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Bhutan, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a unique and captivating destination that offers a rich blend of tradition and modernity amidst stunning natural beauty. The passage you provided beautifully encapsulates the essence of Bhutan, highlighting several key aspects of this enchanting country:
Cultural Traditions: Bhutan is renowned for its deep-rooted cultural traditions. Archery, one of the national sports, reflects the country’s history and skills. Traditional crafts are still a significant part of daily life, showcasing the craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is distinctive, with dishes featuring homemade cheese and intensely spicy chillies. The juxtaposition of flavors and the use of local ingredients make Bhutanese cuisine a culinary adventure.
Natural Beauty: Bhutan’s landscapes are breathtaking, with soaring mountains, lush forests, and pristine valleys. It’s a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
Well-being and Relaxation: Bhutan is known for its focus on well-being. Hot-stone baths, traditional healing practices, and serene environments create a space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Spirituality: The presence of prayer flags, monasteries, and the deeply held beliefs of Bhutanese people add a spiritual dimension to the country. It’s a place where the modern world intersects with ancient spiritual practices.
Environmental Stewardship: Bhutan’s commitment to the environment is exceptional, with over 70% of its land covered in forests. It’s the world’s first carbon-negative country, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Innovation: Despite its traditional values, Bhutan is also embracing science and technology innovation, showing that it is open to progress while preserving its cultural heritage.
Diversity: Bhutan is a diverse country with a range of experiences to offer, from its cities with their storied histories to the remote mountain regions that allow for quiet awe and contemplation.
Hospitality: Bhutanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and cherished.
Bhutan’s ability to balance tradition and progress, spirituality and innovation, and its commitment to environmental conservation make it a truly remarkable and multifaceted destination that continues to capture the hearts of travelers from around the world.
Arrive at Paro International Airport from Delhi or Calcutta. Paro is situated in a beautiful valley at 2280 metres and is a fitting introduction to this charming kingdom. Your guide will meet you and take you on a short one-hour drive along the Paro and Thimphu river valleys to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, at 2320 metres. Take a late afternoon walk around town and soak in the atmosphere of this magical capital with its busy shops and bazaars and photogenic citizens in national dress. Later, visit Tashichho Dzong, built in 1641, which housed the original National Assembly and is now home to Government offices, the throne room and offices of the King. Overnight in Thimphu
Thimphu sightseeing. Start your day by visiting Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery, popularly known as Zilukha Nunnery. You can sit with the Nuns and join them during their prayers. [If you wish, you could offer tea and snacks to the nuns – with some donations]. Then you can visit the School of Traditional Arts to watch students at work and to get an introduction to the 13 traditional arts, including painting, embroidery, woodcarving, mask-making and statue-making. You can also visit the Takin Reserve showcasing the unique national animal, the Takin. You may browse the striking collection of intricate textiles at the National Textile Museum or the weekly market. In the afternoon, you can visit the huge statue of Buddha Dordenma, which commands a tremendous view of Thimphu valley. Then hike from Kuensel Phodrang nature park to Changangkha Temple. A hike of around one hour or so through beautiful blue pine and rhododendron forest, which also gives a fantastic view of Thimphu valley. You can also like to visit the newly opened postal museum, detailing the history of Bhutan’s postal system and showcasing Bhutan’s rich assortment of interesting stamps. If you would like to view or buy Bhutanese handicrafts you may like to visit the new market opposite Taj Tashi hotel which has an array of stalls run by local handicraft shops selling purely homemade articles with no imports. Overnight in Thimphu
Thimphu to Punakha. In the morning drive approximately 3 hours to the old capital, Punakha, via Dochu La pass at 3050 metres, where we will stop for a hot drink and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Eastern Himalaya ranges. You will notice the change of climate and vegetation as we approach low-lying Punakha at 1250 metres. Take a pleasant walk for an hour or so across the terraced fields of Sopsokha village to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine Madman’ (Lama Drukpa Kuenley). Here, you can visit a Farmhouse for lunch or tea, to taste the red rice and local cuisine to experience the traditional Bhutanese way of life. You can also witness farmers working in the fields for the cultivation of paddy or the vegetables. You can visit the farmlands and try your hands on the farming. Then we will visit the imposing Punakha Dzong, “Palace of Great Happiness”. Built in 1637, it is strategically placed at the confluence of two rivers, the Po Chu and the Mo Chu. Overnight in Punakha
Today we return to Paro, a drive of approximately 4 hours. In the afternoon you can start your culture tour of Paro valley by visiting the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. You canalso visit the National Museum. This was previously housed in the Ta Dzong (watch tower) built on top of the hill above Rinpung Dzong to defend Rinpung Dzong and the Paro valley during times of war, in an unusual circular construction resembling a conch shell. Unfortunately, an earthquake in September 2011 damaged the Ta Dzong and the contents of the museum were moved to a neighbouring building. You can still see a magnificent collection of Bhutanese artefacts – costumes, religious paintings, arms, textiles and a fascinating collection of Bhutan stamps. Near to the museum you may also be able to see a demonstration of traditional wood turning skills by local artisans who make traditional wooden bowls and cups – and you can try your hand as well if you wish. Late afternoon, take a walk around the Paro town and continue your walk towards the Paro bridge along the riverside. Here you should have a good view of Paro Dzong to take photographs. You can also walk across the bridge to get more view of the Dzong. Overnight in Paro
Take a day walk to the ‘Tiger's Nest’, the sacred Taktshang monastery which clings to the rock face 900 metres above the valley floor. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown to the site riding on a tigress. He subsequently meditated here for three months. It is one of Bhutan’s most holy sites and draws pilgrims not only from Bhutan but also from neighbouring Buddhist countries. You can have lunch at the Taktshang cafeteria from where you get a spectacular view of the monastery. Late afternoon, visit a local farmhouse and take the opportunity to try the restorative properties of a hot stone bath to feel relaxed after the hike. If you prefer your creature comforts, you can take tea or dinner with the family and then return to your hotel. Overnight in Paro
Early in the morning your guide will accompany you to the airport to see you off onto your flight and wish you Tashi Delek