EXCLUSIVE Bhutan

The flight to Paro is an experience in itself. On a clear day, you can see the majestic Mt. Everest and other Himalayan peaks. As you fly close to the Himalayan range, you can feel the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Once you land in Paro, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

The journey to Paro is truly breathtaking and captivating. The views of the majestic Himalayan range, the lush green valleys, and the snow-capped peaks are simply mesmerizing. As you descend into the valley of Paro, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Paro Dzong, the Ta Dzong, and the Paro River. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel and can explore the city.

Take a journey to the stunning Trashichhoedzong or Thimpu Dzong, a medieval fortress and monastery. Inside, you will find most of the country’s government offices and the King’s Throne room. It is also home to the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot.

Afterward, head to the National Library which contains a large number of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts. Then, drive to the Arts & Crafts School, renowned for its traditional thangka paintings. Here, you will be able to observe students as they craft intricate designs on cloth.

Next, visit the Textile and Folk Heritage Museums, a captivating display of Bhutanese material culture and living traditions. Following lunch, head to the Handicrafts Emporium, where you will find an array of hand-woven and crafted products. Then, make your way to the Memorial Chorten, a Stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s Third King, who is widely known as the Father of modern Bhutan. Inside, you will find paintings and statues that provide an in-depth look into Buddhist philosophy. Finally, drive to Punakha across the Dochula pass (3100 m).

After having breakfast, visit Punakha Dzong, a fortress and religious center constructed in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the junction of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. This historical building has undergone four devastating fires and an earthquake but has been fully restored. Afterward, drive to Wangdiphodrang, a district known for its bamboo products, slate, and stone carvings. Stop at the local market and Dzong before having lunch and heading to Paro.

On the way, make a short stop at Dochula Pass and then visit the oldest fortress of the Kingdom, Simtokha Dzong, which was built in 1627 and now serves as the School for Buddhist Studies and well-known Chhimi Lhakhang – Chhimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is located in Punakha, Bhutan. The temple was built in 1499 by the “Divine Madman”, Drukpa Kuenley, a renowned Bhutanese saint. The temple is renowned for its unique collection of phallus paintings and statues, which are believed to bring fertility and ward off evil spirits. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for childless couples who come to seek blessings for a child.

After breakfast, embark on an excursion to the Taktsang Monastery, the most renowned of Bhutanese monasteries. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here atop a tigress, which is why it is known as the “Tiger’s Nest”. The journey to the monastery and back takes about five hours.

In the afternoon, visit the Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum. Originally built as a watchtower in 1967, it now houses a captivating collection of art, artifacts, thangka paintings, and the country’s exquisite postage stamps. Finally, take a stroll down the trail to Rinpung Dzong, a historic site with an intriguing past.

After breakfast drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.