Located in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan heads towards a sustainable development, approach guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happines (GNH). Bhutan continues to retain its ancient culture, which has been shaped by Buddhism. In this tour we will bring you to Thimphu Valley and Paro Valley.Thimphu is the political and economic center of Bhutan, and also boosts a number of cultural sights, in which literature, art, music religion, customs and the national dress code is reflected in the media. Thimphu is also host to the famous festival Tshechu, which is held annually during autumn (September/ October), on dates corresponding with the Bhutanese calendar. (Please check the Festival Schedule for dates). In the other highlights of this tour, we bring you to explore the picturesque Paro valley. The rich cultural heritage, the scenic beauty and its myths and legends makes Paro irresistible for every traveler. This tour is designed for travelers who have limited time, but would like to get an experience of Bhutan.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO – THIMPH
DAY 02: THIMPHU
DAY 03: THIMPHU– PARO
DAY 04: PARO DEPERTURE
WHAT WE INCLUDE
- Bhutan Tourist Tariff Royalty & Visa fees.
- All private excursions and transfers in superior air-conditioned vehicle.
- Local English speaking trekking guide/tour leader.
- Cook and camp hand who will take care of camp chores and provide wholesome meals.
- Services of horsemen who will look after the yaks & ponies that transport luggage and camp gear.
- Experienced driver.
- Accommodation in carefully selected, highest standard goverment approved hotels & guesthouses.
- All meals in Bhutan.
- All entrance fees and permits.
NOT INCLUDED
- All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone and tips.
- Medical / Travel Insurance.
Bhutan at a Glance DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVR PARO – THIMPHU
Flying into Paro is one of the most spectacular flights one can experience. While descending into Paro valley, on a clear day sky you will be greeted by the world’s highest peaks, including Everest. The flight during late autumn is absolutely beautiful, though during the summers it will be cloudy.
As the flight gets closer to the only international airport in Bhutan, you will see the Paro Dzong (fortress) on the hillside overlooking Paro valley, with Ta Dzong, which now is the National Museum.
Upon your arrival our representative will receive you and drive to Thimphu, The capital of Bhutan,
The first stop will allow you to view the magnificent TachoLhakhang, The hereditary place of worship for Bhutan’s Iron Bridge Builder. After the visit we drive further to reach Chuzom, the confluence of Paro Chu (River) and Wang Chu (Thimphu Chu) after crossing Chuzom we enter Thimphu valley.
In Thimphu we will stroll the market and mingle with local people. The Authentic Craft Market is place to visit, where you can find various Bhutanese handicrafts.
Overnight: Hotel/Resort in Thimphu
DAY 2: THIMPHU
Today we begin our day by an early morning visit to the National memorial chorten. This is a Tibetan-style chorten built in 1974 in memory of the late King JigmeDorjiWangchuk who passed away in 1972. It is one of the most visible religious structures in town and for many people it is the focus of daily worship. Remember to walk around the Chorten at least once to gain merit and good luck.
We will take in more of kingdom’s rich culture at the Folk Heritage Museum.The museum is a restored three story traditional rammed mud and timber house inaugurated as a museum by Her Majesty the Queen AshiDorjiWangmoWangchuk in 2001. It showcases the traditional artifacts used now and in the past, which helps connect people to the Bhutanese rural life.
Next we will browse the striking collection of intricate textile at the National Textile museum.The Museum introduces you to the living national art of weaving. The exhibition displays the major weaving techniques and styles of local dress and textile made by the Bhutanese women and men.
We will have time to quickly visit the Bhutanese Paper factory.The art of handmade paper in Bhutan dates back to the 8thcentury, although usage was limited mainly to religious purposes. Today it is considered an important element in the preservation of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. The factory allows guests to view the paper making process and purchase gifts from their show room.
Drive to Kuensel Phodrang
Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue under construction in the mountains of Bhutan. The statue will house over one lakh (one hundred thousand) smaller Buddha statues, each of which, like the Buddha Dordenma itself, will be made of bronze and gilded in gold. The Buddha Dordenma is sited amidst the ruins of Kuensel Phodrang, the palace of Sherab Wangchuck, the thirteenth Desi Druk, overlooking the southern approach to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Upon completion, it will be one of the largest Buddha rupas in the world, at a height of 169 feet (51.5 meters). Although its completion was planned for October 2010, construction is still ongoing
Towards evening we will visit Tashichhoe Dzong and have glimpse king Jigme’s Palace.The Dzong is popularly known as ThimphuDzong or “the fortress of the glorious religion” it houses Bhutan’s administration, and the throne of His Majesty and other Government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. Just below the dzong we can have a glimpse of King’s palace.
Overnight: Hotel/Resort in Thimphu
DAY 3: THIMPHU– PARO TIGER’S NEST HIKE
Today’s exploration of Paro valley begins with a hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s nest monastery) 4-5 hrs hike Tiger’s Nest or Taktshang Goempa is one of Bhutan’s most revered monuments. It literally hangs off the face of a cliff 900 meters (2952 feet) above the valley floor. The legend states that Guru Rinpoche flew into Bhutan on a mythical tigress and meditated in a cave before bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Taktshang Goempa is built around the cave, which is opened to the public once a year at the end of August. The four-hour round trip hike offers spectacular views of the Goempa and the valley below. Horses or mules can be arranged on request to help lighten the journey.After lunch we will visit National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong (Watch Tower) of the Rinpung Dzong. In the Museum the intriguing collection of artifacts serves as a great introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. The National Museum boasts a rich variety of exhibits collected from all over the country and belonging to different eras, some as early as 2000 B.C. a visit through the galleries shows the country’s transition from the later Stone Age to a modern Mahayana Buddhist kingdom. We will then stroll down to the ParoDzong and take in the amazing architecture of this 17th century monument, a premier example of Bhutan’s unique architecture. ParoDzong, built in 17th century to defend Paro from the Tibetan invasion, is also known as RinpungDzong which means the ‘fortress on a heap of jewels’. This fine example of Bhutanese architecture now serves as a central monastic and administrative seat of the Paro district. We will stroll down to cross the traditional cantilever bridge, and then take a leisurely wank in Pari town. It is a great finish of this amazing cultural immersion and your journey to this ancient Kingdom of Bhutan.
Overnight: Hotel/Resort in Paro
DAY 4: DEPERTURE (Paro International Airport)
Our representative will see you off and bid you farewell.