The American Horticultural Society has rescheduled its exotic garden adventure hidden behind the peaks of the Himalayas from its original 2020 and 2021 dates to April 15 – 26, 2023. AHS host Tim Conlon and Tour Leader Susie Orso of Specialtours will lead the trip.

Highlights:

• Buddha Point, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world at 177 feet tall.
• The Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the government since 1952.
• The Royal Botanical Garden, Serbithang, a rescue center for rare and threatened native floral species.
• The high mountain pass of Dochula, at 10,000 foot; on a clear day we will see the Himalayas.
• The Lampelri Royal Botanical Park & Rhododendron Festival, pictured below. The park features 46 species of rhodies, many of which will be in bloom during our visit. During the festival we’ll enjoy traditional songs, dances, and cultural programs.
• Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country.
• Bhutan’s most celebrated examples of monastic architecture: Paro Takstang monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest.

Top-rated Accommodations:

• Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport hotel, for short stays both at the beginning and end of the tour.
• Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa in Thimphu is known for holistic spa treatments and organic cuisine in an exceptionally beautiful natural setting.
• The Dhensa Boutique Resort, set in the Punakha Valley. We’ll be immersed in the peace and beauty of nature at its most brilliant.
• The Gangtey Lodge, a window into Bhutanese rural life. It respectfully blends into its environment and will enable us to connect with the spirituality of Bhutan.
• Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront hotel. Located on the edge of the Paro River, it offers panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.
• For more information and to make reservations, please contact 703-768-5700 ext 127, or email development@ahsgardening.org.