Bhutan Cultural Tour

After breakfast we visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), Nunnery Temple, Changgangkha Monastery, the radio tower (for a panoramic view of Thimphu Valley), Majestic Thimphu Dzong, and the zoo, which contains the national animal of Bhutan: the takin. Afternoon visit to the famous Weekend Market. Stroll through the market to see the variety of food in the country, including basket upon basket of fiery chilies, fresh cheese, and mangoes. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. It’s fun to wander the aisles, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the market. This is an opportunityty for photography and to mingle with locals who come from nearby villages to sell their farm products. Overnight in Thimphu.

We will travel to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan until 1955, and will stop at Dochula Pass along the way. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayas. It also houses the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens built on a small hill to commemorate the Bhutanese soldiers who died fighting Assam rebels from India.

The Druk Wangyal Lhakhang Temple was built to commemorate 100 years of the monarchy and the fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. We will visit one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan, the Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers. It is an amazing example of Bhutanese architecture.

Punakha Dzong – Located at a strategic point at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, this Dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative site of the region.

Foju Suspension Bridge – At 160 meters long, this suspension bridge is reputed to be the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan. Which offers spectacular views of the Punakha Dzong and the Feju Valley.

There is no temple in Bhutan built as elaborately as this one. This fascinating temple was built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to bring universal peace to this world. The finest works of spiritual art can be found on the inner walls. There are also paintings of Buddhist teachers and tutelary deities of the country. In this temple, one can study the symbolic meanings of the frescoes and sculptures..

The scenic valleys of Paro are home to many of Bhutan’s ancient monasteries and temples. The country’s only airport is in Paro. The valley is also home to Mount Jomolhari (7,300m) located at the northern end of the valley. Water from the glacier forming Pa Chhu flows through the valley. Kyichuu Lhakhang – also known as Kyerchu Temple or Lho Kyerchu, is the oldest temple in Bhutan. Like Jambhay Lhakhang in Bumthang, this temple is one of 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue and crucify the beast. Hindering the spread of Buddhism. According to legend, 108 temples were built in one night.

Step back in time and experience ancient history at this ancient Kyushu temple. As the name suggests, the temple is a repository of peace. And you will feel at peace here. Next to the temple is a house turned museum dedicated to the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. We can see photographs and other artifacts belonging to Rinpoche.

Today we bid farewell to the tiny Himalayan kingdom and its friendly people. After an early breakfast, we leave Thimpu for Paro airport which will take us around 1 hour. Druk Air generally departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Consequently, in the morning, after breakfast, we will be transferred to the airport for our final departure.