CULTURAL EXPLORATIONS
Quest for the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
TRIP SUMMARY
Bhutan’s culture and heritage is full of mystic, shrouded in the mist of time. This itinerary offers a unique opportunity to glimpse the past and see how it remains entwined in every day life. We will walk in the beautiful landscape, hike to monasteries clinging to the cliff-face, explore the pristine forests looking for rare and endangered birds and mammal, visit dzong’s and be amazed how such buildings still stand without mortar or nails, understand a little of the history of Bhutan in the Ta Dzongs and museums and witness the heritage of this magical kingdom where ‘Gross National Happiness’ is ever present!
Brief Daily Itinerary
Day 01.
Upon arrival in Bangkok transfer to a centrally located hotel in Bangkok. In the evening, meet your rest of the group for a briefing. Dinner is independent. Overnight at hotel. (Hotel Bangkok)
Day 02.
Flight into Paro from Bangkok. Visit Ta Dzong, the national museum.
Day 03.
Paro to Thimphu, (55 km, 1.30 hrs), visit the Memorial Chorten (stupa) and visit the 13 arts school.
Day 04.
Cultural visits in Thimphu to include the Weekend Market and Buddha Point.
Day 05.
Thimphu to Punakha (70kms, 3 hrs), stopping over at Dochu La and Chemmi Lhakhang.
Day 06.
Cultural visits in Punakha.
Day 07.
Attend the Annual Crane Festival and walk the glaciated valley of Phobjikha.
Day 08.
Punakha to Phobjikha (85kms, 3.5 hrs), stopping along Nobding for wildlife and nature.
Day 09.
Phobjikha to Tangsibji (58kms, 2 hrs), visit Tangsibji village.
Day 10.
Tangsibji to Trongsa (23kms 1 hr), visit Tangsibji village in the morning.
Day 11.
Trongsa to Bumthang (69kms, 3 hrs).
Day 12.
Cultural visits in Bumthang.
Day 13.
Flight from Bumthang to Paro (25mins) and cultural visits in Paro.
Day 14.
Hike up to Tigers Nest monastery (5 hrs return hike).
Day 15.
Paro to Chele La excursion for high altitude birding and amazing views across snow-topped Jhomolhari. Returning to Paro for cultural program and farewell dinner.
Day 16.
Flight from Paro to Bangkok for onward connection.
DATES & PRICING
Trip Date:
November 5 – 20, 2023
Prices:
6-9 travelers:
$5,680 per person, standard twin occupancy*
10-13 travelers:
$5,460 per person, standard twin occupancy*
14-16 travelers:
$5,160 per person, standard twin occupancy*
International flight:
Bangkok – Paro – Bangkok = US$ 1,200
Domestic flight:
Bumthang – Paro (Drukair) = US$ 290
Optional single supplement:
$850 per person
*Flights costs are subject to change
GALLERY
ACCOMMODATIONS & TRANSPORTATION
Hotel
Throughout the trip, you will stay in comfortable, 3-4 star tourist lodges with excellent food and service. They are often cozy and located in scenic areas offering great views.
Guides
We only work with true local and well experienced national guides who really makes a difference on the trip. You will be amazed how knowledgeable and fun they are to travel with.
