Bhutan Cultural Tour (10 Days)

Flying to Bhutan is one of the most remarkable experiences one can have. Remarkable becuase of the enchanting and rare views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Jhomolhari, Mt. Jichu Drake and Mt. Tsrim Gang towering above the cloud lines. At the Paro Airport, one will be greeted by Bhutan's unpolluted fresh air and smile of the experienced guides who will be taking care of you throughout your stay in Bhutan. Paro is one of the most beautiful valleys in the country with abundant paddy fields and meandering Pachhu River flowing through. It has country's only Mesuem and the Airport. It is also rich in culture and history - from massive Drukgyel Dzong (now in ruin) to the most beautiful Taktshang Monastery (Tiger's Nest, a blessed by glorious Guru Rimpoche in 8th Century) and many others.

Driving from Paro - Thimphu (Capital City) takes around 2 hours for 54km through a mountanious road. Enroute to Thimphu, there are ample sight seeing opportunities. Thimphu is a young city with a modern development history of just around 3 decades. It was primarily an agricultural valley dotted with many Dzongs and Monateries.

A drive to Punakha from Thimphu is said to be very interesting owing to different landscapes rich in flora and fauna. Journey starts from Thimphu Valley and ascends till Dochula pass from where one can witness the Great Bhutanese Himalayan Ranges. Dochula pass is a home to many beautiful stupas from different eras, ancient to modern. Descending to Punakha Valley is most refreshing as one passes through cool and warm broadleaf forest within a short span of time.

A journey from Punakha to Bumthang will be done using the East - West Lateral Highway which has a traffic volume of only about 100 vehicles per day. Asian Development Bank which has funded the rehabilitation of this highway considers the highway as sunken cost as there is very little traffic with almost zero economic return. Yet this highway is seen as a lifeline to the people of eastern Bhutan. Along the highway, there are number of cultural and historical sites such as Wangdue Dzong, Pelela pass, Chendebji, Trongsa and Yotongla pass. The highway passes through some of the most sensitive ecological areas which harbours rare and endemic flora and fauna of Bhutan.

Bumthang is considered as the heartland of Bhutanese Mahayana/ Tantric buddhism. The Bumthang valley is virtually surrounded from all sides by Temples and monasteries where monks and nuns master the buddhist philosophy. It is believed that Buddhism was introduced in Bumthang by Guru Padma Sambhava, the great Tantric Master. Hence it is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Bhutan. Other hand, Swiss aid workers affectionately call Bumthang as second switzerland.

Ura is the valley of Sheperds and Yak Herders. It has the finest examples of clusttered settlements in Bhutan. The people in the valley observe a unique festival which is held sometimes in April. It is the center of attraction for many visitors. Ura is in close proximity to Thrumshingla National Park. Hence, there are possibilities of seeing number of wild animals and unique apline flowers.

Trongsa is centrally located with impressive and large Dzong/fotress overlooking the rapidly flowing Mangdechhu River. It was once the center and seat of Bhutanese political power in ancient time. The lineage of present monarchy rose to the power from this very seat.

Enroute to Wangdue, excursion to the valley of Black-necked Cranes is irresistible. It is here, every winter, the most endangered and rare Black-necked Crane spend their winters escaping the harsh winter of Tibet/China.

Return to Paro. While in Paro, there are possibilities of arranging varities of social and cultural entertainments which includes witnessing Rare Mask Dances and watching traditional sports.

Drive to Paro airport. All necessary assistance will be provided till you depart.