A Family Adventure In Bhutan

Today, embark on a scenic drive to the north of Thimphu, where you will be able to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes that the country has to offer. The drive itself is an experience, as visitors will be able to see stunning mountain views, pristine rivers, and verdant forests that are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Upon reaching Dodena,  hike to the Tango Buddhist Institute, an ancient and sacred monastery that has been a center of Buddhist learning and practice for centuries. The hike is moderately challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys make it well worth the effort. At the monastery, you can interact with the resident monks, learn about the history and philosophy of Buddhism, and take part in traditional rituals and ceremonies.

After exploring the monastery, drive back for lunch and afterwards make our way to Buddha Point, which offers a panoramic view of Thimphu town and the surrounding valleys. Here, admire the towering statue of Buddha and learn about the role of Buddhism in Bhutanese culture and society. 

Afterward, explore the weekend market, which is a vibrant and colorful hub of activity where locals come to sell their vegetables, rice, textiles, and handicrafts. You can interact with friendly vendors, learn about the local produce and crafts, and sample some of the delicious street food that is on offer. The market is a great way to experience Bhutanese society's vibrant energy and rich culture.

Towards the evening, explore the town and meet the locals from all sections of life. Overnight stay hotel 

On the way to Punakha, you will be treated to some of the most picturesque views of the Bhutanese landscape. The journey will include a stop at the Dochula Pass, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level. The pass is adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens, which are traditional Bhutanese stupas that symbolize the mind of Buddha.You will have the opportunity to take stunning pictures of the Himalayan range and the surrounding valleys from the pass.

As we descend from the pass, we will notice a dramatic change in vegetation, from alpine forests to sub-tropical forests. This transition in vegetation is one of the many fascinating natural features of Bhutan, which has a wide range of biodiversity.

Upon arrival in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness. It is considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of two rivers, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. The dzong served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955 and is still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monastic body.

Hike to the Khamsum Yuley Namgyel temple, which is situated on a hill above Punakha Valley. The temple is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture and features intricate carvings and paintings. And also visit the Chhimi Lhakhang temple in Lobesa, which is dedicated to the divine madman, Drukpa Kunley, who is known for his unorthodox teachings and unconventional methods. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, and couples visit to receive blessings for fertility.

After a long day of sightseeing, spend the night in a hotel in Punakha, which offers a comfortable and peaceful retreat.

Today, experience an exciting adventure on the Punakha River with a morning river rafting session. The Punakha River is an ideal location for both novice and seasoned rafters, offering a thrilling experience in the midst of beautiful natural surroundings. The two-hour rafting trip is accompanied by experienced guides who prioritize safety while ensuring that visitors have an unforgettable experience.

After the river rafting, you will have the opportunity to visit Wangduephodrang dzong, a magnificent fortress constructed in 1638 to defend the country from southern invasions. This impressive structure is considered an important historical landmark in Bhutan and provides a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

A short hike to Rinchengang village will also be included in the itinerary before returning to Paro for the overnight stay. Rinchengang village is a small, quaint village with traditional Bhutanese architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, providing a unique opportunity for us to experience the local way of life.

Overall, the river rafting adventure, visit to Wangduephodrang dzong, and short hike to Rinchengang village provide an excellent opportunity for us to experience the natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and daily life of Bhutan.

A day trip to the Haa Valley is a must-do activity when visiting Bhutan. Located just a couple of hours away from Paro or Thimphu, this stunning valley offers us a chance to admire the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range from the Chele La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan.

Start exploring Haa valley by visiting the sacred Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo temples, which are revered by locals for their spiritual significance. The temples are beautifully designed, and you will be amazed by the intricate details of the architecture and art.

After visiting the temples, take a stroll through the picturesque villages in the valley to interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. We will also sample some traditional Bhutanese cuisine, which is known for its unique flavors and use of spices.

As the day comes to an end, drive back to Paro for an overnight stay. 

After the breakfast, trek to the revered Takshang Monastery is a must-do activity for all visitors in Bhutan. This ancient monastery, founded by Guru Rimpoche, is perched on the cliffside and offers a breathtaking view of the Paro Valley. The ascent takes around four hours, passing through a beautiful landscape of waterfalls, meditation caves, prayer wheels, and colorful flags that provide excellent photography opportunities.

After exploring the temple complex, lunch at a teahouse and enjoy the stunning scenery. The hike down to the valley takes around 45 minutes, during which we can further enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Later in the day, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse and try a hot stone bath, a unique and traditional way of relaxing in Bhutan. The locals believe that the hot stone bath has therapeutic benefits and can cure various ailments. We can also taste the local alcohol and participate in archery, the national sport of Bhutan.

Transfer to the airport for a flight, concluding your journey through Bhutan's beautiful landscapes and rich culture.