Day 1 : Paro
The flight to Bhutan offers scenic views of some world’s highest peaks.
Paro is at an altitude of 2280m above sea level and this valley serves as an ideal area for rice, apple, wheat, potatoes and vegetable growing.
Our representative will meet you at Paro airport, and after completion of arrival formalities we take a short drive to Paro town.
Stroll leisurely in Paro Bazaar(town). |
Day 2 :Paro
Paro Sightseeing
Early morning drive towards Paro. Then visit Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum and visit Paro Rimpung Dzong. On the way down cross the 16th century cantilever bridge.
Drugyel Dzong(victory fortress ), built in 1647 is 18 kilometers away from Paro town. Explore the magnificent ramparts of the erstwhile fortress which defended the country against several incursions. On a clear day one can also view the sacred Mount Jomolhari, (24,000 ft) from the northern battlements. Visit to a farm house and observe the traditional Bhutanese way of life & living. |
Day 3 - Paro
Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (Tigers Nest)
The trail to the monastery climbs through beautiful Pine and rhododendron forests. We stop at the tea house for rest and refreshments ,the tea house offers magnificent up close view of the tigers nest and continue the hike for short while until you see, clearly and seemingly within reach, the imposing Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. History states that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tiger and meditated here for three months. It is regarded to be one of the most venerated cultural heritage sites in Bhutan. People from all over the Himalayan Diaspora frequent this place on the pilgrimage trail to Bhutan. |
Day 4 Paro - Thimphu
Early morning we will take a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, approx 90 mins drive away from Paro.
Sightseeing in Thimphu valley
National Library: It holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion.
Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as Painting School): Here students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
Textile and Folk Heritage Museum: These museums, both of which opened in 2001, provide fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and way of life.
National Memorial Chorten: The building of this landmark was envisaged by the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the Father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument to world peace. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Trashichhodzong: This impressive fortress/monastery houses Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of Chief Abbot and central monk body.
Handicrafts Emporium: This government-run enterprise displays a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles and craft products. It also carries a small collection of books on Bhutan, Buddhism and Himalayan culture.In the evening explore the vibrant Thimphu Bazaar.
Weekend add-ons
Visit Thimphu weekend market where farmers from all over Bhutan come to this market place to sell their products. It’s an interesting place to visit, where village people jostle with well-heeled Thimphu residents for the best bargains on vegetables and foodstuffs.
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Day 5 Thimphu - Punakha
The total driving distance to Punakha is about 3 hours. Leaving Thimphu the road climbs steeply through apple orchards, farms, roadside towns and hamlets through virgin forests of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichens and Spanish mosses high up near Dochula pass (3,050 m).
This pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges on clear weather. One can see many species of alpine flora such as Rhododendrons, Magnolias, edelweiss, Primula’s and assorted species of pine trees which makes the area a favored habitat of some rare species of birds found only in Bhutan.
Enroute disembark at Lobesa where we a hike through rice fields and farm houses to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. The temple situated on a hill top is dedicated to the great Yogi known as Drukpa Kuenley or popularly known as “Divine madman” of the 14th century. It is believed that this temple blesses childless couples who seek fertility.
Drive north to visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 on a promontory between the two rivers Phochu(male river) and Mochu(female river). The castle currently serves as the centre of district administration as well as the winter home for Bhutan’s spiritual leader Je Khenpo and the monks of Thimphu and Punakha.
Visit the YDF(Youth Development Fund) sponsored Souvenir production and training centre .
Option : Hike to Khamsum Yulay Namgyel. A temple built by the queen mother of Bhutan for peace and harmony best exemplifies the representation of Bhutans unique arts,crafts & architecture. |
Day 6 Punakha - Paro
Take the breezy drive to wangdi market and the fortress monastery of Wangdiphodrang and drive back to Paro in the late afternoon.
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Day 7 Paro - Airport
Transfer to Paro Airport and check in two hours prior to flight departure for your onward destination.
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