Bhutan

(Distance: 55 Kms. (One way) / Driving Time: 1½ Hrs. (One way) / Altitude of Paro: 2,280 Mts.) 

• After breakfast drive to Paro (7480 ft.). While in Paro, visit the Ta Dzong which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangka, etc.
• Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong which literally means the "fortress of the heap of jewels". The Dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro Dzongkhag. Then explore the Paro Town.
• Afternoon, visit the Kyichhu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and then drive further to visit the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong built by Tenzin Drukdra in 1649 at the behest of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate the victory over Tibetan invasion.
• On the way back take a photo stop to catch the view of the Taktshang Monastery (Tiger Nest).
• Further ahead stop at the Paro Airport View Point to enjoy the view and the soothing breeze for a while.
• Drive back to Thimphu.
• Overnight stay at Thimphu.

(Distance: 78 Kms. One way / Driving Time: 3 Hrs. / Altitude of Punakha: 1,310 Mts.)   

• After breakfast drive to Punakha (4298 ft).  On the way stop at Dochula Pass at 3150 m to view the higher Himalayas. The pass is approximately 25 kms away from Thimphu and is the highest point between the Thimphu and Punakha/Wangdue Valley.
• Another attraction is the 108 chorten/stupas (Druk Wangyel Chortens) built close to each other surrounded by numerous colorful prayer flags. Further, one the way to Punakha enjoy the winding roads and the nature at its best. While in Punakha, take a short and easy hike to visit the Chhimi Lhakhang which is also known as the “The Temple of Fertility” and was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”. Then, visit the Punakha Dzong.
• Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal the Dzong served as the seat of the Government until the time of the Second King of Bhutan. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness).
• It is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo. If time permits, visit the Suspension Bridge, which is one of the longest in Bhutan. In the evening, drive back to Thimphu.
• Overnight in Thimphu.

(Distance: 55 Kms. / Driving Time: 1½ Hrs. / Altitude of Paro: 2,280 Mts.)        

• After breakfast transfer to Paro (7480 ft.). On the way visit the Tamchog Lhakhang. It was built in the 13th century by Thangthong Gyalpo who is also known as the Iron bridge builder. Situated on a hill top, we have to cross an ancient style bridge to reach the temple.
• On arrival in Paro, check in at the hotel. Afternoon, visit Ta Dzong - National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Rinpung Dzong - Meaning "fortress of the heap of jewels".
• The dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro.  In the evening, explore the Paro Town and valley.
• Overnight stay at Paro.

• After breakfast check out from hotel and drive to Paro Airport for your onward journey.