- THE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN
- INDIA AND BHUTAN CULTURAL TRIP
THE KINGDOM OF BHUTAN
An adventure in the Himalayas' last hidden kingdom -
Druk Yul, "Land of the Thunder Dragon."
This cultural tour takes you into the hidden kingdom of Bhutan, where
the charming and hospitable people have steadfastly clung to their traditions
and spiritual heritage. This stunning Himalayan country is a treasure-trove
of natural wonders such as mountain vistas and lush green valleys. The
winding roads, traditional white-washed homesteads and the rich cultural
heritage of monasteries make it a special destination for the adventurous
as well as cultural tourists. Life here is infused with ancient traditions,
which may seem unreal to a first time visitor.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: DELHI-PARO
Fly to Paro, Bhutan, on Druk Air, the national airline of Bhutan. If you
get a seat on the left side of the plane and it is not cloudy, you can
witness spectacular views of the high peaks of the eastern Himalaya, including
peaks in Bhutan such as Chomolhari, Jichu Drakye, and Tsering Kang. After
visa formalities at the Paro airport, we drive to our hotel. The rest
of the day is free to rest and relax. L,D Tenzinling Resort
DAY 2: PARO
After breakfast we will drive to the base of the foot hill where we will
begin our hike or pony ride to the viewpoint of Taktsang Monastery, 'tiger's
nest', perched on a cliff 2,740 feet above the Paro valley. The climb
will take about 2 hours going up to reach the viewpoint, and for those
wishing to climb up farther, it will be another hours walk. We will have
lunch here before returning to Paro.
Taktsang was destroyed by a fire in April 1998, but it is now completely
rebuilt. Those not wishing to hike will have the option of visiting the
National Museum, housed in an old watchtower above Paro Dzong (a dzong
is a fortress-monastery). The museum's collections include displays of
spectacular thangkas, bronze statues, Bhutan's beautiful stamps, and the
Tshogshing Lhakhang (Temple of the Tree of Wisdom), with its carvings
depicting the history of Buddhism. B,L,D Tenzinling Resort
DAY 3: THIMPHU
After breakfast, we will drive above Bondey to a trailhead where we can
walk about 50 minutes to Dzongdrakha, a small monastery overlooking the
Paro Valley built in the 16th century by the first local king, Chogay
Dragpa. This monastery is one of five in the area. There is also a large
stupa similar to that of Bodhnath in Kathmandu, Nepal. After lunch, we
drive to Thimphu. The rest of the day is free to rest and relax. B, L,
D Hotel KISA
DAY 4: THIMPHU
After breakfast we drive towards the north road and hike 2 hours up a
steep hill to visit Cheri Monastery which was built in 1620 by Shabdrung
Ngawang Namgyal. More than 80 monks are undergoing their three-year, three-month
retreat here. Inside is a silver chorten holding the ashes of the Shabdrung's
father. On our return we'll visit Tango Goemba, founded in the 12th century.
The present building was constructed in the 15th century. It is now a
Buddhist institute for higher learning. B, L, D Hotel Kisa
DAY 5: PUNAKHA
we drive across the Dochu La 'pass' where we might see the snow-covered
peaks of the eastern Himalaya if the weather permits. The pass is marked
by hundreds of colourful fluttering prayer flags and is an awesome sight
of one hundred and eight stupa. We continue to Punakha, winter seat of
the highest lama in Bhutan until the 1950s. We will visit the ancient
Punakha Dzong dating back to the 17th century, which is spectacularly
situated at the confluence of the Mo and Phu Rivers.
We will also have an optional short hike across the rice paddies to visit
nearby Chimi Lhakhang, built by Lama Drukpa Kunley. Legend has it he subdued
the demoness of the Dochu La with his 'Magic Thunderbolt of Wisdom.' A
wood effigy of the lama's thunderbolt is preserved in the lhakhang, and
childless women go to the temple to receive a wang (blessing) from the
saint.
B,L, D Hotel Zangthopelri or Punastangchu
DAY 6: BUMTHANG
We drive to central Bhutan via Pele La (11,152' )for views of snow-clad
peaks, including Chomolhari (24,000'), Bhutan's 'sacred mountain.' Descending
the pass, we'll visit the Chendebje chorten, then We cross another pass,
the Yotong La (11,234') and possibly do a little shopping with the weavers
of the Chummi Valley before arriving in Bumthang (9,000'). Padma Sambhava
(known as Guru Rinpoche, 'precious master') introduced Buddhism to Bhutan
here in 746, and the area continues to thrive as a spiritual center.
B, L ,D Wangdicholing or Jakar Village Lodge
DAY 7: BUMTHANG
This is the cultural heart of Bhutan and the most beautiful valley in
Bhutan. Many monasteries and pilgrimage sites are located here, making
it the cultural and historic center of Bhutan. One could spend weeks exploring
this fascinating valley. We can see a lot from 8th century. The Treasure-Finder,
Terton Pema Lingpa, found the sacred Ters of Buddhist texts after diving
into Membartsho Lake, which we can visit on an optional hike. We will
visit the Jakar Dzong, and the Jambey and Tamshing Lhakhangs, two of the
oldest temples, dating as far back as the 8th century, and Kurje Lhakhang.
B, L, D Wangdicholing or Jakar Village Lodge
DAY 8: TRONGSA
After breakfast we drive to Trongsa through a valley where we will see
numerous waterfalls. Trongsa is dominated by the large Trongsa Dzong,
built in 1644 by Chhogyel Minjur Tenpa, the official who was sent by the
Shabdrung to unify eastern Bhutan. The dzong is one of the most impressive
in the kingdom, and can be seen from a great distance in its lofty perch
above the Mangde Chu. B , L, D…Sherubling Tourist Lodge
DAY 9: WANGDUE PHODRANG
After breakfast to we drive to Wangdue Phodrang, the site of an impressive
monastery perched on a promontory on the other side of the river. Wangdue
Phodrang Dzong is noted for its silver-shingled roof and narrow courtyards
with long balconies. B, L, D Dragon's Nest Hotel
DAY 10: THIMPHU
Today we'll spend the morning exploring the beautiful monastery Wangdue
Phodrang. The sightseeing will take two hours, then we drive to Thimphu,
stopping on the way for lunch at the Cafe. After lunch, we continue to
Thimphu, set at 7,725 feet in the Wang Chu Valley and check into our familiar
hotel . B, L, D Kisa hotel
DAY 11: DELHI
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Delhi. Transfer to the Imperil
or The Hotel Imperial with the rest of the day free. Lunch and dinner
on your own.
DAY 12: FLY HOME
LAND COST on Request
Rates quoted are per person, based on sharing double accommodations.
Single Supplement—$300. If you're travelling alone and wish to share accommodations,
we'll try our best to find you a roommate. If that's not possible, we
will only charge you half of the single supplement.
What's included
Expert Guide
Accommodations in hotels with (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Arrival and Departure transfers
Sightseeing as noted in the itinerary
All surface transportation
Entrance fees and permits
What's Not included
Air tickets, meals not noted in the itinerary, insurance, medical and
evacuation, tipping to guides and local staff, visa fees, excess baggage
charges, airport taxes, cost of medical immunizations, items of a personal
nature, alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, laundry, etc.
INDIA AND BHUTAN CULTURAL TRIP
This trip combines Indian hill stations and the Himalayan
kingdom of Bhutan, where we will have a chance to meet different ethnic
groups who have steadfastly clung to their traditions and spiritual heritage.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: DELHI
On your arrival our representative will welcome you at the international
Airport and transfer to your Hotel Ashok Country Resort
DAY 2: DELHI - DARJEELING
After breakfast transfer to the Delhi Airport for our flight to Bagdogra.
We will be met by our representative and then drive four hours to Darjeeling,
one of two hill stations established by the British during the days of
the Raj. The city has managed to retain much of its old charm. B, L, D.
DAY 3: DARJEELING
Today we will explore Darjeeling with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering
Institute, the Everest Museum, the Zoological Park and the Tibetan Self
Help Center.
After lunch (optional) we will take the toy train ride on the Himalayan
Railway to Ghoom and return to town to see the SangNag Choeling. B, L,
D.
DAY 4: PELLING
After breakfast we head for Pelling, westren Sikkim. This is probably
the most enchanting and certainly one of the most sacred places in the
Eastern Himalaya. The jeep ride will take four hours to Pelling. The Hotel
commands a breathtaking view of Sikkim's protective mountain deity, Mt.
Khangchendzonga and its lesser peaks. After lunch we will walk to Sangachoeling
Monastery which is situated on a ridge above Pelling. B, L, D.
DAY 5: PELLING
Today will be spent exploring the sights around Pelling. We will proceed
to Yoksum where the first Chogyal or King was enthroned in 1641 AD by
the three great Lamas. The site is very holy to the Sikkimese and is under
the care of the Archeological Survey of India. From here we will drive
to Khecheopalri Lake, the most sacred lake in Sikkim. It is believed that
the lake possess powers of Wish-Fulfillment. The afternoon will be free
to enjoy the awesome views from the hotel or take a nature walk. B, L,
D.
DAY 6: GANGTOK
After breakfast we drive to Gangtok, the old capitol of Sikkim Along the
way we will drive through many cardamom, ginger and rice paddy fields.
The local people call Sikkim Denzong, land of rice. If time permits on
the way we will stop at Rumtek Monastery, the largest in Sikkim. B, L,
D.
DAY 7 :GANGTOK
After breakfast we will head for the Research Institute of Tibetology
and the Dodrul Chorten. After lunch we continue our sightseeing with a
visit to the Sikkim Government Handicraft Center and Enchay Monastery.
B, L, D.
DAY 8 : KALIMPONG
Today we will drive to Kalimpong through some very beautiful valleys,
along rivers and up into the hill station. Before the Chinese takeover
of Tibet, Kalimpong was the center of India's wool trade with that country.
After checking into our hotel we will walk into town to explore its shops
and market as well as one of the many famous flower nurseries of Kalimpong.
B, L, D.
DAY 9 : KALIMPONG
After breakfast we will continue our local sightseeing with visits to
Dr. Graham's Homes and school for the children of the area, the Zangdolpalry
Monastery, Durpin Dara and Thongsa Monastery. Rest of the day at your
leisure. B, L, D.
DAY 10: PHUNTSHOLING
Today we head from Kalimpong to Phuntsholing, our first night in Bhutan.
You will immediately notice how clean, quiet and less populated it is
in Bhutan. We will be met by our Bhutanese travel agency people and transfer
to our hotel. If time allows, we will visit the Zangtopelri temple in
the center of the town and Kharbandi Gonpa. B, L, D.
DAY 11 : PARO
Today the drive to Paro, 160 km, will take 4 hours. On the way you will
notice the unique architecture of the Bhutanese farmhouses and the pristine
environment and beautiful forests, valleys, waterfalls and high mountains.
Our drive will take most of the day as the roads in Bhutan are very windy
and make for slow driving. We will have lunch along the way and arrive
into Paro in the evening. B, L, D.
DAY 12 : PARO
After breakfast we will visit the National Museum, then we will continue
out to the Paro valley and visit Drukgyel Dzong from which we can view
Jomolhari mountain. If the weather is clear. we will be able to view the
Taktsang monastery nestled high on the black cliff face across the river.
B, L, D.
DAY 13-14 : THIMPHU
Today we will drive to the base of the hill where we will begin our trek
or optional pony ride to the viewpoint of Taktsang Monastery. The climb
will take about 2 hours going up to reach the viewpoint, and for those
wishing to climb up farther it will be another hours walk. Then we will
drive to Thimphu after lunch. We will visit the Memorial Chorten which
was erected by the Royal Grandmother, Phuntsho Choegron, in 1974 in memory
of her son the third King Jigme Dorje Wangchuck, who died in 1972. We
will visit the Textile Museum, the Traditional Painting School, the Zilunkha
Nunnery, the Handmade Paper factory and the Thimphu Dzong. B, L, D.
DAY 15 : PUNAKHA
This morning we will drive to Punakha, a trip of about three hours in
length. We will leave the cooler temperatures of the Thimphu valley and
arrive in the more tropical Punakha valley. Along the way we enjoy breathtaking
views of Bhutan's Himalaya mountains from Dochu La pass and the Dochu
La Café, where we can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. We will reach Punakha
in time for lunch at our hotel before visiting the Punakha Dzong and surrounding
areas. B, L, D.
DAY 16 : TRONGSA
Today we will be spent on the road between Punakha and Trongsa. Our first
stop will be in Wangdi to visit the Dzong, and then we will head on to
Trongsa. Along the way we will cross Pele La Pass, which divides western
Bhutan from central and eastern Bhutan. Along the way we will detour into
Phobjika valley, situated in the Black Mountains, and home to the Gantey
Gompa monastery and the migrating black-necked cranes. We will also stop
at Chendebje Chorten, built in the 19th century by a Tibetan lama to cover
the remains of an evil spirit that was killed at this spot. B, L, D.
DAY 17 : JAKAR
After breakfast we will visit the Trongsa Dzong and then continue east
for about 2 -3 hours to Jakar, the capital of Bumthang, and visit Jambay
Lhakhang. Bumthang is the cultural heart of and the most beautiful valley
in Bhutan. Lots of monasteries and pilgrimage sites are located here,
making it the cultural and historic center of Bhutan. B, L, D.
DAY 18 : PUNAKHA
Today after an early breakfast we will depart Jakar and head for Punakha.
It will be a long but interesting day. Check in to our familiar hotel
B, L, D.
DAY 19 : THIMPHU
After breakfast we will return to Thimphu, capital town. The afternoon
is free to relax or for shopping. Today is the last day in Thimphu. B,
L, D.
DAY 20 : DELHI
This morning we will drive to Paro, airport for our departure on Druk
Royal Bhutan Airlines to Delhi. After clearing customs we will transfer
to Hotel for the night. B.
LAND COST:
Rates quoted are per person, based on sharing double accommodations.
Single Supplement—$400. If you're traveling alone and wish to share accommodations
we will only charge you half of the single supplement.
What's Included
Expert Guide
Accommodations in hotels with (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Arrival and Departure transfers
Sightseeing as noted in the itinerary
All ground transportation
Entrance fees and permits
What's not included
Air tickets, meals not noted in the itinerary, insurance, medical and
evacuation, tipping to guides and local staff, visa fees, excess baggage
charges, airport taxes, cost of medical immunizations, items of a personal
nature, alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, laundry, etc.
General Travel Information
Entry and Visa
Entering Bhutan is by air on Druk Air, Bhutan's national carrier and the
only airline operating in Bhutan. Druk Air's fleet consists of two British
Aerospace jets, which are specially designed for Bhutan. Druk Air flies
into Paro Bhutan from Bangkok in Thailand, New Delhi and Calcutta in India,
Kathmandu in Nepal, and Dhaka in Bangladesh. On clear days the flight
into Paro offers spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountain Range, including
Mt. Everest (Chomo Lungma), Mt. Kanchenjunga (Kangchen dzonga), Chomo
Lhari, and Kula Kangri.
From the moment you enter Bhutan, you are an honoured guest and you will
enjoy the traditional hospitality and friendship of the Bhutanese.
We can book your tickets with Druk Air well in advance, avoiding the last-minute
rush during the peak tourist seasons of Spring and Autumn.
Druk-Air Tickets and Visas
Druk Air tickets will be issued and sent to you. For the procedure, it
is essential that you send us all information detailed below immediately
so that the visa application can be made. The tickets cannot be issued
until the visa is approved and this process takes at least 10 days.
Visas
Visas are not issued by Bhutanese embassies abroad. Visas are issued only
when you arrive in the country, either at Paro airport or Phuntsogling
. You must apply in advance. You can either fill in the visa application
form using fill it and e-mail us the following information. We will take
care of the rest:
*Your full name as it appears in your passport
*Permanent address, telephone no. and e-mail
*Occupation
*Nationality
*Passport number
*Date of issue and expiration of passport
* Date and place of birth
Please check information carefully; if there are discrepancies in any
important numbers when you arrive in Bhutan, there are delays and complications
in issuing the visa.
The actual visa endorsement is stamped in your passport when you arrive
at Paro. When the visa is issued, you need to pay US$20 and present a
passport photo with your passport number written on the back. You will
then receive a visa for the period you have arranged to be in Bhutan.
We will process visa extensions for you if they become necessary.
Accommodation
In the bigger towns such as Thimphu, and Paro, comfortable hotels , while
in smaller towns, modest but still comfortable hotels. we will ensure
that the best available accommodations are arranged for you in advance
,
Payment
Government regulations require that the tour payment be deposited before
the visa can be processed. We will send you Instruction
Food and Drink
Traditional Bhutanese food is ' emadasi', hot and spicy. For our visitors,
however, Chinese, Indian, and Continental foods are also served in the
hotels and in restaurants.
Tariff
The normal rate for travel in Bhutan is US$200 per day. The following
surcharges are applied for small groups:
Two people travelling together - US$30 per night per person
One person travelling alone - US$40 per night per person
Note: the tariff is valid up to Dec-2009
The daily rate may sound high at first, but remember that this includes
your accommodation, all food, guide, and transportation within Bhutan.
Clothing
· Cotton shirts & Cotton trousers
· Cotton skirt for women or trousers
· Fleece jacket or sweater - even in summer
· T shirts (not sleeveless)
· Sneakers or walking shoes and socks
· Small rucksack to carry your camera, water bottle and other essentials
· Rain jacket - Gore-Tex
· Sunglasses and reading glasses
· Swiss army knife
· Alarm clock
· Formal clothes
· Sun hat and sun cream
· Lip protection
· Ear plugs
· Flashlight
Email: namgial@yamatreks.com and/or namgial@gmail.com
