Glimpse of Bhutan: Visit to Dzong and Temple

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Paro

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A 4 nights 5 days Bhutan tour provides a brief yet enriching experience, giving you a taste of the country’s culture, traditions, scenic beauty and natural wonders of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.

Duration: 5 days

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Paro - Thimphu

Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge - visit Tamchogang where an ancient Iron Chain bridge stands.

Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten) - National Memorial Chorten where elderly people gather to pray and walk around the stupa.

Motithang Takin Preserve - The Motithang Takin Preserve, located in Motithang, Thimphu, Bhutan, is a wildlife reserve dedicated to the preservation of the takin, Bhutan’s national animal. The takin is a unique and rare creature, often described as a blend between a goat and a cow.

Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery - Also known as Zilukha Nunnery or Druthob Goemba, this site houses around 60 nuns. Its serene surroundings provide a peaceful atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul, making visitors reluctant to leave.

Jungshi handmade paper factory - Located in Thimphu, the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory produces handmade paper using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground - Visit Changlimithang to watch locals play archery. In Bhutan, archery is more than a sport; it’s a cultural practice rich in tradition and history, symbolizing Bhutanese identity and values.

Centenary Farmers Market - The Centenary Farmers’ Market in Thimphu is a bustling hub of activity and commerce, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Bhutanese people and the country’s agricultural heritage. The market is famous for its wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, including Bhutanese staples like red rice, potatoes, chilies, and various organic vegetables.

Tashichho Dzong - Also known as Tashichhoedzong, this prominent fortress and monastery in Thimphu serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government and houses the King’s throne room.

Thimphu - Punakha

Buddha Dordenma - Visit Kuensel Phodrang to see the large Buddha Statue and enjoy the best view of Thimphu valley with the mountains in the background.

Dochula Pass - Stop at Dochu-La Pass (3,100 meters) for an incredible view of the Himalayan peaks and snow-covered mountains on a clear day. The beauty of this place is enhanced by the Druk Wangyel Chorten – 108 stupas.

Chimi Lhakhang Temple - Known as the Temple of Fertility, Chimi Lhakhang was blessed by Lam Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman, who is a symbol of fertility. Many childless couples visit his temple for blessings.

Punakha Dzong - Also known as Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, this iconic dzong is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers. It is an architectural masterpiece with intricate woodwork and vibrant murals, making it one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan.

Punakha Suspension Bridge - Spanning 160m over the Phochu River, this bridge connects Punakha Dzong with nearby villages and agricultural lands. The bridge sways gently in the wind, adding a touch of thrill to your journey. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, river, and Punakha Dzong, making it a favorite spot for photos and scenery.

Punakha - Paro

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - This stunning Buddhist shrine on a ridge above the Punakha Valley offers panoramic views of the mountains and rice fields. The trail to the chorten winds through lush rice paddies, small villages, and across a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu River. The hike, which takes about 1-1.5 hours each way, provides breathtaking views of the Punakha Valley and the surrounding countryside. The chorten itself is a magnificent example of Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship, adorned with intricate paintings and statues depicting Buddhist deities.

Rinpung Dzong - Located in the Paro Valley, Paro Rinpung Dzong is a striking fortress and monastery with a rich history. Built in the 15th century by Tibetan Buddhist master Ngawang Chogyel, it was established to defend the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions. The dzong hosts several annual religious festivals, including the famous Paro Tsechu, featuring sacred masked dances and rituals.

National Museum - The Paro National Museum, also known as Ta Dzong, is situated on a hill overlooking the Paro Valley, adjacent to Paro Rinpung Dzong. Housed in a former 17th-century watchtower, the museum offers panoramic views and exhibits that provide insight into Bhutanese history, religion, art, and culture. Visitors can explore a diverse range of artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, religious relics, traditional costumes, ceremonial masks, intricate thangka paintings, and exquisite handicrafts.

Paro

Paro Taktsang - Hike to Taktsang Monastery, a wooden structure perched on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. The hike takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours one way. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and established the monastery when he brought Buddhist teachings to Bhutan in the 8th Century.

Namgay Artisanal Brewery - This microbrewery in Paro produces a variety of craft beers using locally sourced ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. Founded by Namgay, who studied brewing in Germany, the brewery offers a range of beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and seasonal brews, all crafted with high-quality ingredients like Himalayan spring water and locally grown barley.

Departure

Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point - Drive to the airport for your departure.

What's Included

Monument/Museum fee
Private transportation
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
A licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay
3 Star Accommodation

What's Not Included

Flight
Drinks & Beverages
Sustainable Development Fee
visa fee

Location

Paro International Airport

Our guide will be waiting outside the Airport to receive you

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0

(10 Ratings)

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1 star

Kaustubhih

Jun 30, 2024

Magical Magical and pure - We visited Bhutan for 8 days through Omsha Travel. Dorjee gave us an itinerary which was fabulous and they had penned in all our desires. We went with two children along and there were days and my daughter fell sick or lost her bottle at airport. Dorjee was very quick to arrange things for me which was not even part of his work. People in Bhutan are sooooo content, happy , ethical and warm that you don’t want to come back. Omsha travel organised the best birthday picnic for my sister - just how I had imagined and even better !! Their prices are very very reasonable compare to other agents- I can vouch for that ! Bijay - the guide - ws superb! He cooperated with when we changed the itineraries on some days due to our children etc and he is very knowledgeable and passionate. I have been to many places , but there is something about Bhutan- a big salute to the people there! Also the agency is very good and expert in organising a rustic trip or a luxury trip Or a cultural oriented trip ! We do plan to come back- hopefully next year …

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Abringeroftruth

Feb 23, 2024

It was the Trip of a Lifetime! 😊 - I made a last minute decision to visit Bhutan and contacted OMSHA Travel right after I got my visa approved. There were barely three days till my planned arrival in Paro, yet Nawang was able to finalise my itinerary, accommodations, guide, and driver within a day! His assistance and efficiency is greatly appreciated, as it allowed me to relax and thoroughly enjoy every aspect of my visit with nary a detail to plan. The accommodations he selected came with amazing views too, which also happens to be one of the features I look for when choosing a place to stay. Although Nawang was not my guide for my trip, he still made sure to check in on me every day to ensure I was enjoying myself; and even arranged a meet up to pass me a gift from Bhutan personally. The driver, Chorten, and guide, Sonam, whom Nawang arranged to accompany me on my trip were the perfect combination for me. Chorten was a man of few words but his presence was calming and his driving impeccable. I always felt safe in his car and he was always there waiting when I returned from exploring an attraction with Sonam. On the other hand, Sonam shared extensively about himself, his culture and country, and was ready to field any queries I had. I was even invited to join his family for dinner on the first day of Losar and I feel extremely privileged and thankful to have been given the opportunity to experience the peacefulness and warm hospitality at his home. Furthermore, both Sonam and Chorten were completely flexible with the itinerary, had I wish to make any changes. They also quickly learned my travel style and inclinations and even offered to make a second stop at Dochula Pass whilst we were returning to Thimphu from Punakha, since they noticed I really liked the views there the day before. It was an absolute joy having both their company from the long drives to the short hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, and also not forgetting the final hike up to Paro Taktsang! By the end of my trip, I felt like I was saying goodbye to two friends and not a tour guide and driver. For future visits to Bhutan, I would love to have them again as my travel partners! I am so glad I engaged the services of OMSHA Travel and highly recommend them to anyone planning to visit Bhutan!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Alq5387pw

Dec 26, 2023

an amazing trip with an experienced tour guide! - My husband and I had never been to Bhutan in the past. Only knew about it through some pictures online. We were a little nervous as we didn’t know what to expect. But after contacting Mr. Nawang and talking with him, we felt good about booking a tour with him. He provided everything we needed even helping us with the visa process. The process was smooth and we got to visit Bhutan for 3-days. We enjoyed the local culture, including the food, interacting with locals and hiking to Tiger’s Nest. We loved the scenery in Bhutan and totally recommend booking your tour trip with Mr. Nawang as he is very knowledgeable and took care of all the logistics. We totally recommend him and would want to have another tour with him in the future. Thank you very much!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Victorsd3047cj

Dec 25, 2023

Great experience in Bhutan. Totally recommended! - My wife and I had never been to Bhutan in the past. Only knew about it through some pictures online. We were a little nervous as we didn’t know what to expect. But after contacting Mr. Nawang and talking with him, we felt good about booking a tour with him. He provided everything we needed even helping us with the visa process. The process was smooth and we got to visit Bhutan for 3-days. We enjoyed the local culture, including the food, interacting with locals and hiking to Tiger’s Nest. We loved the scenery in Bhutan and totally recommend booking your tour trip with Mr. Nawang as he is very knowledgeable and took care of all the logistics. We totally recommended him and would want to have another tour with him in the future. Thank you very much!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Bertip

Dec 11, 2023

An amazing country deserves an amazing tour guide! - Bhutan truly is such a unique and special place. I wanted to make sure I got the best possible guide/ itinerary/ experience so I did a lot of research and sent out a lot of emails and whatsapp messages. Right off the bat, there was one agency that stood out by virtue of their prompt responses and all around helpfulness. Omsha travel was always there to answer my questions, help with the visa process and flight bookings. This attention to detail only became more apparent when the owner, Nawang Dorji and his amazing driver (whose name I am not going to attempt to spell) greeted me at the airport. For the next five days, they showed me around their beautiful country, taught me about the history and traditions of the area and were absolutely the best possible hosts. The itinerary was great with plenty to see and more photo opportunities than you can possibly imagine. They were more than happy to customize the tour, indulging my interest in craft beers and even throwing in some Bhutanese karaoke for the best night ever. I can't imagine visiting Bhutan with anyone else. 100% recommend these guys!!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Markbp169hz

Dec 11, 2023

Just what I was looking for! - What an honor to meet my guide Nawang and his driver Choiti! Both were excellent at making sure all my needs were met! They were very pleasant company, both polite and professional for my Glimpse of Bhutan Tour. December was a good time to visit because it was less crowded! We literally had some hotels to ourselves! As solo traveler to multiple countries, OMSHA Travel ranks up in the top 10 on my list! I would highly recommend OMSHA for your travel needs to Bhutan! Mark B. Retired Architect NC, USA

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Fredvictoria

Nov 7, 2023

Excellent Bhutan Tour with Omsha Travel - I just concluded my 5 day Bhutan Tour with Mr. Nawang. I am very happy to have used his services for this trip. He is very professional since the very start of my inquiry about the trip. He gave me a lot of options about the tour as well as getting my visa. The tour itself is very comfortable and well organized. The hotels and restaurants were excellent and exceeded my expectations. The sites that we visited were all very nice and exciting. He is very knowledgeable with Bhutan history and Buddhism. I learned a lot from him. His partner, Mr. Chorten , our driver was also excellent. He is a good driver and drives cautiously on the road. I felt very safe inside the car. He even would drop and pick us up at the site entrance to minimize my walking. Overall, I got a VIP treatment from both of them. Thank you very much for making my Bhutan tour a comfortable, exciting and memorable one. I would definitely and highly recommend your services to all my family, relatives and friends who are planning to visit this wonderful and extraordinary place , Bhutan!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

S425lzmartac

Oct 23, 2023

Glimpse of Bhutan :) - Day 1: Paro - Thimphu The journey began with a visit to the historic Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge in Tamchogang, where an ancient iron chain bridge showcases Bhutan's rich heritage. Next, we explored the National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu, observing elderly locals as they offered their prayers and circumambulated the stupa. We concluded the day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, also known as the "fortress of the glorious religion," housing the central monk body and the main secretariat building. Day 2: Thimphu - Punakha Our adventure continued with a trip to the iconic Buddha Dordenma at Kuensel Phodrang, offering breathtaking views of Thimphu Valley and the surrounding mountains. The Motithang Takin Preserve allowed us to witness Bhutan's unique national animal, the Takin. En route to Punakha, we marveled at the incredible Himalayan peaks from the Dochu-La Pass and the 108 stupas of Druk Wangyel Chorten. The day ended with a visit to the Chimi Lhakhang Temple, a place of fertility blessed by the eccentric Lam Drukpa Kuenley. Day 3: Punakha - Paro Our journey took us to the picturesque Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, reached after a 45-minute hike, offering breathtaking views of rice terraces along the river. We then explored the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Day 4: Paro The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the hike to Taktsang Monastery, or the "Tiger's Nest," a stunning structure perched on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. This sacred site was established by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th Century. We also visited Paro Dzong, a historical fortress that provided a glimpse into Bhutan's rich cultural and religious history. Day 5: Departure from Paro Our journey through Bhutan was truly a captivating experience, filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people. This itinerary provided a well-rounded exploration of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. During my memorable journey through Bhutan, I had the privilege of being accompanied by an exceptional guide, Nim Dem, and an excellent driver, Chorten. Traveling alone, it was particularly reassuring and enriching to have a female guide. Nim Dem's knowledge and enthusiasm added depth to the entire experience. Nim Dem's extensive expertise was evident as she shared her insights and tailored the itinerary to offer a truly unique adventure. Her creative ideas, such as arranging a white river rafting experience and guiding us to the fertility temple, added delightful and unexpected dimensions to the journey. These experiences allowed me to connect with Bhutan's culture and nature in a profound and unforgettable way. The presence of Nim Dem and Chorten not only ensured the trip's smooth logistics but also enhanced the overall journey by providing insights into Bhutan's culture, history, and natural beauty. Their professionalism and warm hospitality made this Bhutan exploration an even more rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Marta_c

Oct 23, 2023

Glimpse of Bhutan - Day 1: Paro - Thimphu The journey began with a visit to the historic Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge in Tamchogang, where an ancient iron chain bridge showcases Bhutan's rich heritage. Next, we explored the National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu, observing elderly locals as they offered their prayers and circumambulated the stupa. We concluded the day with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, also known as the "fortress of the glorious religion," housing the central monk body and the main secretariat building. Day 2: Thimphu - Punakha Our adventure continued with a trip to the iconic Buddha Dordenma at Kuensel Phodrang, offering breathtaking views of Thimphu Valley and the surrounding mountains. The Motithang Takin Preserve allowed us to witness Bhutan's unique national animal, the Takin. En route to Punakha, we marveled at the incredible Himalayan peaks from the Dochu-La Pass and the 108 stupas of Druk Wangyel Chorten. The day ended with a visit to the Chimi Lhakhang Temple, a place of fertility blessed by the eccentric Lam Drukpa Kuenley. Day 3: Punakha - Paro Our journey took us to the picturesque Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, reached after a 45-minute hike, offering breathtaking views of rice terraces along the river. We then explored the majestic Punakha Dzong, situated between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Day 4: Paro The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the hike to Taktsang Monastery, or the "Tiger's Nest," a stunning structure perched on a cliff in the upper Paro Valley. This sacred site was established by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th Century. We also visited Paro Dzong, a historical fortress that provided a glimpse into Bhutan's rich cultural and religious history. Day 5: Departure from Paro Our journey through Bhutan was truly a captivating experience, filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people. This itinerary provided a well-rounded exploration of this enchanting Himalayan kingdom. During my memorable journey through Bhutan, I had the privilege of being accompanied by an exceptional guide, Nim Dem, and an excellent driver, Chorten. Traveling alone, it was particularly reassuring and enriching to have a female guide. Nim Dam's knowledge and enthusiasm added depth to the entire experience. Nim Dem's extensive expertise (10+ years) was evident as she shared her insights and tailored the itinerary to offer a truly unique adventure. Her creative ideas, such as arranging a white river rafting experience and guiding us to the fertility temple, added delightful and unexpected dimensions to the journey. These experiences allowed me to connect with Bhutan's culture and nature in a profound and unforgettable way. The presence of Nim Dem and Chorten not only ensured the trip's smooth logistics but also enhanced the overall journey by providing insights into Bhutan's culture, history, and natural beauty. Their professionalism and warm hospitality made this Bhutan exploration an even more rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Review provided by Viator

Ashwathram

Jun 22, 2023

Amazing Trip with Nawang Omsha Travel - A Trip To Royal Kingdom of Bhutan.. Land of thunder Dragon 🇧🇹 I visited the Kingdom of thunder dragon-Bhutan which was my dream destination for a long time, I was looking for a tour guide who can really guide me to explore the amazing destinations and landmarks of Bhutan. I came across Mr Nawang Dorji - Omsha Travels , a simple humble and knowlegeable person who has a vast and indepth insights and informations about Bhutan`s History , culture , Geography, traditions, foods and a lot more. I contacted him on whatsapp from the day One he provided me will all required informations and planned a perfect itinerary for 7 Days and 6 Nights. He took care of my accommodation, transportation , food 3 Meals a day and made all arrangements well in advance. He met us a day prior at Jaigon , and took us to Phuenstoling town for a walking tour around and briefed us about the immigration procedures and it was really smooth . He was well prepared with all required documentations. Mr. Nawang has more than 9 years of experience as a tour guide and he has now started his independent venture of his Travel & Tour Guide company. I really felt a personal touch and was like travelling with a local , he shared detailed information about the historical landmarks and monuments, Agricultural livelihood of farmers in Bhutan , the season and weather conditions in Bhutan and how people of Bhutan are living with it. He is not just like an ordinary tour guide who just take you to places and drops and gives few information, Mr Nawang was really outstanding as he shared with us many intricate details of Bhutans history and evolution of Buddhism and its culture and a lot more. He took us to 5 trekking trails in 5 out of 6 days of our trip which was really an amazing experience , walking inside villages , terrace farming paddy fields, hilly paths , pine forests , little streams , waterfalls , monasteries, off beaten paths. Upon our request he also made arrangements for us to stay in a Village Homestay in village at Gantey-Phobijika Valley , it was really an amazing experience staying in a serene spot between two valleys, lush green meadows , potato farms, tiny Shops, primary school , surrounded by pine forests, clouds around with a lovely chill weather. All the hotels we really good and very comfortable cozy. I would definetly recommend Mr Nawang to anyone who wish to explore and travel to Bhutan and experience a personal and local touch of travel. Mr. Nawang is the one person whom you can definetly rely upon by just closing your eyes, am really not exaggerating as he is such a down to earth person who was really very flexible in our itinerary and took us to nice restaurants and treated us with lovely Bhutanese dishes. From day one till the last moment of dropping us at Phuenstoling Immigration he was all the time with us as a complete support and guidance in all aspect and took care of our comfort. I would really like to mention Mr. Nim Tenzin Grangden who is a close friend of Mr. Nawang took us safely to all the landmarks travelling across the hilly terrains, foggy and rainy, off-beaten roads of Bhutan in his own Hyundai Creta SUV. He is very much experienced and skilled in driving in the windling roads of Bhutan. Just a word of thanks will not suffice , as Mr. Nawang has offered a lot more with richer beautiful lovely travel experience and made our Bhutan trip memorable one in our life time. Thank you dear Nawang Dorji & Nim , my hearty wishes to you. All the best in your life.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

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