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THIMPHU - WANGDI - PARO

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Detailed Day Wise Itinerary

DAY 01                  ARRIVAL AT PARO AIRPORT - THIMPHU

On arrival at Paro Airport and after completing your Visa // Permit formalities you will be received by our Bhutan representative who will assist you in boarding your vehicle for transfer to Thimphu (2320Mts / 7656Fts, 65 Kms / 01 to 02 Hrs), Thimphu is the capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style. On arrival in Thimphu, Check in to the hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight at Hotel.

(Mandatory while travelling to Bhutan forIndian Passport Holder: A) Personal presence. B) 04 Recent Color Photograph (as a stand by precaution for all travelers including child). C) Original Indian Passport OR Election Identity card ONLY for all passengers traveling to Bhutan. D) For minor - School / College identity card along with original Birth Certificate.  They must be accompanied by their parents with Election ID card / Valid Indian Passport. (Bona-fide letter from School or College are not valid documents for Bhutan Entry for minors.  E)  Indian national if flying to/from Bhutan,  to/from to any second country require six month valid passport only.

 F)OCI (Oversea Citizen of India) & PIO (Person of Indian Origin) passport are not considered as valid document in Bhutan, as Indian Citizen proof.  All NRI, OCI & PIO passport holder will be considered foreign nationals & will have to in USD RATE as fixed by the Bhutan Government. All foreign nationals tourists must obtain a visa clearance prior to travel to Bhutan. Foreign nationals are required to send the photo-page of their passport to us & we will apply for their visa. (FYI) the visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) once the full payment of your holiday (including USD $40 visa fee) has been wire transferred and received in the TCB bank account. At the point of entry foreign nationals  will have to show their  visa clearance letter, for the visa to  be stamped into their  passport.

 

DAY 02                 THIMPHU

After breakfasts go for Thimphu sightseeingcovering -Memorial Chorten- The Chorten was built in 1974 to honor the 3rd King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928-1972), is a prominent landmark in the city with its Golden Spires and Bells. In 2008, it underwent extensive renovation. It is popularly known as "the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan".

  Tashichho Dzong (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed)- Also known as Fortress of the Glorious Religion, Trachichho Dzong, Thimphu was initially built in 1641 and later rebuilt in its present form by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in 1965. The Dzong houses, Main Secretariat Building which houses the Throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.

Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point) -You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the Largest Statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley, Changangkha Lhakhang (Monastery) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) - This popular fortress like temple perched on a ridge above central Thimphu regularly hums with pilgrim activity. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet. Parents traditionally come here to get auspicious names for their newborns or blessings for their young children from the protector deity Tamdrin (to the left in the grilled inner sanctum, next to Chenresig). Don't leave without taking in the excellent view from the back Kora (Pilgrim path), with its lovely Black and Gold prayer wheels. Motithang Takin Preservation centre to see the rare Takin Which was declared by Royal Government of Bhutan as National Animal on 25th November 1985. Why Bhutan selected Takin as National Animal is associated with Bhutan Religious and Mythology, it was during the time Lama Drukpa Kuenley (1455 - 1529) the Divine Madman and Bhutan Favorite Saints known for his outrageous antic. One day his devotees were gathered to witness his magical power and they asked him to perform a miracle. However, the saint, in his usual unorthodox and outrageous way, demanded that he first be served a whole cow and a goat for lunch. Having devoured both and leaving only the bones, he stuck the Goat head on the bones of the Cow. To everyone amazement, upon a commanded uttered by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the animal came to life, arose and ran to the meadow and then began to graze. The animal came to be known as Dong Gyem Tsey and can still be seen grazing in the mountain meadows of the Kingdom. In these centre you can see Takin, Barking Deer & Sambar Deer. Something just to see takin one needs to walk around the enclosure. Then visit the newDrupthob Goemba / Zilukha Nunnery - Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichho Dzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital known as Zilukha Anim Dratsang, once belonged to the Drubthob (Realized one) Thang Thong Gyalpo often referred to as The King of the open field (In the early 15th century with his multiple talents he popularly became the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas). You may interact here with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism. 

National library (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays) - is a major scriptural repository and research facility dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich literary, cultural and religious heritage of Bhutan. The scripture and document collection held in our library and archives is a national treasure and a fundamental source for Bhutanese History, Religion, Medicine, Arts and Culture. Later visit the Indigenous hospitalwhere traditional art of healing is still practiced

,Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Art & Craft School) (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays & During Summer & Winter Vacations) - The art taught today in Bhutan was introduced by the Great Treasurer Discoverer Terton Pema Lingpa in the Fifteen century. These traditional Crafts represents hundreds of years of Knowledge and ability that has passed down the generation. Bhutan unique artistic traditions have played a vital role in mounding its distinct cultural heritage. This tradition is best reflected in the Zorig Chusum or Thirteen Crafts.           

Textiles Museum (Handicrafts Shops)(Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays) - A wide assortment of colourful, hand woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller crafts shops around the town. Then visit Zangthopelri Lhakhang (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) - The present structure was built in 1960s and although lacking the charm of many of the older temples, Zangthopelri still possesses some impressive murals and art treasures and is worthy of a visit. The site of the temple was a former battle ground, and the temple was constructed there in order to pacify energies.Back to the hotel. Overnightat Hotel.

DAY 03                 THIMPHU - WANGDI

After breakfast drive to Wangdi (Wangdiphodrang) (1350Mts / 4430Fts, 70 Kms / 03 to 4 Hrs). Wangdi is the last town on the highway before entering Central Bhutan. The drive is over Dochu La pass(3080Mts / 10102Fts) which is very scenic with fascinating view of mountains of Bhutan. Stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the Chorten, Mani wall, and Prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this Pass (Left to Right): Mt. Masagang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Tsendagang (6,960Mts / 22829Fts), Mt. Terigang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), Mt. Jejegangphugang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Kangphugang (7,170Mts / 23518Fts), Mt. Zongphugang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana - Finally Mt.Gangkar Puensum (7,497Mts / 24590Fts), the highest peak in Bhutan.

 visit Punakha Dzong (Which is closed in Winter months when the monk body are in Punakha. All visits to Punakha Dzong & Monastery are limited till Courtyard only. All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) - Built Strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu (Father) and Mo Chhu (Mother) rivers in 1637, by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan's history. Damaged by Four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by the present King. The Dzong is open for visitors during Punakha Festival and in summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu.

  Chimi Lhakhang (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed)-situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humor, songs and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings and due to this also known as Divine Madman. This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30 minute walk across field from the road to the temple. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning field. It then follows a tiny stream downhill to Yoaka and across more fields before making a short climb to Chimi Lhakhang. Overnight at the Hotel in Wangdi.

(In case guest are traveling to area other than Thimphu, Paro & Phuntsholing, a special (Pink) permit is required which is issued on the basis of the permit made at Phuntsholing / Paro. This special (Pink) permit is issued from Thimphu on a working day, from Monday to Friday. Travel consultant & Travelers, who are planning a Bhutan tour must avoid reaching Thimphu on Friday, Saturday & government holiday (Link given below above the signature).  Travelers are also advised to make photo copy for the paper permit issued at Paro or Phuntsholing and keep it in safe custody as you will not be allowed to leave the country without surrendering this paper permit in original)

DAY 04                  WANGDI - GANGTEY EXCURSION - WANGDI

Today the day start early for full day excursion to Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley (3000Mts / 9845fts , 85Kms / 3 to 4 Hrs One way ) The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast space, and extremely rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valley's are tightly enclosed. A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lie's the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. Phobjikha, at an altitude of 2900 m, falls under the district of Wangdiphodrang and lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white water). According to a local legend, the two rivers actually represent a snake and a boar. The two animals once raced each other with an agreement that if the snake (Nakay Chhu) won, Phobjikha valley would be able to grow rice, but if the boar won, then rice could never be cultivated in the area. The snake lost since it had to meander all the way during its journey. Rice cannot be cultivated in the valley even today. 

Black Necked Crane Information Centre (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays)-Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the black-necked crane information Centre has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The centre also offers display information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area. There is a small gift shop, which sells handicrafts produced by the local people.

  Gangtey Goempa(All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed)- Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain's Gangtey valley, Bhutan and also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the Monastery. Gangtey was founded by Pema Trinley, the grandson of Pema Lingpa, the famous Nyingmapa saint of Bhutan. In 1613, Pema Trinley establishes the monastery and became the first Gangtey Tulku. The religious traditions of Pema Lingpa still taught there. The second Tulku, Tenzin Legpa Dondrup (1645 to 1726), enhanced the size of Gangtey while keeping up good relations with Drukpas, and rebuilt the monastery in the form of a Dzong. Back to the hotel. Overnightat Hotel.

DAY 05                  WANGDI - PARO

After breakfast transfer to Paro(2134Mts /7000Fts, 135 Kms / 05 Hrs,). On arrival Paro, check in to the hotel. Afternoon free at leisure. Overnightat Hotel.

DAY 06                  PARO                     

After breakfast go for Paro Sightseeing covering Drukgyel Dzong - This Dzong has a delightful village nestling at its foot, was built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders. Historically and strategically this Dzong with stood all its glory and was featured in 1914 vide National Geographic magazine. The glory of Drukgyel Dzong remained even when it was destroyed by fire in 1951. On a clear day, one can see the commanding view of Mt Jhomolhari (7134Mts / 23400Fts) can be seen towering over the Dzong. The visit to Drukgyel Dzong ruins involves soft walking hence it is advice able that one goes with walking shoes. Dzong gives an excellent view of the foothills villages and its landscape. 

Then proceed to visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) (After September 2011 Earth quake, Ta Dzong (Paro Museum) had been closed and shifted to exhibition hall just above the museum. Now the present exhibition hall will be open throughout the week except on Weekends & Government holidays. All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed). - One time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dozng during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, since 1967 Ta Dzong is serving as the National Museum of the country. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious Thankha paintings and Bhutan's exquisite postage stamps. The museum circular shape augments its varied collection displayed over several floors.

  Rinpung Dzong (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed)- Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the First 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. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held once a year in the spring. Walk further down crossing the traditional bridge into Paro Town.

 Later visit Kyichu Lhakhang (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed)- It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to 7th century (the other is Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang). The Lhakhang complex is composed of two temples. The first temple was built by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, built the second temple in original pattern, this is a popular monastery for wedding blessing among our travellers. Back to the hotel. Overnightat Hotel.

DAY 07                  PARO - HAA VALLEY EXCURSION - PARO

Start the day early for a full day excursion to Haa via Chele-la pass (3800Mts / 12465Fts, 65 Kms / 02 to 03Hrs - One way) with packed or early breakfast. Drive for 4 Kms away at Bondey village the road to Haa diverts towards the right hand side and ascends towards the Chele-la pass starts. After driving through Blue Pine & Rhododendron Forest for 45 km, reach Chele-la pass (3988Mts / 13081Fts). From this point one can have a superb view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7134Mts / 23400Fts) & Mt. Jichu Drake (6989Mts / 22924Fts). This is a very good place to walk around for few minutes enjoying the view. Drive on to Haa, descending all the way for another 22 km (under an hour's drive), finally reaching Haa. The Haa Dzong is presently occupied by military, but the view from outside is stunning. After refreshment break one will visit the famous Monastery of Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) followed by visit to Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed). The Central Shrine in Lhakhang Nagpo is said to have no difference with that of Lhasa JOWO in Tibet. The construction of the Lakhang Karpo is believed to have been assisted by the locality. As a result the place came to be locally known as Hay meaning surprise which later became Haa due to the differences in interpretations and pronunciations of different people over time. The three giant hills looming over the fringes of Haa valley were called Me Rig Puen Sum especially after the incidence of the Lhakhang Karpo construction. Today the three hills are popularly known as Rig Sum Goenpa signifying three deities-Jambayang, Chana Dorji and Chenrizig. Later, other Buddhist saints like Guru Rinpoche and Machi Labdorn came to the Jungney Drag in Haa and blessed the locality. The principal religion followed is Drukpa Kagyupa. After the arrival of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the chief guardian deity of Haa became, AP Chundu. One can also visit Wangchulo Dzong(All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) - The construction of the Wangchulo Dzong was commissioned by Gongzim Ugyen Dorji, the Grandfather of the Royal Grandmother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck. The Dzong structure resembles the Wangdicholing palace in Bumthang that was the seat of the 1st and 2nd Kings as well. Depending on the weather, Road conditions and time Haa excursion could be either taken from Chele-la Pass or from Chozum side one can also opt for going from Chele-la Pass and returning from Chuzom side or vice versa. Evening you drive back to Paro. Overnight at the hotel.

(In case guest are traveling to area other than Thimphu, Paro & Phuntsholing, a special (Pink) permit is required which is issued on the basis of the permit made at Phuntsholing / Paro. This special (Pink) permit is issued from Thimphu on a working day, from Monday to Friday. Travel consultant & Travelers, who are planning a Bhutan tour must avoid reaching Thimphu on Friday, Saturday & government holiday (Link given below above the signature).  Travelers are also advised to make photo copy for the paper permit issued at Paro or Phuntsholing and keep it in safe custody as you will not be allowed to leave the country without surrendering this paper permit in original)

OR

PARO - FULL DAY HIKE TO TAKTSANG LHAKHANG (TIGER'S NEST)

Start the day early for a day hike to Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger's Nest) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) with packed or early breakfast - The hike which is all the way uphill takes about 2½ hrs to 3Hrs one way through pine forests. The monastery clings to a huge granite cliff 900 meters from the Paro valley. It is one of the most famous of Bhutan's monasteries. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called Tiger's Nest. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour. Guest can also opt for Ponies on direct payment basis but for guest who are unable to make it to the top even reaching to the cafeteria area which in almost half way is very fulfilling. Back to the Paro hotel. Afternoon / Evening free at leisure or one can also go for shopping in the market. Overnight at Hotel.

DAY 08                  PARO - ONWARD CONNECTION

After breakfast transfer to Paro Airport for taking onwards connection.

Inclusions

As suggested by many that Bhutan tour should always be with guide hence all our Bhutan Packages are with Guides from the time guest lands in Bhutan till the time they leave the Geographical boundary of Bhutan.

We have based the packages on the best hotels of Bhutan, who know the taste of an Indian tourist. Vegetarian people have to know that these hotels serve both Vegetarian & Non Vegetarian food. The serve will be basic, freshly prepared & healthy. No region specific food will be available.

  • Accommodation as per the itinerary on Bed & Breakfast plan on Twin / Triple Sharing Basis.

  • Transfer & Sightseeing as per the itinerary by Non AC Car / Van / Bus. (NOT AT DISPOSAL)

  • Services of an Escort cum Guide will be as per the itinerary for Bhutan Portion only.

Exclusions

  • Government Service Tax as applicable (as on date 01/04/2012 it is 3.09%)

  • During High Season (MAR, APR, MAY, SEP, OCT, NOV), most of the hotel in Bhutan are full with charter for Inbound Movement. You are requested to send the booking request for mentioned period well in advance. At such time Bhutan Hotel may Charge High Season surcharge which will be mentioned with the confirmation sent over the mail.

  • Cost for supplementary service, optional Tours, Up-gradation Charges, Sightseeing entrance fees.

  • Cost for Airfare, Train fare, Insurance Premiums, Rafting Charges.

  • Cost for service provided on a personal request.

  • Cost for personal expenses such as laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, incidentals, porter charges, tips etc.

  • Cost for any other service not mentioned under the Cost Includes head.

  • Difference in cost arising due to change in Taxes by the Government which will have to be collected directly ON ARRIVAL.

  • Difference in cost arising due to change in Fuel price (Calculation based on Petrol INR 70 per liter & Diesel INR 57 per liter)

  • Difference in cost arising due to extra usage of vehicle, other than scheduled & mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Difference in cost arising due to mishaps, political unrest, natural calamities like - landslides, road blockage, etc. In such case extra will have to be paid on the spot by the guest directly.

Accommodation

CHILD POLICY

Children above 10+ years will be charged 100% as per EPSR

Children of 5+ to 10 sharing parent's room with bed / rollaway or mattress will be charged as per CWB

Children of 5+ to 10 sharing parent's room without bed / rollaway or mattress  will be charged as per CNB

Children below 5 years Complimentary without bed.

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