7D West Bhutan Cultural Tour
On this short cultural tour, we catch a glimpse of this beautiful Himalayan Kingdom still holding onto her traditions and customs.
Guarded by gigantic mountains and covered with thick primeval forests, Bhutan will enchant you with her natural beauty and the spiritual generosity of her people will astound you. As you visit the country's impressive dzongs (fortress-monasteries that are thriving centres of worship and culture) and meet the people, you'll see how the past remains an integral part of the very vibrant present.
During the flight to Paro, one will experience breathtaking views of Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Chomolhari and Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, we will be met by our tour representative who will escort us to the hotel.
Overnight in Paro.
The morning's sightseeing begins with a visit to the Drugyal Dzong (a ruined fortress - 16km away from Paro town ). Although in ruins, this Dzong is of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. The peak of Chomolhari "Abode of the Goddess Chomo" (7329m) can be seen on a clear day. On the way back our guests will visit a typical Bhutanese farm house. Lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon we visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong). This was actually the Watch Tower of the Paro Rinchen Pong Dzong. It was converted into the National Museum in 1968. It is located on the top of a hill above the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro valley and the river.
We drive or walk down to Paro Rinchen Pong Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro valley and is approached by a gently sloping flagstone road and a beautiful covered wooden bridge and guard houses. Today, the Dzong is the Administrative seat of the district of Paro and it also contains a state monastic community of about 200 monks. The central tower (Utse) of the Dzong, is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan with its superb woodwork. The Dzong was built in 1645 AD
.In the afternoon we drive to Thimphu (the capital of Bhutan). The 2-hour drive snakes along the Paro and Thimphu rivers offering gorgeous scenic views at every turn.
Overnight in Thimphu.
After breakfast we visit the Memorial Chorten (a huge stupa) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who ruled the Kingdom from 1952-1972.
We also visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved, the Painting School where traditional art is still kept alive through instructions in the art of painting Thankas (sacred Buddhist scrolls) and the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts are displayed and may be purchased.
After lunch we drive to Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan. This dzong built in 1629 AD also houses the largest monastic schools in the country.
Next we visit Tashichho Dzong - the main Secretariat Building. This massive structure houses part of the Ministries, the Office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot.
We visit Pangri Zampa Monastery which is situated just beyond Dechencholing (5km from Thimphu ). This Lhakhang was the residence of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel when he arrived in Bhutan in 1616 AD. The Monastery was built during the first quarter of the 16th century by Ngawang Chogyel, the great-great- grandfather of the Shabdrung and the 14th hierarchy of the Drukpas.
In the evening, dinner with cultural entertainment. Overnight in Thimphu.
After an early breakfast, we drive to Punakha and Wangdi (77 km, 3-hour drive). On the way we stop at the Dochula Pass (3050m) for a hot cup of tea or coffee. On a clear morning, spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges can be enjoyed here.
After lunch,we visit the Punakha Dzong which houses the district administration offices. It is also the winter residence of the State Monastic Body and its Chief Abbot. Punakha was the former capital of Bhutan. The Dzong (or fortress built in 1637 AD) lies between two rivers known as Pochu and Mochu which means "Male River and Female River."
Next we visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong located 16km from Punakha. Wangdiphodrang Dzong and its small town is perched on a hill between two rivers. This is another District Administration Office housed in a fortress. The Dzong was built in 1638 AD.
Overnight in Punakha or Wangdi.
After an early breakfast, we drive to Chuzomsa and on to Khotokha. At Khotokha, we visit Drajanchu monastery which is one of the most sacred and important Lhakhang of Tongdey Phajo's lineage. There are about six other important Lhakhang including several sacred and holy pilgrimage spots of Guru Rimpoche and Drukpa Kunley. There is a Drupchu (spring water) believed to be a gift from the Khandoma (angel). The waters are supposed to have healing powers. Khotokha is one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan and the view of the surrounding mountains and landscape is breathtaking. Picnic lunch at Khotokha and return to Paro.
If the day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, we will visit the Thimphu weekend vegetable market before we drive on to Paro. Overnight in Paro.
After an early breakfast, we embark on a short trek to Taktsang or Tiger's Nest Monastery. The monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800m and overlooks the Paro Valley and river. It is believed during the second half of the 8th century Guru Padma Sambhava known as the second Buddha in Bhutan, meditated at the spot where the monastery is situated having alighted there on the back of a flying tigress.
After lunch, we have a free afternoon to explore the quaint and charming Paro town or go souvenir hunting, etc. Overnight in Paro.
Depart Bhutan with fond memories of this magical Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon. |
