This package includes visiting five culturally rich districts of Paro, Punakha, Wangdi, and Thimphu. Following is a brief description of the itinerary, however it should be noted that it’s not rigid and can be altered based on the interest and needs of the traveler.
Day 01 (Arrive – Paro): During the journey by Druk Air (Bhutan’s National Airline), one will witness spectacular view of Mt. Everest (of Nepal) and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the revered Mt. Jhomolhari and Mt Jichu Drake of Bhutan.
On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by representatives of Mangalam Tours and Travels and escort you to the Hotel. Later, you will be taken to visit Bhutan National Museum, fascinating place housed watchtower in a round fortress called Ta Dzong above the huge Paro Dzong. This will be followed by visit to Rinpung Dzong – regional administrative and religious centre, visit Kyichu temple which is believed to be build in 7 th century. In the evening free time to stroll around the township of Paro. Overnight at hotel Paro.
Day 2- The first half of the morning , there will be more exploration of Paro. Drive to north of the valley and embark on a short trek to Taktsang Monastery (Popularly known as Tiger’s Nest) which is a must visit tourist destination. For the Bhutanese or Buddhist, it is a sacred pilgrimage site. The Taktsang monastery clings, on seemingly impossible sheer, vertical cliff at 9680ft. The steep uphill hike to Taktsang, takes between 2 hours to 3 depending on the speed on the tourists. But there is option of riding on ponies till half -way where normally people rests near the tea house. For an average Bhutanese, the hike would take only 2 hrs. But once the destination is reached, the hike is simply worth the trouble, not only is the monastery built on the cliff but the view from top is breathtakingly beautiful. Again walk back down hill till the bus stop and drive to Drukgyal Dzong (the victory fortress) which is now in ruins. It is about 16 Kms away from Paro town. On a clear day one can get a breath-taking view of Mt. Jhomolhari while you drive to Drukgyal Dzong 17 th century.
Late afternoon- visit farm house if time permits. Drive to Thimphu, the capital city. The drive from Paro-Thimphu will take around two hours. On the way you will enjoy beautiful country side of Bhutan.
Day 3- Thimphu – The capital of Bhutan has an estimated population of about 70,000 people. There are many places of cultural significance to visit in Thimphu. Memorial chorten built in 1974 in the memory of third king, Jime Dorji Wangchuk, who is popular regarded as Father of Modern Bhutan, Tashichho dzong built in mid of 17 th century, this fortress serves as the office of the king, ministers and various government organizations. It is also the headquarter for central monastic body of Bhutan. Further sightseeing includes Traditional Medicine Institute, Folk Heritage Museum, Hand made Paper Factory, National library, Nunnery school, school of Arts & Crafts, Handicraft Emporium, Motithang zoo, where one can see the National animal of Bhutan- “Takin” and Sangay Gang (Thimphu view point). Mangalam arranges performance of mask dances and folk dances at the Royal Academy of Performing Arts if the group consists of more than 9(nine) persons if time permits. Evening free time for shopping. Overnight at hotel Thimphu.
Day 4- Punakha : Day four will take you to two another fascinating districts, Wangdiphodrang and Punakha. Drive from Thimphu to Punakha will take around 3 hours and before arriving Punakha. Enroute to Punakha and Wangdiphodrang is the stop at Dochula Pass situated Stop at 3050 meters above sea level and if weather is clear one can get a spectacular view of the Himalayan mountain range. Normally guests stop as café Dochula for coffee and tea and enjoy the view and clean air. In Punakha visit Punakha Dzong build in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyel and also winter residence of the monk body for 6 months. It is one of the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan and also ancient capital of Bhutan. If time permits, visit Chimmi Lhakhang (short walk of about half an hour through paddy fields to get to Chimmi Lhakhang -Monastery dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley, Divine Mad man). The local belief is people with infertility are blessed with children if prayed in Chimmi Lhakang. Evening free time for walk and overnight at hotel Punakha.
Day 5 Wangdhiphodrang- Day five travel to Wangdiphodrang from Punakha. In Wangdiphodrang, the most visited site is the Phobjikha Valley. Phobjikha valley is popularly known as the winter habitat of rare Black Necked Cranes and commendable efforts to preserve the habitat of these rare beautiful birds are visible while visiting the place. In Phobjikha, the famous Gangtey Monastery will be visited, from where you get a breathtaking view of the Phobjikha valley. There will be time to stroll around Wangdiphodrang town and interact with people. In the evening travel to Paro for the night halt.
Day 6- Fly out of Bhutan from Paro International Airport