About This Tour
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. Famous for its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and commitment to Gross National Happiness, this mystical country offers a unique travel experience. If you're planning a trip, knowing the best time to visit bhutan is essential to making the most of your journey.
Bhutan, small landlocked country nestled in eastern Himalayas, is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and commitment to Gross National Happiness.
Geography: Bhutan's geography is diverse, encompassing towering Himalayan peaks, deep valleys, dense forests and fast-flowing rivers. The country's elevation ranges from subtropical plains in the south to snow-capped mountains in the north, including peaks over 7,000 meters (23,000 feet) high. The strategic location of Bhutan in the eastern Himalayas contributes to its unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
History: Bhutan has rich history that dates back to ancient times. It has never been colonized, maintaining its independence throughout history. The Wangchuck dynasty has ruled Bhutan since 1907 when Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned as the first hereditary king. Prior to that, Bhutan was ruled by religious leaders and regional chieftains. The country transitioned to a constitutional monarchy in 2008.
Culture and Tradition: Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in Buddhist principles and traditions. The influence of Buddhism can be seen in various aspects of life, including art, architecture, festivals and daily rituals. Bhutanese architecture is characterized by dzongs, monasteries and traditional houses adorned with intricate woodwork and paintings.
Tourism: Bhutan's tourism policy is designed to ensure sustainable tourism that respects the country's culture, environment, and traditions. The government regulates tourism through a "high value, low volume" approach, limiting the number of tourists and requiring them to book through licensed tour operators. This policy helps preserve Bhutan's unique identity while providing economic benefits to local communities.
For travelers seeking a quieter experience with fewer tourists, winter (December to February) can be the best time to visit bhutan, offering serene landscapes and the chance to witness rare black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley. The cool weather and peaceful surroundings make it a magical season to explore the kingdom.
No matter when you decide to travel, understanding the best time to visit bhutan will ensure your adventure is unforgettable. Start planning your trip today!
These are just a few aspects that contribute to the unique character of Bhutan, a country that continues to enchant and inspire visitors from around the world.
ACCOMMODATION Based On 4 Star: | |
THIMPHU | TASHI YID WONG or similar |
PUNAKHA | RKPO GREEN RESORT or similar |
PARO | KAACHI GRAND or similar |
Highlights
What’s Included
- Return Economy Class Airfare
- 02 Nights accommodation in Phuentsholing
- 02 Nights accommodation in Thimphu
- 01 Night accommodation in Punakha / Wangdue
- Meet and Greet Representation at the Airport
- All Airport to hotel & hotel to Airport transfers with transfers
- All sightseeing as mentioned in the Itinerary
- Meals as mentioned in the Itinerary
- Visa Fees
- Travel Insurance
- 5% GST + 5% TCS + Remittance Charges
- Any Porterage, Tips, Mineral Water, Laundry, Telephone or any other expense personal in nature.
- Surcharge If Applicable
- Any increase in Airfare, Visa fees, Airport taxes, Govt Taxes, Fuel Surcharges and any applicability of new taxes from Govt
- Anything specifically not mentioned in the ‘tour price includes’ column
Tour Plan
MUMBAI - BAGDOGRA - PHUENTSHOLING
Assemble at Mumbai Airport. After check in procedures board the flight departing to Bagdogra. Arrive Bagdogra Airport. After Baggage Collection drive to Phuentsholing through the Indian plains. Arrive Phuentsholing & be greeted by guide. Check in hotel. Evening, free time to walk around Phuentsholing town visiting Zangtopelri Lhakhang in the town Centre or simply relax. Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Meal: Dinner
PHUENTSHOLING - THIMPHU
(Kharbandi Goemba)
Check out & drive to Thimphu. En-route visit Kharbandi Goemba. Travel from Phuentsholing to Thimphu shall bring you across diverse flora and fauna, beautiful landscapes and other elements of nature such as waterfalls. Shall also see how the plains become small Foothills and then the big Himalayan slopes. Arrive Thimphu - The only capital city in world without traffic lights. Check in hotel. Overnight in Thimpu.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
THIMPHU
(City Tour of Thimphu)
Proceed for City Tour of Thimphu visiting Kuenselphodrang (Buddha Dordenma): This massive statue of Buddha Shakyamuni is located atop Kuenselphodrang Nature Park which stands at a height of 51.5 meters (169 feet), making it one of largest Buddha statues in the world. Statue is made of bronze and gilded in gold, with thousands of smaller Buddha statues housed inside. Ascend to the base of statue for panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and surrounding mountains. The site is not only a religious landmark but also symbol of Bhutan's commitment to peace and happiness. Visit National Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is often regarded as father of modern Bhutan. Chorten is a prominent example of Bhutanese architecture, with its whitewashed walls, golden spires and intricate carvings. Locals frequent chorten for prayer and meditation, walking clockwise around its perimeter while spinning prayer wheels. It's especially lively in the mornings and evenings when people come to circumambulate and offer prayers. Chorten is believed to radiate positive energy and is considered a spiritual center for the city's residents. Visit Folk Heritage Museum: Located in traditional Bhutanese farmhouse, museum offers insight into country's rural life and cultural heritage. Explore various rooms displaying traditional household items, tools and artifacts used in daily life. There are demonstrations of traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery and wood carving, allowing to witness these skills firsthand. Museum's garden showcases indigenous plants and herbs used in Bhutanese traditional medicine. It's an excellent place to learn about Bhutanese culture and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality. Visit Takin Preserve Centre: Dedicated to preservation and conservation of Bhutan's national animal, Takin a unique and rare mammal with a fascinating legend surrounding its creation by legendary Buddhist saint, Drukpa Kunley. Visiting the preserve one can observe Takins in their natural habitat, learning about their behavior, habitat and conservation efforts. Visit Changangkha Lhakhang: This ancient temple is one of the oldest religious structures in Thimphu, dating back to 12th century. It is perched on a ridge above Thimphu, offering panoramic views of valley below. Changangkha Lhakhang is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, Buddhist deity of compassion and is a sacred site for Bhutanese parents who come to receive blessings for their newborns. Temple's architecture features traditional Bhutanese design elements, with colorful murals, intricate wood carvings and sacred relics. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of temple and witness rituals and prayers conducted by monks. Visit Tashichho Dzong is a majestic fortress-monastery located on the banks of Wang Chhu River. It serves as seat of Bhutanese government, housing throne room, offices of the king, and various government ministries. Dzong is also an important religious site, hosting several temples and shrines dedicated to Buddhist deities. Its architecture is an impressive example of traditional Bhutanese design, with whitewashed walls, golden roofs and intricately carved wooden windows and doors. Explore dzong's courtyards, temples and assembly halls, although certain areas may be restricted due to government activities. Evening visit Sangaygang View Point: Situated on ridge overlooking Thimphu Valley, Sangaygang offers stunning panoramic views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and soak in the natural beauty of Bhutan's landscape. Prayer flags flutter in breeze, adding to the picturesque setting and spiritual ambiance of the viewpoint. Overnight in Thimphu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
THIMPHU - PUNAKHA / WANGDUE (78 Kms / 2.5 hrs approx.)
(Dochu-La-Pass)
Check out & embark on a scenic drive from Thimphu to Punakha / Wangdue, nestled at 4298 feet above sea level. Along the way, take a captivating pause at Dochu-La-Pass, situated at an impressive altitude of 10,334 feet. This vantage point treats to breath-taking vistas of the towering Himalayas, an awe-inspiring sight to behold. Spanning approximately 25 kilometers from Thimphu, this pass stands as highest juncture between Thimphu and Punakha / Wangdue Valleys. Adding to allure of the journey are 108 chortens / stupas, collectively known as Druk Wangyel Chortens. Positioned in close proximity to one another, these sacred structures are adorned with vibrant prayer flags, creating a mesmerizing display against backdrop of pristine mountain landscape. Arrive Punakha & check in hotel. Later proceed to visit Punakha Dzong (Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong) - One of the most majestic and significant dzongs in Bhutan, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (father) and Mo Chhu (mother) rivers, Punakha Dzong served as the former capital of Bhutan. Built in 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, unifier of Bhutan, dzong is an architectural masterpiece with towering whitewashed walls, golden roofs and intricate woodwork. Punakha Dzong is not only a fortress but also houses sacred relics and artifacts of Bhutanese Buddhism. It is also winter residence of central monk body and Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan. Visit Chhimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), Chhimi Lhakhang is a renowned Buddhist monastery located near the village of Sopsokha. Temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint known as "Divine Madman" for his unorthodox teachings and eccentric behaviour. Chhimi Lhakhang is famous for its fertility blessings and couples from all over Bhutan and beyond visit temple to receive blessings for conception and childbirth. Monastery is adorned with colourful murals and phallus symbols, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Also enjoy the tranquil surroundings and scenic views of countryside. Overnight in Punakha / Wangdue.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
PARO
(Royal Botanical Park, Tamchog Lhakhang, Rimpung Dong, Ta Dzong)
Check out & transfer to Paro. Visit Royal Botanical Park, Lamperi, also known as Rhododendron Garden is first Botanical Garden of Bhutan & famous for 46 species of rhododendrons. Tamchog Lhakhang, built by Thangthong Gyalpo in 15th Century, also known as iron bridge Builder. Walk at suspension iron chain bridge, to feel the soothing breeze and river below is a great experience. Arrive Paro & visit Rimpung Dong, also known as Fortress of heap of jewels, built during time of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646. Ta Dzong, an ancient watch tower overlooking Rimpung Dzong built in 1951 now converted into national museum. Later check in hotel. Evening free for leisure activities such as Archery experience, National Dress wearing experience or shopping around Paro Town. Overnight in Paro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
PARO
(Chele-La-Pass)
Enjoy scenic drive through picturesque valleys, winding mountain roads and lush forests as ascending towards Chele-La-Pass highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering panoramic views of surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Jhomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake. Take some time to explore Chele-La-Pass, soak in breath-taking vistas and capture memorable photographs of the mountain scenery. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and serene ambiance of this high-altitude location before beginning hike down to Kila Goemba. Start hike from Chele-La-Pass towards Kila Goemba, following trail that descends through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and an opportunity to immerse yourself in Bhutan's natural beauty. Upon reaching Kila Goemba, explore monastery complex and its surroundings. Engage with the resident monks, learn about monastery's history and religious significance, and take in tranquil atmosphere of this secluded retreat. Back to Paro. Overnight in Paro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
PARO - PHUENTSHOLING
Check out & explore Paro Town for a while or free time at your own. Later drive to Phuentsholing. Stop at places for photography and sightseeing. On arrival check in hotel. Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
PHUENTSHOLING - BAGDOGRA - DEPARTURE
Check out & transfer to Bagdogra Airport. After 4 hrs journey arrive Bagdogra Airport & clear all check in procedures. Board the flight departing to your destination. Let’s stay in touch with each other through email, phone, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, etc. and meet again on yet another memorable tour.
Meal: Breakfast
Additional Information
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Passport should be valid for at least 6 months prior to the arrival date to avoid any problems.
- Cost stated may vary depending on availability of hotel accommodations and services at the time of reservation.
- Please check the latest updates about Covid-19 at https://covid19.who.int/region/emro/country/eg
- Check-in time is 1430 hrs and check out time is 1030 hrs. Early check-in or a late checkout is not guaranteed and is only on request.
- Any unutilized entrances / sightseeing is non-refundable, however if any entrance is canceled on account of weather, that refund can be adjusted against next booking. No remittances towards any refund will be done.
- Cost stated may change, due to Currency Exchange rate fluctuations, revision in fuel prices or govt. levies / duties, without notice.
CANCELLATION:
Our company deeply regrets of the cancellation of the tour, however, there are several suitable reasons which might come in the way of the cancellation. It is requested to report us about the cancellation in written and it would be effectual the day we receive request. The following cancellation charges would apply.
Cancellation received no of days prior to departure | Cancellation applicable on Tour Price (Per Person) |
0 - 5 Days | 100 % |
6 - 15 Days | 85 % |
30 - 16 Days | 75 % |
31 - 45 Days | 65 % |
46 - 60 Days | 55 % |
61 - 90 Days | 30 % |
PAYMENT DETAILS :
- Payments can be made by cash / cheque or NEFT transfer . the cheque should favour “ Anjali Travel and tours.
- For NEFT transfers , please find below Bank details –
- Beneficiary name : -Anjali Travel & Tours
- Bank name - ICICI BANK
- BRANCH -VILEPARLE (E)-ACC NO - 021105002246 (FOR CHEQUE DEP )
- BRANCH -ANDHERI (W) ACC NO-001105024261 (IFC CODE 0000044 ) ( FOR CASH DEP)