Bhutan Highlights

THINGS TO DO & PLACES TO SEE Visit Kharbandi Gompa. Photo stop at Taktichu Pass Upon arrival in Thimphu, Check-in at the hotel and overnight stay.

Visit Memorial Chorten, dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan, the founder of modern Bhutan. Buddha Dordenma, made in line with increasing the Bhutan happiness index.This sitting statue of Buddha measures 169 feet in height and is filled with1,25,000 shorter Buddha statues. One of the world’s most giant Buddha statues, Simply Bhutan Musume, it is a living museum guiding visitors on a captivatingjourney to discover and immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Bhutan. Itstands as a vibrant hub for those eager to delve into the intricate tapestry of Bhutanese culture, providing a comprehensive experience of its many facets. Takin Sanctuary, witness the baffling and endangered Takin. This large mammal weighing up to 650 kgs is the national animal of wonderf ul Bhutan. In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong, an impressive structure located just on the outskirts of Thimphu. One of Bhutan’s most iconic monuments, the Tashichho Dzong houses His Majesty’s throne room and several government offices. After this retrace back to hotel for overnight stay.

Photo stop at Chuzom and visit Thamchok Lhakhang, a private temple dedicated to the ancient saint Thangthong Gyelpo. He is famous for having built countless iron chain bridges to ease Himalayan travels and pilgrimages In Paro visit, Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower-converted- museum, also known as the National Museum. Visit Paro Dzong, a 17th- century, impressive fortress with a complex of preserved buildings. Also known as Rinpung Dzong, this square fortress is Paro’s administrative centre and houses temples, courtyards, and offices with intricate Bhutanese motif works. We will end the day by visiting Paro town, enjoy local cuisine like steamy momos. Else, visit one of the finest restaurants that serve sophisticated Bhutanese foods, such as Ema Datshi (Bhutan’s national dish). Shop for sou venirs at the Paro Craft Market. Finally, we return to the hotel for a delicious dinner and a peacef ul sleep.

After breakfast we will go for a hike to Taktsang Monastery, more popularly called “The Tiger’s Nest”. This iconic monastery is so-called owing to the myth that the medieval Buddhist saint Padmasambhava visited it, riding a flying tiger. The legend also says that he meditated in a cave that is now the Nest’s lower storey. The monastery houses a wrathf ul emanation of Padmasambhava on top of a tiger. You can reach this sacred place only through an uphill hike as it’s perched on a precipitous rock face. It’s a 5-hour trek through scenic pine forests, with the eluding view of the Nest beckoning you the whole time. After the hike visit a local farm house and have a relaxing hot ston bath. Retrace back to hotel for overnight stay.

We take leave of beautif ul Paro and retrace in the direction of Phuentsholing town. On our leisurely drive by the Paro River after crossing Chuzom and then towards Chukha. After checking in to our hotel at the border town, we have the remaining time at leisure.

After entering the Indian border at Jaigaon, we pass the scenic Bengal Countryside to arrive at Bagdogra Airport. We take the air journey with beautif ul memories of our Bhutan travel.