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Essential Bhutan

Voyage to the Enigmatic Mountain Kingdom

7
Nights
Duration
$
0
Starts From
Family Adventures
Family Adventures
Luxury & Romance
Luxury & Romance
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Now is the time to explore this magical place, the Kingdom in the Clouds. Famously the place where Gross National Happiness is measured, Bhutan offers an injection of spirituality, magic, and mystery delivered with unreserved warmth and kindness. This essential trip showcases the must-see sites in Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. This is a place little changed over the last 500 years with spectacular fortresses and monasteries, a rich agricultural countryside, and techniques of craftsmanship meticulously preserved. And all of this against a background of unspoilt and breathtaking natural beauty. Combine this with India or Nepal for a fuller experience.
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
01-02
Thimphu
Experience Bhutan’s unique culture
03-04
Punakha
Explore impressive monastery-fortresses
05-06
Paro
Hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery
08
Departure
Depart

Detailed Itinerary

DAY
01-02
Bhutan’s Cultural Heart
Thimphu
,
Bhutan
You are welcomed at the airport on arrival, then set off immediately with your driver and host on the hour-long journey to Thimphu, the country’s capital. Offer a prayer at Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Point), then delve into the city in detail. Admire ancient manuscripts in the National Library and vibrant textiles at the Royal Academy. Visit the magnificent medieval fortress-monastery of Tashichho Dzong; the vast building was constructed entirely by hand and without a single nail. Meditate with the monks at Dechen Phodrung Monastery.
Essential Bhutan - 1
DAY
03-04
Mountains, valleys and rivers
Punakha
,
Bhutan
Drive the super-scenic Dochu-La pass at 3088 metres stopping frequently to take in the views of the Himalayas with the fluttering prayer flags in the foreground and admire the many stupas lining the route. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, at the confluence of the Mo and Po (‘female’ and ‘male’) Rivers. This huge fortress is one of the most important (and most beautiful) in the country and holds some of the country’s most sacred relics. Walk through rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang temple, the fertility temple constructed by the ‘Divine Madman’, an eccentric yogi and saint who blessed the grounds. Hike to Khamsum Yuley Monastery to see the elaborate stupa built to ward off evil spirits.
Essential Bhutan - 2
DAY
05-06
Fortress of a Mountain of Jewels and the magical Tiger’s Nest
Paro
,
Bhutan
Head back Paro by road, stopping to enjoy the scenery along the way. Visit the Paro Ta Dzong, a mid-17th century circular fortress that protected the area from Tibetan and Indian invasions and the Rinpung Dzong, Fortress of a Mountain of Jewels, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture, now the seat of the administration and an institute for monks. Explore the main street with its colourful wooden shopfronts and plunge into the weekend market. Take the two- to three-hour walk to the magical Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest, the most spectacular monastery in Bhutan.
Essential Bhutan - 3
DAY
08
International departure
Departure
,
Bhutan
Drive to the airport to connect your flight back home
Essential Bhutan - 4

What's Included:

·      All airport and hotel transfers

·      Accommodation based on double occupancy for 7 nights

·      Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily

·      Services of your driver/host

·      Transportation by comfortable air-conditioned private vehicle with unlimited mileage

·      Complimentary bottled water and snacks in the vehicle

·      All activities with your private guide as listed:

o   Thimphu:Half day tour

o   Thimphu:Full day tour

o   Punakha: Full day tour with walk/trek

o   Paro: Half day tour

o   Paro: Full day tour

·      Entrance fees to sites mentioned in the itinerary

·      24/7Support Service

·      Trip kit with travel documents and itinerary information

·      All taxes and fees

What’s not included:

·      International flights

·      Visa fees

·      Travel insurance

·      Items of a personal nature: laundry, drinks, telephone calls, etc

·      Gratuities

·      Meals and services not listed

·      Video/Photography fees at monuments

·      Additional arrangements required due to emergency or other situation

+ SHOW DETAILED ITINERARY

Accommodation

The Postcard Dewa Thimphu

The Postcard Dewa Thimphu

A luxurious 15 room hotel nestled in the forest on the outskirts of Thimphu. Wind down in the lap of nature and enjoy pristine views of the Khasadrapchu valley and Wang Chhu River. Take a perfectly curated picnic basket from the chef and enjoy a sublime experience by the Wang Chhu River.

Dhensa Boutique Resort Punakha

Dhensa Boutique Resort Punakha

Located deep in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley, this 24-suite resort is surrounded by thick pine forests, overlooking the Punakha river and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. A unique combination of contemporary design with traditional architecture focused on the beauty of simplicity. Great spa with an outdoor, woodfired bath.

Zhiwa Ling Heritage Paro

Zhiwa Ling Heritage Paro

Nestled in the hills outside Paro, the hotel is a gem from its traditional Bhutanese architecture to its elegant temple made with 450-year-old timbers to its Swedish under-floor heating. The hotel was constructed, carved, and painted by local Bhutanese artisans. The 45 rooms with all modern amenities have splendid mountain views.

On The Ground

Sandeep Singh

Sandeep Singh

Dynamic travel designer who continually develops unique ways to educate and entertain each and every tour group. Adept at delivering exceptional customer service and turning each tour opportunity into an unforgettable experience. Personally, Sandeep is a fashionable trendy gentleman who’s impossible to miss with his colorful turbans. Commencing his career within hotels, Sandeep understands the importance in providing exemplary, consistent service.

Stories

Tales and travelogues from our guests and our team travelling the world, forming new bonds and giving back to the society.