14 Days with moderate hiking at moderate elevation (maximum 3720 m) 2 nights camping, 11 nights hotel
Nature has blessed Bhutan with a very rich flora and fauna. The habitats found here range from the tropical climatic zone to the high altitude temperate zone. The country has a high percentage of land under forest, with 72% tree cover.
The forest from 1200m to 4800m elevation has an abundance of rhododendron species. During the months of April to July, the forests become enchanted with the brilliant display of blooming rhododendrons.
Many species of rhododendron are found to exist in assemblages that vary according to changes in altitude, aspect and longitudinal east-west axis.
There are more than 1200 species of rhododendrons worldwide, with diverse forms, ranging from creeping shrubs to moderate sized trees. Flowering with shades of pink, red and yellow, rhododendrons occur in the temperate regions of the world with about 700 species in cultivation, most being Sino-Himalayan species. In Bhutan, of the 46 species recorded so far, four species have found to be endemic.
You can explore one of the world's last unspoiled frontiers, on this three-week trip that will enthrall you by its natural beauty, mystical religion, vibrant culture, and charming people.
Day 1 Fly into Paro, Bhutan, on Druk Air, the National Airline of Bhutan from either New Delhi, Calcutta (India), Katmandu (Nepal) or Bangkok (Thailand). Drive to Thimphu, the Capital of Bhutan. Overnight Hotel.
Day 2 Thimphu to Wangdue ( 2hours drive). Stop at Dochula Pass. 3 species of rhododendrons plus magnolias and lots of birding. Overnight Hotel
Day 3 Wangdue to Phobjikha ( 3 hours drive). Overnight Guesthouse
Day 4 Phobjikha. Hike to Tshelelka Pass. About 9 species of rhodies. Overnight Guesthouse
Day 5 Phobjikha to Bumthang (5 hours drive). Overnight Hotel
Day 6 Bumthang to Sengor ( 4 hours drive) . Overnight tented Camp
"Hishey and his team guided my group on a three week birding trip in Bhutan in 2006. We had a wonderful time and thoroughly enjoyed both the birding and the company. Hishey's knowledge of Bhutanese birds and his abilities to find even the most elusive species cannot be praised highly enough. His professionalism in catering for the needs of his clients, his dedication to nature conservation in Bhutan, and his open, friendly nature are but some of the attributes that make Hishey an excellent guide. We saw nearly all the birds special to Bhutan during our stay and were very well looked after. I can certainly recommend Hishey's services as a guide to anyone planning a birding trip to Bhutan and doubt that better value for money can be found elsewhere."-Allan Drewitt, UK. allanATlogrunner.plus.com.
