Discover The Land of Happiness

Day 01: Drive to Phuntsholing – Thimphu

After breakfast, proceed to Thimphu, stopping en-route at KharbandiGompa. This beautiful monastery was built by Royal Grandmother, AshiPhuntshoChoedon in 1967. There is a splendid view of Phuntsholing and the Indian plains from the splendid monastery gardens of tropical plants and flowers. From this point the road climbs steeply up and down mountainous ranges through light mountain jungle displaying lianas and orchids and small townships such as Gedu and Chukha. Lunch is served en route.

After passing through Chukha, the road runs along the bank of the Wang Chu (river) to Chuzom (meaning confluence), where it meets Paro Chu. From here it is only an hour’s drive up the valley to Thimphu. Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 02: Sightseeing - Thimphu

We will take you to explore Thimphu after an early morning breakfast. The Memorial Chorten will be your first stop. It was constructed to honour the memory of the 3rd Drukpa Gyalpo and is located in the heart of Thimphu. Many locals come here to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Mothithang Takin Preserve is your next stop. Next, go to BBS Tower to get a bird’s-eye view of Thimphu City. We’ll go to the National Textile Museum after a few clicks. Learn how to wear Gho and Kira while learning the difference between royal and common attire. After lunch we will take you to the famous Thimphu Dzong. Situated along the banks of Wang Chhu River, Thimphu Dzong also known as Trashichhoe Dzong with its monumental architecture and ancient artefacts has become a place which shouldn’t be missed. Adore the colourful Thankhas and paintings. Next we will proceed to Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park to witness the magnificent statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. Also known as Buddha Dordenma, the Buddha View Point has become the iconic landmark of Thimphu.

If your visit to Thimphu coincides with the weekend, you can walk through the Thimphu Market to see the variety of food of Bhutan, including basket upon basket of fiery chillies, fresh cheese and a variety of fresh greens. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. (This market is open only from Thursday until Sunday). Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu - Dochula Pass - Punakha

Drive over the Dochula pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdoms. In the Dochula 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.

Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. At Lobesa we can enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kenley 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

On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’ as predicted by the great Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). 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 breath-taking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here on 17th December 1907, Bhutan’s first king was crownedDinner and Overnight in Hotel in Punakha.

Day 04: Punakha- Gangtey  

After Breakfast driving up a winding mountain road through oak and rhododendron forests, and over a high pass down into the wide and picturesque Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau.  Exploring the Phobjikha Valley, including a visit to the Phobjikha Sanctuary with an opportunity to view the majestic black necked cranes (Nov-Mar only) and GangteyGompa (Monastery), dating back to the 16th century and the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan. In the afternoon enjoy one of the many walks available traversing the stunning surrounds of this spacious valley. Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Phobjikha.

Day 05:Gangtey – Paro

Early Breakfast drive to Paro. From Gangtey the road gradually descends into the balmy Punakha valley before climbing up over Dochu La Pass. Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Paro.

Day 06:Paro- Chele-La – Haa Valley – Paro

After Breakfast we can drive to Haa Valley. Haa Valley is the smallest, the least populated and the less visited places of Bhutan and everything about the valley, be it its culture-conscious people or the profusion of flora and fauna in its abundantly verdant environment makes Haa Valley one of the most amazing places of Bhutan. As you travel to Haa Valley from Paro via Chele La Pass or from Thimphu passing through Chuzom, you find such a profusion of interesting tourist places that will make the trip to Haa Valley unforgettable. We will do few sightseeing and drive back to Paro. Evening you can explore at Paro Town. Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Paro.

Day 07: (Taktsang Hike) – Paro

After Breakfast we have to strong enough to hike Paro Taktsang. The Bus will drive till basement where hike will start. The Paro Taktsang, popularly known as the “Tiger’s Nest Monastery” is a monastery perched on the side of a cliff at a height of 900 meters above the Paro valley floor. It is considered the signature spot for tourists visiting Bhutan. Taktsang monastery is a Gem of the Paro Valley. Nestled up in a cliff, it is considered one of the twelve wonders of the world.

Taktsang is a place of pilgrimage which Bhutanese try to visit at least once in a lifetime.

It is said that in the 8th century Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to this place and meditated in a cave for 3 months, hence its name ‘Tiger Nest’.

The site, which has long been recognized as a most sacred place, was visited by ZhabdrungNgawangNamgyel in 1646. The principal Lhakhang 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.

 If you can you all can hike to Paro Taktsang but if not we can go till the cafeteria, which is situated on a rocky outcrop across a ravine from the monastery, takes about five hours’ round trip. Though the climb up through the pine forest is steep, the journey is most worthwhile on account of superb views en route and especially from the cafeteria view point itself. You can satisfy if you complete the hike and make memorable of the day. Dinner and Overnight in Hotel in Paro.

Day 08:Paro – Phuntsholing -(Departure)

After Breakfast we will check – out from Hotel and drive to Phuntsholing. Same distance which we have started our tour before, distance 176 kms/ driving time: 6 hours. We will have lunch on the way to Phuntsholing. After reaching Phuntsholing our Guide and Driver will escort you all through the gate.