Arrival in Paro, Bhutan

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 Dheywang Tours and Treks
representative will meet you at Paro airport exit doors following customs formalities. Wind through pine forests high above Uma Paro to the pretty grounds of the fortress-like monastery of Zurig Dzong. Traverse across to Ta Dzong, housing Bhutan’s National Museum with magnificent views over Paro, and on down to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels). Paro Dzong was built in 17th century by Zhabdrung( founder fo Bhutan)After dzong visit you will continue walking down, trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam) and then past the main archery ground.

Paro to Punakha

Morning after breakfast you will drive to punakha via Thimphu and over the Dochu-La pass (3,150 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3  and 1/2 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdom. In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early May covering the mountains in a riot of glorious spring colour.

After lunch, enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly who is also known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing. Hotel:

Punakha

In the morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through rice fields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill on the bank of the river, the Chorten houses paintings belonging to Nyingmapa Traditions.Take a picnic lunch on a picturesque riverside after picnic lunch,
Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the “Unifier of Bhutan”. It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers) and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.Overnight stay at hotel.

Punakha to Paro

After breakfast drive back to Thimphu- Paro en-route Dochula pass. We will be having second chances to see the eastern Himalayas. Lunch at Thimphu. Afternoon we will visit the, Giant sitting buddha(68mtr) and National memorial Stupa of late 3rd King. School for Arts and Crafts where students are taught the 13 types of Bhutanese art, If there is time, you may visit the traditional Hand made paper factory and live painting. If there is time, you may visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan.

Highlights Taktsang Monastery

One of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan,Taktsang Goemba defies logic, gravity, and reason. Legend has it that this cliffside was where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. To avoid the hot sun an early start is advisable for the two-hour climb to the Tiger’s Nest viewpoint. Descend steeply, then climb up to the monastery, passing a waterfall and entering through the main gates which are filled with murals. Retrace our steps or alternatively (if time and energy levels allow) head further up to several remote temples and monasteries.On the way back you will visit the one of the oldest temple built in 7th century Kiychu Monastery.Overnight at five star hotel.

Departure Day

Today we will bid fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take an early flight back to your destination. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek!