Een glimp van Bhutan

The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, offering dazzling scenic views of some of the world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro valley, you will sweep past forested hills with the silvery Pa Chu (Paro river) meandering down the valley below. Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (watchtower) on the hills above the town will be a fine sight. Our representative will receive you and will drive to Thimphu with sightseeing along the way.

Drive towards the capital city, Thimphu.

• En route, treat yourself to an invigorating stop at Tachog Lhakhang, the mesmerizing Iron Chain Bridge temple over the meandering Pa Chhu (Paro River). Immerse in the refreshing breeze and vibrant prayer flags, an enchanting feast for the senses!

• Before continuing your journey to Thimphu, make an auspicious start by lighting 108 butter lamps at the Wangsisina nunnery, as the warm glow of the lamps fills you with positivity and blessings.

• As you arrive in Thimphu, make your way up to Kuenselphodrang, where the majestic Buddha Dordenma statue stands tall against the backdrop of the evening sunset. Gaze in awe at the breathtaking view of the city of Thimphu from this tranquil mountain, and feel your soul rejuvenated by the peaceful atmosphere.
• Visit Dechen Phodrang monastery, where around 300 monks seek education. It is a great place to interact with young monks and to check out the monk way of life. For the people who are interested in history and paintings, the monastery has paintings that date back to the 12th century and it is one of the amazing places to see in Thimphu.
• Visit National Memorial Chorten
• As night falls, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Thimphu town, where the vibrant energy of modern Bhutanese life comes to life. Absorb the magnificent aura of the capital city.

­ 

All Above schedule is possible if your arrival is before 12:00

­ 

Embark on a delightful journey to the picturesque Punakha valley after enjoying a delicious breakfast. Experience the enchantment of the unfolding mountains as you drive from Thimphu to the golden landscapes of Punakha valley.

­ 

On the way stop at Dochula Pass 3,100 meters above sea level to admire the Mountain pass marked 108 Chortens (Buddhist Shrines). Enjoy the mesmerizing panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks over a cup of hot coffee or tea at the cafeteria. 

If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the north east will be revealed in all their glory. On a clear day, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m) a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m. 

­ 

You may hoist consecrated prayer flags here while wishing for good fortune and peaceful life; as well as well-being of all sentient being. Traditional wisdom holds that prayer flags and incense offering ought to be flown at mountain passes for auspiciousness.

­ 

• Discover the peculiar phallus village and Temple of the Divine Mad Monk (Chimi Lhakhang)

Upon reaching Punakha, walk along the trail that passes by the typical Yuwakha village homes which are decorated with variously sized phalluses thought to fend off evil, increase fertility, and bring good fortune. This clustered village is surrounded by rice and mustard fields until you reach the hillock where the Divine Mad Monk Temple is situated.

• Punakha Dzong

­ 

A short drive through the valley floor will lead you to the Palace of Great Bliss or Punakha Dzong.  Feast your eyes to the intricate carvings and sculptors of the Dzong; capture the impressive architecture of this historic Dzong strategically located between two rivers. There are plenty of opportunities for photography to capture the architecture, wood carving, sculpture and paintings, etc.

­ 

Punakha suspension bridge

Cross the famous Punakha suspension bridge over Pho Chhu River. Admire breathtaking views and explore the neighboring village, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Overnight At Punakha

Drive back to Paro.

Retrace your way back from Punakha to Paro for a second chance to see the mountain ranges at the Dochula pass. 

Upon arriving Paro Get your energy up for a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Venture through the pristine forest to get to the monastery resting on a cliff 900 meters off the Paro valley.

Hike up to Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Taktsang- the most iconic sites of Bhutan. Tiger’s Nest or Taktsang acquires its name from the legend of its foundation, when in the 8th Century Guru Rinpoche, widely revered as the second Buddha in Bhutan, arrived from Tibet flying across the mountains on the back of a tigress and meditated here for three months and blessed the place by his presence and preached tantric Buddhism in Bhutan.

Overnight at Hotel

End of your travel to Bhutan. Our team will drive you to the Airport and bid farewell.