A quick escape to the last Shangri-La on earth. This trip is specially designed to provide you with a lifetime experience in the land of Thunder Dragon. As beautiful as it sounds this country truly stands on its statement. The charm this country holds is different and unique from the rest of the world. This small Himalayan kingdom is awash with spirited Buddhist culture. Bhutan is a striking place full of magic and myth, a lush Himalayan nation bounded by a wealth of natural beauty. Through our Short Bhutan tour, you will get a golden opportunity to explore Bhutan's unbelievable landscapes and unshakeable culture in comfort on an isolated Bhutan quest. Bhutan is one of the countries that encourages its citizens to protect its culture along with nature which you will witness during your excursion to Bhutan.
This last remaining Himalayan Kingdom proudly boasts its spectacular mountain backdrop, wonderful architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Bhutan is a diverse natural paradise, the country provides overwhelming variations of landforms. Not only is this incredible place rich in history, but it is also rich in an array of flora and fauna. Set within one of the world's most breathtaking endless mountain ranges, it is admired for cultural sightseeing and adrenaline-rushing trekking and hiking opportunities. The land of Thunder Dragon is mysterious and wrapped in spellbinding myths, and Bhutan is infused with a palpable illustration of miraculous culture.
From the dazzling architecture of its mountain fortress, monasteries, and Dzongs to the fascinating century-old figurines of Buddhist religious idols are the perfect example of its extraordinary culture. The places these amazing attractions are located will surely drop your jaws as some of the monasteries are nestled on top of hills dramatically pressed and sited on the cliff floor. Dancing prayer flags on the rhythm of people's hearts and calm wind in the panoramic mountain passes will forever be successful in grabbing the attention of the visitors. The complex traditional designs chiseled both in the monasteries and the exterior and interior of the temple and monasteries are great examples of traditional designs and architecture.
Blessed with a dramatic range of natural habitats, from semitropical lush valleys to alpine mountaintops all in just 38,394 km square, considering it is home to a wide range of awe-inspiring bird species and out-of-the-ordinary wildlife. The unique wildlife includes some of the most fascinating and beautiful creatures such as Tigers, snow Leopards, red Pandas, Himalayan Musk deer and the national animal of Bhutan i,e Takin. Likewise, Bhutan is a wonderland if you are interested in birdwatching as this place has an extensive variety of birds some of the most adored birds are the Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Black-necked crane, White-bellied Heron, Rufous-necked Hornbill and many more.
Undeniably, one of the most festival-loving people is in Bhutan. South Asia has colorful culture like no other and Bhutan is the perfect example of that. They celebrate fascinating festivals throughout the year. Festivals in Bhutan are something else packed with vibrant colors infused with century-old tradition and folklore, making this tour package ideal for everyone.
Bhutan Tourist Attractions
Bhutan is loaded with historical monuments and iconic landmarks which are engraved with rich history and culture. Bhutan is filled with appreciable examples of its exceptional culture and deep-rooted tradition. From the impressive architecture of its mountain fortress and religious monasteries to the image of Buddhist religious figures painted or sculpted onto the walls of century-old landmarks is a striking example of the rich cultured country of Bhutan. Here are some of the most iconic and renowned sites present in Bhutan that you will explore during your sightseeing programs.
National Memorial Chorten is a renowned one of the honored attractions of Bhutan. This particular architecture itself is the memorial Chorten of the third Dragon king of Bhutan. This tranquil stupa-like structure is also known as the Thimphu Chorten as it lies in the southern-central part of Thimphu city. This place gives you an amazing opportunity to learn about the life of third Dragon king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (reigned 1952-72) along with the deep and peaceful Buddhist philosophy. The simple-looking yet complexly carved pinnacle will fascinate you with its beauty with mesmerizing statues and paintings inside the memorial Chorten will not fail to surprise you.
Simtokha Dzong or Sangkak Zabdhon Phodrang simply translates to the “Palace of the profound meaning of secret Mantras’’. Although there are numerous Dzongs in Bhutan Simtokha holds the first place since it is believed to be the first-ever Dzong built in Bhutan. Also, these baffling places have their myths and mysteries and it is said that this Dzong was built on the stomach of a demoness who spread illness in that region. Besides the curious stories and myths, these culturally rich structures hold the true beauty inside the building. Inside the building, you can see colorful religious murals all over the walls portraying some parts of the Buddha's life journey.
Tashichho Dzong
Tashichho Dzong also called the ‘’Fortress of Auspicious Doctrine’’and popularly known as the Thimphu Dzong. This distinctive landmark is situated along the Wan Chu river banks. The eye-pleasing white-washed walls and attention-grabbing red roofs captivate the minds of many travelers visiting Thimphu. For people who wish to see the early-era Bhutanese infrastructure while getting insight into the philosophy of Lho- Drukpa sect Buddhism this is the place for it. This building not only has historical importance but also holds political significance as this wonderful landmark houses the throne room of the current king along with other important personnel of the country. An interesting fact about this place is that the Tashichho Dzong was the site where the 5th king of Bhutan was crowned in 2008.
Kuensel Phodrang, otherwise called the Buddha point, situated at an elevation of 2655 m. The word Kuensel translates to clarity in the native language as this place grants the clearest view of the city followed by the lush green valley. Kuensel or Buddha’s Point is the most visible tourist destination seen from Thimphu. Another amazing fact about this attraction is the giant statue is 167 feet tall and houses temples inside it. It only takes 15 min by the drive to reach this fascinating spot from the center of the city.
Changangkha Lhakhang is a compact temple complex located on the tip of a ridge that juts towards central Thimphu from the hills to the east. It was built in the 13th to 14th century according to the history of Bhutan. The building is engraved with intricate woodwork all over the building and once inside the temple you will see the gorgeous statue of the deity Tara/Chenrezig/Avalokiteswara. This statue has 11-headed thousand hands which is known to be a wonderful manifestation. The Kora (Circumambulation around the religious sites) around the place gives an amazing view of the entire place.
Motithang Takin Preserve
Motithang Takin Preserve is located in the Motithang district of Thimphu. The name of this place and the attraction translates to it as the preservation area for the national animal of Bhutan which is a Takin. Takins are goat-like antelopes found in steep, dense woodlands of the eastern Himalayas. The takin preserve is located 15 mins north west from the Thimphu city center. Along with these majestic animals, you can also get stunning drops back of the Thimphu valley on clear days. The best time to visit this preserve is at feeding time as the animals are closer to the bars where you can see them closely.
Zilukha Nunnery is a small Monterey that was built more than half a century ago. This peaceful Nunney is situated on the golf course of the main city. Locally known as Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery represents the merging of Bhutan’s spiritual past. Once at the tranquil premises you will hear the chanting and prayers of the monks who reside at the nunnery. This place has a population of 60-70 nuns who have devoted their lives to learning the teaching and the century-old traditions of Bhutan. A visit to this place is incomplete without tuning the prayer wheels and going around the religious site.
Rinpung Dzong is a dramatic fortress-like Buddhist monastery located on a hill of Paro valley giving you a majestic and royal impression. It is also sometimes referred to as the Paro Dzong. Besides the beauty, the place houses the district Monastic body as well as government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag (the official language of Bhutan). This stunning Buddhist monastery is also called the fortress of the heap of jewels. Once at the place, you will get the most amazing view of the following valley and all the agricultural plains which will declare peace in your mind.
Taktsang Lhakhang
Taktsang Lhakhang popularly known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery balanced on a breathtaking cliff. It is a sacred Vajrayana Himalayan Buddhist monastery aggressively pinned on the wall of the cliff making it the most iconic and thrilling monastery on earth. This religious site is only accessible through a serene hike as this place is on top of the upper Paro valley. This place fascinates people with its architecture and the panoramic view but few people know about its history. This place has a peculiar history as it is believed that one of the great Buddhist spiritual leaders Guru Rinpoche was carried from Tibet to this location on the back of a tigress, hence the given name Tiger's Nest.
Kyichu Lhakhang also called Kyichu Temple or Lho Kyerchu is situated in Lango Gewog of Paro district. It is considered one of the holiest shrines which are two twin monasteries. The walkway that secures the temple is surrounded by several fruiting trees and prayer wheels. Kyichu Lhakhang is also one of the oldest monuments as it was built in the 7th century overnight and later on, they constructed a similar temple beside it hence there are two identical temples. After you explore the exterior things to see inside are the 5m high statue of Guru Rinpoche and Gautam Buddha and outside the temple a bizarre orange tree that produces oranges throughout the year.
What to expect from a Short Bhutan Tour?
Bhutan, as many people may know, is a country with a different name ‘’Land of Thunder Dragon’’. The Bhutanese call themselves ‘’Drukpa’’ meaning the Dragon people and the happiest citizen of the happiest country. Over the course of a hypnotic 4 days adventure, you will get to know the generous and warm people of Bhutan. During your short Bhutan tour explore the numerous sacred sites significant to the Buddhist religions such as the Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest monastery). If you are a travel junkie then Bhutan is the ideal place to explore a new culture, traditions, and mesmerizing landscapes along with a breathtaking view of the valleys along with the endless mountain chain.
As you fly over this county you will be greeted by the greenery all over the place as the plane skillfully makes small turns beside the hills under the thin blanket of clouds. As soon as you set foot in Bhutan you will see the pristine nature before your eyes. Start inhaling the fresh air and pump crisp air into your lungs. After you finish with your airport formality you will be greeted by a licensed tour guide dressed beautifully in a traditional garment who will accompany you throughout your travel journey in Bhutan. Considering your short tour you will visit some of the prominent religious sites along with historical landmarks with dead drop backgrounds. Get a taste of fiery Bhutanese cuisine while you go out for cultural sightseeing.
Explore the backbones of the century-old culture and traditions in the forms of monasteries and iconic heritage sites. You will witness the extraordinary beauty cloaked in authentic Bhutanese art in the forms of wood carvings and architectural designs all over the monuments. As you pay a visit to these incredible places your guide will pass on all the necessary information regarding the location including the dos and don’ts. Participate in rituals and traditions if you wish to and get the chance. 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. Feast your eyes on the glorious views and ears with the hypnotizing voice of monks chanting the mantras in the religious sites.
To end your tour, get a thrilling experience on the hiking trails of Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest Monastery). This is the by far most admired hike of all time where you walk through dense alpine forests. As you get closer to your destination you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire Paro valley along with the iconic monastery dazzling on top of a cliff floor. The electrifying view will pump you up and rush your adrenaline. Have beautiful pictures with mind-blowing scenarios. End your day with a relaxing traditional hot stone bath before you say goodbye to this mysterious land. The experience you gain here will overwhelm you with its celestial beauty, generous people, and mind-boggling tradition and myths.
Truly, there's no other place like Bhutan when it comes to mysterious myths, art, and beliefs. You will leave this country admiring the beauty of simplicity, and the never-ending culture that has been passed down from generation to generation and an experience of a lifetime.