Uma Paro Himalayan Escape[4 Days]
From bustling markets to prayer flag-strewn mountain passes, from happy monks in maroon robes to massive ancient fortresses, Bhutan is a Shangri La for image-makers. In the month of June the summer landscape takes on a luscious green with rice paddy fields covering all of Paro Valley, wild flowers strewn like dots of paint on the alpine meadows. In November the monsoon clouds are a distant memory and the landscape snap s into sharp focus with crystal light, inky skies and fabulous mountain views.
Uma Paro has developed this unique seven-night adventure for photographers of all levels and interests. An experienced photographer will accompany the group, our time divided between the two distinctly different valleys of Paro and Punakha. It will be a combination of location shoots and serendipitous meetings or happy accidents with friendly locals along the way.
Arrival, check-in, show round and first photo opp. Login Bhutan representative will welcome you at the airport for the 10-minute transfer to the property. After lunch, in order to aid acclimatisation and to get your bearings, we invite you for an introductory photo opp with a short, guided local walk. Stroll through bustling Paro Town and out to the massive Rinpung Dzong’s Fortress on a Heap of Jewels. The trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam). This bridge provided the backdrop for scenes in the feature films, Little Buddha and Travellers and Magicians. In the evening, please join us for a welcome dinner and photographic adventure briefing with slide show.
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). The trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam) and then past the main archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace and into Paro town.
Drive a few kilometres north of Paro, and we pay our respects at Kyichu Lhakhang; this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with its magic orange tree that bears fruit all year round. Time permitting; we drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to control the northern route to Tibet (from here, it is only a two-day hike to the border with Tibet, dominated by Mt Jhomalhari).
Duration: 5-7 hours (depending on time spent in National Museum and Paro)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
One of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan,Taktsang Goemba defies logic, gravity, and reason. Legend has it that this cliff side 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, and 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. Return to Uma Paro in the afternoon for some time to rest and relax and enjoy the facilities such as the steam rooms, swimming pool or a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath followed by a soothing massage. In the evening you are invited for a firelit farewell dinner either in the courtyard at Uma Paro or at our Bukhari restaurant.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Guided with support vehicle and picnic
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. Return to Uma Paro in the afternoon for some time to rest and relax and enjoy the facilities such as the steam rooms, swimming pool or a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath followed by a soothing massage. In the evening you are invited for a fire lit farewell dinner either in the courtyard at Uma Paro or at our Bukhari restaurant.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Guided with support vehicle and picnic
Details |
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START | Paro |
FINISH | Thimphu |
DESTINATIONS | Paro-Thimphu |
DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Paro International Airport |
DEPARTURE TIME | Please arrive at least 2 and 1/2 hours before the flight. |
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Spring (March to May) and autumn (September and October) are the best time for touring and trekking in Bhutan. The months of April and May offer the natural grandeur of rhododendron blooms whereas Bhutan observes its biggest festivals during spring.
We will organize this trip on the dates requested by you. Please Contact Us for your customized departure date.
Our website contains as much information as possible about this trip. However, if you wish to discuss any aspect of this trip or your suitability for it please contact us.
Note: This itinerary is a sample itinerary to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. We have designed this itinerary including the best cultural and natural aspects of this country. We can further customize the itinerary to suit your specific interest and needs. Please Talk to Us for more details. Itinerary is subject to flight and hotel availability.
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