Welcome to Bhutan! Touch down in this adventure travel paradise and the self-proclaimed happiest country on Earth • Hike to Dzongdrakha, a seldom-visited cliffside temple complex set high above the valley • Admire the views of Paro—Bhutan's second largest city—as you pass nomads wandering into town from the high mountains.

At the top of Dochula Pass, take in a panorama of snowcapped Himalayan peaks • Hike a portion of the historic Trans Bhutan Trail • Sip tea while you learn the story of the 108 memorial chortens (or stupas) built along the pass • Pine forests line our path on a hiking adventure through Punakha Valley • Climb to Chorten Nebu, a 14th-century temple accessible only on foot • Backroads was one of the first foreign groups to be warmly welcomed at this monastery, which offers an authentic look at traditional Bhutanese culture.

Ascend herders' trails to find valley views and colorful prayer flags • Raft down the Punakha's Pochu River on our way to the exquisite riverside Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's winter capital • Enjoy the valley views from the meticulously cared for Wangditse Monastery, built in 1715.

Visit a giant golden Buddha that houses 125,000 smaller figures inside • Stay at a remarkable luxury hotel that celebrates the colorful and ornate architecture of Bhutan • Hike to secluded monasteries and temples, including the otherworldly cliff-clinging Tiger's Nest • Walk trails with thousands of prayer flags flapping in the wind • Sip a hot brew 9,200 feet up at Taktsang teahouse • Practice your aim as you learn archery, Bhutan's national sport.