The Devine Madman Excursion

Arrive Paro international airport. Our guide and driver will offer a cordial welcome in front of the exit gate at the Paro airport and drive to Thimphu. On the way, you will visit Tamchog monastery. Tachog Lhakhang, also known as Tachogang Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple located in Paro Valley. The monastery was founded in the 15th century by the great Himalayan yogi and saint, Thangtong Gyalpo (1385–1464). He was not only a religious figure but also a renowned architect, engineer, and iron chain bridge builder. He is credited with constructing numerous iron chain bridges across Bhutan and Tibet, facilitating travel and trade routes in the region. One of the remarkable features of Tachog Lhakhang is the iron chain bridge that spans across the Paro Chhu (Paro River). This bridge was also built by Thangtong Gyalpo and is considered one of his architectural marvels. The bridge still stands as a testament to his engineering skills and innovation. Beyond its religious significance, Tachog Lhakhang is also a cultural heritage site, reflecting Bhutan's rich architectural and religious traditions. The temple's location amidst scenic surroundings adds to its appeal for visitors interested in exploring Bhutanese culture and history. The temple is easily accessible from Paro town, located about 10 kilometers away. Visitors can reach Tachog Lhakhang by road and then cross the iron chain bridge to reach the temple premises. The site offers a serene atmosphere and picturesque views, making it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. Overall, Tachog Lhakhang stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural and religious heritage, with its history intertwined with the legacy of Thangtong Gyalpo and the spiritual traditions of Padmasambhava. Arrive in Thimphu: Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is a blend of tradition and modernity. Visitors to Thimphu can explore the Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery that houses the throne room and government offices. The city also offers vibrant markets, where visitors can find local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Additionally, the National Memorial Chorten and the giant Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5m) are popular attractions in Thimphu. We will also visit Changangkha lhakhang and Takin preserve center at Motithang. Our Guide will narrate the legend and evolution of this legendary animal that connects to Lama Drukpa Kinley. In the evening, visit Sangaygang view point and on the way back we will visit Zilukha Nunnery. Dinner and overnight in the Hotel.

After breakfast, we will also take you to Dochula pass to see the beautiful and amazing 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayas on a clear day. The pass is adorned with 108 memorial chortens, or stupas also known as known as “Druk Wangyal Chortens”, honoring the Bhutanese soldiers who perished in the war against Indian insurgents in 2003. Dochula Pass serves as a poignant reminder of Bhutan's history and the sacrifices made to protect its sovereignty. After that we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the "Temple of the Divine Madman," is another iconic religious site in Bhutan. This revered temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kinley, a beloved and eccentric Buddhist saint known for his unorthodox teachings and unconventional methods of spreading the dharma. Chimi Lhakhang is renowned for its role in fertility blessings, and it attracts couples seeking blessings for conceiving children. Kinley often preached dharma using humor, outrageous behavior, and phallus symbols to convey spiritual messages. His colorful life and teachings have left a lasting impact on Bhutanese culture and folklore, and his legacy is celebrated through various festivals and traditions. In the afternoon, we will pay the visit to old capital, Punakha dzong. It is located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, is one of the most stunning and historically significant fortresses in Bhutan. This majestic dzong served as the seat of the government until the capital was moved to Thimphu. Punakha Dzong is a prime example of Bhutanese architecture, featuring towering whitewashed walls, golden spires, and intricate wood carvings. The dzong also houses sacred relics and artifacts, making it an essential spiritual and administrative center in the region. The dzong was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Drive back to Thimphu. Dinner and overnight in the Hotel.

After the breakfast, we will take you to Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery that houses the throne room and government offices. Visit art and crafts market. You are free to wander around in the city for photography and shopping. Visit the National Memorial Chorten and the giant Buddha Dordenma statue (51.5m) are popular attractions in Thimphu. After that we will proceed to Paro for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum. It has about 3000 artifacts of cultural and historical significance. It is located at the hilltop of Paro valley above Rinpung Dzong- the Fortress of Heap of Jewels, built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1649. The current National Museum was actually built as watchtower (Ta-dzong) of Rinpung fortress to avoid the invaders of Tibet who frequently launched attacks on Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. The watchtower was renovated and converted into the National Museum in 1968 following the Royal command of third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. After that you will enter into the majestic Rinpung Dzong which stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich heritage and its commitment to preserving and showcasing its unique cultural and religious traditions. It continues to be an enduring symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural beauty in Bhutan. You have the leisure to loiter around Paro town for shopping and photography Dinner and overnight in the Hotel.

Today is the day of excitement, fully energized last night, we will take you for hiking to the Tiger’s nest monastery (Paro Taktsang) situated at the elevation of 3100m above sea level. The hiking will take about two to three hours depending on how well you negotiate the steep ascend. Perhaps, its is the most iconic and visually stunning tourist destination in Bhutan. The monastery clings to a cliff side high above the Paro Valley, and the trek to reach it is an adventure in itself. Visitors can hike through lush forests and across cascading streams to reach this sacred site, which is both spiritually significant and architecturally impressive. Guru Rinpoche also known as Padmasambhava, a great master from India is said to have flown from the sacred place called Singye Dzong in Lhuentse, located in the north eastern part of Bhutan, on the back of a tigeress to meditate in a cave for three years. Afternoon: Well will take you to Drugyel Dzong which translates to "Bhutan's Fortress of Victory" and the dzong holds great significance in the country's history and folklore. The construction of Drugyel Dzong dates back to the 17th century when it was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan. The dzong served as a strategic defensive outpost, protecting the country from invasions and providing a stronghold for the Bhutanese warriors. Its location in the Paro Valley offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, adding to its allure as a historical and natural marvel. Drugyel Dzong also holds cultural and symbolic importance for the Bhutanese people. It stands as a reminder of the country's resilience and victorious past, commemorating significant triumphs in battles against Tibetan and Mongol invasions. The dzong has been a source of national pride and has played a role in shaping the collective identity of the Bhutanese populace. On the way back we will take you to Kichu monastery built in 659 AD by the Tibetan King Tshongten Gampo. Dinner and overnight in the Hotel

After breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport and bid farewell.