Western Bhutan Cultural Tour of Paro and Thimphu (05 Days)
Day 01: Arrive Paro Airport
 During the journey, one will experience breath taking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Mount Jomulhari and Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro Airport, you will be received by representatives of our tour operator who will escort you to the hotel. Lunch at the hotel.
Afternoon: Visit the National Museum ( Ta-Dzong ). This was originally the Watch Tower of the Paro Rinpung Dzong. It was converted into the National Museum in 1968. It is located on top of a hill above the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro valley and river. On the way back from the Museum, take a leisurely stroll in the Paro market and along the beautiful Paro river.
Day 2: Paro - sightseeing
Drive to Drugyal Dzong ( a ruined fortress - 16 Kms away from Paro town ).
Although in ruins, this Fortress of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peaks of Mount Jomulhari ( Alt. 7329m ) "Mountain of Goddess" can be seen on a clear day.
Visit the Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro valley and is approached by a gently sloping flagstone road and a beautiful wooden bridge roofed with shingles and abutted by two guard houses. Today, this fortress houses the Administrative seat of the district of Paro and the district Monk Body with about 200 monks. The central tower ( Utse ) of the fortress, is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan with its superb woodwork. The Dzong ( fortress ) was built in 1645 AD. Picnic lunch at the river bank or in the hotel.
Afternoon : Drive to Thimphu ( capital ). The drive to Thimphu through the winding road along the Paro and Thimphu river takes about 2 hr. ( 65 Kms. ). Check in at the hotel. After tea at the hotel, take a leisurely stroll in the Thimphu town.
Day 03: Thimphu - sightseeing
Morning: Visit the Memorial Chorten ( a huge stupa ) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the country from 1952-1972. Visit the Painting and Wood Craft school where traditional art and craft is still kept alive. Visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved. Visit the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts are displayed and can be purchased. Lunch at the hotel.
Afternoon: Visit Simtokha Dzong. This is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan located about 6 Kms. from Thimphu town. It houses the largest Monastic schools in the country.
Visit Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building. This massive fortress houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the office and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot.
Evening: Free to do some shopping in the town.
Day 04: Thimphu/Paro - Sightseeing
After an early breakfast, drive up to Dochula pass ( 26 Kms. ). From the pass, you can enjoy the most spectacular view of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. Tea/coffee at Dochula and return to Thimphu.
Drive up to Dechencholing ( 5 Kms. from Thimphu town ). At Dechencholing, you can view the palace of the Queen Mother where all the luncheons and banquets for the Head of the States and other important guests are hosted. Also, visit a beautiful private monastery on top of the hill. Lunch at the hotel.
Afternoon: Drive to Paro. Check in at the hotel. After Tea/coffee, Drive up to Satsam Chorten (10 Kms. from Paro town). From there, you can view the picturesque Taktsang Monastery " Tigers Nest "perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800 ft.
Day 05: After an early breakfast, drive to Paro Airport. See off by the representative of our tour operator or your guide.
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