Tiger Nest & Dragon Hearts feat. Punakha | Thimpu + Paro, Bhutan

Famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, Bhutan, the legendary Kingdom of the Himalayas, is a country unlike any other. Often called the last Shangri-La, this is a place where time runs slower, and the government operates by the unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness.

Many factors contribute to the famed happiness and contentment of Bhutan’s population, from the country’s pride in preserving its traditions, languages, and customs to the prioritization of wellbeing over material wealth. In this land of dense forests and towering mountains, incredible vistas are all around, and a connection to nature is deeply ingrained in the culture. In addition, the practice of Mahayana Buddhism profoundly influences the Bhutanese way of life, emphasizing inner peace, compassion, and community harmony.

With stupas and monasteries on every corner, spirituality is embedded in daily life here. Centuries of religious devotion have led to the creation of incredible landmarks and sacred spaces, including the country’s iconic crown jewel: Taktsang monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest. One of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas, the monastery appears like something out of a fairy tale, clinging to the rock a towering 800m (2,600ft) above the valley floor.

Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural environment richer and more diverse than it is in Bhutan, home to high, rugged mountains and deep valleys which have been recognized as one of the world’s ten most important biodiversity hotspots. One of Bhutan’s ancient names was Menjong Yul, meaning ‘the land of medicinal herbs’, and the people’s respect for the natural environment means that even today it remains pristine and mostly undisturbed.

Here we’ll discover ancient spiritual practices, trek into untouched landscapes and feel the awe of nature’s majesty in this hidden corner of the world.

https://vimeo.com/238777975

Let’s go!

DAY 0 :: OCT 12
Meeting at DXB T2 at 22:00 for a flight to Dhaka at 00:05-07:10.

DAY 1 :: OCT 13
Flight to Dhaka at 00:05-07:10.
Connecting flight to Bhutan at 09:10.

On sunny days, the inbound flight to Bhutan is marked by panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the towering Everest. The approach through the tiny airstrip of Paro has been termed as “adventurous”, to say the least!

Arrival in the afternoon, after which we’ll check in to the hotel in Thimpu and have our first experience with fiery Bhutanese cuisine.
Later we’ll visit Thimphu’s Memorial Stupa, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, a prominent religious landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Afterwards we’ll take a short 3-4km hike to Kuensel Phodrang, reaching the gigantic Buddha Dordenma at the top of the hill. The 50-meter-high, gilt gold statue fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D. and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world.

Overnight in Thimpu.

DAY 2 :: OCT 14
Today we drive via Dochu-La Pass to Punakha and hike to iconic Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), located on a round hillock on the edge of Punakha Valley.

After lunch our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong fortress, a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture which serves as a winter residence for the Dratshang Lhentshog, the commission for the monastic affairs of Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is picturesquely located in between two rivers – the Pho Chhu (Male River) & Mo Chhu (Female River) – and houses sacred Buddhist relics.

We’ll then take a walk along the Punakha suspension bridge, Bhutan’s longest, stretching 180 m (590 ft) across the water of the Pho Chhu, before checking into the hotel and resting up for the evening.

DAY 3 :: OCT 15
Today after breakfast and formalities we’ll drive to the Dochula Pass (3,100m) and begin the hike to the 18th century Lungchutse Lhakhang temple (3,565m). This uber picturesque route passes through primary forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, birches, and bamboos, and occasionally meadows being used as yak pastures.

When we reach the temple we’ll be richly rewarded by views over the entire span of Bhutan’s Himalayan range and its majestic, snow covered peaks. We will then make our way downhill for about an hour until we reach Dochula Pass, encountering several landmarks and stupas along the path.

In the afternoon we will have an opportunity to witness rural life in Bhutanese village, and those who would like to can experience a traditional hot stone bath. For even richer immersion, there is also the option to spend the night in the village.

DAY 4 :: OCT 16
After breakfast we’ll start our last hike, to the sacred Taktsang Monastery, known as the Tiger’s Nest, situated at an altitude of 3100m in the Upper Paro Valley. During the hike we’ll keep our strength up with a picnic lunch in the woods with spectacular views.

Our ancient destination is the abode of gods and monks, a place of great spiritualty since the 8th century. As per the legend of Taktsang, this was the site of a cave in the sheer cliff face used by mystic Guru Rinpoche for meditation. He assumed a wrathful form, Guru Dorji Drolo, riding a flying tigress to subdue the evil spirits in the area. After many centuries, a religious complex took shape here, clinging to the rock face, with the oldest temple built by a Nyingma Buddhist master around 1508.

DAY 5 :: OCT 17
Departure to Dubai (direct) at 10:45-13:40. Bye bye Bhutan!

Level of difficulty: Easy - short but steep trails. The grade may be perceived as moderate to beginners.

Activities: hiking, walking, sightseeing and getting amazed!
Altitude: 2280–3600m,

Duration: 5 days.
Accommodation & meals:
Comfy 3* hotels, double sharing. Single room 250 USD extra. Meals included.

Cost: 8450 AED incl. flights, until SEP 30.
Past this date please inquire about cost and availability.

Specifically included:

• Return flights Dubai-Dhaka + Dhaka-Paro, Paro-Dubai.
• Bhutan visa,
• All arrangements as per program,

Specifically excluded:

• Any costs related to transit visa (on arrival) in Dhaka,
• Insurance.

Visas:
Visa to Bhutan (SDF) is included in trip budget.
Visa to Bangladesh available on arrival, if required.

See yah in Bhutan x

Trekkup Bhutan Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / [docs@trekkup.com](info@trekkup.com)