Spirit of the Himalayan
The wide central valley of Bumthang, that is the familial home of Buddhism in Bhutan and a famous pilgrimage site for Bhutanese, is the highlight of this trip. You can see the valuable religious artifacts surrounded by several important monasteries and temples. You will also visit the Punakha Dzong, Wangdiphordang and Gangtey Gompa. In addition, you will also enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of capital Thimpu and Paro valley.
Reception by our representative and drive to Thimphu.
We visit the King's memorial Chorten; the handmade paper Factory and the Archery Grounds where Bhutan's National Sport of Archery can be witnessed. In the afternoon, visit the traditional medicine hospital, school of Thangka painting and Mask Making and Traditional crafts. Leisurely walk in the capital town of Thimphu.
Drive over the 3050m pass of Dochula to view the spectacular scenery of the Himalayan ranges; descend to the old winter capital of Punakha; visit Wangdiphodrang valley. O/N hotel
Excursion to peaceful Gangtey valley, home of the rare black-necked cranes that fly over Tibet in the winter; visit the Gangtey monastery.
Drive to Bumthang. Visit Tongsa - the biggest Dzong in Bhutan and the seat of power in 19th century Bhutan; walk to the "Watch Tower", Ta Dzong that once protected the Dzong below.
Considered the most sacred and religious of all the valleys in Bhutan. In Bhumthang view the White Bird Dzong, drive to the Flaming Lake – Membartsho where Terton Pemalingpa, the Treasure Finder and reincarnation of the eminent Buddhist saint Guru Padmasambhava found the sacred religious treasures in the 15th century.
Drive back to Punakha with a picnic lunch en route.
Drive back toThimpu; visit Simtokha Dzong; and continue to Paro. O/N hotel in Paro.
In Paro, visit the northern part of the valley to Drukgyel Dzong ruins (Monastery Fortress) that
once was a strategic post to withhold invading Tibetan forces from the north; visit the famous
Kyichu Lhakhang- one of 108 sacred Lhakhang built by the Buddhist King Srongtsen Gampo of Tibet. Visit the Rinpung Dzong-fortress of a mountain of jewels; the Nature History Museum at Ta Dzong is one of the finest in Asia.
Hike up to the Tiger's Nest known as Taktsang one of the most spectacular and most sacred pilgrim sites to all Buddism - Guru Padmasambhava is known to have flown on a Tigers to meditate on the cliffs- the Tigress being his consort the diving Yeshe Tsogyel.
Drive to Paro Airport for onward journey.
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