Majestic Bhutan

A day at Thimpu, our first stop will be the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Here, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautifully painted walls and intricately crafted statues that offer a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy. Followed by Changangkha Temple, one of the oldest temples in the Thimphu valley, and the Drupthob Monastery, a nunnery offering stunning views of the town and Tashi Choe Dzong.

We’ll continue to the Folk Heritage Museum, a replica of a medieval farmhouse, which showcases Bhutan’s rich textile heritage. Witness the old collections and displays of vegetable dyes and materials used for textiles. Then visit the unique Traditional Hospital, Handicrafts Emporium, visit the weekly market,  Memorial Chorten, the National Library, and the School of Traditional Arts.  If you prefer, you can visit the historic Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan, or the huge statue of Buddha Dordenma, which offers a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley.

After breakfast, we will depart for Paro. Once there, we will embark on a cultural tour of the Paro valley by visiting the magnificent Paro Rinpung Dzong, a prime example of Bhutanese architecture. Next, we will visit the National Museum, which was formerly housed in Ta Dzong. The Ta Dzong is a unique circular building, shaped like a conch shell, built on a hilltop to protect the Rinpung Dzong and the Paro valley during times of war. Sadly, an earthquake in 2011 damaged the Ta Dzong, but the contents of the museum were relocated to a nearby building. Here, you can admire a rich collection of Bhutanese artifacts including costumes, religious paintings, weapons, textiles, and a remarkable collection of Bhutanese stamps. 

If we also have the opportunity to see local artisans demonstrating their traditional wood-turning skills and even try our hand at it. In the late afternoon, we will visit a local farmhouse where you can experience traditional Bhutanese village life, relax in a hot stone bath, and learn some Dzongkha. Your host family will also entertain you with the narration of Bhutanese folktales.

Embark on a day hike to the iconic ‘Tiger’s Nest’, the sacred Taktshang monastery that perches on the rock face 900 meters above the valley floor. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated for three months. The site is considered one of Bhutan’s most revered places of worship, attracting pilgrims from not only Bhutan but also neighboring Buddhist nations. We’ll take a break for lunch at the Taktsang cafeteria and enjoy a stunning view of the monastery. On the return journey, we’ll stop by Dumtse Lhakhang, a temple constructed by the renowned iron bridge builder, Thangtong Gyalpo.

Flying from Paro to Kathmandu and witnessing the majestic beauty of the Himalayas will be one of the best moments for you. You’ll be soaring above deep valleys and snow-capped peaks, and seeing the landscape change from Bhutan’s lush green valleys to Nepal’s rugged terrain while experiencing the transition from one country to another and the gradual change of the landscape. And, when you finally land in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by the vibrant city surrounded by the Himalayas.