The mysterious land of “Thunder Dragon’’ awaits you with the most breathtaking adventure of all time. This exclusive Bhutan tour is perfect to discover the nation hidden in the clouds. Feel the freshness of Bhutan during the Bhutan Discovery tour continuously for 9 days. While you are in Bhutan you will experience the rich cultural heritage, peculiar traditions, and glamor of a land of happiness. Get deep travel satisfaction and let go of yourself out in the freshness of the alpine hills of Bhutan. An escape away from the concrete jungle and monotonous daily schedule is this Bhutan discovery tour. Suitable for all age groups and just enough time to explore Bhutan and its remarkable beauty.
Bhutan is a small and happiest country squished between two giant countries China and India with historical, religious, and adventure-filled attractions. During this tour, you will explore major cities of Bhutan such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and many other captivating places. A journey across western and central Bhutan will leave an unforgettable imprint on your life with its simple yet so complicated elegance of the nation. Bhutan is known as a mysterious country with surprising mythologies and cultural practices throughout the country. Each of the iconic landmarks is tied to hypnotic stories passed down from generation to generation.
Bhutan is called the only remaining Shangri La and it is worth all the hype due to its pristine nature with unique biodiversity from snow-laden mountains, lush valleys, and luxurious dense forests. And besides nature, Bhutan also proudly boasts its Buddhist religion and its cultural practices that are revered and adored by people across the world. Asians are fond of festivals and celebrations and Bhutan is no exception, Bhutanese are the most fun and festive-loving people because they celebrate festivals throughout the year. Traveling to new and foreign countries opens an opportunity to explore their culture, food, traditions and way of living and these are the true essence of traveling.
Bhutan has some of the most idolized Buddhist monuments and Bhutan has many monasteries and religious sites dedicated to Buddhism and revered saints. The landmarks are influenced by Tibaten as you see the beautiful prayer flags dancing to the rhythm of the wind. These are the places where you see authentic Bhutanese art engraved on the walls of the structure and exterior. The vibrant colors inside the architecture clocked in beautiful history will warm your heart and grant you spiritual tranquility. You will be accompanied by a local guide with its significance, history and do’s and don'ts.
Among all the countries Bhutan has different spark and beauty within the country as Bhutan is the only nation that calculates the country’s growth with its happiness and its country's growth with GDH gross national happiness. In contrast, other countries measure their growth with GDP gross domestic product. 70% of the country is covered in forests making it the utopia for the flora and fauna which you can see on your hike program towards the iconic Taktsang Lhakhang.
The Charming Attractions of Bhutan
Bhutan’s ancient name ‘’Lho Mon’’ meaning (Southern Land of Darkness) has a lot to offer to its visitors with some of the most spectacular heritage sites that one can witness. Bhutan has its charm when it comes to remarkable landmarks clocked in historic mythologies and beautiful Bhutanese traditions. Bhutan has both natural and artificial attractions that make your jaw drop. Bhutan houses some of the most prominent and majestic Buddhist monuments in the world and one of them is the world-know Taktsang Lhakhang, internationally known as the Tiger’s Nest monastery. Besides the imposing building, Bhutan is a paradise for numerous species of flora and fauna as 70% of the county is covered by forests and protected areas.
Historical Monuments in Thimphu
Thimphu, also spelled as Thimbu, is the capital of Bhutan. The city is situated in the west-central part of the country. Besides Thimphu being the government seat, it is also known for its spellbinding and divine Buddhist sites. The mentioned attraction and their short description will give you a visual idea and what to expect.
Tachogang Lhakhang is one of the most visited monasteries in Bhutan, although it is not famous for its monastery but for the iron chain bridge that leads you to the monastery itself. The translation of Tachogang Lhakhang is the ‘’temple of the hill of excellent horse’’. A brief history of the bridge, it was built by one of the greatest architects and respected saints Drupthob Thangtong Gyalpo in the 14th century. The quiet temple is located across the Paro-Thimphu highway from where you will get to see the iconic bridge. The historic bridge floats over a beautiful gurgling river overlooking the hills and the stunning scenery.
Tashichho Dzong is an astounding Buddhist fortress-like monastery sited on the banks of the Wang Chhu river on the northern edge of Thimphu city. It is just 2 km away from the city and you can reach this place either by comfortable drive or a refreshing hike. Tashichho Dzong was first constructed in 1216 AD by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa and went through several reconstructions due to the damage. Tashichho Dzong has a unique meaning to it and it translates to ‘’Fortress of the Glorious Religion’’. This amazing building has also been the capital of Bhutan’s government since 1968. The stunning architecture stands tall with its glorious white-washed walls and iconic red roof which is easily seen from a distance. Beautifully surrounded by a well-maintained garden and green lawns.
Kuensel Phodrang also known as the Buddha’s Point of Thimphu is a classic solid bronze statue of Buddha Dordenma (Shakyamuni Buddha). Located at an elevation of 2500m above sea level overlooking Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. As the large Budhha, there are thousands of miniature Buddhas gilded and made of bronze. It was constructed in 2015 to honor the 60th birthday of Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the fourth Dragon King of Bhutan. The gigantic 169 feet (52m) statue represents Budhha’s teaching, fortune, inner peace, and encouragement of being a good human being. This place is a perfect viewpoint for the photographic valley view and iconic landscape insight.
National Memorial Chorten (A Tibetan Buddhist Shrine) also known as the Thimphu Chorten is a Buddhist memorial stupa located in the southern central part of Thimphu city. The memorial Chorten was first founded by Thinley Norbu Rinpoche in the interval (1931-2011). It was built in 1974 in memory of Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, (Druk Gyalpo) the Third Dragon King of Bhutan. The architecture is simple yet so elegant with a whitewashed Tibetan-style stupa with a golden apex on top of the shrine. The Chorten has four entrances in four directions but only one open entrance for devotees to visit the shrine. Other interiors are heavily decorated annexes where you can get a glimpse of authentic Bhutanese artwork.
Motithang Takin Preserve is a wildlife preserve special for the Takins (Burdorcas Taxicolor) in the Motithang district of Thimphu, Bhutan. Motithnag Takin preserved used to be a mini zoo and later was converted into today’s Takin preserve. Takins are the national animal of Bhutan due to their religious and mythological association with Bhutan's history. In Buddhism, it was believed that animals are part of divine creation and one should not harm them as a result they declared the area as Takin preserve. This Takin preserved attracts thousands of tourists every year as Takins have very distinguished features that as super-sized schnoz or ‘’bee-stung moose’’ as some people may describe it.
Imposing Attractions of Punakha
Punakha is well known for its dazzling 17th-century fortress and other brilliant architecture. Also, Punakha is renowned for its exclusive agricultural techniques for growing rich and graceful architecture. Punakha is located at the junction of two lovely rivers they are Pho Chhu (Male) and Mo Chhu (Female) which makes the place even more majestic and dramatic.
Punakha Dzong officially known as Pungthang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang which translates to ‘’The palace of great happiness or bliss’’ is an administrative center of the Punakha. The Punakha Dzong is deeply rooted in history and significance as a result the dzong now serves administrative and religious purposes. It is also the second largest and second oldest dzong in Bhutan making it the most iconic 180 m long and 72m wide ancient architecture. It is pinpointed in the junction of two major rivers Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu giving it the most phenomenal view. The imposing building is the remains and backbone of the great history and vibrant culture. This is the place where you see the true work of art in the forms of intricate wood carvings and many other expressions of great craftsmanship.
Serene Attractions of Trongas
Trongas is a hilltop town situated in the center of the country. It is a great example of a mix of heritage and nature. The translation of this word is ‘’New Village’’ in Dzongkha which is the national language of Bhutan. Trongas has some of the most dramatic and lofty historical attractions.
Chendebji Chorten is a stupa in Bhutan located 41 km west of Trongas at 2430 m above sea level. Bhutan has great mythologies regarding its religious sites and it is believed that this stupa covers the body of an ‘’Evil Spirit’’. Chendebji Chorten is constructed in Nepalese style as it looks similar to the Boudhanath Stupa present in Kathmandu, Nepal. The features of the Chendebji Chorten and Boudhnath's stupa are the eyes drawn on top of the stupa. It was built in the 19th century by Lama Zhida.
Trongsa Dzong formerly known as Trongsa Dzong nestled at an elevation of 2300m above sea level and is located in the center of the Trongas district. Trongsa Dzong translates to ‘’The Fortress on the tip of a Dungkhar’’ (conch). The massive monastery covers a total area of 1807 sq km, it is bordered by Wangdue Phodrang district to the west and Bumthang district to the east side built in 1647 during the time of Trongsa Penlop Chogyal Minjur Tenpa. It is an important administrative building that provides the headquarters of the government of the Trongas district.
Wonderland of Bhutan - Bumthang
Bumthang is one of 20 districts in Bhutan and one of the most stunning as well. It comprises four valleys in it which are Choekhor, Tang, Chumey and Ura. Bumthang directly translates to ‘’Beautiful Fildes’’, it is one of the most historic dzongkhag (Districts) as there are several ancient temples and sacred sites. Some of them are as mentioned below.
Jambay Lhakhang locally known as Jambay temple or Temple of Maitreya in Bumthang is believed to be among those 108 temples built by the Tibaten king similar to Kyichu Lhakhang. The ancient temple, Jambay Lhakhang is situated in the highland of the Bumthang Chhu river. Jambay Lhakhang hosts an exclusive mask dance and other ceremonies and the two major highlights of Jambay Lhakhang are Mewang or Fire Dance and Tercham or Nacked Dance. Fire dance is done to purify the sins of the people and Nacked dance is done to bless infertile women so they can bear a child.
Kurjey Lhakhang is believed to be the holiest and most sacred temple in Bhutan, located in the Bumthang district. The word Kurjey is derived from imprint (Jey) and body (Kur) as it is believed that Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint on the walls of the cave while meditating. It is located on a side of a hill surrounded by 108 Chorten walls, the holy complex houses three temples and is Guru Lhakhang, Sampa Lhundrup and Ka Gon Phor Sum Lhakhang. Although it is a temple it is not less than any of the majestic Dzongs and Fortress as its walls are whitewashed with delicately carved woodwork done on the entrance of the other parts of the temple. All three stunning buildings face the south and are surrounded by an enclosure made of 108 mini Chorten.
Namkha Nyingpo Goemba is a peaceful monastery located on a hill just east of the town of Jakar, Bumthang, Bhutan. Namkha Nyingpo Goemba is also the administrative center of Bumthang. The monastery was established in 1970 and is home to around 600 monks who devote their lives to learning about Nyingma Buddhism. The word Nyingma translates to old school, the oldest of four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
The mystique Gangtey valley of Bhutan
Set in the center of Bhutan, Gangtey valley is an extraordinary glacial valley called Phobjikha valley. This valley houses numerous ancient monasteries with a beautiful vast U-shaped valley. This place provides a wonderful valley view and this place is also known for the graceful Blacked necked cranes that migrate from Tibet to Phobjikha valley each year. Every year Bhutan hosts a colorful festival called Tsechu also known as Crane Festival to celebrate and welcome the cranes in the winter month in the courtyard of Gangtey monastery.
Phobjikha Valley is a U-shaped valley that houses several monasteries, echoing the mysterious charms and Bhutan's pride. It is one of the gorgeous glacial valleys which is the second home of Black Necked cranes that migrate from Tibet in winter. The mesmerizing valley boasts various nature trails and is quite popular for trekking routes as well besides that there is a beautiful Monastery as well as a Black Necked Crane information center. In Bhutan Black Necked Cranes are believed to be a symbol of longevity and every year the locals eagerly await the return of these sacred birds and celebrate their arrival by organizing a festival called Tsechu or Crane Festival.
The Scared Paro valley
Paro is a valley town of Bhutan, west of the capital city, Thimphu. It is the only city that has an international airport in the entire country and is hugely famous among tourists. As soon as you land at the airport the majestic dzong which outstands the valley will catch your attention. Paro houses some of the most majestic and lofty landmarks in Bhutan. The world-famous Tiger’s Nest monastery otherwise known as Taktsang Lakhang is also in Paro.
Simtokha Dzong officially known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang is a charming ancient fortress built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Simtokha Dzong translates to ‘’Palace of the profound meaning of secret mantras’’. It is the oldest Dzong to survive as a complete structure with all the historical parts still intact. The Dzong is built over 65 sq ft and has a single entry point. The interior of the Dzong is full of fine religious murals from Buddhism. As the interior fascinates you with its beauty, the exterior also amazes visitors with the beautiful valley view of the entire Paro valley.
Kyichu Lhakhang locally known as the oldest and most lovely temple sited in Lango Gewog of Paro district and is considered a sacred Jewel of Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century. This place houses the original statue of Jowo Shakyamuni according to some philosophers. Also, you can see the mysterious orange tree which bears oranges throughout the year and is believed to have some sort of diving energy in this particular place.
Taktsang Lhakhang is one of those places that you should not miss visiting as it is one of the most prominent and popular Buddhist landmarks in the world. Worldwide known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a Buddhist Monastery in Paro, Bhutan. Perfectly balanced at an altitude of 3120m on a cliff, Paro Taktsang Monastery is nestled in the upper valley of Paro. The word Taktsang stands for Tiger’s nest in the Bhutanese language. This single monument is considered the most exclusive monastery in the world. To reach this one-of-a-kind monastery one has to hike through a dense alpine forest that leads to a rewarding elevation from where you get a panoramic valley view.
What to expect from this 9 day Bhutan tour?
Bhutan also known as ‘’The land of Thunder Dragon’’ is a trip that provides you with the best experience and opportunity to learn about foreign culture, history, century-old parties, and adrenaline-rushing adventure. Throughout a calmative 9 days adventure, you will get to know the generous and warm people of Bhutan and experience a new concept of hospitality. You will visit numerous monuments full of rustic beauty and spiritual mysteries. Understand the importance of sacred places such as Taktsang Lhakhang and other equally important places while soaking in their beauty. This place is perfect for all those travel junkies wanting to try something new and interesting. Bhutan is the ideal place to learn about Buddhist culture as it is a proud Buddhist country.
Along with artificial attractions, Bhutan has untamed nature that includes snow-capped mountain ranges, and celestial valleys where the flora and fauna flourish effortlessly. Bhutan houses remarkable hiking trails that lead to rewarding scenarios that look out of the world. The unique landscapes will captivate you and the peace will relax your anxious heart. Wherever you go you will be surrounded by a clean atmosphere and crisp air as Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world.
As you pay a visit to these incredible places your guide will pass on all the necessary information regarding the location including the do’s and don’ts at the respected places Participate in rituals and traditions if you wish to and get the chance like circumambulation around the religious sites. Everywhere you go you will get a grand view of the surrounding without any interruption as Bhutan rarely has buildings higher than the 6th floor. If you are interested in architecture this is the place for you as the century-old monuments are still standing tall, granting you the opportunity to learn about the art techniques of old Bhutan. You will witness the backbones of all the existing vibrant cultures adored by people from across the globe.
You will get an insight into the revered monasteries, valleys, city areas, and many more while you gather lifetime experience. Try their fiery cuisine as the best way to know one's culture is through food. The national dish of Bhutan is Ema Datshi which you can find almost everywhere in Bhutan. You will go on short hikes in Bhutan to see the incredible monastery seated on top of a hill grading you the best panoramic view of the entire valley. The trip is not finished yet you will connect with people and learn the secrets of being happy. The art of simplicity will melt your heart and teach you about little things while you are on a vacation. End your trip with a traditional hot stone bath to soothe your body and enjoy a traditional dinner with your guide as a farewell before you leave and get back to your usual life. Return home with loads of memories and pictures of this wonderful country.