West Bhutan Cultural Tour 04 Nights/05 Days
Duration
Tour Type
Discover: 02 Nights Paro/ 02 Nights Thimphu Sightseeing
Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Here are some key points about Bhutan:
- Culture and Tradition: Bhutan is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. The country places a strong emphasis on preserving its cultural identity, which is evident in various aspects of life, including architecture, art, dance, and festivals. Buddhism plays a central role in Bhutanese culture, and the country is home to numerous monasteries, stupas, and religious sites.
- Gross National Happiness: Bhutan is famous for prioritizing the well-being and happiness of its citizens over economic growth. The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) was introduced by the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, as an alternative measure of progress. GNH emphasizes holistic development, sustainable socio-economic policies, environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and good governance.
- Natural Beauty: Bhutan boasts breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains, lush valleys, dense forests, and pristine rivers. The country is renowned for its biodiversity and is considered one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation is reflected in its policy of maintaining at least 60% forest cover and its efforts to promote sustainable tourism.
- Tourism: While Bhutan restricts the number of tourists through a policy of “high-value, low-impact” tourism, it has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking unique cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Visitors to Bhutan are required to book their trips through authorized tour operators and pay a daily tariff, which covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a sustainable tourism fee.
- Government and Leadership: Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The King of Bhutan, currently King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The country underwent a peaceful transition to democracy in 2008, following the abdication of the fourth King in favor of his son.
- Happiness Index: Bhutan is often cited as one of the happiest countries in the world, according to various global happiness indexes. The emphasis on spiritual well-being, community, and sustainable development contributes to the overall happiness and contentment of Bhutanese society.
Overall, Bhutan is a unique and enchanting destination that offers visitors an opportunity to experience its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and commitment to happiness and sustainability.
Detailed Day Wise Itinerary
Today in time you will drop at Kolkata Airport to board the flight from Kolkata is considered as one of the most scenic flights offering the view of the world’s top ten highest peaks. Upon your arrival in Paro airport our guide will be there to welcome you and transfer to Thimphu. Later in the afternoon visit the Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd King. This place now happens to be a get together point for the elderly people, who spend their whole day chanting prayers and meeting their friends. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley offering a beautiful view of the valley. Enclosure where the national animal, Takins are kept and drive to visit the largest and the newly built statue of Buddha offering magnificent view of entire Thimphu valley. After 5 PM, visit the fortress of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the king. Evening walk around the happening town, the largest and the most crowded town in Bhutan.
Overnight: Thimphu| Altitude: 2300m
Morning visit the happening weekend market (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) where the locals from the surrounding villages come to sell their produce. They sell their goods and in return they buy their basic necessities. In olden days, bata system was practiced by everyone. Visit the traditional Hand Made Paper Mill. Visit the School of Arts and Crafts where students learn 13 different arts used predominantly in Bhutan. Visit Folk Heritage Museum which explains how a traditional house used to be like in the olden days. Later visit the National Library which houses the collection of Bhutanese rich religious text and the contemporary Buddhism teachings from master all around the world. Drive further up to visit the Dechenphodrang monastic school and meet the young monks. Later continue to Zilukha nunnery to meet the nuns and interact with them.
Overnight: Thimphu
After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Dochula pass (3200 mts). If the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular breath taking view of the highest mountain peaks of Bhutan at a sight that stretches almost 180 degrees. Take a break and walk around the newly built 108 stupas. Later retrace your drive back to Paro. Visit Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Continue further to stroll around the old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores. Could get some opportunity to see the traditional game, Archery match going on. Evening back to the hotel.
Overnight: Paro
Morning drive to Chelela Pass, 3800m one of the highest motorable road in Bhutan. If the weather permits one can view the most scared and the highest mountain peak in the country Mt. Jomolhari (7314m) overlooking at you. Walk around the pass with prayer flag fluttering and enjoy the fresh air. Afternoon back to the hotel. Later visit Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use. Continue further to stroll around the old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts stores. Could get some opportunity to see the traditional game, Archery match going on. Evening back to the hotel.
Overnight: Paro
Morning transfer (15 mins) to the airport for your departure flight. Your guide will bid you farewell at the airport.
