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Classic Thimphu-Paro and Taktsang Ghoempa Tour in Bhutan

The “6 Days Classic Thimphu-Paro and Taktsang Ghoempa Tour in Bhutan” is a perfect itinerary for those who wish to experience the best of Bhutan in a short time. Bhutan, known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a small, mountainous country in South Asia that is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. The tour offers an opportunity to explore Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, and natural wonders.

6 Days
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  • Professional Local Guide
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Paro / Paro

The tour begins in Paro, a beautiful valley town, where you’ll visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Taktsang Ghoempa. This famous landmark is perched on a cliff, 900 meters above the Paro valley, and is a highlight of any trip to Bhutan. You’ll trek through pine forests and across streams to reach this spiritual site, which is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Bhutan.

The tour then takes you to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, where you’ll spend the next two days exploring the city’s cultural and political landmarks. You’ll visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress and monastery that houses the offices of the King of Bhutan and the government. You’ll also visit the Buddha Dordenma, a 169-foot bronze statue of Buddha that overlooks the city.

During the tour, you’ll have an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s unique culture and traditions. You’ll visit local markets, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, and enjoy delicious Bhutanese cuisine, which includes spicy curries, momos, and ema datshi (chili and cheese dish). You’ll also have a chance to witness Bhutanese traditional dances and music, which are an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage.

Overall, the “6 Days Classic Thimphu-Paro and Taktsang Ghoempa Tour” is a perfect itinerary for those who want to experience the best of Bhutan in a short time. The tour offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, providing an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

Overview

Escape to the mystical kingdom of Bhutan and immerse yourself in its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and fascinating history with the “6 Days Classic Thimphu-Paro and Taktsang Ghoempa Tour”. This tour is designed to provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, as you explore some of the most iconic landmarks of Bhutan.

Begin your journey in Paro, where you will visit the legendary Taktsang Ghoempa, a sacred site that is steeped in mythology and history. Trek through lush forests and scenic trails to reach this stunning monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. The next few days will be spent exploring the capital city of Thimphu, where you will witness the daily life and cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people.

Explore the Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to Bhutan’s third king, and visit the majestic Tashichho Dzong, an ancient fortress that now houses the King’s throne room and government offices. Experience the local way of life with visits to traditional markets and enjoy the delicious flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, a blend of spices, chilies, and cheese that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The Travel agency Himalayan 360 believes that travel is a transformative experience that enriches our lives and expands our horizons. In addition to the “6 Days Classic Thimphu-Paro and Taktsang Ghoempa Tour”, we offer a range of other packages that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you want to explore the highlands of Bhutan, embark on a cultural journey, or indulge in a wellness retreat, we have something new for everyone. Join us on a journey of discovery and let us show you the magic of Bhutan.

Highlights

  • Visiting the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu, and exploring its unique culture, religion, and way of life.
  • Witnessing the stunning architecture and historical significance of Tashichhoe Dzong, a religious fortress and center of government and religion.
  • Discovering the traditional handicrafts and local arts at the Craft Bazaar in Thimphu. Visiting the Takin Preserve and seeing the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, which is an endangered species found only in Bhutan.
  • Taking a leisurely walk through Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and enjoying the breathtaking view of the Thimphu Valley and distant mountains.
  • Exploring the National Memorial Chorten, a memorial stupa constructed in honor of the third king of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
  • Embarking on a challenging yet rewarding one-day hike to Taktsang Ghoempa, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan, perched on a sheer vertical cliff.
  • Visiting a farmhouse in Paro Valley and experiencing the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle, including trying a Bhutanese hot stone bath.
  • Experiencing the natural beauty of Bhutan, including lush green valleys, serene rivers, and snow-capped mountains.

Outline Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Paro

Day 02: Paro - Thimphu; Thimphu tours

Day 03: Thimphu - Punakha; Wangdue and Punakha Sightseeing

Day 04: Punakha - Thimphu

Day 05: Thimpu - Paro; One Day Hike to Taktsang Ghoempa (The Tiger's Nest Monastery)

Day 06: Departure

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive Paro

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Highest Altitude: 2,200 m

Your Bhutanese Cultural tour begins with your arrival at Paro airport via the Drukair flight. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your friendly tour guide who will take you to your hotel in downtown Paro.

After checking in and freshening up, it’s time to start exploring the city! You will begin your tour by visiting the Farm Houses. These houses offer a glimpse into Bhutan’s primitive and characteristic way of living. Strike up a conversation with the locals and enjoy a well-prepared Bhutanese meal served in a traditional Bhutanese way.

Next, you will visit the Kyichu Temple, one of the 108 temples built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo. It is believed to have been built on a demoness’s left foot to suppress her and to protect the land.

Afterward, you will visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress built in 1645 to defend against the Tibet invaders. The Dzong now serves as an administrative center and school for monks. You can also explore the traditional Cantilever Bridge, the oldest Bhutan Bridge located just below the Dzong.

Finally, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before taking a stroll around Paro town or visiting Bhutanese handicraft stores. You will spend the night at your hotel in Paro, ready for a new day of tour tomorrow!

Day 02: Paro - Thimphu; Thimphu tours

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Trek Distance: 54 km
Trek Duration: 1 hour drive
Highest Altitude: 2,334 m

Today you will travel from Paro to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, with a stop at Chunzom, the confluence of the Pachu and Wangchu Rivers. These two rivers are significant to Bhutan’s civilization and flow through Paro and Thimphu valley, respectively. You will then visit Tachog Lhakhang, a 14th-century temple located on the base of the mountain across the Pachu on Paro-Thimphu highway. You will need to cross the Pa Chu River on iron chains to reach the temple, which houses unique and precious statues.

In Thimphu, you will visit several sites, starting with the Bhutan Postal Museum, which showcases the evolution of Bhutan’s communication and postal system. You can even get postage stamps with your own photos printed on them before sending postcards to your loved ones. Next, you will visit the National Textile Museum, which houses a collection of ancient colored textiles, exhibiting the traditional art of weaving. You can witness the exquisite exhibits being woven by locals using intricate tools.

You will then visit the Traditional Arts and Crafts Painting School, where students receive a six-year course on 13 different traditional arts and crafts. The Folk Heritage Museum will provide insight into the primitive living philosophy well preserved by modern Bhutanese and architectural style back in the 19th century. After lunch, you will drive to the base camp of Tango Monastery, located north of Thimphu city. A hike through dense oak and pine trees with red rhododendron flowers in full bloom will take you to the monastery, which is home to highly revered Buddhist monks.

Tango Monastery is renowned for being the home of the Drukpa Kagyupa school of Buddhism, brought to Bhutan by these monks. You can enjoy the spectacular view from the monastery and the peace and serenity that surrounds it. After visiting the monastery, you will return to Thimphu and stay overnight at a hotel.

Day 03: Thimphu - Punakha; Wangdue and Punakha Sightseeing

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Trek Distance: 71 km
Trek Duration: 2.5 hrs
Highest Altitude: 2,334 m

After breakfast, you will start your journey to Punakha. The drive will take you to Dochula Pass (3,140 m), where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Bhutan Himalaya Range and the colorful clustered flowers below. You will stop at the 108 chortens built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck for the safety and well-being of His Majesty, the king of Bhutan.

Next, visit Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck as a tribute to His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth king of Bhutan. This monastery is built in memory of his heroic deed of leading the Bhutan army to fight against the Indian militants who once occupied the land of Bhutan. In Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, you can also find amazing murals depicting big events regarding the former kings in Bhutan.

Afterward, continue your drive to Punakha, a place regarded as one of the most beautiful and significant regions in Bhutan culture. It had once been the capital of Bhutan from 1637 to 1955, during which the 1st National Assembly was held there. Stop for lunch at Metsina village and then visit the Devine Madman’s Monastery – Chhimi Lhakhang, which has always been regarded as the fertility shrine by locals for a long time. You can receive an efficacious fertility blessing there.

Later, visit the Punakha Dzong on the island of Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River) and appreciate the highest state of wood crafts.

In the upper Punakha valley, take an hour hike to the beautiful Bhutan characteristic Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Lhakhang (Temple), which was built by Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck (The Queen Mother of Bhutan) for peace and stability in the hilltop. You may also feel excited by the breathtaking views from there.

Stay overnight at the hotel in Punakha.

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Accomodations: Hotel

Day 05: Thimphu - Paro; One Day Hike to Taktsang Ghoempa (The Tiger’s Nest Monastery)

Itinerary Details
Itinerary Fact Details
Highest Altitude: 3,750 m

After breakfast, you will drive for about an hour to reach Paro. Then, you will embark on a one-day hike to Taktsang Ghoempa, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which is situated at an altitude of 3,750 meters.

The hike to the viewpoint will take around 1.5 hours, during which you can enjoy the stunning views of the monastery clinging to the side of a sheer vertical cliff. After a short refreshment break, you will continue to ascend higher toward the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which will take around 1 hour. You will get a closer look at this miraculous monastery and take in the amazing scenery underneath.

The principal Lhakhang (monastery) of the present monastic complex dates back to 1692, and it was severely damaged by fire in 1998 but has since been fully restored to its former glory.

After your hike, you will visit a farmhouse in the Paro valley and experience the lifestyle of a farmer in Bhutan. You will also have the opportunity to try traditional Bhutanese hot stone bathing. Finally, you will have dinner in Paro and spend the night at your hotel.

Day 06: Departure

Thank you for choosing Himalayan 360 as your travel agency for your Bhutan tour. On the last day of your trip, our tour guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. We hope you had a wonderful time exploring the beautiful and peaceful country of Bhutan.

If you would like to extend your journey in the Himalayan region, we would be happy to help you plan a trip to Nepal or Tibet from Bhutan. As a professional travel agency with years of experience in the region, we can offer you a wide range of services, including customized itineraries, transportation, accommodations, and local guides.

Please let us know if you are interested in exploring more of the Himalayas and we will be more than happy to assist you in planning your next adventure. Thank you for traveling with us and we hope to see you again soon.

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COST

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

  • Accommodation in minimum 3-star hotels throughout the trip (4 & 5-star hotels are available for an additional premium payment)
  • All meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per the itinerary
  • Airport transfers and private transport for sightseeing in Bhutan, with an experienced driver
  • An English-speaking and licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay
  • Entry fees and road permits for all destinations specified in the itinerary
  • Government fees, royalties, and taxes associated with your Bhutan tour
  • Bottled mineral water throughout the journey to keep you hydrated and refreshed
  • Bhutan Visa fee (which can be arranged by your tour operator)
  • International flights to and from Bhutan
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry, and other similar expenses
  • Travel insurance for your Bhutan trip (which is mandatory and can be arranged by your tour operator)
  • Emergency evacuation expenses in case of unforeseen events
  • Tips and gratuities for your tour guide, driver, and other service staff
  • Any additional costs arising from unforeseen events or circumstances beyond the control of your tour operator
  • Any extra activities or experiences not specified in the itinerary, such as cultural shows, kayaking, or other adventure sports.

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