Kathmandu:

AM: Proceed on sightseeing tour to Pashupatinath & Boudhnath stupa:

Pashupatinath temple: One of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world, Pashupatinath lies in the bank of river Bagmati. The two-storied pagoda houses a sacred lingum, or the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Although the temple dates back to the 4th century, it was brought into its present shape in the early 18th century. The temple is most noted for its gold-plated roofs and silver-coated doors. Sadhus and sages, who follow the lifestyle of Lord Shiva, are seen covered with ashes and loincloths. The banks of the river Bagmati, is also considered one of the holiest places in which to get cremated and cremations can be witnessed here. All tourists are requested that respect is shown for the grieving.

Boudhnath stupa: Also known as Khasti Chaitya, Boudhanath Stupa is one of the world's largest stupas. The unique aspect of this great Buddhist monument is that it is set in the octagonal Mandala design. Hundreds of prayer wheels and the 108 images of the Buddha set into the niches around this huge structure make it even more mesmerizing. It is believed to have been constructed in the fifth century and is said to entomb the remains of Kasyap Rishi, a sage respected by both Buddhists and Hindus. Another notable aspect of the area is the presence of about four dozen monasteries around it. It lies some eight km to the east of the city center. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu.

Paro sightseeing

The main highlight of the day is the hike to one of Bhutan’s most venerated pilgrimage sites, the Taktsang Goemba, commonly referred to as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche miraculously flew here on the back of a tigress, meditated in a cave here for three months and converted the whole of Paro valley to Buddhism. Resting at an altitude of 900 m above the valley, Taktsang is an architectural wonder and the spectacular four hour walk will be your most overwhelming experience ever.

Drive on to visit Drukgyel Dzong (the ruined fortress -17 km from the town), built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetans in 1644. Drukgyel means ‘fortress of the victorious Drukpas’. The Dzong, with a delightful village nestling at its foot, and the Mount of Jumolhari (Alt 24,000 feet) appearing as a back drop on a fine weather is an awe-inspiring sight. On the way back, stop at one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, the Kyichu Lhakhang built by the famous Buddhst Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

Thimphu sightseeing

Morning: Visit Zangdopelri Temple, Folk Heritage Museum, and the Institute of Arts and Crafts, Afternoon: Visit the Institute of Traditional Medicine, and the National Library and later drive to “the fortress of the glorious religion”, TashichhoeDzong (Open to visitors in the evening after 5:00 PM during the week days and throughout the day (morning till evening) on Saturdays, Sundays and Government holidays). It’s a majestic fortress in all its grandeur and serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government. The Dzong houses the secretariat, the throne room, the offices of his majesty the king and the ministries of home affairs and finance. Overnight at the Hotel in Thimphu.

Drive to Wangduephodrang

Visit Chimi Lhakhang in the village of Lobesa (20 mins from Punakha), the auspicious fertility temple built by the famous divine madman. It’s a beautiful 30 min walk amidst paddy fields and typical Bhutanese houses. Stop at some of the local village homes here to get a feel of the traditional Bhutanese way of living. The temple is beautifully perched on a small hill top overlooking the entire village.

Take a drive to the small town of Wangduephodrang. Right before arriving Wangduephodrang, you will catch a glimpse of the very distinctive Rinchengang village whose inhabitants are all celebrated stonemasons. Visit the impressive Wangduephodrang Dzong built in 1638 A.D and local market and later return back to Punakha. Overnight at the Hotel in Punakha.

Paro – Kathmandu:

Transfer to the airport to connect the flight to Kathmandu. Receive from Kathmandu airport and transfer to the hotel. Remaining time will be at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Kathmandu.