The Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, often known to the outside world as the last Shangri-La is a hidden paradise full of wonders that you can discover only upon visiting in person.
This tour let&39s you explore the sights and adventures. As you travel the path of Bhutan, you will experience the multitude of flora and fauna, exquisite botanical gardens, and unique art and architecture. You will also visit ancient sites of legend, monasteries, fortresses, monuments, museums and hallowed ney, or sacred places.
This itinerary is designed for spiritual experiences and to glimpse some of the historical places, monuments and museums with short duration travel from one valley to the other.
It covers the mystical Tagtshang, Tiger Nest Neys (which is one of the most sacred places and the legend has it that during 7th century, the great Buddhist Tantrik Master, Guru Rinpche (The precious Jewel) came here by his miraculous power, flying on the back of flaming tigress in form of Guru Dorje Droloe from Khenpajong (eastern Bhutan) on the way from Tibet, to advocate the true beliefs of Buddhism in the Mon-Yul (place of darkness). Therefore, he meditated almost three months and blessed numerous of Neys (holy sites), subdued and converted the evil deities as protectors of Buddhism and the whole region was turned into a place of great religiousity.
Today people consider the Paro Tagtshang as one of very hallowed and auspicious place to worship and pilgrim. Some of the blessed Neys (holy sites) accessible can be hiked to reach.
The amazing landscape and humble people all make the tour a worthwhile sojourn to the Land of Precious Jewel.
You arrive in Kolkata early this morning. and our friendly representative takes you to the hotel. There is time to relax at the hotel and enjoy a leisurely morning. Later, embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. During your explorations you’ll stop at the “Mother House,” where Mother Theresa set up her Missionaries of Charity in 1950. It was here that she worked for nearly half a century caring for the ill and the destitute of Kolkata. Mother Theresa died at the Mother House in 1997 and was laid to rest in a tomb on the premises. Then we’ll explore more of the city, including the Victoria Memorial, the General Post Office, the Governor's House, and the riverfront area. Your evening is at leisure to spend as you wish.
After breakfast, you fly from Kolkata to Paro. In clear weather, the flight to Bhutan provides a wonderful view of Himalayan scenery. Flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu, it is a fascinating journey, culminating in an exciting descent past forested hills into the kingdom. Our Bhutanese Representative / Guide will meet you on arrival at Paro airport. Then we’ll take an interesting drive of about 2.5 hours’ duration to Thimphu (7,600 feet), the modern capital town of Bhutan, and a stop at the Confluence (confluence of?). Throughout our drive, we will have the opportunity to see, firsthand, the road building program currently underway. We’ll have lunch at our hotel in Thimphu. (Please note: Due to Druk Air’s summer schedule, if you are traveling in the months of August through October, you will drive directly to Thimphu without stops, and lunch will be served on the plane.) Before dinner you’ll have a briefing with your Trip Leader on the upcoming adventure. This evening dinner will be in the hotel.
Exquisitely beautiful and brimming with traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, and culture, this tiny capital of Bhutan is nothing less than Shangri-La. As we spend the day exploring, notice the touches of modernity, each one introduced thoughtfully and gradually to protect the environment. This morning’s tour is sure to provide insight into Bhutan’s unique culture. We begin with a visit to the National Library, which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts as well as the world’s largest book, followed by a stop at the Arts and Crafts School, also known as “Zorig Chusum,” the traditional school of the 13 arts and crafts. Next, the TextileMuseum offers us rare glimpses into Bhutan’s finest textiles through demonstrations of production techniques such as weaving, dyeing, and spinning. We then enjoy a visit to a factory that produces hand-made paper before lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we’ll visit the Handicrafts Emporium to see the exquisite artistry of traditional crafts and textiles. Then we’ll drive to the Memorial Chorten. Built in 1974 in memory of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the “Father of Modern Bhutan,” this multi-storied monument displays numerous paintings and statues that provide a rare insight into Buddhist philosophy. We will also visit the Takin Reserve, where we will see the national animal of Bhutan—an odd beast that confounds the experts, who have managed to relate it only to sheep. A Bhutanese myth suggests that the takin is a cow-goat hybrid, but its strong resemblance to the North American moose is difficult to ignore. We’ll continue up for a bird's-eye view of Thimphu and take a brief hike beyond to enjoy a stunning view of the valley. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, we'll depart for Punakha. We arrive at the hotel in time to enjoy lunch. Then, we drive over the stunning 10,000-feet Dochula Pass, one of Bhutan's most enchanting views. Weather permitting, we can see the craggy peaks of Bhutan's northern Himalayan border. After a short stop at the pass we continue to Punakha. The fertile valley of Punakha is drained by the Phochu and Mochu rivers and blessed with a temperate climate. Before Thimphu was made the capital of Bhutan, Punakha held the title as the winter capital because of its more temperate climate. Today it is the winter seat of the Je- Khenpo (the Chief Abbot) and the Central Monk Body. Later in the afternoon we’ll visit the Punakha Dzong or (Palace of Great Happiness), built at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This majestic dzong served as both the religious and the administrative center of Bhutan in the past. It measures some 600 by 240 feet and has a six-story, gold-domed tower. Inside are courtyards and religious statuary that hint at the depth of history and spiritual tradition embodied here. Your guide will illuminate your understanding of this intricate culture that is exotic to us, though long established here. After dinner at the hotel, our evening is free.
After breakfast, we start the day with a nature drive of the surrounding valleys and learn more about the abundant regional flora and fauna en route. Then we head for Wangdue Phodrang, a nearly 400-year-old town that is home to a dzong located on a ridge with a commanding view of the valleys below. As we enjoy a guided tour here, we’ll be fully immersed in Bhutan’s spectacular Himalayan world, where the works of a long-isolated culture exhibit a dignity and spirituality to match the loftiness of their natural surroundings. You’ll visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which was founded by the Shabdrung in 1638. The dzong is strategically located on a promontory overlooking the meeting point of the Sunkosh and Tangmachu rivers. The district of Wangdue Phodrang is also famous for its bamboo products and slate and stone carvings. After lunch at our hotel, you’ll hike to Chhimi Lhakhang Monastery, a 30-40 minute gradual hike. Situated on a hillock below the village of Metshina, the temple was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley (also known as the Divine Madman) and is believed to enable conception to childless women who visit it and receive a blessing. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers. We’ll also visit a local farmhouse and spend time with its occupants, enjoying the warmth of their hospitality.
After breakfast, we drive to Paro via Thimpu, stopping at Dochula Pass for another opportunity to view the spectacular scenery. After a late lunch at our hotel, we visit the Paro Dzong: "Fortress on a Heap of Jewels." Considered by many to be the most impressive dzong in Bhutan, it's a fine climax to our explorations of these magnificent structures. Gleaming white above the surrounding valleys, this dzong was built in 1646 to defend the valley against repeated invasion from Tibet. Later this afternoon we enter Paro by crossing a traditional bridge. We then have the rest of the afternoon to explore the town at leisure. We have dinner together at our hotel in Paro this evening.
In the morning, we’ll hike (approximately 90 minutes) to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) Monastery viewpoint. Perched seemingly impossibly on a cliff 3,000 feet above the valley floor, Taktsang is a place of pilgrimage for locals—and for visitors like us, a hike to the viewpoint opposite the monastery is thrilling and mystical. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress from Tibet, and meditated there for three months—thus bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. The main building of the temple was destroyed by fire in April 1998 but has now been restored to its original splendor and glory. It is possible to take the ride up by horseback—but only for the brave! Today, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we explore sacred Kyichu Lhakhang. The temple was reportedly built in 659 by King Sontsen Gampo of Tibet. According to legend, it pins the left foot of an ogress so large that she covers Bhutan and most of eastern Tibet. Time and weather permitting we continue on to the NationalMuseum, housed in an ancient watchtower. Here, we’ll view a fine collection of ancient thangka paintings, textiles, weapons and other historical artifacts. Tonight you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at your hotel.
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you transfer to the airport and board a flight to Delhi via Kathmandu.
Hotel Details
Day
City
Hotels
01 / 03
Kolkata
Park Hotel
03 / 05
Thimpu
Hotel Migmar
05 / 07
Punakha
Hotel Punatsangchu
07 / 09
Paro
Tashi Namgyel Resort
Destination
Delhi it is the capital of The Democratic Republic of India and boasts to be one of the oldest and largest cities in the world. Resting on the foundations of eight cities from the ancient times is now is a modern metropolis where you encounter antiquity at every bend. With a history spanning over 5000 years that saw several dynasties, invasions, migrations, destruction, construction and the Partition, Delhi is a cultural conundrum. The best way to relish New Delhi is not to try to unravel its idiosyncrasies but enjoy the cultural ensemble it offers.
Paro This beautiful valley which is known for its rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends is the home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the country’s only airport and the National Museum. Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the country, producing a bulk of the famous red rice from its terraced fields. There are a number of places to visit in Paro. The Drukgyal Dzong with a beautiful village nestling at its foot was built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders led by the Mongolian warlord, Gushri Khan. The Dzong was destroyed by fire in 1951, but its glory remains to this day. On a clear day, you can see the spectacular view of the Mt. Jhomolhar, one of the tallest mountains in Bhutan. Rinpung Dzong, ‘fortress of the heap of jewels’ is the administrative and religious centre of Paro district. The Dzong was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. It is the venue of the annual Paro Tsechu, held once a year in spring. Ta Dzong, ‘watch tower’ placed on a ridge immediately above the Rinpung Dzong is the Ta Dzong, built in 1951 as the watch tower. Unlike other Dzongs, which are mostly rectangular in shape, Ta Dzong is round. Since, 1967, the Dzong was reestablished as the National Museum and holds marvelous collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. Dumtse Lhakhang, is to the west of the road, to the north of the main Paro town centre is Dumtse Lhakhang, a Chorten like temple that is closed to the tourists. This unusual building was supposed to have built in 1433 by the iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo of Tibet. The Monastery has 3 floors representing hell, earth and heaven and the paintings inside are said to be the best in Bhutan. Kyichu Lhakhang, is a short distance south of the road leading to Drukgyal is Kyichu Lhakhang. This monastery is one of the oldest in Bhutan and revered as one of the sacred monasteries in Bhutan. This monastery is said to have been built in 659 by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. The original building burned once and was rebuilt with a large statue of Sakyamuni as the central figure. A large statue of Chenrizig with 11 heads and 1000 hands were added at that time. A new temple was constructed in 1968 by the Queen mother Ashi Kesang. In the new temple is a 5m high Guru Rinpoche and another of Tara. There is also a statue of the iron bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo, and another of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, a revered Nyingma Buddhist master who passed away in 1992. Taktsang Monastey is the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the floor of the Paro valley. The name means ‘tiger’s nest’; it was named because Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress. He then meditated in a cave here for three months. The site has long been recognized as a holy place and was visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now visited by pilgrim from all over Bhutan. Milarepa is said to have meditated here and Thangtong Gyalpo revealed a treasure text at Taktsang. The main Lhakhang was built in 1684 around Guru Rinpoche’s meditation cave by the Penlop of Paro, Desi Tenzin Rabye. There are several other buildings in the complex. The Temple of Phorbu contains a phurba, the three-bladed ritual dagger used to stab demons. Above the main complex is Ugyen Tshemo Lhakhang and higher still is another goemba named ZangtoPelri after Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly abode. Kila Goemba, this is a serene home of Buddhist nuns who have dedicated their life for spiritual fulfillment and leading undisturbed life of religious studies, prayer and meditation. The goemba is nestled in a craggy patch on the mountain side below the Chele la pass and perched precariously along the rock face. From Chele la pass, the goemba is about an hour’s walk amidst magnificent wooded area.
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and is the biggest and largest town both in terms of physical size and population. It has an estimated population of 60,000 and is the most populated district in the country. There are many places of interest in and around Thimphu. Most of the sights could be reached on foot, which is a good way to absorb the culture and perceive the Bhutanese way of life. Perhaps, Thimphu is the only capital city in the world that does not have a single traffic light. In fact, the whole of the country doesn’t have a traffic light. Well-known sights for visitors in Thimphu include Museums, Monasteries, Dzongs, a Zoo, Archery range, Handicrafts shops, the weekend market, the National Library, the School of Arts and the Crafts and the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Museums are interesting objects for the tourist to visit. It affords insights into the Bhutanese way of life, its diverse culture and tradition. In Thimphu, the most interesting museums are the Textile Museum and the Folk Heritage Museum. At the Textile museum you will come across beautiful display of garments worn by Bhutanese men from the 1600s till the present time. The Folk Heritage Museum provides an insight into traditional Bhutanese home and the daily life of rural folks. Tashichodzong, meaning the ‘fortress of glorious religion’ was first built in 1641, but it was rebuilt by the third king in 1965. It houses the main secretariat, the central monk body and the throne room. It is open to the visitors during the annual Thimphu Tshechu and when the monk body moves to Punakha in winter. Semtokha Dzong is the oldest Dzong in Bhutan. It was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1627. The Dzong is located on a lofty ridge 5 miles from Thimphu town. It now houses the Institute of Language and Cultural Studies. The weekend market in Thimphu is another centre of attraction for tourist. The place provides an exciting opportunity for the villagers to mingle with their urban cousins. It’s a place where people from the neighboring villages come to sell their farm and dairy products. Therefore, you can find a variety of Bhutanese vegetables, fruits, dairy products and even religious items & artifacts and also handicraft products. The National Library, established in 1967, has the country’s oldest historic and religious records. Built in the traditional style of a Bhutanese temple, each floor of the library building has an auspicious altar and statues of different Buddha’s. On the first floor you’ll find over 4000 volumes of traditional books, printed or written on a long strips of handmade paper, containing all the teachings of the Nyingmapa and Drukpa Kagyue sect of Mahayana Buddhism. On this floor you’ll also find a huge collection of Buddhist books in English (one of the most extensive collections in the world). Latest addition to the Library includes the World’s biggest book: BHUTAN: A visual odyssey across the Last Himalayan Kingdom. Memorial Chorten, This large Tibetan style Chorten was built in 1974 to honour the memory of the third king, His late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. There are a number of religious paintings and complex Tantric statues inside reflecting both peaceful and wrathful aspects of Buddhist deities. It is also one of the most visible religious structures in Thimphu, and for many people it is the focus of their daily worship. Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, this is a private chapel, built in the 1990s by Dasho Aku Trongmi, a musician. The temple is located south of the weekend market. It is one of Bhutan’s tallest Lhakhang and houses many large statues, including a 4m high image of Guru Rinpoche. Dechen Phodrang, this is the site of original Trashichodzong. It is now the state monastic school, and it is not uncommon to see a procession of monks often traveling between here and the Trashichodzong. The 12th century paintings in the goemba’s Guru Lhakhang are being restored. The upper floor features a large statue of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The central figure in the downstairs chapel is the Buddha Sakyamuni. Pangri Zampa Temple, is the north of Thimphu city and Dechencholing, pangri Zampa two imposes white buildings in a grove of giant cypress tress. It is believed that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal lived here after he arrived from Tibet in 1616 because this temple appeared in the vision that directed him from Tibet to Bhutan. Tango Goemba, is approximately 12 km away from Thimphu, this monastery was founded by Lama Gyalwa Lhanampa in the 12th century. The present building was built in the 15th century by the ‘divine madman’, Lama Drukpa Kuenley (ask your guide if you are not familiar with this character). In 1616 Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited Tango and meditated in a cave near the goemba. His meditation is believed to have helped ensure the defeat of an invading Tibetan army. The picturesque 3 storey tower and several surrounding buildings were built in the 18th century by the 8th Desi Tenzin Rabgye. Chari Goemba, this Monastery is located on the face of a gentle ridge to the left of Tango goemba. A gradual walk of 1½ hours leads to the Goemba. The Monastery’s full name is Chari Dorji Dhen. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this goemba in 1620 and established the first monk body here. A Silver Chorten inside the goemba holds the ashes of the Zhabdrung’s father. Phajoding Goemba, It is a 5 km uphill walk from the old motithang hotel in upper Thimphu (3700m). This monastery was built by Sacha Rinchen in the 15th Century. You can continue further to the Thugjedra and Jimilangtsho lakes. Hongtsho Goemba, this goemba is located on a hill above the road at Hongtsho (2800m). It has some monks and meditation cells. This goemba was first found by Lama Ngawang Chogyal in the 15th century; he was the cousin of Lam Drukpa Kuenley (divine madman). High on the ridge across the valley to the south is Tashigang Goemba, which was built in 1786 by the 12th Je Khenpo. It is an important meditation centre, and there are number of small houses for pilgrims near the goemba. Apart from a number of monks meditating here, there are also several anims (nuns). Inside the Lhakhang, there are statues of several Je Khenpos who meditated here.
Punakha A three hour drive from Thimphu, Punakha is the former capital of Bhutan and the winter residence of the monk body. On the way to Punakha, you’ll driver across the Dochula Pass which affords spectacular view of the Himalayas on a clear day. The main attraction in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, which was originally built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637. The Dzong is located between the two rivers, Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). A devastating flash flood washed away the Dzong in 1994, but was immediately restored. The result of the restoration is amazing. You will be seeing the most magnificent architectural and artistic masterpiece in the Kingdom. Few minutes drive from the Punakha Dzong is the magnificent Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten (stupa) which was built and consecrated in 2000. It contains some of the best Tantric art in Bhutan.
Wangduephodrang is the last town before the long stretch of highway to central Bhutan. It is a small town with few shops, and is more known for its slate and stone carving and bamboo works. The Dzong itself is located on the top of a hill at the confluence of Punakha Chu and Tang Chu rivers. Gangtey Goemba, on the way to Trongsa, towards the east of Wangduephodrang, Gangtey Goemba is one of the oldest Nyingmapa monasteries in western Bhutan which dates back to the 17th Century. A few kilometers past the Goemba, on the valley floor is the Phobjekha valley, which is the winter home of the black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north to pass their winter in Bhutan.
Gallery
The Land of Precious Jewel - Bhutan
Price and Inclusions
PRICE
1. US$ 2615 for one traveler, 2. US$ 2550 each for two travelers, 3. US$ 2430 each for three travelers 4. US$ 1230 each for four and more travelers
Airfare from Kolkata to Bhutan, and Bhutan to Delhi
2 nights in Kolkata at the Hotel,
2 nights in Thimphu at Hotel Migmar or similar,
2 nights in Punakha at hotel Punatsangchu Cottages or similar,
2 nights in Paro at the Tashi Namgyel Resort
20 meals—8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners
Small group activities
Services of Local Guide, who speaks English and the native language
