The Last Shangri La Tour

Home / The Last Shangri La Tour

The Last Shangril La Tour

In the heart of the Himalayas lies Bhutan, the enchanting kingdom affectionately known as ‘The Last Shangri La‘. This mystical realm, shrouded in mystery and magic, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Bhutan’s breathtaking landscape, pristine air, and majestic mountains create a paradise on earth, where the Bhutanese people harmoniously blend Buddhist traditions with modernism. Join us on a journey to discover the raw beauty of Bhutan, where snow-capped peaks touch the sky, and ancient forests shelter endangered species. Our culture tours will guide you through the majestic dzongs and monasteries, iconic symbols of Bhutan’s unique cultural identity. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this captivating kingdom, where warm hospitality, colorful festivals, and timeless traditions await your arrival. Get ready to experience the warmth of the Bhutanese people, learn about their ancient crafts, and witness the grandeur of their festivals, a truly unforgettable adventure.

A travel experience through the capital of Bhutan- Thimphu, Punakha – the old capital, and Paro valley. Highlights in this tour includes Punakha Dzong, “Palace of Great Happiness” and Paro Rinpung Dzong, “Fortress of The Heap of Jewels” finest examples of Bhutan’s unique architecture. An unforgettable experience and hike to Taktsang- The Tiger’s Nest. The Phobjikha Valley is one of the most beautiful destinations in Bhutan, a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is the winter home to a group of globally endangered black necked cranes that arrive every year from the Tibetan Plateau. Explore the vibrant atmosphere and daily hustle and bustle of Thimphu and Paro town while also experiencing spectacular views of the Himalayan range, its snowy peaks and the lush green forests Bhutan has to offer.

Day 01 : Arrival at Paro Airport and Transfer to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro Airport, clear customs and immigration, and keep your visa clearance letter handy. Meet your guide and driver outside the terminal and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Explore key attractions, including Buddha Point, the Traditional School of Arts and Crafts, and the impressive Tashichho Dzong. Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll through the city, soaking in the local atmosphere.

Day 02 : Explore Thimphu

After breakfast, proceed to visit Buddha Dordenma, located atop a hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, The massive statue of Shakyamuni made of bronze and is gilded in gold, measures 51.5 meters in height, making it one of the largest statues, in Bhutan. 125,000 smaller Buddha statues have been placed within the Buddha Dordenma statue, and then visit King’s Memorial Chorten continuously circumambulator by people, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace. Post Lunch visit Textile Museum to experience the living national art of weaving, Folk Heritage Museum is dedicated to connecting people with the rich Bhutanese Folk heritage and rural history through exhibits, demonstrations, educational programs and documentation of Bhutanese rural life. Tashichho Dzong is the center of government and religion, site of monarch’s throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Overnight say in Thimphu.

Day 03 : Thimphu to Gangtey

Dochula Pass (3,050m)- Panoramic view of the Himalayan mountains. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.

Gangtey Goemba or ‘Gangtey monastery’- The only Nyingmapa monastery in this region, sitting on the crest of a hill on top of Gangtey valley. The monastery was built in 1613 following the prophecy of Pema Lingpa – the famous 15th-century treasure finder.

Day 04 : Gangtey to Punakha

Gangtey Nature Trail – A scenic trail of the Phobjikha Valley, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
A popular trail leading to a small hilltop overlooking Gangtey Goemba to lovely flower meadows and into Semchubara village. The trail continues through pristine forests of blue pine to the valley viewpoint where the trail ends at the Khewang temple.

Black-necked Crane Visitor Centre- The center focuses on sustainable ecotourism activities, environmental education, and conservation programs in Phobjikha valley. The building’s location allows people to overlook the wetlands, which is the Black-necked crane’s habitat.
Cycling or hiking in the valley as well as watching the cranes during the winter months. Stop for tea or lunch in a traditional farmhouse.

Chimi Lhakhang- Hike to the Temple of Fertility (altitude: 1,500m). An enjoyable hike, taking about 30 minutes through the rice and mustard fields and the uniquely decorated houses of Lobasa Village.

Day 05 : Punakha Sightseeing

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery- Perched on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Punakha and Wangduephodrang valley.
Surrounded by rich lush green pine forest the nunnery complex is a true expression of Bhutanese architecture portraying strong traditional values.

Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness)- Built-in 1637, it is said to be the most spectacular dzong in Bhutan. Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley.
In addition to its structural beauty, until the mid-1950s, it still served as Bhutan’s capital and the seat of the government. All of Bhutan’s kings have been crowned here, and it has witnessed the memorable wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to Jetsun Pema in 2011.
Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge- Measuring at 160m in length, this is Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge. Spectacular sight of Punakha Dzong and Pho Chhu Valley.

Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten (1,500m)- A leisure 1 hour hike to witness Bhutan’s finest example of tradition and architecture. A unique attribute of this Chorten setting it apart from the rest is in its architecture- designed on the principals delineate within the Holy Scriptures instead of trendy engineering manuals. The golden spire and labyrinthine wall patterns square measure fine example of art and traditions.

Day 06 : Punakha to Paro

We will drive back to Paro in the morning.

Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress of The Heap of Jewels)- Rinpung Dzong is an ancient fortress in traditional Bhutanese architecture with a complex of courtyards, temples, administration offices and open space surrounded by towering walls. All the buildings are equipped with huge windows with elaborate wooden carvings of traditional Bhutanese motifs. Paro Dzong is considered one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture and it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Bhutan. This impressive dzong is also seen during landing into Paro Airport.

National Museum of Bhutan – Ta Dzong. Originally built as a watchtower in 1649, atop a hill above the Rinpung Dzong, overlooking the whole picturesque Paro valley. Converted into a museum in 1968, its extensive collection includes astonishing antique thangka paintings, weapons and armor, and rich diversity of natural and historic artifacts.

Shagzo (Bhutanese woodturning at Sangay Wood Turning Factory) – The shagzo techniques use the age-old methods and each product is unique in shapes, sizes and colours. Learn the Shagzopa (Shagzo artisans), the essential steps in creating the elegant and functional products like wooden bowls (dapa), cups (dza phob) and plates with beautiful patterns, while keeping the ‘soul’ of the wood in it.

A stroll through Paro town.

Day 07 : Depart From Paro

After breakfast, checkout & proceed to Chele la pass considered to be one of the highest motorable passes in Bhutan. About an hour’s drive along a thickly forested road, is this Pass-a botanical paradise. If time permits visit Dzongdrakha Goemba a cliff-side temple complex above Bondey village, it takes only about 30 minutes walk to reach here. Later you will be transferred to Airport for your onward journey with Beautiful memories.