ITINERARY

D1 Singapore - Paro

Highlights:

Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, Learn How to Make Ema Datshi Their Famous Chili Cheese Dish

Assemble at Changi Airport for your flight to Paro. Upon arrival, be met and enjoy a local welcome from Bhutanese representatives with Khada. Here, you will visit Rinpung Dzong, built in 1644 to defend the valley against Tibetan invaders and next is to Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, the oldest monastery in Bhutan built in the 7th century. This evening, enjoy an interactive session and learn from the locals on how to make ema datshi, a local chili cheese dish and get to sample this exquisite taste.

D2 Paro

Highlights:

Taktsang Lhakhang, Tiger Nest Hike With Certicate of Achievement, Gho & Kira Traditional Dress-Up Session

Take an early breakfast and embark on a hike to Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It clings precariously to a granite cliff 900 metres above Paro Valley. The monastery was first built in 1692 at a cave where legend has it that the great Guru Rimpoche flew to the site atop the back of a tigress and meditated in the cave in order to subdue evil demons residing within. You may wish to take a pony ride at your own expense. Wrap up your day with a Gho and Kira traditional dress-up session and flood your social media page endless feed of that cultural perfect-picture you.

Note

Please wear comfortable walking shoes for your hike to Taktsang Lhakhang. The hike is not recommended for pregnant women and travellers with health conditions.

D3 Paro - Haa - Thimphu

Highlights:

Haa Valley, Lhakhang Karpo (The Black Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (The White Temple), Wangchuck Lo Dzong

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through the enchanting Haa Valley, a realm of spiritual richness known as the "Hidden-Land Rice Valley." Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the valley adorned with two sacred temples – Lhakhang Karpo (The Black Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (The White Temple). These awe-inspiring structures were built without any formal architectural plans, with stones artfully arranged to create vibrant colors that still captivate the senses today. Capture a distant glimpse of Wangchuck Lo Dzong, an exquisite modern construction nestled gracefully on a gentle slope overlooking the pristine Haa Chhu River. As the day comes to a close, return to Thimphu

D4 Thimphu

Highlights:

Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten, Motithang Takin Preserve, National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Hands-on Archery, Traditional Butter Tea & Ara, a Local Rice Wine, Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar & Norzin Lam

This morning, visit Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, serene spot offering breathtaking views of Thimphu Valley. Marvel at the grandeur of the 169-foot tall bronze Buddha Dordenma Statue, a magnificent symbol of Bhutan's spirituality. Continue your exploration with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a reverent stupa built to honor the late 3rd king. Next, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Motithang Takin Preserve, where you can witness the unique Takin, gentle creatures resembling goat-cow hybrids, freely roaming in the forest. Be captivated by the artistry of thangkas painting, woodcarving, exquisite embroidery, and clay statue-making at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, fondly known as 'the painting school'. Proceed on to Simply Bhutan, a living museum dedicated to preserving the rich culture and customs of traditional Bhutanese life. Here, embrace the Bhutanese way of life with hands-on archery, the country's national sport, and savor the flavors of traditional butter tea and Ara, a local rice wine made from high-altitude barley, rice, or wheat. After lunch, make a stop at Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, a special initiative aimed at conserving the art of traditional handmade paper-making. Witness the fascinating process of crafting paper using age-old techniques passed down through generations. Amble through an authentic Bhutanese crafts bazaar and the vibrant Norzin Lam, a bustling street where you can find handicrafts, garments, and accessories to take home as mementos. End the day with a Buffet dinner and Local Cultural dance performance.

D5 Thimphu - Punakha - Thimphu

Highlights:

Punakha, Dochula Pass, Druk Wangyal Chortens, Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong, Punakha Suspension Bridge, Soul-Soothing Religious Blessing Service

A culturally enriching morning journey to Punakha, as we drive through picturesque landscapes to the scenic Dochula Pass. Along the way, be mesmerized by the captivating Druk Wangyal Chortens, a magnificent sight adorned with 108 beautiful chortens, lovingly commissioned by the esteemed Queen Mother. Take a leisurely hike through fields of diverse vegetables, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings leading to Chimi Lhakhang, a revered pilgrimage site known for bestowing blessings upon couples seeking parenthood. Experience the spiritual significance of this sacred place. Capture the essence of Bhutan's rich heritage as we visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, majestically perched at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. Its grandeur and beauty make it a true Instagram-worthy destination, offering a glimpse into the nation's glorious pass. Consider partaking in a soul-soothing religious blessing service. And don't forget to keep your camera ready to snap memories on the Punakha Suspension Bridge, an impressive marvel and one of Bhutan's longest suspension bridges.

D6 Thimphu - Paro - Singapore

Highlights:

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge, Paro Town Market

Bid fare to the happiest on earth as you check out and proceed to Paro for your flight back home. On the way, make more memories as we cross the Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge. an iron chain bridge built by Drupthob Thangtong Gyalpo and is the access route to the famous Tachogang Lhakhang Dzong. Finish up your dollars at Paro Town Market for last minute shopping.

D7 Singapore

Chan Brothers Travel