On a clear day, the flight to Paro is breath-taking, with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. On arrival at Paro airport and after completion of airport formalities, you will be met by your Guide. Drive from Paro to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan and an exciting blend of tradition and modernity. Visit Iron Bridge on the way to Thimphu.
On arrival, check-in at the hotel. In the late afternoon, drive to Kuensel Phodrang, (Buddha Point) which is a place from where one can get a complete view of the town of Thimphu. The view point has the largest statue of the Buddha. Drive back to town and visit at National Memorial Chorten: The building of this landmark was envisaged by the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the Father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument to world peace. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Visit to the Tashichhoe Dzong: The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichho Dzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during the Thimphu Tsechu (held in autumn) and while the monk body is resident in its winter quarters at Punakha Dzong. In the evening, take a stroll along the town’s main street. (Overnight at Thimphu)