Six Senses Bhutan

Six Senses Bhutan

Bhutan is often referred to as the Last Shangri-La, protected from the rest of the world by the mighty Himalays and left blissfully untouched. The Drukpa Kagyupa sect of Mahayana Buddhism provided the essence of a rich culture and fascinating history and for centuries the Bhutanese people protected their sacred heritage and unique identity by choosing to remain in fiercely guarded isolation. 

Bhutan has only been open to foreign visitors since 1974 and remains a relatively unvisited destination. This wonderful Himalayan Kingdom and country of rolling hills and towering crags certainly exudes charm. The mountains are magnificent, the forests are dense, the people are delightful, the air is pure, the architecture inspiring, the religion exciting and the art superb. Like timeless images from the past, travellers encounter the unique glory of this ancient land through its strategic fortresses (known as Dzongs), numerous ancient temples, monasteries and stupas which dot the countryside, prayer flags which flutter along the high ridges, rich wildlife in dense forests, foamy white waterfalls and the warm welcomes of its friendly people. With its beautiful and largely unspoiled Himalayan setting, its rich flora and fauna and its vibrant Buddhist culture, Bhutan is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international tourists. 

Enjoy this wonderful short exploration of Bhutan, where you'll experience the rich local culture and immerse yourself in stunning Himalayan landscapes. As well as exceptional local guides, you'll be staying at truly wonderful luxury Six Senses lodges throughout and visiting key sites and lesser known highlights.

Located amidst pine forests and apple orchards with views over Thimphu, Six Senses Thimphu is a stylish luxury lodge in an amazing location. Six Senses Punakha is a luxury rural lodge located in the lush Punakha Valley, set amidst rice fields. Six Senses Paro is another beautiful luxury lodge, surrounded by forests and moutain peaks, with wonderful views over the beautiful Paro Valley.

Itinerary

• Day 01

  Arrive Paro (2250m) and drive to Thimphu (2320m)

  The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in the entire Himalayas. Flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the Himalayan foothills if flying over Kolkatta, the journey offers fascinating views and an exciting descent into the Kingdom. Bhutan’s first gift to you as you disembark from the aircraft will be cool, clean fresh mountain air. After immigration formalities and baggage collection you'll be welcomed by one of our local representatives with a ‘tashi khaddar’ (a white scarf offering to the guest which is an auspicious way to welcome guests), before you begin the drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan. The drive is around one and a half hours through the the beautiful Paro valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers at Chuzom. Shortly before reaching Chuzom, you'll see on your left, Tamchog Lhakhang, the temple built by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer who introduced the construction of suspension bridges into Bhutan and Tibet (several of which are still in use today). The present bridge to Tamchog Lhakhang was restored in 2005 in the design of a traditional style with iron chains and crossing this bridge is a wonderful experience. On arrival, in Thimphu check-into the beautiful Six Senses Thimphu lodge. 

  
  

  Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, is a unique city with an unusual mix of modern development alongside ancient traditions. It is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without road traffic lights. After time to get refreshed, later this afternoon you'll meet your guide for a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a large white structure crowned with a golden spire, located close to the center of Thimphu city and one of its most iconic monuments. This is an ideal spot to interact with locals who throng in large numbers to circumnambulate the chorten, whirl the large red prayer wheels and pray at a small shrine inside the gate. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy. After, enjoy a leisurely walk around Thimphu main street and market area to get to know the local area., including a chance to explore KaJa Thorm. Previously known as the Centenary Farmers Market (CFM), KaJa Throm marks a significant transformation in Thimphu’s urban landscape and is designated as the Market Quarter where leisure, culture, knowledge, employment, and tourism economies converge. It's a vibrant and bustling market are where the modern and traditional elements of Bhutanese life converge. Whether you're seeking local handicrafts, farm products, to savour local cuisine or simply a place to soak in the atmosphere, KaJa Throm provides a quintessential Thimphu experience. Rest and relax overnight at Six Senses Thimphu. 

• Day 02

  Thimphu (2320m)

  This morning begins with a short drive north to reach the Buddha Dordenma, situated atop a hill within the serene Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. This remarkable statue brings to life an ancient prophecy originating from the 8th century A.D., unearthed by Terton Pema Lingpa, a discoverer of religious treasures. It is believed that the statue emits an aura of tranquillity and joy, extending its influence on the entire world. Crafted from bronze and adorned with a layer of golden gilding, this colossal Shakyamuni statue stands at a towering height of 51.5 meters, solidifying its position as one of Bhutan's largest statues. Within the Buddha Dordenma statue itself, an astonishing 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, also cast in bronze and gilded, have been meticulously arranged. While at Buddha Point, you'll also have the option to engage in meditation at a specially designated area. After your visit to Buddha Dordenma, it's an easy walk or short hike of around one and a half hours to Changangkha Lhakhang. Following the trail with your guide, you'll be greeted by a magnificent sight of thousands of prayer flags waving in the breeze, creating a colourful and spiritual welcome. The trail leads you through pristine forest of tall pines, birch trees, and vibrant rhododendrons. The entire trail is well-maintained and along the way, you'll come across charming gazebos, providing perfect vantage points. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple holding a rich history and dating back to its establishment by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo. This revered Lama from Tibet, is regarded as the founder of the Drukpa lineage in Bhutan. The temple's construction began in the 12th century and was further extended in the 13th century. At the heart of Changangkha Lhakhang resides a central statue of Chenrezig, a manifestation with eleven heads, representing compassion and enlightenment. For generations, Bhutanese parents have journeyed here to seek blessings for their newborns from the protector deity Tamdrin. Children are blessed with a phurba, a ritual dagger, and adorned with a sacred thread as part of this cherished tradition. Later today you'll also visit Drubthob Monastery and Zilukha Nunnery. Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichhoedzong, where there's the opportunity to interact with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism. 

  
  

  After lunch, for an insight into traditional crafts of Bhutan, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, established in 1971, it is the premier institute to preserve and promote thirteen traditional art and crafts of Bhutan. Commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School, the Institute offers 4-to-6-year courses in 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. From here we continue on to visit The Folk Heritage Museum, dedicated to connecting people to the Bhutanese rural past through exhibitions, demonstrations, educational programmes and documentation of rural life. Your tour today ends with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, the ‘fortress of the glorious religion’. This is the center of government and religion in Bhutan, the site of the monarch’s throne room and seat of the Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in the 1960s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans.  The rest of your day and evening is at leisure to rest and relax. Overnight at Six Senses Thimphu.

• Day 03

  Thimphu to Punakha (1300m) (75km, approximately 2 hr drive)

  Following breakfast today, it's around a 2 hour scenic drive to reach Punakha. The first part of the drive is to reach the Dochu-la pass, situated at an elevation of 3,088 meters. Enjoy a short stop here to enjoy the views, soak up the magnificent scenery and appreciate the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags that adorn this beautiful high-altitude location. If the skies are clear, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of the following Himalayan peaks from left to right: Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongphugang (7,060m), which resembles a table mountain and presides over the remote region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the loftiest peak in Bhutan, soaring to an impressive 7,570 meters. At Dochula Pass, a collection of 108 chortens or stupas, known as Druk Wangyal Chortens, was commissioned by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the eldest Queen Mother. These chortens are structured in three tiers: the first and lowest level contains forty-five chortens, the second tier has thirty-six, and the top tier includes twenty-seven, encircling the central main chorten. From here, continue your journey onward to Punakha. Once the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, Punakha still serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. Nestled in a temperate climate and blessed with natural drainage from the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the lush and fertile Punakha valley yields abundant crops and fruits. After lunch, explore the Punakha Dzong, also known as the Palace of Great Happiness, constructed at the meeting point of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This grand dzong (fortress) served as both a religious and administrative centre in Bhutan's history. It spans approximately 600 by 240 feet and features a six-story gold-domed tower. Within its walls, you'll encounter courtyards and religious sculptures that offer glimpses into the depth of history and spiritual traditions embedded here. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into this intricate culture, which may seem exotic to visitors but has thrived in Bhutan for generations. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a brief excursion to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the temple of fertility. Perched on a hillock in the heart of the beautiful Punakha valley, this temple is renowned for the belief that couples struggling with infertility are blessed with children shortly after visiting and offering prayers here. The trail leads through rice fields to the quaint settlement of Pana, which means 'field.' Strolling through the village near the temple provides you with rare insights into the daily lives and lifestyles of the villagers. Rest and relax overnight at the beautiful Six Senses Punakha.

• Day 04

  Punakha (1300m)

  This morning after breakfast, a beautiful short hike of around 2 hours round trip, takes you to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten, which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu river and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond. From here, walk across Punakha Suspension Bridge, gracefully suspended over the gushing waters of the Mo Chhu River, a marvel of engineering and a thrilling experience for visitors. Spanning approximately 160 meters, it ranks among Bhutan's longest suspension bridges and provides a unique perspective of the picturesque Punakha Valley. With prayer flags fluttering in the wind and the river's roar below, crossing this bridge offers an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. After lunch, enjoy an excursion to Talo village, which is scattered along the hill slopes and known as one of Punakha's most picturesque villages. Talo Sangnacholing Dzong (fortress monastery) is built on a plateau and has majestic views of the surrounding villages and rural landscape. The beautiful farmhouses of the village have their own flower gardens and on the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. Spend time this afternoon exploring Nobgang and Talo villages, visiting farmhouses and meeting families, experiencing some of Bhutanese rural life. This afternoon you'll also visit Nalanda Buddhist Institute. Locals call this place ‘Dalayna’ and the monks call it Nalanda Buddhist College. The Nalanda Buddhist Institute is a monastic school near the village of Talo, above the Punatsangchu river. Time permitting there's also the opportunity today to visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery. Perched on a ridge amidst pine trees and overlooking the valleys of Punakha and Wangdue, gleams Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup temple. It houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara and of Guru Padsambhava, Gautam Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Tsela Namsum, the 21 Taras and Tsepamay (Buddha of longevity). The temple complex also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre for nuns where, apart from religious training, it provides life skill training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangkha painting. Rest and relax overnight at Six Senses Punakha.

• Day 05

  Punakha to Paro (2280m) (125km, approximately 4 hour drive).

  After breakfast, it's another scenic drive of around 4 hours to reach Paro. On arrival, you'll be able to check in to Six Senses Paro. The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends and is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the National Museum and the Kingdom's only international airport. Mount Chomolhari (7,314m) reigns in snow capped white glory at the northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunges through deep gorges to form the Pa Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan, producing most of the locally famous red rice from its terraced fields. 

  
  

  After lunch, enjoy a visit to Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, it now houses the National Museum. The extensive collection here includes antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. From Ta Dzong, it's a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels”, which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru and cosmic Mandala. The rest of your day and evening is free to rest and relax. Overnight at Six Senses Paro. 

• Day 06

  Paro (2280m) and hike to Taktsang Monastery (2950m).

  Following breakfast today, embark on the short and captivating hike to visit famous Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. It's around a 5 hour return hike. This monastery holds a position of utmost prominence among Bhutan's monastic institutions, clinging to the side of a cliff at an elevation of 900 meters above the Paro valley floor. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived at this sacred site on the back of a tigress and engaged in meditation, hence earning it the name 'Tiger's Nest.' Recognized as one of the most sanctified and spiritual places in Bhutan, it was visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now a pilgrimage site frequented by all Bhutanese people at least once in their lifetime.  After your visit and time at Tiger's Nest, it's a short drive into Paro town, with a stop enroute at the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism into Bhutan. This evening explore Paro local market and central area, perhaps doing some local shopping before your departure tomorrow. Rest and relax overnight at Six Senses Paro.

• Day 07

  Depart Paro

  After breakfast today, you'll be transferred to the International Airport in time for your flight home or on to your next destination.