Itinerary
Day 011Arrival at Paro
Welcome to Bhutan:
- Arrival at Paro International Airport: As you disembark from the plane, you’ll be greeted by the stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Paro, nestled in the heart of a deep valley, is known for its serene landscapes and beautiful traditional architecture.
- Immigration and Customs: After completing immigration and customs formalities, meet your local guide and driver outside the airport.
- Transfer to Hotel: You will be transferred to your hotel where you can check in and freshen up. Take some time to acclimate to the altitude and relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
Exploring Paro:
- Visit Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that serves both as a religious and administrative center. Known for its towering walls and intricate woodwork, it’s an excellent example of Bhutanese architecture.
- Explore Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower, now housing the National Museum. The museum offers a great introduction to Bhutan’s history, culture, and religious heritage.
- Evening Leisure: Spend the evening at your leisure. You might choose to stroll through Paro’s main street, dotted with small cafes and local shops selling handicrafts and traditional Bhutanese goods.
Dinner and Overnight in Paro:
Day 022Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (4 km hike, 3120 m altitude, 2 hours hike one way) – Afternoon sightseeing in Paro
Morning:
- Early Breakfast at Hotel: Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the trek.
- Depart for Base of Tiger’s Nest: Travel to the trailhead with your guide. The drive is short, and you’ll be at the starting point of the hike promptly.
- Begin the Hike: The hike to Tiger’s Nest is about 4 km each way and takes approximately 2 hours to ascend, depending on your pace. The path is steep in some sections but well-trodden and accessible.
- Cafeteria Stop: There is a cafeteria located halfway up the trail. It’s a good spot to take a break and enjoy some refreshments while taking in the stunning view of the monastery, which appears almost glued to the cliff face opposite.
- Arrival and Exploration: Once you reach the monastery, spend some time exploring the sacred site. Your guide will provide insights into its history and the legends associated with Guru Rinpoche’s miraculous introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro:
Day 033Departure from Paro International Airport
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Begin your day with a final breakfast in Bhutan, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and perhaps some last views of the lush Paro valley from your hotel.
- Morning at Leisure: Depending on the time of your flight, you may have a few spare hours to enjoy at your leisure. This could be an excellent opportunity to:
Transfer to Paro International Airport:
- Check-Out: Complete the check-out formalities at your hotel. Make sure you have all your belongings and travel documents ready.
Airport Drop-Off: Your guide and driver will escort you to Paro International Airport. They can assist with luggage and guide you to the departure area, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free end to your tour.