Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas between China and India.Besides the stunning natural scenery, the enduring image of the country for most visitors is the strong sense of culture and tradition that binds the kingdom and clearly distinguishes it from its larger neighbors. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, and the profound teachings of this tradition remain well preserved and exert a strong influence in all aspects of life. Located between two Asian giants China and India, the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan is often termed as The Last Shangrila.
Things to do and See
Paro
Paro is a historic town with many sacred sites
and historical buildings scattered through the area. In addition, the Paro
Valley is wide and verdant and is recognized as one of the most beautiful in
all Bhutan. Prefer to stay in Paro if you are someone who is fond of nature and
would like to spend quiet and peaceful time. However, apart from the main
street (which is constructed of traditional wooden structures), the bazaar area
is a nondescript hodgepodge of concrete buildings that is totally bereft of charm
and character. Along with Jakar and Punakha, Paro forms the golden triangle of
popular tourist destinations in Bhutan.
Taktsang Monastery
Taktsang Monastery, (Tigers Nest). Precariously perched on
the edge of a 1,200 meter cliff, this monastery creates an impressive sight,
and is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. Taktsang was established as a sacred
place for meditation by Guru Rinpoche who visited the site on his second visit
to Bhutan in 747 CE, though the first monastery was not constructed until 1694.
In 1998 a tragic fire destroyed most of the original buildings, but these have
since been painstakingly restored to their former glory.
Drukgyel Dzong
This dzong (fortress) was built in the 16th
century to commemorate a victory over the invading Tibetan forces. The fortress
today lies in ruins, the elements and a fire in the 1950s having taken a toll
on the site. Drukyel dzong is about 15 kms from Paro.
Thimphu
The Thimphu Valley has supported small
settlements for many centuries and a dzong has existed there since 1216, the
city did not really develop until the king declared Thimphu the new capital in
1961. Vehicles first appeared on the streets a year later, and slowly the city
began to adapt to its role as the nations capital. Currently the town is
undergoing massive development. New tree-lined streets are being laid and the
clock tower area in the center of the city has been transformed into a
park-cum-open air theater where live cultural performances take place. In 2008,
the national stadium was completed together with a new river-side park. The
area around the dzong and government buildings is a particularly green and an
attractive district.
Religious structures
Monasteries are referred to by their Dzongkha title of lhakhang or gompa.
Changangkha Lhakhang: Constructed in the 15th century, this is one of the oldest temples in the Thimphu Valley, and is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the Buddhist emanation of compassion. The temple affords wonderful views over the entire valley.
The National Memorial Chorten, located off Jangchhub Lam. A good place to visit in the evening when the locals are doing their evening prayers. The stupa was built in 1974 in memory of the third king.
Zangthoperi Lhakhang, lower Thimphu (follow the path down from below the GPO). The present structure was built in 1960s and although lacking the charm of many of the older temples, Zangdopelri still possesses some impressive murals and art treasures and is worthy of a visit. The site of the temple was a former battle ground, and the temple was constructed there in order to pacify energies.
Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, sitting on top of Kuensel Phodrang hill is a 51.5mt bronze statue of the founder of Buddhism. The site also offers unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley - especially stunning at sunset.
Museums and Galleries
Located behind the National Library. A traditional house that showcases rural life. Exhibits and cultural shows are held in the museum compound. Open: Mon-Fri 10:30AM to 4:30PM, Sa 10:30Am to 1PM and Su 11:30AM to 3:30PM. Entrance: 150nu.
The Textile Museum, Norzin Lam, has a display of exquisite Bhutanese textiles from the 1600s to the present day.
Alaya Gallery, Chubachu, a contemporary art gallery operated by VAST, group of Bhutanese artists, has regular changing exhibits. It also offers free weekly art classes to Bhutanese children as well as other community focused art activities. ph: 327248
Water Dragon Gallery, Hong Kong Market, is a contemporary art gallery displaying a range of paintings inspired by Bhutanese life. Located above in the same building as the popular Karmas Coffee, Open Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm ph: 17 85 16 65
Landmarks
Trashi Chhoe Dzong. The present dzong was built in the 18th century by Shabdrung Rinpoche to house government officials. Later it was enlarged to accommodate both the monastic and civil bodies. Three times suffering severe damage from fire and once from an earthquake in 1897, much of the historic building dates from the rebuilding in 1902. To accommodate the national government and the central monastic body, the dzong was totally refurbished and enlarged in 1962, a year after Thimphu was designated the nations capital.
Simtokha Dzong. Built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Simtokha was the first dzong to be built in a unified Bhutan. Currently, it houses the countrys main Dzongkha language learning institute. Simtokha is about 5km south of Thimphu.
Parks and preserves
Takin Preserve, Motithang. The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.
Botanical Gardens, Serbithang. Located on lush hillside about 10km from the city, the gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanists will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest.
Coronation Park. Located on the banks of the river (near the city stadium), this 5.6 acres of parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or to sit and watch the river flow by.
Punakha
Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until the 1960s, and still retains the serene atmosphere of a place with a regal past. The dzong is the main attraction, but there are also other sites of interest in and around this pleasant little town. Along with Paro and Jakar, Punakha completes the triangle of most popular tourist destinations.
Punakha Dzong. Majestically standing on an island between the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the citys dzong is one of the most photogenic of all Bhutans ancient fortresses, and you will see pictures of it hanging in hotels and restaurants throughout the country. The dzong is joined to the mainland by an arched wooden bridge, and contains many precious relics from the days when successive kings reigned the kingdom from this valley. The dzong serves as the winter home of the monastic body.
Scenery
Bhutan
pristine environment offers ecosystem which are rich and diverse, due to its
location and great geographical and climatic variations, Bhutans high, rugged
mountains and valleys boast spectacular biodiversity, earning it a name as one
of the worlds ten most important biodiversity hotspots.
Recognizing
the importance of environment, conservation of its rich biodiversity is one of
its development paradigms. The government has decreed that 60% of its forest
resources will be maintained for all time through a recently enacted law passed
by government. Today, approximately 72% of the total land area is under forest
cover and about 26% of the land area fall under protected areas comprising of
four parks. As a result, Bhutan offers a wonderful raw and unexploited
environment that is generally very much appreciated by international travelers
35% of Bhutan is made up of protected national
parks. Namely, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park (1,300 sq.km), TrumshingLa
National Park (768 sq. km), Royal Manas National Park (9,938.54 sq. km), Jigme
Dorji National Park (4,349 sq. km), Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary (1,545 sq. km)
and Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (650 sq. km).
Festivals
Festivals
or Tshechu (tenth day) are another major draw card to Bhutan and are held every
year in various temples monasteries and dzongs across the country. The Tshechu
is mainly a religious event celebrated on tenth day of a month of lunar
calendar corresponding to the birth day of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava).
However the month of Tshechu depends place to place and temple to temple.
Tshechus are large social gatherings where people from various villages come
together to witness the religious mask dances which are based on incidents from
as long as 8th century from the life of Guru Padmasambhava and to receive
blessings from lamas. The event also consists of colorful Bhutanese dances and
other entertainments.
It is said that everyone must attend a Tshechu and witness the
mask dances at least once to receive the blessings and wash away the sins.
Every mask dances performed during Tshechu has a meaning or a story behind. In
monasteries the mask dances are performed by monks and in remote villages they
are performed jointly by monks and village men. Among many Tshechus in the
country most popular are Paro and Thimphu Tshechus in terms of participation
and audience. Besides the locals many tourists from across the world are
attracted to this unique, colorful and exciting culture.
Traditionally, the Paro and Thimphu have been
the most popular but tourists are fast realizing that the smaller more rural
festivals are much more intimate.
Places to Stay
Dhey Kyed Resort, Paro
Chelupang, Nemjo Village,
Lugni Geog, Paro
The resort is located 20 minutes from
the airport in Paro on a gentle slope overlooking the picturesque Paro valley.
The meandering Paro River and the rice fields form an agrarian topography that
is beautiful to the eye and calming to the mind.
Dhey
Kyed in Bhutanese means wellbeing and peace. And that is just what we hope
to offer you during your stay here. Our dedicated staff will strive to offer
the unobtrusive services to our esteemed clients with traditional warmth and
hospitality. The resort was built keeping in mind the vibrant and colorful
Bhutanese architecture and modern comforts.
Tashi Namgay Resort, Paro
Damsebu, Paro
Web: www.tnr.bt
The resort is set amidst five acres of
lush foliage and sprawling green lawns and has 39 spacious rooms housed in 15
cottages and bungalows. Located outside Paro town, it offers a calm and
peaceful environment that merges traditional Bhutanese and modern architecture
in its own unique style that incorporates its concern for the environment as
seen through the use of solar lights, wooden shingle roofing and mud walls.
Tashi Namgay Resort & Spa features
42 guest rooms, which include Deluxe Rooms, Executive Suites, Suites, Standard
rooms, budget rooms and Jungle lodge. Each room features elegant and
contemporary décor and furnishings, allowing the ultimate in comfort and
sophistication.
Hotel Tashi Phuntshok, Paro
Changnanka, Paro
Web: www.hoteltashiphuntshok.com
Situated conveniently about 3 km from
the Paro International Airport, We, at Tashi Phuntshok have blended together
the comforts of modern amenities with the sincerity of a real village life
style to provide our guest the best of both worlds. Set ad mists paddy fields
and traditional rural houses; we strive to provide you with a truly marvelous
experience of getting a firsthand feel of the traditional customs and rural
life in Bhutan while enjoying the luxury of our services.
Tashi
Phuntshok started its journey into the hospitality industry in 2009 .Over the
years we have expanded and ventured into affiliated areas with the
establishment of Tashi Phuntshok resort, a 34 roomed affordable luxury hotel
located in the heart of Paro just a distance away from the paro airport.
The
resort is only 10 minutes drive from Paro town; 15 minutes from the Paro
International airport, yet it has quiet surroundings in a natural country setting-
several walks can be taken from the hotel to view the farmlands, monasteries
and the lush forests of Paro valley; a great place for trekkers, bicyclists and
nature lovers.
It
comprises cottages, which are set amongst pine trees and has direct view of the
two of the most celebrates sights in Bhutan: Taktsang Monastery and Mount.
Chomolhari 7,314m). It has 11 well decorated rooms in traditional style, all
with private facilities. The other facilities here include; restaurant &
bar, IDD telephone, laundry, money exchange, heating
Village Lodge, Paro
Chendona, Lango, Paro
A simple hotel about 9 km
from Paro town, it is situated in a rural setting among rice fields and
adjacent to the river. The hotel offers 16 rooms, all with attached bath, running
hot & cold water, restaurant & bar, IDD telephone, money exchange and
Internet Connectivity
Tenzinling is an intimate, family run resort.
Located in a strategic location it gives a bird-eye full view of the Paro
valley with a spectacular Paro Dzong in the background. All the 21 rooms have
been oriented to give the view of the Dzong. Built in the ancestral land,
the resort is surrounded by a small village amidst apple orchards, and rice
fields. We would like to welcome you to come and experience the taste of
Bhutanese hospitality at Tenzinling.
The hotel is ideally located in the heart of the
city. Sonam Trophel is a familiar and distinctive landmark, a traditional
wooden architect & paintings apart from the glass and concrete conformity
of other hotels. Sonam Trophel Hotel is a fine budget hotel in Paro that offers
modern comforts to its guests at a price they can easily afford. International
airports in Paro is located at a distance of 5 km. respectively while the city
bus station lies at just opposite from hotel.
Traditional architecture, elegant décor, and a
seamless blend of age-old Bhutanese charm and contemporary facilities has made Hotel Druk one of the most
sought after addresses in Thimphu since the early 1980s. Located in the heart
of the city in close proximity of the business district, cultural centers, and
historical landmarks, Hotel
Druk recreates the magic of old-world charisma coupled with warm
Bhutanese hospitality.
Namgay Heritage Hotel was built on the concept
that guests to our country come to experience the culture, history and the way
of life of the people of Bhutan but deserve to do so in a manner suited to
their sensibilities
If you are looking for a hotel that reflects the culture and traditions of
Bhutan and at the same time offers you all the amenities of a truly modern
hotel, it is our sincere believe, that we should be your hotel of choice
Hotel MIGMAR is ideally located in amidst the
scenic landscape of the capital Thimphu on the expressway. It is away from the
crowd and the daily hustle bustle of the city life. Serene views surround the
hotel. Hotel Migmar aspires to offer individual guests an experience of being
surrounded by nature, blending it with lavish luxury in the abode of the Gods.
Hotel Migmar is built on the contemporary theme and yet has a unique blend of
Bhutanese architecture and modern amenities.
Welcome to Bhutan’s first designer boutique
hotel. Kisa meaning “where peace prevails” is a family owned hotel. Like all
family owned hotels you can be assured of personalized service and individual
care as opposed to being a room number like in some hotels. We opened our doors
on the 1st of October 2008 and have since been welcoming honored guests like
you
Hotel Phuntsho Pelri
Phendey lam, Thimphu
Hotel Phuntsho Pelri meaning “Palace of Great
Contentment” can surely live up to its name. One of its most striking features
is its Interior design, a fusion of traditional Bhutanese architecture and
Spacious Modern design. Situated at the heart of town with easy access to
all commercial centers, Textile Museum, National Library and other heritage
tourist sites.
Hotel River view, Thimphu
Thimphu
One of the finest properties in Thimphu
elegantly situated on the east bank of Thimphu River. It presents commanding view
of town and the valley. An interesting feature of the place is the fact that
all the rooms overlook Thimphu river and have private balconies offering
panoramic vistas.
Group Tour
THE DRAGON KINGDOM
Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas between China and India.Besides the stunning natural scenery, the enduring image of the country for most visitors is the strong sense of culture and tradition that binds the kingdom and clearly distinguishes it from its larger neighbors. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, and the profound teachings of this tradition remain well preserved and exert a strong influence in all aspects of life. Located between two Asian giants China and India , the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan is often termed as The Last Shangrila.
Paro, Thimphu (2 nights), Punakha, Paro (1 night)
Duration : 4 Days 03 Nights
Price From : BDT 39800.00
Price shall include :
Transportation :
01. Dhaka – Pero – Dhaka : By Air
02. Paro – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro: By Car / Jeep / Bus
03. All Sightseeing/Transfer: By Car / Jeep / Bus
Accommodation : All through Deluxe Hotel/Resort, Twin/Double Share Basis
Meal : Daily Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Sightseeing : As per itinerary
Guide Service :
Day 01: DHAKA-PARO-THIMPHU
Departure Dhaka for Paro by Druk Air at 03:55 PM. Flight to Paro will bring you the most spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges. Twenty five minutes before you land in the Dragon Kingdom, you will be able to view the highest mountain range, the Everest and then other mountains. After arrival at 04:55 PM meet and greet at airport On the way to Thimphu, we will visit Tamchog Gonpa which is a temple that is dedicated to the 13th century saint Thangthong Gyalpo, iron bridge builder. This temple is located across the river from Paro to Thimphu. In order to get to the temple one must cross an iron chain bridge, one of the few remaining of the many that Thangthong Gyalpo built. After that, once you reach Thimphu, You will complete a quick registration process and head to your room. Take some rest before setting out for the glorious night view of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Our agent will take you to the most sought after attraction of Thimphu, Buddha Dordenma which is gigantic Buddha statue in the mountains of Bhutan, National Memorial Chorten which was built in the memory of Third King of Bhutan and it’s dedicated to World Peace. Return to your hotel and end the first day of your Bhutan tour with a sound sleep. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 02: THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING
After breakfast we will start for Thimphu. On the way visit Simtokha Dzong the oldest Dzong (fortress) built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1629. Visit the Memorial Chorten which was built in memory of the third King in 1974. After lunch, visit the Painting School where the art of ancient painting is used by the students; visit the Changangkha Monastery, Zagtopelri Monastery and Zilukha Nunnery. Visit Tashichhodzong from outside which is the seat of the Royal Government and central Monastic body. Visit Post Office for beautiful stamps, Paper factory, weaving center, handicrafts and shopping. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 03: THIMPHU-PARO
After the breakfast, proceed to Paro. Thimphu to Paro is 50 km distance and it takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by road. On the way the guests can stop at bird’s eye view point and by the river side of Pa-Chhu. Visit the oldest temple in Bhutan called KichuLakhang. It was built in 7th Century by Tibetan King. The guests can also visit Chelela Pass located at 3810m (13000ft) between the valley of Paro and from where the spectacular views of Mt. Jumolhari, JichuDrakey and adjoining Himalaya Mountains to the North West, as well as the view of Haa and Paro valley can be seen. Chelela Pass is the highest motor able pass in Bhutan. If time permits the guest can visit National Museum of Bhutan, Ta Dzong,RinpungDzong and Airport View Point. Check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Paro.
Day 04: PARO-DHAKA
After breakfast transfer to Airport to flight back Dhaka at 01:55 PM. Arrive Dhaka at 02:55 PM and end of the tour.
LAND OF THUNDER DRAGON
Hidden deep within the Himalayas , between India and Tibet , lies the remote and isolated Kingdom of Bhutan , lost to the world for centuries. A journey to this Shangri-La affords us a unique insight into a world long past, where traditions and beliefs remain untainted by outside influences . All buildings, whether large monasteries, private houses or even gas stations, must conform to traditional design. The nation is also a bastion of Vajrayana Buddhism and the teachings of the traditional influence all aspects of life in the kingdom.
02. Siliguri – Phuentsholing – Thimphu – Siliguri: Non AC Jeep / Bus
03. All Sightseeing/Transfer: Non AC Jeep / Bus
Accommodation : All through Tourist Class Hotel / Resort, Twin/Double Share Basis
Meal : As per itinerary
Sightseeing : As per itinerary
Guide Service :
Day 01: DHAKA-BURIMARI
Departure Dhaka by night coach for Burimari Border. Overnight Journey.
Day 02: BURIMARI-SILIGURI-PHUENTSHOLING
Arrive Burimari at morning, after breakfast in local restaurant we will proceed for border formalities. Then start for Siliguri by road. After a short break we will start for Phuentsholing. Arrive Phuentsholing at afternoon, transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.
Day 03: PHUENTSHOLING-THIMPHU
After breakfast we have to report to the immigration office at Bhutan gate to take permission for Thimphu. It will take couple of hours. After getting permission we will start for Thimphu by reserve jeep. After a 7 hours drive we will have reached at the capital of Bhutan at evening. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 04: THIMPHU-PUNAKHA-THIMPHU
Full day for City sightseeing includes Tashichhodzong, on the banks of the Wangchhu (Thimphu river), The City center, The national Memorial stupa, Takin preserve etc and then we will drive for Punakha, just 45 minutes from Thimphu, on a clear day, offers visitors a panoramic view of the Eastern Himalayan range. The road continues down the valley to the relative lowlands of the Punakha valley. After completing we will drive back to Thimphu. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
Day 05: THIMPHU-PHUENTSHOLING-SHILIGURI
After breakfast drive back to Phuentsholing. Arrive Phuentsholing at after noon and then start aging a drive for Siliguri. Arrive Siliguri at evening. Over night at Siliguri.
Day 06: SILIGURI-DHAKA
Free for shopping or anything else till the departure for Dhaka by bus from Siliguri at noon. After border formalities start for Dhaka again from Burimari by night Coach. Overnight journey.
Day 07: DHAKA
Arrive Dhaka at early in the morning and end of the tour.
A group of tourism professionals is serving the individuals, family, cultural groups and corporate clients. We also provide customized tour packages with necessary logistic support for all attractive and exciting destinations of Bangladesh and Worldwide.
