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Bhutan is a country that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler, from exploring ancient monasteries to trekking through unspoiled wilderness areas. Popular destinations include the Paro and Punakha valleys, the capital city of Thimphu, and the remote Haa Valley. You are sure to have an unforgettable experience, from its vibrant festivals and colorful cultural traditions to its awe-inspiring landscapes and friendly locals. One of the unique aspects of tourism in Bhutan is its emphasis on sustainability and preservation.
Tour Plan
Arrival in Thimpu
Day 1
On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. With a population of about 90,000, it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light. Evening an exploratory walk around Thimphu Main Street and market area. Also visit the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, interesting items made from local materials. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
Thimpu Sightseeing
Day 2
Today on second day, after breakfast, visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), located at a short drive from Thimphu city center, visitors can get a good overview of the Thimphu valley from the Buddha point. You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley. Commence the “Buddha Nature Train” from Buddha point to Changangkha Lhakhang (02 hours easy hike). Continue visit the Changangkha Lhakhang, which is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu, south of Motithang. After lunch, take a short drive (15 km) to Pangri Zampa, 16th century one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan located just north of Thimphu. Later, visit Trashichhoedzong: This impressive fortress/monastery houses Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of Chief Abbot and central monk body. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3
Thimpu - Punakha
II 75 Kms 3 Hrs Drive II
On day 3, after breakfast at hotel, Drive to Punakha across Dochula pass (3O8Om). In Bhutan, the passes are marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and prayer flag. Dochula pass offers the most spectacular view over the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day. Enroute, proceed for day excursion to Chimi Lhakhang (from hotel it is about 15 minutes’ drive till motorable road and then walk starts through paddy fields and villages. This is total about 1½ hour walk, including both way). The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the center of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers. After checking into hotel, proceed to visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. Evening can be spent exploring Punakha village located right on the bank of river. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.
Punakha Sightseeing
Day 4
After breakfast, hike up through fields of chilies, cabbages and rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens and consecrated in 1999. Later visit to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery. Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking valleys of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang(Temple). The temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig chagtong chentong). Other statues include those of Guru Padma Sambawa, Gautama Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, Tsela Namsum, the 21 Taras and Tsepamay (Buddha of longevity). The Avalokiteshvara statue, one of the biggest in the country, was the handiwork of entirely local Bhutanese artisans. The temple complex also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre for nuns where, apart from religious trainings, it provides life skill training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka painting. Overnight at the hotel in Punakha
Day 5
Punakha to Paro
II 120 Kms 4.5 Hrs Drive II
After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Paro along scenic highway, enroute visit SimtokhaDzong, the oldest fortress of the country built in 1627 which now houses the School for Buddhist studies. On arrival in Paro, check into the hotel. After lunch, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons &armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Ta Dzong visit immediately followed by a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (ParoDzong), meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru and other cosmic Mandala. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Paro Sightseeing
Day 6
On Day 6, after breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro Valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and was visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of the building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendor. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
Day 7
Departure at Paro
On the final day, finish your breakfast and check out of the hotel. Our driver will drop you at Paro International Airport. Regardless of the type of tour you choose in Bhutan, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience, from its vibrant festivals and colorful cultural traditions to its awesome inspiring landscapes and friendly locals. Bhutan is a country that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler, well MagicBox Holiday service and tour ends here with unforgettable memories.
Inclusions
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Accommodation in luxury hotels on 01 double occupancy room
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Daily breakfast at the hotel.
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WiFi on board
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All city transfer and sightseeing as per the itinerary in chauffer driven A/C Car
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All airport transfers by chauffer driven A/C car
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Intercity transfers and sightseeing by chauffer driven car
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General English-Speaking Chauffeur
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Toll taxes, parking, and fuel All applicable taxes.
Exclusions
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Extras at the hotel
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Meals in hotels other than specified in the inclusions
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Monuments entry fees
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Personal purchase
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Any Airfare
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Anything not mentioned in Inclusion List