotel in Paro, Bhutan’s most beautiful valley, and from this base will explore Paro and take full day trips to Thimpu and Punakha. Private touring highlights the most important religious monuments and natural wonders of this mountain kingdom, including Takstang, a monastery that famously hangs along the cliff edge, and the Simthoka Dzong, which now houses a school of religious and classical studies. Other highlights include the Drubthob Gompa Nunnery, the School of Arts and Crafts, and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. You will also take a full day trip to the Punakha Valley, passing through the magnificent Dochula Pass to Punakha, the winter capital of Bhutan for over 300 years. Visit the Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s second oldest and arguably the most beautiful dzong, located at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu rivers. Other notable highlights in Paro include Ta Dzong, a circular fortress originally constructed as a watchtower, and Rimpung Dzong, which houses a precious thangka (scroll) that is a national treasure.