TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Visit to a Buddhist school teaching Lamaism and Astrology to novice monks
- Catch a glimpse of some of the most famous peaks of the Himalayas
- Rural Bhutan experience
- Explore the oldest fortress of Bhutan
- The world famous Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest
Bhutan is still regarded as one of the last “Shangri-La’s” in the Himalayan region because of its remoteness, its spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and its unique ancient Buddhist monasteries. As they say, Bhutan is the closest some of us will get to heaven. This tour takes in Bhutan’s strategic fortresses known as Dzongs, numerous ancient temples, monasteries and stupas which dot the countryside, see colourful prayer flags which flutter along the high ridges, wild animals which abound in dense forests, spectacular waterfalls and most importantly the warm smiles and gentleness of its friendly people. Why else can Bhutan rate its progress by the Gross National Happiness scale, or GNH, rather than GNP!
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day |
Activity |
City |
Accommodation type |
| 1 |
On arrival at Paro airport you will be met and driven to Thimpu and check in to your hotel.Later explore the city, visiting Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang)from where one can get a good overview of Thimphu. Walk around Thimphu’s main streets and market area to get an understanding of the city. |
Thimphu | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 2 |
After breakfast, short drive to Pangri Zampa, the 16th century monastery, located just north of Thimphu. Ithas a monastic school where Buddhist monks learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy. Explore the other city highlights during the day’s tour. |
Thimphu | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 3 |
This morning drive up to Dochu-la pass(3,088m/ 10,130 ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, Mani Wall and Prayer Flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear numerous Himalayan peaks can be seen. Drive to Punakha and check in. |
Punakha | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 4 | Day for visiting the city’s monastery and nunnery as well as exploring rural Bhutan & the Buddhist Institute. | Punakha | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 5 |
Drive to Paro. En-route visit one of the oldest fortress of Bhutan and the watchtower which houses a museum. Evening to explore the Paro market. |
Paro | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 6 |
Visit the word famous Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx 5 hours round trip walk); Zong and enjoy a visit to a Bhutanese farmhouse. |
Paro | Luxury / Boutique / Heritage |
| 7 | Transfer to the airport for flight back home | Paro-departure |