Bhutan Extension

Arrive in Paro and meet with our local representatives before traveling to Thimphu, Bhutan’s mini metropolis. After lunch, enjoy an excursion around the town. Visit Kuensel Phodrang, home to the largest Buddha statue in the country, offering breathtaking views of the Thimphu Valley. Explore Tashichho Dzong, known as the “fortress of the glorious religion,” originally built in 1641 and later reconstructed by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. The iconic landmark houses government ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monastic body.

After breakfast, explore Thimphu and its surrounding landmarks. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, a 12th-century temple and monastic school established on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, perched above the Thimphu Valley. Next, head to the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, a rare and vulnerable species found only in Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar. Learn about Bhutan’s unique approach to healthcare at the Traditional Medicine Institute, where herbal medicines derived from medicinal plants are prepared and dispensed. Then, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students train in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Experience the country’s heritage at Simply Bhutan, an interactive living museum offering insights into traditional Bhutanese life. Conclude the day at the Royal Botanical Garden, spread across 29 acres on the outskirts of Thimphu Valley. Established in 1999 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the Fourth Drukpa Gyalpo, the garden showcases Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.

Travel to Punakha, a scenic drive of approximately three hours through picturesque valleys and mountain slopes dotted with typical Bhutanese villages. From Dochula Pass, at over 10,000 feet, enjoy vast panoramic views of the high, snowcapped peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas on a clear day. Continue the drive into the Punakha Valley. On the way, visit Chhimi Lhakhang, founded in the 15th century by Lama Dukpa Kinley, also known as the “Divine Madman.” After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung.

After breakfast, drive approximately 4 hours to Paro, visiting Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the kingdom, dating back to the 7th century. Next, visit Ta Dzong, a former Watch Tower now serving as the National Museum, as well as Rinpung Dzong, which houses a monastic school and the office of the civil administration.

After breakfast, drive for approximately half an hour before beginning a hike that will take about five hours (round trip). The trail follows an ancient path marked by river-powered prayer wheels. Upon reaching Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest, be amazed by the sight of this iconic Buddhist shrine, perched 900 meters above the valley on a cliff. Despite a fire in 1998, the monastery has been meticulously rebuilt to its former glory. According to legend, Guru Padma Sambhava flew from Tibet on the back of a tigress to subdue five demons who were obstructing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan in 746 A.D. If time permits, visit Drugyel Dzong, a symbolic structure under reconstruction. Built by the Shabdrung to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetans in the 16th century, this fortress offers a view of Jomolhari Peak (“Mountain of the Goddess”) on clear days.

After an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your homebound flight to Canada.

B – Breakfast   L – Lunch   D – Dinner