Bhutan Spiritual & Wellness Tour

Upon arrival in Paro, clear customs and immigration. Keep your copy of the visa clearance letter
handy. Meet your Guide and driver outside the terminal building and transfer to your hotel.
Paro: Paro is one of the most beautiful valleys in the country with Bhutan’s only airport located
here, among the terraced fields, and elegant farm houses. Willow trees line many of the roads,
contrasting with bright colors of the fields and the most popular and important sites also found
within Paro district. Paro town (2,280m) is still a small with one main street and less than one
hundred small family-run shops. The weekend market in Paro is held on Saturdays.
After check-in to hotel and getting freshen up visit :
Kyichu Lhakhang: Tibetan King Songtsen Gompo in the 7th century miraculously built 108
temples, along with Jorkhang in Lhasa. Kyichu is considered to be one of them and is one of the
oldest temples in Bhutan.
Dungtse Lhakhang: was constructed by the great bridge-builder Thangtong Gyelpo in 1433. It is
said to have been built on the head of demons, who was causing illness to the inhabitants. The
building was restored in 1841 and is a unique repository of Kagyu lineage. You may or may not
be permitted inside but can walk around this three-story Chorten type building.
Druk Choeding Lhakhang: It was built in 1525 by Ngawang Chogyel, one of the prince-abbots of
Ralung in Tibet and an ancestor of the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.
Choeten Lhakhang: It is a large Bhutanese style chorten (stupa), in the Paro town square. It is
usually possible to enter and visit the upstairs chapel. Dinner and overnight in Paro.

Drive from Paro to Punakha: The drive from Paro takes about 3 hours. The road climbs from
Thimphu to Dochula pass (3,050m) and descends through ever changing forests into the semitropical valley of Punakha and Wangdi at around 1200m.
En-route stop at Dochula pass (3050m) where you can view the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan's highest mountain, Gangkar Punsum (7,550m).
Chimi Lhakhang: a monastery and fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan
Buddhist saint known popularly as “the divine madman” and considered a folk hero in Bhutan
for his unconventional ways. Drukpa Kuenley originally built a chorten on the site in the 14th
century, on which a temple was later built in 15th century. The temple, flanked by nearly 100
tall prayer flags, sits atop a picturesque hill. It has long been a pilgrimage site for childless
couples. This easy walk takes about ½ hour each way.
Punakha and Wangdiphodrang: Punakha and Wangdue, although two separate districts, are
located in one valley (20km/ ½ hr drive apart) and they are at the lower elevation of about
1,250m with pleasant winters. Cactuses, Oranges, bananas and sub-tropical plants are found
here. Punakha was once the winter capital of Bhutan, the tradition that is still held by the
Central Monastic body. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast drive to the valley of Wangdiphodrang, it includes: visit to The Wangdue Phodrang dzong which was founded by the Zhabdrung in 1638 atop a high ridge between the Punak Tsang Chhu and the Dang Chhu, clearly chosen for its commanding view of the valleys below. Wangdi is important in the history of Bhutan because in the early days it was the country's second capital. Sadly the dzong caught fire on 24 June 2012 and was virtually destroyed save for the lower walls. The mammoth task of rebuilding is expected to continue until 2021.
Legend relates that as people searched for a site for the Dzong; four ravens were seen flying away in four directions. This was considered an auspicious sign, representing the spreading of religion to the four points of the compass. After Trongsa Dzong was established in 1644, the penlop (governor) of Wangdue Phodrang became the third most powerful ruler, after Paro and Trongsa. The dzong's strategic position gave the penlop control of the routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana and Thimphu.
Drive further to Limbukha village which is accessible by feeder road from Punakha and Wangdue.
Limbukha farmers are known for growing Bhutan's famous red rice which is supposed to have medicinal values. Limbukha is also known for its love of peace and tranquility. Legends say that during medieval wars the people of Limbukha always volunteered as peace negotiators. This is also depicted during annual festival when the Limbuk men are found carrying peace flags instead of swords and fireworks.In the evening, hike to Khamsum Yuley Chorten.
Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten was built in 1990s and took period of nearly 10 years. It was built by Queen Mother and dedicated to the King and for the well-being of Bhutanese. It majestically located on a ridge, with amazing views of the country side. It is one of the finest Bhutanese architects.
It is located in idyllic countryside north of Punakha; about 30 minutes’ drive from town. From the parking, it is another 45 minutes uphill walk through the rice fields and the return portion downhill takes around 30 minutes. After return walk back, there is an option to walk along the riverside, following the ancient trail that goes through farmlands, homes, Sonagasa village and arrive near Punakha Dzong. This extra walk takes another two hours or so. It is particularly interesting for those interested in birding and to enjoy the walk viewing the countryside. Dinner and overnight in Punakha.

After breakfast drive to the beautiful valley of Phobjikha. Phobjikha is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, and chosen winter home of black necked cranes (November – March) migrating from the Tibetan plateau.
On arrival in Phobjikha after lunch visit Gangtey Gompa Monastery, from outside. Gyaltse Pema Thinley, the grandson and mind reincarnation of Pema Lingpa founded the Temple in 1613. It is a Nyingmapa monastery and is affiliated to other Nyingmapa monasteries including Tamshing in Bumthang. Dinner and overnight in Phobjikha.

While you are in Phobjikha you will visit the Black Crane nature information Centre and enjoy
time to wander through Gangtey village and hike the Gangtey Nature Trail. There are many
additional hikes available in this beautiful valley and your guide will advise you the best options.
Dinner and overnight in Phobjikha.

After breakfast, drive to Trongsa. Visit Trongsa Dzong, the most impressive Dzong in Bhutan, built
in its present form in 1644 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, the official who was sent by Shabdrung to
unify eastern Bhutan and enlarged at the end of the 17th century by Desi Tenzin Rabgay. Trongsa
Dzong is the ancestral home of the present Royal Family and first two hereditary kings ruled
Bhutan from this Dzong. Then Visit Ta Dzong, an ancient watch tower. The chapel inside the Ta
Dzong is said to be dedicated to the Trongsa Penlop Jigme Namgyal. After Lunch, drive to
Bumthang. Dinner and overnight in Bumthang.

After breakfast, visit Jakar Dzong, which literally means “The Castle of White Bird”. The current
structure was built in 1667 and is said to be the largest Dzong in Bhutan and then visit Lamey
Goemba, a large palace and monastery built in 18th century by Dasho Phuntsho Wangdi. Visit
Jambay Lhakhang said to have been built by King Srongsen Gampo of Tibet in the year 659 on the
same day as Kichu Lhakhang in Paro. The temple was visited by Guru Rimpoche during his visit to
Bumthang and was renovated by Sindhu Raja after Guru Rimpoche restored his life force.
Under the temple is said to be a lake in which Guru Rimpoche hid several Terma. In October one of
the most spectacular festival, “Jambay Lhakhang Drup” is staged here. After lunch, Visit Chakhar
(Iron Castle) Lhakhang, it is the site of the palace of the Indian King, the Sindhu Raja who invited
Guru Rimpoche to Bumthang. The Original palace was made of Iron and hence the name Chakhar.
The saint Dorji Lingpa built the Current building in 14th century. Its correct name is Dechen
Phodrang. We then visit Kurjey Lhakhang that is named after body print of Guru Rimpoche, built in
1652 by Minjur Tempa. Visit Tamshing Lhakhang (Temple of the good message), established in
1501 by Pema Lingpa and is the most important Nyingmapa temple in the kingdom.

After breakfast, Excursion to the beautiful
valley of Ura. Dinner and overnight in Bumthang.

Trongsa is a district in central Bhutan which has a great political importance. It is about 2 Hrs.
45 min drive from Bumthang. We have chances to see yaks. After reaching Trongsa check into
your hotel get freshen up and visit Ta Dzong.
The watchtower just above the Dzong that was later converted to Ta Dzong (museum) in
dedication to Wangchuck dynasty displays the archive of Buddhist arts and royal souvenirs.
Also visit to Thruepang palace, the birth place of third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.
Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Trongsa

The drive to Punakha via Wangdue takes about 4 hours over the Pelela pass and Yotong La pass.
Lunch served at Chendebji Chorten. After reaching Punakha checkin to hotel and have dinner.In
the evening, stroll through Punakha downtown. Dinner and stay overnight at hotel in
Punakha.

After breakfast, travel to Thimphu through Dochula Pass 3140 m). In the clear sky enjoy the
panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountain ranges. Then pass by the beautiful 108 chortens
built on the hill by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck (Queen Mother of Bhutan) for
the security and wellbeing of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan.
Then continue your journey towards Thimphu.
On arrival at Thimphu, check into your hotel and after a refreshment or lunch, visit the
following places:
 Kuenselphodrang (commonly known as Buddha Point) where the largest Buddha statue
in the country is perched on the hillock overlooking the Thimphu Valley. You may take a
nature hike through Kuenselphodran Nature Park for about 20-30 minutes.
 Tashichhoe Dzong, a fortress of the glorious religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung
Ngawang Namgyel and was reconstructed into present structure by the late King, His
majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the year 1962-1969. It houses the secretariat
building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body.
 The National Memorial Chorten (stupa) which was constructed in 1974 as a memorial
for the third King of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is widely regarded as the
father of modern Bhutan. The term ‘chorten’ literally means ' seat of faith' and
Buddhists often call such monuments the 'Mind of Buddha'. Meet the elderly generation
in circumambulation, especially in the evenings, at the National Memorial Chorten.
Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.

The walk from the Radio Tower to Choekhortse Goemba via Wangditse is a moderate hike with great views over Thimphu.
From the Radio Tower, the trail goes along the tower fence before it passes a chorten and
follows the contours along the mountain side until reaching Wangditse. Along the way there are great views of Trashi Chhoe Dzong. At Wangditse, follow the left trail leading straight up to Choekhortse. After a while, the trail levels out while crossing an open ridge with a field of prayer flags. From here, you will have excellent views of the city. After another section through the forest, the trail ends up at Choekhortse Goemba (9,870 ft / 3,010 m), a private temple where monks often go for meditation. From here you turn left to continue straight downhill back to the Radio Tower.
Wangditse Goemba was founded in 1750 by the attendants of Bhutan’s 8th desi, Yeshey
Rabgye. It was renovated in 2002 after it suffered serious damage in a windstorm in 1995. The goemba houses the statues of the guardian deities Yeshey Gonpo (Mahakala), Palden Lhamo (Mahakali) and Tsheringma (the Goddess of Longevity).
Time : 3 – 4 hours . Difficulty Level: Moderate
Takin Preserve, which houses the national animal the Takin that is only found in Bhutan. This is an extremely rare member of the goat family. Found in herds in the very high altitudes (13,125ft and over). They live on a diet of grass and bamboo. It can weigh as much as 550pounds. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.

After breakfast visit:
 Changangkha Lhakhang (temple): Changangkha Lhakhang is an old fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in
Tibet. The central statue is Chenresig in an 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation
(God of compassion). There are enormous prayer wheels to spin and even the prayer
books in the temple are larger in size than usual Tibetan texts.
 Dechenphodrang (Palace of great bliss) Monastery located at north of Thimphu valley. It
is a monastic school for about 500 young monks enrolled for 8 years courses. You will
visit the monastery and have free interaction with young monks who are mostly from
poor family ground and some even orphan. The ‘Palace of Great Bliss’ serves as a home
and learning center for these young monks. You will spend some time interacting with
young monks.
 Enjoy lunch and then head towards Pangri Zampa Lhakhang, which is now a school for
Buddhist Astrology. Then, drive to Begana to the Guru’s Lhakhang, where you can toss a
pair of dice (known as sho zho ni) and have your fortune told by a monk, and where you
can also meditate.
 Return to Thimphu and visit a popular Centenary Farmers’ Market (open from Thu-Sun
only): Most of the Thimphu population and many valley dwellers converge on the
bustling weekend market, held by the side of Wangchu River. A wide range of foodstuffs
and local arts and crafts are sold at the market, which runs from Thursday afternoon till
Sunday evening. A visit to the market provides great photo opportunities, as well as the
chance to mingle with local people.
 Archery Match (National Game of Bhutan) at Changlimithang National Stadium.
 In the evening stroll through Thimphu downtown. Dinner and overnight in Thimphu.

Located in South West of Paro and covering an area of roughly 1706 sq. km, Haa is one of the
smallest Dzongkhag in the country. This tiny region is one of the most beautiful and isolated
areas in the kingdom, adorned with pristine alpine forests and tranquil mountain peaks.
Haa is the ancestral home of the Queen Grandmother and the illustrious Dorji family. This valley
remains one of the least visited areas in the country and retains the air of an unspoiled,
primeval forest.
Haa is home to a number of nomadic herders and hosts an annual Summer Festival that
displays their unique lifestyle and culture. The festival is an ideal occasion to immerse yourself
into the traditions and unchanged lifestyles of nomadic Bhutanese herders, as well as to sample
some delectable Haapi cuisine.
After reaching Haa check-in to your hotel and take a three-hour return hike from Haa town to
Juneydrak Hermitage. The walk is through rhododendron forest with fine views. Start about 1
km north of Haa, by the hospital and just before the main bridge, where a 4-wheel drive track
branches east to Katsho village. The cliff-side retreat contains a footprint of Machen Labdrom
(1055 -1132), a female Tibetan tantric practitioner.
A trail follows the stream past a mani wall to a two-legged archway chorten (known as a
khonying). Cross the bridge and ascend through a charming rhododendron forest. At a red
sign, take a trail to the left and climb up to a chorten that marks the entry to the Hermitage. If
there is no one meditating inside the temple then we can go in and take a look at the footprint.
If monks are meditating in the Hermitage you will not be able to go in, but it is a lovely walk and
there is a beautiful view back towards Haa valley from the temple. You should also be able to
stop a visit a local farmhouse during your walk. Dinner and overnight in Haa.

Drive to Paro through Chele La (3,988 m). From the pass, you can see Paro valley on one side
and then Haa valley on the other. You can also have a picnic at Chele La if you like to. After
reaching Paro check into your hotel.
This afternoon enjoy an orientation tour of the major features in Paro town including Paro
Dzong with its cantilever bridge; Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest and most beautiful
temples boasting an orange tree that perpetually bears fruit followed by a visit to the old
ruined fortress of the Drugyel Dzong (14km from Paro). This is the historical site of the Fort of
Drukpa Victory, from which the Bhutanese used to repel the Tibetan invaders again and again.
On a clear day views of the 7314 m snow domed peaks of sacred Mt Chomolhari can be seen.
Dinner and overnight in Paro.

This morning check out the National Museum in Paro to view the fine collection of ancient
Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and other artifacts and we recommend a wander along
the main street which offers good shopping for jewelry and handicrafts. Dinner and overnight
in Paro.

After breakfast, hike up to Taktshang Monastery, also known as ‘Tiger’s Nest Monastery’. The
climb up to the viewpoint will take around 1 ½ hours and from there you will enjoy a
spectacular view of the monastery clinging to the side of the cliff. Stop for refreshment at the
View Point Cafeteria. Then walk further up to the monastery which will take about 1 hour. It is
said that in the 8th century Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to
this place and meditated in a cave here for 3 months.
The principal Lhakhang (monastery) of the present monastic complex dates from 1692.
Taktsang was damaged severely by fire in 1998 but has now been fully restored to its former
beauty. After visiting the monastery, walk back down to the road on the way stop for lunch at
the view point cafeteria and then walk further down to the road point.
Then drive back to hotel. On the way visit Kichu temple, one of the 108 temples built in the 7th
century by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo. The story goes that a giant demon lay across the
whole area of Tibet and the Himalayas and was preventing the spread of Buddhism. To
overcome her, King Songtsen Gampo decided to build 108 temples, which would be placed on
all the points of her body. Of these 108 temples, 12 were built in accordance with precise plans.
Thus, it happened that in about the year AD 638 the temple of Jokhang in Lhasa was built over
the very heart of the demon. In the evening relax. Dinner and overnight in Paro.

In the morning, after breakfast representative from World Tour Plan will see you off at the Paro
airport for your onward flight.