Paro Tshechu

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Our representative will meet you at Paro airport exit doors following customs formalities.

After lunch enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum housing many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. Next, drive to, 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Kyichu is built in a manner similar to the Jokhang in Lhasa. Inside there is a great golden image of Buddha Shakyamuni. Before dinner at the hotel there will be an orientation on Bhutanese etiquette by your guide. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

• Early Morning: Head to the Paro Dzong courtyard to witness the last day of Paro Tshechu. Today will be unfurling of the giant thongdroel, an enormous embroidered thangka (scroll painting) depicting Guru Rinpoche, his eight major manifestations, his consorts, and his religious masters.
• Afternoon: Visit Ta Dzong (Paro National Museum) to learn about Bhutan’s rich history and culture.

• Morning: Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched on a cliffside. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paro Valley and experience the monastery’s spiritual significance.
• Afternoon: After your descent, have lunch and travel to Thimphu.
  • On the way, visit the famous iron bridge which connects to Tagchogang Temple. The iron chain bridge dates back to the 15th century and was constructed by iron builder Drupthop Thangthong Gyalpo. 
• Evening: Check in the hotel and if it is not very late go to town to explore and for dinner or have dinner at the hotel.

Start your morning with hearty breakfast  and start your leisure sightseeing of Thimphu valley.

• Buddha Doredenma at Kuenselphodrang
• Textile Museum and see different kind of weaving and textiles produced in the local market.
• Visit Simply Bhutan – which is a living museum showcasing the Bhutanese arts and crafts. Play archery, wear Bhutanese attire and check out the arts and crafts.
• Visit Kaja Throm – a newly renovated farmers market selling different varieties of locally grown vegetables, pulses and incense.
• Visit Tashi Chhodzong, the main secretariat building. This massive structure houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot and the senior monks. 

After breakfast, moving to Gangtey/Phobjikha would take about 3 to 4 hours and it is a scenic drive through  beautiful forests of rhododendron and fields of dwarf bamboo, green meadows, beautiful  wildflowers, gushing waterfalls and constantly changing vegetation. 

On the way:

• After a 45 minutes drive, you will reach Dochula pass (3,100m), offering you the first glimpse of the eastern Himalayan Ranges, consisting of snow-capped mountain peaks with heights ranging from 6000m to 7554m. During the stopover there, you can also see the 108 stupas (chortens) built around a mound.

Overnight – Phobjikha

Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley, is a beautiful glacial valley in central Bhutan. It is a major wintering ground for black-necked cranes, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Here are some things you can do in Phobjikha:

• Visit the Gangtey Monastery: This impressive ancient Buddhist monastery of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism overlooks the valley and offers stunning views.
• Hike the Gangtey Nature Trail:This trail offers moderate hikes through pine forests and meadows, with breathtaking views of the valley.
• Spot Black-Necked Cranes:Phobjikha Valley is a major wintering ground for black-necked cranes, an endangered species. You can visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre to learn more about these birds and take a guided birdwatching tour.

• Explore the local villages: Get a glimpse into the lives of the Bhutanese people by visiting some of the local villages around Phobjikha.

Move towards Punakha for night halt.

After breakfast you will visit –

• Embark on a moderate 1.5-2 hour uphill hike through rice terraces, forests, and villages to reach the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. Explore the beautiful temple and enjoy panoramic views of the Punakha Valley. Descend back to the valley and have lunch.
• Punakha Fortress and suspension bridge, which looks like a giant ship rocked on a still mass of water from far. Built on the confluence of two rivers, the Pho (male) and Mo (female) rivers, the Dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still home of the Chief Abbot in winter months. It was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and has played a prominent role in the civil and religious history of the Kingdom. Destroyed four times by fire and an earthquake in 1897, the Dzong has been now fully restored in its original splendor.
• Chimi Lhakhang, a temple where the Phallus is worshiped and associated with Lam Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Mad Monk.”

Drive back to Paro via Thimphu. Take your time to take a clear mountain view at the Dochula Pass. Then drive back to Thimphu. Have a brief stop or do shopping and continue your journey back to Paro. 

At Paro:

• National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower). Here an intriguing collection of artifacts provide a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom.
• Paro Dzong, a fine example of Bhutanese historic architecture. From the Dzong, walk further down to Nyamai Zampa, a traditional cantilever bridge

After breakfast, you will be driven Paro airport for your onward journey.