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Tiny Kingdom, Large Heart Located in the southern foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan is about 46,500square kilometres in area and has a population of less than eight lakh people. It may be tiny–even more so, considering its neighbours are the most populous and second-most populous nations on Earth–but it’s a country that’s bigger than the two when it comes to sheer happiness! A remarkable way of administering a country, here the enlightened Bhutan government prioritises the happiness and well-being of its people as a form of governance. Given that, they make tourists who visit their country a happy bunch too. Bhutan is a country which has its origins surrounded in mystery, an enigmatic Shangri-La perhaps. It’s a magical land blessed by nature, with an abundance of culture, religion and beauty every where you see. Take in the vibrant architecture of the monasteries, dzongs and the temples in the countryside. Walking the Himalayan wilderness or balance your way through lush greenfields. Get up close with God’s own creations And meditate, like the wise old man at the top of the mountain.

Bhutan  |   8 Days and 7 Nights

Highlights

• Explore age old monasteries built in as late as the 12th Century.
• Visit the Memorial Chorten with its Golden Spires and Bells. Popularly known as “the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan.
• Long drives to Dzongs through pristine natural surroundings
• Stops at local villages to meet the ever smiling happy locals.
• Visit Zilukha one of the few modern nunneries in Bhutan.
• Catch a glimpse of the unique national animal “Takin”.
• Experience Buddhist folklore first hand at the Temple of the Divine Madman a popular character in Tibetan folklore.
• Free time to explore Phobjikha valley the winter home of the black necked cranes.
• Last but not the least a must- do bucket list hike up to the Tiger’s Nest.

ITINERARY SCHEDULE

Day 1 :- Arrive at Paro Transfer to Thimphu

On arrival at Paro Airport you will be warmly received by Wanderers Bhutan representative. He will assist you in boarding your vehicle for transfer to Thimphu (7656Ft, 65 Kms / 01½ to 02 Hrs away). Perhaps Pharrell Williams made a trip to Bhutan before he wrote and performed his monster hit of a song, Happy. Because I’m happy… Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth Well, that truth seems to be clear to the Government of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Because their national philosophy is famously called Gross National Happiness! From the time you meet your driver to the time you bid him farewell we assure you will been gulfed with the warmth and smiles of the people of this happy kingdom. First stop Thimphu. A unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style. On arrival in Thimphu, check in to the hotel. Evening free at leisure. Dinner at the Hotel Pemako Thimphu.

Meals: Dinner.

Day 2 :- Thimphu

After breakfast, you will be taken to explore the Memorial Chorten. The Chorten was built to honor the 3rd King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, it is a prominent landmark in the city with its Golden Spires and Bells and it is literally the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan. Later we take you to visit the largest Statue in the country at Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point). Next stop is the Changangkha Lhakhang Monastery. Do bear in mind local sentiment for visiting a Dzong or a temple. You must be dressed appropriately. No half pants, sleeve less shirts, floaters are allowed. This is expected of you throughout the trip. The Lhakhang popular fortress-like temple perched on a ridge above central Thimphu regularly hums with pilgrim activity. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet. Do walk right to the back for excellent views of the Kora (Pilgrim path), with its lovely black and gold prayer wheels. We will also stop at the Motithang Takin Preservation centre to see the rare “Takin” the national Animal of Bhutan. Often referred as a goat with an attitude! Lunch is on own. Post the same you will visit the Drupthob Goemba also called the Zilukha Nunnery. Zilukha is among the few modern nunneries in Bhutan. Last stop for the day is the National library (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays) –It is a major scriptural repository and research facility dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich literary heritage of Bhutan. After this action packed day head back to the hotel.
Dinner is included at the Hotel Pemako Thimphu

Meals: Dinner.

Day 3 :- THIMPU – PUNAKHA

After breakfast we drive you to Punakha (3936Fts, 77 Kms / 03 to 3½ Hrs)  . The drive to Punakha  is over Dochu La pass (10102Ft). You will stop briefly here to take in the sweeping vistas and admire the prayer flags flapping in the distance. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this Pass (Left to Right): Mt. Masagang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Tsendagang (6,960Mts / 22829Fts), Mt. Terigang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), Mt. Jejegangphugang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Kangphugang (7,170Mts / 23518Fts), Mt. Zongphugang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts Finally Mt.Gangkar Puensum (7,497Mts / 24590Fts), the highest peak in Bhutan. Lunch on your own after which you go on to visit the Punakha Dzong (All visits to Punakha Dzong & Monastery are limited till Courtyard only. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) Rivers, the majestic Punakha Dzong looks like a modern-day Shangri-La enveloped in an air of mystery and bliss. Also known as “the palace of great happiness or bliss,” the Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Constructed in 1637–38, the Tibetan Buddhism palace was the administrative centre and seat of Bhutan’s government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. Today, it’s still used as an administrative building that continues to be a whimsical place rich in legend and myth. Last stop visit the Chimi Lhakhang The Divine Madman is such a popular character in Tibetan Buddhism folklore that a temple, Chimi Lhakhang (translated to mean “Temple of the Divine Madman”) was built in his honour. The temple is believed to bless couples who seek fertility and it is frequently visited by those without children. To receive blessings, a lama places two phalluses, one wooded and the other made of bone, on the couple’s foreheads along with an archery bow that belonged to the Divine Madman himself. He then says a prayer and offers the couple a stack of names for them to randomly draw from. Their selection dictates the baby’s gender and name. Dinner at the Resort. Overnight: Como Punakha.
Meals: Dinner

Day 4 :- Wangdi

: Today the day starts early as you have a full day excursion to Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley ( 9845fts , 85Kms / 3 to 3½ Hrs One way ) The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lie’s the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. Lunch on your own and free time to explore the valley. Next stop the Black Necked Crane Information Centre (Closed on Sunday & National Holidays)- Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the black-necked crane information Centre has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. Last stop for the day is the Gangtey monastery. Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery and the biggest in Bhutan. Return to your hotel. Dinner will be at the resort. Overnight: Kichu Resort Wangdue or similar
Meals: Dinner

Day 5 :- PUNAKHA TO PARO

Breakfast at the Hotel and then leave for Paro. Today you will explore the Ta Dzong National Museum. Lunch on own. Then proceed to Rinpung Dzong – the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. You will also visit the Kyichu Lhakhang It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to 7th century. Dinner at the Hotel
Overnight: Le Meridien Paro

Meals: Dinner.

Day 6 :- PARO – TIGER’S NEST MONASTORY

: Breakfast at the Hotel and then proceed to hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Containing 13 holy relics, it is considered one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world. It is also where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Take in the stunning views en route and the incredible vista from this monastery, which clings to the rock towering 2,953m above the valley. The hike which is all the way uphill takes about 2½ hrs to 3Hrs one way through pine forests. If you are unable to make it to the top even reaching to the cafeteria area which in almost half way is very fulfilling. Lunch on own and free time. Drive back to the resort for Dinner Overnight: Kichu Resort Paro or similar Meals: Dinner.

Day 7 :- EXCURSION TO HAA VIA CHELE – LA PASS

After an early breakfast at the hotel head out for your full day excursion to Haa via Chele-la pass (12465Ft, 65 Kms / 02 to 03Hrs – One way). After driving through blue pine & rhododendron Forest for 45 km, you will reach Chele-la pass (13081Ft). From this vantage point you will have a superb view of Mt. Jhomolhari & Mt. Jichu Drake. Drive on to Haa, descending all the way for another 22 km. The Haa Dzong is presently occupied by military, but the view from outside is stunning. Lunch on your own then visit the famous Monastery of Lhakhang Karpo White Temple followed by visit to Lhakhang Nagpo Black Temple. Drive back to Paro Resort for Dinner. Overnight: Kichu Resort Paro or similar Meals: Dinner.

Day 8 :- DEPARTURE FROM PARO

: After an early or packed breakfast check out of the resort and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
End of Trip.

Package cost

₹Cost on Request

Inclusions / Exclusions

What is included

• 7 Nights’ accommodation on twin sharing basis.
• Daily breakfast and dinner.
• Sightseeing program with a private car – Transfers and sightseeing vehicle will not be at disposal. It will follow the set itinerary only (on point to point basis).
• All entrance fees according to the set programme.
• Services of an escort and local guide will be as per the itinerary.

What is not included

• International flights into Paro and out of Paro.
• Visa fees/ Permit fees where applicable.
• Lunches.
• Insurance.
• Gratuities.
• Personal expenses.
• Vehicle at disposal.

 

Weather Info

Every season in Bhutan has its own charm. Autumn is a lovely season when the skies are blue, the air is fresh after the rains, the trees are shedding their leaves creating a kaleidoscope of colours. Winters are very cold and in most parts of Bhutan e.g. Paro, Thimphu, Dochula Pass, Bumthang etc., it snows. It is a fabulous season if you can bear the cold. The summers are as it should be – very pleasant. The skies are clear with occasional rains to clear the air.

Note

We reserve the right to amend the rates/itinerary.
The above rates are only valid for Indian passport holders. Kindly contact us on the number if you hold a foreign passport. We will be glad to assist you.
1.Meals – Local veg and non-veg options are available.
2.Health Requirements and Vaccinations- No vaccinations are prescribed for this tour.
3.Tipping- Tipping is not customary in Bhutan but a small amount is always welcome.
4.Currency – The currency is Ngultrum (g is silent). It is at par with the Indian rupee.
5.Time- GMT +6 Electricity – The voltage in Bhutan is 230 volts. You will need to use a suitable power converter for a Bhutanese power outlet

Terms and conditions

Payment terms:

A booking deposit of 50% of the tour cost per person will be required at the time of booking to block the services for you. The balance (50%) will be payable 90 days prior to the departure.

 

Cancellation Terms

180 – 90 days prior to the departure (INR 10,000 per person cost) Within 90 days prior to the departure: 100 % cancellation.

 

Important Note: The lodge reserves the right to cancel reservations for circumstances of force majeure. In this event, we will provide rescheduling options. If rescheduling is not possible, we will provide a full refund.

 

Payment options– • Please follow link on our website, The Wanderers | Payment options

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