Discover the happiest Buddhist Kingdom’s natural and historical insights on a designed itinerary through mystical Bhutan. Immerse into beautiful landscapes and sights through the valleys of Thimphu and Paro, while our representatives would offer you insight into each valley’s unique cultural and tradition, astonishing history, and lifestyle. Preferred itinerary can be tailored suiting to your interest as you advise us in advance or on your journey.
Our guide and driver will pick you up at the Paro Airport and you will begin your hour-long drive to Thimphu.
In Thimphu you will visit the Takin Preserve. Found only in a small strip of highland across Bhutan, India, China and Nepal, the Takin is Bhutan’s national animal. They are said to be a combination of a bear, ox and goat. The Preserve was created for an injured Takin who returned to the compound even after its herd was migrating back up to higher climes.
You will then spend time on a leisurely walk around Thimphu town.
Today you drive up to Kuensel Phodrang, more popularly called the Buddha Point, with its 169 feet seated Buddha statue overlooking the entirety of Thimphu valley.
You will then start on your drive to Punakha (approx. 2hrs) and visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman. Drukpa Kuenley was a highly learned monk who grew tired of the politics and decided to live as a wandering preacher. He challenged traditional social norms and advocated that the most important thing is goodness of the heart. He is also said to have sub- dued many demons and evil spirits with his phallus, which is referred to in the local language as the Fire Spitting Wisdom Thunderbolt.
Located on the confluence of two rivers named the male and female rivers, Punakha Dzong is considered the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan. You will then take a short walk past the crematorium to the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan.
After an early breakfast you will make your way to Gangtey. The valley is significant in our country’s effort in the preservation and protection the Black- Necked Cranes. Every year the birds arrive on their wintering grounds between mid-October and early December and remain until March through mid-April.
We will visit the famous 16th century Gangtey Goemba that overlooks the large green expanse of the valley. The monastery is surrounded by a large village nhabited mainly be the families of the Gomchens (lay monk ) who take care of the monastery. After lunch we will walk downjill from the mani stone wall at Gangtey Goenpa to Khewa Lhakhang down in the valley. The trail is a gentle walk decending into the Semchubara village leading our way to a square Chorten and the Lhakhang.
After the trail you will return to your hotel in Wangdue Phodrang.
After breakfast we make our way to Paro along the same sole national highway. A short stop will be made at Dochula Pass. Dochula Pass is the site for a war memorial dedicated to all the lives lost in the only military campaign of Bhutan since the 20th century. On a clear day you can also get a view of the Himala- ya’s majesty in the eleven highest peaks all in a line.
We continue on to Chelela and feel the cool clean breeze at the highest motorable road (3988m asl) in Bhutan.
You shall then drive to your hotel in Paro.
The Tiger’s Nest is the most iconic landmark in Bhutan and is famous the world over. Many tourists visit Bhutan just for the Tiger’s Nest alone. Perched on a sheer rocky cliff face 900m straight up from ground level at the base, this 3km hike will be the experience of a lifetime.
After your return, you will have time on hand if you wish to walk around Paro town or shop for souvenirs.
Day 6 Departure
Our guide and driver will drive you to Paro International Airport and bid you goodbye.