BHUTAN THE LAND OF HAPPINESS. The journey of a lifetime, every time. 07 Nights/08 Days. Paro Thimphu Gangtey - Punakha - Paro

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1 BHUTAN THE LAND OF HAPPINESS Paro Thimphu Gangtey - Punakha - Paro 07 Nights/08 Days The journey of a lifetime, every time

2 TOUR OVERVIEW A journey to Bhutan will take you to a fascinating and absolutely magical world with gorgeous Himalayan landscapes, impressive architecture of Dzongs and monasteries and stunning nature. Interacting with local people and learning about their traditional Buddhist culture will show you a complete picture of this place full of charm and mystery. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS PARO: Enjoy the scenic trek to the famous Tiger s Nest monastery. THIMPU: Enjoy a spectacular 360 degree view of Thimphu at Buddha Point. GANGTEY: Visit Gangtey Monastery and take a stroll through the village to interact with the locals and learn about their lifestyle. PUNAKHA: Visit Punakha Dzong, hike up through fields of chilies, cabbage and rice, and visit nearby villages and temples DAY BY DAY DAY 01: PARO THIMPU The flight to Paro is one of the most scenic in the world. The plane flies through the mighty Himalayan peaks and this is as close to the roof of the world as one might get. After immigration formalities you will be welcomed by our representative and drive around 55 km to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan. On arrival in Thimphu check into the hotel. The capital city of Bhutan and also Bhutan s political, religious and economical centre, Thimphu is an intriguing destination that combines its ancient traditions with modern developments. The day is at leisure as you get acclimatized to the high altitude. You have the option of taking an exploratory walk around the local market place later in the day, and also visiting the local crafts bazar which offers genuine Bhutanese arts & crafts. DAY 02: THIMPU After breakfast, drive to the North of Thimphu to see the Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). Here, visitors can admire the huge and beautifully decorated Buddha statue as well as enjoy a spectacular 360 degrees view of Thimphu. 2

3 In the afternoon, visit the Textile Museum, and learn about Bhutan s living national art of weaving, called thagzo. Here, one can see the most important weaving techniques, and different styles of local dresses and textiles. Afterwards, visit Simply Bhutan Museum which displays ancient Bhutanese architecture. In the evening, visit Trashi Chhoe Dzong, also known as the fortress of the glorious religion. Both a government and religious centre, the Dzong brings to the city a regal and monastic splendour. DAY 03: THIMPU - GANGTEY On the way to Gangtey enjoy a scenic drive (around 135 km) through the mountains and take a brief stop at Dochu-la to soak into the amazing beauty of the Eastern Himalayan range, before continuing to Gangtey. The main attraction here is the Gangtey Monastery. In the valley is the village of Phobjikha. With its vast open spaces and surrounding peacefulness, this valley is one of the most spectacular valleys in Bhutan. The black necked cranes migrate here in winter to escape the arid climate in the North and enjoy the milder climate here. After a visit to the monastery, take stroll through the village and get an opportunity to interact with locals learning about their simple lifestyle, as well as admire the beautiful architecture and décor of the Bhutanese farm houses. DAY 04: GANGTEY - PUNAKHA After breakfast, drive about 130 km to Punakha (approximately five hours) and admire on your way the peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. 3

4 In Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong the administrative and religious centre of the region. Punakha Dzong played a pivotal role in Bhutan s history and is currently fully restored after having been damaged by catastrophic fires and an earthquake. Later in the day take a memorable hike through the paddy fields to Chimi Lakhang a temple built in the late 15th century, and is popular amongst couples who seek blessings for fertility. In the evening, take a stroll through Punakha village and explore the daily life of villagers. DAY 05: PUNAKHA After breakfast, drive to the village of Talo, built on a plateau and offering charming views of the surrounding villages. Talo is famous for its cleanliness and for its lovely farm houses, each of which has its own flower garden. Later visit Nalanda Buddhist Institute - a Buddhist monastic school where young monks study the principles of Buddhism. Here you can interact with the students and their teachers and also sip from a cup of buttered tea while enjoying the splendid views. In the afternoon, hike up through fields of chilies, cabbages and rice to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. This four-storied temple was built following Buddhist Scriptures guidelines and it is a beautiful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture. It is dedicated to the harmony and well-being of the Kingdom. DAY 06: PUNAKHA - PARO After breakfast drive 127 km to Paro (approximately five hours) and en route visit Simtokha Dzong which translates to Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras. This Dzong also houses an institute for teaching the Dzongha language. 4

5 Upon arrival in Paro, check-in at hotel. Paro is a beautiful location hosting many of the country s oldest monasteries and temples, it is one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan and it is home to the country s only airport. In the afternoon, visit the Ta Dzong which exhibits a large array of antiques including paintings, textiles, weapons and other historical artefacts. Later, visit the Archery ground where you participate in a short archery session. Archery is not only Bhutan s national sport but it is also a celebration of their way of life and an integral part off all the festivities in the country. DAY 07: PARO After breakfast, drive to Satsam Chorten and en route stop at Kyichu Lhakhang one of Bhutan s oldest and most impressive temples. At Satsam Chorten you will start a lovely hike through beautiful pine forests to reach Taktsang Monastery also called Tiger s Nest. Tiger s Nest Monastery is built on a cliff overlooking Paro valley and offering breathtaking views. Considered one of the world s most powerful and spiritual places, it is also one of Bhutan s most sacred religious sites. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche, the founding father of the Bhutanese form of Bhuddism, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery. Later in the day, time permitting, visit Neyphug Monastery, a charitable foundation home to underprivileged and orphan children. DAY 08: DEPART PARO Today your tour in Bhutan comes to an end. We arrange your drop to Paro Airport, from where you will board your flight back home. If required, our representative will be at hand to assist you with a smooth check-out from the hotel and escort you to the airport. 5

6 We advise you to arrive at the airport at least 3 hrs prior to departure and keep your passport and a printout of airline ticket handy to avoid last minute hassles. This itinerary is only a slice of the wonderful diversity and beauty that Bhutan has to offer and we hope that you will return soon to discover more. Namaste! EXTENSIONS Travel to the scenic country of Nepal Discover the city of joy Kolkata OVERALL HIGHLIGHTS Visit fortress-like Dzongs and photograph prayer flags whipping in the wind Take a stroll through the scenic Phobjikha village Enjoy gentle hikes through rice fields and farmers paths Visit Tiger s Nest monastery INCLUSIONS Accommodation Transport Guide Entrances Not included is travel insurance, tips and any expense of personal nature 6

7 Contact Us Samakhushi Marg, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: , Fax: Website: