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Bhutan – Known as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’. nestled among the peaks of the mighty Himalaya, the tiny kingdom of Bhutan has long since been known as the last Shangri-La, shrouded in centuries of mystery. A journey to Bhutan offers a fascinating insight into the rich and colourful Buddhist culture Bhutan exudes. Where time has stood still in a land of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes of astounding, untouched beauty. The tour encompasses much of what Bhutan portrays.
You have the opportunity to embrace many aspects of Bhutanese culture on this all-encompassing tour. You will be guided to many of the extraordinary sites that go to make up this fascinating and unique country. You will have a chance to travel through the beautiful countryside which Bhutan is blessed with. There is also time to visit more remote villages for an insight into local life and customs little-changed over the centuries. No hard walking is involved on this tour but there are opportunities for some gentle walks to enjoy the wonderful scenery.
- Fantastic Trans Himalayan flight
- Visit The Tigers nest monastery
- Drive through lush pristine valleys
- Visit Typical villages
- Tour ancient fortresses
- Splendid views of the Himalayas.
On leaving Kathmandu enjoy amazing views of the Himalayas as you fly to Paro Bhutans tiny airport. At the airport, we will be greeted by a representative from our Bhutanese agents who will escort you to your hotel. After lunch in the afternoon we visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning ‘fortress of the heap of jewels’.From here we move on to Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country and then on to the Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), which was built in 1646 to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders during the 1600s. On a clear day there are good views of Mount Chomolhari, Bhutan’s second-highest mountain, at 7,314meters. Overnight Hotel Paro.
Today is a lovely day as we drive through the Paro Valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers where many colourful chortens are found at the confluence. We continue continue on to Punakha crossing Dochu La Pass, where on a clear day there are spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the pass we drive downhill through rhododendron, fir and hemlock forests stopping to visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. Overnight Hotel Punakha.
We spend the day on a tour of Punakha to begin we visit Punakha Dzong was built between 1637-1638 and is the second oldest and the second largest dzong in Bhutan. Later drive to a beautiful hillock to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. The chorten contains elaborate paintings dedicated to the old sect of Buddhism. We also visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup nunnery which is situated in a splendid location on a mountain ridge where there are spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.Overnight Hotel in Punakha.
We say goodbye to Punakha in the morning on our way to Trongsa passing through Wangdi province on the way where we visit the Wangdi Dzong (fortress), which happens to be the only dzong in Bhutan with its original roof. From here we continue our drive over Pele La pass at 3300m, the pass is part of the Black mountain range that divides the country into east and west. On the way we may take a short break to visit the remote village of Rujubji. It is a long drive today but we are more than rewarded with the outstanding beauty around us. Overnight Hotel in Trongsa.
Early in the morning we make our way to Bumthang through beautiful lush valleys and forestsed hills. We stop at a yathra (textile weaving) factory, to watch some of the weavers at their looms. Here yathras are designed and made with patterns unique to Bumthang,. Overnight Hotel Bumthang.
After Breakfast we spend a day on a hike to Ngang Lhakhang temple. We follow up the crystal clear Bumthang River from Thangbi Gompa to the small region of Ngang Yul (meaning Swan Land). The temple is located some 100meters above the valley. It is believed to have been built by Lama Namkha Samdrup in the 15th century. After touring the area we hike back to Bumthang to spend the night. Overnight Hotel Bumthang
We begin our hike to Petseling Monastery after breakfast. We need to hike up a steep trail that provides some fantastic panoramic views of the central Bumthang Valley. After visiting the monastery, we cross the ridge a little further beyond to catch the scenic views of the nearby mountains as well as the monastery. Later, we hike back to town and end today’s hike at Tamshing Lhakhang temple. Overnight Hotel Bumthang.
We leave Bumthang for the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. The valley is the winter habitat and protected sanctuary for the endangered black-necked cranes. On arrival we visit the Gangtey Gompa, a 15th century monastery which provides an excellent view of the valley. Overnight Hotel Phobjikha Valley.
Today we explore the beautiful Phobjikha valley arguably the most beautiful place in Bhutan. We visit several villages in the valleyto truly get a flavor of local Bhutanese life. The valley is also rich in faunal biodiversity and has, apart from the globally threatened black-necked cranes, thirteen other globally threatened species as habitants. Overnight Hotel Phobjikha Valley.
Wangdiphodrang is a large village noted for its many traditional Bhutanese houses and other nearby villages known for their slate and stone carvings. We visit Wangdiphodrang Dzong located at the confluence of the Mo and Tang Rivers. This large dzong is dominantly striking with excellent views across the valley. Overnight Hotel Wangdiphodrang.
We leave for Thimphu today Bhutan’s capital early in the morning. On reaching Thimphu, we check-in to our hotel before embarking on a tour of a few of the cities landmarks including Changangkha Monastery, the majestic Tashichhodzong and the giant Buddha statue. Overnight Hotel Thimphu.
In the morning, we visit Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), we also visit the nunnery temple. Other landmarks include The National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Bhutanese traditional painting school, the Folk Heritage Museum and the traditional paper factory. Some of the landmarks are closed on the weekend (Saturdays and Sundays). During the weekend, we use any extra time by exploring the Weekend Market . Overnight Hotel Thimphu
After breakfast, we either hike for 4 to 5 hours to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery or you can stop at a refreshment café to admire the Monastery after an hour or so.Taktsang is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3,180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where the Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. After having explored the monastery, we hike down to the valley floor. Overnight in Paro.
Today we say goodbye to this tiny Himalayan Kingdom and her friendly people for the flight back to Kathmandu. Druk Air generally departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Soon after breakfast, we will be taken to the airport in the morning for final departure. On arrival in Kathmandu a member of Himalaya Heart will be there at the airport to greet you and transfer you to your Kathmandu Hotel.
What is Bhutan known for?
Bhutan has a perfect environment, almost no pollution, and a living culture where festivals steal the heart of world travelers with its breathtaking scenery, stunning architecture and welcoming atmosphere. This hidden treasure is often called “The Last Shangri-La” and in this region it seems that religion and nature have come together in harmony to work their magic upon the face of the land. Also known as The Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan is a deeply religious region, and is the only Buddhist kingdom in the world. For adventurers looking to experience the Himalayas firsthand, Bhutan would be the best destination.
When is the best time to visit Bhutan?
Every season has its own charm. But, the most popular times to visit Bhutan are autumn and spring seasons which fall in the months from September -November and March- May respectively. The weather is warmer and skies are clearer during these times and many of the dramatic festivals fall during these periods.
Do I need a visa for Bhutan? How can I obtain visa for Bhutan?
A Bhutan Visa is essential for every foreigner who is planning to enter Bhutan. The visa has to be processed by local tour operators such as Himalay Heart. No foreign mission or embassy abroad grants tourist visas. For the visa, a passport is required which must be valid for at least 6 months after you leave Bhutan. Druk Air allows boarding only if it has got your visa clearance from the Bhutan Government.
What documents will you provide that I have to take with me to Bhutan?
A Visa confirmation letter: We will organize your visa for Bhutan prior to the start of your trip. For the visa procedure, you have to send us two passport size color photographs and a color copy of your passport.
Itinerary: Please take a copy of your tour itinerary with you.
How to enter Bhutan?
By air: Foreigners can visit Bhutan only through a Tour Company. The best way to enter Bhutan is by Druk Air. There are also online tickets available for Druk Air nowadays. You can check the tickets with Druk Air yourself online at By land: There are two overland entry/exit points. One is from the Indian state of West Bengal into Phuntsholing in southwest Bhutan. Four hours drive from Phuntsholing will take you to Bagdogra in the state of West Bengal (India) which is the nearest airport from Phuntsholings. The drive from Phuntsholing to Thimphu takes six hours. The other point is Samdrup Jongkhar in the southeast, 110 km from Guwahati, India. An Inner Line Permit to enter Assam will also be required to enter/exit through Guwahati. Tashigang is six hours’ drive from Samdrup Jongkhar.
What is the weight limit for luggage on Druk Air?
The baggage allowance on Druk Air is 20 kg in economic class and 30 kg in business class. An extra 5 kg allowed for storing in the overhead baggage bin or under the passenger’s seat is also allowed.
What is included in tour packages?
The tour package includes all meals, tea & snacks, government approved A & B category hotels on twin sharing basis, airport pick up and drop, ground transport in the comfortable private vehicle, experienced English speaking guides and local staff, all city tours with permits and entrance fees for museums and monuments, all government taxes, Bhutan Visa fee.
Can I have a private tour?
Yes we can arrange you a private tour, you will find us flexible and in the vast majority of cases this is not a problem. Please feel free to customize your tour and schedule. We will help you plan your itinerary based on your interest and time frame and we will manage accordingly.
What kind of vehicle does your company use?
We use comfortable, well maintained 4WD cars and jeeps and Hiace.
How far in advance do I have to book for your tour?
The earlier you book your trip, the better selection of available departure dates you will have.
What type of Vaccinations are required before arriving to Bhutan?
Currently, there is no vaccination required for entry into Bhutan. However it is generally recommended that your tetanus, diphtheria and polio boosters be up to date. Malaria is prevalent in some rural areas of southern Bhutan. Most of our tours runs through western, central and eastern Bhutan. Thus, you might need to consult your doctor about taking anti-malarial pills only if your trip goes through southern parts of Bhutan. For further information, visit the corporate website of the US Centers for Disease Control
Can I use my credit cards in Bhutan?
Credit cards are not accepted in Bhutan generally. But, there are some handicraft shops which accept credit cards while purchasing goods.
Are there ATM s counters in Bhutan?
An ATM facility has recently been opened in Bhutan, but it is available for local people only for the time being.
What is the accommodation like?
Hotels in Bhutan are approved and classified by the government as grade A, B and C. These government approved hotels are equivalent to 3-4 star hotels located throughout the globe. Western Bhutan (Thimpu, Paro,Wangdue and Punakha) have the best hotels but as you head to the eastern and central regions, the quality decreases a little . All the hotels/lodges/guest houses in the western Bhutan have pretty good electrical heating systems. While the hotels in the central and eastern part of Bhutan have wood-stoves for heating.
What is the electricity supply in Bhutan and what plugs are used?
240 volts AC – Flat round 2-pin plugs are most common and a universal adapter is an important travel item. Power cuts are quite frequent in central and eastern Bhutan while western Bhutan has stable power supply.
Are there internet facilities for foreign travelers?
Bhutan’s main and only Internet Service Provider (ISP) is Druknet, owned by Bhutan Telecom. It provides a dial-up service, at a reasonable cost. There are several internet cafes and communication centers in the Thimphu and other various part of the country. E-mail and Internet services are also offered by hotels.
Can we smoke in Bhutan?
The sale of tobacco products is banned throughout the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. However, smoking in Bhutan is not banned but acting without an import receipt issued by the Department of Revenue and Customs is banned. Therefore, if you wish to smoke in Bhutan you can carry cigarettes up to 200 pieces with you but a duty has to be paid for them and also you can only smoke only in private zones like your room or residence. if you smoke in prohibited areas like public places and offices you may even have to go jail for 3months .
