Bhutan The Valley of Dragons
Group | Individual | Regular |
7 Days / 6 Nights
US$ 1815 Onwards
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Bhutan The Valley of Dragons
● Delhi ● Thimphu ● Dochula Pass ● Punakha ● Wangdue Dzong
● Semthoka Dzong ● Paro
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Itinerary
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Hotels
Destination Info
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Bhutan is the little secret of Asia. Overshadowed and nestled between Nepal and India, it is a relatively new travel spot, with many undiscovered secrets in its natural scenery and quiet townships. This tour would give you an exposure with time to explore the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. The tour will enable you to relish unrivalled views of the Himalayan peaks that define the borderlands of Bhutan and Tibet. There is also ample opportunity to delight in the pristine forests of conifer, oak and rhododendrons as well as encountering yak herders as they establish their summer encampments. The monasteries and forts that reflect the deep cultural heritage of this remarkable Buddhist kingdom.
Day 1: Arrival at Delhi > Paro - Thimphu (62 kms 02 ½ hours)
Arrival in New Delhi India and transfer to take a flight to Paro, Bhutan. Assistance at the airport and transfer by surface to Thimphu. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 2: Thimphu
Altitude 2350 m / 8500 ft.
Breakfast. Today we visit the important sites of starting with Thimphu Memorial Chorten built in memory of the late King, followed by the Craft Centre School of Fine Arts, where we shall see how the Thangka painting and other traditional arts are being revived by the government. We also visit the Hospital of Indigenous Medicine, where herbal medicine, acupuncture and ancient healing art that came to Bhutan from Tibet are still practiced today.
Following lunch we continue our visit of Thimphu. Starting with the Changgangkha Temple, Drubthrob convent, the textile museums and finally visit the Tashichhodzong - home of the Royal Government and Central Monastic Body. It was rebuilt in 1960 after a fire destroyed most of the earlier building. A curious thing about this building is that it was constructed without any drawing or using a single nail! You can also visit the Thimphu Zoo. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Thimphu - Dochula Pass - Punakha (70 kms, 03 hours)
Altitude: 1300 m / 5500 ft,
Breakfast. Departure to Punakha enroute visiting Dochula. Dochula is situated at a height of 3048 mt. where a large chorten and prayer flags welcome us. On a clear day, endless chain of Himalayan peaks, such as Gangar Punsum (7 315.2 mt), the highest unclimbed peak in the world, Ganchenta, the Tehri Dam, Table Mountain, including all a the summits which are over above 6096 mts. From there we descend to 5500 meters through a folourful temperate forests wull of flowers like rhododendrons and magnolias to a semitropical area of oranges, bananas and cactus.
After enjoying a cup of tea at Dochula Pass and admiring the serene setting, we continue to Punakha. Arrival and lunch at the hotel.
Afternoon visit Punakha Dzong, the winter residence of the Je Khenpo and the monks of Tashichho Dzong. This Dzong is situated at the confluence of two rivers flowing glaciers: Chu and Mo Chu Pa, descending from the heights of the Himalayas, and was the capital of the kingdom in ancient times. Walk till Chhimi Lhakhang situated on a small plateau adjacent to the river. It was built by the famous "divine madman" Drukpa Kuenley. Today it is a famous pilgrimage site for infertile women who want children. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 4: Punakha - Wangdue Dzong / Semthoka Dzong – Paro(142 kms, 04 hours)
Breakfast. Departure to Paro enroute visit Wangdue Dzong, followed by Semthoka Dzong.
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal was one of the most famous patrons of Dzongs construction in Bhutan. To consolidate his newly acquired dominion in western Bhutan and to defend against both internal and external enemies, he started building Dzongs and Semthoka Dzong is of great historical significance. The place where the Dzong situated is of strategic importance as it has common boundary with three of the major regions of the West: Sha (Wangdiphodrang), Wang (Thimphu) and Pa (Paro). We have lunch on way to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong which was once a strategic position to retain the invading forces in northern Tibet. We can also visit Kichu Lhakhang temple. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 5: Paro
(Altitudes: Paro 2250 m / 7000 ft)
Breakfast. Today we take a walking tour of Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) monastery. Taktsang Monastery is one of the most revered places of pilgrimage. It has 13 holy places. Taktsang, the "The Tiger’s Nest” is named after the story of its founding. In the eighth century, Guru Rinpoche came to Taktsang in a miraculous way, flying on the back of a tigress of Khenpajong in the Kurteop region. According to the tradition, the tigress was no other than one of the consorts of the master who had taken the form of the tigress. Guru Rinpoche meditated for three months in a cave at Taktsang and converted the Paro valley to Buddhism.
It takes about three hours at an average speed to reach the hilltop for people used to heights. En route stop at tea house for a refreshing drink and an excellent view of the monastery. The road can sometimes seem a little creepy, but it is well defined and there is no danger of falling. Lunch will be served at the Takstang cafeteria. Walk back is downhill and takes about one and a half - hour.
In the afternoon visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower and now houses the National Museum (closed on Sunday and Monday). The extensive collection includes old Thangka painting, textiles, weapons and armor, household items and a rich variety of natural and historic objects.
Day 6: Paro – Delhi
Saturday KB - 204 8:00 / 9:50 pm
Breakfast. Transfer to airport for flight to Delhi. Half day visit Akshardham temple. (closed Mondays) and panoramic tours of New Delhi. In time transfer to the airport to take your flight to the next destination.
Day 7: Delhi - Europe
DEPARTURE DATES
2017 April
2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (Diwali)
2017 October
3, 10, 17, 24 (Holi Week)
2017 May
6, 13, 20, 27 (Pushkar)
2017 November
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
2017 June
4, 11, 18, 25
2017 December
5, 12, 19, 26
2017 July
1, 8, 15, 22, 29
2018 January
3, 10, 17, 24, 31
5, 12, 19, 26
2018 February
7, 14, 21, 28
2017 August
5, 12, 19, 26 (Holi)
2018 March
4, 11, 18, 25*
2017 September
*Dates in bold indicate important festival period.
TOUR COST
Elegant
Nett per person cost
€ 429
Minimum 02 person
€ 143
Single Supplement
Airfare: Economy Class
Not Applicable
Additional Services Supplements
€ 138
€ 183
€ 176
Half board
€ 143
€ 204
€ 185
Full board
€ 770
€ 869
€ 787
01 pax traveling alone
Accompanying language speaking guide till Jaipur. (2 pax)
€ 132
Validity: From April 1, 2016 to September 30, 2016 |
* Indicative price subject to change at the time of issue.
TOUR COST INCLUDES
● Accommodation based on double/twin sharing room at the hotels mentioned or similar for 13 nights.
● Accommodation will be on bed and breakfast basis.
● Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle with driver for transfers, excursions and sightseeing.
● The entrance to places of tourist interest mentioned in the itinerary. (Single visit per site).
● Services of English or any other language speaking local guide throughout the trip.
● (Accommodation and meals in different hotels)
● Rickshaw ride in Jaipur.
● Use of non-polluting electric bus in Fatehpur Sikri.
● Welcome and assistance on arrival and departure by our airport representative.
● All road toll charges, parking fee, fuel cost, interstate taxes, and porter services at all hotels and stations.
● Currently applicable taxes.
TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
● International air fare.
● Visa fee and service charges if service provided for issuance of visas.
● Expense of personal nature like drinks, and also food drinks not forming part of the group menus, room service or mini-bar consumption, laundry, medical expenses, telephony and internet services, camera or video camera fee at monuments and tips.
● Personal Insurance is not included in the cost, hence any cost involving health which may include any type of medical expense or medication and any
cost derived due to illness would be charged extra. It is advised to take a personal travel insurance
● Cost of Optional or add-on tours unless mentioned otherwise.
● Airport taxes and airport departure tax normally included in the international tickets.
● Meals other than those mentioned as included in the itinerary.
● Services not mentioned in the 'The price includes' box.
VISA
● Travellers should carry a valid tourist visa for
● India
IMPORTANT NOTES
● The price provided is based on the prices and taxes existing at the time of calculation. Any increase in the airfare, in routing due to withdrawal of existing flights, taxes change if any would be advised at the time of booking.
● Any change in rate of exchange leading to an increase in the cost of the tour, which may come into effect prior to departure would be informed at the time of booking.
● Minimum reporting time in India for International flights in India is three hours and for internal flights is hour and a half.
● Child without bed - Is an individual under 12 years of age, sharing the room with 2 Full Paying adults and without a bed.
● Triple rooms do not exist in India, most hotels use roll away beds which is placed once you arrive at the hotel. The room size is the same as a Double Room.
● Once an air ticket is issued, any change of date or cancellation would attract a penalty charge levied by the airlines. Your sales officer will advise you the
amount at the time of making the date change.
● The tour will be operated, subject to a minimum of 06 full paying adult passengers. In the event that the group size is less than 06 adult passengers, you will be given an option of travelling as an individual tourist with private services. Additional supplement might apply. The Tour will be conducted on a seat-in-coach basis for group strength of 20- 25 persons, with the assistance of a local representative.
● Travel Insurance for the duration of the tour is not included in the tour price. However, any passengers who wish to take an insurance cover can request for it at an additional charges.
● The right to vary, amend or withdraw any particular itinerary, departure or excursion rests entirely with the company. Due to demand in particular airline in/ out points may change. Service, will however remain unchanged. Hotels / Flights / Airlines / Itinerary / Route subject to change without notice
HOTEL SELECTION
City
Nights
Elegant
Thimphu
02
Hotel Phuntsho Pelri / Hotel Kisa/ similar
Punakha
01
Zangto Pelri / Danchen Resort /similar
Paro
02
Tashi Namgay Resort / Kyichu Resort/similar
Delhi
01
Royal Plaza 4+/similar
PLANNED HOTELS [+]
Hotel Phuntsho Pelri, ThimphuHotel Phuntsho Pelri or "The Palace of Great Contentment", is the blend of true Bhutanese architecture with detailed modern facilities included. As the name suggests in Bhutanese, it is indeed a place where one is assured of a blissful feeling of contentment and peace amongst the high quality and comfort of the hotel...read more<>
Hotel Zangtho Pelri, Punakha
Zangto Pelri hotel is nestling amid lush sub-tropical garden of pine trees, named after the heaven of Guru Rimpoche situated on a hillock, featuring spacious, well designed rooms in cabins too. A charming place to stay and enjoy fascinating view of the river side rice terraces, constantly changing Himalayan weather....read more
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Tashi Namgay Resort, Paro
Tashi Namgay Resort is located on a rocky hill, overlooking Paro International Airport and the Pa Chu river, amidst five acres of lush foliage and sprawling green lawns. Peaceful environment through amalgamation of traditional Bhutanese and unique styled modern architecture with concern for the environment through the use of solar lights, wooden shingle roofing and mud walls...read more
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Hotel The Royal Plaza New Delhi
Hotel The Royal Plaza New Delhi offers 419 Luxury Guest Rooms and Suites, catering to varying needs, which combine warmth, exceptional service and state of the art technology in an attractive ambience. It also boasts of multi-cuisine restaurants and All day dining, bar, Night club and lounge for dining and entertainment options...read more
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ALTERNATE HOTELS [+]
Hotel Kisa, Thimphu
Kisa hotel is the unique blend of Bhutanese traditional and contemporary architecture. Surrounded by panoramic view of eastern Himalayan range and located right in the heart of the city overlooking sparkling river meandering across the valley. The newly built hotel offers several categories of luxury accommodation equipped with modern amenities, adorned with classical..read more
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Damchen Resort, Punakha
A charming place, situated conveniently close to Punakha town and river, it is of special reference for smaller groups. With its fascinating garden and overall ambience, the hotel exudes an atmosphere of quiet beauty and elegance. Rooms are cozy with traditional Bhutanese style. The classical decor at restaurant and bar is also interesting. The hotel is equipped with following...read more
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Kyichu Resort, ParoNestled in beautiful Paro valley, asprawling estate of 5 acres with manicured lawns, delightful local flowers and an adjoining 500m. river bank of Paro Chu, is the Kichu Resort where the essence of Bhutanese hospitality, warm smile and the comfort of friendly service awaits you. Kichu Resort, the perfect destination for the pleasures and leisure of the mind and body. During your stay here, you will..read more<>
Delhi
It is the capital of India since 1912 and the second most populous city in the country . Located in the center of the province of Delhi, is divided into two parts ( old and new ) and it can be admired forts, palaces , tombs and temples of the most varied styles with government buildings in colonial style, modern industries , trades and residential areas all with modern amenities . We recommend visiting the Red Fort, the Jama Masijd , Raj Ghat and the India Gate in the Old Town . In the new area we suggest the Qutab Minar, Birla Temple and the Sikh Temple.
Thimphu
The Kingdom’s capital city is home to approximately 100,000 inhabitants including the Royal family. This bustling little city is the main center of commerce, religion and government in the country.
Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers, however it still retains its’ cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization.Thimphu is one of the few towns in Bhutan that have been equipped with ATM banking facilities and is a good place to stock up on some currency.
One of the most curious features of Thimphu is that it is the only capital city in the world that does not use traffic lights. Instead a few major intersections have policemen standing in elaborately decorated booths (small pavilions), directing traffic with exaggerated hand motions. The juxtaposition of ancient tradition and modernity make Thimphu the ideal location for visitors to break away from their tour itinerary and just immerse themselves in the lifestyle of contemporary Bhutanese.
Dochula
Dochula pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is a popular location among tourists as it offers a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens- the construction of these108 chortens was commissioned by the eldest Queen Mother, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. The pass is also popular spiritual destination for both locals and tourists because an important temple is located on the crest of Dochula pass.
The Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple) was built in honor of His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The past and future appears to merge in the details of the lhakhang (temple) and its structure tells the story of a supreme warrior figure, whose vision pierces the distant future in a fine blend of history and mythology.
Bhutanese families enjoy visiting the pass during holidays and weekends to picnic and simply enjoy the scenery. It is common to see families and groups of friends seated amongst the chortens, enjoying a packed lunch and hot tea. For tourists this is ideal location to capture beautiful pictures of Himalayan mountain range during clear, warm days.
Punakha
Punakha Dzongkhag has been inextricably linked with momentous occasions in Bhutanese history. It served as the capital of the country from 1637 to 1907 and the first national assembly was hosted here in 1953. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of the most majestic structures in the country.
On October 13, 2011, the wedding of the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and his fiancé, Jetsun Pema, was held at the Punakha Dzong.
Punakha valley has a pleasant climate with warm winters and hot summers. It is located at an average elevation of 1200 meters above sea level. Owing to the favorable climatic conditions, rice grows very well in this region and is the main cash crop cultivated here.
Two major rivers in Bhutan the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu converge in this valley. Punakha Dzong is built at the confluence of these two rivers and is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls.
In addition to its structural beauty, Punakha Dzong is notable for containing the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifer of Bhutan as well as a sacred relic known as the Ranjung Karsapani. This relic is a self-created image of Avalokiteswara that miraculously emerged from the vertebrae of Tsangpa Gyarey the founder of the Drukpa School when he was cremated.
Wangdue Dzong
Wangdue Dzong has 14 temples, including Kunrey (assembly hall of monks). The Goenkhang has a figure of gonpo (Mahakala) carved on a stone slab.
Wangdue Dzong was razed to the ground on 26 June 2012. It is believed that the fire is caused by electrical short circuit. Though most of the Dzong expect for one monastery was destroyed, religious and historical relic managed to be rescued by volunteers and care keepers.
Semthoka Dzong
The name Simtokha literally means “Atop a Demon” and the legend associated with the dzong’s construction tells us that it was built in order to subdue an evil spirit that was harassing travelers in the region.
The dzong was modeled after the Gyal Gyad Tshel Institute of Ralung (Tibet) and is quite distinctive as its Utse or central tower has 12 sides. A large statue of Yeshay Gonpo (Mahakala) the chief protective deity of Bhutan is housed inside the Utse. Another interesting aspect of the dzong is that it contains the bed chambers of both Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and Jigme Namgyel two of the most important figures in Bhutanese history. Zhabdrung was the leader that first united Bhutan as a nation and Jigme Namgyel was the father of the first King of Bhutan Ugyen Wangchuck.
The dzong houses countless statues and paintings of various Buddhas, deities and religious figures including The Eight Manifestations of Guru Rimpoche, Jampelyang the Bodhisattava of Wisdom, Shakya Gyalpo the Buddha of Compassion and many more, all carved and painted in exquisite detail.
Paro
Paro valley extends from the confluence of the Paro Chhu and the Wang Chhu rivers at Chuzom upto Mt. Jomolhari at the Tibetan border to the North. This picturesque region is one of the widest valleys in the kingdom and is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley.
Accentuating the natural beauty are the many elegant, traditional-style houses that dot the valley and surrounding hills. Paro town has been growing rapidly in recent years and there are plenty of restaurants, bakeries and cafes to choose from. One of the distinctive features of Paro town is that it is situated in a flat valley bottom and follows a grid-like pattern. The central plaza is adorned with a large prayer wheel and a small amphitheater at which events such as concerts are often organized
Visitors often spend several days in Paro as there are over 155 temples and monasteries in this area, some dating as far back as 14th century. Among them is the temple that is considered Bhutan’s most iconic landmark Taktsang Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest. This awe-inspiring temple was constructed upon a sheer cliff face, hundreds of meters above forests of oak and rhododendrons and the valley floor. Dzongdrakha Temple and Kila Gompa are secondary examples of cliff-side temples that are also located in Paro Dzongkhag.
The country’s first international airport is located in Paro. Due to the close proximity of the airport and the many historical and religious sites in the region there are a large number of luxurious, high-end tourist resorts in Paro.
Paro is also home to the National museum. The museum is set in Paro Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that now displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artwork including traditional costumes, armour, weaponry and handcrafted implements for daily life. The collection at the National Museum preserves a snap-shot of the rich cultural traditions of the country.
Another site worth visiting Paro is Drugyel dzong or The Fortress of the Victorious Bhutanese. This dzong was constructed by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 to commemorate his victory over marauding Tibetan armies. Though the fortress was destroyed by fire in 1951, the ruins remain an impressive and imposing sight.
IMPORTANT NOTES
HOTELS ...
MEALS ...
TRAVEL BY ROAD ...
AIRFARES AND TRAVELLING BY AIR ...
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE ...
First Class 40 Kgs.
Executive Class 35 Kgs.
Economy Class (Y,B,M & H) 20 Kgs.
Economy Class (K,Q,V,W,G,L,U,S,T,X, N & E) 15 Kgs.
Infants not entitled to a seat (All economy classes) Nil
INSURANCE ...
FESTIVALS ...
Local festivals may fall on the date of travel and it is possible that the visits to places of interest are modified by the local government or authorities for which we cannot be held responsible. The program would be amended accordingly so that none of the visits included are missed on an alternative provided.
ACTIVITIES ...
(Wildlife Safari/ Boat ride/ Desert & Rural Safari/ Bicycle & Rickshaw Ride/ Animal Rides)
Boats: To take part in any boat ride, you need to be of average mobility to be able to climb on and off all these boats unaided; able to disembark onto makeshift docks without handrails, or onto muddy and slippery riverbanks.
Canters: These are large, open trucks with wooden bench seats in the back and used for safaris on sharing basis in the national parks.
Elephant ride at Amber Fort (Jaipur): Elephant rides can either be taken to the fort or from the fort based on the directives received from the Rajasthan State Tourism Board and are booked on first come-first serve basis. As such for Elephant ride at Amber Fort, an early departure from the hotel is recommended. Also note Elephant ride to or from the Fort is subject to same being operational and may be stopped due to various reasons by Rajasthan State Tourism Board
Important: At all times, our Tour Managers, Local Guides, and Representatives will assist and brief guests about these activities but cannot guarantee the uninterrupted services during their stay in Indian Subcontinent. All guests must bear full responsibilities for such activities releasing Indior Tours, its associates, its directors, its agents of any claim. It would be in your interest to buy a suitable insurance to cover all risks associated with such travel.
SUGGESTED CLOTHING ...
POPULATION ...
In order not to encourage begging, we suggest that you should not distribute anything during your visits (candy, money, toys, pens etc.).Should you wish to made donations in cash or kind, please consult your guide who would provide you with the best advice.
We suggest that you spend your money to buy locally produced things made my local craftsmen and take them to the country of your origin and contribute to the local economy thus providing work to those in need.
PRICE AND OTHER CONDITION OF SALE ...
RECOMMENDED TIPS ...
(Indicative only because it is at the discretion of each / not to spare but only tickets ) :
CANCELLATION FEES ...