"Roof of the World"

It was April, and the humidity was pressing upon my spirit. I headed for Mount Everest, a logical choice since I had the whole world as an option.

A flight over Mt. Everest and the Himalayas in a fixed wing aircraft to the "Top of the World / pole three" is mandatory, and a few light to moderate treks toward the Mt. Everest base camps are extraordinary at sunrise.

Process your visa for Tibet in Katmandu and travel to the Tibet, where Earth touches heaven and inspiration is in the air.

Travel on to Bhutan, a Kingdom that only opened to tourists 3 decades ago. Even today only 17,000 visitors per year are invited as tourists. Fees are regulated by the government at minimum 200usd per day, inclusive of accommodation, tour, food. Air to Bhutan is also regulated from most Asia destinations.

Bhutan appears to be centuries behind the outside world because of its isolation, recent opening to tourism and the absolute benevolent monarchy. However, when the rulings of the king are scrutinized, one realizes the countries' progressive aspects. Cut a tree, plant two. No plastic bags or smoking allowed anywhere, all education and medical are free. 15 acres of free land are available to every citizen who applies. All Government employees receive free housing, art school students are paid stipends and given free tuition for 6 years, traditional Bhutanese dress is mandatory from 8am-5pm the Western dress allowed thereafter. Beetle nut is about to be banned in public. These decrees are not at all imposing, but rather just a way of life.

Buddhism is the foundation of spiritual life and Bhutan truly is the last Shangri La on Earth!

The mountain ranges are immense rivers of turquoise blue, inspire and exhilarate. We offer general tourism, pilgrimages, trekking of the highest order, fishing, kayaking bicycling, all with an expert guide in the field. Call us for details.

Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan makes a lovely package for this region. (see photo gallery below)

PHOTO GALLERY (photographer Jigme Wangchuk)
BHUTAN