A Cultural & Scenic 6-Day Adventure

In the morning, we’ll start at the Memorial Chorten, a stunning stupa honoring Bhutan’s Third King, followed by Changangkha monastery and the Takin Zoo. Then, a short drive to Sangaygang offers panoramic views of Thimphu Valley. We’ll also visit a Nunnery. After lunch, we’ll explore the weekend market and the Post Office. If time allows, we’ll witness an archery match. In the evening, we’ll visit the iconic Tashichho Dzong, housing Bhutanese governance offices and the King’s Throne Room. Finally, we’ll head to Buddha Point to see the monumental Maitreya statue and enjoy another view of Thimphu valley. Overnight at a hotel.

Embarking on our journey towards Punakha, we traverse to Dochula Pass (3,100m) for breathtaking vistas of the eastern Himalayan ranges, adorned with snow-capped peaks ranging from 6000m to 7554m. Admiring the 108 stupas encircling the pass, we descend gradually through lush vegetation to Punakha and Wangduephodrang valleys. At Wangdue, we explore the remnants of Wangduephodrang Dzong, tragically ravaged by fire in 2012, initially erected in 1638 by Shabdrung. Next, we visit Chimey Lhakhang, a 15th-century monastery linked with Lam Drukpa Kuenley. Following lunch, we proceed to Punakha, greeted by the majestic Dzong, an architectural marvel nestled at the confluence of the Pho and Mo chus rivers. This fortress, erected in 1637, serves as the winter abode for the Chief Abbot and houses Bhutan’s sacred relics. Our itinerary also includes a visit to Khamsumyulley Namgyal chorten before retiring for the night at a hotel..

We began our journey back to Paro, which would take about four hours. After lunch, we will visit Kyichu Monastery, one of Bhu- tan’s oldest, built in 659 A.D. by the Buddhist Tibetan King Songsten Goembo. A short drive from there will take us to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong (”Castle of the Victorious Drukpa”), which was built to commemorate the victory of Bhutanese forces over the Tibetans in the 16th and 17th centuries. You will then be taken to visit a farmhouse, after which you can call it a day.

Embark on a truly unforgettable journey with a visit to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Lair), a masterpiece blending spiritual serenity and architectural magnificence. Nestled atop a 1000m hill, overlooking the valley, this revered shrine in Bhutan holds profound significance. Legend has it that Guru Padma Sambhava, a revered figure in Tantric Buddhism, arrived here riding a tigress to conquer demons hindering Buddhism’s spread. The trek, spanning five hours along an ancient trail, offers a gradual ascent, allowing for reflection and immersion in the surroundings. Numerous Buddhist masters have sought solace in meditation at this sacred site. Following the trek, indulge in a leisurely stroll through Paro town before retiring for the day, cherishing the memories of this remarkable experience.