Glimpse of Bhutan
4 Nights/ 5 Days in Bhutan
Welcome to Kingdom of Bhutan:
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a tranquil country where you can explore the ancient cultures, beautiful landscapes and magnificent architecture. Located in the high Himalayas, Bhutan is a landlocked, Buddhist kingdom that is well-known for its dramatic, mountainous landscapes, beautiful monasteries, and rich cultural traditions, Bhutan is filled with tangible examples of its extraordinary culture, from the striking architecture of its mountain forts and monasteries to the images of Buddhist religious figures painted or carved onto the craggy cliffs.
Outlined Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrive Paro & Transfer to Thimphu
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in entire Himalayas. Flying along the Himalayan the journey offers fascinating views and an exciting descent in Kingdom. The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalaya, offering dazzling scenic views of some of the world’s highest glacial peaks.
As you exit Paro airport, you will be met by your guide and chauffeured to your hotel in Thimphu (1 hour drive). The capital of the Bhutan, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Situated at 7656 ft. above sea level, with the population of over 100,000 it is perhaps, the only national capital city in the world to not have any traffic lights.
En-route stop to visit the Tamchog Lhakhang; built by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer who introduced the construction of suspension bridges into Bhutan and Tibet. It is believed that more than 58 bridges were built across the country however only 2 have survived. One of these bridges still stands strong at the base of the Tamchog Lhakhang. Marvel at the iron bridge reconstructed using original chain links.
Drive onwards to your hotel for check in and a short rest.
Post lunch, you will visit the National Memorial Chorten. The stupa built in the memory of Bhutan’s third King, His Late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded as Father of modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Followed by drive to visit the Royal Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, is preserved. The Royal Takin Preserve is located just 10 minutes away from Thimphu city. Originally a zoo, the fourth king decided to disband it since keeping animals in cages did not align with Bhutan’s environmental and religious beliefs. The animals were released into the wild, however the takin were too tame to survive, and wandered around the streets of Thimphu. This led to the making of the Royal Takin Preserve. Now the animals are kept in a large enclosure where visitors can observe them.
Day 2: In Thimphu
Post breakfast, you will drive to Buddha Dordenma – a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue is filled with over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, each like the Buddha Dordenma itself, made of bronze and gilded in gold. The statue fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century CE, discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa, the Religious Treasure Discoverer of the time. It is said to bring peace and happiness to the entire world.
From here, you will hike on a trail that will take you through a beautiful forest patch towards Changangkha Lhakhang. The hike provides magnificent views of the Thimphu valley below. This trail is often used by His Majesty the fourth king as his mountain biking trail.
Return to the hotel for lunch.
Post lunch, you will visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusu, commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School. The Institute offers a six year course on the 13 Traditional Arts and Crats of Bhutan. On a visit, can enjoy looking at the unique arts and crafts of Bhutan that have symbolic meaning to the country. You can witness the impressive skill and discipline young students showcase.
Next, visit the Royal Textile Academy. Weaving is an integral part of the culture and tradition of Bhutan. With the aim to conserve, restore, and document this living art, the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan was set up by the queen mother, Her Majesty Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuck as a non-government, non-profit, organization. Inaugurated in 2001, the academy is also a national centre for educating young students in textiles, fabric design and museum studies. It serves as a centre for tourists, introducing the nation’s masterpieces to its visitors, while preserving Bhutan’s weaving traditions.
Spend overnight at Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Paro
Today after breakfast, you will drive to Paro (1 hour drive).
Paro is a historic town, situated at 7382 ft. with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum and the country’s only airport. Mt Jhomolhari (7326 m /24035 ft) reigns in its white glory at the northern end of the valley. The city is known to be situated at the height of about 2280 metres on the banks of Paro Chu river, which is spread across an area of 1259 sq.m. The Paro Chhu river is the lifeline of Paro, adding a glorious touch to it.
On arrival, check-in to your hotel.
Post lunch visit the Ta Dzong; a watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the inter-valley wars of the 17th century. Since 1967, the Ta Dzong has been serving as the National Museum of the country. It holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, natural history, and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. The building’s circular shape comes from its defensive origin.
Followed by a short drive to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as fouer friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mounts. Sumeru and another cosmic Mandala.
Afterwards, visit a Farmhouse. The beauty of Paro valley is embellished by clusters of old-fashion farmhouses. Bhutanese farm houses are very colourful, decorative and traditionally built without the use of a single nail. All houses follow the same architectural pattern. A visit to a traditional farmhouse is educational and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer.
Spend overnight at Hotel in Paro.
Day 4: In Paro
This morning after early breakfast, drive to Ramthankha, and start your hike to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of the most prominent Buddhist sites in Bhutan. The trail climbs through a beautiful pine forest, many of the trees festooned with Spanish moss and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. It is said that Guru Rinpoche, founder of Buddhism in Bhutan flew from eastern Bhutan on a tigress, bringing Buddhist teachings and meditation here on this cliff. This site has been recognized as a most sacred of all Buddhist sights around the world. This hike takes about five hours with a 900 m (2952 ft) approximate gain in altitude.
Afterwards hike down to the car park before returning to the hotel.
On your way back to hotel, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Buddhist King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Spend overnight at Hotel in Paro.
Day 5: Paro/ Departure
This morning drive to Paro airport to board your flight to onward destination.
