East India

Explore Thimphu on a city tour (Private).
Today, after a hearty breakfast, proceed for a full day sightseeing tour of Thimphu which includes visiting National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma statue, Motithang Takin Preserve, National Library of Bhutan, Folk Heritage Museum and Tashichho Dzong.

We start with National Memorial Chorten which is continuously circumambulated by the faithful, murmuring mantras and spinning of the prayer wheels, is predominantly white with spires of gold. For many Bhutanese it is the focus of their daily worship.

Buddha Dordenma statueis a gigantic golden Buddha statue measuring 51.5 m in height, sitting atop a gilded meditation hall and is one of the largest in the world.

Motithang Takin Preserve is a preserve center for Takin - the national animal of Bhutan. Then, visit the National Library of Bhutanwas established in 1967 to preserve ancient Dzongkha and Tibetan texts. The library consists of all kind of ancient books of Buddhist culture.

Folk Heritage Museum is one of the oldest traditional houses and has been around for more than 150 years old. The museum provides you a glimpse of the Bhutanese lifestyle and artifacts from the rural households. Lastly, visit the Tashichho Dzong, a beautiful medieval fortress / monastery which houses offices of the King, the Throne room and the central monastic body and some government ministries.

Post sightseeing return to the hotel.
Breakfast
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city.

Transfer from hotel in Thimphu to hotel in Punakha, en route visit Dochula Pass and Chimi Lhakhang (Private).

After breakfast, drive to the valleys of Punakha, en route visit the Dochula Pass which is a mountain pass in the snow covered Himalayas. The pass on a clear day offers a magnificent view of the snowcapped mountains of the Himalayas.

Also, visit the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the 'Fertility Temple', is a Buddist monastery. The temple is dedicated to the divine madman - Saint Drukpa Kuenley. On arrival in Punakha, check in to the hotel

Breakfast
The rest of the evening is at leisure for Independent activities.

Transfer from hotel in Punakha to hotel in Paro, en route visit Punakha Dzong (Private).
This morning after breakfast, drive to Paro, en route visit Punakha Dzong which is located at the confluence of Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. All of Bhutan's kings have been crowned here. On arrival in Punakha, check in to the hotel.

Breakfast
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the local markets.

Visit Taktsang Monastery (Private).
Your day begins after a sumptuous breakfast with a visit to Taktsang Monastery (5 - 6 hours hike).

Taktsang Lhakhang also known as the Tiger's Nest is the most famous Buddhist pilgrimage site and temple complex in Bhutan. Visible from afar, this stunning and highly revered monastery is perched on a high granite cliff at an altitude of 10,236 ft, overlooking the northern Paro valley.

For the people who won't be able to visit the Tiger's Nest we have an alternative, visiting places that includes Kyichu Lhakang, Drukgyel Dzong and National Museum. Kyichu Lhakhang was built sometimes in mid 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. It is believed to be one of the 108 temples built to subdue a demoness residing in the Himalayas. It is one of the oldest and beautiful temples in Bhutan.

Drukgyal Dzong was one of the four principal Dra Dzongs (defense fortress).The Dzong is now in ruins and it is said to have been caused by the fire when a butter lamp fell in the central tower. Only the ruins of giant walls, charred gigantic wooden posts, beams and watch towers can be seen of what was once an important fortress that repelled several invasions from the north.

National Museum is housed in the Ta Dzong (watchtower) and is a cultural museum. The museum has an intriguing collection of artifacts providing a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the Bhutan.
Note: Kyichu Lhakhang is open till 5 pm and National Museum is open till 4 pm. Post sightseeing return to the hotel.

Breakfast
The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.

Today, after breakfast drive back to Phuentsholing, the gateway to the south and thriving commercial trade centre on the northern edge of the Indian plains.
On arrival in Phuentsholing, check in to the hotel.

Breakfast
The rest of the day is at leisure.

Today, bid farewell to your 'Bhutan - Dragon Kingdom' tour, as you are transferred from hotel to the airport in Bagdogra for your onward journey.

Please do give us your valuable suggestions on info@blisstravelhouse.com