10 Days Tour of the Dragon

Day-1

 Arrival in Paro

• Arrival: Greeted at Paro International Airport by your guide, who will help with your transfer to your hotel.
• Check-in: Settle into your hotel and refresh after your journey.
• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong):
  • Description: A historic fortress-monastery built in 1646, offering magnificent views of the Paro Valley. Explore its impressive architecture, intricate woodwork, and traditional Bhutanese murals.
  • Historical Context: Learn about its role in Bhutanese history, including its use as a government administration and religious center.
• National Museum (Ta Dzong):
  • Description: Originally a watchtower, it houses a diverse collection of Bhutanese art, cultural artifacts, and historical exhibits.
  • Exhibits: Highlights include traditional clothing, religious artifacts, and ancient weapons.
• Drukyal Dzong:
  • Description: Visit this ancient fortress, built in 1647, which played a significant role in protecting Bhutan from Tibetan invasions. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Experience: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and learn about the dzong’s historical significance.
• Evening: Enjoy your first Bhutanese dinner, featuring local delicacies such as momo (dumplings) and shakam ema datshi (dried beef with cheese).

Day- 2

 Paro to Bumthang

• Domestic Flight to Bumthang:
  • Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Bhutan's mountainous landscapes as you fly from Paro to Bumthang.
• Tamshing Goemba:
  • Description: Founded by Pema Lingpa in 1501, this monastery is renowned for its ancient wall paintings and religious relics.
  • Experience: Explore the monastery’s vibrant murals and sacred artifacts.
• Kurjey Lhakhang:
  • Description: A revered temple complex housing the sacred body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Significance: Understand the historical and spiritual importance of the site.
• Jambay Lhakhang:
  • Description: Built in the 7th century by Tibetan King Sontsen Gampo, this temple is one of Bhutan’s oldest.
  • Experience: Discover the temple’s rich history and its role in Bhutanese culture.
• Jakar Dzong:
  • Description: A fortress built in 1549, offering panoramic views of the Bumthang Valley.
  • Highlights: Explore the dzong’s architectural features and its significance as a monastic and administrative center.

Day- 3

Bumthang to Thimphu - Tour of the Dragon

• Tour of the Dragon:
  • Event: Participate in the renowned mountain bike race covering 268 kilometers from Bumthang to Thimphu.
  • Route: Traverse four high mountain passes—Kiki La, Yotongla, Pelela, and Dochula—each offering spectacular views of Bhutan’s rugged terrain.
  • Finish Line: Arrive at Thimphu’s clock tower, where you can celebrate your achievement and enjoy the local festivities.
• Evening: Rest and rejuvenate at your hotel in Thimphu.

Day- 4

Sightseeing in Thimphu

• Kuenselphodrang Nature Park:
  • Visit: Admire the 169-foot bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.
  • Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley from the park.
• National Memorial Chorten:
  • Description: A sacred stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
  • Experience: Participate in circumambulations and observe local devotees.
• Thimphu Dzong (Tashichhodzong):
  • Description: A grand fortress and monastery that houses government offices and religious institutions.
  • Highlights: Explore the dzong’s impressive architecture and its role in Bhutanese governance and spirituality.
• Institute of Zorig Chusum:
  • Visit: Learn about Bhutanese traditional arts, including painting, sculpture, and weaving, at this school of thirteen arts.
  • Experience: Observe students in their craft and understand Bhutan’s rich artistic heritage.

Day- 5

• Drive to Punakha:
  • Route: Scenic drive through lush landscapes and picturesque villages.
• Dochula Pass:
  • Visit: Stop at this pass adorned with 108 chortens (stupas) built by the Queen Mother to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over insurgents.
  • Views: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
• Chhimi Lhakhang:
  • Description: A fertility temple known for its blessings and unique phallic symbolism.
  • Experience: Participate in rituals and learn about the temple’s cultural significance.
• Punakha Dzong:
  • Description: An architectural marvel situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
  • Highlights: Explore the dzong’s impressive courtyards, temples, and intricate woodwork.
• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten:
  • Description: A beautiful chorten built in 1999, showcasing traditional Bhutanese artistry.
  • Experience: Walk through its serene surroundings and admire its intricate murals and statues.

Day- 6

Punakha to Gangtey

• Drive to Phobjikha Valley:
  • Route: Scenic drive through diverse landscapes.
• Gangtey Monastery:
  • Description: A 17th-century monastery belonging to the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Experience: Explore the monastery and its role in local spiritual life.
• Phobjikha Valley:
  • Visit: Explore the valley, known for its winter population of Black-necked cranes.
  • Highlights: Enjoy short hikes and view these endangered birds in their natural habitat.
• Return to Punakha: Return to Punakha for the night.

Day -7

: Punakha to Thimphu

• Heritage Museum:
  • Visit: Explore exhibits showcasing Bhutan’s rural past through traditional artifacts and displays.
• Papermaking Factory:
  • Description: Observe traditional Bhutanese papermaking techniques.
• Textile Museum:
  • Visit: Discover Bhutan’s textile traditions, including weaving and dyeing techniques.
• Takin Sanctuary:
  • Description: Visit the sanctuary to see Bhutan’s national animal, the takin, a unique ungulate.
• Simtokha Dzong:
  • Description: Bhutan’s oldest dzong, founded in 1629, serving as a center for learning and monastic life.
• Return to Thimphu: Reflect on your journey through Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders.

Day - 8

Thimphu to Haa to Paro

• Drive to Haa Valley:
  • Route: Scenic drive over Chele La Pass, offering panoramic views of the Paro and Haa valleys.
• Katsho Village:
  • Visit: Explore this traditional village and its local customs.
• Katso Lhakhang:
  • Description: An ancient temple that reflects Bhutanese religious and architectural traditions.
• Return to Paro: Enjoy the scenic drive back to Paro and explore the town or shop for souvenirs.

Day -9

Paro

• Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest):
  • Description: A memorable hike to this cliffside monastery, perched 900 meters above Paro Valley.
  • Experience: Enjoy stunning views and a profound spiritual experience at this iconic site.
• Kyichu Lhakhang:
  • Visit: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples, dating back to the 7th century.
  • Experience: Reflect on the temple’s historical significance and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day- 10

Departure from Paro

• Farewell: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
• Reflection: Reflect on your journey through Bhutan’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
• Departure: Board your flight back home, carrying with you lasting memories of Bhutan's enchanting landscapes and experiences.