The Bhutanese Arc

After breakfast day excursion to Punakha/Wangdue (One-way Approx 70 kms / 2hrs) Enroot visit Simtokha Dzong proceed to Wangduephodrang, with a stop en-route for tea at Dochu La Pass (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. In Wangdue Have your lunch and in afternoon drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, and visit Punakha Dzong (Optional and entry fees on direct payment basis) , which is noteworthy both for being one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan and also for having been built by the first Shabdrung in 1637. Also visit the Punakha Suspension bridge - The second longest suspension bridge in Bhutan , its perche cover the  Mo – chhu and Po  Chhu river and is about 160-180meters in length –its one of the  oldest bridge in the world  that connects Punkaha Dzong to the rest of the valley -  Evening back to  Thimphu  -  Back to Thimphu -  Overnight at Thimphu.

After breakfast visit the Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Dordenma). It is located at a short drive from Thimphu City Centre, Kuenselphodrang offers a good overview of the Thimphu valley. The largest statue of Buddha in the country sits here which houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues. Then visit the National Memorial Chorten built in the memory of the Third King of Bhutan and visit the Folk Heritage Museum. Afternoon transfer to Paro (7,480 ft.). On the way visit the Tamchog Lhakhang. It was built in the 13th century by Thangthong Gyalpo who is also known as the Iron bridge builder. Situated on a hill top, we have to cross an ancient style bridge to reach the temple. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening stroll around the local market shopping for souvenirs. Overnight stay at Paro.

After breakfast, drive to the base of the abode of gods and monks, the Taktshang Monastery. The monastery is a 2 -3 hours hike uphill from here. One feels truly blessed reaching the monastery. The primary Lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rinpoche’s Meditation cave in 1684 which clings to the edge of a sheer Rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress which gives its name “Taktshang” meaning Tiger’s nest. Afternoon (If time permits), visit the Drukgyel Dzong. Built in 1647, the dzong was destroyed by accidental fire and left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate. Explore the ramparts and experience an unforgettable view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 m). On the way back, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan. Overnight stay at Paro.

After breakfast check out from hotel and transfer to Phuentsholing. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or walk around the Phuentsholing town. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to NJP Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport for your onward journey.