10-Day Educational Tour: Comprehensive Cultural Learning

Overview

• Day 1: Arrival in Paro - Thimphu Exploration
• Day 2: Educational Excursions in Thimphu
• Day 3: Punakha – Lessons on Traditional Architecture
• Day 4: Bumthang – Heart of Bhutan
• Day 5: Cultural Immersion in Bumthang
• Day 6: Gangtey Valley – The Black-necked Crane Experience
• Day 7: Back to Paro – Introduction to Buddhism
• Day 8: Explore Paro
• Day 9: Taktsang Hike
• Day 10: Return and Farewell

Day 1 | Arrival in Paro - Thimphu Exploration

Objective: Introduce students to Bhutan’s culture and natural beauty.

• Morning:
  • Arrival at Paro International Airport.
  • Transfer to Thimphu (50 km / 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon:
  • Visit the National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma statue.
• Evening:
  • Session on Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy.

Day 2 | Educational Excursions in Thimphu

Objective: Explore Bhutan’s traditional crafts and cultural heritage.

• Morning:
  • Visit the Royal Textile Academy to learn about traditional weaving techniques.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore the Folk Heritage Museum and interact with local artisans.
• Evening:
  • Cultural show with a Q&A session on Bhutanese traditions.

Day 3 | Punakha – Lessons on Traditional Architecture

Objective: Learn about Bhutanese architecture and its historical significance.

• Morning:
  • Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass.
  • Stop at Dochula to admire the 108 chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece located at the confluence of two rivers.
• Evening:
  • Walk across the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge.

Day 4 | Bumthang – Heart of Bhutan

Objective: Discover the cultural and historical significance of Bumthang.

• Morning:
  • Travel to Bumthang.
  • Visit Jakar Dzong, a significant cultural landmark.
• Afternoon:
  • Explore local monasteries and learn about Bhutanese myths and folklore.

Day 5 | Cultural Immersion in Bumthang

Objective: Participate in hands-on activities to deepen cultural understanding.

• Morning:
  • Engage in traditional crafts like wood carving or painting.
• Afternoon:
  • Experience a Bhutanese cooking session and learn about local cuisine.
• Evening:
  • Storytelling session with local elders about Bhutanese traditions.

Day 6 | Gangtey Valley – The Black-necked Crane Experience

Objective: Understand Bhutan’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

• Morning:
  • Drive to Gangtey Valley, a serene and environmentally rich area.
  • Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre.
• Afternoon:
  • Participate in a guided nature walk through the Phobjikha Valley.

Day 7 | Back to Paro – Introduction to Buddhism

Objective: Learn about Buddhism’s role in Bhutanese society and education.

• Morning:
  • Drive back to Paro and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
• Evening:
  • Discussion on how Buddhism influences Bhutan’s educational and social systems.

Day 8 | Explore Paro

Objective: Enjoy the cultural and historical landmarks of Paro.

• Morning:
  • Visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong (National Museum of Bhutan).
• Afternoon:
  • Explore local markets and handicrafts.

Day 9 | Taktsang Hike

Objective: Experience the spiritual essence of Bhutan.

• Morning:
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), a spiritual landmark perched on a cliff.
• Afternoon:
  • Free time for individual reflection and rest.

Day 10 | Return and Farewell

Objective: Reflect on the journey and bid farewell.

• Morning:
  • Farewell session and reflections.
  • Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.