Highlights of Bhutan

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Duration: 6 Days

Trip Grade:

Highlights of Bhutan is a tour of less than one week with visits to Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.  Travel across scenic Dochu la pass to Punakha, Bhutan's former capital.  An excellent opportunity to see more rural areas with lush forests of pine, rhododendron and magnolia. The fertile valleys of Punakha are known for its milder climate, cultural sites and farming villages.

Itinerary

Day 01 : Arrive Paro airport

On a clear day, the flight to the country's only international airport is rated as nothing less than awesome of all mountain flights. It offers a panoramic view of the snow peaks of the Himalayas - an exciting arrival to the Kingdom. 

Transfer to hotel to check in and refresh. If early flight, enjoy a first visit to Kyichu Lhagang, built in the 7th century one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. In a serene setting the temple exudes a peacefull ambience. The place of worship is small and intimate lending dignity to a holy and powerfull site. Later enjoy an oriention of Paro town by an easy walk in the main street.

Day 02 : Paro – Punakha

Drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, enroute stop at Dochula pass 3,050m to enjoy the most enchanting view of the 108 stupas against the majestic Himalayas. On arrival, check into the hotel or continue touring :

Tour Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the confluence of Pho Chu and Mho Chu rivers. Punakha was the former capital until 1955, and the Dzong serves as the winter residence of the central monk body. Bhutan’s first King Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907. This magnificent dzong was venue of the Royal wedding of their Majesties the King and Queen.

Nalanda Buddhist College locals call this Dalayna and monks call it by its orginal name.  Very often prayers and rituals are observed and one can observe these sessions.  The monks here are novices and enjoy speaking with visitors. There are sweeping views of Punakha valley below.

Closeby is Sangchen Dorji Lhundrup Chholing Anim Dratsang Nunnery built on a hill overlooking the valley, it has a temple that houses a 14 foot statue of Avalokiteshvara “Chenrizig Chagtong Chentong”,Guru Padmasambhava, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, Gautama Buddha and the 21 Taras. This beautifull Nunnery has the patronage of the Royal Grand Mother.

Day 03 : Punakha - Thimphu

Morning visit Chhimi Lhakhang the fertility temple dedicated to the famous teacher, Drukpa Kinley also known as the 'Divine Madman'. His deeds are painted on walls of this small and intimate temple. Couples visit in the belief that they would be blessed with children. Babies are also bought here to get named.

Travel to Thimphu, the bustling modern capital city en route visit the Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress which now houses the Institute for Advanced Buddhist studies.

This city has many interesting visits scheduled :

National Memorial Chorten this landmark was originally envisaged by the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk to build a monument for global peace and prosperity. It is now a vibrant centre of spiritual practice and religious events which always bustles with pilgrims.

Tashichhodzong "the fortress of the glorious religion" a majestic fortress in all its grandeur serves as the seat of Bhutan's government. It houses the secretariat, the throne room, the offices of His Majesty the King and ministries of home affairs and finance.  Initially constructed in 1641, it was later rebuilt in the 1960s.

Handicrafts Emporium followed by a visit to the local market.

Day 04 : Thimphu – Paro

Morning tours to :

Takin enclosure to see the country’s national animal; a unique endangered animal. 

Buddha Point the largest statue of the Buddha in Bhutan, it has good views of Thimphu valley. It contains holy Buddhist scriptures, images and a library. If one enjoys walking, take a hike from here towards Debsi along a biking trail for about 30 minutes. Hike back to the road.

Simply Bhutan, an interactive 'living' museum developed for and by the youth of Bhutan through the Bhutan Youth Development Fund.

National Textile Museum which offers an in-depth look into the many weaving techniques and styles of local dress and textiles from different areas.  Weavers are usually at their looms giving visitors opportunity to see traditional methods at work.

Later drive to Paro for the night.

Day 05 : Paro tour

Paro, a beautifull valley with homes set among terraced paddy fields and orchards. It is a unique combination of the rural and urban dwellings.  Tour will include :

Take an early hike to Taktsang “Tiger’s Nest” monastery built by Guru Rimpoche as legends have it who flew on the back of mythical tigress.  This incredible structure seems to float on clouds amidst the craggy sides of a hill.  Option to walk to the top or enjoy views from a mid way point to take in the sublime views.

Ta Dzong National Museum a repository of the country's artefacts and cultural heritage.

Rinpung Dzong which has a long and fascinating history, experience crossing Paro chu river on a traditional wooden cantilever bridge.

Drukgyel Dzong, the ruined fortress from where Bhutanese repelled several invasions by Tibetan armies. Currently, the Dzong is under restoration.

A traditional farmhouse that offers a good insight into the lifestyle of local people.

Day 06 : Paro departure

It is time to reluctantly bid goodbye to this amazing destination, transfer to airport for departure.

Bhutan's Paro International Airport is connected by Druk Air and Bhutan Air flights from Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata and Singapore.

Hotels : Standard Tourist Accommodation are in the 3* and 3* plus categories with upgrades on payment of supplementary cost in locations where available.

Local Trip Leaders : all tours are lead by our experienced and knowledgeable Bhutan Trek Leaders to give you an insight from a local perspective and accompany the group from arrival to departure.

Visa : on confirmation and full tour payment; visas will be processed.  

Pre & Post Tour assistance : those who plan  to make pre or post tours to Nepal, India or Tibet TAR can do so, please enquire to make arrangements. Nepal and India are just a little over 1 hour flight connected daily.   

Exit Options : those who do not wish to fly can exit by land to Darjeeling and Sikkim, India.

Enquire & Book Highlights of Bhutan to experience a memorable trip to this Shangrila!

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