An introduction to Bhutan with a short, flexible and relatively gentle tour providing a general impression of the land, the people and the history.
It starts from Paro valley home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples, where stories of Guru Rimpoche and Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal, Bhutan’s most celebrated historical personalities, will become increasingly familiar as we visit several fortress-monasteries that stand powerful symbols of the nation’s history, moving onwards to the unique capital city of Thimphu and crosses over to ancient capital of Bhutan, Punakha where on clear day will reveal folds of hills rising toward distant snow-capped Himalayan peaks and to the glacial valleys of Phobjikha where Black-necked cranes roost in winter months.
AM drive to Thimphu and visit Buddha statue, Memorial Chorten and Changangkha temple. After lunch, visit textile museum and free time visit handicraft shops. In the evening after office hours, visit Tashichhodzong. (day time visits allowed only during weekends and Gov. holidays). Distance – 55 kms/1 hr. drive. Alt. 2300m
AM visit Ta Dzong watch tower converted into a museum, followed by visit to Trongsa dzong. Then, drive to Rukhubji valley for lunch at Tushita Café. PM drive to Punakha valley with visit to Gantey monastery enroute. Distance: 145kms/ 5-6 hrs. drive. Alt. 1350m.
AM visit Punakha Dzong and Khamsum Yuele Namgyal Chorten. PM drive to Paro with visit to Chimi lhakhang (temple for fertility). Distance – 125kms/4.5 hrs. drive. Alt. 2200m.