6 Days 5Nights Culture Bhutan Tour-2 in Thimphu & 3 in Paro

Head Office (Bhutan) - (+975)- 17172455-17111477; Australia - 1-800-245-340; UK - 0-808-189-1372; USA - 1-888-

939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808

International Bhutan Travel Services/Bhutan Trip Advisor/Yetis & Dragons

Unit of BhutanTravelAgency.com

Address : Flat # 1, First Floor, Chapcha Engineer Building PO # 1574 Thimpu, Bhutan

Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477

Email : [email protected]

Website : www.BhutanTravelAgency.com

Tourism Council of Bhutan License Number: 1024793 -1027068

Bhutan Trip plan

Trip Length: 5 Nights / 6 Days

BhutanTravelAgency.com: BhutanTravelAgency.com is a leading, Bhutan tour operator who

knows Bhutan better than any other institution or individual with more than a decade of rich

experience in providing Bhutan tours and Bhutan travel services across Bhutan. In regards with

our company, well by now we have assisted over 30000 Bhutan tours, and that makes us one the

biggest Travel Company dealing in Bhutan Tourism.

We are also very widely covered in international media and few links to the same are available at

http://www.bhutantravelagency.com/bhutantravelagencyinnews.html . We are registered in

various countries under various names, International Bhutan Travel Services & Bhutan Trip

Advisor in Bhutan, Yetis and Dragons in India, Nepal and Thailand though all our publications

are under the name of BhutanTravelAgency.com

Package includes:-

Hotel stay

Meals (as per the package)

Entire day long car(Sedan/SUV) availability with a driver

Entire day long presence of a certified guide (English speaking) to take your around.

All monuments Fees

All Royalties and other taxes (If applicable)

Day 01

Arrive Paro - Thimphu

After arriving & visa formalities and collection of baggage, you will be welcomed by our tour representative who will be your tour guide during your entire trip in Bhutan.


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




Check into your hotel in Thimphu. Free until lunch time for some rest from early morning flight,

refreshment and lunch.

Afternoon, you will have a choice to visit all or any the following places:-

Tashichho dzong

The Tashichho Dzong is a Buddhist monastery cum fortress at the northern edge of Thimpu the

capital city of Bhutan. The Dzong was built on the western bank of the river Wang Chu, and has

historically served at the seat of the DrukDesi or the Dharma Raja of Bhutans government. After the kings assumed power in 1907 this post was combined with that of the king and Thimphu

severed as the summer caital of the kingdom before becoming the full time capital of Bhutan.

The original Thimphu Dzong (the Dho-Ngyen Dzong) is said to have been constructed in 1216

by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. And was later taken over by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo before

the Dzong was conquered by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who found the Dzong to be too

small and expanded it to what is now known as theTashichho dzong is also called the "fortress of

glorious religion." It was erected in 1641 and was subsequently rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji

Wangchuck in the 1960s.

The Dzong has been seat of the Royal government since 1952 and presently houses the Throne

room and the Kings secretariat. The Tashichho dzong is also home to several ministries of the

Bhutanese government, and the Central Monk Body which is the apex organization of the

country's main spiritual order. The monument welcomes visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu

festival which is held in autumn each year. The Dzongs main structure is a two striped

quadrangle with 3 storied towers on each of its four corners

Folk Heritage Museum.

Tashichho dzong

Tashichho dzong


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




The folk heritage museum was open to the general public in 2001 upon completion. It treasures

troves of culture and rich Bhutanese heritage provide rich insights into the Bhutanese ethos. Try

to schedule your visit during the morning hours since the museum is less crowded at that time

and there is plenty of sunlight to go around.

The folk heritage museum is housed in a replica traditional Bhutanese house learn first-hand

about Bhutans rich cultural traditions, its deeply rooted heritage which spans thousands of years and the Bhutanese way of life. The tour of this almost living museum will also give you a

glimpse onto how many rural folk of the country live today following the ancient Bhutanese

ways.

National textile museums:

The second important Museum that also opened its doors in 2001 is the National Textile

Museum of Bhutan. During a trip to this museum you will get an up close and personal

experience of the living national art of weaving. The changing exhibitions at the museum will

introduce you to the major weaving techniques that the weavers employ to make these beautiful

fabrics. It also gives you a chance to see the various styles of dressing of the men and women

from different parts of Bhutan. The museums exhibits follow 6 major themes :

Wrap Pattern Weaves

Weft Pattern Weaves

Role of Textile in Bhuddism

Historical achievements in textile

Textiles made from different indigenous fibers

The royal textile collection.

National memorial chorten The National Memorial was built by Bhutan's third king, H.M. Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who is

also known as the "father of modern Bhutan." He wanted to erect a monument carrying the

message of world peace and prosperity. However, he was unable to give shape to his idea in his

lifetime due to pressures of state and other regal responsibilities. After his untimely demise in

1972, the Royal Family and Cabinet resolved to fulfill his wishes and erect a memorial that

Folk heritage museum

National textile museums


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




would perpetuate his memory and also serve as a monument to eternal peace, harmony and

tranquility.

The National Memorial Chorten was gifted to the nation on 28 July, 1974. The exquisite wall

paintings and the delicately carved statues reflect deep insights into Buddhist spirituality and a

rich tradition of prayer and learning.

The National Memorial Chorten is known as the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan.

The Chorten was consecrated by His Holiness, the Late Dudjorn Rinpoche. Unlike other Stupas

the Chorten is not a shrine for the mortal of the late King. The Chorten on contains a photograph

of the King in full ceremonial attire. The King had intend for the Choten to be a Chorten that represents the mind of Bhuddha

The national Memorial Chorten is located in the center of the capital city, Thimphu and is

designed like a Tibetan style Chorten. The Chorten is patterned of the classical Stupa design with

a pyramidal pillar crowned by a crescent moon and sun. One of the most distinct features of the

Chorten is its outwards flaring rounded part that makes the Chorten look more like a vase rather

than the classical dome. The interior of the Chorten has a large number of paintings of Tantric

deities, in explicit sexual poses that sometimes can be a little disconcerting to visitors.

Overnight in a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 02: Thimphu (Sightseeing)

Early morning after breakfast you will be having a choice to visit all or any of the following

places to see in and around Thimphu:-

National institute of zorig chusum

National Memorial Chorten

National Memorial Chorten


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




The art and crafts currently taught in Bhutan, were introduced to the country in the 15th century

by Trenton Pema Lingpa. Trenton Pema Lingpa also known as the Great Treasure National

Institute for Zorig Chusum - Discoverer is credited to have introduced these art forms to the

people of Bhutan. These traditional crafts are a

representation of the centuries of knowledge and

ability that was been handed down to master

craftsmen and artisan through each generation.

Bhutans unique artistic tradition has played a vital role in shaping the countries distinct culture and

heritage.

It was realized that this unique and priceless heritage

of the nation need to be protected and promoted with

the strong patronage of the royal government. With

this vision in mind the royal institute for Zoring

Chusum was established in the year 1971 to train the

youth in the 13 traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan.

The institute now falls under the aegis of the National Technical Training Authority which was

established in 1990 to ensure high quality vocational training for the people of the country. The

institute has now been operational for almost 40 years and has taught students the arts of

painting, embroidery, calligraphy, sculpting and wood carving.

National library

Bhutan's National Library was established in the 1967. Its mission is to preserve the literary

treasures of the nation which constitute a significant element of Bhutan's rich and vibrant cultural

heritage. The library was established with a small collection of precious texts, National library

Thimphu Bhutan and was housed in the central tower of the Tashicho Dzhong. The collection

then moved to the its present building located in the Changgandkha area of Thimphu. The

building that houses the collection is traditionally constructed four storied eight cornered

building that is a homage to the central tower temple

located in Bhutanese Dzhongs.

It houses an extensive collection and archive of Buddhist

literary works mostly in ancient block-printed format, with

some manuscripts several hundred years old. This

collection, which is also known as the "Choekey

Collection," mainly comprises Buddhist literature written

in Choekey, the religious script of Northern Buddhism. It

also includes works written both in Tibetan and in

Dzongkha, Bhutan's national language. There is also a

foreign literature collection which comprises works written

in English with subject interest on Buddhist studies,

Bhutan, the Himalayan region and neighboring countries

National institute of zorig chusum

National library


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




like India, Myanmar and Sri Lanka where the Buddhist religion is also practiced.

Kuensel phodrang

The Kuensel Phodrang or the Buddha point is the worlds largest sitting Buddha statue, the statue is 167 feet high. The statue is situated on top of a hill overlooking the city of Timphu, it can be

accessed by road and is about 15 minutes away from the citys center. The word Kuensel means everything is clear and from this place you will sure enjoy a great view of the Thimphu Valley

on both sides. The statute will house a temple inside it, the statue and its adjoining car park and

recreational center are currently under construction and is expected to be ready by December

2012. The statue is constructed out of bronze and is studded with many semi-precious stones.

Since they are no factories in country that can make such a large bronze cast structure, statute is

being manufactured in China and the pieces are brought to Bhutan and are assembled here. On

the drive to the statue the steep winding hill road offers an unparalleled view of the city of

Thimphu and is an excellent place to capture a view of the city especially after dark. A journalist

once described the view as seeing an osasis of light in the desert of darkness as the city light of Thimphu shine very bright in an otherwise dark Thimphu valley.

Motithang takin preserve

The Motithang Takin Preserve also known as the Thimphu Zoo by many is a small natural

preserve for the Takin Bhutans national animal. It was originally a mini zoo, but it was converted in a preserve later on as the Takin.

The mini zoo contained a small number of Takin but the King of Bhutan later decreed that it was

improper for a Buddhist nation to keep an animal in captivity. The animals were set free and the

zoo was shut down, but for some reason the Takin refused to leave the area for the forests

nearby. Instead the animals were frequesntly found roaming around the streets of the capital city

in search for food. As a result the government decided to demarcate an 8 acre fenced location as

the Motithang Takin Preserve. The preserve is a forested preserve that mimics the Takins natural habitat, in addition to the Takin there are a few musk deer and barking deer that live

Kuensel phodrang

Takin


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




inside the preserve. There are plans to expand the preserves collection to include other rarely

seen animals that live in Bhutan, currently the preserve plans to add the Red Panda and the

Himalayan Serow to the preserve.

Changangkha lhakhang

The Chagkha Lhakahng temple is a early medieval Buddhist temple in the capital city Thimphu.

The temple is situated on a ridge overlooking the city, near Mohitang on the outskirts of

Thimphu. The temple is the oldest temple in Thimphu and was constructed by Lama Phajo

Drukgom Zhigpo in the 12 century AD. Lama Phajo Drukgom Zhigpo is also the founder of the

Drukpa Kaygo School of Buddhism. The Lhakhangs central deity is Chenirizig. There is a large statue of Chenrizig, the 11 headed, thousand arm manifestation of Avolokiteshwara. The prayer

books in the temple are larger in size compared to the usual Buddhist texts. There are also large

prayer wheels and paintings in the walls of the temple. The temple offers an excellent view of the

city of Thimphu from its courtyard.

Jungshi handmade paper factory

The Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory is a small paper factory located in Thimphu that produces

paper using traditional Bhutanese methods. The paper products produced at the factory are made

from Daphne or Mulberry plant bark. On you visit to the factory you will see the process from

the beginning to the end. The process starts with people pulling the bark off the plant to the

process of cooking to create wood pulp to the creation of the final product. There is a small shop

at the factory that sells a variety of paper and stationary that is produced from paper made here.

National handicrafts emporium

The National Handcrafts Emporium is a state run Handicrafts showroom in 4 different cities of

bhutan. The emporium is run by the National Womans Association of Bhutan as a Non-Government Organization that is run under the royal supervision of Her Royal Highness Ashi

Sonam Choden Wangchuk.

Changangkha Lhakhang

Jungshi Handmade Paperfactory


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




The Handicrafts Emporium showcases the finest handicrafts of the country and supports one of

Bhutans most important income generating activities. The lack of an organized handicrafts industry in Bhutan is one of the biggest concerns of the organization running the Emporium as

they strive to create some form of organization in this otherwise unorganized sector.

The products on sale at the emporium include; locally manufactured hand woven fabrics,

wooden masks, cane and bamboo products, traditional wooden utensils such as cups and bowls,

handmade paper, statuettes, prayer wheels etc. Most of the goods are manufactured in the winter

months, since business is slow for farmers in the winter months many families turn to the

production of handicrafts goods to supplement their income during the lean winters. Apart from

its central branch in Thimphu the emporium has now opened its doors in 3 more locations

including one at the Paro International Airport, Bumthang and the Rural Handicrafts Sales

Centre at Tashigang. The Rural Handicrafts Sales Center is known as a good place to pick up

woven kiras, table runners and scarves, particularly if you cant make it to the weaving centre in Khaling. Kiras arent cheap (Nu 4000 to 16,000) but do keep in mind that an elaborate piece can take up to six months to create.

National institute of traditional medicine services

The National Institute of Traditional Medicine or the Institute of Traditional Medicine Services

is located in the capital city Thimphu. The Institute is situated on a hilltop above the Traditional

Arts Center and the National Library of Bhutan. The King directed the Bhutanese Department of

Health to establish a traditional medicine system for the welfare of the people of Bhutan and

preserve the traditional Bhutanese methods of treatment. An Indigenous Dispensary was opened on 28 June 1968 at Dechencholing in Thimphu, staffed by doctors who were trained in

Tibet, which later relocated to present location in Thimphu. The relocated Indigenous Dispensary was renamed the National Indigenous Hospital and then later the National Institute of Traditional Medicine. Finally in 1998 the institute was upgraded the Institute of Traditional

Medicine Services (ITMS).

National Handicrafts Emporium

National institute of traditional medicine

services


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




Traditional Medicine in Bhutan dates back to the 17th Century to the times of Shabdrung

Nagwang Namgyal. Traditional medicine in Bhutan can trace its roots back to Tibet, but ever

since it came to Bhutan, Bhutanese traditional medicine evolved and developed completely

independent of its Tibetan Ancestors.

The institute produces tradition remedies in laboratories from minerals, animal parts, precious

metals, gems and plants. Over 40,000 patients are treated annually at the hospital

The institute has a training wing that trains people in traditional medicine. There is a 5 year

bachelors degree course for people who want to become physicians and a three year course in nursing.

Later after visiting all these places mention above you will now go and explore Weekend

market The weekend market is highly recommended to travelers who want to experience the local

Bhutanese way of life. The weekend market is located in a set of stall of both side of the Wang

Chhu River. The market essentially is a farmers market, where every week vendors from

throughout the region start arriving by Thursday evening and stay at the market till Sunday. It is

interesting to see the well-heeled and well to do residents of the city jostle with the common folk

for the freshest produce of the region.

Depending on the season you will find different kinds of fruits and vegetables available in the

market. The most striking feature of the market is the chilli stalls that sell chilli in its fresh or dry

from. Chili is the favorite spice of the Bhutanese and no Bhutanese dish is complete without a

generous garnish of the fiery chilli.

Across on the western banks of the river, the Kundeyling Bazaam houses collections of shops

and stalls that sell textile, clothing, handicrafts, and other goods that the locals may need. You

will also find a lot of cheap ornamental goods on sale that have been imported from Nepal it is

advisable to visit the market with a guide who can help you hunt for a good bargain.

Weekend Market

Weekend Market


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




Overnight in a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu-Dochula Pass- Paro

Post breakfast you will be heading towards Dochula Pass and later will be going to paro. On the

way to Dochula Pass you will visit the first Dzong of Bhutan i.e

Simtokha dzong

The Simtokha Dzong is a small Dzong located approximately 5 kilometers south of Thimphu.

The Dzong is officially called the Sangak Zabhon Phodrang which roughly translates to the

Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras. The Simthoka Dzhong is said the be the first

fortress to have been built by the legendary Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in Bhutan. The

fortress was constructed in the year 1629. Some suggest the Dzong is the oldest surviving

complete Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong is currently home to the Institue for Languages and

Cultural Studies which is attended by monks and common people alike. The site of the Dzong is

said to have been built over a site where a demon had disappeared in to the rocks nearby. The

site of the

Dzong is located very strategically at a point from where the Dzong can protect the Thimphu

Valley and also protects the valley that leads to the Dochu La pass and onwards to Eastern

Bhutan.

The Dzong was attacked during its construction by the Tibetans and a group of Bhutanese Lamas

who were against Shabdrung. Even though the initial attack failed the Dzong was subsequently

conquered in 1630. After a few failed attepmpts the Shabdrung regained control over the Dzong

when the Dzongs main building caught fire and its roof collapsed on its occupiers killing them

all.

Later, we will stop over for tea at Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where on a sunny day, you can get

stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. The Dochu La Pass is probably the best known

Simtokha Dzong

Simtokha Dzong


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




mountain pass in Bhutan. Located at an altitude of 3150 meter above sea level, the Dochu La

Pass is about 30 kilometer away from the capital city Thimphu and the road to Punakha.

On a clear day the pass offers visitors a spectacular view of the majestic eastern Himalayan

Ranges. A cup of hot coffee or tea at the pass has almost become part of tradition for people

travelling to and fro from Punakha to the capital city.

There is a small cafeteria at the pass that offers a chance for travelers to enjoy a hot beverage or a

snack, it is located just off the road and overlooks the pass and is an ideal place to sit back, relax

and enjoy the view. Another striking feature at the pass is the 108 Druk Wangyal Khangzang

Chortens that were built for the well-being of all sentiment beings on earth. The 108 Chorten

were built as a tribute to the Kings of Bhutan for their selfless service and leadership they offer

to the people of Bhutan. These Stupas or Chortens also represent the peoples love, appreciation

and loyalty towards the countrys King.

After that you will be driven towards Paro. Later when you reach Paro you will go for

sightseeing in and around Paro:-

Ta Dzong (National Museum)

The National Museum of Bhutan is housed inside the six storied circular Ta Dzhong. The Ta

Dzong is a medieval watch tower situated above the Rimpung Dzong. The Ta Dzong was

constructed in 1656 with a purpose to give advance warning to the Paro Dzong in case of an

approaching army, in fact the word Ta means 'to see' in Dzongkha. The future first king was

imprisoned here for a brief period in 1872. In 1968 the Ta Dzong was converted into the

National Museum of Bhutan. The Museum houses a priceless collection of textile, costumes,

paintings, appliqu, wooden handicrafts, weapons, armour and jewellery. There is a small section

dedicated to the natural history of Bhutan. There is a small chapel on the top of the building with

icons representing Himalayan Buddhist traditions.

Rimpung Dzong

Dochula pass

Dochula pass


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




The Paro Dzhong is probably Bhutan's best known and most iconic Dzong. This is probably the

first building you will notice when you land at Paro International Airport and will probably be

your first memory of Bhutan.

The imposing Dzong is perhaps the finest example of Dzong architecture existing the world

today, the massive buttered walls of the fortress dominates over the valley. The Rinpung Dzong's

name translates to the "Fortress on a heap of Jewels ".

The fortress was constructed in 1644 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on the foundations of an

ancient monastery. The fort played a crucial role in the history of the Paro valley as the Dzong

helped keep the marauding Tibetans away from the Paro valley.

The Dzong was hit by an earthquake in 1897 but survived unharmed, but a fire in 1907 ended up

causing severe damage to the Dzong.

The Dzong is built on a steep hill along the banks of the Paro Chu River. The front part of the

Dzong is home to the District administration while the other courtyard towards the rare houses

the district monk body.

The approach toward the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called the NemiZam. A

paved stone path runs alongside the imposing outer walls of the structure. The valley's annual

springtime religious festival called the Paro Tsechu is organized each year in the courtyard of the

dzong and is attended by tourists from all over the world.

Kyichu Lhakhang

The Jowo Temple of Kyichu is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. The temple was built by the

Tibetan King Songsten Gampo in the 7th Century AD. The Kyichu Lhakhang was one of the 108

temples constructed by him to subdue a demon that was terrorizing the people of the Himalayas.

The temple is believed to have been visited by the Guru Rinpoche in the 8th Century during his

Rinpung Dzong during day

Rinpung Dzong during night


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




visit to the Paro Valley. Other important personalities to have visited the temple in antiquity

include Lam Kha Nga and the Phajo Dugom Zhigpo.

The Lhakahng underwent many extensions during the ages with the last one being carried out in

1965 by the Queen Mother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck. She added another new structure

to the temple called the Guru Lhakahng. As one of the oldest Lhakahangs, it houses many

important relics. One of the most important relics of the temple is a 7th century statue of Jowo

Sakyamuni which is believed to have cast at the same time as it famous counterpart in Lhasa

Tibet.

There are 2 orange trees located in the courtyard of the temple; there is a belief amongst the

locals that these orange trees bear fruit all year long. This site is one of the most sacred holy sites

is all of Bhutan, and our companies travel consultants recommend every traveller to visit this

sacred temple.


The National Handcrafts Emporium is a state run Handicrafts showroom in 4 different cities of

Bhutan. The emporium is run by the National Womans Association of Bhutan as a Non-Government Organization that is run under the royal supervision of Her Royal Highness Ashi

Sonam Choden Wangchuk.

The Handicrafts Emporium is a showcase the finest handicrafts of the country and supports one

of Bhutans most important income generating activities. The lack of an organized handicrafts industry in Bhutan is one of the biggest concerns of the organization running the Emporium as

they strive to create some form of organization in this otherwise unorganized sector. The

products on sale at the emporium include; locally manufactured hand woven fabrics, wooden

masks, cane and bamboo products, traditional wooden utensils such as cups and bowls,

handmade paper, statuettes, prayer wheels etc. most of the good are manufactured in the winter

months, since business is slow for farmers in the winter months many families turn to the

production of handicrafts goods to supplement their income during the lean winters. Apart from

its central branch in Thimphu the emporium has now opened its doors in 3 more locations

including one at the Paro International Airport, Bumthang and the Rural Handicrafts Sales

Centre at Tashigang. The Rural Handicrafts Sales Center is known as a good place to pick up

Kyichu Lhakhang



939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




woven kiras, table runners and scarves, particularly if you cant make it to the weaving center in Khaling. Kiras arent cheap (Nu 4000 to 16,000) but do keep in mind that an elaborate piece can take up to six months to create.

Overnight in a hotel in Paro.

Day 04: Paro

After breakfast, we will take you for a morning hike up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as

Tigers Nest. Hanging precariously and magically from a rather steep cliff, the Taktshang monastery is a monument of genuine pride for the Bhutanese nation. It defies architectural

principles to the core and amazes tourists from around the world.

It is a sight to behold. Taktshang or the Tigers lair as the monastery is called, it is widely

regarded is one of the most important monuments of spiritual significance in Bhutan. Its history

is deeply associated with the visit of Guru Padmasambhava, the revered Indian saint who came

to Bhutan in the 8th century AD.

The cave was named Taktshang after Guru Rinpoche flew into the cave from Kurtoe Singye

Dzong in eastern Bhutan while riding on a tigress. When he landed in the cave, he took the

wrathful form of Guru Dorji Drolo who is regarded as one of the eight manifestations of Guru

Rinpoche to decimate the demons. Several saints have chosen this sanctuary to pray and meditate

in solitude. The monastery was built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye who is said to be one of

the reincarnations of Guru Rinpoche. The Monastery consists of four main temples along with

their residences that are constructed along the rock ledge. There 8 caves in total out of which 4

are relatively easy to access.

The monastery was ravaged by fire twice in the 1900s first in 1951 and later the fire of 1998,

which nearly destroyed the monastery completely. The government then undertook a

Tiger Nest

Tiger Nest


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




comprehensive reconstruction in 200 with funding from foreign donors. The monastery was

recreated to its original splendor and re-opened to the public shortly thereafter.

From the road, the hike toward Taktshang follows an uphill route and takes approximately 3-4

hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day. We recommend that you carry sunscreen

lotion, large quantities of drinking water, a walking stick just in case you need to shoo of the

birds and a hat to further protect yourself from the sun.

Later after the hike you will be visiting:-

Druk choeding

Druk Choeding is also known as Tshongdoe Naktshang. The temple was built by Ngawang

Chhogyel, who was a prince of Ralung and the ancestor of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, in

1525.

In the temple, visitors will find a statue of the Future Buddha known as Jampa in the seated

position. There is also an image of the deity known as Gyenyen who is the protector of Bhutan.

Gyenyen is surrounded by a collection of ancient swords, shields and other weaponry.

Dumtse lhakang

The Dumtse lhakhang Temple is located just north of the city of Paro. The Dumtse Lhabhang

temple is very unique in its design as its designed like a Chorten (Stupa), which is highly unlike any guide other Lhakhang / temple in Bhutan. The Temple was built in the 1443 AD by

Thantong Gyalpo, known as the iron bridge builder in Bhutanese legend. The Dumatse

Lhakhang is built over 3 levels that represent the 3 spiritual realms of earth i.e. Hell, Earth and

Heaven. The walls of the Dumtse Lhakhang are decorated in beautiful hand-painted murals that

depict these 3 realms of earth. These beautiful murals are regarded as some of the finest

examples of Bhutanese art in the country.

Druk Choeding

Dumtse Lhakhang


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




To visit the Dumtse Lhakahng tourists require a special permit that has to be obtained in

advance, we recommend that you ask your Bhutan Travel Agent to apply for the same if you

wish to visit the temple before you depart from your home country. Another thing that

BhutanTravelAgency.com recommends is that you must carry a flashlight with you while

visiting the temple. The inner reaches of the temple are very dark and only illuminated by a few

butter lamps and the odd small window.

In evening we will visit local market of Paro and overnight in a hotel in Paro.

Day 05 Paro- Haa Valley

Early morning after breakfast you will be driven towards Haa valley

The pristine and picturesque Haa valley is located about 3 hours west of Paro. The Drive from

Paro to Haa valley takes you up to the Chele-La pass which is located at a height of about 3800

meters. Make sure you ask you drive to stop the car here so you can enjoy a beautiful view of

Bhutans 2 highest and best known peaks the Jichu Drake and Mount Jumolhari, some times of a clear day you might be able to catch a glimpse of Mount Kunchenchunga the 3rd highest

mountain in the world from this view point. From there we

will descend down into the Haa Valley down to the town

of Ha.

The haa valley till recently was closed off for tourists and

even today people of the valley live in a manner not very

dissimilar from a time long ago. The Haa valley is one of

the most isolated and least populous districts of the

country. The Haa valley is also home to a Indian army

base that helps protect the border of Bhutan from Chinese

incursions. There are many small temples and monasteries

in the district with the most important being the Lhakhang

Karpo( White Temple) and the Lhakhang Nagpo ( Black

Temple). The Lhakahng Nagpos central shine is said to be identical to the central shrine of the Jowo Temple in Lhasa, Tibet. Legend has it that the Karpo temple was constructed along with

the assistance of the Local deities, as a result of this divine intervention they started to be known

as the Hay (Surprises in Dzhongkha) and later on Haa. After spending the day in the valley we

will return back to Paro for the night since there are no hotels of note in the valley.

Kila Gompa

The Kila Gompa or the Chele la gompa is a group of 7 temples and a number of retreats built

into the face of a 3500 meter cliff. The Nunnery is home to about 70 nuns who live in complete

isolation and devoting themselves to Buddhism and other spiritual studies associated with the

religion. The Gompa can be accessed by undertaking a one hour hike from the nearest road

headn that is the Chele la Pass. The pass is about 1.5 hours away from the town of Paro, once

Haa valley


939-8808; India - 1800-103-8808




Phone No : +975-17172455 / 17111477




you reach the pass you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt Jomohari and Jichu Drake. The Jele

Dzhong is located on the far ridge to the north.

Overnight in a hotel in Paro.

Day 06: Paro Departure

In the morning after early breakfast we will see you off at the Paro Airport for your onward destinations.

***

Kila Gonpa

Kila Gonpa

Documents

6 Days 5Nights Culture Bhutan Tour-2 in Thimphu & 3 in Paro