Bhutan Tour – 5 Days

You are greeted by your Bhutanese guide after arrival at the Paro International Airport. Rest and relax a while at a restaurant or cafe enjoying your lunch or coffee. Firstly, visit the beautiful “Jowo” temple of Kyichu Lhakhang which is the oldest in Bhutan. It is taken as the holy jewel of Bhutan. Witness the real statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, a statue of Chenrezig, a painting of the King Gesar Ling on the wall, a statue of Guru Rinpoche, monk houses, prayer wheels, and two historically significant orange trees in the courtyard. A place is full of art and culture significant to all art lovers and historians.

If time permits, explore the beautiful Paro Dzong which is a classic example of Bhutanese architecture. The gorgeous architecture and photographic scenic views from dzong are worthy to visit this place. “Paro Tsechu” one of the biggest festivals is organized here every year. If you arrive at festival time, then get a chance to participate and enjoy it.

After exploring Paro, you are transferred to Thimphu in the evening. You take a rest and relax here in a hotel. Enjoy Bhutanese cuisine as nightlife here in Thimphu.

Thimphu is the capital as well as the largest city of Bhutan. The traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, and culture hold major significance and can be seen well preserved here in Thimphu. You begin your trip today by traveling to the National Memorial Chorten built in the memory of the third king of Bhutan. Explore the Great Buddha Dordenma and a spectacular view of Thimphu valley from the top. Then, visit the National Library, behind it the National Folk Heritage Museum showcasing rural life. Also, visit the Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts. The 13 traditional arts of Bhutan are well-preserved here and appreciate the students refining their skills. Paintings, carpentry, wood carving, sculpture, casting, metalwork, bamboo carving, gold and silverwork, masonry, weaving, embroidery, leatherwork, and paper-making are these 13 traditional arts being transferred to the new generation to preserve and promote them.

The main highlight of the tour is visiting Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong). “The Fortress of the Glorious Religion” is the most beautiful Bhutanese dzong and seat of the government since 1968. The Utse or Central tower, thirty temples, chapels, and shrines are major attractions there. Later, you travel northeast to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. On the way, stop at beautiful Dochu La Pass (3,100m) for a refreshing tea/coffee. The pass offers a scenic view of the Great Himalayas. Likewise, witness the famous 108 memorial stupas. After lunch at your next stop, along with your guide keep driving to Punakha. Stay overnight at a hotel and enjoy your dinner.

You visit Punakha Dzong with your guide today. It is one of the most beautiful as well as vital dzong in Bhutanese history. The second oldest and second largest dzong in the nation was built without using any nails. It is a place where Bhutan’s national treasures are kept. The dzong is situated between Po and Mo Chu rivers and the access to the dzong is crossing Bazam Bridge. A big white stupa, a Bodhi tree, and the main temples inside the courtyards to the dzong are major attractions. Don’t miss the Punakha festival around mid-Feb if you arrive here at that time.

After exploring Punakha Dzong, drive back to Paro with your Bhutanese guide. Visit the National Museum of Bhutan which looks like a combination of the circular sun and crescent moon. The rich diversity of historical relics and culture from all over Bhutan through its collection of artworks is exhibited. Ancient and modern Thangkas and cultural masks are some remarkable collections to watch there. A gallery showcasing preserved carcasses of animals and birds depicts the biodiversity and wildlife of Bhutan. You feel connected with Bhutan’s history of arts and crafts.

Then we drive to visit the historically important Drukgyel Dzong meaning “Victories Fortress.” You can see the ruins of huge walls, burnt wooden posts, beams, and watchtowers. Enjoy the spectacular view from the top of the hill. Stay overnight at a hotel.

Today you commence your day by trekking to Taktsang Lhakhang. It is widely known as “Tiger’s Nest” and a famous landmark of Bhutan. To travel here is short-listed in every itinerary of Bhutan. It is a 2-hour hike full of beautiful scenery on the way, shady pine forests, many prayer flags, and a panoramic view of Paro valley. The Vajrayana Buddhist temple perched on the edge at 3120m is considered sacred in Bhutan. Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have flown on the back of a tigress and meditated in this cave for over 3 years to calm down the demons. You can also meditate for a while if you wish to. Hike down to Paro afterward.

After lunch, you may opt to soak yourself in a hot stone bath or enjoy exploring nearby.

It’s time to bid farewell to this beautiful nation after a delightful and memorable trip. Your guide departs you to the Paro International Airport.