Bhutan 7-Day Tour Review: Tiger’s Nest & Inclusive Meals

Dreaming of Bhutan? That small, remote nation in the Himalayas has gotten more and more attention lately, and is that because of its views? Or the focus on happiness and well-being? I think a lot of folks are considering a visit there, but planning a trip to such a unique place might feel just a little tricky. I came across the “Bhutan 7-Day Tour with Tiger’s Nest & Meals Included”, and it seemed like a pretty straightforward way to experience the best of Bhutan without a lot of stress. So, let me share my experiences from this well planned week. It gives you a little insight on what you might want to expect.

First Impressions: Arrival and Thimphu

Landing in Paro was quite something, really! That airport is known as one of the trickiest in the planet to land at, yet it gives a striking entryway to Bhutan. The view was of massive mountains. Getting through immigration was a breeze. Meeting my guide, Tenzin, was super straightforward. He greeted me with a big grin and a customary white scarf, a ‘khadar,’ that is meant to symbolize pure intentions. That first hello was pretty smooth. So, we made our way to Thimphu, the nation’s capital. What I was thinking about the entire drive was how clean and untouched everything looked. The air felt fresh. I soon discovered the difference. Very few traffic lights in Bhutan. I did hear that is to assist in protecting that calmness.

My hotel in Thimphu, it felt really homey, in a great location with comfortable facilities. After settling a bit, Tenzin showed me around town. The Memorial Chorten was awesome. What a sacred space, with lots of local folks walking and praying. It gave me a sense of Bhutan’s deep devotion. We headed up to Buddha Dordenma, an enormous golden Buddha statue sitting atop a hill. It gives amazing views of the valley. Walking around Thimphu, it’s pretty clear that the Bhutanese are invested in saving their traditions. People wear conventional dress, ‘gho’ for men and ‘kira’ for women. A lot of architecture has detailed woodwork.

The inclusive meals turned out to be at various places that showed the scope of Bhutanese cuisine. My best meal that day was at a place that featured ’ema datshi’, the nationwide dish produced using chilies and cheese. Now that first bite was a bit intense, the flavor it developed? Very flavorful. Anyway, that night, exhausted yet awed, I started appreciating what was to come.

Punakha: Fortresses and Fertile Valleys

The ride to Punakha involved crossing the Dochula Pass. Believe me, this was more than a view point. Those were a group of 108 memorial chortens, known as ‘Druk Wangyal Chortens’. The location honored the Bhutanese warriors. We stopped for just a bit, and despite the cold, it had spectacular views of the Himalayas. After the pass, we made our way down into the Punakha Valley, which felt subtropical. What a distinction from Thimphu!

What really stood out was the Punakha Dzong, located where the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers join. This fortress isn’t just wonderful to look at; yet has a great history. It’s served as the capital of Bhutan. Plus, it really is where vital religious artifacts are housed. Walking across the wooden bridge to enter the dzong seemed like stepping back in history. The detailed artwork, large courtyards, and calm atmosphere showed the skill and spiritual depth of Bhutanese culture. I remember Tenzin was explaining some symbolization. It created more flavor for the experience.

Another adventure in Punakha was the hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” that is, Drukpa Kunley. He uses unconventional techniques to impart his teachings. This temple is regarded as a fertility shrine. I saw a lot of couples there praying for children. The walk was through rice paddies and small villages. I was communicating with local folks. That added some flavor to the cultural experience.

Meals included that day were no exception. I tasted a flavorful buffet of local specialties. Plus the lodging. It had amazing views of the valley. I was falling for the appeal of Bhutan’s landscape, background, and hospitality.

The Highlight: Trekking to Tiger’s Nest

The climb to Paro Taktsang, frequently called the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, stands out from other parts of the trip. Rising from a cliff, that temple is one of Bhutan’s famous landmarks. So that morning, after breakfast, Tenzin and I visited the bottom of the mountain. The climb had an almost mystical type thing to it. The path took us through pine forests. Prayer flags lined portions of the path. Those were fluttering in the wind, which created a really sacred atmosphere.

That climb could be difficult. Anyway, I consider the slow and steady approach works nicely. Stopping at the tea house halfway up gave a pleasant break to catch your breath and to admire the view. Making it towards the top, the view became even better, nearly. The monastery looked to be coming into view. As if holding onto the side of a cliff. Finally attaining it turned out to be impressive.

According to history, Guru Rinpoche flew to that place on the back of a tigress. He mediated in a cave for three months. Going through the monastery, I saw numerous temples, artifacts, and sacred paintings. This place appeared to be infused with history and spirituality. That time that I took sitting and wondering made the climb worthwhile.

The included meal after climbing down was one of the most effective. Savoring Bhutanese cuisine with a view of the Tiger’s Nest, you might enjoy just how lucky you could be.

Exploring Paro Valley

Paro wasn’t just about the Tiger’s Nest. This was a beautiful valley. Tenzin made sure I explored a few of the best local places. We stopped at Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress with amazing artwork. The architectural elegance displayed even more insights on Bhutanese artistry.

After the dzong, we explored the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, a historical fortress. In olden days, this place was intended to defend against invasions from Tibet. Despite currently being in damages, that historical significance had an influence. We spent a bit exploring local marketplaces. That had colorful textiles and crafts. I got some souvenirs. They served as reminders of my trip.

What’s really interesting is the National Museum of Bhutan, which is located in an old watchtower. I learned more on Bhutanese art, history, and culture. That collection gave background for what I had come across during my travels. The provided meals kept surprising. Anyway, I did get the taste of regional ingredients. Hotels remained comfortable. It permitted some well-needed remainder following busy days.

Cultural Experiences and Departure

My final day in Bhutan had some genuine social encounters. Tenzin got me to a local farm to witness traditional Bhutanese life. This had sampling regional butter tea and learning some olden techniques.

That visit was topped with a warm farewell supper. I reflected upon my time in Bhutan. Those amazing places. A lot of wealthy customs. Plus warm friendliness of individuals, really. Saying goodbye to Tenzin seemed hard. That trip got much better on account of his insights, really.

My leaving from Paro Airport brought mixed feelings, very. Happiness for having seen this incredible nation, so I had a bit of regret that I needed to depart. That 7-day tour proved that there is a method of getting to experience Bhutan’s amazing views, background, and spirituality.

Scenic Beauty: The views throughout Bhutan, especially the Himalayas and green valleys, were absolutely outstanding.
Cultural Immersion: Interacting with the local customs, festivals, and the Bhutanese folks gave insight on their methods and views.
Tiger’s Nest: The trek to and view from the Tiger’s Nest Monastery turned out to be the main element. Plus a worthwhile and spiritually enriching experience.
All-Inclusive Convenience: With meals, transport, and lodging covered, I could give attention to appreciating the trip instead of planning.

Would I recommend this “Bhutan 7-Day Tour”? Surely, if you’d prefer a very prepared, tension free approach of experiencing Bhutan, the comprehensive nature and wonderful places created a superb holiday. Do you realize?