Mystical Bhutan Tour offers in depth exploration of Paro and Thimphu, a visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the ancient capital of Bhutan and the stunning Phobjikha Valley, a famous shelter of the rare Black Necked Cranes. Mystical Bhutan Tour is for those who wish to experience the essential Bhutan and explore out of the towns to get the feel for daily life in Bhutan. Mystical Bhutan Tour trip allows the traveller to see the stunning traditional architecture and the landscape on an overland drive to the ancient capital and beyond to Bhutan’s haven for the rare Black Necked Cranes, which shelter here in the winter months. We get to explore this truly unique culture, clothing and crafts, farming and rural life, the famously spicy food and of course to learn about Bhutan’s incredibly rich Buddhist heritage! All of this, set in the beautiful Bhutanese landscape with its high mountains, lush forests and picturesque terraced fields.
Day 01: Arrival and sightseeing in Paro (2,250m )
As our flight nears Bhutan, we can enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks. At the airport, we will be greeted by a representative from Global Link Tours who will take you to our hotel. Today, you will visit Rinpung Dzong which was built in 1646 and now houses the district Monastic Body and government administrative offices of Paro Dzongkhag. We will also visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country and Drugyal Dzong, built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan's victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. Overnight in Paro.
Day 02: Paro to Thimphu (2,320m):Taktsang Monastery
After breakfast, you will hike for 4 -5 hours to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan's most famous monastery situated at 3,180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. After having explored the monastery, we hike down to the valley floor. This afternoon, we will drive to Thimphu, and spend the night.
Day 03: Sightseeing in Thimphu
In the morning, you will visit Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), nunnery temple, mini zoo to see Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. Today, we also visit other landmarks of Thimphu including the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Bhutanese traditional painting school, folk heritage museum, the majestic Tashichho Dzong and the traditional paper factory. However, some of the landmarks are closed in the weekends (Saturdays and Sundays). Therefore, if we are in Thimphu during the weekends, we explore the Weekend Market instead. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 04: Final Departure
Today we bid farewell to the tiny Himalayan Kingdom and her friendly people. After early breakfast, we leave Thimpu for Paro airport which will take us around 1 hour. Druk Air generally departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Therefore, after taking breakfast, we will be taken to the airport in the morning for final departure.