In spite of its mythic and enigmatic nature, Bhutan is still one of the most mysterious and elusive lands on Earth.
A major reason for this is the country's location, situated deep within the mighty Himalayas, and being squeezed between two mighty superpowers: China and India. It should come as no surprise, then. As a barrier to outside influences, this small mountain beauty country did not have internet or television until 1999.
Taking a sustainable approach to tourism development, Bhutanese people know that unrestricted tourism can negatively affect their unique landscape and culture.
This concept is called "High Value, Low Impact Tourism.". Tourists from outside Bhutan (except citizens of India) are required to pay a fee to visit Bhutan.
In low season (the months of January, February, June, July, August and December) the cost is US$200 per night per person and in high season (the months of March, April, May, September, October and November) it is US$250 per night per person.
Bhutan is therefore considered one of the most exclusive destinations as it is unlikely to be an affordable destination, and you won't find backpacker-style budget travel in Bhutan. Hence, tourists aren't very numerous in Bhutan. It is a good investment because almost everything is included with the minimum daily fee, including accommodation, food, transportation, and entry fees.
One of the most memorable experiences during a visit to Bhutan is the flight to Paro. The views of the Himalayas from the air are spectacular, and the journey through the Bhutanese foothills providing spectacular views, including views of Everest (if you are flying from Delhi and Kathmandu), but the landing at the tiny airstrip at Paro is particularly memorable due to the steep turns.
As you drive through Paro, stop at Chuzom to view the stupas and marvel at the 15th century Tschogang Lhakhang. Built after Balaha visit, this temple of the excellent horse is known as the temple of the excellent horse.
Upon arrival at Paro, you will be taken on a walking tour of the market area and the main street of Thimpu after you check into your hotel. Among the stops will be a local crafts bazaar for souvenir shopping. A great deal of attention is paid to slate and wooden items, Thangka paintings, handwoven textiles, masks, ceramics, and others.
Overnight stay will be arranged at Paro.
Our morning sightseeing tour will begin with a hearty breakfast before visiting several interesting places, such as the indigenous hospital where traditional old arts of healing are still practiced, the art and craft school (closed on Sundays and government holidays) where students are taught 13 different arts prevalent in Bhutan before visiting the National Library.
We'll cover the royal goldsmith workshop and handicraft centers before lunch.
Afterwards, visit the 15th century Memorial Chorten built in memory of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
See the rare Bhutanese animal "Takin" at the Motithang mini zoo and further down, we get to see the Thimphu Valley from a different perspective. You can also visit the new Drupthob nunnery temple.
In the evening you can stroll around on your own and enjoy the leisure time accordingly.
We will be staying overnight in Thimphu.
The initial drive to Paro is approximately 57 kilometers or 2.5 hours at an altitude of 7200 feet.
After lunch at Paro, you'll begin the sightseeing portion of the day.
This tour also includes The National Museum, the only airport on the banks of the Paro Chu River (Chu means River in Bhutanese), Dungayal Dzong and Kichu Resort Valley. At the northernmost end of the valley, Mt. Chomolhari (7,300m) seems to rule in white glory.
We will make arrangements for your overnight stay in Paro
On our way to Ramthangka after breakfast, we'll hike up to Taktsang Monastery or also known as Tiger Nest Temple which is built around a cave that was home to Guru Rimpoche (also known as Guru Padmasambhava).
Located 900 meters above the valley floor, the monastery clings seemingly impossible to a cliff of rock perched on a rock over a sheer drop. Buddhists all over the world consider it a place of pilgrimage, but tourists consider it as a place that must be visited before one dies. In the average hiker's case, the hike takes almost 2 hours, uphill at 30 to 40 degrees inclined, however depending on your pace, it might take the whole day. Initially, we feel that the trail, up to the cafeteria, is never-ending, but from the half-way point on, because of the magical structure right in front of us, we are all full of energy to push further and you actually feel very close. The journey to Taktshang is finally over and you are filled with joy.
On the way back, it feels like we're walking very fast. A relaxing massage at the hotel or dipping your feet into the hot stone bath is a must after the nice hike (both available for an extra charge).
Overnight stay arrangements will be made in Paro.
Immediately following breakfast, the check-out process begins and the tour comes to an end.
In the meantime, we believe you have made a lot of memories and will cherish them for the rest of your life. At the end of the tour, we will drop you off at the airport to catch the flight back to your destination.
Bhutan is the only country in the world to have banned plastic bags. They have beautiful bags made of paper to replace them. They have not yet achieved their goal to be completely plastic bag free but very close.
Every body in Bhutan smiles all the time. It is very refreshing. They are at 65% in achieving the their happiness goal. The king is very serious at attaining this 100% goal.
Also national dress of Bhutan have the World's biggest pockets. Starting from one chest pocket, it goes round the back and comes out from the inside of the other side. PERIOD.
People carry all their personal goods and even their office files, books in those pockets. As if that was not enough, their children too can be found in those pockets.
Analysis of the trip from the person who have lived that experience.
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