Bhutan Botanical Tour
Brief overview:
With 65.5 % of forest cover, Bhutan has been designated as one of the ten Biodiversity Hotspots in the world and the centre of 221 Global Endemic Bird Areas. It ranks amongst the top 10 % of countries with the highest species richness per unit area in the world; the rich biodiversity of Bhutan being inclusive of more than 120 species of butterflies (28 of which are endemic to the Eastern Himalayas), and as many as 750 plant species endemic to the Eastern Himalayas. Bhutan’s ecosystems are represented by sub-tropical forests, warm and cool broad-leaved forests, evergreen oak forests, chirpine forests, alpine meadows, and a lot more. Bhutan has the highest proportion of forest cover and protected areas as compared to any other Asian nation. To ensure the conservation of ecosystem and habitat biodiversity, the Royal Government has a policy guaranteeing that at least 60 % forest cover will be maintained at all times. In addition, 26 % of the total land area representing all climatic and biodiversity zones are under protected area management and an additional 9 % is set aside as biological corridors.
DAY 1: Arrival at Paro International Airport
The flight to Paro across the Himalayan ranges affords spectacular sights of the sacred Jhomolhari and Jichudrakey mountain ranges. And if you arrive via Kathmandu, you get to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjanga as well. Upon arrival at the Airport, you will be received by our representatives and escorted to Hotel Pema Cholling. At Hotel Pema Cholling the choice to be lodged at the Hotel or the farmhouse with facilities like luxurious hot stone baths remain entirely at your disposal. You will be briefed on the plans, logistics and other details pertaining to the tour over dinner.
Night halt at Hotel Pema Cholling in Paro.
DAY 2: Paro to Thimphu
In the morning visit the Ta Dzong or the National Museum, high on a promontory overlooking the Paro valley. This unusual round building is believed to be in the shape of a conch shell. Built in 1645, it used to serve as the watchtower for the Dzong in the past, hence the name ‘Ta’ which literally translates into ‘look’. Today it is the National Museum; it houses a huge collection of antiques of invaluable historical significance. The centerpiece of this Museum is a complex four-sided carving depicting the history of Buddhism and its propagation. One side is Sakyamuni and the great teacher Atisha, representing the Sakya School. On the next lies Geylup, a disciple of Dalai Lama. Another is Nyingma lineage, the head is Guru Padmasanva, and the final is Drukpa Kagyu with the figure of Vajra Dhara. The fact that this is the place where King Ugyen Wangchuk, the first monarch of Bhutan was incarcerated in his youth also adds to the historical significance of the Ta Dzong.
Then take a leisurely stroll across a traditional wooden bridge and a flagstone path up to Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive structure was built in 1646 and its central tower or the ‘Utse’, clad in exquisitely superb woodwork is considered the most beautiful tower in the kingdom. It houses the government offices and religious institutions as do all the Dzongs in the country. The snowy dome of the sacred Jhomolhari looms directly over the Dzong. On the way back visit the 7th century Kichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This temple happens to be one of the oldest temples in the country.
In the evening we take a 2 hour drive to Thimphu – the capital of Bhutan. The scenic two hour drive to Thimphu passing by idyllic paddy fields and villages is along a winding road alongside the Paro and Thimphu rivers. We will pass by the Tamchoe Lhakhang as well as Chhodzomsa or the ‘Confluence of the three rivers.’ If interested we can also stop at the Tamchoe Lhakhang to see the perpetually fruit bearing orange tree. People believe that the tree bears oranges all year round. In the vicinity of the Lhakhang we can visit the cave in which Drubthob Thangthong Gyalpo – the renowned Iron Bridge Builder, is believed to have meditated.
Night halt at Thimphu.
DAY 3: Thimphu sightseeing
Past experiences resulted in our coming to the conclusion that different guests have different opinions about what is interesting and what is not, about what they want to see and what they don’t. And therefore we decided that instead of us giving our guests stiff directions regarding which places they are to visit or what activities they are to do, we will leave the choice entirely up to them. Below is a list of some of the major attractions in Thimphu from which our guests can choose and decide for themselves. Our guides will always be at hand to provide you with their valuable suggestions.
- Tashichho Dzong – houses the throne room as well as the offices of the King of Bhutan, the Je-Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and other government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Central Monastic Body. The present Dzong was erected in 1968 around an older building, of which the central tower is a visible feature.
- National Memorial Chorten – was built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan. Glimpses of the Chorten in the early morning hours are indeed worthy of being deemed priceless. It is almost perpetually teeming with devotees circumambulating it because it is believed that it is a wish fulfilling monument.
- National Institute of Traditional Medicine – continues to nurture Bhutan’s reputation as ‘Lho Jong Men Jong’ or ‘Southern Land of Medicinal Herbs’ by continuing and promoting the age old healing and medicinal practices. Medicinal herbs are abundant in the kingdom and indigenous medicines are prepared here. The Institute also conducts training courses for practitioners.
- The Buddha Dordenma statue – is a colossal and the largest Buddha statue in the world seated atop the Kuensel Phodrang Mountain, directly overlooking the city and affords a fabulous view of Thimphu valley.
- The National Post Office – is where the very famous Bhutanese stamps can be got hold of to cater to all your philatelic needs.
- The Clock Tower Square – is a recently renovated square splat in the middle of the city. Fountains and miniature traditional Bhutanese prayer wheels add to making it a pleasant site to relax and chill out in the evenings.
- National Folk Heritage Museum – provides rare insights into the traditional Bhutanese ways of life within the setting of a traditional Bhutanese house. Bhutanese dances and exhibits are also held regularly inside the museum compound.
- Changangkha Lhakhang – built in the 12th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, this temple hovers over a ridge above the Thimphu valley. It is the oldest temple in Thimphu and it houses Chenrizig: a 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation of Avolokitesawara as the central statue.
- The Handicrafts Emporium – puts at your disposal a wide assortment of beautiful hand-woven and crafted products to choose from as souvenirs and gifts.
- BBS Radio tower – is well worth the ten minute extra drive beyond the Takin Reserve. It offers splendid views of the city from a hilltop festooned with prayer flags. This is where the tower for the Bhutan Broadcasting Service – the National Television channel is located
- Takin Reserve – this is only place in Thimphu where the National Animal of Bhutan, Takin (budorcas taxicolor) is found. Bhutanese call it ‘Drong Gyemtse’. Legend has it that this animal was given life by the scandalously famous Drukpa Kinley, also known as the ‘Divine Madman’. It is said that since he was offered second-rate meat than the others during a meal he commanded the remaining bones of whatever animals that they were eating to rise saying ‘looks like you we haven’t eaten well during your life time, so go and feed’. The bones miraculously merged into one and trotted off into the jungles. People believe that this is the reason for the Takin’s goat face and cow body. In addition to the Takin there are a few musk deer and barking deer as well.
- Zilukha Nunnery – the biggest nunnery in Bhutan is perched on a promontory overlooking the Tashichhodzong. The view of Tashichhodzong from the Nunnery is exquisite.
- National Library – provides a permanent home for the sacred religious books and manuscripts. The repository rooms of the archives houses an extensive collection of many rare and important documents including old records, letters, microfilms and around seven thousand important photographs. Thus the archive is the foundation of Bhutan’s National Memory Bank. Here one can also come across the largest published book in the world.
- The National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Arts and Crafts) – is a school of arts that trains students in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Tertoen Pema Lingpa, the renowned Treasure Discoverer is credited to have introduced these art forms to the people of Bhutan. These traditional crafts are a representation of the centuries of knowledge and ability that has been handed down through generations of master craftsmen and artisans and has played a vital role in shaping the Bhutan’s unique culture and heritage. The wood working, black smithy and sculpting that are taught and practiced do make for an interesting visit.
- Semtokha Dzong – built in 1627 it is the oldest Dzong in the country. Today it houses the School for Buddhist Studies.
- Dochula Druk Wangyel Chorten – was built to commemorate the bravery of the Bhutanese forces who successfully managed to dispel the Indian insurgents who had illegally infiltrated the country in 2003. The 108 Chortens were built in memory of those that lost their lives during the military operations. Because of the unique dance movements, costumes and setting, the recently initiated Druk Wangyel Festival is an exclusive treat and a must see for locals and visitors alike.
***We can also check out the National Stadium at Changlimithang for archery matches or just take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Thimphu.
Night halt in Thimphu
DAY 4: Thimphu to Punakha
Today we will drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan and today the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body. Punakha Dzong, initially named as Pungthang Dewa Chenpoi Phodrang or the ‘Palace of Great Bliss’, which was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and the Mo Chhu, this architectural marvel is the second oldest and the second largest in Bhutan. It is of great historical importance not only because it houses the precious relic – the Rangjung Kharsapani (over which many battles were fought between the Bhutanese and the Tibetans) and the sacred remains of the Zhabdrung and Tertoen Pema Lingpa, but because the Royal Wedding for the Fifth Monarch of Bhutan His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Wangchuck took place there. Each year, besides the Annual Tshechu there is a festival at the Dzong called the Punakha Dromchoe and it recalls the 1639 invasion of the country by the Tibetans who were successfully repulsed. Surreal sights, excellent views and a very calming experience await you at Punakha.
We stop en route at the 3, 100 m Dochula Pass. Dochula is home to 16 species of Bhutanese Rhododendrons. It also harbors different species of Primula, Lauraceae such as Litsea, Cinnamomum, Neolitsea, oak, Virburnum, Magnolia, Daphne, Arisaema spp. Gentian, Himalayan Acer, and many others. The Pass is popular for tourists for its ideal location from where one can enjoy 360 degree panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, especially on clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens – the 108 Stupas built by the eldest Queen Mother Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. The pass is also popular spiritual place for both locals and tourists because of an important temple that is located on the crest of Dochula Pass. We can spend some time for photography here. Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck has achieved a fine blend of history and mythology in the construction of the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang to honor His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The past and future appear to merge in the details of the Lhakhang that tells the story of a supreme warrior figure whose vision pierces the distant future.
From the pass, we will trek downwards, 30-40 minutes following the old route in order to have a closer experience of the natural forest and other biota.
Night halt at Punakha.
DAY 5: Punakha excursion
Today we drive to Tashithang, a part of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park, which also happens to be the largest park in Bhutan. Tashithang is situated in the warm subtropical zone and therefore the vegetation is mainly subtropical. Different epiphytic orchids such as Dendrobium, Cymbidium, Bulbophyllum, Coelogyne, Liparis, Pleione etc. as well as ground orchids such as Calanthe, Goodyera, Cephalanthera, etc. are found here. Wild Bananas (Musa) also thrives here. Tree species such as Engleherdia, Tauluma, Magnolia, Symploccus, Litsea, Cinnamomum, Rubus spp.
Night halt at Punakha.
DAY 6: Punakha to Gangtey Goemba
From Punakha we drive to Gantey Gonpa via Wangdiphodrang. During the drive, we will be able to see different species of Rhododendrons, Legumes, Magnolia, weeping Cypress (national tree of Bhutan), etc. If time permits, we will visit the Gangtey Goempa, an old monastery dating back to the 17th century and the only Nyingmapa monastery in Western Bhutan. Gangtey Gompa overlooks the large green expanse of Phobjikha, a glacial valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountain range. The valley is an important wildlife centre in Bhutan and is the winter roosting grounds for the endangered blacked necked cranes that fly there from the Tibetan plateau.
Night halt in Phobjikha Valley.
DAY 7: Gangtey Goemba to Trongsa
From Gantey Gonpa, we proceed towards Trongsa. From there we will take a roughly four hour drive towards Trongsa. The route is along a spectacular winding road across the 3, 300 meters high Pele La Pass. The drive will take us through the Pele La Pass whereby we come across many species of rhododendrons in shades of red, white, and yellow. After we cross the Pass we pass through bamboo thickets (Yushiana spp.) usually frequented by grazing Yaks. These kinds of bamboos grow only in the altitude areas. We will also pass by scenic villages and peaceful hamlets. The Trongsa Dzong is the longest Dzong in Bhutan. At an altitude of 7,500 feet it is a labyrinth of temples, corridors and office holding court over the local community. Protected from invaders by an impenetrable valley, Trongsa Dzong used to be an impregnable fortress. The Dzong is a massive structure with many levels, sloping down the contours of the ridge on which it is built. Because of the highly strategic position of the Dzong, on the only connecting route between the east and the west, the Trongsa Penlop was able to effectively control the whole of the central and eastern regions of the country from here. The Dzong was originally built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which was later extended by its powerful Penlops, and the sixteenth Desi Sonam Lhundub. It was the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Trongsa is the ancestral home of the Royal Family. Both His Majesty King Ugyen Wangchuk, and His successor King Jigme Wangchuk, ruled the country from Trongsa. Even today, in continuation to that tradition, the Crown Prince of Bhutan is appointed the Trongsa Penlop prior to the ascending to the Golden Throne. All four Kings held the post of Trongsa Penlop prior to being crowned King.
DAY 8: Trongsa to Ura
From Trongsa, we continue towards towards Bumthang. The Yutongla pass and a series of hair raising- bends at 11,500 feet separates the valley of Trongsa and Bumthang. Views of Trongsa valley on ascent are superb. We will make several stops en route to examine the different species, of which the most commonly seen will be Rhododendrons, Rubus, Acer, Aconitum, Delphinium, Ranunculus, Clemantis, a few species of orchid such as Coelogyne, Pleione, Cephalenthera and conifers such as fir, hemlock, Pine, Juniperus, Primulas, Androsac, etc.
We spend the evening strolling through the beautiful village of Ura.
Night halt at the camp at Ura.
DAY 9: Ura to Bumthang
Today we make an early start and drive to the Thrumshing La National Park, established in 1998 and covering the Districts of Bumthang, Lhuntse, Zhemgang and Mongar. In 2001, Royal Government of Bhutan designated one of the areas close to the Pass as insitu-Rhododendron garden. The Thumshing La National Park is home to many endemic species viz. Daphne ludlowii, Lobelia nubigena, Vanda griffithii, Rubus sengorensis, and Pedicularis spp. It is also home to some of the fauna species such as Red Panda, reptiles, amphibians and one can watch different avian fauna.
In the afternoon, we drive back to Bumthang.
Night halt at Bumthang.
DAY 10: Bumthang to Wangdi
Today we drive back to Wangdiphodrang during which we will be making stops to check for newly blossomed plants that we might have missed out on earlier.
Night halt at Wangdue.
DAY 11: Wangdi to Thimphu
Today we resume our onward journey towards Thimphu and en route we make a stop at Metsina village where we will visit Chimed Lhakhang, the temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kinley – the Divine Madman. As a Buddhist master, Lama Drukpa Kuenley is placed among the highest levels of sainthood. But he is remembered more vividly for the outrageous nature of his teachings, which were administered in the most unexpected ways, often with a strong sexual overtones and inclinations. And because the Lhakhang is dedicated to him it is considered a temple of fertility. Most of the people who visit the temple do so to pray for children – either to ask for children by those who are childless or to seek protection for children by those who already have them. There are many people in Bhutan, and indeed in other parts of the world, who will vouch on the success of their prayers.
After lunch we drive back to Thimphu.
Night halt at Thimphu.
DAY 12: Thimphu to Haa
From Thimphu, we will drive on to the valley of Haa valley which has only recently been opened up to tourists. Situated in the temperate region amidst blue pine forests, Haa used to be a very important district in ancient time as a gateway to Western Bhutan. During the drive, we will be able to see different species of flora and fauna such as Populus, Altingia, Hammelidaceae, Pine, Acer, and shrubs such as Leycesteria, Lonicera, Coriaria, Rubus. Cotoneaster, Philadelphus, Hydrangea, and many other herbeceous species.
Night halt at Haa.
DAY 13: Haa to Paro
Today we drive to Paro via the Chele La Pass at 3, 800 meters. This Pass connecting the valley of Haa to Paro was an important route from Northwestern India to Bhutan. This route has been repeatedly mentioned in most of the memoirs and written literature by British Political envoys such as George Boyle and J. C White as well as other botanists. The accounts of Ludlow and Sherriff, two naturalists who visited Bhutan as many as seven times had collected a record 21, 000 Bhutanese plants have mentioned crossing this pass during their visit in 1938. Chele La harbors one of the most exciting sites for examining Bhutanese flora. Many species of Primulas, Rhododendron, Iris, Betula, Lilies (such as Notholirion, Lloydia and Fritillaria), Saxifraga, Bergenia, Aconitum, Pedicularis, Gentians, and others are found in abundance.
From there we continue to drive to Paro.
Night halt at Paro.
DAY 14: Departure from Paro