| DAY 1: ARRIVE PARO, PARO - THIMPHU There is no better introduction to Bhutan and the Himalayas than the spectacular flight into Paro as it passes the tallest peaks on earth. Weather permitting, you will have spectacular views of Ganesh Himal, Cho Oyu, Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga, to name just a few. Upon arrival in Paro, you will travel by road approximately two hours to the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. Though it is a thriving city, Thimphu has actively protected its strong cultural identity and the traditional lifestyle of its residents. Transfer to the Taj Tashi, where you will spend the next two nights. The Taj Tashi is in the heart of Thimphu, offering expansive views of the river valley; this luxury hotel blends traditional Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship with modern comfort, such as the extensive spa facilities that feature traditional Bhutanese treatments like hot stone baths. After settling in, begin exploring the center of Bhutan's newly minted democracy, established in 2008. Start with a visit to Simthoka Dzong, which now houses a traditional Bhutanese school of religious and classical studies. After this visit and some other introductory touring, the rest of the day is at leisure for you to relax and explore Thimphu independently. (L,D) DAY 2: THIMPHU DAY TRIP Today's full day of Thimphu touring showcases Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Begin with a visit to the central market to see the variety of produce and crafts brought by residents of the nearby valleys. Also visit the memorial chorten, a local landmark; the Drubthob Gompa Nunnery; the School of Arts and Crafts; the National Institute of Traditional Medicine; and the Handicraft Emporium, which showcases Bhutanese collectibles like wooden masks, weaving, and paintings. (B,L,D) DAY 3: THIMPHU - PARO After breakfast, return to the Paro Valley and transfer to the Uma Paro for the next two nights. Nestled among dramatic snow-capped mountains and valleys, the Uma Paro is seamlessly integrated into the Himalayan countryside, one of the last pristine mountain landscapes on earth. Though local Bhutanese artisans used traditional methods and materials to build the property, the result is a very modern hotel. No luxury is spared: among other amenities, all rooms feature spacious bathrooms, heated towel racks and even yoga mats. The one-room villas all have private spas and courtyards for absolute privacy. Using local organic produce, the restaurant serves Bhutanese cuisine melded with pan-Asian flavors and accents. We recommend scheduling a treatment at the Como Shambhala Spa, which offers Asian-inspired holistic treatments, a steam room, sauna, indoor pool and yoga room. After settling in, visit Drukgyal Dzong, which is in ruins but offers interesting insight into how these buildings were constructed. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, located in a picturesque spot overlooking the Paro River. Also visit the home of a Bhutanese farmer to learn more about the lives of typical Bhutanese villagers. Ta Dzong is a circular fortress built in the mid-17th century that is now a national museum. Nearby is Rimpung Dzong; built in the 17th century, it is now used as an administrative center and a school for monks. Rimpung Dzong houses a precious possession: a huge thangka (scroll) called Thongdrol, which is displayed on the last day of the annual dance festival. (B,L,D) DAY 4: PARO This morning, set out for a morning hike to Bhutan's picture-postcard highlight: Takstang Monastery, often called the "Tiger's Nest." Takstang clings to a granite cliffside high above the valley floor and has long been considered one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. The monastery was built in 1648 around a cave where Buddhist monks once worshipped; legend has it that Guru Rinpoche (the second Buddha) flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress to subdue the local demon. He then meditated there for three months. After a leisurely lunch with views of the monastery, return to the Uma Paro where you will have your final afternoon and evening in Bhutan at leisure. (B,L,D) DAY 5: DEPART PARO After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the airport for your international departure. (B) |