The Himalayan Wonderland

Fly into Himalayans with Druk Air, Bhutan’s National Air Carrier. The green walls of the hills known as dooars or gateways into Bhutan from the plains climbs continually higher as the plane flies north towards the Tibetan border. Silvery rivers thread the valleys, waterfalls plunge down the forested mountain sides, and to the north, the great snowcapped peaks of the inner Himalaya rise up into the sky. As the aircraft enters the Paro Valley, look down and you will see the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro Chu (river) with Ta Dzong, watch tower, now the National Museum, above it. Upon arrival, meet and assist by our representative and drive through the fascinating valley of Paro. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. O/N in hotel. Evening visit to Paro market and take a stroll through town’s main street. O/N in hotel.

After breakfast, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutanese monasteries. 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. The excursion to monastery takes about 5 hrs for round trip.
Afternoon visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of the Kingdom. Originally built as Watch Tower, it now houses National Museum of the country and boasts antique thangka paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Then walk down the trail to visit Tinpung Dzong which has a long and fascinating history. O/N in hotel.

After breakfast drive to ruins of Drukgyel Dzong. From this fortress, Bhutanese repelled several invading Tibetan armies during the 17th century. Then visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples of the Kingdom, reflecting the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. After that drive to Punakha across Dochula pass (3,080m) which heralds the most enchanting views of Bhutan. Until 1955, Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan and still it is the winter seat of Je Khenpo. Visit Punakha Dzong built in 17th century at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It has been destroyed by four fires and an earthquake in 1897 and has frequently been devastated by flood water coming from the great northern glaciers. The Dzong has now been fully restored to its original splendor.

After breakfast, drive to Wangduephodrang. The last town in the west before arriving at the central region of Bhutan, Wangdue is typical small Bhutanese town. The town’s formidable Dzong is its most visible feature. In the 17th century Wangdue played a critical role in unifying the western, central and southern Bhutanese districts.After lunch, drive to Thimphu, small charming city sandwiched in the heart of Himalayas. Thimphu’s charm is not only embedded in its wealth of museums or places of historic interest but visitors must wander along the main street and into shops, all of which are decorated in traditional style. Evening at leisure. O/N in hotel.

Morning visit, Trashichhoedzong, situated on the banks of Wang Chhu. It is home of the National Assembly and the summer residence of capital’s venerated monastic community. The Dzong is the impressive result of a redesign of the original medieval structure sanctioned by the Third King, HM Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, when he moved Bhutan’s permanent capital to Thimphu. Bhutan’s National Library is located close to the Thangkha painting school and contains arguably the best collection of religious and historic literature in the Himalayas. The Textile and Folk Heritage Museum opened in year 2001 is fascinating testimony of the Bhutanese material culture and living traditions. The Memorial Chhorten, a pious landmark for Thimphu’s residents, was erected in 1974 by the mother of Third King, in memory of her son. Visit Handicrafts Emporium which displays wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products. O/N in hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Paro. Afternoon free to explore the local market. O/N in hotel.

Depart Paro for onward journey.