On landing at Paro Airport after flying through an amazing vista of the worlds tallest peaks enroute, we enter into a civilization unlike any other, shrouded in mist and mysticism. Our step by step discovery of this ancient land begins from here.
Beautiful and filled with historical monuments and temples interpreted with terraced rice fields and farm houses, Paro valley literally makes the imagination run riot. It is the home of Taktshang, the most renowned Buddhist structure in the entire Himalayas, built on a sheer cliff wall 800 meters above the valley floor, the 7th century temple at Kyichu, the castle-fortress of Victory at Drukgyal, the 17th century castle-fortress at Rinpung, and the National Museum.
In Bhutan’s capital city, visit the seat of government and the office of King at Tashichhodzong Castle-Fortress, Textile Academy, Folk Heritage Museum, Academy of Art and Craft, site of the worlds biggest Buddha statue, Takin Enclave, Memorial Stupa, and indigenous paper factory. Stroll around town to see people, customs and traditions, and other facets of a country steeped in ancient values yet also embracing modernization.
At Dochula, see the spectacular Himalayan ranges. Enroute visit Botanical Garden, see numerous alpine flowers, birds and wildlife and the renowned Temple of Fertility. Visit the magnificent Punakha Castle-Fortress, the epitome of beauty and ancient political power. Also see villages, farms, and parts of Jigme Dorji National Park.
Drive to the glacial valley of Phobjikha, home of the graceful but endangered Black-Necked Crane, and the famous Gangtey monastery. Weave your way through villages, springs, waterfalls, numerous species of birds, mammals and flowers.