ENTER THE DRAGON TOUR ITINERARY

The attraction of Bhutan is chance to see a way of life that exists no where else in the world; a way of life that belongs to a distant past yet manages to thrive in modern times. The Bhutanese still wear traditional robes: knee-length "ghos" for the men and elegant ankle-length "kiras" for the women. Even the children on their way to and from school wear miniature versions of this national dress.

Day 1:
Traditional welcome at airport upon arrival & transfer to hotel. We start early evening with a visit to the National Museum ( Ta-Dzong ). Followed by a guided tour of the Tower of the Paro Rinpung Dzong. On the way back from the Museum, take a leisurely stroll in the Paro market and along the beautiful Paro river.

Day 2:
Drive to Drugyal Dzong and stop at a vintage point to view the beautiful Mt. Jomulhari. We visit the Rinpung Dzong - a massive fortress that houses the Administrative seat of the district of Paro. The central tower ( Utse ) of the fortress, is one of the most beautiful in Bhutan.

Afternoon : Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and check into a hotel.

Day 3:
Morning : Visit the Memorial Chorten ( a huge stupa ) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the country from 1952-1972. We visit the Painting and Wood Craft school where traditional art and craft is still kept alive. We also visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved. We also schedule a visit to the Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts are displayed and can be purchased.

Afternoon : Visit Simtokha Dzong. This is one of the oldest Monastic fortresses in Bhutan. We visit Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building. This massive fortress houses part of the government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the office and the living quarters of the Chief Abbot.

Day 4:
Early morning breakfast and then drive to Paro airport for your flight home.

OR

If you opt for one day journey extension (add $200):

Thimphu/Paro - Sightseeing : After an early breakfast, drive up to Dochula pass. From the pass, you can enjoy the most spectacular view of the Eastern Himalayan mountain ranges. Drive up to Dechencholing ( 5 Kms. from Thimphu town ). At Dechencholing, we view the palace of the Queen Mother where all the luncheons and banquets for the Head of the States and other important guests are hosted. Also, visit a beautiful private monastery on top of the hill.

Afternoon : Drive to Paro. Check in at the hotel. Drive up to Satsam Chorten ( 10 Kms. from Paro town ). From there, you can view the picturesque Taktsang Monastery " Tigers Nest "perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 800 ft.

Remember, Bhutan is also one of the most physically beautiful countries in the world. The distant Himalayas make an imposing backdrop. In the spring, rhododendron trees that reach 30 or 40 feet in height are covered with blossoms. Terraced fields are still plowed by animals (yaks or dzos). And the houses are built in a sturdy timber-frame style that is somewhat reminiscent of Swiss chalets.

Day 5:
Early morning breakfast and then drive to Paro airport for your flight home.