Discover the Enchanting Kingdom of Bhutan: An Unforgettable Tour Experience
Embark on a journey to Bhutan, the mystical Kingdom in the eastern Himalayas, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. Known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," Bhutan offers a unique travel experience characterized by stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a commitment to Gross National Happiness. A Bhutan tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore this hidden gem, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, ancient monasteries, and vibrant festivals.
Why Visit Bhutan?
Bhutan is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. From its towering Himalayan peaks and lush valleys to its serene monasteries and colorful festivals, Bhutan promises an immersive experience for all types of travelers. The country's strict environmental policies and preservation of cultural heritage ensure that visitors witness a pristine and authentic way of life. Whether you are seeking adventure, tranquility, or spiritual enlightenment, Bhutan has something for everyone.
Key Highlights of a Bhutan Tour
1. Thimphu: The Vibrant Capital
Thimphu, the capital city, offers a blend of traditional Bhutanese culture and modern development. Nestled in a scenic valley, Thimphu is home to numerous cultural landmarks, bustling markets, and beautiful parks.
- Buddha Dordenma Statue: This massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha overlooks the Thimphu Valley and is a symbol of peace and prosperity.
- Tashichho Dzong: An impressive fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and the summer residence of the central monastic body.
- National Memorial Chorten: A prominent stupa where locals gather for daily worship, offering insight into Bhutanese spiritual life.
2. Paro: The Gateway to Bhutan's Cultural Heritage
Paro is rich in cultural and historical treasures, and its picturesque valley is dotted with ancient monasteries, fortresses, and traditional farmhouses.
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest): Perched on a cliffside, this iconic monastery is one of Bhutan's most sacred sites, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hike.
- Paro Rinpung Dzong: A majestic fortress overlooking the Paro River, exemplifying Bhutanese architecture and artistry.
- Kyichu Lhakhang: One of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, believed to be built in the 7th century.
3. Punakha: The Ancient Capital
Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and historical significance.
- Punakha Dzong: Often considered the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, it is an architectural masterpiece set against a backdrop of lush greenery and sparkling rivers.
- Chimi Lhakhang: Also known as the "Temple of Fertility," it is a pilgrimage site for couples seeking blessings for children.
4. Bumthang: The Spiritual Heartland
Bumthang is a region of high valleys, ancient temples, and sacred sites, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan.
- Jambay Lhakhang: One of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century, famous for its annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival.
- Kurjey Lhakhang: A sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock.
5. Phobjikha Valley: A Haven for Wildlife
Phobjikha Valley is a glacial valley known for its pristine beauty and as the winter home of the endangered black-necked cranes.
- Gangtey Monastery: Overlooking the valley, this monastery offers stunning views and insights into Bhutanese monastic life.
- Black-Necked Crane Information Centre: Learn about these graceful birds and the valley's conservation efforts.
Best Time to Visit Bhutan
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and the opportunity to witness vibrant festivals such as Paro Tsechu and Thimphu Tsechu.
How to Reach Bhutan
- By Air: The primary gateway to Bhutan is Paro International Airport, served by Bhutan's national airline, Druk Air, and Bhutan Airlines.
- By Land: Travelers can also enter Bhutan via Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar, which are border towns connected to India.
Conclusion
A Bhutan tour promises an enchanting experience filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual depth. From exploring ancient monasteries and fortresses to hiking through pristine landscapes and participating in colorful festivals, Bhutan offers a journey that is both unique and profoundly enriching. Plan your trip to this Himalayan paradise and discover the magic of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
What is included in the tour
# HOTEL DETAILS : 3STAR PROPERTY ( DELUXE ROOM)
# HOTEL MET0 PEMA/LAKHI HOTEL/CENTRAL HOTEL(PHUENTSHOLING)1 NIGHT
# HOTEL ZHIRIKHA/DHARLHA/DRUK NORYANG(THIMPHU) 2 NIGHTS
# HOTEL CHICKEN DINNER/WHITE DRAGON (PUNAKHA)1NIGHT
# HOTEL PEMCHU BOUTIUQE/SANGEYLING/RATNA VARA ( PARO) 2 NIGHTS
# ACCOMODATION IN DOUBLE SHARING BASIC ROOMS
# MEAL PLAN MAPI( BREAKFAST & DINNER)
# S.D.F. CHARGES
# EXPERIENCE GUIDE
# TRANSPOTATION IN E.V CAB/HIACE BUS/COASTER TOURIST BUS BHUTAN TO BHUTAN
# PICKUP AND DROP TOYOTA INNOVA/SWIFT DZIRE/TEMPO TRAVLER/ BAGHDOGRA TO BAGHDOGRA
What is NOT included in the tour
ANYTHING NOT INCLUDED IN THE INCLUSION
. Thimphu: The Vibrant Capital
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Buddha Dordenma Statue: Witness the grandeur of the massive Shakyamuni Buddha statue, which offers panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. This 169-foot statue is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of peace and prosperity.
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Tashichho Dzong: Explore this impressive fortress and monastery that serves as the seat of Bhutan's government and the summer residence of the central monastic body. Its stunning architecture and serene gardens are a must-visit.
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National Memorial Chorten: Experience the spiritual atmosphere of this prominent stupa, built in memory of the third King of Bhutan. It is a place of daily worship for locals, providing a glimpse into Bhutanese spirituality.
2. Paro: The Gateway to Bhutan's Cultural Heritage
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Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest): Hike to this iconic monastery perched on a cliffside, one of Bhutan's most sacred sites. The trek offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement upon reaching the monastery.
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Paro Rinpung Dzong: Visit this majestic fortress overlooking the Paro River. It is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and serves as a religious and administrative center.
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Kyichu Lhakhang: Explore one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, believed to be built in the 7th century. The temple's serene environment and historical significance make it a key highlight.
3. Punakha: The Ancient Capital
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Punakha Dzong: Often regarded as the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is an architectural masterpiece set against a backdrop of lush greenery and sparkling rivers. It was once the administrative center and the seat of the Bhutanese government.
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Chimi Lhakhang: Visit the "Temple of Fertility," dedicated to the Divine Madman, Lama Drukpa Kunley. This pilgrimage site is especially popular among couples seeking blessings for children.
4. Bumthang: The Spiritual Heartland
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Jambay Lhakhang: Discover one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. It is famous for its annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, which includes religious rituals and traditional dances.
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Kurjey Lhakhang: Visit this sacred site where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock. The temple complex is one of the most revered in Bhutan.
5. Phobjikha Valley: A Haven for Wildlife
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Gangtey Monastery: Overlooking the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, this monastery offers stunning views and insights into Bhutanese monastic life. It is an important religious site in the region.
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Black-Necked Crane Information Centre: Learn about the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate to Phobjikha Valley every winter. The center provides information on the cranes and conservation efforts in the valley.
BHUTAN TOUR PLAN
( 06 Nights and 07 Days )
Day 1 : Welcome to Bhutan from Njp railway station/ Bagdogra - Phuentsholing – 04 Hours (approx.)
Meet & greet on arrival by our representative at Njp railway station/Bagdogra and drive to the Indo – Bhutan Border(Jaigaon-Phuentsholing), on the way to the beautiful scenic Tea garden Estates. On arrival check in to the hotel and evening is free for the local market around Phuentsholing .- Overnight hotel in Phuentsholing.
Day 2 : Phuentsholing to Thimphu drive (6 hrs )
After breakfast complete the immigration formalities and drive to Thimphu –The capital of Bhutan via Gedu, which is located about 9000 ft above the sea and view of Chukha Dam.and stopover for photo session at Wankha Waterfalls on arrival at Thimphu check in hotel and evening free for local market .Overnight hotel stay in Thimphu hotel.
Day 3 : Thimphu Local Sightseeing
The National Memorial Chorten: Built-in the memory of the third Druk Gyalpo (Head of Kingdom) of Bhutan, the National Memorial Chorten is devoted to World Peace. The Chorten is popular amongst the localities for various major Buddhist religious festivals and it is one of the best places to see in Thimphu Bhutan..
Buddha Dordenma Statue - Atop a hill in Thimphu, is a massive, golden Buddha sitting atop a gilded meditation hall. Hidden inside it has 125,000 smaller Buddhas. This means that in Thimphu, there are more Buddha statues than this city’s population(100000) ,It is also known as Budda point.
Changangkha Lhakhang – In Thimphu there are many monasteries and temples that you will get to see and among them. Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the most religious structures . It was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest Lhakhang located in Thimphu .Its also known as the wish fulfilling temple,from here you can see the amazing view of Thimphu city
The Motithang Takin Preserve – For animal lovers, Motithang Takin Preserve is one of the best places to visit in Thimphu. This attractive preserved area was built as a small zoo but later it was converted into an animal preserve center. Takin -The national animal of Bhutan, lives in the Motithang Takin Preserve in Thimphu
The National Library It was established in 1967 and has a famous collection of historic manuscripts ,photos and books .
Painting School – It is also known as Institute for Zorig Chusum where students are taught courses like traditional drawing,painting,carving and to develop skills in arts and crafts.
Bhutan Textile Museum – Bhutan Textile Museum offers an amazing display of Bhutanese dresses and textiles ,It gives a clear picture of Bhutan history in terms of textile and traditional clothing.
The Clock Tower - Clock Tower Square is an example of a great architectural marvel. It is a tower with four clock faces, which makes it different from any other building or structure in Bhutan. One of the most popular places among visitors, people usually visit here in the evening to enjoy the beautiful paintings and carvings. There are many restaurants and souvenir shops near this tower, making it one of the most visited sites in the town.
TashiChho Dzong : It is a monastery which is located next to the bank of the Wang Chhu River, It is also known as Thimphu Dzong. Annual 3 days Tsechu festival is also hosted every year at TashiChho Dzong. It was Built in 1216 A.D. Overnight hotel in Thimpu.
Day 4 : Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing
Dochula Pass: It is located between Thimphu and Punkaha which is around 3100 m high, here you can see a scenic view of the Eastern Himalayan . In Dochula Pass 108 stupas are built and in winters it is fully covered with snow which makes it a very beautiful place.
Punakha Dzong: It is the most beautiful Dzong located in two rivers named Pho Chu (male) and Mo Chu (female) in Punakha, Mo Chu is widely preferred for first-timers, kids and elderly people. Upon visiting the Punakha Dzong, visitors will not only be mesmerised by the Bhutanese architectural marvel but will get an opportunity to explore the sacred history of this ancient place.
Punakha Suspension Bridge - One of the oldest suspension bridges in the world, Punakha Suspension Bridge in Bhutan was believed to be built by the Buddhist Monk, Thangtong Gyalpo.This ancient hanging bridge is draped with prayer flags all along and provides a perfect spot for bird watching and nature photography.This historical bridge is worldwide known for its picturesque appearance. Overnight hotel in Punakha.
Day 5 : Punakha to Paro
Simtokha Dzong : This Dzong, was built in the year 1629 also known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Simtokha Dzong was built in the 17th century and it is one of the oldest Dzong built .An very important and oldest structure..
Paro Airport View: This is one of the most stunning airports in the World and also the country’s first and only international airport. With a breathtaking view, this airport became a must-visit place in Paro.
National Museum of Bhutan: An ancient watchtower that now displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artwork including traditional costumes, armor, weaponry, and handcrafted implements for daily life. The collections represent the rich cultural traditions of the country.
Ta Dzong - Ta Dzong, once upon a time was a watchtower, built to protect Rinpung Dzong in war times ,it was built in 1649 ,In the year 1968 it was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum & night stay in Paro.
Day 6 : Paro Sieghtseen…
Drukgyal Dzong: Drukgyal Dzong was a Buddhist Monastery. It is also translated as the ‘Victorious Fortress’. This is the place where several victories over marauding Tibetan invaders. It is considered the most beautiful and famous archaeological site Bhutan.
Kyichu Lhakhang – It is also known as Kyerchu Buddhist Temple,Kyichu Lhakhang is a pilgrimage place as it is part of 108 temples which was built by the king ,it’s very old and very beautiful and most visited monastery in Paro.
Rinpung Dzong – Rinpung Dzong is also known as Paro Dzong and it was Built in 1644 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal , it is one of the best architecture.Rinpung Dzong has traditional Bhutanese architecture and it is the best tourist attraction point in Paro
Day 7 : Departure Paro to Phuntsholing to Hasimara drop
Cherish your memories After early breakfast, drive to Phuntsholing approx 4 hour journey arrived phuntsholing do immigration formalities and start for next journey to NJP RAILWAY STATION/BAGHDOGRA AIRPORT
