Rinpung Dzong

Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport Thimphu Cultural Sights & Acclimatization Day! •Drive to Thimphu (60km/ 1hr). Thimphu is a charming capital city nestled at the heart of Himalayas •Mothithang Takin Preserve. Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, • Buddha Dordenma Statue. This giant statue is the biggest sitting Buddha in the world. •General Post Office. You can create personalized postage stamps with your own photos. •Memorial chorten built in the memory of the third kind of Bhutan. •The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building is the office of the King. •In the evening walking tour around Thimphu city. Overnight Thimphu (Alt; 2320m) Day 2: Discovering Punakha & Wangdue (78km/ 2.5hr) •En route stop by Dochula pass (3150m) to enjoy spectacular views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. •Stroll around 108 stupas and enter Drukwangyel (Royal temple). • Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. •Visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river. •Walk on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village . •In evening, time at your leisure. Overnight Punakha (Alt; 1240m) Day 3: Paro Sightseeing & Detour (135km/ 3-4hr) •After breakfast drive to Paro via stopping for mountain view at Dochula again if the weather is clear. •On arrival, check in hotel followed by Paro sightseeing •Ta Dzong, an ancient Watch Tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia. •Rinpung Dzong “Fortress of the heap of Jewels.” •On the way back, visit Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king. •Witness an archery match at national stadium played by locals with lots of hue & cry. •In evening, time at your leisure, free to shop for souvenir at Paro town. Interact with the friendly locals. Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m) Day 4 : Excursion to Mystical Taktsang •After a wholesome breakfast, spend the day hiking up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous and scenic icon. Tiger’s Nest clings to sheer cliffs of 900m above Paro valley. The climb is steep and takes about 4-5hrs round trip. (Ponies & horses optional) •Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view. •In evening, authentic Bhutanese farewell dinner at a typical village home with local liquor called “Ara.” •Hot stone bath, optional. River rocks are heated and dunked into a large wooden tub with herbs. This type of bath is considered to have medicinal properties of healing. Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m) Day 5: Depart from Paro International Airport Our representative will bid you farewell at the airport. TashiDelek!

The 4-Day Bhutan Tour offers a journey into a hidden kingdom in the Eastern Himalayas, where centuries-old isolation has preserved its unique culture and natural wonders. This tour highlights Bhutan's deep-rooted Buddhism, ecological treasures, and wildlife, untouched by colonization. With a population mirroring Switzerland's and known as the only Mahayana Buddhist nation, Bhutan cherishes its environmental and spiritual heritage. This experience delves into Bhutan’s history, from the introduction of Buddhism by Guru Rinpoche to the unification under Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and the transition to a modern state under the Wangchuck dynasty. Embrace Bhutan's commitment to cultural preservation and nature through its official language Dzongkha, revered symbols like the Cypress and the Takin, and its practice of Vajrayana Buddhism. The Bhutan Tour encapsulates the essence of a nation where tradition and nature intertwine. Embark on a 4-day Bhutan Tour through Bhutan's heart, exploring the vibrant cities of Thimphu and Paro, where ancient traditions meet modernity. The itinerary is as follows: Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Transfer to Thimphu Arrive in Paro, where the Himalayan range welcomes you with open arms. After immigration, meet our representative and embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu. En route, witness the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers at Chuzom and visit Tachogang Lhakhang. Explore Thimphu's unique blend of modern development and ancient traditions, including a visit to the Local Crafts Bazaar. Overnight in Thimphu. Day 2: Thimphu to Paro After breakfast, explore Thimphu's landmarks like the Buddha Point for panoramic city views and the King's Memorial Chorten. Post lunch, journey back to Paro to visit the National Museum and the Rinpung Dzong. Overnight in Paro, preparing for the next day's adventure. Day 3: Paro - Taktshang Monastery Excursion Dedicate your day to the iconic Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched 900m above the valley. This spiritual hike offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Bhutan's religious fervor. In the afternoon, visit the historic Drukgyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples. Overnight in Paro. Day 4: Departure from Paro After breakfast, proceed to Paro airport for your departure, taking with you memories of a kingdom where happiness is measured, and the legacy of the dragon thrives in the harmony of nature and culture. This journey through Thimphu and Paro is more than a trip; it's an immersion into the heart of Bhutanese life, where every corner holds a story, and the landscape whispers the tales of the dragon kingdom.

Day 01: Paro – Thimphu The flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (approx. 1hr 30m). On the way visit Tachog gang where an iron chain bridge. After arriving in Thimphu visit:- Day 02: Thimphu After breakfast, visit Kuensel Phodrang where big buddha statue is built; visit National Memorial Chorten where we see elderly people pray and circumambulate the stupa; Paper Factory where you will see how Bhutanese traditional handmade paper is made; Motithang Takin Preserve where you will see Bhutan’s typical national animal. Hike to Wangdue Tse Lhakhang where you get a beautiful view of Thimphu Valley. Crafts Bazaar where you will find authentic Bhutanese made crafts. Visit Tashichho Dzong (Fortress) known as “fortress of the glorious religion,”. It houses the main secretariat building and the central monk body. National Institute for Zorig Chusum or the School of Arts and Crafts is an Institute where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts & crafts. Later, visit the archery ground to see local people playing archery and you can walk along Norzin Lam, the main Thimphu downtown. Day 03: Thimphu – Gangtey/Phobjikha Drive to Gangtey which is around 3 – 4 hours. On the way, stop over the Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks snowclad mountains from the pass. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas. Drive further to Phobjikha Valley via Punakha/Wangdue. On arrival in Gangtey, visit Crane information Center where you get information about the valley. Day 04: Gangtey/Phobjikha – Punakha. Overnight in Punakha. After breakfast, hike across Gangtey Nature Trail which is one and a half hours and enjoy the breathtaking view of Phobjikha valley. Visit Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century. Later, drive back to Punakha. Later, visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of Fertility. Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. Then visit Punakha Dzong, one of the majestic fortresses which is located between Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). And visit the longest Suspension Bridge across the Dzong. Overnight in Punakha. Day 05: Punakha – Paro After breakfast 45 minutes hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel chorten with the picturesque view of the rice terraces along the river. Then drive to Paro and visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Day 06: Paro Enjoy full day sightseeing around Paro. Taktsang Monastery The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. National Museum (Ta Dzong) Ta Dzong is located on a ridge, overlooking the Rinpung Dzong Farmhouse visit We welcome you to visit Bhutanese homes for dinner with them and experience their hospitality. Day 07: Paro Departure In the morning drive to airport for departure.

Your grand Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tour begins in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital. Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where a Peregrine representative will escort you to your hotel for check-in and a welcome drink. Once settled, explore Thamel's lively streets, filled with cafes, restaurants, and traditional Nepali handicraft stores. Day 2 takes you through the historical wonders of the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the expansive Boudhanath Stupa, the serene Pashupatinath Temple by the Bagmati River, and the architecturally stunning Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Each site offers a unique glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry. On Day 3, choose a scenic drive to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurnas. Known as the "City of Lakes," Pokhara is a haven of tranquility with stunning views of the Himalayas. Check into your hotel and enjoy the peaceful environment. Day 4 begins with a sunrise trip to Sarangkot, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. Follow this with a boat ride on Phewa Lake. The afternoon is yours to explore local attractions like Devi's Falls and the World Peace Pagoda. Day 5 marks your return to Kathmandu, by bus or an optional flight, before continuing to Tibet. Spend your last evening in Nepal exploring or relaxing. The Tibet leg begins on Day 6 with a drive to the Kyirong border, moving on to a quaint Tibetan town for an overnight stay. Day 7 involves a scenic drive across the Tibetan plateau, with potential views of Mt. Cho Oyu and Shishapangma, en route to Tingri or Lhatse. On Day 8, travel to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, crossing high mountain passes and exploring local monasteries. Continue to Lhasa on Day 9, passing breathtaking landscapes like Yamdrok-Tso Lake. Days 10 and 11 are dedicated to Lhasa. Visit the spiritual Jokhang Temple, bustling Barkhor Bazaar, majestic Potala Palace, and significant monasteries like Drepung and Sera, immersing yourself in Tibetan culture and history. Depart Lhasa on Day 12, driving to Shegar, and return to Kathmandu on Day 13, reminiscing about your journey across the Tibetan landscape. The final leg of your tour starts on Day 14 with a flight to Bhutan. Experience Thimphu’s blend of modernity and tradition, visiting landmarks and local markets. On Day 15, travel to Paro, exploring the National Museum and Rinpung Dzong. Day 16 is reserved for the Taktshang Monastery hike, an iconic Bhutanese experience with stunning views and rich spirituality. Explore more historical sites in the afternoon. Conclude your journey on Day 17 with a departure from Paro, enriched with memories of the landscapes, spiritual sites, and vibrant cultures of Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.

Day 01: Arrival at Paro – Thimphu The flight to Paro reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848 m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Once you arrive at the Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative (Guide) and then drive to Thimphu (approx. 1hr 30m). On the way visit Tachog gang where an iron chain bridge was built by Thang Thong Gyalpo. After arriving in Thimphu visit:- The National Memorial was built in 1974 by Her Majesty Ashi Phuntsho in the memorial of the third King. Bhutan Postal Museum: Fascinating Stamps If you have any sort of interest in philately, then you should definitely stop by the National Post Office in Thimphu. Crafts Bazaar where you will find authentic Bhutanese made crafts. Archery ground to see how local folks play their traditional sport. Tashichodzong The original Thimphu Dzong now known as theTashichho dzong is also called the "fortress of glorious religion." Overnight in Thimphu. Day 02: Thimphu - Paro After breakfast visit Dordenma Buddha statue Atop a hill in Thimphu, the capital and largest city of Bhutan, is a massive, golden Buddha. The Motithang Takin Preserve also known as the Mini Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin - Bhutan’s national animal. Paper Factory where you will see how Bhutanese traditional handmade paper is made. Drive to Dochula Pass, We won’t deny the fact that Dochula is a 40-minute drive from Thimphu but it is definitely worth the visit especially for those who are looking for Thimphu sightseeing places. Once here, you will witness 108 Druk Wangyal chortens. Drive back to Paro and stroll around Paro market. Day 03: Paro Enjoy full day sightseeing around Paro. Taktsang Monastery The wooden structure built amazingly, stands bravely on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and set up this monastery when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. The monastery was built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye who is said to be one of the reincarnations of Guru Rinpoche. From the road, the hike toward Taktshang follows an uphill route and takes approximately 2-3 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day. Rinpung Dzong Rinpung houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts. Famous as Paro Dzong, This dzong has been used on various occasions to protect Paro from the invasion of Tibet. Below the dzong is a traditional wooden bridge called Nyamai Zam, which was reconstructed when the original one got washed away in a flood in 1969. Visit Namgay Artisanal Brewery. They brew many styles of beer. Day 04: Departure. In the morning drive to the Airport for flight to your onward destination.