Discovering the Mystical Kingdom of Bhutan: A Six-Day Journey of Culture, Nature, and Spirituality
Day 01: Arrival in Paro – Journey to Thimphu
- Embark on your journey to Bhutan with one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, offering a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Upon arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by a representative from the Bhutan Travel Bureau, who will assist you with customs formalities and guide you through the enchanting sights of Paro.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum, which houses an impressive collection of religious relics, works of art, and handicrafts, providing a profound insight into Bhutan’s rich historical, cultural, and religious heritage. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong, renowned for its painting of the great saint Milarepa, revered by Bhutanese Buddhists as a master of meditation who achieved enlightenment in a single lifetime. These Dzongs, large monasteries and district administrative centers, were once strategic forts.
In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, following the picturesque Pachu River. The journey, lasting about 1.5 hours, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Settle into your hotel in Thimphu for a restful night, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Day 02: Exploring Thimphu
- Once a rustic village in a broad, fertile river valley, Thimphu is now a bustling capital with a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Your day begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a temple initiated by the Third King as a protection against the negative elements of modernization and a monument to world peace. The Royal Queen Mother later completed it as a memorial stupa for the Third King, who passed away in 1972.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the 12th-century Changangkha Temple and the Drubthob Monastery, which houses the Zilukha Nunnery. Witness the intricate art and architecture at the School for Arts and Crafts, where students learn the 13 traditional Bhutanese arts, and explore the National Library, home to ancient Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century. The Traditional Paper Factory offers a fascinating glimpse into the Bhutanese papermaking process, while the Folk Heritage Museum showcases a replica of a medieval farmhouse, providing a window into Bhutan’s rural life.
If time permits, visit the nursing pen for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, and the majestic Tashichhodzong, ‘the fortress of the glorious religion’. Originally constructed in 1641 and rebuilt in the 1960s without using nails, Tashichhodzong houses some government ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. If your visit coincides with the weekend, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Thimphu Market, where you can sample an array of Bhutanese foods, including fiery chilies, cheese, and a variety of greens. Spend another night at your hotel in Thimphu, reflecting on the day’s rich experiences.
Day 03: Thimphu to Punakha
- Embark on a scenic drive over the Dochu-La pass, perched at 3,100 meters. On clear days, the pass offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The descent into the warm and lush Punakha valley is equally mesmerizing, offering a glimpse into everyday life in this remote Himalayan kingdom. The Dochu-La area is known for its vast rhododendron forests, which bloom in late April and early May, covering the mountains in a riot of vibrant colors.
Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the historic Punakha Dzong, known as the “Palace of Great Happiness”. Built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, this Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers). It serves as the winter headquarters for the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who migrate from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three-story main temple of Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture, featuring four intricately carved entrance pillars adorned with gold and silver.
After lunch, take a leisurely walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kuenley. Known for his unconventional teachings and antics, he is considered a symbol of fertility, and childless couples often visit his temple for blessings. Spend the night in Punakha or Wangduephodrang, soaking in the serene ambiance of the valley.
Day 04: Punakha to Thimphu to Paro
- In the morning, drive to Yabesa village and hike through rice fields to the Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill overlooking the river, this Chorten houses exquisite paintings of the Nyingmapa traditions. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside before exploring the Wangduephodrang Dzong, built in 1639. This strategically located Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers.
Return to Thimphu for a chance to visit handicraft and souvenir stores before proceeding to Paro. En route, visit the Semtokha Dzong, the oldest Dzong in Bhutan, built in 1627. It now houses the Institute for Language and Culture Studies. Upon arrival in Paro, check into your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 05: Discovering Paro
- After breakfast, embark on a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. The trail is broad, and the uphill walk of approximately two hours brings you nearly a kilometer above the Paro valley floor. For those unable to hike, horses can be arranged to take you to the viewing point. The sight of the Taktsang Monastery, perched on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor, is truly awe-inspiring. This Monastery is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche and his consort meditated in a cave here for three months in the 8th century, bringing the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan.
After descending, stop for refreshments at a nearby teahouse before returning to Paro for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the almost fully reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong, originally built to commemorate Shabdrung’s victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. On clear days, the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari provides a stunning backdrop. Explore other sights in the Paro valley before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 06: Departure from Paro
- Conclude your immersive Bhutanese journey with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before driving to the airport for your onward flight. As you depart, carry with you the memories of Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Tashi Delek!
