February’s crisp air made the Himalayas glow! We timed our trip for the Punakha – masked dancers swirled under embroidered tents while locals shared ara (rice wine). Our guide, Kencho, secured front-row views and explained each ritual’s symbolism. Mornings were chilly (-5°C), but our lodge (*Como Uma Punakha*) offered hot-stone baths after hiking to Chimi Lhakhang. Tiger’s Nest was crowd-free, with snow dusting the trail – magical!