The Land of the Thunder Dragon that is Bhutan is nothing less than a land of magic.
The towering majesty of the Himalayas can be seen from afar and glimpses of crimson-robed monks can be seen nearby. Many ancient temples and monasteries reflect the heritage of strong spirituality that is physically palpable in this kingdom like no other. Gain insight from the ordinary lives of its people and learn from their gentle ways the secrets of lives well lived.
The little towns of Bhutan are made to be explored on foot. Wait until you experience the serene and peaceful atmosphere of these villages and you, too, will be hard-pressed at disturbing it with the alien sounds of a roaring car. Walking will allow you to explore the nooks and crannies of this enchanting country and will lead you to secluded temple spots so beautiful that you just have to see.
First stop is Thimpu, the bustling – Bhutan-style – capital of the Kingdom. Located in the banks of the Wang Chu River, you are bound to see scenic vistas of the river as you explore the city. Walking around Thimpu is child’s play.
It will not take you more than 5 miles of walking to cover the city’s places of interest such as: Thimphu Dzong or the center of their government, School of Traditional Arts and Crafts, the National Library, the Textile Museum, the Heritage Museum and the Handicrafts Emporium.
A short drive from Thimpu, up along the Thimpu Valley, will lead you to the entrance of Jigme Dorij National Park. Here, a total of a 3 mile walk with an elevation gain of 750 feet will bring you to a hanging wooden bridge that crosses the Thimphu Chu River. Up ahead is the modest monastery complex of Cheri Goemba built on the year 1620.
It is set on a hill overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Scattered around the complex are meditation huts, mini temples and shrines where monks and their apprentices spend most of their time.
On your second day, take a long 80 mile drive to the glacial valley of Gangtey Gompa. On your way, stop by the Dochula Pass for a fantastic view of the mountains on a cloudless day. Upon reaching the Gangtey Gompa at over 10,000 feet, you’ll find the enchanting valley of Phobjikha where the 17th century monastery of Gangtey is located.
The valley is also home to the endangered species of Black-necked cranes during summer. Locally known as the “birds of heaven”, these birds are considered holy by the locals. Above the Gangtey Valley is the Pelila Pass at over 11,400 feet. You’ll pass by a logging trail followed by a cattle trail through open meadows until you reach the ridge’s end where a spectacular 360-degree view of the Himalayas awaits you.
Next to Gangtey is the fertile valley of Punakha where Chimi Lakhang or the Temple of the Divine Madman can be found. Lama Drukpa Kinley is the Divine Madman, one of the most beloved saints of Bhutan. He displayed outrageous behavior and utilized humor to convey his teachings to the people, thus the nickname “madman.”
Finally, end your tour at the town of Paro but make sure to pass by the famous Royal Botanical Garden first, where you may be graced by a possible glimpse of the rare Red PandaFollow the trail to the west to arrive at Dochula Pass then drive to the picturesque town of Paro, home to hundreds of myths and legends and Buhtan’s oldest temples and monasteries.
Explore this charming little town and soak in its beautiful lovely sceneries before you finally take your return flight home in Bhutan’s only airport nearby.
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