Clean Air Adventure
Dragon Tour to bhutan
6 days
Journey to the land of Dragon is one week tour where tourists to reconnoiter and experience covering overall best of the mystical Bhutan. To start with this tour you will be transferred to capital city Thimpu and from next day onward visit continue. First day sightseeing of Thimphu valley which includes a visit to the National Library, a treasure trove of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Traditional Institute of Medicine, where centuries old healing arts such as acupuncture and herbal remedies are still practiced; the Painting School, where young monks learn the art of Buddhist thangkha painting; the workshops for mask making and fine metal craft, weaving,ceramics and paper and; the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating testimony of Bhutanese material culture and living traditions. After visiting these popular spots of Thimpu around you will be transfer back to Paro again and there also you will be visiting all the highlighted spots of around until end of the package.
Itinerary Summery
Days:6 days – Night: 5 nights
Outline Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Journey by flight to Kingdom of Bhutan offers remarkable views of the world highest mountains including Mount Everest,additionally, landing in the heart of Himalaya is like nowhere in the world.Evening stroll old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores. One can also venture to try local restaurant for dinner. During our time here,visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress which protected the valley against invaders from north. Visit beautiful 7th century Kichu Lhakhang temple, see many beautiful Buddhist wall paintings and iconography inside Dungtse Lhakhang,built in 1421. Paro Dzong- massive structure of 17th century fortress and National Museum which is very unique and different than any other museums. Overnight in Paro.
Day2: Paro to Haa
After our breakfast you will travel through farmlands and scattered hamlets and gradually climbing to the Chelela pass,, 3822m high, with spectacular glimpse of the Bhutan Himalaya mountain peaks all the way. Descending down into the Haa valley you will be rewarded by stunning scenery as you wind along the side of the mountain into the town of Haa. During your stay here you will visit many monuments includes, visiting Lhalkhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo ( Black temple). The local deity helped in constructing the temple thus giving the name to Haa, meaning‘surprise’. Haa is overlooked by three mountains called ‘ Rig Sum Gonpa’ which signify three Buddha deities, naming Jambayang, Chana Dorji and Chenrizig. In the evening we will explore into the beuatiful Haa town. Overnight in Haa.
Day 3: Haa to Thimphu
After our breakfast you will travel through farmlands and scattered hamlets and gradually climbing to the Chelela pass, 3822m high, with spectacular glimpse of the Bhutan Himalaya Mountain peaks all the way as follow way back to the Thimphu. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel and after lunch you will visit:
Memorial Chorten: This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan’s third King, His Late Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded as Father of modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Takin Preserve, Motithang : The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas.Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories
The Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim): It is dedicated to connect people to the Bhutanese rural past through exhibits, demonstrations, educational programmes and documentation of rural life. The principal exhibit in the museum is a restored three storey traditional rammed mud and timber house, which dates back to themid 19th century. The design and form of house is that of an average house holding the Wang area during that era. The age of structure demonstrates the durability and performance of the building materials. From ground to top floor,household objects, typical domestic tools and equipment that would have been used by a family during that period are put on display. The museum is also developing some of the native trees and plants that were used for various domestic purposes in the rural households.
Simtokha Dzong: This dzong, built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, stands on a low ridge 8km down the valley from Thimphu. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here. The most noteworthy artistic feature of this dzong is the series of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.
National Library: The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts,which are preserved at the National Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks for prayer flags.
Institute for Zorig Chusum: Commonly known as Arts & Crafts Scholor Painting School, the Institute offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills taught at the school.
Traditional Medicine Institute: In Bhutan, equal emphasis is given to both allopathic and traditional medicines. The rich herbal medicines made up from medicinal plants abundant in the Kingdom are prepared and dispensed here.The Institute is also a training school for traditional medicine practitioners.The complex is closed to visitors due to considerations of hygiene, but one can still walk around and view it from outside. In evening at leisure in hotel.Overnight in Thimphu.
Handicrafts Shops: A wide assortment of colorful, hand woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller crafts shops around the town.
Craft Bazzar; On Tuesday and Wednesday in centenary market Framer’s market, under support of Department of cottage & small industry and in collaboration with the department of culture, tourism council and the Department of agriculture, this market offers Bhutanese arts & crafts thus contributing in promotion, protection and preservation of traditional arts.
Botanical Garden in Serbathang: Located on hillside about 10km from the city, the garden offers a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanist will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest.
Coronation park: Located on the banks of the river, near the city stadium, parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or sit and watch the river flow by. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day4: Thimphu to Punakha
After breakfast drive to Phunakha across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks. Punakh awas the capital of Bhutan until the 1950s. Today, the central monk body moves to Punakha in the winter when it gets too cold in Thimphu. With a climate almost tropical in the summer, the valley is blessed with an abundance of fruits and rice. Punakha and Wangdue towns are located close to each other in one valley. Punakha was the former winter capital of Bhutan and was established in this location, in part because Punakha is a warmer at a relatively low altitude of 4,100 feet(1300m). The climate allows for the production of two rice crops each year,along with growth of subtropical fruits such as oranges, mangos, and bananas.During you stay here visit the impressive Punakha Dzong fortress located at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu Rivers, Chimi lhakgahng, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus. We’ll take an easy walk in the valley, visit some of its monasteries, villages, take short drives and enjoy this idyllic countryside dotted with farm houses and terraced hillsides.Further drive us to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Stands majestically ridge above Punakha valley, built over a period of 9 years by Bhutanese craftsman including carpenters, painters and sculptors consulted Holy Scriptures rather than engineering manuals to construct these four stored temple. It is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artist traditions and the only one of its kind in the world built by Her majesty the queen mother dedicated for the well being of the kingdom and the benefit of all sentient beings. Over night in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.
Day 5: Punakha to Paro (Hike to Paro Taktsang)
After a breakfast drive us to Paro across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks. After arriving in Paro hike to Taktsang Monastery or often called Tiger Nest Temple, which is built around a cave in which Guru Rimpoche (also known as Guru Padmasambhava) meditated. The eighth century old monastery is perched on a rock overlooking a sheer drop and clings seemingly impossible to a cliff at 900m above the valley floor. Tiger Nest Temple is considered, one of the must visit places around the world before we die. The hike is almost 2 hours, uphill at 30 to 40 degree inclined for an average trekker however it might take full day for some depending on your pace. First of half of the hike pulls up to cafeteria feels never ending however from the half point due to magical structure at your close sight, you are energized to push further. You actually feel very near, push yourself little further you are at the feet of the Tiger Nest, filled with joys and happiness never like before. And on the way back, you can run down, its easy always. After the trek,since you will be totally exhausted you will end the day with perfect hot stone bath with dinner at the farmhouse. You will save for going expensive massage and enjoy the traditional therapy bath. Enjoy the heavenly services. Overnight in Paro
Day 6: End of Bhutan Dragon Tour in Gross National Happiness country, Bhutan.
Our representative will drive you to Paro airport for departure.
BHUTAN DRAGON FESTIVAL/CULTURAL TOUR
12 DAYS FESTIVAL & CULTURAL TOUR
Long regarded as the forbidden Land, Bhutan or Druk Yul, the land of Thunder Dragon is one of the world’s little known treasure kingdom, remains something of a hidden treasure often describe as the Last Shangri-La. The enigmatic kingdom of Bhutan where “Wealth is measured by happiness, Gross National Happiness, instead of material success though Bhutanese live comfortable, tranquil lives. A fiercely traditional country, Bhutan has for centuries been all but cut off from the rest of the world, dedicated to preserving its rich Buddhist traditions, cultural hereitage and pristine landscapes. Until recently the limited number of tourists visit to Bhutan each year to discover Bhutan’s natural and cultural wonders but still many of the Bhutan’s ancient wonders remain undiscovered to the outside world.
On this Dragon festival trip, you will attend at least one or multiple colourful festivals, and get insight into Bhutanese culture and tradition, while visiting its unique fortresses, monasteries and ancient temples. We’ll also visit local farms, villages, schools and have an opportunity to meet and learn from locales. First introduced in 2001, Dragon Festival Tour has be modified slightly each year, to keep up with changing conditions. Join us on this definitive Cultural immersion Journey, among ancient monasteries and temples, Himalayan peaks and glacial rivers, rare flora and fauna and extraordinary people etc. We assure you that this will be one of your greatest memorable trip. Do not miss to book Dragon festival trip with Pekar Drangtsi Tours & Trek.
Itinereray Summery
Day: 12 days – Night: 11 nights
Outline Itinerary
Optional: (By Domestic Flight OR By Road)
Day 1 & 2: Arrive in Paro
Your journey by flight to Kingdom of Bhutan offers remarkable views of the world highest mountains including Mount Everest .Upon arrival by flight into Paro airport, meet/ greet and transfer to the hotel, where we spend two nights. Serene Paro at 7,500ft is one of Bhutan’s most fertile and most beautiful valley. Overnight in Paro.
Day 3: Paro to Jakar, Bumthang
After a leisurely breakfast drive to Paro airport. Within 25-30 minutes you will land into Bumthang, the spiritual and cultural heartland of the Kingdom. Overnight in Jakar.
Day 4: Jakar, Bumthang Halt
After breakfast visit many mouments in Jakar includes, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, Pelseling Goempa, Tharpaling Monastery, Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery and more. Overnight in Jakar, Bumthang.
Day 5: Jakar to Chumey viaTrongsa
After breakfast a short drive takes us over to Chumey valley. Continuing on across Youtongla pass, arrive at Trongsa, a small town, perched above a gorge, high above the Mangdechu river with a most spectacularly sited Dzong. During stay here you will visit Dzongsa Ta-Dzong ( Watch Tower), Trongsa dzong ( Fortress) and walk into Trongsa town. Overnight in Trongsa.
Day 6: Trongsa to Gangtey, Phobjikha Valley
From Trongsa drive us to Phobjikha. Phobjikha or Gangtey is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Overnight in Phobjikha.
Day 7 & 8: Punakha & Wangdue
After leisurely breakfast drive us to Punakha. Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang two separate towns, but they are located nearby like twin towns. The valley is at a lower elevation of about 1250m above sea level and therefore it enjoys subtropical climate; with warm summers and pleasant winters. Cactuses, Mandarin, and Bananas, Guava, grow alongside rice crops, in terraced fields, gently slopping down the hillsides; one of the most delightful sight to see. During your two days stay here, you will visit Punakha dzong (fortress), Chimi Lhakhang, Khamsum Yulley Namgyel stand, Wangduephodrang dzong (fortress) and more. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 9 & 10: Thimphu Valley
En-route, enjoy the scene of snowcapped peaks, including the highest mountain in Bhutan from Dochula pass and 108 stupas at Dochula know as Druk Wangyel Stupas. Before Dochula visit Botanical Garden at Lampelri. Then spend the next two nights in a comfortable hotel, and visit Thimpu, which is still the most relaxed capital in the world, without any traffic lights! In addition to its many attractions, you will have time for shopping, to go the post-office to send off Postcards, see an archery match and colorful farmer’s market.
Day 11: Thimphu to Paro (Hike to Takstang)
Our journey in Kingdom culminates into a hike to iconic Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery, the most famous site in Bhutan. Drive short distance to Paro and begin this famous hike, for which you can also hire a riding horses. Overnight in Paro
Day 12: End of your tour in kingdom of Gross National Happiness country, Bhutan
OR
Itinerary Summery
Day: 12 days – Night: 11 nights
Outline Itinerary (By LAND)
Day 1: Arrive in Paro to Thimphu
Your journey by flight to Kingdom of Bhutan offers remarkable views of the world highest mountains including Mount Everest. On arrival in Paro international airport, serene Paro at 7,500ft is one of Bhutan’s most fertile and most beautiful valley, PDT representative will meet/greet /receive you and transfer to Thimphu, around an hour drive. Upon arrival in Thimphu we will check into the hotel, after the lunch we will visit many monuments and attractions of Thimphu, including Tashicho Dzong, the farmers market, Gaint Buddha Statue, Memorial Chorten, Traditional Art School where 13 different arts are practiced and learnt, Indigenous Hospital, Textile museum, Handicraft workshops and more. Thimphu offers the best opportunity to do your own thing in the evening. It’s relaxed, friendly and pretty informal, and is most rewarding if you can be the same. Overnight in Thimphu. Atltitude 2,400m.
Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing
After our leisure breakfast we will visit many monuments and attractions of Thimphu, including Tashicho Dzong, the farmers market, Gaint Buddha Statue, Memorial Chorten, Traditional Art School where 13 different arts are practiced and learnt, Indigenous Hospital, Textile museum, Handicraft workshops, Tango and Cheri Geonpa,( The Tango Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located 14 km to north of Capital city of Thimphu, near Cheri Geonpa. Changangkha Lhakhang, Traditional Paper making center, National Library (Collection of Buddhist Scriptures), Takin Zoo, weaving center, craft bazaar/craft shop, craft show room and more. Thimphu offers the best opportunity to do your own thing in the evening. It’s relaxed, friendly and pretty informal, and is most rewarding if you can be the same. Overnight in Thimphu. Atltitude 2,400m.
Day 3 & 4: Thimphu to Punakha & Wangdue
We will checkout from the hotel and drive to Punakha, three hour drive from Thimphu to Wangdue Phodorang – Punakha valley is across spectacular Dochula pass. On a clear day, you will see panoramic views of snowcapped peaks of eastern Himalayan range, including Bhutan’s highest peaks. Punakha and Wangdue towns are located close to each other in one valley. Punakha was the former winter capital of Bhutan and was established in this location, in part because Punakha is a warmer at a relatively low altitude of 4,100 feet (1300m). The climate allows for the production of two rice crops each year, along with growth of subtropical fruits such as oranges, mangos, and bananas. During our stay here, we will visit the impressive Punakha Dzong fortress located at the confluence of Pho and Mo Chu Rivers, Chimi lhakgahng, temple of fertility which is associated with religious arts of phallus. We’ll take an easy walk in the valley, visit some of its monasteries, villages, take short drives and enjoy this idyllic countryside dotted with farm houses and terraced hillsides. Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang two separate towns, but they are located nearby like twin towns. The valley is at a lower elevation of about 1250m above sea level and therefore it enjoys subtropical climate; with warm summers and pleasant winters. Cactuses, Mandarin, and Bananas, Guava, grow alongside rice crops, in terraced fields, gently slopping down the hillsides; one of the most delightful sight to see.
Overnight in Punakha. Altitude 1,350m.
Day 5, 6 & 7: Jakar (Bumthang)
After our breakfast, we will check out from hotel, drive us to Jakar crossing two passes, the Pelela & Yotongla, arrive in Bumthang,Jakar the spiritual and cultural heartland of the Kingdom. Normally 5 hours drive.
During our stay here Will visist
Jambay Lhakhang : This monastery was built in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. It is one of the 108 monasteries built by him to subdue evil spirits n the Himalayan region. Its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century.
Kurje Lhakhang : Situated before Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 on the rack face where Guru meditated in the 8th century. Second temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of Guru’s body and is therefore considered the most holy. The third temple was built in 1990s by Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108 chorten wall.
Tamshing Lhakhang: Located across the river from Kurje Lhakhang, this temple was founded in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, the re-incarnation of Guru Padsambhava. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhistava). The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.
Pelseling Goempa Pelseling Goempa is a sacred monastery with rich historic values. Situated on a steep mountain, it is a half day trek (3-4 hours) from the area of Jakar. The trek starts off at a mild pace but later gains momentum. Along the trek route, travelers are gifted with breathtaking views of the valley and large species of flora and fauna. About two thirds of the way, there is a beautiful meadow which is the perfect picnic spot. The last part of the hike requires more uphill trek until eventually the destination is on sight.
Kunzangdrak Goemba is two hours walk above Chel Tang Valley. It is one of the most important sites related to Pemalingpa the great treasure discoverer in Bhutan, who also constructed the Goemba in 1488. Most of his sacred relics are kept here including the gilded stone bearing his footprint.
Tang Rimochen Lhakhang in the valley is a sacred place of Guru Rimpoche. A rock in front of temple bears a body print of the Guru and two khandroms (female celestial being). The site is named after the tiger stripe markings on the cliff. Footprints of the Guru and his consorts Mandarava and Yeshe Chhogyal are found below the lhakhang. Two large boulders nearby are said to be male and female jachungs (garudas
Ugyenchholing Palace in Tang valley is another attraction. Restored in 19th century, it is now housing the Family Museum, a place that will transport visitors to another world and time. The visitors will view permanent exhibits recreated to capture the ambience of the lifestyle of the Trongsa Penelop (Governor) Tshokey Dorji and his household. It also serves as retreat for those engaged in religious history. Bhutan’s history truly unfolds here.
Membartsho (The Burning Lake) in Tang valley is a wide spot on the Tang Chhu (chhu – water / river) and is considered to be one of the greatest pilgrimage sites of Bhutan. Pema Linga found several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures here. The importance of this site is indicated by the extensive array of prayer flags and the small clay offerings called ‘Tse Tsa’ in rock niches.
Tang Valley: Terton (treasure discoverer) Pema Lingpa, the famous saint, was born in the Tang valley of Bumthang. The people of this valley raise sheep and at higher elevation, yaks as the soil in this region is not so rich for agricultural activities. From Bumthang central, it is a short drive past the Dechenpelrithang sheep farm to an unpaved road that leads to the north. Just under a kilometer ahead, there is a rough track on the left and another kilometer ahead, there is junction where vehicle can be parked. From parking, it is a short walk down to the river. The path is lined with prayer flags and ends up above a gorge where the river forms a pool before it rushes on. Images of Pema Lingpa and his two sons are carved on a rock here.
Ura Valley: Jakar to Ura is 48 km, about one and a half hour drive. To reach here, the road climbs toJakar valley Bhutan amazingly open countryside, only occasionally running into forest. Large sheep pastures line the road up to 20 km behind the southern tip of the Tang valley. The route crosses Ura la pass (3,600m) with a magnificent view of Mount. Gangkhar Puensum. Villages in Ura have clustered houses, which is quite unusual in Bhutan. Above Ura village (3,100m) is a new temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. Inaugurated in 1986, it contains a huge statue of the master and remarkable paintings of the cycle of his teachings. Since last 25 years Ura has been transformed from a marginal community to prosperous valley.
Ngang Lhakhang: A few hours walk from the Tangbi Goemba is the small region of Ngang Yul (Swan Land) and this temple here is 100 m above the valley floor. The site was visited by Guru Rinpoche and present temple was built in the 15th century by Lama Namkha Samdup, a contemporary of Pema Lingpa. A three days festival is held here each winter with masked dances in honor of the founder of the temple.
Tangbi Goemba: A walk of half an hour north of Kurje Lhahang leads to this monastery, founded in 1470 by Shamar Rinpoche of the Kagyupa religious school. The temple has two sanctuaries and a temple of terrifying deities. The sanctuary on the ground floor contains statues of past, present and future Buddha and three clay statues probably dating end of the 15th century. On the upper floor, the vestibule contains two remarkable paintings of Guru Rinpoche’s heaven and the Buddha Amitabh’s heaven.
Buli Lhakhang: Located on a hilltop towards left side while driving from Yutonlga pass to Chumey valley, Buli Lhakhang was founded in 15th century by Choeying, the ‘heart son’ of great religious figure Dorji Linga and later extended in 20th century. The complex consists of three temples; The Jokhang downstairs has beautiful pillars, paintings and statues dating back to its construction while the two temples upstairs were restored in early 20th century and have respectively, the Buddha of Three Times and Three longevity deities as their main statues. Buli Lhakhang plays an important role for this region of Chumey valley and holds an important festival, the Buli Mani, every two years on the 16th day of the first month of Bhutanese calendar.
Tharpaling Monastery: Tharpaling Monastery situated at 3600m is composed of series of buildings overlooking the Chumey valley. A feeder road starting from Gyetsa village of Chumey valley leads to the monastery in half an hour but it is often cut in monsoon season. Since its establishment by Lorepa (1187-1250), Tharpaling has been restored several times but most notably by Bhutan’s First King at the beginning of the 20th century. The monastery later prospered and remained an active centre for Nyingmapa teaching.
The Tharpaling main building houses two temples; the temple on the ground floor called the Tshogkhang, is adorned with statues of Longchen Rabjam, Guru Rinpoche, Trisong Detsen, Shantarikshita (Shiwatso), the Indian monk first invited to build Samye monastery in Tibet, as well as the great 18th century master Jigme Lingpa. The small temple on the upper floor was restored at the time of the First King, Sir Ugyen Wangchuck and it contains beautiful paintings of the paradise of Amitabha; also of Longchen Rabjam, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and Guru Dewa, a rarely-seen form of Guru Rinpoche. The assembly hall of the monastic school with beautiful painting of the sixteen arts and the Lineage of Longchen Rabjam, is well worth seeing.
Tharpaling monastery is an important landmark of Bhutan, a monastic school where an ancient specific monastic tradition is taught, and holds an annual prayer, a monlam, in the first lunar month.
Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery:Located above the main town, about 3 km from Chamkhar town, the monastery was founded by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche in 1984 who was recognized at a very young age by H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama and H.H. 16th Karmapa as the reincarnation of a Tibetan lama whose spiritual lineage dates back to the nearest disciples of the great 9th century master. Since then the monastery has developed considerably with increase in number of monks to almost four hundred. The monastey has become part of an extensive effort to preserve and revitalize Tibetan culture. The monks regular curriculum include reading, memorizing the daily prayers, learning dharma dances, drawing mandalas, learning the melodies of sacred rituals, learning the use of ceremonial instruments and the art of making sacrificial objects, grammer, poerty, karika along with the basics of contemplation and instruction on the different stages of tantra.
Chankhar Lhakhang : Beyond Jambay Lhakhang is Changkhar Lhakhang, the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja. Because of its simplicity it looks like an ordinary village house. The original palace was built of iron and this is why it was named Chankhar, meaning iron castle. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by a Saint called- Dorji Lingpa.
Konchogsum Lhakhang: It was built in the 6th century but was renovated in 1995, which accounts for its fresh look. It contained a large bell and it is said that when this bell was rung it could be heard all the way in Lhasa in Tibet. During the 17th century a Tibetan Army tried to steal this bell but was too heavy and they dropped it and cracked it. It is now displayed at the National Museum in Paro.
Jakar Dzong : Founded by great grand-father of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549. It was upgraded after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as administrative centre for Bumthang valley, and houses the regional monk body. Further we will visit Burning Lake ( Mebartsho ) Swiss farm, stroll to Jakar town and more. Overnight in Jakar. Altitude 2,650m
Day 8: Jakar to Chumey via Trongsa
A short drive takes us over to Chumey valley. Continuing on across Youtongla pass, arrive at Trongsa, a small town, perched above a gorge, high above the Mangdechu river with a most spectacularly sited Dzong. Normally a 3hr journey. During our stay we will visit watch town, Trongsa Museum and more. Overnight in Trongsa.
Day 9 & 10: Gangtey, Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha or Gangtey is a wide glacial valley with a central stream meandering through the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo. Farmlands occupy the peripheral slopes where potatoes and turnips are grown. The central area is a marsh land protected as habitat for wildlife. At 2900m, this is the highest night halt on your journey. The valley is a protected (Conservation) area and is both scenically and culturally worthwhile. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, walk around the feeder road of Phobjikha valley meeting local and students and more. Overnight in Phobjikha. Altitude 2,900m
Day 11: Gangtey, Phobjikha to (Hike to Takstang)
Checkout from hotel and retrace our drive back to Paro via, Wangdue, Dochula and Thimphu. On arrival in Paro, our journey in Kingdom culminates into hike to iconic Taktsang (tiger’s nest) monastery, the most famous site in Bhutan. Drive short distance to Paro and begin this famous hike. During our stay here we will visit numerous shrines, fortresses and farm houses dot the landscape and graceful willow trees grow along the edge of Pachhu river, which passes through paddy fields and farmlands. During our time here, visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress which protected the valley against invaders from north. Visit beautiful 7th century Kichu Lhakhang temple, see many beautiful Buddhist wall paintings and iconography inside Dungtse Lhakhang, built in 1421. Among others you will also visit Bhutan National museum, housed in an ancient watchtower and visit Paro Rinphung Dzong, one of the most beautiful fortress /monastery in Bhutan. We also dedicate a full day for excursion to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s nest) monastery, a quintessential Bhutan travel experience. For this hike, you can also hire a riding horse to take you part of the way. Overnight in Paro. Altitude 2,200m.
Day 12: End of your tour in Gross National Happiness country, Bhutan
After breakfast transfer to Paro airport according to your flight times.
- GROUP SIZE No limit
- MEALS :All meals included
- TRIP ACCOMMODATION Hotel are tourist standard 3 to 4* category.
- TRIP TYPE Cultural Tour
- BEST MONTHS: March, April, October, November
- GOOD MONTHS: January, February, May, September, December
- LEAN MONTHS: June, July, August