Bhutan Mystical Tours 5Nights 6Days

Following a hearty breakfast, your day of exploration begins with a visit to the Government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local craft shops, offering a window into Bhutan's rich traditional arts. Here, you can browse and shop for exquisite hand-woven textiles, thangka paintings, intricately carved masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewellery, and a host of other captivating items crafted from local materials.

Next on the agenda is a visit to the Painting School, where the art of creating Thangka, sacred Buddhist religious scrolls, is diligently preserved and taught. You'll proceed to the Traditional Medicine Institute, where ancient healing practices are meticulously upheld, and you'll have a glimpse of Bhutanese paper manufacturing, generally an "outside-only" experience.

Your journey continues with a visit to the Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums. Both opened in 2001, these museums offer fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and their way of life.

The day's program also includes a visit to the Takin Sanctuary, located in the Motithang district of Thimphu. This is a wildlife reserve dedicated to the Takin, Bhutan's national animal. It's said to have been magically created by Drukpa Kunley, the popular 15th-century saint, and it possesses a baffling blend of physical features resembling a cow from the back and a goat from the front, intriguing taxonomists.

In the evening, you'll visit the impressive Tashichho Dzong, situated on the northern edge of Thimphu, along the western bank of the Wang Chu. This imposing structure has long served as the seat of the Druk desi or 'Dharma Raja,' the head of Bhutan's civil government, a position combined with the monarchy since the country's establishment in 1907. It also functions as the summer capital of Bhutan, making it one of the stateliest and most striking buildings in the nation.

Overnight at Hotel. [B/L/D]

Commencing the day with an early breakfast, you'll set out on a scenic drive to Punakha, a journey spanning approximately three hours. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit Dochula Pass, located 30 kilometres from the capital. This pass is renowned for its panoramic vistas of the Himalayan mountain range, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view, especially on clear winter days. The 108 chortens that embellish this site were erected by the Queen Mother in memory of the Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives while fighting Indian rebels in 2003.

Continuing your journey, you'll embark on a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, situated near Lobesa in Punakha. Perched on a round hillock and surrounded by a profusion of prayer flags, this monastery dates back to 1499 and is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley, also known as 'the Divine Madman.' An accomplished master of the Mahamudra Buddhist Tradition, he gained fame as the 'Mad Saint' for his unorthodox teaching methods, which involved singing, humour, and eccentric behaviour, often with strong sexual overtones.

Your exploration of Punakha also includes a visit to Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, which translates to 'the palace of great happiness or bliss.' Constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1673, it holds the distinction of being the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan, making it one of the country's most majestic and significant structures. Until 1955, Punakha Dzong served as the administrative centre and the seat of the Bhutanese government before the capital was relocated to Thimphu.

Overnight at Hotel. [B/L/D]

Following a satisfying breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Paro, a journey that takes approximately one hour. In Paro, your day of exploration begins with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, which is housed inside the distinctive circular Ta-Dzong building. This ancient watchtower, situated above the Paro Dzong, has a unique round shape resembling a conch shell. The original structure dates back to 1656, but it was converted into a museum in 1968. The necessary infrastructure was developed to showcase some of the finest examples of Bhutanese art, including exceptional bronze statues and paintings collected from various regions of the country. The museum's galleries are thoughtfully designed to display these extensive collections, offering insights into the history and cultural heritage spanning over 1,500 years.

Your journey continues with a visit to Paro Dzong, one of Bhutan's most impressive and well-known dzongs. This architectural masterpiece is often referred to as Ringpung Dzong, which translates to 'fortress on a heap of jewels.' It serves as the administrative centre of the Paro district and was constructed in the 16th century, built upon the foundation of a monastery established by Guru Rinpoche. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in defending the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions.

Concluding your day of exploration, you'll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an important Himalayan Buddhist temple. This temple, built in the seventh century, is one of Bhutan's oldest religious sites. It is one of the 108 temples constructed by Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo to subdue demons that hindered the spread of Buddhism. Temples like Kyichu Lhakhang were strategically positioned across the Himalayas to pin down the body of the demoness. Kyichu Lhakhang is believed to anchor her left foot, while Jamba Lhakhang in Bumthang secures her left knee.

Overnight at Hotel. [B/L/D]

Your day begins with an adventurous hike to one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks, the Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as the "Tiger's Nest." Perched dramatically on a cliff 3,000 feet above the valley floor, this monastery is one of the country's most revered pilgrimage sites. The hike follows a well-defined trail, covering a little over 4 miles round trip and reaching heights of 9,184 feet above sea level. You have the option to complete the full hike to the monastery or stop at a cafeteria after two hours and make your way back, tailoring the experience to your preference.

A day spent at Taktsang Monastery is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and connect with the monks at this sacred site. Legend has it that the great tantric mystic Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, flew to this location on the back of a tiger to introduce the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan.

In the evening, you'll have the chance to partake in a quintessential Bhutanese experience by trying your hand at archery, the country's national sport, and a true national obsession. This firsthand experience allows you to appreciate the skill and precision that Bhutanese archers display in this traditional sport.

Overnight at Hotel. [B/L/D]

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight onward.   

Ø  Yes, visitors to Bhutan require a visa. Tourists must book their trip through an authorized tour operator who will arrange the visa on their behalf.

Ø  The best times to visit Bhutan are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Ø  Bhutan boasts attractions such as Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, and the vibrant capital city of Thimphu.

Ø  Yes, Bhutan is considered one of the safest countries for tourists. The crime rate is low, and the locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

Ø  The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). Indian Rupees are also widely accepted throughout the country.

Ø  While some hotels and larger establishments accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Ø  While some hotels and larger establishments accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially in rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Ø  It is recommended to pack comfortable clothing suitable for both warm and cool weather, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any necessary medications.

Ø  Yes, Bhutanese cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including vegetable curries, rice, and traditional buckwheat noodles.

Ø  Yes, travellers can extend their stay in Bhutan, subject to visa regulations and availability of accommodation.

Ø  Photography is generally permitted at most tourist sites, but it's advisable to ask for permission before taking pictures inside temples and religious institutions.

Ø  Dzongkha is the official language of Bhutan, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and by those involved in the tourism industry.

Ø  Tours to Bhutan must be booked through authorized tour operators registered with the Tourism Council of Bhutan. They will handle all arrangements, including visas and accommodations.

Ø  Yes, there is internet and mobile phone coverage in most urban areas of Bhutan. However, connectivity may be limited in remote or mountainous regions.