The Kingdom of Bhutan
Welcome to the land of mountain legends, nestled high in the Himalayas, where traditions remain unchanged from ancient civilizations! Visit the impressive Trashichho Dzong in Thimpu, Rinpung Dzong overlooking the Paro valley, and hike up to Paro Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest monastery, 900 metres above the Paro valley. It is said that in the 8thcentury Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to this place and meditated in a cave here for 3 months, hence its name, “Tiger’s Nest”.
Pricing
Private tour starting at $3,749* CAD per person, based on double occupancy
5 Days – Paro to Paro
Your package includes
- Transportation by car or minivan
- Return transfers airport / hotel / airport
- Private English speaking local guide
- 4 night accommodation at 4* hotels or similar
- 11 meals: 4 breakfasts at hotels, 3 lunches at local restaurants, 4 dinners at hotels
- Visits as per itinerary with private vehicle
- Visa for Bhutan
Not included
- International airfare and airport taxes
- Gratuities to hotel personnel, guides, drivers
- Optional excursions
- Beverages
Day
Day 1
Location(s)
Paro – Thimpu
Meals
Dinner
Description
Arriving in Bhutan is an unparalleled experience as the flight provides wonderful Himalayan scenery below. On completion of airport formalities, you will be met at the arrival lounge and start the drive through the valley towards Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan. Arrive Thimpu and check in to your hotel. In the evening (if time permits), visit the impressive Trashichho Dzong which houses the Throne Room of the King and various Government Offices. It is also the Summer Residence of the Chief Abbot and the Central Monk Body. If your visit falls on a working weekday, arrive in time to watch the hoisting of the National Flag and the March of the Guards.
Accommodation: Thimphu at Druk Hotel (or similar, 2 nights)
Day 2
Thimpu
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, visit the National Memorial Chorten which was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King and a monument to peace. Visit the Bronze Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha (51.5 m), sitting on top of Kuensel Phodrang hill and offering unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley. Also visit the nearby National Library, which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature. After lunch, visits will include: the National Institute of Traditional Medicine (outside only), Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), and Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery. Towards evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monk body.
Day 3
Thimpu – Paro
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning drive to Paro. En-route you have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores in Thimphu. In the afternoon, drive towards the north end of the valley to visit the National Museum. Then walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic as the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley. In the evening, visit a Traditional farmhouse for an opportunity to interact with a local family and learn something of their lifestyle.
Accommodation: Naksel Resort (or similar, 2 nights)
Day 4
Paro
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast morning hike uphill to the Tiger’s Nest” monastery, spectacularly located on the side of a cliff 900mts above the valley floor. It is said that in the 8thcentury Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to this place and meditated in a cave here for 3 months, hence its name, “Tiger’s Nest”. The principal temple of the present monastic complex dates from 1692. The main structure was severely damaged by fire in 1998, but after many years of painstaking restoration work, the complex has now been fully restored to its former glory. A pilgrimage to Taktsang is the dream of a lifetime for the devout. Along the way, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Day 5
Paro
Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
*Hotel rooms are subject to availability and are confirmed by the supplier at time of booking; they may be replaced by other hotel rooms of similar category at the sole discretion of the supplier.
Interested in the itinerary above? Click on the “START PLANNING” button below and reference “The Kingdom of Bhutan” in the form, or give us a call at 587.997.5969 to book.
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*Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to change and availability.