a week in the land of happiness

Arrival in Paro Valley (2280m) and then transfer to Thimphu                                                                                                                                                        Distance from Paro-Thimphu: 52 km / 1 hr. Drive

• Sightseeing options in Thimphu:
  • National Memorial Chorten – Stupa dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan, father of modern Bhutan.
  • Giant Buddha Dordenma Statue at Kuenselphodrang that offers panoramic views of the capital city.
  • Trashichhodzong – the Fortress of the Glorious Religion that houses important offices such as His Majesty’s Secretariat, Government offices and the Central Monastic Body.

   Please Note: Program for the first day will be customized based on your flight schedule

• Sightseeing options in Thimphu:
  • Zorig Chusum – a state-run institution that teaches the 13 traditional Arts & Crafts of Bhutan.
  • On the weekends the Centenary Farmers’ Market is where farmers come to sell their farm produce and vegetables.
  • Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory where you will see the traditional practice of handmade papermaking.
  • Bhutan Postal Museum - an intimate museum where you can buy Bhutan’s unique range of stamps and also print a legal stamp with your picture.
  • Takin preserve – A nature preserve that exhibits Bhutan’s national animal, the unusual and elusive Takin (Bordocas Taxicolor).

Transfer from Thimphu to Punakha (1300m)                                                                                                                                                                                     Distance from Thimphu-Punakha: 77 km/Approx. 2.5 hr. Drive

• Enroute visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and Lhakhang at Dochula pass (approx. 3000 meters) – weather permitting, enjoy panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range with several mountains above 7,000 meters, including the highest unclimbed peak in the world – Mt. Gangkar Phunsum at 7,570 meters.
• Take a short walk (about 30 minutes one way) through Yuwokha village and paddy fields to Chhimi Lhakhang – temple dedicated to the 14^th century Buddhist saint Drukpa Kuenley – a revered site for childless couples.
• Visit the Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss, Punakha Dzong– an important historical 17^th century fortress located at the ancient capital of Bhutan.
• Walk across the Punakha suspension bridge – one of the longest foot bridges in the country.

Transfer from Punakha to Paro Valley                                                                                                                                                                                              Distance from Punakha-Paro: 120 km / Approx. 3.5 hr. Drive

• Paro Sightseeing options:
  • Ta Dzong – ancient watch tower housing the National Museum of Bhutan (exhibits are currently housed temporarily in a separate structure as the main tower is under repair).
  • Rinpung Dzong – the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels built in the mid 1600’s by the founder of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
  • Kyichu Lhakhang – the earliest Buddhist temple in Bhutan, built in the 7^th century .

• A morning hike ascends to Tiger’s Nest – one of Bhutan’s most revered ancient sites. Experience astonishing views from the monastery perched on a cliff 900 metres above the valley floor
• Option to stroll around Paro town in the evening

Go on a day trip to Haa and return to Paro in the evening                                                                                                                                                               Distance from  Paro-Haa: 63 km/Approx. 2 hr. Drive

• Stop by Chelela Pass (3988 m), the highest road point in Bhutan.  Dotted with colorful Buddhist prayer flags, the pass offers stunning views of Mount Jumolhari and other mountains.
• In the afternoon explore the picturesque Haa valley.
• Depart from Paro airport the next morning.