The East To The West
DAY1. 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 you will be greeted by our company guide who will escort you to your hotel. Your first excursion in Bhutan will be 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. Next, we visit the Ta Dzong or the National Museum, high on a promontory overlooking the Paro valley. 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. On the way back we can also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. In the evening you can explore Paro town. It is an opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the sights and the sounds of Bhutanese culture.
You will come to experience a wonderful convergence of the modern and the archaic.
You need to note that throughout the tour the itinerary remains very flexible; the choice of places to visit remains entirely at your disposal. We remain but to serve you. Our experienced guides will continually make suggestions and keep we informed about any ad hoc special events and photo ops.
Your night halt at Paro.
DAY2. Paro to thimphu with a morning hike to Paro Taktshang.
After breakfast we hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest. We can either hike or opt for ponies. Taktshang is precariously perched on a seemingly impossible rock face at approximately 3,000 feet above Paro valley. It is a very sacred pilgrimage destination as well as a tourist hotspot. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche flew there on the back of a flying tigress. The Lhakhang was built around the cave in which Guru Rimpoche meditated. The hike to the viewpoint of the monastery makes for a nice half-day excursion; the thrill of the experience and the view from up above is truly rewarding.
In the afternoon we drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The scenic two hour drive to Thimphu 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 you 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 the have meditated. Your night halt will be at Thimphu in any three star lodge or resort of your preference. Please note that guests wishing to lodge in four or five star hotels do have the option of doing so but will have to bear the extra charges themselves.
DAY3. 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 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.
- The 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 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 2004, 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.
Your night halt at Thimphu.
DAY4. Thimphu day hike to Tango Monastery.
After breakfast we will take a 12 kilometer drive north of Thimphu from where we will begin our hike up to the approximately 400 year old Tango Monastery. It takes around 40 minutes of uphill hike through a lush forest of moss covered trees to reach the monastery. Tango Monastery is a Buddhist college, and the residence of the Desi Tenzin Rabgye, a young boy who is the reincarnation of Desi Tenzin Rabgye. The name Tango translates into ‘Horse Head’ and it confirms to the wrathful deity Hayagriva in whose form Avalokiteshvara revealed himself at the location where Tango Monastery now stands. During a visit to this place Phajo Drugom Zhigpo is said to have heard the neighing of a horse and seen the horse head shaped cliff engulfed in flames. The deity said to have appeared before him in person and prophesied that Phajo would build a meditation centre at Tango, marry his spiritual consort, Khando Sonam Peldon and lay the down the foundations for the Drukpa Kagyu School in Bhutan.
Tango Monastery was founded by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa in the 13th century and built in its present form by Desi Tenzin Rabgye the 4th Temporal Ruler. It is believed that the statues inside the temple shed tears at the time of Desi Tenzin Rabgye’s passing. Even today the tears stains can be traced out on the wall paintings while visiting the Monastery. Besides, there is a Kudung Chorten, a stupa where Gyalse Tenzin Rabgay’s ashes are kept. The sandalwood trees found in the vicinity are said to be Phajo Drugom Zhogpo’s walking sticks. The Chorten beside the cypress trees is the place where Khando Sonam Peldon, Phajo Drugom Zhigpo’s divine consort, attained enlightenment.
We can spend the evening exploring the Jigme Dorji Wanghuk National Park. It is the largest protected area in Bhutan. The park is named after the Third King of Bhutan, lovingly described as the Father of Modern Bhutan who expired in 1972.
Night halt at Thimphu.
DAY5. Thimphu to Wangduephodrang with an excursion to Punakha and Chhimi Lhakhang.
After breakfast we will drive to Wangduephodrang with a stop en route stop for tea at the 10, 500 meters Dochula Pass. The Pass is popular for tourists for its ideal location from where one can enjoy 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range, especially on clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens-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 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. The road to Wangduephodrang winds down from the Pass, meandering through magnificent pine and rhododendron forests, giving you glimpses into what the term quaint countryside means in Bhutan.
In the afternoon we proceed towards Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan and today the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body. We will then visit 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.
After that we will make a stop at Metsina village where we will visit 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.
Night halt at Wangduephodrang.
DAY6. Wangduephodrang to Phobjikha valley.
We will begin the day by driving to Gangtey. We will pass through dense forests of oak trees and rhododendrons and arrive at Gangtey village where 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.
In the evening we can explore Phobjikha valley. After breakfast we will begin the day by driving to Gangtey.
Night halt at Phobjikha.
DAY7. Phobjikha to Bumthang.
After breakfast 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. At certain times of the year it is possible to see yaks. 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.
Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk was guided in a vision by the guardian deity Palden Lhamo, to go to a place in central Bhutan which resembled a bowl. Accordingly he arrived in present day Trongsa sometime in 1541 and took up residence in the village of Yueli. One night while he was meditating, his attention was drawn by a flicker of light, resembling that of butter lamp burning in the open air, at the very spot where the present day Goenkhang of the Trongsa Dzong is located. In 1543, he established a small Tshamkhang (meditation quarter) in the sacred spot and meditated there. He soon attracted a number of disciples who built their own meditation unit around the main Tshamkhang. The cluster of newly built meditation quarters gradually developed into a new community settlement and hence the name Trongsa which means ‘new village.’ We will also visit the Ta Dzong. This watchtower, which once guarded Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion, stands on a steep slope above the town. It now houses a shrine dedicated to the epic hero, King Gesar of Ling. A visit to this former watchtower will provide you with a deep insight into the significance of Trongsa in Bhutan’s history.
After lunch we will proceed to 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. Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. It was here that Guru Padmasambhava cured a local king Sindhu Raja of a spirit induced ailment in the 8th century which resulted in the whole country embracing Buddhism. And it was here that the legendary saint and Treasure Discoverer Pema Lingpa to whom the Bhutanese Royal Family traces their descent, was born. En route to Bumthang we will stop at the Yathra Centers where locally dyed sheep and yak wool are woven into brightly colored and distinctively beautiful hand bags, wall hangs, table centers, purses, jackets and a lot more. You can actually catch the women in action as they go about weaving elaborate pieces out of the dyed wool. The evening can be spent strolling through the streets of Bumthang. Bumthang is famous for its honey production, cheese, apples and apricots. Its arable land and Swiss and German Aid Projects have helped the local economy to dramatically improve over recent years.
Night halt at Bumthang.
DAY8. Bumthang 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 Bumthang from which our guests can choose and decide for themselves. Our guides will always be at hand to provide you with their valuable suggestions.
- Jakar Dzong – founded by the Zhabdrung’s Great Grandfather Ngagi Wangchuck, Jakar Dzong literally translates into ‘Fortress of the White Bird’. According to legend, when the lamas assembled to select a site for a monastery, a big white bird suddenly rose into the air and settled on a spur of a hill. This was interpreted as an auspicious omen and the hill chosen as the site for the Monastery. Its official name is Yuelay Namgyal Dzong, in honor of the victory over the troops of the Tibetan ruler Phuntsho Namgyal. The Utse or central tower is unusually situated on the outside wall, so there is no way to circumambulate it.
- Jambey Lhakhang – was built in the 7th Century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Legend has it that the temple was built to pin down the left knee of a demoness who lay across the Himalayas, and that it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in a single day. Revered as one of the oldest landmarks of the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan, this temple holds a unique Tshechu or festival. The highlight of this festival is a fire dance that is performed to purify sins and augur a good harvest.
- Kurjey Lhakhang – was built in the 17th century by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, around a rock which bears the sacred imprint of Guru Rimpoche’s body. The Guru is believed to have meditated here in the 8th Century. Upon entering, the first temple to the right, is the Guru Lhakhang which houses the cave in which Guru mediated. Beside the Monastery is a tall cypress tree which is believed to have sprouted from the walking stick of Guru Rinpoche.
- Tamshing Lhakhang – located in a village across the river from Kurjey Lhakhang, it is the seat of Tertoen Pema Lingpa. A skilled tantric master and an artist, he is believed to have personally sculpted the main statues and painted the frescoes. They can be seen even today, mostly in original state. There is also a chain mail made by Pema Lingpa that devotees carry and circumambulate the inner sanctum. The throne from which he performed the consecration ceremony is preserved in a small temple outside the main hall. The physical structure surrounding the main inner temple was restored at the end of the 19th century. Pema Lingpa’s expansive skills in building, painting, sculpture and metal work can still be seen, for the most part in its original state.
- Mebartsho – or the ‘Burning Lake’ in Tang valley is a wide spot on the Tang Chhu and is considered to be one of the greatest pilgrimage sites in Bhutan. Tertoen Pema Linga found several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures here. It is believed that he dived into the lake in the presence of several skeptical spectators with a burning lamp and later emerged from the lake with several treasures and the lamp still burning.
- Konchogsum Lhakhang – was built in the 6th century but was renovated in 1995, which accounts for its fresh look. It contained a large bell and it is said that when this bell was rung it could be heard all the way in Lhasa in Tibet. It is said that during the 17th century people from the Tibetan army tried to steal this bell but was too heavy and they dropped it and cracked it. It is now displayed at the National Museum in Paro.
- Chaskhar Lhakhang – is the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja. Because of its simplicity it looks like an ordinary village house. The original palace was built out of iron and this is why it was named Chaskhar, meaning iron castle. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by a Saint called- Dorji Lingpa.
- Thangbi Goempa –this monastery is situated in the middle of a wide fertile plateau overlooking the river. Founded in 1470 by Zhamar Rinpoche of the Karma Kagyupa Religious School, the building comprises two sanctuaries and a temple of tutelary deities. The ground floor houses statues of the past, present and future Buddhas, and three clay statues probably date back to the 15th century. On the upper floor, the foyer contains two remarkable paintings of Guru Rinpoche’s and the Buddha Amitabha’s Heavens.
*** You can spend the evening strolling through the shops at Chamkhar in the evening. Night halt Bumthang.
DAY9. Hike to Pedtsheling Goempa.
After breakfast we begin our hike towards Pedtsheling Goempa which is a sacred monastery with rich historic values. Situated on a steep mountain, it is a half days trek, roughly 3 to 4 hours, from Jakar. The trek starts off at a mild pace but later gains momentum. Along the trek route, travelers are gifted with breathtaking views of the valley and large species of flora and fauna. About two thirds of the way, there is a beautiful meadow which is a perfect picnic spot. The last part of the hike requires more uphill trek until the destination is eventually in sight. If interested, we can also hike beyond the monastery across the ridge and savor the magical experience of the crisp, chilly mountain air. We can spend the evening relaxing in town.
Night halt at Bumthang.
DAY10. Bumthang to Mongar.
After an early breakfast we set out for a fantastic drive through one of the most impressive nature surroundings of Bhutan to Mongar. It’s a long but scenic drive to across Thrumshing La, which at 3,800 meters, is one of the highest Passes. After the first one and a half hours drive we will stop at Ura village for tea. The road beyond leads through the Trumshing La National Park. The National Park is located on altitudes between 700 and 4400 meters and is made up of coniferous forests. En route we will stop for a picnic lunch at the picturesque Sengor village. The afternoon drive follows a windy and steep road along cliffs and eventually descends down to 650 meters, where you find subtropical jungles and a rich vegetation. Gushing waterfalls, steep cliffs with even steeper drops and constantly changing vegetation combine to make this journey as varied as it is beautiful. On the way you are likely to see come across the endangered Red Panda, Golden Langurs and Himalayan Black Bear. After having reached Kuri Zampa which is almost on the very base on the lowest point of the valley we start climbing up to Mongar for the last hour and reach the hotel late in the afternoon. Mongar is the first town built on a slope instead of a valley. This is characteristic in eastern Bhutan where there are few valleys. In the evening we can leisurely loiter around town and savor the experience of being in the real homeland of the Eastern People or the ‘Sharchogpas’ as they are referred to by the locals.
Night halt at Mongar.
DAY11. Excursion to Lhuntse.
After an early breakfast we head out for Lhuntse. Located in the northeast, Lhuntse is one of the least developed and most isolated districts in Bhutan. The landscape is spectacular, with stark cliffs towering above river gorges and dense coniferous forests. There are few roads; the first gas station was opened as recently as September 2005, electricity is not well distributed and the difficult terrain makes distribution of social welfare difficult. Despite its favorable climate, farming is also hindered by the difficult infrastructure. But nevertheless the region is famous for its weavers, and their distinctive textiles are considered to be best in the country. Weaving is a central enterprise in Lhuntse and many of the highest quality and expensive textiles are produced here. The Kurtoe region of Lhuentse is also the ancestral home of the monarchy. Lhuntse Dzong which sits high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Kuri Chu Valley is one of the most picturesque in Bhutan. Although, this place was originally established in 1543 by Kunga Wangpo, son of Terton Pema Lingpa, it was Tongsa Penlop, Minjur Tenpa who built a formal Dzong in 1654 after winning a battle in the region.
In the evening, we will walk around town and experience the magic of rural life, untainted by the ills of modernity.
Night halt at Mongar.
DAY12. Mongar to Trashigang.
After breakfast we head towards the very remote East, crossing the 2400 meters high Kori La. Following the famous Yadi curves we descend down to Sherichhu at 600 metres, switching to the other side of the valley of the Drangme Chhu, leading to the dramatically situated Trashigang Dzong. Once again, we first have to descend down to the river and cross Cha Zam bridge before beginning our climb up to Trashigang, situated high above the river at 1070 meters. The town has an attractive ambience, with its painted houses amid flowering bougainvilleas and its tiny shops and cafes. This town is also the principal market place for the uniquely attired semi-nomadic people of Merak and Sakteng.
Trashigang Dzong is also called as “Dzong of Auspicious Mount”. It overlooks the Dangme chhu which flows at its base. It is accessible only from the north, through a slender road, paved by blasting the cliff. Due to its location Trashigang Dzong is one of the most strategically placed Dzongs in Bhutan. The Dzong was founded according to the prophecies of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in order to consolidate indomitable power and unparalleled reign over the whole of the eastern regions. It was built at the behest of Chhoje Minjur Tempa, the Third Druk Desi.
Night halt at Trashigang.
DAY13. Excursion to Trashiyangtse.
After breakfast we will visit Trashiyangtse which is a small river valley and a lovely spot from which to take walks in the surrounding countryside. In the past, Trashi Yangtse was the gate way between Tibet and the neighboring Indian states, via Arunachal Pradesh. The Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in this district and this is also the winter roosting grounds for the endangered black necked cranes. One can also come across tigers, red pandas and leopards. The Trashi Yangtse Dzong, overlooking the town was built in the late 1990s when the new district was created. Trashi Yangtse is famous for its wooden containers and bowls, which make inexpensive, attractive yet useful mementos of visits to this remote region. Just below the town is the famous Chorten Kora. The temple is the biggest and the oldest in the whole of Bhutan. Set against the cliff and beside a crystal-clear river, it is patterned on the Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu. It was constructed in 1740 by Lama Ngawang Loday. It is one of the famous places where Guru Padsambhava had meditated in order to subdue a demon that dwelt in big rock. One can see the impression of his thumb, hat, and body on the rock. During the second month of Bhutanese lunar calendar, one of the most ancient festivals in the whole of Bhutan, popularly known as Chorten Kora, is held here. The old and the young alike make rounds of the stupa and temples in the vicinity to earn merit and good health. Many people from the neighboring Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh visit the festival every year and so do the uniquely attired people from Merak and Sakten.
On the way we can also visit the abandoned iron-chain link bridge built by Drubthob Thangthong Gyalpo in the 15th century. Dupthob Thangthong Gyalpo is believed to be the first to use heavy iron chains to construct suspension bridges. He built 108 bridges in Tibet and Bhutan. He came to Bhutan in 1433 and built eight iron bridges in different parts of the country.
In the evening we can take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Trashigang and shop for gifts and souvenirs.
Night halt at Trashigang.
DAY14. Trashigang to Samdrupjongkhar.
Today we resume our onward journey towards Samdrupjongkhar. Shortly after leaving Trashigang the road winds up through the terraced fields to Kanglung where the first ever college in the country is located. After crossing the Yonphula Pass at 2, 190 meters we will arrive at the Institute for the Disabled and the National Handloom Development Project in Khaling. Then as we continue our journey, curling around ridges and narrow valleys, we will arrive at the pleasant town of Wamrong where we will stop for lunch. After lunch the descent resumes to the stretch of road called Melong Brak where the road is cut through sheer cliff and is known to petrify commuters who have a fear of heights. The descent continues via Narphung till the final one just before reaching Dewathang. Dewathang is largely dominated by army camps with a few shops and temporary shelters for the road workers. From Dewathang it will take us around half an hour to the valley floor where the vegetation changes almost abruptly to Sal and Teak forests as we enter Samdrup Jongkhar. Situated in the south eastern part, Samdrup Jongkhar is the gate way to Eastern Bhutan and shares borders with the Indian state of Assam. It is a bustling small town with shopkeepers and hawkers from the nearby border of Assam. In the earlier past, many British Political Officers stationed in Sikkim took the route from Samdrup Jongkhar to enter into Bhutan. Samdrup Jongkhar is a convenient exit town for tourists who have arranged to visit the neighboring Indian state of Assam.
Night halt at Samdrupjongkhar.
Please note that guests wishing to lodge in four or five star hotels do have the option of doing so but will have to bear the extra charges themselves and also the ‘hot stone baths’ and cultural programs are not included in the total cost of the trip.
DAY15. Samdrupjongkhar to Guwahati(INDIA).
We will proceed to Guwahati(INDIA) and drop you off to wherever you have made your travel arrangements