Magical Glimpse of Bhutan

After breakfast, drive to Kuensel Phodrang where the gigantic 169ft statue of Buddha Dordenma is near completion. Enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city from there while taking a short scenic hike through the Park. From here lets take a beautiful hike on the Kuenselphodrang trail which is the capital city’s favourite hiking trail that lasts for 2 hours. The hike ends at Changangkha monastery and from here drive to the Takin Reserve centre to see the national animal of Bhutan.

Lets visit some of the cultural highlights of the capital city – visit the Zorig- Chusum school of 13 traditional arts/crafts to see local students hone their arts skills in various forms of traditional art. Visit the Folk Heritage museum Then proceed to the Royal Textile Museum and Academy to appreciate the work of Bhutanese weavers and the rich textiles of Bhutan.

After lunch, visit the Crafts Bazaar in the afternoon, along the streets of Thimphu which sells and displays various handicrafts and textiles made entirely in Bhutan. Proceed to the Changlimithang Stadium to witness the national game of Bhutan – Archery – played with much fanfare and festivities over a range of 120m field. Visit the Weekend market for an opportunity to see farmers selling their agricultural produce and get an impression of our culinary ways.

In the evening, drive to Paro and lets visit Bhutan’s first brew pub to have a nice dinner with some nice craft beers. Enjoy some nice live music here as well.

Drive to Punakha over the Dochula Pass (3140m). Situated atop the pass at the backdrop of fluttering prayer flags is the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 chortens (stupas) that was built to exemplify the greatness of the Fourth King.  Descend to the low-lying rice valley of Lobesa and pay your respects to one of Bhutan’s most charming and eccentric historic figures nicknamed ‘The Divine Madman’ at the Chhimi Lhakhang – also called the fertility monastery – our guide will explain the entire story about it. The visit involves a short nice hike through a beautiful village surrounded by paddy fields. Stay in a cozy resort overlooking the valley.

Continue to Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha

region. The fortress is a fine example of Bhutan’s rich art and architecture, and our guide who is an expert in iconography will explain all aspects of art, architecture, history and its significance.

After lunch drive to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 45 minutes till the hilltop where the temple is located. From here you can also enjoy a majestic view of the underlying valley. The temple itself is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions and the only one of its kind in the world. From here you can optionally take another great hike from the riverside crossing a suspension bridge to other side of the Mo Chu river for approximately 3 km with hours hiking.
Overnight in a nice resort
Drive time 3 hours

Drive to Paro after breakfast. Today you’ll experience Bhutan’s most valued attractions, and perhaps the biggest highlight for your trip! An excursion to the famous Taktshang monastery –translated as- Tiger’s nest monastery. The temple was built in 1692 by a prominent historical figure named Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgye whose reincarnation is now a young teenager and already a prominent figure in the clergy. Your guide will complement the experience with its story.

On the way back visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, which is an important Bhutanese heritage as it served as a strategic watchtower and a fortress that helped repel numerous Tibetan invasions in the 1600s. Peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day from here (7,329 mts/24,029 ft.).

Stroll around Paro valley and if you like craft beers, we’ll go to the first brew-pub in Bhutan for a farewell dinner.
Explore the town in the evening on foot, and visit handicrafts shops along the street to appreciate Bhutanese craftsmanship and Art works.
Drive time 3 hour.

After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will drive you to the airport for your onward journey.