Bhutan: Land of the Dragons (08 days / 07 nights)
Itinerary: Thimphu-Punakha-Paro-Taksang-Chele La
Day 1 France / Delhi / Paro / Thimphu
Flight from France to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi and fly to Paro. On the way you will enjoy incredible views of forests, monasteries and the Himalayan range. Arrival in Paro and a typical welcome. Then off to Timphu, perhaps one of the most curious cities in the world. Thimphu, at an altitude of 2400m, is the country's capital. Indeed, it is here that the institutions and the palace of the royal family are located. Nevertheless, the city remains quiet and restful, as evidenced by its many parks where the local population go dressed in traditional clothes. Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 Thimphu
After breakfast, departure to discover the city of Thimphu. You will explore the Motithang Takin Preserve, a small zoo where you can observe animals typical of the region. You will then visit the textile centre, where you will meet the workers who make Bhutan's famous high-quality garments. You will also visit the national archery stadium, the country's national sport. And you can watch a competition or a training session. Then, if you're lucky enough to be in the capital for the weekend, you can soak up the atmosphere at the local market. If you like, you can also buy a few souvenirs there. Finally, you'll discover the Tashichhodzong fortress, built in the 17th century and boasting some very special architecture. Lunch during the visits. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 Thimphu / Punakha
After breakfast, departure for Punakha. On the way you will discover Dochu La (3050m altitude) where you will have an incredible view of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas. You will also see some 108 stupas representing the nature and teachings of the Bouda. Arrive in Punakha and check into your hotel. You will then explore the Punakha Dzong, which was built in the 17th century and is of key importance to the country's history. Then off to Talo, the city of queens. There you will begin a short trek during which you will meet the farmers and visit their barns. Return to Punakha at the end of the day. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 Punakha / Thimphu
After breakfast, return to Thimphu. On the way, stop to visit the Cheri monastery. Then a visit to the Dorji sanctuary, where you can see white leopards, red pandas, blue rabbits, tigers and Himalayan black bears. And more than 300 species of birds live in the park. Lunch time. You will then begin your trek towards the village of Dodena. You will cross a bridge before climbing up to the very sacred monastery of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, built in the 17th century. After visiting the monastery, you will continue on your way to Thimphu. Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel
Day 5 Thimphu / Paro
After breakfast, departure for the city of Paro, where you can visit the city's most famous and interesting sites. First you will visit the marvellous Ta Dzong, which has been converted into a national museum. Then you'll visit the Rinpung Dzong, built in the 17th century and resembling a veritable fortress. Finally, you will visit other monuments built in the 17th century, such as the splendid Drukgyel Dzong. From the Drukgyel Dzong, you will have a breathtaking view of Mount Jomolhari. Lunch during the visits. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 6 Paro / Tiger Refuge / Paro
After breakfast, you will begin your ascent to the monastery of Taksang, better known as the Tiger's Refuge. The monastery is situated on a mountain more than 3,000 metres above sea level. It is one of the most sacred places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas. Here you can enjoy an incredible view over the entire Paro valley. After visiting this magnificent monastery, return to Paro through the forests and plantations of the valley. Lunch during the visits. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 7 Paro / Chele La / Paro
After breakfast, departure for Chele La at 3750m altitude. On the way you will pass through Kung Karpo at 4100m altitude. You will then walk through the Bhutanese countryside until you reach the Kila Gompa monastery, where you can share in the life of the nuns. Here you will feel a great sense of tranquillity and peaceful spirituality. In the main temple you will discover the imposing statue of Chanrezig. Return to Paro. Lunch during the visits. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 8 Paro / Delhi / France
After breakfast, and depending on your flight time, transfer to the airport to catch your flight to Delhi. End of services. Arrival in Delhi and flight to France. Arrival in France.
