Bhutan often revered as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" or 'Druk Yul', is still regarded as one of the last "Shangri-La's" in the Himalayan region because of its remoteness, its spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and its unique ancient Buddhist monasteries. This country of rolling hills and towering crags certainly exudes charm. The mountains are magnificent, the forest are dense, the people are delightful, the air is pure, the architecture inspiring, the religion exciting and the art superb. Like timeless images from the past, the traveller encounters the full glory of this ancient land through its strategic fortresses known as Dzongs, numerous ancient temples, monasteries and stupas which dot the countryside, prayer flags which flutter along the high ridges, wild animals which abound in dense forests, foamy white waterfalls which are the ethereal showers, and the warm smile of its friendly people. The tiny kingdom of Bhutan shares with Nepal the world's greatest concentration of mountains and living heritage of Buddhism. With its beautiful and largely unspoiled Himalayan setting, its rich flora and fauna and its vibrant Buddhist culture, Bhutan has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers. In addition to generating hard-currency revenue, tourism is also providing impetus for the development of services sector and hence balanced and holistic development of entire region.
On a clear day, the flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over foothills from Kolkata, the journey offers you wonderful views of the Himalayas and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. On arrival at Paro airport, after immigration and custom formalities, you will be received by our representative. Enjoy the beautiful sceneries on the way and check into the hotel on arrival at Thimphu. Upon arrival, drive to visit the Buddha Point (KuenselPhodrang). Located a short drive away from Thimphu city centre, visitors can get a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley from here. Attraction: Buddha Dordenma Statue, Simthokha Dzong and View of Thimphu city. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, proceed for the guided tour of city‟s main attractions that includes:
Simply Bhutan Museum: The newly commissioned museum depicts the ancient Bhutanese architecture which is being lost to modernization. The best part is the portrayal of the age-old lifestyles of the Bhutanese people. Motithang Takin Preserve: The crown jewel of Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, is preserved. A half an hour walk here would unveil many exotic birds and animals to you, who wander around the area freely and in the most natural of habitat. Overflowing with serenity, the wildlife here is exquisite and should be seen once. Located in the Motithang district in Thimphu, the Royal Takin Preserve was originally a mini-zoo but later turned into a wildlife preserve. The king found it unfair to bind its national animals within definite boundaries and hence declared the area as a wildlife preserve, where the animals can roam around freely. Lunch followed by city tour that includes: Textile Museum: is worth a visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Exhibitions introduce the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men. Then explore the Craft Bazaar: This enterprise displays a wide range of alluring hand-woven textiles and craft products. The handicraft of Bhutan plays a key role in maintaining the country‟s unique culture and tradition and also adds value to the Bhutan tourism industry. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast drive to Dochula Pass and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens. Excursion to Chimi Lhakhang: The Chimi Lhakhang is situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. Walk through the village near the temple along the way enjoy the breath taking sceneries. Later, visit the Suspension bridge, which is always adorned with colourful prayer flags, is the perfect example of this. Linking Punakha Dzong to Shengana, Samdingkha, and Wangkha villages across the Tsang Chu River (aka Po Chu), this is one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. Yet, for a roughly 520-foot-long suspension bridge, it‟s surprisingly stable. The bridge offers a spectacular view of the river and valley, and the east bank is a good starting point for multi-day treks in the nearby mountains. Then, drive back to the hotel for restful evening
After breakfast, a beautiful hike (total about 2 hours‟ round trip walk) takes you to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, which was built by the Queen Mother of Bhutan to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu river and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond. Also it features one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan. Afternoon visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (nunnery).Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (Temple). The temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig chagtongchentong. The Avalokiteshvara statue, one of the biggest in the country, was the handiwork of entirely local Bhutanese artisans.
On your way back, visit Punakha Dzong or (Palace of Great Happiness), built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. This majestic dzong served as both the religious and the administrative center of Bhutan in the past. It measures some 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside are courtyards and religious statuary that hint at the depth of history and spiritual tradition embodied here. Later drive back to hotel for restful evening.
After breakfast drive back to Paro and Enroute stop for some picturesque moments at Tamchog Lhakhang old bridge. On arrival, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses National Museum. Then, visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Dinner and rest.
After breakfast at hotel proceed for full day excursion: Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (approx. 5hrs.30 Mins. walk): It is one of the most famous monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress and meditated here and hence it is called „Tiger‟s Nest‟ In the evening – Explore the Paro town, which is renowned for its diverse selection of authentic handicrafts. Overnight at the hotel.
After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for a flight to your onward destination. Our representative will explain the exit formalities and then bid you farewell.
