DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO(L/D)
The flight to Paro on a clear day is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights. One can see Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and other peaks in Bhutan such as Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and TseringGhang. The first gift from Bhutan will be cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the aircraft. Guests will be received by our representative and transfer to Paro Hotel, check into the hotel.
Visit Ta Dzong(CLOSED ON GOVT HOLIDAYS): once a watchtower, built to defend RinpungDzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan's National Museum in 1968. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious Thangkha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. The museum circular shape augments its varied collection displayed over several floors.
Afterwards, walk down a hillside trail to visit RinpungDzong, which has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1646 by ShabdrungNgawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called NemiZam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held once a year in the spring.
Visiting Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries of the Kingdom reflecting introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Evening Back to Paro Hotel for Dinner & overnight stay.
DAY 02: PARO- TAKTSHANG LHAKHANG – THIMPHU (B/L/D)
Morning excursion to Taktshang Lhakhang (approx. 5 HOURS walking excursion): perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro Valley floor, it is undoubtedly one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. Lore has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery thus the name ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by ShabdrungNgawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendor.
On the drive towards Thimphu(55 Kms; 1:30 Hrs). On arrival Check into hotel for Dinner & overnight stay.
DAY 03: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA – PARO (200 KM, 7 HOURS DRIVE)) (B/L/D)
Early breakfast at Hotel; Visit National Memorial Chorten: a monument for world peace and prosperity. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Visit TashichhoDzong (opens until 4 pm): 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.
After early Lunch drive up toPunakha(75 Kms/3 Hrs drive); on arrival visit PunakhaDzong: Built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by the present King.
Later drive back to Paro (125 Kms/4 hrs drive).Enroute visit Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft.) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, Mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m ), Kangphugang (7,170 m ), Zongphugang (7, 060 m ), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana - finally Gangkarpuensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m.
On arrival at Paro; check into hotel for dinner & overnight stay at Hotel in Paro.
DAY 04: PARO + DEPARTURE(B)
After early breakfast at the hotel, Transfer to the Paro airport for flight to your onward destination.
Our representative will help you with exit formalities and then bid you farewell.
4 Star
• THIMPU: Ramada Valley; Hotel Ariya; Hotel Capital; Lemon Tree Resort; Hotel Osel; Pelyang Boutique; Similar
• PARO: Himalayan Keys Forest Resort; Hotel Kaachi Grand; Tashi Namgay; Raven’s Nest; Udumwara Resort; Similar
