ABOUT
Explore the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan on this remarkable itinerary that unveils its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to Gross National Happiness. Begin your journey amidst the majestic Himalayan peaks, where lush forests and pristine rivers beckon adventurers. Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s unique culture, as you visit ancient monasteries adorned with vibrant prayer flags, witness traditional festivals, and savor the flavors of Bhutanese cuisine. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people as they share their traditions and beliefs. This itinerary promises a harmonious blend of awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural authenticity, and the pursuit of happiness, offering an unforgettable exploration of this incredibly special destination.
DURATION
7 Nights, 8 Days
BATCHES
- 28th Sep 2024
- 27th Oct 2024
- 03rd Nov 2024
PRICE
Reaching Bagdogra Airport on your own: 46,999/- per person
Mumbai to Mumbai by Air: 64,999/- per person
NOTE: Block your seat at just ₹20,000/- and pay the rest 25 days before the trip date.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Bagdogra to Jaigaon / Overnight at Jaigaon
Arrive at Bagdogra and drive to Jaigaon. Take a walk to nearby Zangtog Pelri Lhakhang and spend the day at leisure and rest.
Day 2: Phuentsholing to Thimphu / Overnight at Thimphu
Process the Entry Permit, the early morning and after breakfast, we will drive to Thimphu. The drive to Thimphu is very scenic, once we climb up from the Indian plain to Bhutan foothills through beautiful forests, towns and roadside villages. Our drive will pass through Gedu, Chukha, and Chuzom before emerging into the only multicultural city in Bhutan. Check into the hotel. Overnight in Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing / Overnight at Thimphu
After breakfast, first, we will process the Inner Line Permit and visit Memorial Chorten which was built by Her Majesty Ashi Phuntsho Choden in memory of her late son His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) the third king of Bhutan. Kuensel Phodrang where you can see the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan which is about 169 feet tall. If time permits, we’ll explore Folk and Textile Heritage Museums, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan’s living traditions.
In the afternoon we’ll drive to the town for lunch and post lunch we will visit Trashichho Dzong, the beautiful fortress that houses most of the Government’s office and King’s Throne room. Dinner and night halt at Thimphu.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha / Overnight at Punakha
Today we will drive towards Punakha and on the way, we will make a brief halt at Dochula Pass. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquillity of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass After reaching Punakha and having lunch we’ll enjoy the breathtaking view from Hanging Bridge and proceed to explore Puankha Dzong which is built on the confluence of Phochu (Male River) and Mochu (Female River) and considered as most beautiful dzong of Bhutan. Then and on the way, will visit Chimi Lhakhang which was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in the 15th century (This monk is popularly known as the Devine madman for his philosophy, “Salvation through sex”). He subdued the demons with his Magical Thunder Bolt. The Temple is also known as The Temple of Fertility.
Day 5: Punakha to Paro / Overnight at Paro
After breakfast, we’ll drive towards Paro and in the afternoon, after reaching Paro we will visit Rinpung Dzong which was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first National Museum spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan. The Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of the Paro district. Finally, we’ll end our day with Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to the 7th century. In the evening stroll in Paro town. Dinner and overnight at Paro.
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest / Overnight at Paro
After early breakfast will hike to Paro Taktsang which is one of the most popular monasteries visited by tourists. It was first built in 1692, around the Taktsang Senge Samdup, a cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for three months in the 8th century. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) flew to this location from Khenpajong, Tibet on the back of a tigress and subdued a demon. He then performed meditation in one of the caves here and emerged in eight incarnated forms (manifestations) and blessed the place. Subsequently, the place came to be known as the Tiger’s Nest. Guru Padmasambhava is known for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. Today, Paro Taktsang is the best-known of the thirteen caves in which he meditated.
Day 7: Paro to Jaigaon
After our breakfast, we will retrace our scenic drive back to Jaigaon. Relax in the hotel and get prepared for your departure the next day.
Day 8: Jaigaon to Bagdogra
Time to fly back home! The trip concludes with happy memories!
IMAGES
INCLUSION
- Accommodation in Twin / Triple rooms at all destinations as per the itinerary
- Breakfast (Day 2 – Day 8) and dinner (Day 1 – Day 7 ) as per the itinerary
- Comfortable Non-AC Hiace Bus / Winger vehicle, as per the itinerary
- Pickup and drop from Bagdogra on Day 1 and Day 8, as per the itinerary
- Sustainable Development Fee ( 1200 rs per person/day)
- Entry Fees at the sightseeing points as mentioned below
- Taktsang Monastery, Paro ( Tiger Nest Trek )
- Memorial Chorten, Thimphu
- Punakha Dzong, Punakha
EXCLUSION
- Train / Flight Ticket till Bagdogra & Return
- Lunch on all days, throughout the tour
- Any miscellaneous expenditure incurred during the tour
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
- 5% GST and processing fees
THINGS TO CARRY
- Valid Identity Proof (Passport/voter Card), along with 5 Photocopies for each document.
- If you do not have either of Passport or Voter ID Card, please carry an Aadhaar Card along with another supporting document such as a PAN Card / Driving License / Ration Card. In this case please inform the lead in advance.
- 5 Passport Size Color Photographs
Water Bottles - A lightweight Haversack or Backpack, and a smaller Day Sack
- Good pair of trekking shoes, and a pair of flip-flops
- Woollen Gloves, woollen socks, Monkey
- Cap/Balaclava, Neck Scarf
- Thermal Inners
- Jackets
- Waterproof gloves and windcheater/poncho
Personal clothing (Dressing Moderately is mandatory to visit Monasteries and Dzongs) - Cap, sunglasses, scarf Camera, Binoculars (Optional)
- Toiletries – Sunscreen, Moisturizer, Light towel, Lip balm, Wet wipes, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Hand Sanitizer
- Extra Polythene Bags (To segregate used/ unused garments and wet/ dry clothing)
- Any medicines that you consume normally, after consulting a doctor Mosquito repellent
Snacks and biscuits to munch on (As some journeys are 6-7 hours long) Enerzyl Powder or Glucon D powder