zBhutan

Upon arrival in Paro, you’ll be warmly greeted by your personal guide. A scenic 1-hour drive through the lovely Paro Valley brings you to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. After checking in to the deluxe Taj Tashi Hotel, you’ll have time to refresh before rejoining your guide for a private sightseeing tour.
 
At the King’s Memorial Chorten, you’ll discover a revered landmark with golden spires and tinkling bells; built in 1974, it is continuously circumambulated by devout Buddhist pilgrims chanting mantras and spinning their prayer wheels. You’ll also visit the 17th-century Tashichho Dzong Fortress; with its impressive 3-story towers and triple-tiered red and gold roofs, this imposing landmark has been the seat of government since 1952. You’ll have time to refresh back at your hotel before this evening’s dinner.  Meals L+D

This morning’s exploration begins at the National Institute of Zorig Chusum, where you’ll meet young students who are learning and preserving Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts including painting, woodcarving and embroidery. Continue your foray into Bhutan’s enduring traditions at Dechen Phodrang, a monastic school that hums with the Buddhist recitations of its young students. Mingle with locals at Thimpu’s colorful market and continue to Kuensel Phodrang to see the immense seated-Buddha statue. Towering more than 160 feet, this bonze monument is filled with 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha.   Meals B+L+D

After breakfast and check out, you’ll visit the impressive Simtokha Dzong. Built in 1629, this is one of Bhutan’s oldest fortresses and features beautiful murals and an elaborately carved and painted ceiling. Then continue over the 10,300-foot Dochula Pass; on a clear day, you’ll have breathtaking 360° views over the Himalayas. The lone monastery situated near the mountain pass is distinguished by its 108 Buddhist shrines; stopping here to take in the views, you can also light a traditional butter lamp – a Buddhist act of wisdom. Then descend into the Punakha Valley through captivating landscapes of farming terraces, pristine rivers and fluttering prayer flags to visit the historic Punakha Dzong. Built in 1637 along the banks of a rushing river, this imposing fortress is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the country. Enjoy a tranquil overnight at the Uma by COMO - Punakha, our enchanting luxury lodge set on a forested hillside overlooking the Mo Chu River.  Meals B+L+D

Delight in the mountain scenery and commanding views as you travel to Paro Dzong. Founded in the 15th century and revered as one of the country’s finest examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture, this landmark also houses a monastic school with nearly 200 resident monks. Cross the Paro River over Nyamai Zam, a lovely wooden bridge, and continue to the Uma by Como - Paro, our delightful resort here in the beautiful Paro Valley. The rest of this day is yours to enjoy and explore as you wish. This is a wonderful opportunity to stroll in the town of Paro - visiting the small shops, engaging with local residents, and immersing in the tranquil and timeless pace of life.  Meals B+L+D

Today’s adventure begins with a scenic drive to Ramthanka, the base for one of the world’s most unforgettable adventures. As you make your way up the forested trail on horseback and by foot, you’ll have breathtaking glimpses of Taktsang Lhakhang, popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on the side of a granite cliff some 3,000 feet above the valley. About 90 minutes into your privately guided ascent, you’ll reach an inviting café – the perfect place to recharge and take in the fresh mountain air. About an hour later, you’ll reach the sacred monastery. On your descent, stop for lunch at the café and then continue your descent back to Ramthanka.
 
Before returning to your hotel, you’ll enjoy a privately guided tour of Kyichu Lhakhang. Dating back to the 7^th century, it was expanded in the early 1800’s with additional buildings and a spectacular golden roof. Today it is considered to be one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in the Himalayas. Your evening at leisure offers a final opportunity to stroll in town and maybe shop for gifts and mementos.  Meals B+L+D

Your private car and driver will take you to the airport today for your onward journey.  Meals B