4 DAYS/ 3 NIGHTS - BHUTAN FOR BEGINNERS

(PARO - THIMPHU - PARO)

 

DAY 1: BANGKOK - PARO / ARRIVAL

Embark on an exciting trip to Bhutan, a kingdom in the midst of the Himalayas. The Journey by air to Paro is approx. one hour from Kathmandu or Calcutta and five hours from Bangkok. You experience breath taking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Mount Jomulhari and Jichu Drake in Bhutan. Upon arrival our guide will bring you to the hotel. In the afternoon visit the National Museum (Ta-Dzong) which was originally the Watch Tower of the Paro Rinpung Dzong and converted into the National Museum in 1968. It is located on top of a hill above the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro valley and river. On the way back from the Museum, take a leisurely stroll to the Paro market and along the beautiful Paro River. Overnight in Paro.

 

DAY 2: PARO - THIMPHU 

After breakfast drive to Drugyal Dzong (a ruined fortress - 16 Km away from Paro town), an important historical site. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peaks of Mount Jomuihari (Alt. 7329 m) "Mountain of Goddess" can be seen on a clear day. Visit the Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro valley and is approached by a gently sloping flagstone road and a beautiful wooden bridge rooted with shingles and abutted by two guard houses. Continue your journey to Thimphu, the capital. It is about a 2 hours drive. Drive through the winding road along the Paro and Thimphu River (65 Km). On the way to Thimphu visit Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan located about 6 km from Thimphu town. It houses the largest Monastic schools in the country. Overnight in Thimphu.

 

DAY 3: THIMPHU - PARO 

After breakfast visit the Memorial Chorten (a huge stupa) built in memory of the third king of Bhutan who reigned the country from 1952-1972. Visit the Painting and Wood Craft School where traditional art and craft is still kept alive. Don´t miss the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved as well as the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts are displayed and can be purchased. Further on your sightseeing list is the Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building. This massive fortress houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the office and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot. Later in the afternoon you will be back to Paro. In the evening you can visit a traditional farmhouse and,if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight in Paro.

 

DAY 4: PARO - BANGKOK / DEPARTURE

After breakfast, transfer to the airport.