We're travelling on a 9-night adventure through the Royal Kingdom of Bhutan staying at Amankora Lodges in Gangtey, Bumthang, Punakha and Paro.

Distances are very deceiving in Bhutan. The drive from Thimphu, the capital city to Gangtey is approximately 140k and takes 4 hours. Our driver Phunsho is originally from the Eastern region and our guide Tashi is originally from the Central region. The village where Tashi grew up is a 5 hour walk to the nearest road and school was 2 days away...

We travelled through the Punakha Valley to Wandi and visited Wandue Phodrang Dzong built in 1638. Dzong's are ancient fortresses built at strategic locations throughout Bhutan. Today they serve as government buildings and monasteries.

We continued over the Pele La pass (3420m) and descended into the hidden Phobjika Valley arriving at Amankora Gangtey for 2 nights. This location is stunningly beautiful. We trekked up to 3200m through Yak farms and forest and entered the valley where Black Cranes come back to feed every winter, A highlight was visiting the local school and watching the kids at play. All meals at Amankora Gangtey were spectacular, especially the dinner served in the Potato Shed on our final night.

Next posting: Amankora Bumthang, Bhutan