Bhutan Highlights: 4-Day Cultural Tour

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A 4-day “Bhutan at a Glance” tour provides an introduction to the cultural and natural marvels of this captivating Himalayan kingdom. Although brief, it allows visitors to enjoy some of Bhutan’s key attractions.

Duration: 4 days

Cancellation: 24 hours

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Highlights

Arrival at Paro - Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - The flight to Paro offers stunning and awe-inspiring views of the Himalayan Mountains. If the weather is favorable, you may catch a glimpse of Mt. Everest (8,848 m, 29,198 ft) and other Himalayan Mountain Ranges. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, a representative (Guide) will warmly welcome you and drive you to Thimphu (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes). En route, visit Tachog gang, where an iron chain bridge was constructed by Thang Thong Gyalpo.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - The National Memorial Chorten is likely one of the most popular attractions in Thimphu, serving as a daily place of worship for many locals. This Memorial Chorten is frequented daily by elderly people, children, and others on their way to work, school, and back home.

Motithang Takin Preserve - Known by many as the Mini Zoo, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a small natural habitat for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. This rare member of the goat-antelope family is a unique species found only in Bhutan. The preserve is a forested area that replicates the Takin’s natural environment, and it also houses a few musk deer and barking deer.

Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory - The Jungshi factory is renowned for producing traditional paper using an ancient method rather than modern techniques. Visitors to the factory can enjoy a demonstration of the paper-making process. This is one of the most popular activities in Thimphu, and you can purchase this unique paper as an interesting souvenir gift.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Archery: Bhutan’s glory is well-known. The country, as beautiful as paradise itself, is celebrated for its vibrant culture, lively festivals, and rich sports heritage. The spirit of sports is deeply ingrained in its citizens.

Centenary Farmers Market - The Thimphu Centenary Farmers Market is a lively and bustling market held every weekend in Bhutan’s capital city. It serves as a hub for local farmers, artisans, and vendors to sell their produce and goods.

Tashichho Dzong - The original Thimphu Dzong (the Dho-Ngyen Dzong) is believed to have been built in 1216 by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. Later, the Dzong was taken over by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who found it too small and expanded it into what is now known as Tashichho Dzong, also called the “fortress of glorious religion.” It was constructed in 1641 and was later rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s.

Thimphu - Dochula Pass to Paro

Buddha Dordenma - The Dordenma Buddha statue, located atop a hill in Thimphu, the capital and largest city of Bhutan, is a massive, golden Buddha.

Dochula Pass - Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in the Kingdom of Bhutan, a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas. It is situated at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level. The pass is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the majestic snow-capped peaks. Here, you will see 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens.

Rinpung Dzong - Rinpung Dzong houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including local courts. Known as Paro Dzong, it was constructed in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery - Did you know Bhutan boasts some of the most renowned and highly enjoyed brews? If you are a beer enthusiast and wish to sample some of the finest brews, a visit to the Namgay Artisanal Brewery in Paro Valley is a must.

Hike to Tiger’s Nest

Paro Taktsang - This wooden structure, built with remarkable skill, stands boldly on a cliff. It is said that the great Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and established this monastery when he brought the teachings of Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. The monastery was built in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgaye, believed to be one of the reincarnations of Guru Rinpoche. From the road, the hike to Taktshang follows an uphill path and takes approximately 2-3 hours at an average walking pace on a clear, sunny day.