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Bhutan is the perfect destination for people interested in Buddhist art and culture. Tucked in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan, between India and Tibet, followed a policy of isolation for centuries. Not much was known about the country till the first half of the twentieth century. It was only in the seventies that the country was opened to foreigners and people in the western world began to know about its existence.

The closed-door policy followed by the Bhutanese monarchs helped in preserving the country's rich culture and traditions. We are living in the twenty-first century but in some remote Bhutanese rural villages, people still have no idea what the internet, computers, or television are. Life carries on in the same quiet rhythm as it has for centuries.

Traveling into Bhutan is like taking a journey in a time capsule. The pristine nature, traditional wooden homes, huge Buddhist monasteries, people going about their business dressed in their traditional costume of Gho and Kira, and very few signs of modernity makes this country an absolute haven for those looking for a unique cultural experience. Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Phobjikha and Haa Valley are some of the must-visit destinations for Bhutan's cultural tour.

Every city in Bhutan has a Dzong (fortress or castle). The Bhutanese military used these huge citadels built in the traditional style to defend their territories from Tibetan troops in the bygone days, the structures now house museums, monasteries, and government offices. Punakha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, etc., are some of the most visited dzongs in Bhutan.

Bhutan is one of the few countries in the world where Buddhist thought and philosophy guide people's lives. Bhutanese are devout Buddhists and the Je Khenpo (chief abbot of the monastic body) holds an important position in the country. His advice is sought and respected by the Bhutanese King as well as ministers. Almost all the country's cultural sites are Buddhist religious structures – Tiger's Nest (Taktshang Monastery), Chimmi Lhakhang, Buddha Dordenma, Druk Wangyal Chorten, Gangtey Monastery, etc.

The nunneries and monasteries like Kila Gompa, Jambay Lhakhang, Ura Monastery, Dechen Phodrang Monastery, etc., offer a glimpse of the austere monastic life followed by the anis(nuns) and lamas(monks).

Village homestays offer great opportunities to interact with a family and learn more about their lifestyle. Living with a Bhutanese family on their farm is one of the few culturally immersive experiences you can enjoy while you are in Bhutan. You can also visit a local market and rub shoulders with the locals while buying some of the beautiful handmade items. Local men love to hang out in open spaces and compete in a game of archery or darts. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and Bhutanese are keen archers. Their games are boisterously peppered with a lot of loud singing, dancing, and laughing. A relaxing traditional hot stone bath should also be on your itinerary. This is one of the rare Bhutanese pleasures.

You can experience Bhutan's rich culture and traditions by choosing any one of our exciting city and culture tours – Bhutan Cultural tour - 5 days, Glimpse of Bhutan Tour  days, Western Bhutan Tour - 7 days, Bhutan Heritage Tour - 8 days, Bhutan West East Traverse Tour, Western and Central Bhutan Tour - 9 days, etc.

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Travellers Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.
Third Rock Adventures
Embarking on the shortest 3-day Bhutan tour with Third Rock Adventures turned out to be a journey beyond my wildest expectations. It all began with a glowing recommendation from a fellow traveler I met in the USA, and I can confidently affirm that the commendation was well-deserved. From the moment I expressed interest in this adventure, Naba, our tour organizer, displayed an unparalleled level of dedication. His involvement extended far beyon...
flags Gerry Williamson  
Mi experiencia en el "Tour más Corto de Bhután - 3 Días", organizado por THIRD ROCK ADVENTURES, fue simplemente mágica. Desde Barcelona, buscaba una escapada rápida y significativa, y este tour superó mis expectativas. Naba, nuestro organizador, merece elogios especiales. Desde la reserva del vuelo hasta la elección del hotel y arreglos para comidas adicionales, Naba se encargó de todo con una atención excepcional. Su ayuda fue más a...
flags Kevin Dengra  
I recently embarked on the "Shortest Bhutan Tour - 3 Days," and it was nothing short of magical! From the serene landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, Bhutan left an indelible mark on my travel memoirs. Naba, our tour organizer, deserves a special mention for curating such an unforgettable journey. Their meticulous planning ensured that every moment was filled with wonder and awe. Naba's local insights and attention to detail added a perso...
flags Joel Shaw  

Guinness World Record holder Gives Third Rock Adventures a Review!

werner berger

Werner Berger is the Guinness Book of World Records holder for being the oldest person in the World to have climbed the highest mountain on each of the seven (7) continents (incl. Mt. Everest).

I am Werner Berger and my "claim to fame" is probably best defined as being in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest person in the world to have climbed the highest mountain on each of the seven continents, including Mt. Everest.

Little did I know my life was to change forever on my first trek into the Himalaya in 1992 at age 55. It was the beginning and just a matter time before I realized I could combine my leadership and climbing skills to create a program in which people could explore their own possibilities.

So, in 2010, I began leading Transformational Life Experiences, treks to Mt. Everest Base Camp and other high places.

One of the earliest keys to success is to find a company with the right mix of professionalism, support, and, of course, experience. I have used Naba Amgai and his teams on all my Nepal trekking adventures.

Naba's caring and climber support, is second to none. In my estimation, Third Rock Adventures is one of the very best in the business, in or outside of Nepal. They know the mountains. So you can relax, enjoy and transform.

- Werner Berger

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Sera Road/ Tashi Xintsun, Lhasa, Tibet
Bhutan
Changlam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan