Elegant Bhutan
by rengaholidays
DAY 01
Arrival in Paro and transfer to Thimphu
Upon arrival in Paro, you will be received by our representative and guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Thimphu (55 km/ 2 hour drive). Depending on your arrival time, you may relax or proceed for city sightseeing. Visit the interesting Weekend Market (Thu-Sun), where vegetable vendors from different parts of the country come to sell their products.
DAY 02
Thimphu Sightseeing
In the morning, visit the Handmade Paper Mill and the School of Arts and Crafts (closed on Sundays/government holidays) where students learn 13 different Bhutanese arts. Visit the nearby Folk Heritage Museum and Day 2 Thimphu Sightseeing: In the morning, visit the Handmade Paper Mill and the School of Arts and Crafts (closed on Sundays/government holidays) where students learn 13 different Bhutanese arts. Visit the nearby Folk Heritage Museum and National Library before lunch. After lunch, drive past the Memorial Chorten built in memory of the 3rd King. Visit Buddha Viewpoint, Changangkha Lhakhang (the oldest temple in the valley), the Enclosure where the national animal (Takin) are kept, and Zilukha Nunnery. Overnight in Thimphu
DAY 03
Thimphu to Punakha
Day 3 Thimphu to Punakha: Today's drive passes through Dochula Pass at 3150m, known as the most beautiful pass in Bhutan. The 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens mark the pass's importance. When the weather permits, enjoy a spectacular 180-degree view of Bhutan's highest mountains. After a photo break, continue the drive to the warm valley of Punakha. In the afternoon, visit the most beautiful Punakha Dzong, which showcases the finest example of the arts and crafts of Bhutan. Overnight in Punakha (Altitude 1350m)
DAY 04
Punakha to Phobjikha (98 km/ 3 hour drive):
Day 4 Punakha to Phobjikha (98 km/ 3 hour drive): Check out and visit Chimi Lhakhang on foot, the temple of fertility associated with the religious art of phallus. En route, visit the ruin of Wangdi Dzong and continue to Phobjikha over a pass at 3140m. Visit Gangtey Gompa, the largest and only monastery of the Nyingmapa sect in western Bhutan. In the evening, relax or take a stroll. Overnight in Phobjikha (Altitude 2900m)'
DAY 05
Phobjikha to Paro (200 km/ 6 hour drive) & Paro Sightseeing:
After an early breakfast, drive to Paro. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum, the first of its kind, with collections ranging from natural history to religious paintings. Visit the 17th-century Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and walk through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest temples built in the 7th century. Evening, stroll the old Paro town and explore local handicrafts stores.
DAY 06
Paro Sightseeing: The Tiger's Nest Hike:
In the morning, hike to the Tiger's Nest Temple (Paro Taktsang). This most revered temple hangs on a granite cliff overlooking the Paro valley at 900m above the floor. The temple is associated with Guru Rimpoche, who visited and meditated there in the 8th century. It is a 2-hour walk uphill for an average hiker, though it may take the almost entire day. Evening, return to the hotel and relax.
DAY 07
Departure:
Day 7 Departure: Take away the sweet memories of Bhutan. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Departure Export to Sheets
Inclusion & Exclusion
- Accommodation
- Guide
- Meals
- Transport
- Additional Services
- Flights
- Insurance
- Optional