5 Days Western Bhutan Group Tour: Paro, Thimphu & Haa - Hidden Buddhist Country

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Bhutan, the Last Shangri La in Pristine Himalayan Kingdom. Take a deep breath and enjoy the refreshing breeze in the happy country where 71% of the land is covered with forests. Your guide will greet you at Paro International Airport, Bhutan's only international airport.

Paro (2,270m) is the first city for most guests to reach Bhutan. It is known for Tiger's Nest which makes Paro a must-visit destination in Bhutan. For nature and culture lovers, Paro is a picturesque place that combines spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. You may have the chance to attend the colorful annual Paro Tshechu Festival if you visit Paro in early to mid-March. The festival falls on the 10th day of the second lunar month of the Bhutanese calendar. In some years, the festival might start slightly earlier, around March 10th or 15th. The festival celebrates the birthday of Guru Rinpoche, a revered figure in Bhutanese Buddhism.

You will not miss a stop at the Paro Airport Birds Eye View Point on the way to you hotel, which is a great spot to enjoy a panorama view of Paro Airport, Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), National Museum (Ta Dzong), Paro Chu River, and the stunning Paro Valley itself. Don't forget to ask your guide for more fascinating information about this remarkable airport. Afterward, you can check in at your cozy hotel, where you can rest and acclimate yourself to any time difference.

You will enjoy the following complimentary experiences from the AOT:
1.Bhutan National Dress Experience: Try Bhutan Traditional Attire, Gho for Men & Kira for Women. The Gho and Kira are typically made from woven fabrics with intricate patterns and designs, reflecting the country's textile heritage.
2.A Bottle of Bhutan Red Rice Wine: Try Bhutan red rice wine, a traditional alcoholic beverage made by fermenting red rice, a staple crop in Bhutan. It has a lower alcohol content and is typically sweeter than beer.

Base on all group members reach Paro Airport before noon, if time permits, you can ask your guide to take you to Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) and Bhutan National Museum (Ta Dzong) as the first destinations (self-pay for the tickets). Please note that Paro Dzong is open from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends. It is required to have a tour guide accompany you when visiting the Dzongs. Before entering for a visit, security checks might be conducted.

Free Time Ideas:
1. Visit Paro Local Market or Street: Why not dress in Bhutan's National attire to visit a local market or Paro's main street? Check what Bhutanese eat and what ingredients are used in Bhutan Dishes. Colorful Chili peppers, dry cheese, potatoes, apples...
2. Try Bhutan National Sport (self-pay for the fee): Archery is the favorite pastime for Bhutanese. It has a history of over 2,000 years and was declared Bhutan's National Sport in 1971. Targets at traditional Bhutanese tournaments are placed at both ends of a 140m range (Olympic distance is 70m). Enjoy your time by holding a bow and arrow.
Feel free to contact your guide in advance for more travel advice and tips tailored to your interests.

Arrival Ideas:
Bhutan is situated between Tibet in China to the north and India to the south. To reach Bhutan, you can either travel by air to Paro International Airport, the country's only international airport, or by land through the entry points of Phuentsholing or Gelephu from India. Bhutan's national carrier Druk Air, Bhutan Airlines, and other international airlines, operate regular flights to Paro from major cities like Delhi (India), Kolkata (India),Bagdogra (India), Gaya (India), Guwahati (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Bangkok (Thailand), Kathmandu (Nepal), and Changi (Singapore). There will be some charter flights to Paro from Hong Kong (China) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), on a seasonal basis. Around 30,000 people arrive at Paro Airport every year.

Kind Reminds:
1.You can contact us to book your flight to Paro and land directly in Bhutan.
2. Visitors of all nationalities, except those from India (require a permit), require an E-visa (40USD/pax) before entering Bhutan. All nationalities are welcome to visit Bhutan, and there are no specific restrictions on granting visas to enter the country.
3. Visitors from India are able to apply for a permit but are required to hold an Indian passport or an Indian voter ID card.
4. Visitors from Bangladesh and the Maldives also require a visa, which can be applied for and approved in advance of travel or upon arrival in Bhutan.

View the Himalayas on Flight to Bhutan

Welcome to Bhutan

Paro Dzong, Bhutan

Bhutan National Museum, Paro

Attractions

Explore according to your flight time

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Dinner

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Paro

This morning, you will get ready to start the exciting Hiking Tour to Tiger's Nest, the landmark of Bhutan and the most famous holy monastery in the country. It is about a 12km drive (over 0.5 hour) from Paro City to the start point of the Tiger's Nest hike route.

Usually, it may takes about 2.5 hours to reach Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) on foot. The entire Tiger's Nest Hike takes around 5 to 6 hours, with about 4.8 km of uphill trekking and about 4.8 km of downhill walking. Riding a horse (Optional; Self-payment required), it takes about 1.5 hours to reach the halfway point on the mountainside. From there, you need to say goodbye to your horse and hike for another 1.5 hours to reach the Tiger's Nest Monastery. At the halfway point, there is a Taktsang Cafeteria where you can have a buffet lunch and enjoy coffee and tea. What is more it is the first viewpoint where you can look up at Tiger's Nest Monastery, the incredible religious site of Buddhists. As the viewing position ascends, the outline of Tiger's Nest Monastery becomes increasingly clear. On the journey ahead, you can enjoy the hike in Bhutan’s forest and will see more and more prayer flags and prayer wheels, left behind by the Bhutanese people who come here to worship. You will also have a panoramic view of the beautiful Paro Valley below. If you visit in April, you will have the opportunity to see the high-altitude rhododendrons blooming, creating a stunning display of red clouds amidst the mountains.

Then, you will stand right opposite the Taktsang Goemba (Tiger's Nest Monastery) and admire Bhutan's most iconic cultural landmark, which is renown as one of the world's top ten super monasteries. The Tiger's Nest (3,120m) is sited on the side of a cliff at a height of 900m above the Paro Valley (2,270m). According to legend, the Indian sage Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche, the founder of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and the builder of the first monastery in Tibet - Samye Monastery) arrived at the location of Tiger's Nest Monastery in the 8th century. It is said that he rode a tigress and subdued demons before spending 3 months meditating in the mountain caves here. This eventually led to the formation of the present-day Tiger's Nest Monastery. Throughout history, this place has been considered a sacred site by Buddhist luminaries. However, it wasn't until 1692 that the current structure of Tiger's Nest Monastery took shape. In 1998, a devastating fire caused significant damage, but it was reconstructed in 2005, closely resembling the original architectural design. You can also hike into the monastery to explore more (no photo inside). Today, Tiger's Nest Monastery, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Bhutan, is revered as the holiest pilgrimage site for Bhutanese people to visit at least once in a lifetime (It takes pilgrims 5 days to complete their kora, performing one long kowtow/full body prostrations at each step of their journey from the Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge to Tiger's Nest Monastery).

After the Tiger's Nest Hike, it is time to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of the Thousand-armed and Thousand-eyed Avalokiteshvara. It is one of the 108 Buddhist temples built by King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century (around 659 AD), and it is believed to have been constructed to subdue the left leg of the Tibetan witch. Kyichu Lhakhang is also one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist temples in Bhutan and serves as a venue for important celebrations of the Bhutanese royal family. In the main hall of Kyichu Lhakhang, you can see the revered statue of an eight-year-old Shakyamuni Buddha, believed to have been created during the same period as the Jowo statue in the Ramoche Temple in Lhasa, Tibet. It is considered a national treasure of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Apart from housing many precious historical artifacts and Buddhist scriptures, the temple also enshrines the relic stupa of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche (1910-1991), a renowned master of the Nyingma tradition. Additionally, there is a piece of iron chain forged by Tangtong Gyalpo, who was the former head of the four major Tibetan Buddhist schools and is known as the Iron Bridge Living Buddha and the father of Tibetan opera.

At last, head back to Paro for overnight.

Optional Bhutan Paro Experiences:
1. Bhutan Traditional Hot Stone Bath (1 hour).
2. Lighting butter lamps for blessings at Kyichu Lhakhang (108 lamps).

Kind Reminds:
1. The best time to visit Tiger's Nest is from March to May and from October to December. After noon, the monastery will be hidden in the shadow of the cliffs, so it's recommended to depart early if you want to capture good photos.
2. Tiger's Nest offers horse riding services to go uphill, but the horse ride is only available up to a designated point. From there, you still need to hike to reach the monastery. When descending, you must walk the entire way as horse riding services are not provided.
3. Mobile phones and backpacks are not allowed inside Tiger's Nest Monastery. Personal belongings can be stored at the entrance. If you wish to light butter lamps, make sure to have some cash ready before storing your belongings.
4. Along the way, you may encounter stray dogs. Please be mindful, give them space, and avoid disturbing them.

Happiness is Reaching Tiger's Nest

Prayer flags, Tiger's Nest Hiking

Kyichu Lhakhang, Bhutan

Butter Lamps, Kyichu Lhakhang

Attractions

2 Iconic Sites

Transportation

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Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation

Paro

Today, we will head to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, which is about 50km away and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. On the way, we will make a stop at Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge for a visit. Once in Thimphu (altitude 2,340m), you will have a full day of sightseeing. You can explore its rich cultural heritage such as the Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten, Motithang Takin Preserve, and Tashichho Dzong.

From Paro to Thimphu, you won't want to miss visiting the famous Tamchog Lhakhang Iron Bridge (view the Tachog Lhakhang from outside only), situated by the Paro river. There, you will have the opportunity to walk across a unique iron chain bridge adorned with colorful fluttering prayer flags. Both the Lhakhang and the iron bridge were constructed by the revered saint Thangthong Gyalpo (1385 - 1464), who was renowned as the Iron Bridge Maker. Take delight in exploring his historic architectural creations that have stood the test of time. Then, you will visit the iconic landmark of Thimphu City - the Buddha Dordenma Statue (Buddha Point), which is the largest sitting Shakyamuni statue in the world. Completed in 2015, the statue embodies an ancient prophecy of radiating happiness and peace throughout the world. In addition to admiring its impressive height of 51.5 meters, constructed of bronze and gilded in gold, you will also be able to see 125,000 smaller Buddha statues placed within it. During the festival period, visiting here provides the opportunity to witness Buddhist rituals, such as the Vajra Dance Ceremony. Moreover, from this vantage point, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Thimphu Valley & the red/green roof of Thimphu Buildings.

As the largest city in Bhutan, Thimphu lacks traffic lights and a railway system. When you enter the city, you can visit the National Memorial Chorten and experience it as the locals do. It is customary to follow the footsteps of the Bhutanese people and perform a clockwise kora (circumambulation) around the Chorten while offering prayers. This will provide you with numerous opportunities to engage with the locals and learn about their daily lives, as well as their philosophy on happiness.

The National Memorial Chorten is the most visited landmark in Thimphu. Constructed in 1974 in memory of the Third King, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (known as the Father of Modern Bhutan), by his mother, it reflects the late king's vision of promoting world peace and prosperity. The Chorten follows a Tibetan-style architecture and is adorned with remarkable paintings and intricate sculptures. You can observe the traditional stupa design, featuring a pyramidal pillar topped with a crescent moon and sun. Nature lovers will love to visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see Bhutan's national animal. There, you can observe the unique creature that is said to have been created by the legendary Drukpa Kunley (Divine Madman). According to legend, Drukpa Kunley fashioned the takin with the head of a goat and the body of a cow.

Sure, you should not miss the visit to Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong), which has served as the seat of the government since 1952. This magnificent fortress-like structure is located on the western bank of the Wang Chu River. It seamlessly integrates with the entire valley and stands as the ultimate center of power in Bhutan. It houses the offices of the current reigning monarch, the Fifth King (Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck), as well as the ministries of internal affairs and finance. Additionally, it serves as the residence of the spiritual leader of Bhutan, the Je Khenpo, and hosts the central religious institutions of the country. During the summer season, the Je Khenpo resides in the Thimphu Dzong, while in the winter season, they relocate to Punakha Dzong. Walking around the Dzong, you will discover that it is an impressively large structure surrounded by well-kept lawns and beautiful gardens. Tashichho Dzong has two main entrances. One entrance leads to the administrative section in the south (officials only), while the other, situated in the north, grants access to the monastic quarter where the Thimphu Tshechu Festival (held around Sept. or Oct. yearly) and masked dances are performed.

Note: The tourist opening hours of Thimphu Dzong are from 5 PM to 6:30PM on weekdays and from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekends. It is required to have a tour guide accompany you for a visit to the Dzongs. Before entering for a visit, security checks are conducted. If you visit there at the right time (lucky enough), you may have the chance to see the flag descending ceremony.

Finally, it's time for dinner. You can enjoy a traditional meal at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant. Opened as a passion project to promote Bhutanese culinary arts (traditional Bhutan dishes), the restaurant was established by the Queen Mother of Bhutan, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck. After dinner, you will spend the night in Thimphu and have a restful sleep.

Optional Bhutan Thimphu Experiences:
1. Folk Heritage Museum: If time permit, you can visit Folk Heritage Museum, a captivating window into Bhutan's rural past & established by the Queen Mother of Bhutan.
2. Simply Bhutan Museum: If time permit, you can visit Simply Bhutan Museum to explore more about Bhutan culture.
3. Bhutan Stamp Printing: Fully functional stamp printed with a self-portrait (Bhutan Post Office: Weekdays: 9AM - 5PM; Saturdays: 9 AM - 1 PM; Closed on Sundays).

Happiness is visiting Buddha Point, Bhutan

National Memorial Chorten, Bhutan

Thimphu Dzong, Bhutan

Thimphu Dzong, Bhutan

Attractions

5 iconic sites

Transportation

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Dining

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation

Thimphu

After breakfast, drive to Haa (115 km, 3.5 h), the "Hidden-land Rice Valley" and the westernmost Dzong of Bhutan. Unlike many popular tourist destinations in Bhutan, Haa Valley remains delightfully untouched, preserving its serene atmosphere and traditional way of life. It is highly recommended for nature enthusiasts and trekkers seeking a beautiful destination. Here, you won't encounter hordes of crowds but rather the gentle whispers of the wind and the rhythmic clang of prayer flags.

First, you will pay a visit to Mini Tiger's Nest (Dzongdrakha Goempa or Dzongdrakha Monastery), which is a temple complex nestled on the cliffs of the western side of the Paro Valley. Constructed in the 16th century by the local ruler Chogay Dragpa, legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the revered Buddhist master, first landed at Drakarpo, then Dzongdrakha, before reaching the famous Paro Taktshang (Tiger's Nest). With its strategic location providing a splendid view of the Paro Bondey valley, Dzongdrakha Monastery is often regarded as the second Tiger's Nest. Make sure to explore the cave where Drubthog Gyonpo Dorji, the founder of the Lhakhang, meditated, as it holds great significance. From Mini Tiger's Nest, you may also have the chance to see the plane that heads or departs Paro Airport.

Then, head to the renowned Chele La Pass, a majestic mountain pass situated at an impressive altitude of 3,998 meters. Spanning between Haa (2,220m) and Paro Valley, it is the highest point along Bhutan's roads. From this elevated position, breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes await you. Clear weather may even give you a glimpse of Jomolhari, one of Bhutan's tallest peak, soaring proudly at 7,326 meters. If lucky, you may meet local people change the prayer flags and pray for their family at the Chele La Pass. It is also a good place to have a coffee break.

Descending from the mountain pass, on the way to Haa Valley, you can view Haa Dzong (Wangchuk Lo Dzong), an administrative center constructed after the destruction of the old Danzong in 1915. Currently serving as the headquarters for IMTRAT, it also houses a military school & a military hospital.

After the winding road, you will reach Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo. According to legend, in the 7th century, King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet achieved the incredible feat of constructing 108 temples within a single day. Among these temples were the White Temple and the Black Temple. These sacred structures were erected to safeguard the people residing in Haa Valley. The tale tells that during the temple's construction, King Songtsen Gampo released two doves, one black and one white, from his consciousness. These doves were believed to guide him to the most promising locations for building the temples.

Your first stop will be a visit to Lhakhang Karpo, also known as the White Temple. It is nestled at the base of three magnificent peaks located to the south of Haa Valley, where you can observe white pigeons finding refuge. During the Haa Summer Festival, which typically takes place in July each year, you may have the chance to see religious performances here. Some of our tourists have seen trumpets made from human thigh bones (Buddhist ritual objects) in this temple.

Next, continue your trip to Lhakhang Nagpo, the Black Temple, which can be reached by a 10-minute walk from north of the White Temple. This location was selected by black pigeons. Lhakhang Nagpo, built on a lake, derives its name from the color black and is surrounded by serene greenery and dense forests.

After a stroll around Haa town, head back to Paro for overnight.

Chele La Pass, Bhutan

Chele La Pass, Haa

Mount Jomolhari, Bhutan

Haa Dzong, Bhutan

Attractions

4 Iconic Sites

Transportation

Vehicle

Dining

Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Accommodation

Paro

Happiness is a place, wish you had gotten your happiness philosophy from the beautiful Himalayan country with us. It is time to end your 5-day Bhutan Group Tour. Your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport (50km,1.5h) for your flight to your next destination.

Extension Ideas: If you prefer to travel longer in Bhutan, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of Bhutan, including Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your Bhutan tour, we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!

Thimphu Dzong, Bhutan

Thimphu Dzong, Bhutan

Bhutan's National Animal - Takin

Paro Airport, Bhutan

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Airport See-off

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