Day 12 - Thimphu
Our first stop today is Chimi Lhakhang, a temple and monastery
dedicated to the fertility rites of the tantric tradition. Later,
we continue to Punakha Dzong, or the Palace of Great Happiness, on
our way to Thimphu, the capital city, for two nights. Here, we take
an exploratory walk of the city centre before making our way to the
mighty, 17th-century Tashichhoedzong - a striking fortress
monastery and the seat of Bhutan's government since the 1960s. We
also visit a local craft bazaar*, a line of bamboo huts that
stretch along the main street of Thimphu city. Here you can buy a
collection of local handicrafts and souvenirs which embody the
traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. We enjoy time to browse the
different wares on sale, which include prayer beads, brass Buddha
statues, wooden bowls, and an assortment of textile products and
paintings.
*November-February departures only.