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Bhutan

The land of the thunder dragon!

22 Mar to 29 Mar 2020

Birding and nature orientation camps | Himalayan tours | Some would be led by Dr. Parag.

Bhutan   (View All Batches)

Overview

Bhutan is a land like no other. This tiny, landlocked country, nestled high up in the eastern Himalaya, is Nature's ultimate gift to us. Mighty mountains covered by magnificent Rhododendrons and Pines, beautiful rivers and streams flowing merrily, calm and peace-loving people without a care in the world and finally, the magic of the brilliant Buddhist architecture and the greatest testimony to it, the imposing and intricately decorated Dzongs, is what Bhutan is all about.

The quaint roads leading to one beautiful place after another, the distant chanting of the monks reverberating through the rarified air at the monasteries and the awe-inspiring display of natural beauty are all enough reasons to transport you into another world. Bhutan is a wonder, a timeless masterpiece of beauty, charm and mysticism. 

On this fabled journey of ours, covering 8 days and the whole of Bhutan, we go off the beaten track and explore some of Bhutan's lesser-known monasteries, go on village walks through dense jungles of Rhododendron and get to know the culture and the people! We will, of course, visit the bustling Bhutanese capital, Thimphu, famous for its dainty buildings and the gigantic Tashichho Dzong and the small yet pretty region around Punakha. The Punakha Dzong, Bhutan's most spectacular building is next on our list. From there on, we will move into relatively unchartered territory and visit the beautiful valleys of central Bhutan. Pristine, surreal and heavenly, these places would seem like a fairy tale to you. Unwillingly, after a few short days, we will retrace our way back to Thimphu and then towards Paro. The world famous Tiger's Nest monastery, situated atop a gigantic cliff, is the stuff of local legend. Mythical and dreamy, this place is sure to make a place in your hearts forever. Across the Paro valley and up towards the eternally snow-clad mountains is a remote place called Haa, known for its astounding vistas and utter peace. Haa is an idyll, we will live it, cherish it, love it.

And then, after 8 fascinating days, we will fly back from Paro, which is an experience in itself. Sitting in the plane and marveling at the breathtaking panorama of the Himalaya all around, you will know that this is the ultimate Shangri-la. You will bid a teary-eyed farewell to that magical kingdom under the clouds, smiling gladly in the knowledge that you have experienced the 'Last Shangri-la'. 

The 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', the ageless miracle of Nature shaped by the artistry and spirituality of Man, would beckon you once again. For the time being, you will sit relaxed and content.

Day 1
FLY PUNE/MUMBAI-BAGDOGRA. BAGDOGRA-PHUNTSHOLING

We will fly from Pune/Mumbai to Bagdogra and thereon move by road towards Phuntsholing, the border town between Bhutan and India. After a hectic day of traveling, we will relax at the charming little town of Phuntsholing and over dinner, we will discuss the plan of action for the upcoming few days.

Day 2
PHUNTSHOLING-THIMPHU.

After a sumptuous breakfast, we proceed to Bhutan Govt’s permit office to get permits for our tour (the formalities of which shall be done by our local representatives beforehand but we have to personally visit for the biometric). After completing these formalities, we make our way towards Thimphu. This is a breathtaking drive passing through dense forests of pine and rhododendron and through dainty little ancient villages and hamlets. On our arrival in Thimphu, we set out to explore the gigantic Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutanese government and one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture, where we spend a beautiful evening.

Day 3
ENTIRE DAY AT THIMPHU

We dedicate another day to explore the gorgeous town of Thimphu, the only national capital in the world without traffic signals! We will visit the National Memorial Chorten, the Folk Heritage Museum, the Zilukha Nunnery, the Changangkha Lhakhang and other such brilliant places full of Bhutanese culture, heritage and art. We will also visit the Motithang Takin Preserve, to see Bhutan’s National animal.

Day 4
THIMPU SIGHTSEEING - PUNAKHA.

Bhutan`s erstwhile capital and the home to Bhutan`s most impressive monument, Punakha is an instant favourite among all travelers. The mighty Punakha Dzong, situated between two rivers and accessed via an old and drop-dead-gorgeous wooden bridge is huge, mystical and beautiful.

The distant humming of the monks, the incredibly peaceful atmosphere, the happily swaying cherry and apple trees and the towering ramparts of the Dzong would all make you intoxicated with delight and ecstasy

Day 5
PUNAKHA - HAA

The Haa valley is a land located deep in the interiors of Bhutan and known for its terraced rice-fields and mythical history. The valley also commands brilliant views of Bhutan's loftiest peaks on a clear day. Tranquil and peaceful, a day in the Haa valley is said to relive you of all your worries. It is a magical place, best experienced than written about. Our night would be at an ancient home, now converted into a guesthouse.

Day 6
HAA - PARO

Today we drive to Paro, our last destination on this fabled route. Paro is a tiny village, cold and idyllic, nestled high up in the mountains and home to some ethereal places. In the evening, after visiting the Paro Dzong and the National Museum and taking in the magnificent views of the Paro valley from up there, we go and explore the richly stocked Paro market. A few Bhutanese souvenirs and we head back to our resort deep in the woods around Paro.

Day 7
PARO.

We have kept the best for the last. The Tiger`s Nest monastery, that world-famous symbol of Bhutan`s culture, mystery and magic, is as captivating as it is mystical. The long walk through clouds and forests up to the monastery, the first glimpse of the Tiger`s Nest and finally the cavernous structures atop the gigantic cliff would all be with you till the end of time. The Tiger`s Nest arouses your senses, touches your soul. It is a blessed place. After the Tiger`s Nest, contentedly tired, we make our way back to our hotel

Day 8
FLY PARO - KOLKATA.

After those incredible 8 days, it is time to go back. But, there`s one final great moment of joy still left - flying over the Himalaya. The flight to Kolkata, on a clear day, can offer you views of some of the greatest peaks in the Himalaya. You will fly over huge glaciers, massifs and peaks before touching down in Kolkata.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a heady mix of nature, culture, hiking and sightseeing.
  • Revel in the expertise of Beyond Wild’s mentor cum tour expert
  • Get to taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine and explore their culture and art.
  • A chance to learn more about Bhutan from the best local guides at all places on the tour
  • Scenic views as well as amazing photo opportunities!
  • Stay at luxury resorts strategically selected to give you utmost comfort as also sweeping views of the mountains and jungles all around.
  • Cherish this most iconic of Himalayan roadtrips

Costs

GST of 5% extra on the total cost.

Inclusions

  1. Accommodation at luxury hotels for 7 nights in well appointed rooms equipped with all basic amenities.
  2. All transfers and sightseeing in Bhutan as per itinerary in well maintained surface transfers vehicles.
  3. All meals on the tour - from lunch on day 1 to breakfast on day 8.
  4. Bhutan entry permit, route permits and other formalities.
  5. Services of an expert Bhutanese cultural guide on the tour.
  6. All monument entrances as per itinerary.
  7. Services of a Beyond Wild tour leader cum Bhutan expert.

Exclusions

  1. Any airfare / railfare.
  2. Personal expenses like Medical bills, laundry, telephone, any beverages, insurance tips, etc.
  3. Expenses that are incurred due to reasons beyond the control of organizers such as route change, airline change, flight cancellation, landslides, etc.
  4. Anything not mentioned in the 'Inclusions' section.

Travel to and fro:

While the travel upto Bagdogra on Day 1 and travel back from Paro on Day 8 is extra, we can assist you to book the flights or book it for you. Please contact our head office at info@beyondwild.in for further details regarding the arrangements and we shall be more than happy to help you.

Booking Procedure


Cancellation - Refund (On Tour Cost)

  • If cancellation is communicated 10 days (or less) before departure OR No Show - No Refund.
  • If cancellation is communicated 20 to 11 days before departure - 20% of tour cost refunded.
  • If cancellation is communicated 30 to 21 days before departure - 40% of tour cost refunded.
  • If cancellation is communicated 30 to 59 days before departure - 60% of tour cost refunded.
  • If cancellation is communicated 60 days (or more) before departure - 80% of tour cost refunded.
  • If cancellation is communicated 120 days (or more) before departure - Full Refund.