Itinerary
You will have a dramatic view of the Valley below when you approach to Paro International Airport, leaving you totally bewildered with the landing. After going through Immigration counter you will be meeting your guide and driver who will be your friend, guidance or family member to take care of you during your stay in Bhutan.
One the way to Thimphu the first stop on your journey from Paro should be at the magnificent 15th century Tachogang or Tamchoe Lhakhang, the hereditary place for worship for Bhutan’s Iron Bridge Builder, Thangthong Gyalpo. This Tibetan saint, who is also known as Chazampa, is believed to have originated the use of heavy iron chains in the construction of suspension bridges. He built 108 bridges throughout Bhutan, and the red soil around Tamchoe is said to contain low-grade iron that once supplied raw materials for the iron bridge work.
The iron bridge that he built across the river nearby the temple was washed away by flood in 1969, however the holder of the two suspension bridges which currently lead to the temple are held by original iron chains crafted by the Saint. Stop here for a coffee & Snacks and a look around before continuing your journey towards Capital Thimphu. Later you can choose to visit Memorial Chorten, or perhaps spend your time browsing the handicraft or take a walk to down town. Overnight in Thimphu
Today you will get learn about the country’s culture, tradition, people, lifestyle and lots more by visiting National Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, National Library, Traditional Medicine hospital. Or you can take morning leisure walk up to the National Radio Tower, follow the trail that goes along the tower fence before you passes a chorten( Stupa)along the mountain ridge until reaching Wangditse. Along the way there are great views of Trashi Chhoe Dzong and parliament house. The trail levels out while crossing an open ridge with a field of fluttering prayer flags and a private temple where monks often go for meditation. Or perhaps visit the Takin Preservation Center to see the national animal of Bhutan “Takin” and other animals.
Wangditse Goemba was founded in 1750 by the attendants of Bhutan’s 8th desi, Yeshey Rabgye. It was renovated in 2002 after it suffered serious damage in a windstorm in 1995. The Goemba houses the statues of the guardian deities Yeshey Gonpo (Mahakala), Palden Lhamo (Mahakali) and Tsheringma (the Goddess of Longevity). Overnight in Thimphu
Today drive will be about 1hour on road, again you will pass by the confluence bridge which connects the capital city and nearest border to India, upon entering the Paro Town take an opportunity for a quick stroll down Paro’s main street and few oldest temples in the valley like the Dungtse Lhakhang is one of the most poignant and important places to visit in Paro because of its spiritual and historical significance. It is a monument dedicated to Buddhism and visitors can learn a lot about the scriptures and tenets of Buddhism when they visit. The temple was built in 1421 as per the great prophecy and is said to have been established to ward off evil spirits.
The three storeys of the temple represent heaven, earth and hell. It is also decorated with some of the most valuable paintings in all of Bhutan. Another unique feature about the temple is that it is built in Chorten style, which is not very common in traditional Bhutanese architecture. Overnight in Paro
The day starts with a hike up to view one of Bhutan’s most important and sacred monuments, the Taktshang Goemba, more commonly referred to as “The Tiger’s Nest”. The four- five hour trek offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff at 900mtrs above the valley floor. Later in the afternoon if time permits or your energy allows do visit the National Museum, housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower). Here, you will further discover an intriguing collection of artifacts. A walk downhill lies the dominating Paro Dzong, finest example of Bhutanese historic architecture. From the Dzong, you will cross Nyamey Zampa, a traditional cantilever bridge, and then take a walk to beautiful Kaja Throm, meet, greet ad mingle with local people and later drive to get beautiful view of International Airport, Paro Dzong, Ta Dzong and Zorig Dzong from its bird-eye view point.
Or perhaps to escape the busy life you could venture for a hike in a peaceful forest to experience Zorig walk with beautiful valley view as you walk this peaceful trail getting connected to nature. Overnight in Paro
Morning transfer to Paro International Airport for your International departure – We suggest to leave for the airport 2hrs prior to travel time.
Your pilgrimage circumambulation & Adventure ends here, Tashi Delek & Phuensumtshog!
Note: Above program is just a guideline for the travels across the Valley and the overall program is subject to travel conditions, and can be amended to cater your particular interests and desired experiences along the way with guidance from your guide.