As we left the Paro/Thimphu area and headed east, we passed many beautiful farms with terraced fields and colorful farmhouses. We stopped in several of the larger towns, including Wangdu Phodrang and Punakha (where we had an opportunity to get a rare glimpse into one of Bhutan's dzongs). We also stayed at the Dechen Cottages in Mendegang.
Continuing eastward, we came to Tongsa and eventually into the Bumtang Region, home of the Kurje Lhakhang Monastery. Throughout the countryside, we saw archery contests, Buddhist temples and other religious icons, and some magnificent rhododendrons and other flowering trees.