Duration
5 Nights | 6 Days
Tour Type
Cultural Tour
Location
Bhutan
OVERVIEW
This cultural tour covers western Bhutan and also offers the visitor a brief moment to discover the history of some of the Dzongs (fortresses) and monasteries of Bhutan’s prominent areas.
The itinerary takes you around Thimphu which is the capital city of Bhutan allowing you to discover the history, arts, architecture and traditional life of the Bhutanese people which still remains amidst the vast development activities taking place in the country. Other places of visit are Paro where the Taktsang Monastery is “nested” and Punakha – once the old capital of Bhutan and now the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body of Bhutan.
The journey leads through the twisting mountain roads and through one of the highest passes in Bhutan called Dochu La. Weather permitting, one can experience beautiful views of the mountain ranges located far up in the northern territory of Bhutan.
The hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery is definitely the highlight of this trip presenting a memorable trip to Bhutan.
Itinerary
Arriving at Paro International airport and upon clearing immigration and customs, you will meet with your guide and driver. Drive about 1 hour 30 minutes to Thimphu (2,286m), the capital of Bhutan.
Visit Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Changangkha Lhakhang, Takin Preserve, and explore Kaja Throm market.
The first stop after leaving Thimphu is Dochula pass at 10,500 ft. (23km from Thimphu – 45 minutes drive), where you can see one of Bhutan’s most enchanting views. If weather permits, from this pass, the breathtaking peaks of Bhutan’s northern border can be viewed.
Drive towards Nezergang and hike about 1hour 30 minutes to Khamsum Yueley Namgyel Chorten, built by The Queen Mother, Her Majesty Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck in 1999 for the protection of the country and universal peace in the world.
Day hike to Taktsang Monastery. Taktsang meaning “Tiger’s Nest”, is built around a cave in which Guru Rimpoche (also known as Guru Padmasambhava) meditated. The monastery clings seemingly impossible to a cliff at 914m above the valley floor.
Transfer and departure from Paro International Airport.
Additional Activities
- Archery or Khuru (traditional dart) lesson/demonstration
- Cooking class
- Hot stone bath
- Farmhouse/homestays – OVERNIGHT OR VISIT
- Cultural Program
- Picnic Lunch
- Cycling / Motorcycle rides
- National dress/costume trial
- Gala Dinner And Cocktails
- Private guest lectures on Buddhism and Gross National Happiness.
- Private Yoga Sessions
- Helicopter Rides
- Smoke Offering / Flag Hoisting / Organizing Private Religious Rituals / Spiritual Cleansing Ceremony / Butter Lamp Offering
- School Visits