Tiger Nest & Dragon Hearts feat. Punakha | Thimpu + Paro, Bhutan
About the event
Famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, Bhutan, the legendary Kingdom of the Himalayas, is a country unlike any other. Often called the last Shangri-La, this is a place where time runs slower, and the government operates by the unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
Many factors contribute to the famed happiness and contentment of Bhutan’s population, from the country’s pride in preserving its traditions, languages, and customs to the prioritization of wellbeing over material wealth. In this land of dense forests and towering mountains, incredible vistas are all around, and a connection to nature is deeply ingrained in the culture. In addition, the practice of Mahayana Buddhism profoundly influences the Bhutanese way of life, emphasizing inner peace, compassion, and community harmony.
With stupas and monasteries on every corner, spirituality is embedded in daily life here. Centuries of religious devotion have led to the creation of incredible landmarks and sacred spaces, including the country’s iconic crown jewel: Taktsang monastery, or the Tiger’s Nest. One of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas, the monastery appears like something out of a fairy tale, clinging to the rock a towering 800m (2,600ft) above the valley floor.
Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural environment richer and more diverse than it is in Bhutan, home to high, rugged mountains and deep valleys which have been recognized as one of the world’s ten most important biodiversity hotspots. One of Bhutan’s ancient names was Menjong Yul, meaning ‘the land of medicinal herbs’, and the people’s respect for the natural environment means that even today it remains pristine and mostly undisturbed.
Here we’ll discover ancient spiritual practices, trek into untouched landscapes and feel the awe of nature’s majesty in this hidden corner of the world.
[https://vimeo.com/238777975](https://vimeo.com/238777975)
Let’s go!
DAY 1:: OCT 11 Recommended departure to Kathmandu at 01:50-08:05. Connecting flight to Bhutan at 13:10.
On sunny days, the inbound flight to Bhutan is marked by panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the towering Everest. The approach through the tiny airstrip of Paro has been termed as “adventurous”, to say the least!
Arrival in the afternoon, after which we’ll check in to the hotel in Thimpu and have our first experience with fiery Bhutanese cuisine. Later we’ll visit Thimphu’s Memorial Stupa, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, a prominent religious landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Afterwards we’ll take a short 3-4km hike to Kuensel Phodrang, reaching the gigantic Buddha Dordenma at the top of the hill. The 50-meter-high, gilt gold statue fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D. and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world.
Overnight in Thimpu.
DAY 2:: OCT 12 Today we drive via Dochu-La Pass to Punakha and hike to iconic Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility), located on a round hillock on the edge of Punakha Valley.
After lunch our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong fortress, a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture which serves as a winter residence for the Dratshang Lhentshog, the commission for the monastic affairs of Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is picturesquely located in between two rivers – the Pho Chhu (Male River) & Mo Chhu (Female River) – and houses sacred Buddhist relics.
We’ll then take a walk along the Punakha suspension bridge, Bhutan’s longest, stretching 180 m (590 ft) across the water of the Pho Chhu, before checking into the hotel and resting up for the evening.
DAY 3:: OCT 13 Today after breakfast and formalities we’ll drive to the Dochula Pass (3,100m) and begin the hike to the 18th century Lungchutse Lhakhang temple (3,565m). This uber picturesque route passes through primary forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, birches, and bamboos, and occasionally…
