This 5 days tour will give you an opportunity to see Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.The tour will also explore the beautiful valley of Paro, which is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries.
Day 01: ARRIVAl PARO (2280m) TO THIMPHU: 54KM/APPROX 1HR
In clear weather, Druk Air’s flight to Bhutan provides a wonderful view of Himalayan scenery. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkatta, it is a fascinating journey, culminating in an exciting descent past forested hills into the kingdom. On arrival at Paro airport, you will be met by our representative. On completion of airport formalities, there will be an interesting drive of about 1 hour duration to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan.
Day 02: Thimphu
Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s Royal family, the civil servants, and foreign missions offices in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.
Morning visit to Trashichhoedzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery which houses most of the Government’s office and King’s Throne room. It is also the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. Then, visit the National Memorial Chorten. The building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace. Also visit the Folk & Textile Heritage Museums, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan’s living traditions.
Afternoon visits to Buddha Dordhenma, one of largest Budhha statues in the world, visit to Takin reserve, national animal of Bhutan.
Day 03: THIMPHU
Thimphu city is small but interesting outlook with traditional architecture, interesting mixed of business establishment and a stroll through city is fun and you will be greeted by lots of smiles in the streets. Visits to craft market where you can find choices of souvenir for your loved ones is a must. A chemical free, organic vegetable market is one attraction for visitors in Thimphu.
Then, drive to Paro in the afternoon. The valley of Paro contains a wealth of attractions. Visit Ta Dzong, once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. Afterwards, walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, which has a long and fascinating history. Evening take a stroll around Paro main street.
Day 04 PARO TIGER’S NEST HIKE
Drive from hotel after early breakfast to Tiger’s Nest. The hike to Taktshang from the road point will take you through a well maintained uphill path. It takes around 3 hours to reach the monastery at an average pace. The trail climbs through beautiful pine forests. Stop for rest and light refreshments at the Taktshang cafeteria, which offers stunning views of the monastery and the valley below.
In the Paro valley you will also visit the auspicious Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred monument and the Drugyel Dzong, the imposing fortress, which was the strategic vantage point to ward off invasion from the north. In clear weather you can view mount Jomolhari (7314m) from Drugyel Dzong.
Afternoon, drive to watch tower, locally known as Ta-Dzong. Today, it serves as a museum. The seventh floor museum highlights various aspects of Bhutanese culture and history dating back to the 7th century. A short walk downhill takes you to the imposing Rinpung Dzong, the district administrative and religious centre. Walk further down crossing a traditional bridge into Paro town.
Day 05: Depart Paro
After breakfast drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.