Highlights of Bhutan: Thimphu & Paro
- Duration
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,319
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Visit one of the world’s smallest and most unusual countries located on the slopes of the Himalayas - amazing scenery, colourful cities and fascinating cultures all on view.
Sandwiched between India, China and Nepal, Bhutan is a unique country and was only opened up to the world at large in the 1970’s so some mystery still clings to it. It is approximately the size of Switzerland with a population somewhere between 650,000 and 1.4 million inhabitants. In other words, no one seems to be exactly sure.
Buddhism permeates Bhutan as can be seen through its monasteries, ubiquitous monks and the Tibetan-style culture which is everywhere. However, it also has some stunning scenery from snow-clad peaks (it is located in the central Himalayas) to wooded valleys, arable grasslands and jungles. The visitor will also marvel at the beautiful and exotic flora and fauna.
On arrival at Paro airport, the afternoon’s sightseeing will include the National Museum of Bhutan and the fortress/monastery of Paro Dzong built in the 10th Century. Afterwards, head for the capital of and largest city in Bhutan, Thimpu. Sightseeing here includes the Chorten Memorial, the most visible landmark in the city with its white wooden structure, golden spires and bells built in 1974 to honor the King.
Time also allows a visit to the NationalHeritageMuseum, the attractive Nunnery and the Handicrafts Emporium which houses textiles, paintings, sculptures, wood carving, sword making and jewellery.
Returning to Paro, a day’s excursion will take you to Takshang also known as the Tiger’s Nest, a highly sacred hermitage located on the face of a 1000 metre/3250 feet high cliff. It is said that the father of Bhutanese Buddhism arrived here on the back of a tiger.
- Duration
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,319
Itinerary View Trip Map
Paro to Thimphu
Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan! You will be met at the Paro airport by your guide. Transfer to Thimpu (1 hour), stopping en-route in the Paro Valley for lunch, and to visit the National Museum and the Paro Dzong. The remainder of the day is free to explore the lively town of Thimphu.
| Meal Plan | Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Namgay Heritage Hotel |
| Location | View map |
-
Namgay Heritage Hotel
Namgay Heritage hotel features 35-quality accommodations. It is ideal for conscious travellers, who may wish to have a feel of traditional Bhutanese and at the same time not compromising with necessary comfort. The hotel also features a religious Altar, two restaurants and a bar, one …
Namgay Heritage hotel features 35-quality accommodations. It is ideal for conscious travellers, who may wish to have a feel of traditional Bhutanese and at the same time not compromising with necessary comfort. The hotel also features a religious Altar, two restaurants and a bar, one of which is devoted to Bhutanese cuisine only.
Modern comfort and traditional Bhutan are not mutually exclusive and Namgay Heritage Hotel takes great pride in that.Facilities
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/ Fitness centre
- Massage Treatments
- Restaurant(s)
- Sauna
- Spa
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Thimphu
A small bustling city in the heart of the Himalayas, Thimphu's charm comes not only from its wealth of museums and places of historic interest, but also from its strong national character. It was once known as the only capital city in the world without traffic lights! Today's sightseeing begins with a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, a restored mid-19th-century house which gives insight into a typical Bhutanese household and lifestyle. Continue to Zorig Chusum (the 'Painting School') and the Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery. After lunch, visit the Memorial Chorten, completed in 1974 as a monument to peace. It houses a number of religious paintings and tantric statues. Make a stop at the Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, then a traditional handmade paper factory. The paper here is made from the bark of the black Daphne tree and you can witness the process from start to finish. In the late afternoon, visit the Trashicho Dzong, an impressive fortress which houses the throne room of the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot of Bhutan and the central monk body. If your visit falls on a working weekday, arrive in time to watch the hoisting of the National Flag and the March of the Guards. Return to your hotel and the evening is at leisure.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Thimphu to Paro
Visit the local market this morning, then proceed to the spectacular Takshang Monastery ('Tiger's Nest'), which clings to a sheer cliff above the Paro Valley. One of the most venerated sacred sites of the Himalayan world, the buildings enshrine a cave where the great saint Guru Rinpoche meditated. Legend says that he flew here from Tibet on the back of a tigress. Enjoy a 4-hour hike with your guide, then continue on to the town of Paro and the remainder of the day is at leisure.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Raven's Nest Resort |
| Location | View map |
-
Raven's Nest Resort
Raven's nest resort is located close to Tiger's Nest in Paro Valley. It has 21 guest rooms with ensuite bathroom. All rooms are provided with complimentary bottled water and coffee or tea makers. Hotels provide smoking and non-smoking rooms.
Raven's nest resort is located close to Tiger's Nest in Paro Valley. It has 21 guest rooms with ensuite bathroom. All rooms are provided with complimentary bottled water and coffee or tea makers. Hotels provide smoking and non-smoking rooms.
Facilities
- 24 hour Front desk
- Business Centre
- Car Services
- Conference Room
- Laundry
- Library
- Luggage Storage
- Massage Facilities
- Outdoor Fish Pond
- Restaurant
- Sauna
- Spa
- Steam Bath
- WiFi
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Depart Paro
This morning, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival and departure airport transfer
- Private transfers and overland travel as per itinerary
- 2 nights first-class accommodations in Thimphu
- 1 night first-class accommodations in Paro
- Private-guided touring including entrance fees as per itinerary with English-speaking guide
- Bhutan Visa Fee
- Bhutan Government Tourism Fee
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 3 lunches, 3 dinners
PRICE EXLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
24 May 2022
