Bhutan

(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.

(Distance: 40 Kms. / Driving Time: 1.5 Hrs.)

• After breakfast, drive to the base of the abode of gods and monks, the Taktshang Monastery. The monastery is a 2 -3 hours hike uphill from here.
• One feels truly blessed reaching the monastery. The primary Lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rinpoche’s Meditation cave in 1684 which clings to the edge of a sheer Rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below.
• Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress which gives its name “Taktshang” meaning Tiger’s nest. Afternoon (If time permits), visit the Drukgyel Dzong. Built in 1647, the dzong was destroyed by accidental fire and left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate.
• Explore the ramparts and experience an unforgettable view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 m). On the way back, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan.
• Overnight stay at Paro.

(Distance: 35 Kms. (One way) / Driving Time: 2 Hrs. (One way) / Altitude of Chele-La-Pass: 3,988 Mts.)

• After breakfast, drive to Chele-La-Pass (13,088 ft.) – the highest motor-able Passes in Bhutan. It is approximately around 2 hrs. drive uphill along a densely-populated forest road and beautiful natural sights.
• Stop at places for photography and for bird watching (if a bird watcher). The Pass is beautifully marked by hundreds of prayers flags and provides stunning views of Mountain Jhomolhari and Jichu Drake. While returning, hike down to Kila Goemba which is a home to Buddhist nuns.
• The temple and numerous meditation huts dot a rocky cliff and is a serene, peaceful place. Drive back to Paro. In the evening, explore the Paro town shopping for souvenirs.
• Overnight stay at Hotel.

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