BHUTAN: THE MAGICAL KINGDOM TOUR
Located in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its stunning landscape, unique culture and rich spiritual heritage. The country adopted Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a measure of progress and prioritized the well-being of its people over economic growth. Bhutanese are known for their warmth, emphasis on sustainable living and dedication to preserving culture and nature. The journey begins in the Paro Valley, home to the kingdom's only international airport. The dramatic landscape features terraced fields and towering mountains with Taktshang Monastery, also known as the 'Tiger's Nest'. The capital and political and cultural heart of Bhutan, Thimphu offers a blend of modernity and tradition and offers an excellent place to explore Bhutanese arts and crafts. Punakha, the ancient capital, is a must-see destination where the Punakha Dzong symbolizes peace and protection. The region is known for its rich cheeses, apple orchards and local festivals. Bhutan is also known for its colorful festivals, or tshechs, which showcase traditional dances, music and rituals, bringing communities together and protecting cultural heritage.
Minimum travellers | 2 |
Maximum travellers | 10 |
Itinerary
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1
ARRIVE PARO (BY DRUK AIR FLIGHT)
Your guide will pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. Visit Drukgyal Dzong, built in 1647 by Shabdurng Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory. Enjoy the amazing view of Jhmolhari mountain. Visit the Kichu Lhakhang, built by the Tibetan King Srongsen Gamp to conquer the Demon. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
2PARO, EXCURSION TO TAKTSHANG MONASTERY
After breakfast, departure to Satsam Chorten, a beautiful pine forest. Visit Taktshang Jakhang for refreshments and see Taktshang Monastery, built around Guru Rimpoche's meditation cave in 1684. Visit Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower, and Romping Dzong, the central civil and religious authority. Transfer to Thimphu and overnight at the hotel.
3PARO - THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING
Visit National Memorial Chorten, National Library, School of Painting, Institute of Traditional Medicine, Lungtenzampa, Tashichho Dzong, Tashichho Dzong, Central Monastic Body, Je Khenpo Summer Residence, Handicrafts Centre, Thimphu and overnight at hotel. Explore ancient Buddhist manuscripts, traditional art and a Bhutanese paper mill.
4THIMPHU - PUNAKHA
After breakfast drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass where you can see the High Himalayas. Visit the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the "Temple of Fertility". Visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which served as the seat of government until the time of the second king. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Place of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter seat of Je-Khempa and in 1952 hosted a new national assembly. Excursion to Khamsung Yulley Namgyal Choling Monastery. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
5PUNAKHA - GANGTEY
Built in 1638, Wangdiphodrang Dzong is located at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Rang Chu rivers. Legend has it that four raves were seen flying away, signifying the spread of Buddhism. Nyingmapa Monastery, founded by Gyalte Pema Thinley and Tenzin Legpai Dhendup, is affiliated with other Nyingmapa monasteries. Explore the Phobjikh Valley, famous for its black naked cranes, and spend the night in a guest house.
6GANGTEY - THIMPHU
After breakfast departure to Thimphu. After lunch, a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum and an excursion to the Cheri Monastery. Evening crossing to Paro. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
7FINAL DEPARTURE
Early morning departure to the airport and farewell.
Services
Cost Includes
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Bhutan Government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD $100 per person per night (as of 2023–2024 for international tourists)
Visa Fee: USD $40 per person
Accommodation: 3-star hotels (as per government regulations)/ 4-star/luxury hotels at an additional cost
All Meals (Full Board): Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (at the hotel or local restaurants)
Private Tour Vehicle: Comfortable vehicle with a professional driver
Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide: English-speaking guide (other language guides may be available upon request)
Sightseeing and Entry Fees: All permits and entrance fees to monuments, temples, museums, and national parks
Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at Paro International Airport
Bottled Drinking Water: Usually provided during tours and treks
Internal Permits: For restricted areas like Haa Valley, Bumthang, or Trashigang (if included in your itinerary)
Cost Excludes
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Flights to and from Bhutan: International airfare to Bhutan (usually via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines from Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, etc.)Travel Insurance: Mandatory for entry, but must be purchased separatelyPersonal Expenses:Tips, laundry, drinks, shopping, phone calls, etc.Optional Activities: Cultural programs, hot stone baths, archery sessions, or any activities not mentioned in the itineraryUpgrades to Luxury Hotels or Services: If you want to upgrade to 4- or 5-star accommodation or private luxury transportExtra Nights: If you choose to stay beyond the scheduled itineraryMedical or Emergency Evacuation Costs: If required during the trip
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