A 2-Night Private Tour of Thimphu & Monasteries in Paro District, Bhutan

Planning a tour of the magnificent sites in Bhutan can be overwhelming—especially when trying to make the most of your two nights of exploration there. But fear not traveler! Here’s a guide to help you get the best out of your two night stay in the spiritual Paro District of Bhutan.

Day 1: Discover Thimpu

The capital of Bhutan, Thimpu, lies in a sprawling valley between the terraced-rice fields and Himalayan peaks and your tour will begin here. Thimpu is home to ornate sacred sites, colourful markets and majestic fortresses, with something for every taste and interest.

Dochula Pass

Your first sightseeing spot of the day will take you to the 3,150m (10,334 ft) Dochula Pass. Settle into the sublime scenery from here with the 108 exquisite chortens (Stupa-shaped shrines topped with golden spires) that make for a serene start to your day.

More Points of Interest

Next on your agenda is visiting Simtokha Dzong – one of the oldest fortresses of Bhutan, dating back to 1627. Make sure you take a little while to admire its intricate architecture and 17th century frescos before moving on. Other must-see sites to tick off are the atmospheric farmer’s market in the central Thimpu bazaar, the National Library preserved by centuries-old scriptures and Bhutan’s iconic institute of arts and culture – the National Institute of Zorig Chusum, commonly referred to as the “School of Arts and Crafts’.

Where to Eat

When you’ve worked up an appetite, try traditional Bhutanese restaurants, like Wangchuk Restaurant located in town near the weekend market. The menu features both Bhutanese traditional dishes such as Ema Datshi and exotic platters, like Yak Burgers, perfect for adventurous explorers.

Day 2: Explore Paro – Monasteries & More!

The next day you’ll head out to visit some of the early-14th century sites and breathtaking monasteries in Paro. Paro’s monasteries are some of Bhutan’s most sacred sites – housing temple paintings dating all the way back to 8th century.

Taktshang Monastery

On your list will most certainly be Taktshang Monastery – or “Tiger’s Nest’ – which hangs off a perpendicular cliff at 3120m (10,236 ft), within sight of the Paro Valley and accessible only by a strenuous 90-minute hike from the starting point. Take in the breathtaking views from here before continuing on as you stop along your way back with panoramic views of Blue Poppy Fields and shimmering prayer flags.

Kyichu Lakhang Monastery

Next up is a visit to Kyichu Lakhang Monastery. About 6 km from Paro Town lies this architectural masterpiece first built in 7th century and continues to draw thousands of faithful from highland Bhutan and beyond. The Complex features an impressive display of five statues of Lamas, among other notable architectural feats.

Where to Eat

For lunch in Paro head over to Art Cafe and Bakery close to National Museum/Paro Dzong. It offers delectable pastries along with scrumptious traditional Bhutanese cuisine. The cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating for visitors – just don’t forget to sample the home-made sake before you go!

Conclusion

These are just some places that we would recommend visiting during your stay in Thimpu & Paro district. Though this is only two days there is an incredible amount that can be seen in such a short time – so fit in as much as you can! For a hassle free experience, we’d advise booking a 2-Night Private Tour ahead of time, so you can hit all these destinations with ease!

An Insider’s Guide to Thimphu, Bhutan

If you’re planning to visit Bhutan, Thimphu is a must-see destination. The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu is both traditional and modern, with a mix of ancient monasteries and new infrastructure. This Insider’s Guide to Thimphu, Bhutan will give you a comprehensive list of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, historical sites, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to ensure that you have an exciting and memorable trip.

Local Attractions

There are numerous things to do in Thimphu, from visiting museums and monasteries to trekking and experiencing the local culture. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Thimphu:

– The Tashichho Dzong: A stunning fortress that serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government, the Tashichho Dzong is a must-see attraction in Thimphu. It also houses the throne room and offices of the King of Bhutan.

– The Buddha Dordenma Statue: A massive statue of Buddha that sits atop a hill overlooking the city, the Buddha Dordenma Statue is a popular tourist attraction in Thimphu. It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in the world and is made of bronze and gold.

– National Memorial Chorten: This stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thimphu. The National Memorial Chorten is a place of worship and remembrance, and it’s a great spot to observe locals performing rituals and offerings.

– Dochula Pass: About an hour’s drive from Thimphu, the Dochula Pass offers spectacular views of the Himalayas on a clear day. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Dining Spots

Thimphu has plenty of dining options for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best dining spots in Thimphu:

– Ambient Cafe: A cozy cafe that serves coffee, tea, sandwiches, and other light bites, Ambient Cafe is a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely breakfast.

– Chig-ja-gye: A popular restaurant in Thimphu that serves traditional Bhutanese food, Chig-ja-gye is a must-visit for foodies. They serve a variety of dishes, including ema datshi (chilies and cheese), phaksha paa (pork with chili), and momos (dumplings).

– Lingkhar: A fine-dining restaurant that offers a fusion of Bhutanese and international cuisine, Lingkhar is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic night out.

Cultural Experiences

One of the best things to do in Thimphu is to experience the local culture and traditions. Here are some of the top cultural experiences in Thimphu:

– Attend a Tshechu Festival: Tshechus are religious festivals that are held in different parts of Bhutan throughout the year. The Tshechu in Thimphu is one of the largest and most popular festivals, and it’s a great opportunity to witness traditional Bhutanese dances, music, and customs.

– Visit a Local Village: There are several villages around Thimphu that offer an insight into rural Bhutanese life. You can witness traditional farming practices, see the locals weaving, and get a taste of authentic Bhutanese food.

– Learn Archery: Archery is the national sport of Bhutan, and you can learn how to play it in Thimphu. There are several archery ranges in the city where you can try your hand at this traditional Bhutanese sport.

Local History

Thimphu has a rich history and culture that dates back to the 12th century. Here are some of the top historical sites in Thimphu:

– The National Museum: Housed in a 17th-century watchtower, the National Museum of Bhutan is a must-visit for history buffs. It has several exhibits that showcase Bhutanese art, culture, and history.

– Changangkha Lhakhang: Built in the 12th century, the Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Thimphu. It’s a great place to witness traditional prayer rituals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some extra time in Thimphu, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Phajoding Monastery Trek: About a three-hour trek from Thimphu, the Phajoding Monastery offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to experience the local flora and fauna.

– Weekend Market: If you’re in Thimphu over the weekend, don’t miss the Weekend Market. It’s a bustling market that sells everything from fresh produce to clothes and traditional handicrafts.

– Simply Bhutan Museum: This interactive museum offers an insight into traditional Bhutanese life. You can try your hand at archery, weaving, and take part in traditional dance and music performances.

Conclusion

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a mix of ancient history and modern culture. With seemingly endless opportunities for exploration, this guide provides insight into just a few of the must-see destinations in the area. No matter what your interests may be, Thimphu has something to offer visitors of all ages.