The flight into Bhutan takes you the great Himalayas, offering you the most scintillating scenery of the world's highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro valley, you will see the silvery Pa-chu (Paro river ) meandering down the valley, the Paro Dzong (fortress) and the Ta Dzong. Assistance upon arrival at Paro airport and drive to Thimphu.Upon arrival check in at the hotel.Rest of the time at leisure to discover the Capital on your own.Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast visit the Memorable Chorten dedicated to the 03rd King of Bhutan, The Textile Museum & Folk Heritage Museum that provides a fascinating insight into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life. Drive to the 15th century Changakha Lhakhang spectacularly localted on the spur. The Takin Sanctuary near the lhakhang will give the visitor a chance to glance at the National animal of Bhutan, Takin.Also visit the school of Arts and Crafts and the National Library which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion. Next visit Buddha Dordenma which is one of the largest Buddha statue in the World at 169 feet. The body of the Buddha is filled with 1,25,000 smaller statues of Buddha. The view of the Thimphu valley is spectacular from this point
Evening visit the Tashichho Dzong; the main secretarial building which houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and also the head seat of Chief Abbot of Bhutan.Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast depart for Punakha. The view over the Himalayan panoply at Dorchula Pass at 10,500 feet is one of the most spectacular sights in all Bhutan. Added is the 108 chortens (small stupas) making it a visual delight.
Retrace back towards Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang. Take the picturised walk through the paddy field to reach the Chhimi Lhakhang, the Temple of the Devine Mad Man, Drukpa Kuenley. Further drive to Punakha, and visit the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan built in 1637 by Shabdrung, the spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan prior to the present dynasty. It is an old capital, which still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. The first King, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here in 1907. . It is now the winter residence of the Central Monastic Community and administrative headquarters of Punakha district.
Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast depart for Gangtey.
Gangtey is a beautiful place of rolling hills and green meadows surrounded by snowcapped mountains. It is at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtey, one can closely view the picturesque Black Mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Gangtey Gonpa is perched atop a small hill that rises from the valley floor. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens (Lay Monks). The Gangtey Gonpa is the only Nyingmapa Monastery on the western side of the Black mountains and is also the biggest of its kind. Gangtey is also the winter home for the famous Black Necked Cranes who migrate here from Tibet during the winter months. At Gangtey, you can visit the Gangtey Monastery and the Black Necked Crane center.
After breakfast we will retrace back towards Dochula Pass and Simtokha to drive towards Paro. Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Visit the National Museum which houses and impressive collection of fine arts, paintings, bronzes, textiles, jewellery and handicrafts sections as well as galleries of stamps for which the Country is very popular.
Also visit the Rinpung Dzong, the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels, built in 1645 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It is an imposing square fortress, representative of typical Dzong architecture, with a central tower and courtyards housing the administrative (Dzongkhag) and has a community of about 200 monks.
A hike down the moderate slope to the cantilever bridge, one of the finest specimens in Bhutan with its shingle roof and two guard-houses at each end.
Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast drive 20 minutes to the end of the valley to Drukgyel Dzong from where one can see the towering peak of Jomolhari (7,316m, 24,003 ft). This mountain, also revered as a powerful goddess, forms the border with Tibet and provides magnificent background to the ruined Drukgyel Dzong and village.
Drive to Rumthangka and have the glorious view of Taktsang. The hike is optional.
Taktsang Monastery, clinging on the steep rock, is one of the holiest temple in Bhutan.
It is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew on the Tigress back and meditated here. The trek to the temple through the pine tree and sweet aroma of the air is indeed a very special and memorable event. The return hike will take about 05-06 hours. Rest of the time free for souvenir shopping in the small town of Paro.
Overnight at the hotel.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to onwards destination.
