Glimpse of Bhutan

Morning after breakfast, city tour of Thimpu, visiting National Memorial Chorten. The construction of this temple was started by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernisation, and as a monument to world peace. Later, after the death of Third King, The Royal Queen Mother completed it and also made memorial stupa for the Third King who passed away in 1972. Also visit 12th century Changangkha Temple and Drubthob monastery housing the Zilukha Nunnery.

Later visit School for Arts and Crafts where students are taught the 13 types of Bhutanese art, The National Library housing the collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8thcentury, the Traditional Paper Factory displaying the Bhutanese paper making process, and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum. If time allows, you may visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan, and Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’. It was initially erected in 1641 by ShabdrungNgawang Namgyal, it was rebuilt in the 1960s during the reign of Bhutan’s third king in the traditional style, without plans or nails. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Morning after breakfast, drive to Punakha. Drive through the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks. In the Dochu-La area, there are mammoth Rhododendron forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early May covering the mountainsuprising of splendid spring colour.

Later drive to Punakha valley for a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly, known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He preached people that religion is an inner feeling and not obligatory that one should be an ordained monk. Devotees visit his temple for blessing of fertility and children.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through rice fields and up to KhamsumYueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk.Also visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breath-taking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver.

Later drive back to Thimphu where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores. Afterwards proceed to Paro, visiting Semtokha Dzong en-route. The Dzong, built in 1627, is the oldest in Bhutan. It now houses the Institute for Language and Culture studies. Upon arrival at Paro, check-in at hotel.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Morning after breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery. The track is a 02 hrs walking uphill. Who cannot hike, can hire a pony to reach viewing point. The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also famous pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. It is believed that The great Guru Rimpoche have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan during the 8th Century.

Afternoon visit 17thCentury Drukgyel Dzong, an historic monument built by the Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. On shiny day, the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a spectacularbackground. On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.

Overnight stay at hotel.