Welcome to a mythical land come to life where there are no traffic lights and vividly painted phalluses adorn the sides of houses. Unlock the secrets of this isolated country on this special 5-day journey into the land of the thunder dragon.
Bhutan may truly be the final frontier. There are no traffic lights (the first roads were only built in the 1960s), television was only introduced in 1999, smoking remains largely banned, and wearing national dress used to be compulsory. Having isolated itself for several centuries, this remarkable country only saw its first tourist in 1974. On this trip, travel into the heart of Bhutan and walk across 15th century iron bridges, skirt around a thousand-foot-high waterfall to reach the Tiger's Nest hanging monastery, and visit some of the country's majestic dzongs.
Walk across one of the famous bridges crafted by "Iron Bridge Builder" Thangthong Gyelpo to Tachog Lhakhang, a 15th century temple • Visit the National Memorial Chorten, around which visitors circumambulate while whirling its large red prayer wheels
Pay a visit to Simtokha Dzong, one of Bhutan's first fortress monasteries, built to subdue an evil spirit that was harassing travelers • Learn about the curious rituals of Chimi Lhakhang monastery, built by the "Divine Madman" Drukpa Kunley who started Bhutan's widespread use of phallic symbols • Cross an iron suspension bridge to Khamsum Yulley Chorten, situated on a ridge offering dramatic views of pastoral Punakha Valley • Stroll through Punakha or relax in your hotel
Admire Punakha Dzong, restored to its original splendor after being damaged by several natural disasters over the centuries • Open a door into Bhutan's rich culture and heritage at the National Museum • At your leisure, walk to the nearby ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, visit some of the valley's holiest religious monuments, or stroll down Paro's main street
Embark on a four to five hour trek to one of Bhutan's most revered monuments – Takstang Monastery, also known as the Tiger's Nest • Stop to enjoy a picnic as you wind your way up to the cliff-side monastery during this arduous climb Descend several steps, skirt around a thousand foot high waterfall, venture across a bridge, and ascend higher and higher until you finally reach the Tiger's Nest • Recommended: relaxing with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath afterwards
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