The worldwide leader in whitewater rafting and culture-based adventure travel, O.A.R.S., announces new scheduled expeditions in the Kingdom of Bhutan Nov. 6-18, 2014, and Feb. 12-24, 2015.

Flowing out of the Himalaya into Bhutan are some of the world's least explored rivers and best-kept secrets. In fact, up until 2006 when the first descent of Mangde Chhu was completed, and later in 2009 with the first descent of the Drangme Chhu, Bhutan's rivers were essentially unknown to the rest of the world.

O.A.R.S.' adventure will explore two remote waterways in this 'Land of the Thunder Dragon': the Lower Drangme Chhu in eastern Bhutan on the southern slope of the Himalayas bordering India and the Pho Chhu ("Male River"). These are two exceptional Class III rivers far off the beaten path.

This new 13-day program marries the excitement of whitewater with the currents of the culture of this little-known country. The rate of $6,165 per person based on double occupancy (single supplement $540) for ages 16 and up includes accommodations (camping and hotels), all meals, airport transfers, equipment, guides, park fees and more. See: http://www.oars.com/bhutan/bhutan-rafting

The adventure spans Bhutan from Paro (the arrival and departure airport) in the west, crosses several high passes and culminates in a put-in on the Lower Drangme Chhu in the east. Enroute, in addition to the on-river thrills, guests hike 3,000 ft. above Paro to Tiger's Nest Monastery, visit Trongsa Dzong, the National Museum and weaving centers of Chumey Valley before arriving in Bumthang that is the spiritual center of Bhutan. Tropical forests, villages, a foray into India to Manas National Park Lodge and an elephant safari in the Mana Wildlife Park are a few of the highlights.

O.A.R.S. (http://www.oars.com/) is also launching a new World Rivers series in 2014 with the goal of combining sightseeing in exotic travel destinations with the opportunity to run some of the most remote and scenic rivers on Earth. The series is the result of a partnership with renowned international river guide John Yost, co-founder of Sobek Expeditions and a longtime partner of the O.A.R.S. family. Yost has used his vast knowledge of international travel destinations to create four diverse itineraries in Peru, Southeast Asia, South Africa and Guatemala. The under-14-day trips, offered throughout the year, accommodate guests in small inns and family-owned lodges. The adventures include, among others, the culture of cities visited, historic sites and monuments and, of course, pristine wilderness and whitewater.