Page 20 - Nepal Bhutan Myanmar 22 Day Sample Itinerary

DAY 12 PUNAKHA/THIMPHU This morning, enjoy a 1 hour hike to Khamsum Yule Namgyel Chorten. This fascinating temple was built by the Queen Mother of the 5th King to bring universal peace in this world. The best of the spiritual art works are painted on the inner walls. There are also paintings of Buddhist teachers and tutelary deities of the country. Afterwards begin your 3 hour drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and the seat of the monarchy. Situated at an altitude of 7,500ft, overlooking the valley of River Wangchu, Thimphu with a population of 20,000 is a delightful city with traditional architecture. Some of the sights of Thimpu include the Memorial Chorten (Stupa), Tashichoe Dzong the fortress of auspicious religion and the seat of the government, Changlimithang area and the extremely colorful weekly market. From the viewpoints one can enjoy spectacular views of Thimpu city. The Simtoka Dzong (1627) houses a university teaching Bhutanese language - Dzonkha. Initially built as a monastery, the Dzong has sparkling white walls. The Monastery, located in the 3 storied central tower, is richly painted with various colorful Buddhist symbols. Exquisitely carved statues of Buddha and the eight principal bodhisattvas adorn the wall. At the Taj Tashi, Thimphu reservations for a Deluxe Room have been requested for the following 2 nights. The Taj Tashi, Thimphu is located in the center of the city. The property has adopted age-old Bhutanese traditions in its architecture. The hotel offers panoramic views of the neighboring mountains. This afternoon enjoy a 90 minute hike to Cheri Monastery. The trail starts by crossing a lovely wooden bridge that spans the Wangchu River. It was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17 century. It is believed th th the monastery was visited by Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) in the 8 century and also later visited by Phajo Drugom Zhipo (the famous Tibetan Lama who established the Drukpa Kagyu tradition in Bhutan) in the th 13 century. Enjoy a bike ride from Dodena to Thimphu city. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Overnight: Taj Tashi, Thimphu – Deluxe Room