21154 – Mr.  H.A. x 18 // Bhutan

1st Day – (Wednesday 7th June) : NJP Railway Station/IXB Airport to Phuentsholing – Pick up

Approx. Distance: 157 Km • Est. Travel Time: 5 hours

Meet & Greet on arrival at NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport and transfer to Phuentsholing (961 ft.) – The Gateway of Bhutan by Road from India. It is a thriving commercial centre on the northern edge of the Indian Plains. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or walk around the Phuentsholing town. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.

Day 2. Phuentsholing – Thimphu:

Driving Distance – 150 Km. | Driving time – 5 Hr | Altitude of Thimphu – 2350 m.

After breakfast, complete the immigration formalities and transfer to Thimphu (7,710 ft.) the capital city of Bhutan. On the way, stop at places to view scenery and for Photography. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or take a leisure walk around the Thimphu City. Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 3. Thimphu Sightseeing:

After breakfast visit the Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Dordenma). Located at a short drive from Thimphu City Centre, Kuenselphodrang offers a good overview of the Thimphu valley. The largest statue of Buddha in the country sits here which houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues. Then visit the National Memorial Chorten built in the memory of the Third King of Bhutan and visit the Folk Heritage Museum. Afternoon visit Sangaygang View Point. The Lookout point offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire Thimphu. On the way back visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Changangkha Lhakhang. This is a popular Buddhist temple and is especially visited by parents to receive blessings for their new-born. Its interiors are full of murals that depict different stories. In the evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, first built in 1216 A.D. by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. The Dzong is the seat of the National Government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 4. Thimphu – Punakha/ Wangdue:

Distance: 76 Km, Driving time: 1.5 – 2 Hr, Altitude of Punakha: 1310 m

After breakfast you are driven to Punakha. On the way stop at

Ø After breakfast drive to Punakha/Wangdue (4298 ft.), on the way Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (10334 ft.) to view the higher Himalayas. The pass is approximately 25 kms away from Thimphu and is the highest point between the Thimphu and Punakha/Wangdue Valley. Another attraction is the 108 chorten/stupas (Druk Wangyel Chortens) built close to each other surrounded by numerous colorful prayer flags. On arrival at Punakha, check in at the hotel. Afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong – built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. After that take a short and easy hike to visit the Chhimi Lhakhang – The Temple, also known as “The Temple of Fertility” was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”. Evening free for leisure. Overnight stay at Punakha / Wangdue.

Day 5. Punakha – Paro: 

Driving Distance: 135 km, Driving Time: 4-5 Hr., Altitude of Paro: 2280 m

After breakfast drive to Paro (7,483 ft.). On the way stop at Lamperi to visit Royal Botanical Park. This park is a treat for nature lovers as the 36 species of exotic rhododendron and approximately 220 types of charming birds will make your day unforgettable. On arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Ta Dzong – National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Then visit the Rinpung Dzong – Meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels”. The dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro. Rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 6. Paro Sightseeing and Hike to Taktsang:

After breakfast, drive to the base of the abode of gods and monks, the Taktshang Monastery. The monastery is a 2 -3 hours hike uphill from here. One feels truly blessed reaching the monastery. The primary Lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rinpoche’s Meditation cave in 1684 which clings to the edge of a sheer Rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress which gives its name “Taktshang” meaning Tiger’s nest. Afternoon (If time permits), visit the Drukgyel Dzong. Built in 1647, the dzong was destroyed by accidental fire and left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate. Explore the ramparts and experience an unforgettable view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 m). On the way back, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 7. Paro – Phuentsholing

Driving Distance – 150 Km. | Driving time – 5 Hr | Altitude of Thimphu – 2280 m.
After breakfast check out from hotel and transfer to Phuentsholing. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or walk around the Phuentsholing town. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing

8th Day – (Wednesday 14th June) : Phuentsholing to NJP Railway Station/IXB Airport – Drop

Approx Distance: 170 Km • Est. Travel Time: 5 hours

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport for your onward journey

Tour Cost & Hotel Details 
Tour Cost : INR 64,500 /- per person * 18 Adults = INR 11,61,000 /- for 18 Adults +5% TCS

Inclusions

• Accommodation in the mentioned hotels (Base category twin rooms, unless specified)
• Meal Plan (Only Set Menu): AP
• Bagdogra – Phunsholing – Bagdogra : 3 Non A/C – Innova / Xylo / Similar as per itinerary & timing only.
• Other transfers in Bhutan by: Non A/C 1 – Coaster + 1 – Tucson / Santa fee / Breza / Creta / Similar as per itinerary & timing only.
• Service of  certified English speaking guide (Within Bhutan)
• Govt SDF @ 1200 per person per night and other taxes applicable

Excludes

• Air Ticket / Train fare. 

• The cost does not include anything not mentioned in the inclusion
• Entry Fees for Museums and Monuments is not included in the cost and is payable directly

•  Personal Expenses such as Laundry, telephone calls, tips & gratuity, mineral water, soft & hard drinks, rafting, rock climbing, paragliding, joy ride (Toy Train), porterage.

• Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary.

• Entrance Fees & Guide charges.

• Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc (to be borne by the client, should be is directly payable on the spot).

• Any increase in taxes or fuel price, leading to increase in cost on surface transportation & land arrangements, which may come into effect prior to departure.

• Room Heater Charges

• Insurance.

• Anything which is not included in the inclusion.

Airfare & Flight Details 

Indore – Bagdogra – Indore
INR 25,500 /- PP

Delhi – Bagdogra – Delhi
INR 20,500 /- PP

Entry Charges Extra
* Entry fees for the below mentioned points is INR 1000 per person per entry, except for Taktshang which is INR 2000 per person per entry

Rates and Tour Operations are subject to change with the change in  Government Regulations.

Entry to Taktshang, Tashichhodzong, Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Kyichu Lhakhang, Rinpung Dzong, Punakha Dzong and Chhimi Lhakhang shall not be allowed to Tourists on the following days: 

• 15th of 1st Month (Chotrul Duchen)
• 10th day of 4th Month (Zhabdrung Kuchoe)  
• 15th day of 4th Month (Saga Dawa Duchen/ Lord Buddha Parinirvana)
• 4th Day of 6th Month (Chokor Duchen/ First Sermon of Lord Buddha)
• 22nd day of 9th Month (Lha Bab duchen/ Descending day of Lord Buddha)
• 10th day of 5th Month (Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche)

In case the above mentioned sights are mentioned in your itinerary and the day falls on any of the above days OR any of the sightseeing places are closed to tourists for any reason, we shall do other sightseeings in its place. The Above days are as per Bhutanese calendar

Please Note :-

• Early check in would be subject to availability, for guaranteed early check in we need to book the room one day prior
• The given Rates are as per 18 Passengers travelling together, rates will vary with increase or decrease of persons.
• Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances, etc.  (To be borne by the client, this is directly payable on the spot).
•  We need Guest Name & Arrival / Departure details to process your booking.
• The above mentioned hotels will be confirmed as per the room availability. Otherwise we will confirm similar category hotel
• Itinerary might be re-arrange as per hotel availability at the time of booking
• Rooms provided would be the base category of each hotels if not specified
• Meals offered is assuming the guest would be having it in the same hotels where they stay & Any meals arranged outdoor OR any other restaurant en-route may attract additional charges
• Meals would be served in a pre-designated area as per the hotel’s choice / convenience

1st Day – (Wednesday 7th June) : NJP Railway Station/IXB Airport to Phuentsholing – Pick up

Approx Distance: 157 Km • Est. Travel Time: 5 hours

Meet & Greet on arrival at NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport and transfer to Phuentsholing (961 ft.) – The Gateway of Bhutan by Road from India. It is a thriving commercial centre on the northern edge of the Indian Plains. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or walk around the Phuentsholing town. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing.

Day 2. Phuentsholing – Thimphu:

Driving Distance – 150 Km. | Driving time – 5 Hr | Altitude of Thimphu – 2350 m.

After breakfast, complete the immigration formalities and transfer to Thimphu (7,710 ft.) the capital city of Bhutan. On the way, stop at places to view scenery and for Photography. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or take a leisure walk around the Thimphu City. Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 3. Thimphu Sightseeing:

After breakfast visit the Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Dordenma). Located at a short drive from Thimphu City Centre, Kuenselphodrang offers a good overview of the Thimphu valley. The largest statue of Buddha in the country sits here which houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues. Then visit the National Memorial Chorten built in the memory of the Third King of Bhutan and visit the Folk Heritage Museum. Afternoon visit Sangaygang View Point. The Lookout point offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire Thimphu. On the way back visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Changangkha Lhakhang. This is a popular Buddhist temple and is especially visited by parents to receive blessings for their new-born. Its interiors are full of murals that depict different stories. In the evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, first built in 1216 A.D. by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. The Dzong is the seat of the National Government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 4. Thimphu – Punakha/ Wangdue:

Distance: 76 Km, Driving time: 1.5 – 2 Hr, Altitude of Punakha: 1310 m

After breakfast you are driven to Punakha. On the way stop at

Ø After breakfast drive to Punakha/Wangdue (4298 ft.), on the way Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (10334 ft.) to view the higher Himalayas. The pass is approximately 25 kms away from Thimphu and is the highest point between the Thimphu and Punakha/Wangdue Valley. Another attraction is the 108 chorten/stupas (Druk Wangyel Chortens) built close to each other surrounded by numerous colorful prayer flags. On arrival at Punakha, check in at the hotel. Afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong – built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. After that take a short and easy hike to visit the Chhimi Lhakhang – The Temple, also known as “The Temple of Fertility” was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”. Evening free for leisure. Overnight stay at Punakha / Wangdue.

Day 5. Punakha – Paro: 

Driving Distance: 135 km, Driving Time: 4-5 Hr., Altitude of Paro: 2280 m

After breakfast drive to Paro (7,483 ft.). On the way stop at Lamperi to visit Royal Botanical Park. This park is a treat for nature lovers as the 36 species of exotic rhododendron and approximately 220 types of charming birds will make your day unforgettable. On arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Ta Dzong – National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Then visit the Rinpung Dzong – Meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels”. The dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro. Rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 6. Paro Sightseeing and Hike to Taktsang:

After breakfast, drive to the base of the abode of gods and monks, the Taktshang Monastery. The monastery is a 2 -3 hours hike uphill from here. One feels truly blessed reaching the monastery. The primary Lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rinpoche’s Meditation cave in 1684 which clings to the edge of a sheer Rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress which gives its name “Taktshang” meaning Tiger’s nest. Afternoon (If time permits), visit the Drukgyel Dzong. Built in 1647, the dzong was destroyed by accidental fire and left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate. Explore the ramparts and experience an unforgettable view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 m). On the way back, visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 7. Paro – Phuentsholing

Driving Distance – 150 Km. | Driving time – 5 Hr | Altitude of Thimphu – 2280 m.
After breakfast check out from hotel and transfer to Phuentsholing. On arrival check in at the hotel. In the evening, you may choose to relax at the hotel or walk around the Phuentsholing town. Overnight stay at Phuentsholing

8th Day – (Wednesday 14th June) : Phuentsholing to NJP Railway Station/IXB Airport – Drop

Approx Distance: 170 Km • Est. Travel Time: 5 hours

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to NJP Railway Station / IXB Airport for your onward journey

Tour Cost & Hotel Details 
Tour Cost : INR 64,500 /- per person * 18 Adults = INR 11,61,000 /- for 18 Adults +5% TCS

Inclusions

• Accommodation in the mentioned hotels (Base category twin rooms, unless specified)
• Meal Plan (Only Set Menu): AP
• Bagdogra – Phunsholing – Bagdogra : 3 Non A/C – Innova / Xylo / Similar as per itinerary & timing only.
• Other transfers in Bhutan by: Non A/C 1 – Coaster + 1 – Tucson / Santa fee / Breza / Creta / Similar as per itinerary & timing only.
• Service of  certified English speaking guide (Within Bhutan)
• Govt SDF @ 1200 per person per night and other taxes applicable

Excludes

• Air Ticket / Train fare. 

• The cost does not include anything not mentioned in the inclusion
• Entry Fees for Museums and Monuments is not included in the cost and is payable directly

•  Personal Expenses such as Laundry, telephone calls, tips & gratuity, mineral water, soft & hard drinks, rafting, rock climbing, paragliding, joy ride (Toy Train), porterage.

• Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary.

• Entrance Fees & Guide charges.

• Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc (to be borne by the client, should be is directly payable on the spot).

• Any increase in taxes or fuel price, leading to increase in cost on surface transportation & land arrangements, which may come into effect prior to departure.

• Room Heater Charges

• Insurance.

• Anything which is not included in the inclusion.

Airfare & Flight Details 

Indore – Bagdogra – Indore
INR 25,500 /- PP

Delhi – Bagdogra – Delhi
INR 20,500 /- PP

Entry Charges Extra
* Entry fees for the below mentioned points is INR 1000 per person per entry, except for Taktshang which is INR 2000 per person per entry

Rates and Tour Operations are subject to change with the change in  Government Regulations.

Entry to Taktshang, Tashichhodzong, Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Kyichu Lhakhang, Rinpung Dzong, Punakha Dzong and Chhimi Lhakhang shall not be allowed to Tourists on the following days: 

• 15th of 1st Month (Chotrul Duchen)
• 10th day of 4th Month (Zhabdrung Kuchoe)  
• 15th day of 4th Month (Saga Dawa Duchen/ Lord Buddha Parinirvana)
• 4th Day of 6th Month (Chokor Duchen/ First Sermon of Lord Buddha)
• 22nd day of 9th Month (Lha Bab duchen/ Descending day of Lord Buddha)
• 10th day of 5th Month (Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche)

In case the above mentioned sights are mentioned in your itinerary and the day falls on any of the above days OR any of the sightseeing places are closed to tourists for any reason, we shall do other sightseeings in its place. The Above days are as per Bhutanese calendar

Please Note :-

• Early check in would be subject to availability, for guaranteed early check in we need to book the room one day prior
• The given Rates are as per 18 Passengers travelling together, rates will vary with increase or decrease of persons.
• Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances, etc.  (To be borne by the client, this is directly payable on the spot).
•  We need Guest Name & Arrival / Departure details to process your booking.
• The above mentioned hotels will be confirmed as per the room availability. Otherwise we will confirm similar category hotel
• Itinerary might be re-arrange as per hotel availability at the time of booking
• Rooms provided would be the base category of each hotels if not specified
• Meals offered is assuming the guest would be having it in the same hotels where they stay & Any meals arranged outdoor OR any other restaurant en-route may attract additional charges
• Meals would be served in a pre-designated area as per the hotel’s choice / convenience