Seven Days Cultural Tour

On a clear weather, the flight into Paro is a befitting introduction to the natural beauty of the country. Magnificent views of the world’s highest peak, give way to lush green Paro valley. On arrival, our representative will receive and escort you to your hotel. After lunch, drive to Drugyel Dzong (a ruined fortress - 16 Kms. 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. On a clear day you can get a view of the Mt. Chomolhari (Alt 7329m). On the way back visit a typical Bhutanese farm house and take a leisurely stroll around the compound and the Paro town.

Visit Ta Dzong (one of the best museums of Asia), Rimpung Dzong (fortress of the “heap of jewels”), and Kichu Lhakhan (one of the oldest temple of Bhutan built in 659 AD by a Tibetan King). After lunch, drive to Thimphu (65km/ 2hours) on the winding road along the river Pachu and Wangchu. In evening take a leisurely stroll around Thimphu town.

Visit the Memorial Chorten, built in1974 in memory of the late King of Bhutan; National Library where ancient texts and manuscripts are preserved; The Indigenious Hospital where traditional medicines are still practiced; Woodcraft and Painting school where traditional art and crafts are still kept alive; Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles are displayed and can be purchased; Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body; Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortress of Bhutan built in 1629 and it houses the largest monastic schools in the country; Drive to Dechencholing, Palace of the Queen Mother.

Morning, drive to Punakha and Wangdue (77km/ 3hours). Stop for a hot cup of tea/coffee on Dochula pass (3150 m) and enjoy the spectacular view of the eastern Himlayan mountain ranges. After lunch, visit Punakha dzong (one of the most beautiful Dzongs of Bhutan) located at the confluence of two rivers, the Phochu & Mochu.

Drive to Wangdue, 13 km from Punakha. Visit Wangduephodran Dzong and Wangdue town located on a hill between two rivers.

Early rise and drive 21 km to Khotokha. Visit Drajanchu Monastery (one of the most sacred Phajo’s lineage). There are about six other important Lhakhangs including several holy pilgrimage spots. The spring water in Khotokha is believed to be a gift from the angels and the water is supposed to have healing powers. Khotokha is has one of the most beautiful valleys of Bhutan and the surrounding mountains and landscape is breathtaking. Picnic lunch at Kotokha and drive to Thimphu.

In evening, walk around and shop in Thimhu town. If the day falls on Saturday or Sunday, visit vegetable market (varieties of things displayed for sale).

Drive early to Paro to take a hike to Taksang, the Tiger’s Nest. This magical monastery is perched on a rocky cliff 800m, above the valley. Legend says that Guru Padmasambhava (one of the greatest saints of Buddhism) flew here on the back of a tigress - hence the name - to meditate. After the completion of his meditation- he built the monaster. The round trip take about 4-5 hours. Picnic lunch at Taksang cafeteria. Evening, free to stroll in Paro town or visit some village homes.

In morning, our representative will bid you farewell at the Airport! Tashi Delek!