Bhutan often revered as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” or ‘Druk Yul’, is still regarded as one of the last “Shangri-La’s” in the Himalayan region because of its remoteness, its spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and its unique ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is in the relatively unexplored pockets of Asia, which allows only a limited number of discerning travelers in order to preserve its fragile environment and culture in its magical purity.
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Reaching Bagdogra Airport on your own : 46,999/- per person ( Inclusive of 5% GST )
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Mumbai to Mumbai by Air : 69,999/- per person ( Inclusive of 5% GST )
Mumbai to Bagdogra and Bagdogra to Mumbai time:
- Mumbai to Bagdogra
Departure from Mumbai : 08.10 Hrs
Arrival at Bagdogra : 10.55 Hrs
- Mumbai to Bagdogra ( Only for 26th May 2024 )
Departure from Mumbai : 05.10 Hrs
Arrival at Bagdogra : 10.30 Hrs
- Bagdogra to Mumbai
Departure from Bagdogra : 11.30 Hrs
Arrival at Mumbai : 14.30 Hrs
Day 1: Bagdogra to Jaigaon / Overnight at Jaigaon
Arrive at Bagdogra and drive to Jaigaon. Take a walk to nearby Zangtog Pelri Lhakhang and spend the day at leisure and take rest.
Day 2: Phuentsholing to Thimphu / Overnight at Thimphu
Process the Entry Permit, early morning and after the breakfast, we will drive to Thimphu. The drive to Thimphu is very scenic, once we climb up from the Indian plain to Bhutan foothills through beautiful forest, towns and roadside villages. Our drive will pass through Gedu, Chukha, and Chuzom before emerging ourselves into the only multicultural city in Bhutan. Check into the hotel. Overnight in Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu Sightseeing / Overnight at Thimphu
After breakfast, first we will process the Inner Line Permit and visit Memorial Chorten which was built by Her majesty Ashi Phuntsho Choden in memory of her late son His majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk ("the father of modern Bhutan") the third king of Bhutan. Kuensel Phodrang where you can see largest Buddha statue in Bhutan which is about 169 feet tall. If time permits, we’ll explore Folk and Textile Heritage Museums, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan's living traditions.
In the afternoon we’ll drive to the town for lunch and post lunch we will visit Trashichho Dzong, the beautiful fortress which houses most of the Government's office and King's Throne room. Dinner and night halt at Thimphu.
Day 4: Thimphu to Punakha / Overnight at Punakha
Today we will drive towards Punakha and on the way, we will make a brief halt at Dochula Pass. 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 After reaching Punakha and having lunch we’ll enjoy breathtaking view from Hanging Bridge and proceed to explore Puankha Dzong which is built on the confluence of Phochu (Male River) and Mochu (Female River) and considered as most beautiful dzong of Bhutan. Then and on the way, will visit Chimi Lhakhang which was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley in 15th century (This monk is popularly known as the Devine madman for his philosophy, "Salvation through sex"). He subdued the demons with his Magical Thunder Bolt. The Temple is also known as The Temple of Fertility.
Day 5: Punakha to Paro / Overnight at Paro
After breakfast, we’ll drive towards Paro and in the afternoon,and after reaching Paro we will visit to Rinpung Dzong which was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first National Museum spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan. The Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. Finally, we’ll end our day with Kyichu Lhakhang,one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to 7th century. In the evening stroll in Paro town. Dinner and overnight at Paro.
Day 6: Hike to Tiger’s Nest / Overnight at Paro
After early breakfast will hike to Paro Taktsang which is one of the most popular monastery visited by the tourist. It was first built in 1692, around the Taktsang Senge Samdup, a cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for three months in the 8th century. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava) flew to this location from Khenpajong, Tibet on the back of a tigress and subdued a demon. He then performed meditation in one of the caves here and emerged in eight incarnated forms (manifestations) and blessed the place. Subsequently, the place came to be known as the Tiger's Nest. Guru Padmasambhava is known for introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. Today, Paro Taktsang is the best known of the thirteen caves in which he meditated.
Day 7: Paro to Jaigaon
After our breakfast, we will retrace our scenic drive back to Jaigaon. Relax in the hotel and get prepared for your departure the next day.
Day 8: Jaigaon to Bagdogra
Time to fly back home! Trip concludes with happy memories!
Please note that at any given point of time if the event has participants count which is 6 or less in number the event might get automatically converted into a customised one, i.e there shall be a local representative from Trikon that will greet you directly at the starting point.
What is included in the tour
- Accommodation in Twin / Triple rooms at all destinations as per the itinerary
- Breakfast (Day 2 – Day 8) & Dinner (Day 1 – Day 7 ) as per the itinerary
- Comfortable Non-AC Hiace Bus / Winger vehicle, as per the itinerary
- Pickup & Drop from Bagdogra on Day 1 and Day 8, as per the itinerary
- Sustainable Development Fee ( 1200 rs per person / per day )
- Entry Fees at the sightseeing points as mentioned below
- Taktsang Monastery, Paro ( Tiger Nest Trek )
- Memorial Chorten, Thimphu
- Punakha Dzong, Punakha
- 5% GST
What is NOT included in the tour
- Train / Flight Ticket till Bagdogra & Return
- Lunch on all days, throughout the tour
- Any miscellaneous expenditure incurred during the tour
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
- Blend the profound and rich culture of Bhutan
- Experience the unique architecture of buildings
- Experience the largest statue of the country at Kuensel Phodrang
- Visit the most beautiful and oldest Dzong at the old capital, Punakha.
- Experience the 108 memorial stupas at Dochula
- Trek to Tiger’s Nest, a Monastery hanging in the cliff.
Q: What are the visa requirements for traveling to Bhutan?
A: All tourists visiting Bhutan must obtain a visa. The visa application must be submitted through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or travel agent. The Bhutanese government requires that all tourists pay a minimum daily tariff that covers accommodation, meals, transport, and a licensed guide. Once the tariff is paid, the visa will be issued by the Department of Immigration in Bhutan.
Q: What is the best time to visit Bhutan?
A: The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. These months offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and are the best times for trekking and sightseeing. However, Bhutan can be visited year-round, and each season offers unique experiences.
Q: How do I get to Bhutan?
A: Bhutan has one international airport, Paro International Airport, which is served by Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. These airlines operate flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Dhaka, and Singapore. Alternatively, visitors can enter Bhutan by road through the southern border towns of Phuentsholing, Gelephu, and Samdrup Jongkhar.
Q: What is the currency used in Bhutan?
A: The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee. Indian Rupees are also widely accepted in Bhutan.
Q: What is the official language of Bhutan?
A: The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in the tourism industry.
Q: Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Bhutan?
A: Visitors are recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. If traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever, a yellow fever vaccination is also required. It is advisable to consult a travel health specialist before traveling to Bhutan.
Q: Can I use credit cards in Bhutan?
A: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Bhutan. It is advisable to carry cash or travelers' cheques in major currencies like US dollars or euros.
Q: What are the popular tourist attractions in Bhutan?
A: Popular tourist attractions in Bhutan include the Tiger's Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Paro Valley, Thimphu, and the Bumthang Valley. Bhutan is also known for its stunning natural beauty and offers excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking.
Q: What is the food like in Bhutan?
A: Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spicy flavors and use of local ingredients like chili peppers, cheese, and buckwheat. The national dish is Ema Datshi, a spicy stew made with chilies and cheese.
Q: Are there any cultural customs or practices I should be aware of before visiting Bhutan?
A: Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect Bhutanese customs and traditions. When visiting temples and monasteries, it is important to remove your shoes and hat and cover your shoulders and legs.
Q: What is the dress code for visiting Bhutan's temples and monasteries?
A: When visiting temples and monasteries, visitors must wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and legs. Shorts and sleeve.
Q: What souvenirs or handicrafts can I buy in Bhutan?
A: Textiles, Handicrafts, Jewelry, Bhutanese Paper, Incense, Bhutanese Tea, Bhutanese Snacks, Bhutanese Stamps and Bhutanese Souvenir Coins
Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan is a small country located in the Himalayas, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-visit places in Bhutan:
- Tiger's Nest Monastery
- Punakha Dzong
- National Memorial Chorten
- Dochula Pass
- Gangtey Valley
- Haa Valley
- Bumthang Valley
The Tiger's Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan. It is a sacred Buddhist site located on a cliffside in the Paro Valley. Visitors can hike up to the monastery, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The Punakha Dzong is a majestic fortress located at the confluence of two rivers. It is one of the oldest and most beautiful dzongs (fortresses) in Bhutan, and served as the capital of the country until the 1950s. The dzong is open to visitors and houses many important relics and religious artifacts.
The National Memorial Chorten is a stupa located in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. It was built in memory of the third king of Bhutan and is a popular site for prayer and meditation. Visitors can walk around the chorten and see locals circumambulating and offering prayers.
The Dochula Pass is a mountain pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas and is known for its 108 chortens (stupas) and a temple dedicated to the goddess Druk Wangyal.
The Gangtey Valley is a picturesque valley located in central Bhutan. It is known for its natural beauty, and is home to the black-necked crane, which migrates to the valley during the winter months. Visitors can go on nature walks and hikes in the valley, and visit the Gangtey Monastery, which is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan.
The Haa Valley is a remote valley located in western Bhutan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, and is home to several ancient temples and monasteries. Visitors can go on hikes and treks in the valley, and experience the unique culture and traditions of the local Haa people.
The Bumthang Valley is a beautiful valley located in central Bhutan. It is known for its historic temples and monasteries, and is often referred to as the cultural heartland of Bhutan. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or by bicycle, and visit the many important religious sites in the area.
Shopping to do in Bhutan
Bhutan is known for its unique arts and crafts, and shopping in Bhutan can be a delightful experience. The country is a treasure trove of unique handicrafts that are handmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Here are some shopping experiences to enjoy while in Bhutan:
- Textiles: Bhutan is known for its beautiful textiles, which are handmade by local weavers using traditional techniques. The most famous Bhutanese textile is the kira, a woven dress worn by women. Other popular textiles include the gho, a woven robe worn by men, and the yathra, a woven woolen fabric used for blankets and clothing.
- Handicrafts: Bhutan is home to many skilled artisans who make a variety of handicrafts. Some popular handicrafts include wooden bowls, prayer wheels, masks, and hand-carved wooden items.
- Jewelry: Bhutanese jewelry is unique and often incorporates traditional symbols and motifs. Silver and turquoise are popular materials used in jewelry making in Bhutan.
- Paintings: Bhutanese art is heavily influenced by Buddhist traditions, and many artists create intricate paintings and thangkas (scroll paintings) depicting religious figures and scenes.
- Incense and traditional medicine: Bhutanese incense is made from natural ingredients, and the country is also known for its traditional medicine, which uses local herbs and ingredients.
- Handmade paper products: Bhutanese paper is handmade from the bark of the daphne plant and is used to make a variety of products such as journals, greeting cards, and lampshades.
- Bhutanese food: Bhutanese food is unique and offers a range of flavors and spices. Some popular Bhutanese food items that you can take back as souvenirs include red rice, buckwheat noodles, and Bhutanese chili sauce.
While shopping in Bhutan, it is important to buy from licensed stores and support local artisans. The Bhutanese government has a policy of promoting locally made handicrafts, and buying these items helps to support the local economy and preserve traditional crafts.
- Valid Identity Proof (Passport / VoterID Card), along with 5 Photocopies for each document.
- If you do not have either of Passport or Voter ID Card, please carry Aadhaar Card along with another supporting document such as PAN Card / Driving License / Ration Card. In this case please inform the lead in advance.
- 5 Passport Size Color Photographs
Water Bottles - A lightweight Haversack or Backpack, and a smaller Day Sack
- Good pair of trekking shoes, and a pair of flip-flops
- Woolen Gloves, woolen socks, Monkey
- Cap/Balaclava, Neck Scarf
- Thermal Inners
- Jackets
- Waterproof gloves and windcheater/poncho
Personal clothing (Dressing Moderately is mandatory to visit Monasteries and Dzongs) - Cap, sunglasses, scarf Camera, Binoculars (Optional)
- Toiletries – Sunscreen, Moisturizer, Light towel, Lip balm, Wet wipes, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Hand Sanitizer
- Extra Polythene Bags (To segregate used/ unused garments, wet/ dry clothing)
- Any medicines that you consume normally, post consulting a doctor Mosquito repellent
Snacks & Biscuits to munch on (As some journeys are 6-7 hours long) Enerzyl Powder or Glucon D powder
Disclaimers:
- Any customization in arrival and departures may lead to additional cost.
- Customization would not be adjusted with any inclusions such as missed sightseeing, stay, meals etc.
- Due to delay by participants if any destination gets missed same will not be covered.
- If any of the points remains closed without prior intimation, we will try to cover it up with another destination if feasible.
IMPORTANT:
- Please note that Bhutan is culturally very rich and have intentionally preserved their cultures by maintaining distances from western cultures. So please respect their culture and please refrain from commenting on bullying about Bhutanese and their culture.
- Bhutan still follows Monarchical System. Thus, please respect The King and The Queen and please refrain from commenting anything about the same. Please use “His Highness” or “Her Highness” if you need to refer The King and/or The Queen or anyone from Royal Family in public.
- Bhutanese on a regular basis chew “Doma” which is dried Areca Nut. The smell can be an issue for some days though until you get accustomed!!
- Bhutanese are very religious and follow Buddhism. Please refrain from touching holy items without permission and maintain discipline within Monasteries and Dzongs. Dzongs are also the administrative office of respective districts (Dzongkhags) and this is where the Royal Family is supposed to live. So please maintain extra caution while visiting Dzongs in particular.
- You must be dressed moderately while visiting Monasteries and Dzongs. You’ll not be allowed to enter in revealing dresses and thus please refrain from wearing such dresses.
- Participants must carry cash in order to survive and buy anything in Bhutan. Except high end luxury hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops, plastic money such as credit card and debit card are not accepted throughout Bhutan.
- Most Indian Debit Cards are not authorized to use in Bhutan even if International Transaction is enabled. So please carry cash from your home town.
- Avoid wearing precious Jewelry, as Trikon won’t be responsible for any losses for the same.
- Please make sure you report at the start location as per the itinerary. No refunds would be entertained by Trikon. Consult your Trikon buddy in advance in case of any changes.
