Tashi Delek Bhutan

Arrive in Paro, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. You will have some time to rest and acclimatise to the altitude before touring Kyichu Lhagang, one of the most holy Buddhist sites, followed by a visit to the architectural marvel of Paro Rimpung Dzong, which towers over the town.
Overnight: Hotel, Paro

After breakfast we will take a spectacular 4 hour drive to Punakha, the former capital. On the way we will pass through several picturesque villages and cross the Dochula Pass at 3200m. If it is a clear day you will be able to see Mount Gangkhar Punsum (7541m), the highest mountain in this region.

The beautiful Punakha valley is home to the scenic Phochu and Mochu (Male & Female) rivers and has a pleasant warm climate. The local villagers grow rice and fruit such as oranges, mangoes and bananas. When we arrive we will visit Punakha Dzong, which was once home to over 500 monks. It is also the winter home of His Holiness Jhey Khenpo, the Chief Monk of Bhutan, as well as the wedding venue of their Majesties the King and Queen.
Overnight: Resort, Punakha

After breakfast we will take an early morning walk through lush farmland to visit the Chimmi Lhagang monastery, famous as the home of the monk Drukpa Kunley.
After lunch we will visit the Ani Gompa and the Nalanda Institute of Buddhist studies.
Overnight: Hotel, Punakha

After breakfast we will take a scenic 3 hour drive to the picturesque valley of Gangtey. We will have a short rest at our hotel before taking a tour of the gold roofed Gangtey monastery. This beautiful village is also the winter home of the endangered black-necked crane, and is known for it stunning natural beauty and scenic farmlands.
Overnight: Hotel, Gangtey

This morning we will drive to Thimphu, the present day capital. When we arrive you will be able to freshen up at the hotel before we visit the Memorial Chorten, built in honour of 3rd King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. After this we will tour the impressive Tashichho Dzong, which houses the Royal Government of Bhutan as well as a religious centre.
In the evening we will visit the handicraft emporium and take a walk down the main road of this busy capital city.
Overnight: Hotel, Thimphu

Today we will set of on a sightseeing tour of Thimphu and its surrounds. Firstly we will visit the Takin nature enclosure to see the unusual national animal of Bhutan. We will then visit the Dordenma Buddha, a stunning 51m statue that heralds the entrance to the Thimphu valley. In the afternoon we will tour the Heritage Museum, the carpet weaving centre and a traditional paper making workshop.
Overnight: Hotel, Thimphu

Today we will drive to Paro, stopping along the way to visit one of the most impressive sights in Bhutan, the Taktshang Monastery. This spectacular monastery, also known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery’ is perched 900m up a sheer cliff face that overlooks the Paro valley. We will transfer to the base of the Tiger’s Nest walk and hike to cafeteria view point or up to the monastery at the height of 2980m. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche flew here on a tiger’s back to make the first monastery in Bhutan.

After visiting the monastery and enjoying the stunning views we will continue on to Paro. If there is time, visit the Drukgyal Dzong “Victorious Citadel” and the Ta Dzong Museum along the way. In the evening you will have the option to enjoy a hot stone bath in a traditional Bhutanese bath house.
Overnight: Hotel, Paro

After breakfast we will transfer you to Paro airport for your departure.
We hope you enjoyed your time with us in Bhutan and hope to see you again on another Short Escapes journey.