Overview
The Glimpse of Bhutan tour introduce you to the timeless wonders of the Dragon Kingdom. You will encounter the ancient dzongs and monasteries, relish the idyllic Bhutanese countryside, and visit Thimpu, the quaint capital city. The strategically located Drugyel Dzong defended the Paro valley against the Tibetan invasion in the early 17th century.
Experience Bhutanese hospitality, admire the ever-changing landscapes, and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich Buddhist culture. The watch tower of Ta Dzong now houses the National Museum, highlighting aspects of Bhutanese history and culture. The Rinpung Dzong is the administrative center and a school for monks. You visit the 15th century Changangkha monastery in Thimpu. On your return to Paro, you stop at the Simtokha Dzong, the first building in Bhutan. This is a fascinating introduction to this magical Himalayan kingdom.
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Paro – Thimphu (1.5 Hr)
Early morning flight to Paro, Bhutan. The flight from Delhi/Kathmandu is considered as one of the most scenic flight offering the view of the world’s top ten highest peaks. Upon your arrival in Paro airport our guide will be there to welcome you and transfer to Thimphu. After Lunch visit the Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd King. This place now happens to be a get together point for the elderly people, who spend their whole day chanting prayers and meeting their friends. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley offering a beautiful view of the valley. Enclosure where the national animal, Takins are kept and drive to visit the largest and the newly built statue of Buddha offering magnificent view of entire Thimphu valley. After 5 PM, visit the fortress of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the king. Evening walk around the happening town, the largest and the most crowded town in Bhutan.
Overnight: Thimphu Altitude: 2300m
Day 02: Thimphu – Punakha (3 Hrs)
Morning visit the happening weekend market (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) where the locals from the surrounding villages come to sell their produce. They sell their goods and in return they buy their basic necessities. In olden days, bata system was practiced by everyone. Visit the traditional Hand Made Paper Mill. Visit the School of Arts and Crafts where students learn 13 different arts used predominantly in Bhutan. Visit Folk Heritage Museum which explains how a traditional house used to be like in the olden days. Later visit the National Library which houses the collection of Bhutanese rich religious text and the contemporary Buddhism teachings from master all around the world. Drive further up to visit the Dechenphodrang monastic school and meet the young monks. Later continue to Zilukha nunnery to meet the nuns and interact with them. Lunch in the town and drive to Punakha crossing over Dochula pass (3200 mts). If the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular breath taking view of the highest mountain peaks of Bhutan at a sight that stretches almost 180 degrees. Take a break and walk around the newly built 108 stupas and continue to the sub tropical valley of Punakha offering a different vegetation. En route just before arriving the hotel, taka a nice hike through the paddy field and old village to visit Chimi Lakhang, the temple of fertility associated with religious art of phallus.
Overnight: Punakha Altitude: 1350m
Day 03: Punakha – Paro (4.5 Hrs)
If you are staying in hotel Meri Puensum, hotel Zandopelri or hotel Densa, early morning it will be a treat to walk up to the hilltop to visit the nunnery and interact with the nuns and enjoy the magnificent view of Punkha and Wangdi valley. Later after breakfast drive to visit Punakha Dzong (fortress), which houses the most elaborated temple in the country. This is a must to see fortress in Bhutan and a fine example of Bhutanese rich Art and Architecture. Retrace your drive back to Paro. En route could stop in Thimphu for lunch. After lunch could continue some of the sightseeing that you might have had missed earlier. Later in the afternoon continue your drive to Paro. Upon arrival in Paro, visit Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Continue further to stroll around the old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores. Could get some opportunity to see the traditional game, Archery match going on. Evening back to the hotel.
Overnight Paro Altitude: 2200m
Day 04: Paro Sightseeing
Morning drive to the base for the hike (3 hrs uphill) to Tiger’s Nest, the most revered temple in the country that literally hangs on a granite cliff over looking the Paro valley. Most of the day will go on the hike. On the way back, if you have the energy and time visit the Kichu Lakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan which marks the beginning of Buddhism in the country.
Overnight Paro
Day 05: Departure
Morning transfer (15 mins) to the airport for your departure flight. Your guide will bid you farewell at the airport.
Cost Info
Cost Includes:
- All accommodations in 3 star standard hotels.
- Standard room on twin sharing basis only.
- Meals on fixed buffet (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner).
- All hotel tax and service charge.
- Full time English Speaking Guide.
- Private transportation for airport pick up/ drop and all sightseeing.
- Local sightseeing.
- Road permits.
- Visa processing and arrangements.
- Royalty to the government and all other taxes.
- Entrance fees to events, historic sites, museums and parks as indicated in the itinerary.
Cost Excludes:
- Visa fee for single entry (US $40).
- Travel and medical insurance coverage.
- Refreshment, water and any alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages.
- Laundry, tips and other expenses of personal nature.
- Domestic & International airfare.
- Specialized guides (Foreign Language, Photography, Bird Watching, Buddhism or any specialized guide) available at an additional cost.
- Any personal expenses.
