THE LAST SHANGRILA: BHUTAN

A hidden gem in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a model of holistic development that prioritizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over economic growth. The country's culture is deeply rooted in its Buddhist heritage, with vibrant festivals and intricate Thangka paintings. Bhutan's philosophy includes four pillars: sustainable development, cultural preservation, environmental protection and good governance. The country's landscape is spectacular, with towering peaks and lush valleys filled with terraced rice fields and dense forests. Bhutan has made significant strides in environmental protection, with more than 70% of its land remaining forested and the government maintaining carbon neutrality. However, Bhutan faces challenges in balancing tradition and modernization, such as rapid globalization threatening local customs and lifestyles. Initiatives aimed at supporting rural development while preserving cultural identity are essential to combat this trend. Tourism management plays a key role in Bhutan's economy, but managing visitor numbers while protecting cultural integrity is a challenge. The government has a high-value, low-impact tourism policy that requires travelers to book through licensed operators at a minimum daily rate. Bhutan offers valuable lessons for the modern world and challenges us to rethink our values โ€‹โ€‹and priorities.

Itinerary

  • 1

    ARRIVE PARO - THIMPHU

    Touch down in Paro. Travel to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. The drive offers views of the Paro valley.

  • 2

    PARO SIGHT SEEING

    Explore Paro's cultural sites. Visit Rinpung Dzong, a fort and monastery. See Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples.

  • 3

    PARO โ€“ A EXCURSION TO TAKTSHANG

    Hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tigerโ€™s Nest. This iconic temple clings to a cliffside. The trek is challenging but rewarding.

  • 4

    PARO - A EXCURSION TO HAA VALLEY AND DRIVE BACK VIA CHELLELA PASS

    Take a day trip to Haa Valley. Cross Chele La Pass, Bhutan's highest road pass. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.

  • 5

    PARO-THIMPHU

    Travel from Paro back to Thimphu. Enjoy the scenery on the way. Relax in Thimphu after your journey.

  • 6

    THIMPHU - TRONGSA

    Drive from Thimphu to Trongsa. The journey takes you through central Bhutan. You will see varied landscapes.

  • 7

    TRONGSA - BUMTHANG

    Continue to Bumthang, a region of spiritual significance. Visit Trongsa Dzong, Bhutan's largest fortress, before you leave. The drive to Bumthang is scenic.

  • 8

    BUMTHANG- A DAY EXCURSION TO URA

    Explore Ura Valley, one of Bumthang's four main valleys. Experience its unique charm. Ura is known for its rural beauty.

  • 9

    BUMTHANG

    Discover Bumthang's monasteries and temples. Visit Jakar Dzong, the "Castle of the White Bird." Explore the valley's rich history.

  • 10

    BUMTHANG - TRONGSA

    Travel back to Trongsa from Bumthang. Enjoy the views again. Reflect on your time in Bumthang.

  • 11

    TRONGSA - WANGDUE VIA GANGTEY

    Head to Wangdue, stopping at Gangtey Monastery. Gangtey Valley is a wide glacial valley. It is also the winter home of black-necked cranes.

  • 12

    WANGDUE - PUNAKHA - PARO

    Visit Punakha Dzong, located at the meeting of two rivers. Drive back to Paro. See more of Bhutan's landscape.

  • 13

    PARO โ€“ PARO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

    Depart from Paro International Airport. Take with you memories of Bhutan.

Services

Cost Includes

  • Bhutan Government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): USD $100 per person per night (as of 2023โ€“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

  • 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 separately
    Personal Expenses:Tips, laundry, drinks, shopping, phone calls, etc.

    Optional Activities: Cultural programs, hot stone baths, archery sessions, or any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

    Upgrades to Luxury Hotels or Services: If you want to upgrade to 4- or 5-star accommodation or private luxury transport

    Extra Nights: If you choose to stay beyond the scheduled itinerary

    Medical or Emergency Evacuation Costs: If required during the trip

Equipments

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