Overview
The Uma Paro Himalayan Explorer Trip is an extraordinary journey that encapsulates the mesmerizing beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Himalayan region. Spanning over the course of several days, this expedition offers a blend of adventurous exploration and immersion into the local Bhutanese culture.
Nestled in the heart of the Paro Valley, Uma Paro serves as the base for this remarkable journey. The trip commences with a warm Bhutanese welcome and an introduction to the itinerary. As the exploration begins, participants are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan peaks, verdant valleys, and pristine landscapes.
The trip includes a series of guided treks that cater to varying levels of hiking expertise. Trekkers have the opportunity to traverse ancient trails, traverse dense forests, and cross quaint villages. Along the way, they will encounter vibrant prayer flags, sacred monasteries, and serene Buddhist stupas, offering a glimpse into the spiritual essence of the region.
A highlight of the journey is a visit to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the “Tiger’s Nest.” Perched dramatically on a cliffside, this sacred site holds immense cultural and religious significance. The trek to Taktsang Monastery is both challenging and rewarding, promising breathtaking panoramic views as a reward for the effort.
Amidst the adventure, the Uma Paro Himalayan Explorer Trip also focuses on cultural immersion. Travelers have the chance to interact with local villagers, partake in traditional Bhutanese meals, and experience age-old customs firsthand. This cultural exchange fosters a deep appreciation for Bhutan’s unique way of life and the harmony between tradition and modernity.
Evenings are spent back at the luxurious Uma Paro retreat, where participants can unwind and rejuvenate. The retreat offers wellness such as spa treatments and yoga sessions, complementing the physical exertion of the day’s activities.
Conclusion and Summary
In conclusion, the Uma Paro Himalayan Explorer Trip presents an all-encompassing expedition through the Himalayas, blending adventure with cultural discovery. With its breathtaking landscapes, challenging treks, spiritual encounters, and luxurious accommodations, this journey offers a profound connection with the Himalayan realm and the enchanting country of Bhutan. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a culture seeker, this trip promises an unforgettable experience that lingers in memory long after the journey concludes.
Day to Day Itinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PARO, BHUTAN
Elevation 2,280 m
Arrival, check-in, show round and first photo opp. Uma Paro staff will welcome you at the airport for the 10-minute transfer to the property. After lunch, in order to aid acclimatisation and to get your bearings, we invite you to a guided local walk. Stroll through bustling Paro Town and out to the massive Rinpung Dzong — ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’. The trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam). This bridge provided the backdrop for scenes in the feature films, Little Buddha and Travellers and Magicians. In the evening, please join us for a welcome dinner and photographic adventure briefing with slide show.
Hotels:
DAY 2: PARO
Elevation 2,280 m
Wind through pine forests high above Uma Paro to the pretty grounds of the fortress-like monastery of Zurig Dzong. Traverse across to Ta Dzong, housing Bhutan’s National Museum with magnificent views over Paro, and on down to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels). The trail then leads across Paro Chhu (river) via a traditional covered bridge (Nyamai Zam) and then past the main archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace and into Paro town.
Drive a few kilometres north of Paro, and we pay our respects at Kyichu Lhakhang; this is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with its magic orange tree that bears fruit all year round. Time permitting; we drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to control the northern route to Tibet (from here, it is only a two-day hike to the border with Tibet, dominated by Mt Jhomalhari).
Duration: 5-7 hours (depending on time spent in National Museum and Paro)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Hotels:
DAY 3: HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PARO VALLEY : TAKTSANG MONASTERY
Elevation 2,280 m
One of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan, Taktsang Goemba defies logic, gravity, and reason. Legend has it that this cliff side was where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. To avoid the hot sun an early start is advisable for the two-hour climb to the Tiger’s Nest viewpoint. Descend steeply, and then climb up to the monastery, passing a waterfall and entering through the main gates, which are filled with murals.
Retrace our steps or alternatively (if time and energy levels allow) head further up to several remote temples and monasteries. Return to Uma Paro in the afternoon for some time to rest and relax and enjoy the facilities such as the steam rooms, swimming pool or a Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath followed by a soothing massage. In the evening you are invited for a firelit farewell dinner either in the courtyard at Uma Paro or at our Bukhari restaurant.
Duration: 7-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Guided with support vehicle and picnic
Hotels:
DAY 4: DEPARTURE DAY
Elevation 2,280 m
Today we will bid fond farewell to this beautiful Himalayan country and take an early flight back home. We hope by now you would have made some friends and also kept many photos and beautiful memories of Bhutan! And we look forward to seeing you again in this beautiful land of endless Enchantments! Tashi Delek!