SPIRIT OF BHUTAN (8 days)
Explore the preserved culture and beauty of Bhutan on this tour through the valleys of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Wangdue. This tour is not rushed and gives an in-depth view into the ancient way of life that still thrives in Bhutan today.

DAY 01: ARRIVE PARO
On clear day, the flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan's own snow peaks, the sacred Chomolhari, Jichudraky and Tseringang. You will be met by your Bhutan Travel Bureau representative, and after the completion of arrival formalities you will be taken to your hotel. After lunch, drive up valley to Drukgyel Dzong or "fortress of the victorious Drukpa". In former times the Bhutanese repelled invasions by Tibetans from this fortress. Though largely destroyed by fire in 1951, the ruins still present an imposing sight. On a clear day, there is a splendid view of Bhutan's sacred mountain, Chomolhari from the approach road to Drukgyel Dzong. Then head back towards Paro town, en route visiting Kyichu Temple, built in the 7th century by the King of Tibet and one of the oldest two oldest shrines in the Kingdom (other is in Bumthang), reflecting the introduction of Buddhism in our country. Evening at leisure to visit local shops. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

DAY 02: PARO / THIMPHU
After breakfast drive to Thimphu, the capital town, passing through idyllic countryside, with villages and paddy fields on either side of the road. Afternoon sightseeing in Thimphu valley, visiting the National Memorial Chorten, which was built in the year 1974 in memory of the third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, within which there are finely executed wall paintings and delicately fashioned statues which provides deep insight into Buddhist philosophy; and then visit to Changangkha Temple, one of the oldest temple in Thimphu valley founded in the 12th century. Then visit Drupthob monastery, is the monastery for nuns. There are some great views of the town and Tashichhoe Dzong. Then visit the Handicrafts Emporium, which displays a wide range of the traditional handicrafts for which Bhutan is renowned. You may also be able to catch a game of archery in progress at the Changlimethang sports ground, just below the town. Take an early evening stroll around the market area before dinner. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 03: THIMPHU
In the morning visit the following: the National Library, with its extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the National Institute of Traditional Medicine show room, where Bhutan's famed traditional herbal medicines are compounded and dispensed. Then visit the Folk Heritage Museum. This house has been turned into a replica of a traditional farmhouse as it would have been equiped about a century ago. A tour of this almost- living museum will give you a glimpse into the way most Bhutanese lived then, and how rural people still live today. After lunch, visit Thimphu's National Textile Museum; is worth a leisurely visit to get to know the living national art of weaving. Then visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum which is commonly known as 'the painting school'. After that visit Dechenphodrang monastery which houses the state monastic school since from 1971. It was built in the 12th century. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

DAY 04: THIMPHU / PUNAKHA
After break fast proceed to Punakha across Dochu-la pass (3050m/ 10,000ft). The highest point on the road is marked by 108 little Chortens and prayer flags fluttering on the hill. On a clear day, there is a breathtaking view over the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas from this spot. A low- lying subtropical valley, Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and is still the winter residence of the Je-khempo (Chief Abbot) and central monk body. Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal, has played prominent role in civil and religious life of the Kingdom. Damaged by fire, flood and earthquake over the centuries, it has now been fully restored in its original splendor. After visiting Punakha Dzong take a short hike to Chimmi Lhakhang built by Lam Ngwang Chogyal the elder brother of Drukpa Kuenley in the year 1499. Overnight at hotel in Lobesa, (Between Punakha & Wangduephodrang).

DAY 05: PUNAKHA/ WANGDUE
In the morning hike to Khamsum Yuelly Namgyal Chorten. The road follows the west side of Mo Chu valley passes Phuntsh Pelri Palace and many farms and homes of Bhutan's nobility. In Yabesa, 7km from Punakha is the huge Khamsum Yuelly Namgyal Chorten, perched high on a hill on the opposite bank of the river. The Chorten, which took eight years to build, was consecrated during a three day ceremony in december1999. After lunch drive to Wangduephodrang situated at the junction of Puna tsang Chu and Dang Chu Rivers. Wangdue is a typical small Bhutanese town, and its formidable Dzong is the town's most visible feature. In 17th century Wangdue played a critical role in unifying the western, central and southern regions of the country. Overnight at the hotel in Lobesa.

DAY 06: PUNAKHA / PARO
After breakfast drive back to Paro visiting Semtokha Dzong en route. This is the oldest Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngwang Namgyal in the year 1627. Arrive Paro and check into the hotel. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

DAY 07: PARO
In the morning, take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche, founding father of the Bhutanese form of Mahayana Buddhism, arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery. Taktsang was damaged severely by fire in 1998. However it is now rebuilt and was consecrated in the year 2005. Tourists are able to hike up to the point opposite to the monastery where there is a little Chorten. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong, formerly built as a watchtower for Paro Rimpong Dzong and now the National Museum. The museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps and small natural history collection. Then after that drive down to visit Paro Rimpong Dzong situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro's monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic as the religious and secular center of all the affairs of valley. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

DAY 08: DEPART PARO
An early breakfast in the hotel, then drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.

For more information, please email tours@btb.com.bt