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Signature Bhutan: Thimphu, Gangtey, Paro & More

Duration
8 Days
Prices:
On request

DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Spend time getting to know this fascinating kingdom on the slopes of the Himalayas with its stunning natural beauty and pristine environment where culture and tradition are unspoiled.


Sandwiched between India, China and Nepal, Bhutan is a unique country and was only opened up to the world at large in the 1970’s so some mystery still clings to it. It is approximately the size of Switzerland with a population somewhere between 650,000 and 1.4 million inhabitants. In other words, no one seems to be exactly sure. Buddhism permeates Bhutan as can be seen through its monasteries, ubiquitous monks and the Tibetan-style culture which is everywhere. However, it also has some stunning scenery from snow-clad peaks (it is located in the central Himalayas) to wooded valleys, arable grasslands and jungles.  The visitor will also marvel at the beautiful and exotic flora and fauna. 

On arrival at Paro, travel to the capital of and largest city in Bhutan, Thimpu. Sightseeing here includes the Chorten Memorial, the most visible landmark in the city with its white wooden structure, golden spires and bells built in 1974 to honor the King. Later drive through magnificent mountainous scenery to Wangdi with its ancient Dzongs (fortresses). There will be visits to the ancient picturesque Gangtey Gompa monastery and the Khamsun Yulley Namgyal monastery perched high on a hilltop.

Returning to Thimpu via Punakha, ancient capital of Bhutan, there will be time to see the Punakha Dzong, winter home of the Bhutanese monks.

Returning to Thimpu, once again, visit the National Medicine Institute, the National Library and the Handicrafts Emporium which houses textiles, paintings, sculptures, wood carving, sword making and jewellery.

Travelling to Paro, sightseeing includes the National Museum of Bhutan and the fortress/monastery of Paro Dzong built in the 10th Century.

A day’s excursion takes you to Takshang also known as the Tiger’s Nest, a highly sacred hermitage located on the face of a 1000 metre/3250 feet high cliff. It is said that the father of Bhutanese Buddhism arrived here on the back of a tiger.


 

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Duration
8 Days
Prices:
On request

Itinerary View Trip Map

Day 1

Paro to Thimphu

Welcome to the Kingdom of Bhutan! You will be met at the Paro airport by your guide and transferred to Thimphu. The remainder of the day is free to explore this lively town.

Meal Plan Lunch and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Le Meridien Thimphu

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Location View map
  • starstarstarstarstar

    Le Meridien Thimphu



    Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Meridien Thimphu offers 78 spacious guest rooms and suites in a culturally-inspired yet contemporary style. The hotel is within an easy walk of the city's myriad attractions. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, spa …

    Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Meridien Thimphu offers 78 spacious guest rooms and suites in a culturally-inspired yet contemporary style. The hotel is within an easy walk of the city's myriad attractions. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, spa and fitness centre.

    Facilities

    • Business Centre
    • Concierge
    • Fitness Centre
    • Indoor heated pool
    • Spa

    More Details

Day 2

Thimphu to Punakha/Wangdue

A small bustling city in the heart of the Himalayas, Thimphu's charm comes not only from its wealth of museums and places of historic interest, but also from its strong national character. It was once known as the only capital city in the world without traffic lights! This morning, visit the Weekend Market (Fridays to Sundays) and the Memorial Chorten, a stupa completed in 1974 as a monument to peace. It houses a number of religious paintings and tantric statues. Continue to Kuensel Phodrang hill to see the bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha and to enjoy unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley. After lunch, set out for Punakha/Wangdue (2 to 3 hours), crossing the high mountains of Dochu La Pass in the Himalayas.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Dhensa Boutique Resort

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Location View map
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    Dhensa Boutique Resort



    This boutique resort, set in Bhutan's Punakha Valley, invites guests to retreat and revive their senses as they enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The resort features 24 suites, set in six cottages all with private balconies and complimentary Wifi.

    This boutique resort, set in Bhutan's Punakha Valley, invites guests to retreat and revive their senses as they enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The resort features 24 suites, set in six cottages all with private balconies and complimentary Wifi.

    More Details

Day 3

Punakha/Wangdue to Gangtey

Today explore the beautiful Phobjikha/Gangteng valley, where black necked cranes reside during the winter. Visit the crane information centre which is also equipped with a high-power telescope for viewing the cranes. Afterwards, visit the Gangtey Goenpa Monastery and its surrounding village of meditators.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Gangtey Goenpa Lodge

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Location View map
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    Gangtey Goenpa Lodge



    This beautiful lodge built in traditional Bhutanese style offers spectacular views of Gangtey valley.

    This beautiful lodge built in traditional Bhutanese style offers spectacular views of Gangtey valley.

    Facilities

    • 24 hour Front desk
    • Laundry
    • Mini Library
    • Restaurant
    • Spa and Fitness

    More Details

Day 4

Gangtey to Thimphu

After breakfast, drive towards the Punakha Valley and visit the Punakha Dzong, a fortress built in 1637 at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Damaged over the centuries by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored in recent years. The Dzong is placed strategically at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Later, continue onwards to Thimphu and check in to your hotel.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Le Meridien Thimphu

More Info

Location View map
  • starstarstarstarstar

    Le Meridien Thimphu



    Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Meridien Thimphu offers 78 spacious guest rooms and suites in a culturally-inspired yet contemporary style. The hotel is within an easy walk of the city's myriad attractions. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, spa …

    Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Meridien Thimphu offers 78 spacious guest rooms and suites in a culturally-inspired yet contemporary style. The hotel is within an easy walk of the city's myriad attractions. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, spa and fitness centre.

    Facilities

    • Business Centre
    • Concierge
    • Fitness Centre
    • Indoor heated pool
    • Spa

    More Details

Day 5

Thimphu

Today's sightseeing begins with a visit to the institute for Zorig Chusum ('Painting School'), where a six-year training course is given in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Next, visit the Royal Textile Academy, a modern museum in the heart of the city. There's also a weaving school attached to the museum where students are trained in weaving, yarn dyeing, fashion design and merchandising. Finally, make a stop at a traditional handmade paper factory. The paper here is made from the bark of the black Daphne tree and you can witness the process from start to finish. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore on your own.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6

Thimphu to Paro

Today, drive to the small town of Paro (1 hour), home to the national museum and the Paro Dzong. You will also visit the 7th-century Kichu Temple, then stop in at a farmhouse to share a cup of butter tea a local family.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa

More Info

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    Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa


    Commanding one of the most pristine locations in northern Paro valley, The Naksel hotel is a new eco-friendly and community based hotel. The hotel assembles a feel of harmony with nature and the pampering of all the modern luxury. Naksel Hotel and Spa is built …

    Commanding one of the most pristine locations in northern Paro valley, The Naksel hotel is a new eco-friendly and community based hotel. The hotel assembles a feel of harmony with nature and the pampering of all the modern luxury.

    Naksel Hotel and Spa is built in Dzong like structure and has a complete sense of true Bhutanese hospitality, the distinct earth rammed walls in the backdrop of alluring natural forest is a treat for nature lovers, further complimented by attentive and resourceful service staff.

    Facilities

    • Bar
    • Conference Facilities
    • Restaurant
    • Spa

    More Details

Day 7

Tiger's Nest

This morning, depart for the spectacular Takshang Monastery ('Tiger's Nest'), which clings to a sheer cliff above the Paro Valley. One of the most venerated sacred sites of the Himalayan world, the buildings enshrine a cave where the great saint Guru Rinpoche meditated. Legend says that he flew here from Tibet on the back of a tigress. Enjoy a four-hour hike here, then return to the town of Paro.

Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8

Depart Paro

This morning, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Meal Plan Breakfast

Other Information

DEPARTURES:

Daily

PRICE INCLUDES:

  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers
  • Private transfers and overland travel as per itinerary
  • 3 nights deluxe accommodations in Thimphu
  • 1 nights deluxe accommodations in Punakha
  • 1 night deluxe accommodations in Gangtey
  • 2 nights deluxe accommodations in Paro
  • Private-guided touring including entrance fees as per itinerary with English-speaking guide
  • Meals as specified
  • Bhutan Visa Fee
  • Bhutan Government Tourism Fee
  • Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 7 lunches, 7 dinners

PRICE EXCLUDES:

  • Travel insurance
  • International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

TB TRAILBLPAR21SG: BIDD 2
23 May 2022
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