| Western and Central Bhutan Tour (14 Days) |
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This tour is designed for travelers who is interested to see greater part of the Kingdom and experience Bhutanese lifestyle. The itinerary features, visit to Paro, Thimphu, Wangdue, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang and several rural villages and small settlements.
Day - 1 Arrive Paro by DrukAir. Your introduction to our enchanted kingdom begins on a flight over the Himalayas into the lush green valley of Paro; truely one of world's most spectacular sights. Flying into Paro, Bhutan is a unique experience altogether. You will view the world's highest, most majestic peaks and enjoy the view of an approaching valley with its primeval alpine forest, monasteries, temples and farmhouse nestled in splendid mountain isolation. On arrival, our representative will receive and escort you to the hotel where arrangements have been made. Evening, take a leisurely walk around the town and interact with the locals.
Day - 2 Paro Sightseeing. Visit the National Museum (Ta-Dzong). This was actually the watch Tower of the Paro Rinchen Pong Dzong. It was converted into the National Museum in 1968. Rinchen Pong Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro valley and houses the District Administration office and the Monk Body. It was built in 1645 AD. Visit Drugyal Dzong, 15km from Paro Town. The name Drugyal means " Victorious ". The Dzong was built in 1650 AD by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the founder of Bhutan, to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan army and it formed one of the chain of defensive fortresses against Tibetan invasion. Drive to Thimphu is 65 km from Paro and takes about 2 hours to drive.
On the way, halt at Dochula pass (26 km) for tea and snacks and to enjoy the most spectacular view of the eastern Himalayan mountains. After lunch, visit Punakha, the former Capital of Bhutan. Punakha Dzong lies between the rivers Phochu and Mochu, "Male River and Female." The Dzong now houses the District Administration office and the winter residence of the state monastic body and its chief abbot. It was built in 1637 AD. Visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong which is 13 km. from Punakha. Wangdiphodrang Dzong and its small town is perched on a hill between two rivers. This is another District Administration office housed in a fortress ( Dzong ). It was built in 1638 AD.
Picnic lunch on the way. Overnight in Trongsa. In morning: Visit Trongsa Dzong. This Dzong was the ancestral home of the ruling dynasty. It is also the District Administration office. It was built in 1648 AD. Visit the Ta-Dzong, the watch tower where displays of Mongol armors can be seen. Afternoon: Drive to Bumthang (Jakar) 68 km. The journey takes about 3 hrs. and is over one of the most scenically beautiful route in Bhutan. Check in at the Guest House.
The visitors can visit the historical Jakar Dzong built by Minjur Tenpa, the Third Druk Desi in 1646 AD. It was later repaired and expanded by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay, the Fourth Desi, in 1683 AD. " Desi " means temporal ruler appointed by Shabdrung. It is Probably the biggest Dzong in Bhutan with the surrounding walls about 1 km. in circumference. The central tower (Uchhi) is about 150 ft. high. Visit several ancient and sacred Buddhist Monasteries, Bumthang sheep farm, Diary farm, Juice factory, Maeber Tso (burning lake ), and other places of interest.
Morning: More sight seeing in Bumthang. Lunch in Bumthang and drive to Trongsa. Overnight stay in Trongsa. Day - 9 Drive to Gangtey Gompa. (174 km). Overnight halt in Gangtey Guest House. Gangtey is a beautiful place situated at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtay, one can view the nearby picturesque black mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley. The place was inaccessible except on horse back or on foot until recently. Bumthang Trek: 3 days.
Begin the three day trek. (Riding ponies can be provided if required). The trail winds through meadows and fields and then climbs through a mixed forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendron to the Tselela pass. (3320m) Overnight in camp. Altitude: 3000m, Distance: 14 km, Time: 5-6 hrs.
A short ascent will bring you to the Tashila pass ( 2780 m ). Be sure to fill your water bottles shortly after crossing the pass, as the descend is dry. You walk through an ever changing landscape into the drainage of Dangchu river. Overnight camping along the Dangchu.
Walk about 45 minutes to the motor road and from there the transport will drive you to Paro. Lunch on the way in Thimphu and drive on to Paro. Thimphu falls on the way with only a 6km diversion.
Drive up to Satsam Chorten (10 km from the hotel ) and from there walk up to Taktsang Monastery. The name Taktsang means "Tiger’s Nest." The Monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 4000ft. and overlooks the Paro river. The round trip hike takes about 4-5 hrs. Picnic lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria. Evening: Cultural show.
In morning, our representative will bid you farewell at the Airport!! Tashi Delek! |
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| Last Updated ( Friday, 28 August 2009 ) |