Arrive at Paro - Drive to Thimphu (54Km/ 1.5 Hr)
Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - On the way stop at Tachoggang, a beautiful, historic sight across the Paro River. Adorned with numerous prayer flags, the iron bridge is a beautiful walk towards the temple. Apart from the temple, the bridge is of profound importance and steeped in history.
Light a butter lamp here and begin your tour with beautiful aspiration.
Simtokha Dzong - Five miles from Thimphu, on a lofty ridge, stands Simtokha Dzong the oldest fortress in the Kingdom. Simtokha’s strategic position overlooks the entire Thimphu Valley. The central tower has 12 sides, unlike any other Fortress in Bhutan.The carvings on walls in the courtyard is amazing
Buddha Dordenma - Marvel at the grandeur of the tallest sitting Buddha statue, towering at an impressive height of 51.5 meters, located at Kuensel Phodrang.
Wangdi-tse Monastery - Venture through the flavors and scents of thick pine forest along the side of Thimphu valley leading to the glorious Wangditse temple. It is one and half hour - easy hike crossing local apple farms and houses which could be exciting for the kids. The trail further takes into trees of oak, pine, and rhododendron which accompany you throughout the hike while occasionally opening to the view of the Buddha Dordenma statue, Tashichoe Dzong and Thimphu valley.
From Wangditse Temple you have the option to hike back the same way and drive to Dechenphodrang Monastery or hike down to Dechenphodrang Monastery where you can meet young monks undergoing their monastic schooling. You can interact with the monks and witness their day to day life.
Time Taken: 1 hour to 1 and half hour.
Centenary Farmers Market - Thimphu’s Weekend Market, a lively maze near Wang Chhu, bursts with regional vendors every Thursday to Sunday. Delight your senses with aromatic incense, exotic spices, and unique finds like yak legs with hooves attached. From dried fish to local honey, the stalls offer a sensory feast. Don’t miss the cereals section with red rice and kapche. The bustling atmosphere spills into the streets, creating a vibrant market scene. Cross the traditional bridge to discover the weekends-only Handicrafts Market nearby. An unforgettable blend of flavors and culture awaits!
Monastic Stay & Experience at Dodeydrak Buddhist Monastery
Hike Back to Thimphu & Drive to Punakha
Dochula Pass - On the way to Punakha, stop at Dochu La Mountain pass at 3,100 meters marked by 108 Buddhist Shrines. If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the north east will be revealed in all their glory. Hoist prayer flags on one of the highest point and make aspirations to benefit of all being.
Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, at about five minutes walk away from Sopsokha Village. Prepare to be greeted by paintings of an unassuming sight on your way to the site. The temple is also popularly known as the divine mad monk’s temple or the temple of fertility.
Punakha Dzong - Visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. Punakha was Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and Punakha Dzong still serves as the winter residence of the central monk body. Bhutan’s first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907. The fortress has withstood damage from fire, earthquake and flood over the centuries. The latest flood, in October, 1994, caused great damage to the fortress but miraculously spared its most holy statue.
Punakha-Paro (130Km/ 3-4 hrs), Tiger Nest hike
Departure
Paro - End of your travel to Bhutan. Our team will drive you to the Airport and bid farewell.
- USD 100 Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) per person per night
- All meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Comprehensive Bhutan Visa facilitation
- Comfortable accommodation options
- Exclusive private transportation throughout the tour
- Expert local guide services
- All taxes, fees, and charges included
- Those not included in inclusion
- Single Supplement of USD 300
- Alcohol & Any Other Beverages
This excursion encompasses the quintessential essence of Bhutan, combining elements of Tradition, Heritage, and Culture along with Enchanting Nature Trails, Camps, Village exploration, National Park journey, Adventure activities, an Authentic Bhutanese Experience, and vibrant festivals. Over the span of this ten-day tour, experience the pristine ancient world rife with fascinating cultural customs and stunning vistas of the Himalayas.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
