The “Highlight of Bhutan Tour” offers a unique chance to explore Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning dzongs, which are vital symbols of the country’s identity and history.
These impressive fortresses, often located on hilltops or by rivers, showcase Bhutanese architectural artistry.
The tour includes visits to Thimphu, the vibrant capital where modernity meets tradition, and Paro, known for its breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. In Thimphu, you’ll see the Memorial Chorten, Trashichhoe Dzong, and the Zorig Chusum Institute, which highlights
traditional arts and crafts. You’ll also visit the Changangkha Lhakhang temple and the historic Simtokha Dzong.
In Paro, the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery (Tiger’s Nest), and the Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower, will impress you with their grandeur and significance.
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Hotel/Lodge
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5 days
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Most of the places
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Local bus/jeep
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Throughout year
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Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Trip Highlights
- Flight to Paro International Airport.
- 4 nights and 5 days tour package with all included.
- Explore Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, and its unique culture.
- Visit Paro for its breathtaking landscapes and history.
- Key highlights include visits to Gangtey, Punakha, and Wangdi.
- Tiger's Nest Monastery, or Taktsang, is a key landmark.
Itinerary
Enjoy a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas to reach Paro Airport.
Proceed directly to Thimphu upon arrival.
Transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Make a brief stop to appreciate the beautiful Tamchhog Lhakhang, the ancestral site of Bhutan’s renowned iron bridge builder.
In the afternoon, explore the following attractions:
Visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to Bhutan’s third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, showcasing remarkable Buddhist art and sculptures.
End the day at Trashichhoedzong, known as the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” which functions as both a governmental and religious hub, containing the throne of the monarch and the Chief Abbot’s seat. Originally constructed in 1641, it was later reconstructed in the 1960s using traditional methods.
Take a leisurely walk through the town in the late afternoon, soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with shops, markets, and locals in traditional dress.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Transport, Private vehicle
Exploring Thimphu and its surroundings requires several days with an expert guide to appreciate their unique offerings. Key sites include:
Tashichhodzong: The administrative hub of Thimphu, known for its stunning architecture and a courtyard with a large Buddha statue.
National Library: Home to ancient manuscripts, woodblock prints, and the world’s largest book on Buddhism and Bhutan.
Zorig Chusum Institute: Teaches thirteen traditional Bhutanese crafts, highlighting their rich symbolism and history.
Changangkha Lhakhang : Offers breathtaking valley views and is historically significant due to its 15th-century monastery.
Simtokha Dzong: A military fortress overseeing routes to the capital.
National Memorial Chorten: Dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, featuring golden spirals and insights into Tantric Buddhism.
Local Zoo: Home to the unique takin, a creature created by Lama Drukpa Kuenley.
Additional attractions include a traditional paper factory, the Museum of Popular Traditions and Textiles, a vibrant weekly market, and lively shopping streets.
These sites provide a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s rich culture and heritage, making your visit educational and memorable.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Transport, Private vehicle
We are departing from Thimphu and heading to Paro, where we will embark on an exploration of the country’s second city.
The Nemi Zam is a striking wooden bridge with guardhouses leading to the Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that was rebuilt after a fire in 1907 and now serves as the district administration’s headquarters and a monastic community, featuring remarkable Buddhist paintings.
Originally a 17th-century watchtower, the Ta Dzong became the National Museum in 1968, showcasing the region’s cultural wealth through traditional costumes, textiles, and artifacts within impressive architecture.
North of the city, Dungtse Lhakhang is notable for its cylindrical shape and stunning wall paintings, making it a significant cultural site.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Transport, Private vehicle
In the morning, embark on a hike to the Taktsang Monastery, a highly regarded pilgrimage destination in the Himalayas, famously referred to as the “Tiger’s Nest,” situated 800 meters above the valley floor.
The monastery derives its name from a legend in which Padmasambhava is said to have flown from Tibet on a tiger to meditate in a cave.
The demanding forested trail culminates at a viewpoint of 2900 meters, providing breathtaking vistas of the temple adorned with prayer flags, which features a prominent statue of Padmasambhava along with various artistic representations of him. A lunch break can be enjoyed at this viewpoint on the return journey from the monastery.
We will also explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most exquisite temples, established in the 7th century. This site is one of two sacred locations created to subdue a demon in the Himalayas, allowing you to delve into its rich history and spiritual significance.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Transport, Private vehicle
Meals, Breakfast
Transport, Private vehicle
