| # | Itinerary | Program |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Arrival to Paro, drive to Haa
|
Arrival to Paro. ➜ Drive to Dzongdrakha lhakhang, the ancient temple perched on the rock cliffs, which is often compared to Tiger's Nest in its beauty and seldom visited by other tourists. ➜ Form here continue drive over Chele-la (3850 m), the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. In clear weather you might see Kanchenjunga mountain to the west and holy Jomolhari peak to the north. ➜ Reach to Haa valley's Talum vilage and get accommodated in local farmhouse as a guest of villagers. Enjoy the traditional village hospitality! |
| 2 | Haa – Paro | In the morning visit to main Haa valley temple, the Lhakhang Karpo (white temple) dedicated to local deity. ➜ Then drive to Katsho village and undertake short hike up to Juneydrak hermitage. This small temple perched to the rock cliff is considered to be “second Tiger’s Nest”. The last section of climb to this temple is very steep, and you might need a support of rope which is fixed here. Place is inhabited by two welcoming hermits who will take you around. ➜ Drive again to Chele-la pass. If you could not spot the snowy peaks day before, you might have another chance now. ➜ From pass you migth either walk to Kila Gompa nunnery through ancient forest or you might drive almost there further down. This oldest female monastery in Bhutan and it offers some stunning views. ➜ Descend by car to Paro valley. ➜ Walk in lively town packed with shops, cafés and local bars. |
| 3 | Paro | Early morning drive to Drukyel dzong to see a freshly reconstructed castle and the summit of holy Jomolhari mountain in clear weather. ➜ Hike to Taktsang gomba (The Tiger’s Nest) is the absolute highlight of the tour! While the climb seems to be hard, it’s very rewarding. If you don’t feel so strong, you can cut it short in cafeteria with nice view of the temple. If you have spare strength, you might hike up to Zangtopelri Lhakhang to get birds-eye view of Tiger's Nest! Hiking in afternoon might be considered depending on your strength and weather prospect. ➜ Also visit of the National Museum in Ta dzong, the watchtower protecting the Paro castle from intruders. ➜ Drop a bit down and visit 17th century castle Paro dzong, which hosts local government offices and monastery. Scenes from Bernard Bertolucci's Little Buddha movie was also shot here. ➜ Then walk down to the old traditional bridge. You will have opportunity to try Bhutanese dress and take a beautiful photo with castle in the background! ➜ Enjoy the last evening in Bhutan! ➜ Optionally the mask dance performance along with traditional dinner in the local farmhouse can be arranged. |
| 4 | Departure | If time permits, you can drive to Bondey's village Zangtopelri lhakhang, fabulous new temple with splendid decorations. ➜ After that, you depart from Paro by flight or take ~5 hours drive to land border in Phuntsholing. |