Paro/ Punakha
Arrive in Paro. On arrival check in at the hotel. Later leave for sightseeing of Paro town and a temple visit. Rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Paro.
After breakfast in the morning, proceed to visit to the National Museum, here an intriguing collection of artefacts provides a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Kingdom. Just a short walk downhill lies the imposing Paro Dzong , a fine example of historic Bhutanese architecture . From the Dzong the rour crosses NyamaiZampa, a traditional cantilever bridge from where you will be driven to the town temple, built in 1525 to view ancient wall paintings. Paro lunch options incude picturesque picnic spots Or perhaps a visit to a traditional farmhouse. After lunch visit the uniquely shaped Dumtse Lhakhang to view the beautifully preseved wall paintings there. Later stroll the main street in the Paro and at leisure.
Overnight in Paro.
(OPTIONAL EXCURSION)
After breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery (approx. 5hrs walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place and visited by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour. On the way back to town stop at DrukgyelDzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, "mountain of goddess'' can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong. Along the way, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, SongtsenGampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. Evening an exploratory walk around Main Street and market area.
Overnight in Paro.
After breakfast, drive to Punakha – the ancient capital of Bhutan. The drive takes you across Dochula Pass (3100 m), which is marked by a large Bhutanese style Choeten (a sacred structure), 108 small chortens and prayer flags. Enjoy spectacular views of the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas before passing down through magnificent pine and rhododendron forests and into Punakha. On arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a local lunch. Rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Punakha.
After breakfast, today take a short day walking to ChimiLhakhang .TheChimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’. A walk through the village near the temple will give you rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers. Later proceed to visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body.
Overnight stay at hotel.
Today after breakfast, you will be taken to a Buddhist temple's intimate shrine room dressed in the traditional attire of Bhutan — a gho for men, a kira for women — for the two-hour ceremony. Monks will chant, accompanied by drums, horns and cymbals, and your relationship will be blessed as a long, happy and prosperous union. The exchange of khadhar (white scarves) is an important Bhutanese act, representing devotion and love. In the evening, our chefs will serve a romantic four-course dinner complete with a bottle of house wine. Guests may enjoy this meal by the firelight in the woods or in the courtyard. You can choose to eat al fresco overlooking the river or in front of the fire in Bukhari restaurant. Inclusions
Overnight in Punakha.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to board your flight to return home with happy memories.
End of tour!
City |
Category |
Hotel Name |
Price |
Paro |
3 & 4 Star
5 Star |
Naksel Boutique Hotel & SPA/ Tashi Namgay Resort/ Bhutan Mandala Resort Or Similar
Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront/ COMO Uma Paro or Similar |
Price On Request |
Punakaha |
3 & 4 Star
5 Star |
The Four Boutique/ Khuru Resort/ Dhensa Boutique Resort Or Similar
COMO Uma Punakha/ River valley Hotel or Similar |
Price On Request |
Inclusions: |
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EXCLUSIONS: |
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SCATTERED CLOUDS
Temp: 25.69°C |
Clouds: 43% |
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Humidity: 74% |
Pressure: 1008hpa |
Sunrise: 03:07 AM |
Sunset: 03:29 PM |