Tour Summary
Punakha Dzong houses Bhutan’s most sacred relic Rangjung Kharsapani “a self-created image of the Bodhisattva of compassion. As per the historical accounts, Tibetan forces invaded the valley to seize the relic but Bhutanese “pazaps” (local militia men) led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel successfully defended the relic and emerged victorious. To commemorate the victory, Zhabdrung introduced the Punakha Drubchen. The Drubchen is celebrated as an annual festival. Visitors from the Gasa and Laya join the locals in Punakha to celebrate the festival.
The highlight of the Drubchen features a reenactment of the 17th century battle scene to honor Zhabdrung and the great men. Subsequently Punakha Tsechu was also introduced to preserve and promote Buddhism.
Detail itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Paro Airport to Thimphu (1 hour) and sightseeing in Thimphu/strong>
Probably the only capital city in the world without streetlights and an airport of its own, this small city is home to some 100,000 local residents including the Royal Family of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Like any other capital city, it is the political and economic center for the country. The city has a 17th century fortress which houses the Office of His Majesty the King and The House of Parliament stands on the eastern bank of the Thimphu River opposite to the fortress.
Thimphu has successfully preserved its culture and tradition despite growing exponentially and rapidly. Any traveler exploring this unique city will have the luxury of modern convenience and witness ancient monument and traditional way of life simultaneously.
Places to visit:
Buddha Dordenma Centenary Farmers Market Zorig Chusum Tashichodzong Memorial Stupa VAST Studio Crafts Bazaar
Day 2: Drive from Thimphu to Dochula (1 hour)/strong>
Lunch at Dochula Cafeteria and Drive to Punakha (1 and half hour) and Cultural Sightseeing at Punakha
Travelling to Punakha is like getting in a time machine and going back to the 17th century. Punakha offers tourists a unique medieval experience. The region still holds many traditional houses built decades ago with people leading a simple farming lifestyle. The valley is especially beautiful during spring and autumn adorned by the produce in the paddy fields. Did you know that Punakha was a former capital of Bhutan? Much of Bhutan’s significant history from fighting against the Tibetan invasion to the institution of first monarch to the signing of the treaty of Punakha with the British Indian Empire which shaped Bhutan’s future significantly were all witnessed in this region.
Places to visit:
Dochula Pass Punakha Dzong Suspension Bridge Chimi Lhakhang – The Fertility Temple
Day 3: Visit to Punakha Drubchen
Punakha Dzong houses Bhutan’s most sacred relic Rangjung Kharsapani “a self-created image of the Bodhisattva of compassion. As per the historical accounts, Tibetan forces invaded the valley to seize the relic but Bhutanese “pazaps” (local militia men) led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel successfully defended the relic and emerged victorious. To commemorate the victory, Zhabdrung introduced the Punakha Drubchen. The Drubchen is celebrated as an annual festival. Visitors from the Gasa and Laya join the locals in Punakha to celebrate the festival.
The highlight of the Drubchen features a reenactment of the 17th century battle scene to honor Zhabdrung and the great men. Subsequently Punakha Tsechu was also introduced to preserve and promote Buddhism.
Places to visit:
Punakha Dzong
Day 4: Early Drive from Punakha to Phobjikha (3 and half hours)
Phobjikha is one of the most idyllic places in Bhutan. The valley is part of an important wildlife reserve; the valley is home to the endangered black necked cranes. These birds migrate south to the valley from Tibet every winter before flying back early spring. Aside from enjoying the tranquility, the valley also has multiple hiking trails leading through the small community in the valley.
Overnight at a Farm Stay
Places to visit:
Phobjikha Valley Gangtey Monastery
Day 5: Drive back to Paro
(6 and half – 7 hours)
A relaxing start to a long day, mid-way through your trip
Overnight at a hotel in Paro
Day 6: Hike to Taktsang
Hike to Taktshang is the perfect way to end your memorable journey through Bhutan. Tiger’s nest monastery is located on a cliff at over 900 meters above Paro valley. It will take 4 hours to reach the monastery from the base where you will be dropped off. The steep trail takes you through lush green diverse forest and prayer flags all the way guiding you. The monastery is credited to a Buddhist master Guru Rinpoche. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to the site of the monastery riding atop a flying tigress and meditated in the cave for many years. The monastery still encloses the particular cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
After completing the hike you will be again picked up from the Base and will be taken to your hotel.
Places to visit:
Tigers Nest
Day 7: Depart From Paro
Take back beautiful memories.
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