Overview
Within this short period of time, one can cover two western districts of Bhutan, Paro and Thimphu (capital). This tour is best suitable for those who are deprived of time but needed the glimpse of what Bhutan stands for and its beauty. Scores of historical sites are located within these two districts.
This cultural tour through the mystical Western valleys of Bhutan is an ideal introduction to the Dragon Kingdom. Experience Bhutanese hospitality, admire the ever-changing landscapes, and immerse yourself in Bhutan�s rich buddhist culture. Highlights include Ta Dzong Museum, Rimpong Dzong with its wooden cantilevered bridge and the infamous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger�s Nest) in the beautiful Paro Valley,
Highlights
- Tour Duration: 4 Days/ 3 Nights
- Distance Covered: Phutsoling, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue,Paro
- Meal Plan: APAI
Itinerary
On arrival at Bhutan�s frontier town, Phuentsholing, received by our representative and check into the hotel.
The town of Phuentsholing is the gateway for travelers entering Bhutan by road. A thriving commercial centre on the northern edge (West Bengal) of the Indian plains, Phuenthsoling is situated directly at the Himalayan foothills. This town is fascinating mixture of Indian and Bhutanese, a perfect example of mingling of people and their culture.
Evening as time permits visit Zangtho Pelri: Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche.
Later explore Phuentsholing town and market.
Overnight at the hotel in Phuentsholing. (Altitude 300m)
After breakfast, embark on an interesting journey to Thimphu en route visiting Kharbandi Gompa, the beautiful monastery founded in 1967 by Royal Grand mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. Here you can see the statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rimpoche along with paintings portraying scenes from the life of Lord Buddha. The monastery garden provides great views of the Phuentsholing town and surrounding plains of West Bengal.
Phuentsholing Thimphu highway was built in 1961further stimulating economic activities between India & Bhutan. Drive further stopping en route at Gedu University for photos. Later after a short tea break nearby Chukha, resume your journey through a small town of Chimakothi and afterwards stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Paro & Thimphu rivers.
On arrival, in Thimphu check-into the hotel. The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of Government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Situated in western Bhutan, with the population of about 1,00,000, it is perhaps still the world�s only capital city without a traffic light.
Evening an exploratory walk around Thimphu city centre.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)
After breakfast, drive to visit Memorial Chorten. Also known as Thimphu Chorten, this stupa is located at the heart of the Thimphu city and was built in 1974 to honour the third King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (1928-1972) popularly known as Father of modern Bhutan.
Afterwards visit to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). It holds one of the largest Buddha�s statue in the country of 169 feet (51.5m), made of bronze and gilded in gold. Visitors can also get a good overview of the Thimphu valley from this point.
Then visit Changangkha Lhakhang. This temple is located above central Thimphu, built in 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo on a ridge overlooking the town. Local parents traditionally come here to get auspicious names for their newborns or blessing from the protector deity �Tamdrin�.
Later drive to upper Motithang in Thimphu to visit Takin Preserve. The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drukpa Kuenley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.
Post lunch, sightseeing in Thimphu valley including visit to the following : the National Library, housing an extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School) where students undergo a 6-year training course in Bhutan�s 13 traditional arts and crafts, Textile Museum, which provides deep insight into Bhutan�s one of the most distinct art form, Folk Heritage Museum, dedicated to connect people with the rich Bhutanese Folk heritage and rural history through exhibits, demonstrations, educational programs and documentation of Bhutanese rural life.
Conclude the day�s sightseeing with visit of Trashichhoedzong, or �the fortress of the glorious religion�. This is one of the most impressive buildings situated along the right flank of the Thimphu river built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel who unified Bhutan and was later reconstructed in 1962 by the third King His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This impressive fortress/monastery houses Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King and various government offices.
Evening at leisure in Thimphu city centre. Also explore the Local Crafts Bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan's fine traditional arts.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2,320m)
After breakfast, continue onwards journey either to Bagdogra Airport / New Jalpaiguri Railway Station or further tour to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong
Inclusion & Exclusion
Inclusions
- Airport Transfers
- Stay in hotels as indicated in the itinerary
- All three meals, tea and coffee
- Dedicated SUV vehicle with a driver and
- English Speaking Guide throughout the Trip
- Short hikes, Packed lunches and snacks wherever required
- Monumental Fees
- Bhutan Tourism Development Fee
- VISA processing Fee
Exlusions
- International Air fare
- Refreshments and bottled drinks and alcohol
- Tips/gratuities
- Cost arising out of Flight Cancellation/road blockades/ landslides and events beyond our control
- Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost