7 Nights Meditation Tour In Bhutan

After breakfast, you'll visit the watch tower of Paro Dzong, which is now the National Museum. The museum preserves rare Bhutanese artifacts, remnants of the rich culture and history. After this, continue to Rinpung Dzong (or Paro Dzong), which means "fortress of the heap of jewels." This particular complex has the administrative and religious headquarters for the Paro district. A short scene of Bernardo Bertolucci's famous movie, "Little Buddha," was shot inside this Dzong. From here, you can take a leisurely walk to the Pachu river and cross over a traditional cantilever (wooden covered) bridge to the other side. Post lunch; take a short drive to Drukgyal Dzong, a dilapidated fortress located around 16 km away from Paro. Although in ruins, this Dzong is a significant historical landmark. It was at this fort that the Bhutanese decimated the invading Tibetans and drove them back to their wilderness. From this place, the majestic peak of Jumolhari, the 'Mountain of the Goddess' can be admired on a sunny day (Alt. 7,329 m /24,029 ft.). On the way back, don't miss the 'Kichu Lhakhang', the oldest and the most sacred shrine of Bhutan built in 8th century by Tibetan Monarch Songtsen Gampo.

This part of your journey takes you to Taktshang monastery (the Tiger's lair). The trail to the monastery passes through patches of a lush pine forest. You will stop at the nearby cafeteria for rest and refreshments and continue the hike till you see what remains of the ancient Taktshang monastery. Built in 1600s, this great monastery literally hangs from the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic, who brought Buddhism to the land, came to Bhutan flying on a tiger.

The next day, post a breakfast of Bhutan choicest, you'll be driven to Thimpu to visit the King's Memorial (built in memory of the IIIrd king of Bhutan, who reigned from 1952-72). After paying your tribute to the Long king, you'll be taken to see the Changankha monastery, the radio tower (one of Bhutan's tallest buildings) and the zoological garden, where you can see the national animal of Bhutan-Takin. After an enjoyable session at the zoo, you'll visit the Nunnery temple, the great National library of Bhutan containing rare, ancient religious manuscripts and Bhutan's School of arts & crafts (called the 'painting school' as well). Your itinerary for the afternoon will include the Bhutan National institute of traditional medicine, a paper factory and the splendid Tashichodzong.

A On the 3rd day of your visit, your sight-seeing continues. Now you will delve in a little history at the Textile and folk heritage museums, where a myriad of objects displayed tell individual tales of Bhutan's traditions and way of living. The Handicrafts emporium there offers you a wide variety of exquisite hand-woven textiles and show pieces.
Bhutan posts: If you are a philatelist, you must have an idea about Bhutan's reputation for its colorful stamps on distinct topics. Don't forget to pick up some rare stamps and postcards. And if you have an inclination, you can visit the Bhutan National bank located nearby. After that, visit the awe-inspiring Simtokha Dzong, the oldest and the mightiest fortress in Bhutan. Come back to your hotel to relax for the day tomorrow.

Post breakfast, you will be taken on a drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass, to view the 108 Bhutanese Stupas. If the weather remains fine, you can admire the glory of the snow-capped Himalayan Ranges. After the stupas, you can further drive to Punakha and see the Punakha Dzong. Situated amid Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River, it is one of the largest Dzongs in Bhutan. You will have to take the suspension bridge to reach the Dzong. Named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), for many years till the second king assumed power, the great Dzong was the seat of the Government. The war materials seized during the Tibetan battle are kept here. Punakha still remains the winter residence of Je-Khenpo; King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk convened the novel national Assembly here only in 1952. Take a short evening hike to Chimi Lhakhang, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in 15th century. (The monk is commonly known as the Divine madman for his thought, 'Salvation through sex'). The monk tended to subdue the devils with his 'Magical Thunder bolt'. This particular Temple is also called "The Temple of Fertility". Sterile women from far and wide come to here to get blessed. Pay homage and head towards your hotel at Punakha.

During the early morning hours, a short drive to Wangdue takes you to the WangdueDzong, founded by Zhandrung in 1639. Situated on a hill commanding a breath-taking view of the valley, it is believed that Bhutan's protective deity, Yeshey Gonpo told ZhabdrugR impoche that if he constructs a dzong on this ridge, he would be able to command the entire country.
The literal meaning of Wangdueis'to bring under one's power'. Have lunch at Thimphu before driving further to Paro.

Like all good things, your Bhutan western cultural tours will come to an end. We will be happy to see you back. Do visit us because Bhutan has more to offer to you. Our representative will help you with your exit formalities and the bid you farewell.