Bhutan has a rich culture that has remained intact because of its self-imposed isolation from the rest of the world until five decades ago. Dzongkha, meaning the language of the fort, is the national language of Bhutan. Small though it is, Bhutan has a rich variety of cultures.
The flight into Bhutan is one of a kind giving you a taste of the adventurous Bhutanese people taking you as close as you can ever get to the Himalayan mountain ranges. On arrival, you will be received by a guide and transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
Check into the hotel and do some sightseeing. Sightseeing will be subject to flight arrival time. In the evening, visit Tashichhodzong – the administrative state office & houses the Golden Throne of the King.
Overnight at Thimphu | Altitude: 2400m
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Todays touring features the National Memorial Chorten – a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument to world peace. Lunch will be at the Folk Heritage Museum who also serves traditional Bhutanese cuisine & then move on to visit Textile Museum. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a popular old temple built in the 12th century. After, visit Zilukha Nunnery where you will part take in a small prayer ceremony that clears your path of obstacles and impurity and also light butter lamps for all sentient beings.
Overnight in Thimphu| Altitude: 2400m
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This morning, drive to Kuenselphodrang where the largest statue of Buddha Dordenma in the world sits overlooking the valley. Then we start a 2.5-hour drive to Punakha across Dochu-La pass (3,088m/10,130ft). The highest point on the road is marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and prayer flags fluttering on the hill. Visit Dochula Lhakhang Temple. On a clear day, there is a breathtaking view of the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas from this spot.
Overnight in Punakha | Altitude: 1300m
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After breakfast, a short 30 min hike to visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built by Queen Mother to benefit all sentient beings. The temple sits on a hill atop with a spectacular view of the countryside. Then, visit Punakha Dzong, the winter seat of the Head Abbot, built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17th century. This is the sacred place where the current king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck wed a commoner, now queen, Jetsun Pema Wangchuck.
Overnight in Punakha | Altitude: 1300m
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Today we start our day by visiting Chimi Lhakhang, known as the temple of fertility which is visited more often by childless Bhutanese couples. Then we embark on a 2.5 hour drive to Gangtey (also known as Phobjikha) Valley. The valley is wide and beautiful where graceful Black-necked cranes visit in the winter months to roost from the Tibetan Plateau. On arrival, they circle the Gangtey Monastery and repeat the process before returning to Tibet.
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After a leisurely breakfast, visit Gangtey Monastery, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. We then take a walk along the many nature trails in the valley. In the evening, take a Buddhism meditation class (depending on availability) or self-reflect/relax at the hotel.
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Today we trace our steps back towards the capital city for lunch and then to Paro. After lunch, some free time, and then continue to Paro.
Overnight at Paro | Altitude: 2200m
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This morning, we embark on the highlight of our trip. Early morning, we hike for a 2.5 hours uphill along dirt tracks to Taktsang (Tigers Nest) Monastery. Those who cannot hike all the way can enjoy a spectacular view of the temple from the half point cafe. Lunch will be served at the half-point cafe. Horses are available for transport up until the halfway point. Good hiking shoes/shoes with a good grip are recommended for this. After, return to the hotel.
Overnight at Paro | Altitude: 2200m
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After a leisurely breakfast, visit Ta-Dzong, the national museum that showcases Bhutan’s cultural heritage. Visit Rinpung Dzong, which houses the local government offices and the monastic body of Paro. Kyichu Lhakhang will be our last stop; a temple that is one of the oldest in the country. Stroll around Paro town and back to the hotel.
Overnight at Paro | Altitude: 2200m
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This morning, you will be transferred to the Airport in Paro for your onward destination.
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Price per person in double occupancy
The rate is based on 4-star accommodation
Price excluding international flights
This trip is customizable for your private travel.
Please inquire to request a quote for your custom trip!
