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Delhi - Paro - Thimphu - Punakha - Paro
10 Nights / 11 Days
This itinerary is customizable according to your need.
Arrive Delhi. Meet and assist on arrival and transfer to hotel. (Hotel check-in 1400 hrs ). Overnight
Following breakfast at hotel,
proceed for sightseeing tour of Old Delhi including a rickshaw ride (pedi cab) in Chandni Chowk [Red Fort is closed on Mondays]. Old Delhi – Situated in a strategic position on the west bank of the Yamuna River, between the Himalayas and the Aravalli Hills, Delhi is the gateway to the rich alluvial soils of the Ganges plain and has, according to Indian folklore, been occupied since 2500 BC. The original city, Indraprastha was the first of nine.
Shahjahanabad or Old Delhi, the 7 th city, was built when the Mughal Emperor moved his capital back to Delhi from Agra in 1638. Planned out in blocks with wide roads, residential areas and bazaars, Chandi Chowk, now thought to be Asia’s busiest street, was the main artery. Literally translated as ‘Silver Street’ this bustling market area of Old Delhi is good for hunting down new and antique gold and silver jewellery from craftsmen whose forefathers served the emperor. At the 1911 Delhi Durbar, King George V announced that the capital of India was to move from Calcutta to Delhi.
Inaugurated in 1931, the ambitious work of British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, New Delhi is an audacious statement of Imperial British control over India. Today the difference between bustling Old Delhi and the calmer, tree lined avenues of New Delhi is striking. Later on visit Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Overnight
Breakfast at hotel and proceed for the city tour of New Delhi – Was planned and built by the British in the 1920’s and is characterized by Sir Edwin Lutyens’ monumental architecture.
Driving through the city, with its wide tree lined avenues discover India Gate and the Diplomatic Enclave, the Central Secretariat and the President’s House.
Visit Humayun’s Tomb, aptly called the predecessor of the Taj Mahal because of its ornate Mughal style of architecture, later perfected in the Taj Mahal. Finally, see the 12 th century Qutab Minar, considered one of the most perfect towers in the world, measuring 72m high. Continue to Connaught Place, New Delhi’s main shopping area and central hub.
Rest of the day at leisure Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi Evening visit Akshardham Temple and enjoy water show. Overnight
The flight to Paro stands as one of the most breathtaking experiences in the entire Himalayan region.
Flying over the Himalayas, this journey treats you to captivating vistas and an exhilarating descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. As you step off the aircraft, Bhutan's first welcome gift to you is the refreshingly cool and pristine mountain air.
Once you've completed immigration procedures and collected your luggage, our representative will extend a warm welcome. Following this heartfelt greeting, you will embark on a road journey to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital town.
The road takes you through the picturesque Paro valley, eventually leading to the convergence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers at a place called Chuzom.
As you approach Chuzom, you will notice Tachog Lhakhang on your left. This temple, constructed by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer who introduced suspension bridge construction to Bhutan and Tibet (some of which are still in use today), is an intriguing sight. The present bridge to Tachog Lhakhang was meticulously restored in 2005, following traditional design with iron chains.
Crossing this iron bridge is a delightful experience, and you can enjoy a roundtrip walk lasting approximately 50 minutes. Upon reaching Thimphu, check-in to your hotel. Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, serves as the nexus of government, religion, and commerce. It's a city that beautifully blends modern development with ancient traditions, making it perhaps the world's only capital without a traffic light. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu, situated at an altitude of 2,320 meters.
In the morning, embark on a brief drive north of the town to reach Buddha Dordenma, situated atop a hill within the serene Kuenselphodrang Nature Park.
This remarkable statue brings to life an ancient prophecy originating from the 8th century A.D., which was unearthed by Terton Pema Lingpa, a discoverer of religious treasures. It is believed that this statue emits an aura of tranquillity and joy, extending its influence to the entire world.
Crafted from bronze and adorned with a layer of golden gilding, this colossal Shakyamuni statue stands at a towering height of 51.5 meters, solidifying its position as one of Bhutan's largest statues. Within the Buddha Dordenma statue itself, an astonishing 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, also cast in bronze and gilded, have been meticulously arranged. While at Buddha Point, you will have the option to engage in meditation at a specially designated area.
Then visit the National Memorial Chorten, a striking white structure crowned with a golden spire. Situated near the heart of Thimphu, it ranks among the city's one of the most iconic landmarks.
This site offers an ideal opportunity to engage with locals who gather in large numbers to circumambulate the chorten, spin the large red prayer wheels, and offer prayers at a small shrine within the gates. The paintings and statues inside the monument offer profound insights into Buddhist philosophy.
Continue onto Textile Museum, a cultural gem that beautifully encapsulates Bhutan's rich heritage in the realm of textiles. Under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Ashi Sangay Choden, this museum has elevated Bhutanese textiles to an art form of profound significance. Its exhibits are a captivating journey through six major themes, including warp and weft pattern weaves, the role of textiles in religion, outstanding achievements in textile arts, textiles sourced from indigenous fibers, and a glimpse into the Royal collection.
Through intricate weavings and vibrant designs, the Textile Museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of Bhutan's cultural tapestry and the intricate craftsmanship that has been a hallmark of the nation for centuries. Post lunch, drive to the Sangaygang viewpoint, perched at an altitude of 2,685 meters, offering a splendid vista of Thimphu valley from the hillside just below the telecommunications tower.
From this point, embark on an approximately two-hour round trip hike along the Sangayang-Wangditse loop. The trail meanders through a landscape adorned with ubiquitous prayer flags, surrounded by the picturesque Thimphu valley. After an initial short and steep ascent, veer onto a side footpath to the right, where the trail becomes gentler and more manageable. Along the way, you will encounter an apple orchard and a handful of farmhouses perched above the trail. As you continue, the path gently descends through enchanting oak, blue pine, and rhododendron forests, leading you to the historic Wangditse monastery. Established in 1750 by the attendants of Bhutan's eighth Desi (secular rulers in Bhutan during the dual system of Government), Druk Rabgye, this monastery underwent renovation in 2001. Inside its inner chapel, you will find statues of guardian deities such as Yeshey Goenpo (Mahakala), Palden Lhamo (Mahakali), and Tsheringma (the goddess of longevity).
Throughout your journey, you will be treated to splendid vistas to the north, including a glimpse of the Samteling Palace, the residence of the fourth King. Your rewarding hike concludes as you return to the Sangaygang viewpoint, completing this memorable loop walk.
After this wonderful hiking excursion drive to Pangri Zampa, 16th century one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan located just north of Thimphu. Here is a monastic school where Buddhist student monks learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy. An interaction with student monks here at the monastery can be a gratifying experience.
Wrap up your day of sightseeing with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, often referred to as the fortress of the glorious religion.
This remarkable edifice serves as the heart of both government and religion in Bhutan, housing the monarch's throne room and serving as the seat of the Je Khenpo, or Chief Abbot. Originally constructed in 1641 by Bhutan's political and religious unifier, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it underwent a meticulous reconstruction in the 1960s, employing traditional Bhutanese construction methods that eschewed the use of nails or architectural plans. Before returning the hotel, discover the Centenary Farmers Market, affectionately referred to as the Weekend Market.
This vibrant and bustling marketplace stands as the largest of its kind, drawing farmers from various regions of the country to showcase and sell their agricultural goods. Boasting a diverse array of products, including locally crafted handicrafts, and set against a picturesque and colorful backdrop, the Farmer's Market has earned a special place in the hearts of many as a favoured destination.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu. (Altitude 2320m)
Following breakfast,
commence your journey to Punakha across Dochu-la pass, situated at an elevation of 3,088 meters (approximately 10,130 feet).
Pause briefly at this point to soak in the magnificent scenery and appreciate the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags that adorn this high-altitude location. If the skies are clear, you will have the opportunity to behold a panoramic view of the following peaks from left to right: Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongphugang (7,060m), which resembles a table mountain and presides over the remote region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the loftiest peak in Bhutan, soaring to an impressive 7,570 meters.
At Dochula Pass, a collection of 108 chortens or stupas, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, was commissioned by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. These chortens are structured in three tiers: the first and lowest level contains forty-five chortens, the second tier has thirty-six, and the top tier includes twenty-seven, encircling the central main chorten. Continue your journey onward to Punakha.
Once the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, Punakha still serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the chief abbot. Nestled in a temperate climate and blessed with natural drainage from the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the fertile Punakha valley yields abundant crops and fruits.
Later in the afternoon a brief excursion to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the temple of fertility. Perched on a hillock in the heart of the valley, this temple is renowned for the belief that couples struggling with infertility are blessed with children shortly after visiting and offering prayers here.
The trail leads through rice fields to the quaint settlement of Pana, which means field.
Strolling through the village near the temple provides you with rare insights into the daily lives and lifestyles of the villagers. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha, situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters.
Morning after breakfast
visit After a satisfying lunch, explore the Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, constructed at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
This grand dzong served as both a religious and administrative centre in Bhutan's history.
It spans approximately 600 by 240 feet and features a six-story gold-domed tower. Within its walls, you will encounter courtyards and religious sculptures that offer glimpses into the depth of history and spiritual traditions embedded here.
Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into this intricate culture, which may be exotic to outsiders but has thrived here for generations. Then walk across Punakha Suspension Bridge, gracefully suspended over the gushing waters of the Mo Chhu river, is a marvel of engineering and a thrilling experience for visitors.
Spanning approximately 160 meters, it ranks among Bhutan's longest suspension bridges and provides a unique perspective of the picturesque Punakha Valley.
With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the river's roar below, crossing this bridge offers an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Post lunch, visit Wangduephodrang Dzong, a historical fortress with its roots tracing back to 1638 when it was founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Perched atop a high ridge nestled between the Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, this dzong offers a magnificent vantage point overlooking the valley below. Wangdue Dzong holds a significant place in Bhutan's history due to its strategic location.
It allowed the Penlop (Governor) of Wangduephodrang to safeguard the crucial routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana, and Thimphu, solidifying his position as the third most influential ruler after the Governors of Paro and Trongsa.
After being damaged by fire in 2012, the dzong has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur and splendour, a process completed in 2022. Following your dzong visit, explore the captivating Rinchengang village, which sits atop a hill opposite the Wangduephodrang Dzong, just above the West-East national highway.
The village's unique charm lies in its traditional mud houses, clustered together with an ancient allure that distinguishes it from other Bhutanese villages.
Rinchengang boasts a close-knit community, and according to local legends, its early settlers were recruited by the revered saint Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the early 17th century from Cooch Bihar in India, initially as skilled construction laborers for the Wangdue Dzong's construction. Their exceptional craftsmanship in stone masonry contributed significantly to the dzong's completion, earning them a permanent settlement in this village.
Rinchengang is considered one of Bhutan's oldest villages, and it still preserves its time-honoured customs and traditions. Surrounded by terraced rice fields, the village is a delightful 15-minute walk from the highway, offering a splendid view of Wangduephodang Dzong and the meandering Punatsang Chhu river.
Overnight at the hotel in Punakha. (Altitude 1,300m)
After enjoying breakfast,
embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque highway to reach Paro.
Upon arrival in Paro, settle into your hotel accommodation.
Paro, a stunning valley, is a repository of rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and a multitude of myths and
legends. This valley is home to some of Bhutan's oldest temples, monasteries, the National Museum, and the country's
sole international airport.
To the north, Mount Chomolhari (7,314 meters) stands majestically in its pristine white grandeur, while its glacial waters cascade through deep gorges, forming the Pa Chhu, or Paro River.
Paro is renowned
for being one of the Kingdom's most fertile valleys, with terraced fields producing the locally famous red rice.
Following a delicious lunch, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally constructed as a Watchtower and now housing the
National Museum. The museum's extensive collection boasts antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weaponry and armor,
household artifacts, and a diverse array of natural and historical treasures.
Your visit to Ta Dzong is immediately followed by a short walk along the trail to explore Rinpung Dzong, also known
as Paro Dzong, which translates to ‘fortress of the heap of jewels’.
This dzong boasts a long and captivating history.
Adorning the wooden galleries that line the inner courtyard are exquisite wall paintings depicting Buddhist tales,
including scenes like the four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, episodes from the life of Milarepa,
Mount Sumeru, and cosmic Mandala.
Conclude your day with a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel in Paro, situated at an altitude of 2,280 meters.
Following breakfast,
embark on a captivating journey to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest, which involves approximately a 5-hour round-trip hike. This monastery holds a position of utmost prominence among Bhutan's monastic institutions, clinging to the side of a cliff at an elevation of 900 meters above the Paro valley floor.
Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived at this sacred site on the back of a tigress and engaged in meditation, hence earning it the name Tiger's Nest.
Recognized as one of the most sanctified places in Bhutan, it was visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now a pilgrimage site frequented by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. In the late afternoon, venture to the far end of the valley to explore the newly restored Drukgyel Dzong.
Constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 to commemorate a significant military victory over Tibetan invaders, the name 'victorious Druk' reflects its historical and strategic importance. The grandeur of Drukgyel Dzong was even featured in a 1914 issue of National Geographic magazine, despite being ravaged by fire in 1951.
On clear days, the village below the Dzong offers a commanding view of Mount Chomolhari (7,314m).
Evening explore Paro city centre and local market. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
Morning after breakfast, excursion to Chelela pass.
Located at an elevation of 3,988 meters, Chelela is considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. About an hour’s drive along a thickly forested road, this Pass is a botanical paradise, providing stunning views of the sacred mountain Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
It is also marked by hundreds of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. From Chelela, embark on a fascinating excursion to Kila Gompa, a nunnery perched on a steep cliff face at 3500m. This staggering site manages to house 7 small temples and about 70 nuns.
From Chelela pass, the Gompa is about an hour walk amidst magnificent, wooded area. Return to Paro valley and after lunch, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple that forms part of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas under the reign of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
The establishment of this temple marked the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. Later part of the day to explore Paro local market. Overnight at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for the flight to your onward destination.
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