DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN PARO TO THIMPHU (2 HRS DRIVE)
On arrival in Paro International Airport, complete the immigration formalities and exit. Our representative will welcome you and proceed to Thimphu which will take 2 hrs approx. Enroute stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers. On arrival, in Thimphu check-into the hotel. Evening you are free to walk around Thimphu main Street and market area. Overnight stay at the Hotel in Thimphu.
DAY 02: THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING
After breakfast at hotel, start the day for local sightseeing –
Visit Buddha viewpoint: The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in KuenselPhodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. Drive pass by Memorial:It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. The National Memorial Chorten was built in memory of Late Third King of Bhutan and dedicated to World Peace. Third King is regarded as father of modern Bhutan.
Folk Heritage Museum: This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar- Bhutan’s first ever craft bazaar located behind Hotel TajTashi showcases wide range of authentic Bhutan-made arts and craft products with reasonable price range.
Simply Bhutan: Flaunting the rich Bhutanese culture to the world, Simply Bhutan Museum displays the impressive traditions and gives a glimpse of the country’s history. A one-of-its kind “living” museum, visitors get to enjoy the Bhutanese songs, folk dances and finger-licious cuisine. One can actually live the country’s culture by trying on traditional clothes and archery. Apart from being a living museum, Simply Bhutan is also a photo studio, where the Bhutanese culture is promoted and preserved. Here, the main target is the youth since the future of the country is in their hands. Workshops and training programmes are organized from time to time which majorly involves young people and trains them in various skills. This also provides wonderful employment opportunities to the young population of the nation. From religious values to the rural lifestyle, one can get a peek into every little detail concerning Bhutan.
Handicraft Emporium: Realizing the importance of socio-economic growth, handicraft emporium was set up with the command of His Majesty 3rd King, this was the first step to showcase the authentic Bhutanese handicraft products in Bhutan. You can still find some of the fine products available here at reasonable cost.
Clock Tower Square: Situated in the heart of town, Clock Tower Square is a popular venue for open ground events such as cultural festivals, concerts, fund- raising events, live shows and trade fairs. The place is bounded by shops, cafes, souvenir shops and restaurants, making it one of the main attractions in the Thimphu town. Overnight in Thimphu.
DAY 03: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA (2 HRS DRIVE)
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours. After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan.
Dochula pass: The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Punakha Dzong: Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named DrukPungthangDechenPhodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King JigmeDorjiWangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands inbetween meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan.
Punakha Suspension Bridge: Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu River. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan. In order to access the suspension bridge from the dzong, one must walk past the King’s palace and the cremation ground. Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m.
DAY 04: PUNAKHA TO PARO (3 HRS DRIVE)
As we proceed to Paro, we will retrace the journey crossing over Dochula, up until Chuzom and further to Paro. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas from Dochula.
Chimi Lhakhang, Temple of fertility: This temple is known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike though the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head.
Paro Airport View Point: It is located on the Hill overlooking the airport, this viewpoint offers the best view of the whole airport.
Ta Dzong unique (National Museum): Perched above ParoDzong it was watchtower built in 1649 to protect the undefended ParoDzong located below, renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. Today this museum houses the best collections of all time historical items making worth for a visit.
Visit 17th century Paro Dzong: ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport. The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of ZhabdrungNgawangNamgyal.
Explore the tiny town: Tiny Paro town actually can offer lot more, there are many authentic handicraft shops, readily available Bhutan made products, grocery and imported garment shops beside having many small restaurants around. Later check in hotel. Overnight in Paro.
DAY 05: PARO DEPARTURE
Like all good things, your Bhutan tour will come to an end. After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Paro Airport for departure.
