Bhutan is the country of happiness, in local language Bhutan translates to «The land of thunder Dragon». Every day and moment in Bhutan is filled with a profound blessing and magic which will stay in your memory forever. Bhutan has the unique treasure of ancient culture, stunning and pristine mountain landscapes, rich history and a respect for nature and sustainability that has no comparison in the world. During our trip, we’ll visit the most important cultural and historical attractions of this region, and also travel a bit across the country to get in touch with its nature, to enjoy amazing views on Himalayan mountain peaks, picturesque valleys and wild forests.
WELCOME TO THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME
Bhutan photography trip
SOME FACTS ABOUT BHUTAN
- Bhutan is a traditional Buddhist high-mountain Kingdom, which is known by the high concentration of holy places. Especially of Buddhist yogis who practised high in the mountains, like the great Guru Rinpoche.
- «The land of thunder Dragon» earned the name because of the fierce storms that often roll in from the Himalayas.
- Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure national happiness officially. The index is known as GNH (Gross National Happiness). The annual report uses Gallup data and ranks countries by factors such as social, health, and environmental wellness rather than just economic concerns.
- According to archaeologists, the territory of Bhutan has been inhabited for more than 4000 years, but Buddhism came here only in the 7th century. Before, the local population practiced the shamanic tradition of Bon. The ancient culture of this region is pervaded with magic and the power of nature.
BHUTAN ITINERARY
Step off your plane in Paro, a small town west of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Flight to Paro is officially one of the most beautiful in the world, with changing mountain panoramas of the highest peaks of the planet. Your accommodation for the first night will be in the Thimphu, just 1-hour drive from Paro and situated on a 2400m altitude.
Thimphu is known for being the most modern city in Bhutan. The streets are filled with restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centres. However, it still retains its cultural identity and values. We will visit Thango monastery (13th century), summer presidential residence, Tashichho Dzong and a viewpoint on Thimphu valley.
We will travel to Punakha by bus, enjoying stunning views on snowy peaks. Bhutan is the land of dramatic mountain scenery, during this 3 hours drive you’ll be able to get a taste of the beautiful landscapes that will accompany us during our stay in the country.
Punakha is home of the gorgeous Punakha Dzong, perhaps Bhutan’s most extraordinary building, a 17th-century fortress at the juncture of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers. On day 04 we’ll do a small trek to the monastery Chimi Lakhang, visiting relics of the great wild yogi Drugpa Kunley.
Once we get to Gangtey, we’ll spend all day visiting local monasteries and sightseeing. Gangtey is located in a flat valley without any trees and wide-open landscapes. It is a rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valleys are tightly enclosed.
On our way back to Paro, we’ll visit the ancient castle Semtokha. Semtokha means «Atop a Demon». The legend associated with the dzong’s construction tells us that it was built to subdue an evil spirit that was harassing travellers in the region.
Taktsang Palphug Monastery more famous as Paro Taktsang is a Buddhist temple which adheres to a cliff, 3120 m above the sea level on the front of the upper Paro valley. Taktsang means «Tiger’s nest», the symbol of Bhutan, established by the great yogis Guru Rinpoche and his wife, Yeshe Tsogyal. On the way to Paro Taktsang, we’ll also visit Yeshe Tsogyal’s meditation cave and Kichu Lakhang, a 7th-century monastery, established by the first Buddhist king of Tibet Songtsen Gampo.
We leave with new friends and lifetime memories. We will say goodbye to our new friends and from there, take a transfer to the airport. You are free to continue your adventure on your own. Amazing places will surround you, and it will be easier for you to continue with an unforgettable experience.
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