Tour Summary
Happy holidays is a cultura based tour which includes an opportunity to explore the medieval fortresses. Take a leisurely walk in and around the ancient structure and examine the traditional architectural designs of the majestic Dzongs. The Dzongs (fortresses) served as the seat of the central Government, housed the central monk community and during the times of war, the Dzongs were used as military barracks. The original mural adorned on the walls of the fortresses dates back to 17th century. The paintings are well preserved and tell a tale of the Buddhist mythology. The trip often culminates with a visit to a shrine graced with meticulously sculpted statues of Buddhist gods.
The tour also includes a once in a life time experience of spending a night at a village homestay. The experience is a gateway to understanding the authentic Bhutanese-lifestyle. Typical villages in Bhutan are secluded and immune from the distractions of modern lives and thus offer a serene experience of a simpler lifestyle. Visitors will get a chance to dine with the local host. The interaction with the host and the family over a hearty authentic Bhutanese Cuisine reveals visitors a glimpse of a true Bhutanese aspirations and values. Unwind the day with a traditional hot stone bath.
Detail itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Paro
The final approach to Paro International Airport requires skillful maneuver and experience to safely glide the plane through the mountainous terrain before aligning the runway. A voice from the cockpit will advise the visitors to look out your window to catch a glimpse of the Mount Everest before making the final descent. The whole landing experience is a like a roller coaster ride on steroid. The assigned tour guide and driver will pick up the visitors from the airport and drive to Thimphu city. It will be an hour drive to Thimphu from Paro Airport.
In the afternoon, visitors will explore Thimphu City and visit some of the most popular attractions.
Places to visit:
Memorial Stupa Textile Museum Folk Heritage Museum Crafts Bazaar Centenary Farmers Market Motithang Takin Preserve Buddha Dordenma
Day 2: Drive to Punakha
Visitors will take an early drive towards the mountain village of Punakha. It will be a two hour drive to Punakha from Thimphu. Half hour into the journey, visitors will arrive at the Dochula Pass. It has an elevation of 3100 meters and offers a panoramic view of the eastern Himalayan range including the highest mountain in Bhutan, Mount Gangkar Puensum. After a brief stop, visitors will continue their drive to Punakha. After lunch visit the popular attractions in Punakha village including the Fertility temple and the Punakha Dzong.
Visitors will spend the night at a farm house in Punakha. The highlight of the night includes an authentic Bhutanese cuisine dinner, traditional hot stone bath and interaction with the local family.
Places to visit:
Dochula Pass Punakha Dzong Suspension Bridge Chimi Lhakhang – The Fertility Temple
Day 3: Drive back to Paro
After breakfast, visitors will drive back to Paro. It will be a 3 hour drive to Paro from Punakha. In the afternoon, visitors will explore cultural attractions in Paro including the National Museum, Paro Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang one of the oldest temple in Bhutan. In the evening, visitors can choose to explore Paro town.
Places to visit:
Dobji Dzong Dumtseg Lhakhang Tachog Lhakhang Drukgyel Dzong Kyichu Lhakhang
Day 4: Day Excursion to Haa Valley
Visitors will drive to Haa district west of Paro valley. Haa valley like Punakha has most of its traditional architecture intact. Majority of the population are farmers. Visit to Haa valley includes visit to the community temples and villages.
One of the highlight of the trip is the stop over at Chelela Pass. Chelela Pass is the highest motor able point in Bhutan 3900 meters and the pass divides the Paro and Haa valley. If the weather permits, visitors can catch an unobstructed view of the Mount Jomolhari.
After the exploration, visitors will drive back to Paro for the night. It will be a two hour drive back to Paro valley from Haa.
Places to visit:
Chelela Pass
Day 5: Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro
The last day of the trip is the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Owing to the monastery’s significant history which dates back to the 7th century, today it is one of the most sacred religious site for the Buddhist pilgrims. The monastery itself is over 3 centuries old. But what has made this iconic destination popular among the tourists could be of its architectural achievement. The monastery is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro valley and the only way to get to the top is a two hour hike from the base.
Visitors will be driven to the base of the monastery early in the morning and will begin the hike. Lunch will be served at popular cafeteria on the way back. It offers an amazing view of the monastery and the valley below.
Places to visit:
Tigers Nest
Day 6: Depart From Paro
Take back beautiful memories.
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