Bhutan, 8 days tour (On Request)
8 Days Starting and ending in Paro, Bhutan
Visiting: Bhutan, Thimphu, Wangdue Phodrang, Punakha
Tour operator:
Tour code:
99849
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 20
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
Activities:
Tour Overview
Join us on this memorable eight-day trip that will stay with you for a lifetime!. Explore Bhutan's ancient monasteries and shrines of historical and archaeological interests in the heartland of three major towns of the Dragon Kingdom; Thimphu, Punakha and Paro. Hike across the spectacular mountain scenery of Tiger's Nest , a backdrop to pristine forests and picturesque valleys and discover Ganteng Monastery in Gangtey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Paro - Thimphu ( 55 Kms – 1.5 Hrs)
Location: Bhutan
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Phuntsho Pelri or similar 3*
Meals Included: Dinner
After landing at Paro International Airport, a tour representative will meet and greet you before guiding you to your transfer to the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. En route stop at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers. Shortly before reaching Chuzom, you will see on your left the Tschogang Lhakhang, “the temple of the excellent horse”. On arrival at Thimphu, check-into the hotel. The remainder of the day is free at leisure for you to enjoy on your own an exploratory walk around Thimphu’s Main Street and market area. Also, visit the Local Crafts Bazaar and browse through some of Bhutan's fine traditional arts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, Thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings, jewelry and many interesting items made from local materials.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 2 : Thimphu
Location: Thimphu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Phuntsho Pelri or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, head out on a sightseeing tour in the Thimphu valley, including a visit to The National Library, housing an extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School) where students undergo a 6-year training course in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Later, visit the Textile Museum, which provides an insight into one of the most distinct art forms in Bhutan. Also visit Simply Bhutan, a living museum and studio encapsulating the cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people. After lunch, take a short drive (15 km) to Pangri Zampa, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan and a monastic school where Buddhist monks learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy. Afterward, visit the Buddha Point (Kensal Phodrang), which offers panoramic views of the Thimphu. Then visit the Memorial Chorten, erected for world peace and prosperity and you will always see people from all walks of life circumambulation and chanting mantras or spinning prayer wheels. Later, visit the Trashichhoedzong, one of the most important dzongs in the country, before your return back to the hotel. In the evening spent time on your own strolling through Thimphu city center, visiting shops and local market.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 3 : Thimphu – Gangtey (150 Kms - 5 Hrs)
Location: Wangdue Phodrang
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Dewachen or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Punakha across the beautiful Dochula pass (3O8Om). In Bhutan, the passes are marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten (stupa) and prayer flags. Dochula pass offers the most spectacular view of the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day. The Druk Wangyel Stupas (hundred stupas) are a sight to behold against this backdrop. The highway follows the scenic Dang Chhu before climbing through forests of bamboo and oak into Gangtey/Phobjikha valley. On arrival at Gangtey, Check-into the hotel. In the evening, take a stroll around the fascinating Gangtey Village.
Overnight in Gangtey.
Day 4 : Gangtey
Location: Wangdue Phodrang
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Dewachen or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, proceed to visit Gangtey Goempa, perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor. The Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountains and also the biggest one in Bhutan. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens (lay monks) who take care of the Monastery. Later, explore the wide Phobjikha valley. A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lies the village of Phobjikha. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of the black necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north, to pass the winter months in a milder climate. Phobjikha, lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. Also visit the Black Necked Crane Visitor Centre: Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the Centre has an observation room equipped with a high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The centre also displays information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area. End the day
Overnight in Gangtey.
Day 5 : Gangtey – Punakha ( 70 Kms - 3 Hrs)
Location: Punakha
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Meri Puensum Resort or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up to breakfast at the hotel and then drive to Punakha, on arrival check-into the hotel. Later visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. Next, take a short walk to Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the center of the valley is also known as the temple of fertility andwidely believed that childless couples who pray at this temple are usually blessed with a child very soon. The walk starts through paddy fields and villages, and takes about 1,5 hours walk to and fro). A walk through the village near the temple is a rare glimpse of the daily lives of the people in the community.
Overnight in Punakha.
Day 6 : Punakha –Paro (125 Kms – 4 Hrs)
Location: Bhutan
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Paro Eco Lodge or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast in the hotel, hop on your transfer to Paro and enroute stop to visit Simtokha Dzong. The sacred shrines inside will offer you solace and peace of mind. Later in the day after checking into the hotel, visit the Ta Dzong, originally built as a Watchtower, which now houses the National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Then visit Rinpung Dzong, (fortress of the heap of jewels), which has a fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as the Four Friends, the Old Man of Long Life, and the Wheel of Life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount Sumeru and other cosmic Mandala.
Overnight in Paro.
Day 7 : Paro – Tiger’S Nest Hike (14.5 - 5 Hrs Hike)
Location: Bhutan
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Paro Eco Lodge or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast in the hotel, head out on an excursion to Taktsang Monastery (approx. 5 hrs walk): It is one of the most famous monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress and meditated here and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site is recognized as one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. On the way back to town, you can enjoy an optional activity and stop at the base of Drukgyel Dzong, a fortress that was in ruins for a long time which is now being rebuilt as an important national heritage. It is the fort from where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, "Mountain of the Goddess'' can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong. Evening, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro.
Day 8 : Departure Paro
Location: Bhutan
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up to one last breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to Paro Airport, where you’ll catch your onward flight to your following destination.
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with an accompanied English-speaking guide.
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Accommodation
7 nights' accommodation in standard hotel categories.
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Meals
7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners.
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Transport
Inbound/Outbound transfers from/to Paro International Airport and non-air-conditioned transportation.
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Entrance Fees and Activities
All entrance fees to monuments as indicated in the itinerary, including sightseeing in Thimphu valley, visits to The National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, Textile Museum, Simply Bhutan museum, Pangri Zampa, the Buddha Point, the Memorial Chorten, the Trashichhoedzong, Dochula pass, Gangtey Goempa, Phobjikha valley, Black Necked Crane Visitor Centre, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Simtokha Dzong, Ta Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Taktsang Monastery, and Kyichu Lhakhang.
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Other
Meet & Greet, government royalty and taxes, and Bhutan Visa fee.
What's Not Included
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Airfares and Airport Taxes
Any airfares or airport taxes, supplements for which are quoted separately if applicable.
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International or Domestic Flights
International or domestic flights are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone/fax calls, alcoholic
on-alcoholic beverages, video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, any insurance, etc. -
Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the programme.
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Optional Tours and Activities
Optional tours and activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance, any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
During the Cold Season (September – March) it is advisable to pack : Thermal underwear, Dawn Jacket,Warm Trousers and sweaters, Woollen Shirts full slip, Hat (ear cover), Gloves & woollen shocks. During the Warm season (April – August) it is advisable to pack: Comfortable trouser,T-shirt, Windproof jacket , Fleece jacket & Scarf
Please Note
- Day 1: Meeting at 10:00 hrs in the morning at the airport
- Day 8: Drop off at Paro international Airport by 11:00 hrs. Please book travel arrangements accordingly or extra night.
- Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice
- The standard hotel check-in / check-out time is 14:00 / 12:00. In some cases, it may vary
- The distances and travel times described in the itinerary may vary.
- Please note we are able to accept clients' requests for Vegan meals.
- Closing days of Some of the Monuments mentioned in the Itinerary (Sightseeing/visits will be adjusted on every departure based on the closing days):
- Ta Dzong – Paro (national museum): closed on Government Holidays
- National Library – Thimphu: closed on Sat, Sun & Government Holidays
- Textile Museum – Thimphu: Closed on Government Holidays & on Sunday. On Sat open from 9.00 a.m to 4 p.m
- Institute of Zorig Chusum (Painting School) - Thimphu: Closed on Sun & Government Holidays. On Sat open from 10 a.m to 12 o’clock. It also closed in winter (Dec-early March).
- Simply Bhutan – Thimphu: Closed on Sun & on Government Holidays
- Folk Heritage Museum – Thimphu: Closed on Sunday & on government holidays
- Choki Traditional Art School – Thimphu: Closed on Government Holidays & on Sunday. On Sat open from 9.00 a.m to 12.30 p.m
- Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, Punakha: Closed due to maintenance
- Tashi Chhodzong- 5.30 pm-6.30 pm (summer) and 4.30 pm-5.30 pm (winter). 9 am-4 pm (Govt. holidays and Saturdays & Sundays)
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Thimpu:
- Standard Hotel Category = Phuntsho Pelri or similar 3*
Day 3-4 Gangtey:
- Standard Hotel Category = Dewachen or similar 3*
Day 5 Punakha:
- Standard Hotel Category = Meri Puensum Resort or similar 3*
Day 6-7 Paro:
- Standard Hotel Category = Paro Eco Lodge or similar 3*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-2 Thimpu:
- Standard Hotel Category = Phuntsho Pelri or similar 3*
Day 3-4 Gangtey:
- Standard Hotel Category = Dewachen or similar 3*
Day 5 Punakha:
- Standard Hotel Category = Meri Puensum Resort or similar 3*
Day 6-7 Paro:
- Standard Hotel Category = Paro Eco Lodge or similar 3*
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will accompany us during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the trip.
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights' accommodation in standard hotel categories. Specific hotels include Phuntsho Pelri or similar in Thimphu, Dewachen or similar in Gangtey, Meri Puensum Resort or similar in Punakha, and Paro Eco Lodge or similar in Paro.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes inbound and outbound transfers from/to Paro International Airport and non-air-conditioned transportation for the duration of the trip.
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Are entrance fees to monuments included in the tour?
Yes, all entrance fees to monuments as indicated in the itinerary are included. This includes visits to various sites in Thimphu, Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro.
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Is the Bhutan Visa fee included in the tour package?
Yes, the Bhutan Visa fee is included in the tour package.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as sightseeing in Thimphu valley, visiting the National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, the Textile Museum, Simply Bhutan museum, Pangri Zampa, the Buddha Point, the Memorial Chorten, the Trashichhoedzong, crossing the Dochula pass, visiting Gangtey Goempa, exploring the Phobjikha valley, visiting the Black Necked Crane Visitor Centre, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Simtokha Dzong, Ta Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, and visiting Kyichu Lhakhang.
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What should I pack for the tour?
Comfortable and light clothing is recommended. For temple visits, avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent are useful. For the cold season (September – March), pack thermal underwear, a down jacket, warm trousers and sweaters, woollen shirts, a hat, gloves, and woollen socks. For the warm season (April – August), pack comfortable trousers, T-shirts, a windproof jacket, a fleece jacket, and a scarf.
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What time should I arrive at Paro International Airport on the first day?
You should arrive at Paro International Airport by 10:00 hrs on the first day.
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What time will I be dropped off at Paro International Airport on the last day?
You will be dropped off at Paro International Airport by 11:00 hrs on the last day.
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Are there any specific clothing requirements for visiting temples and religious sites?
Yes, visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Low Deposit
Le Passage to India requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of le passage to india charges.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.