Bhutan, A Himalayan Heritage Experience [03 Nights/04 Days]

The flight to Paro International Airport is a breathtaking journey with spectacular views of Mt Everest, Mt Kanchenjunga, and other renowned Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Mt Jomolhari and Mt Jichu Drake in Bhutan. Upon arrival, our tour guide will warmly welcome you. The day's sightseeing begins with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, followed by a tour of Paro Rinpung Dzong. Enjoy a delightful lunch in Paro Town. Afterward, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred Buddhist temple built in 659 AD by King Songtsen Gyempo of Tibet. In the evening, embark on a scenic 55km drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Visit the iconic Tashichhodzong, a fortress and the main secretariat building built in 1642. This massive structure houses government ministries, the King's office, the Throne Room, and the State Monastic Body, along with the living quarters of the Chief Abbot and senior monks. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

Begin your morning in Thimphu with enriching sightseeing that includes a visit to Kuenselphodrang (Bugdha point), where the tallest sitting statue of Dordenma Buddha is located, the Memorial Chorten, a grand stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan and the ancient 12th century Changangkha Monastery. Explore the Takin Zoo, the Nunnery Monastery, and the Institute of Zori Chusum (13 traditional Art & Craft). After this cultural exploration, embark on a picturesque 3-hour drive through the beautiful forests of rhododendron and fields of dwarf bamboo. Witness breathtaking scenery, including green meadows, wildflowers, gushing waterfalls, and ever-changing vegetation. Approximately 45 minutes from Thimphu, you will reach Dochula Pass (3,100m), offering a stunning view of the eastern Himalayan range and the impressive 108 stupas or chortens. Enjoy a panoramic view of the eastern Himalayan peaks, showcasing snow-capped mountains. After the pass, descend into a low-lying subtropical valley, where you'll have lunch at Lamperi. Continue your journey to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan until 1955 and the winter home of the Chief Abbot. Explore the historic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Following the visit to Punakha Dzong, drive to Wangdue and explore the newly constructed Wanduephodrang Dzong. The dzong, built in 1638 by the Zhabdrung, holds historical significance. Also, take a stroll through Wangdue town. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

Embark on an early morning 4-hour drive to Paro, making a stop at Dochula Pass along the way. Upon reaching Paro, engage in a 4-hour round-trip hike to he iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. The ancient path to the monastery is marked by river-powered prayer wheels, leading you to this majestic structure perched some 1000m/3,000ft up on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the valley. Despite being tragically destroyed in a fire in 1998, the monastery has been rebuilt to its former glory. Legend has it that Guru Padma Sambhava, flew on the back of a tigress to defeat demons opposing Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 A.D. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around town and conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport for your departure.