Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension

8 Days

Overview

Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension is a holiday package in which you get to spend a duration of seven nights and eight days in the luxury of Bhutan doing various activities congenial to what holidays are meant to be where you are taken to different places of interest of culture, tradition and religion native of Bhutan.

Bhutan, in which, you could do this Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension, is a country in the laps of the Himalayan Mountains. It is a country, which lies surrounded by India to the west, south and east and the autonomous region of Tibet to the north. It is a landlocked country, which has evolved culturally, traditionally and religiously independent of external forces from the time it was there. Because of this, it has its own blend of doing things which are showcased in this Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension just as in any of the Bhutan Tours that you might undertake. Another reason why holidaying in Bhutan is a must and a should do a thing, is because the country has been doing things in accordance with the principles enshrined in its particular way of following Buddhism. This has made it the only country on earth that has a negative carbon rating, in which, it sequences all of the carbon it produces and others from its neighboring countries as well. Over sixty percent of the country is covered in forest and the remaining is used in sustainable farming means. In addition to this, it uses the philosophy of gross domestic happiness in contrast to a gross domestic product, which other countries use to measure economic growth. So much so, all the historical artifacts, monuments of the past and what is built at present is so well integrated into the natural landscape, that Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension would make you feel as if you are in a part of the world which is it’s own. Totally, different from what you might find elsewhere in guided tour holidays.

Holidays are made in Heaven, but this Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension is made in the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan. The first part is getting into the country, which you do fly in by the National Carrier of the country, through some astonishing terrain which the Himalayas have to offer. There are snow-capped mountains and peaks to the north to view from the windows and lush green hills to the south of them with villages, valleys having fast flowing rivers and some cut so deep to form gorges. Then the rivers form the glaciers to the north of the High Himalayan mountains are all a part of what you see when flown in and out, at the end. Then the holiday, itself, within the country is a showcase of all it has coming from its long association with Buddhism, right from the Dzong (fortress made in different structural forms) made in their own unique ways to help in the defense of the country but basically serve as administrative blocks presently, Memorial Chortens made for different reasons to honour and dedicated to achievements of people and past kings, Monasteries made in various places so well integrated into the landscape making it seem a part of it, shrines and temples where spiritual people are honoured for what they had given society, however crazy they might have seemed. All of them made and formed with the architecture so uniquely which we can call Bhutanese. Then there are the valleys with different kinds of forest along with their flora and fauna meant especially for it and their form of agricultural practices using natural means and crafts that are indigenously made. All of this turns out to be a holiday not only to be done but also remembered for time to come.

What is special about this holiday?
This holiday will leave you with a lasting memory of a world different in every aspect of what you get while on it. Right from your living conditions, where you are kept in three-star hotels and above, the sights which you see while on holiday here and the condition in which you are treated. All meals are provided according to your taste. You are also taken from destination while on the holiday in a private vehicle along with a guide to explain and tell all about it.

Outline Itinerary for Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension
Day 01 : Arrive Paro (2250m) – Thimphu (2350m)
Day 02 : Thimphu – Punakha (1,310m) via Dochula La (3140m)
Day 03 : Punakha – Gangtey (2,900m)
Day 04 : Gangtey – Trongsa (2,300m) via Pele la pass (3,420m)
Day 05 : Trongsa – Wangdue (1,310)
Day 06 : Wangdue – Haa Valley (3,050m) – Paro (2,250m)
Day 07 : Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,120m)
Day 08 : Paro depart

Trip Highlights

  • Witness panoramic view of the world’s greatest Himalayas while flying in/out from Paro.
  • Explore Paro exploding with colors and tradition.
  • Enjoy guided sightseeing around the tiny capital Thimphu.
  • Hike towards the Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’- one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan.
  • Visit Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful monastery in Bhutan.
  • Visit the grand Trongsa Dzong
  • Explore alluring Gangtey Monastery & Trongsa monastery- the largest Dzong fortress in Bhutan.
  • Discover Bhutanese culture, tradition and lifestyles of the Bhutanese people.

Itinerary

After arriving by aboard the National Carrier in a wonderful flight at Paro, you are welcomed by the guide and staff of your tour. You are then driven to Thimphu after lunch in a one and half hour drive. On the way, we stop off for a short hike to the Tamchog Monastery that is a privately owned temple by the descendants of a famous Tibetan bridge-builder, Thangthong Gaylpo. Then we continue onto Thimphu.
In Thimphu, we visit Buddha point that has a larger statue of Buddha and also give a fabulous view of the city. Then it is onto Takin Compound, which has the national animal of Bhutan, a strange animal that looks like a bee stung moose. Then it is onto Tashi Choe Dzong, which was first built in 1641 and then rebuilt in 1960s by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Later we go to the Folk Heritage Museum in a 300 year old house and onto the Centenary Farmers Market. We stay the night at a hotel.

Completing an early breafast, we drive to Punakha in a three hour drive. When we reach Dochu La Pass at 3140 metres, we stop for a fabulous view of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains to the north. We then head onto the highly cultivated valley of Punakha, but once agian we stop to vist the temple of the divine madman, Drukpa Kuenley known as Chimmi Lhakhang. Later in the day, we go to Punakha Dzong at the junction of Pho and Mo-chu Rivers. This one of the best dzongs in the country. We stay the night at a hotel.

Today, we go to Wangdue by vehicle. Crossing Wangdue, the road turn tortuous passing Oak and Rhododendron woods going down into the valley of Phobjikha, being one of the nicest in Bhutan. It has some of Bhutan's few glaciers. We then enjoy an hour and half nature walk from the monastery to the floor of the valley. We stay the night at a hotel.

We join the east-west highway to Pele La Pass at 3420 metres which are marked with prayer flags. From here we can see the peaks of Jumolhari, Kangbum and Jichu Drake. Here we now enter the eastern part of the country. The road now goes down via Kgebji, Sephu and Chendebji Villages being followed by a large Chorten at Chendebji. We pass many farms on the way where the road narrows and widens. Finally turning into the River Valley of Mangde. Here we visit the Trongsa Dzong which is the most impressive in Bhutan which was built by Shabdrung in 1644. We stay the night at a hotel.

Completing breakfast, we drive to Wangdue in five hours. In Wangdue, we explore the beauty of the place. We stay the night at a hotel.

Completing breakfast, we drive to the Haa Valley to visit the Wangchucklo Dzong which dates back to the 1915 and then the Black and White Temples known as Lhakhang Nakpo and Lhakhang Karpo. We then drive onto Paro and stay the night at a hotel.

Today, we taken an excursion to the Tiger's Nest known as Taktsang Monastery which an outstanding monastery in Bhutan. It is against a cliff at nearly 3000 metres. It is believed that the Guru Rinpoche came here to meditate for three months flying on the back of a tigress. Then we visit Kyichu Lhakang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and have the opportunity to visit local farm houses. We stay the night at a hotel.

After breakfast, you will be taken to the airport and bid farewell by the staff of your tour for you flight onto your next destination.
At Breakfree Adventures, we hope that you had a fabulous holiday on this tour and on part we take your security and comfort of high importance.

Cost

What is Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off by private vehicle.
  • 3-star accommodation throughout your Bhutan stay (4 & 5 stars may require an additional premium).
  • Bhutan visa fee – including all necessary processing.
  • Route Permit.
  • Three meals per day - Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner (only breakfast on last day)
  • A licensed English Speaking Bhutanese tour guide.
  • All land transportation by a private vehicle.
  • Sightseeing as per itinerary.
  • Monuments entrance fees wherever applicable.
  • Bottled drinking water.
  • All internal taxes and charges.
  • A sustainable development fee of $65. (This sustainable development fee goes towards free education, free healthcare, poverty alleviation, along with the building of infrastructure.)

What is Not Included

  • Airfare & Travel Insurance.
  • Expenses of personal nature, Tips & Gratuities.
  • Expenses occurred due to unavoidable events i.e. road wrecks, flight delays etc.

FAQs

Where is Bhutan located in the world?

Bhutan is located in the eastern Himalayas and a landlocked country. Bhutan is surrounded by three sides by India with The Tibetan autonomous region of China in the north. The three sides that connect Bhutan with India are Arunachal Pradesh in the east, Assam and West Bengal in the south and Sikkim in the West. Bhutan is ruled by a king and only one Buddhist nation in the world.

When is the best time to visit Bhutan

The best time to visit Bhutan is spring (March-May) and Autumn/fall (September-November). It will be clear weather and great climate in spring with Varieties of flowers and plants in bloom. Autumn has mild weather with cold mornings and evenings. Summer (June-August) and winter (December to February) also draw tourists to Bhutan. Winter season (December to February) is less crowded and it may snow with temperature level going down below freezing point.

Do you need a visa to enter Bhutan?

Visa to enter Bhutan is required for any international travelers. Visa needs to be applied through a licensed Bhutanese travel agent of one of it’s international partners. One can’t individually apply for Bhutan visa. But Indian nationals including Bangladesh, Maldives citizens won’t require a visa.

How much is Bhutan visa fee?

Bhutan visa fee is US$40 per person which must be paid including your entire tour cost before your Bhutan arrival. Afterward, a visa clearance letter is sent to you and the actual visa will be stamped on your passports only upon arrival in Bhutan.

How can i get to Bhutan?

You can either get to Bhutan by flight or overland. Only two airlines fly to Bhutan, Druk Air- the national flag carrier and Bhutan Airlines – private company. They also fly from only certain cities like Kathmandu, Delhi, Bangkok, Singapore, Dhaka. Via overland is from Indian border only – Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Is travelling solo in Bhutan possible?

Travelling solo in Bhutan is possible but one must book/come through a tour operator that means you can’t individually travel or apply for visa like in other countries. You can either join a group or have your private tour.

What is Bhutan travel cost per day?

Bhutan travel cost per day is $200 per night (low season) and $250 per night (high season) per person. It includes 3 star accommodations, costs for food, an experienced guide and transportation (with driver). This cost also includes $65 per day royalty that goes towards free education, free healthcare and poverty alleviation.

Is there a limit on the number of tourists entering Bhutan each year?

There is no limit on the number of tourists entering Bhutan each year. The Bhutanese government has adopted a strict policy of “High Value, Low Impact Tourism” to protect it’s culture, traditions and natural environment. This policy is aimed to attract discerning tourists who will respect Bhutan’s unique culture and values of the Bhutanese people.

What currency do they use in Bhutan?

Currency is used in Bhutan is called Ngultrum. Its value is tied up to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender. Ngultrum is divided into 100 smaller units called Chetrum (Ch). The latest series of Ngultrum has the denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. Coins are available in denominations of Ch1, Ch5, Ch10, Ch25, Ch50 and Nu1.

What is the food of Bhutan?

Bhutanese cuisine specialty is its spiciness. Nearly every dish has chilies and most Bhutanese won’t enjoy a meal without the spiciness. Rice is the main part of Bhutanese meal which is accompanied by one or two side dishes of meat or vegetables. Most often pork, beef or chicken is eaten. You can also find many restaurants with a great selection of western and Indian foods.

I am a vegetarian, is it okay?

No worries. Most of the hotels will serve good vegetarian dishes though there are very limited vegetables in operation.

Can I stay at the farmhouse or home-stay?

Yes, you can and farmhouse or home-stay is available and you need to inform your travel agent during booking your tour.

Can I have the game of archery?

Surely, you can which your friendly guides shall be happy to assist you with.

Are there luxury 5 star hotels in Bhutan?

There are many luxury hotels in Bhutan at places like Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang. They are world-class 5 star luxury hotels with state of the art facilities. Such hotels include Taj Tashi, Amen Kora, Uma Paro, Uma Punakha, Le-meridian etc. Plus there are also several 4 star hotels which are equally great.

How is road transportation in Bhutan?

Transportation in Bhutan is getting better with rapid growth in it’s infrastructures. Earlier it was difficult with no proper means of transportation and only mule/horse are available or traveling has to be on foot. But modern Bhutan is now connected with highways and Different luxurious cars, SUVs, buses and coaster buses are available for tourists.

How is shopping in Bhutan?

One can find many things for shopping in Bhutan which include handicrafts, fabrics, textiles etc. Major Bhutanese cities have many shopping stores. These goods are manufactured in Bhutan showcasing it’s unique culture and traditions. Items on sale will be handwoven fabrics, carved masks, woven baskets, wooden bowls, handmade paper, postage stamps, finely crafted metal objects, thangkha paintings, bamboo bowls, handmade papers, prayer beads, singing bowls incense, prayer flags, ornaments etc.

What are major festivals in Bhutan?

Festivals in Bhutan are called ‘Tschechu’ which is attended by locals and tourists alike. Major festivals of Bhutan include Paro Tschechu, Thimphu Tschechu, Punakha Tschechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Black-necked crane festival among many festivals celebrated round the year in Bhutan.

What are the best places to visit in Bhutan?

Most popular and visited Places to Visit in Bhutan are Paro – where Bhutan’s only international airport is, Thimphu – the tiny capital, Punakha – the old capital as well as Gangtey – where the beautiful Phobijikha Valley is located then further up to Bumthang. Hike to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ located outskirts of Paro town is the major highlight of any Bhutan travel.

What’s the communication system in Bhutan?

Basic communication facilities are available in most of the major towns and cities. These includes telephone, faxes and internet services. Wi-fi and internet are available at most of the big hotels. Bhutanese sim card can also be bought. Bhutan postal service sends or receives any parcels from outside. DHL or FedEx is also there in the capital city.

What is the packing list for Bhutan trip?

Packing list for Bhutan trip depends upon your time of travel. In October, November, December, January and February very warm clothes are required. It’s warm during April, May, June, July, August and September so carrying light cloths is recommended. Rain gears are highly recommended during the rainy season (June-August). Since Bhutan is a religious country so shorts, skirts, tight clothing, sun caps need to be avoided at monasteries or temples. For any trekking programs, your tour operator shall provide the necessary trek equipment as per the trekking grade.

Trip Information

Bhutan Visa Information:
The citizen of Bangladesh, Maldives and India do not require VISA to enter Bhutan. People from other countries except from Bangladesh, Maldives and India need a VISA permit while traveling to Bhutan. The VISA processing for Bhutan requires a readable color copy of passport via email that has at least six month of validity from the date of exit from Bhutan. The file Scan Copy should be forwarded to via email in JPEG or PDF format. The passport number and picture of the applicant should be visible in the e-document.

The application should be processed at least 10 days prior to the date of entry to Bhutan. The tourism council of Bhutan then issues a VISA clearance letter and fax or email it to the local travel agent. Please note that the VISA service is not offered in Bhutan, travelers have to buy full service package from the local tour operator. Travelers traveling by air are required to produce a printed VISA clearance copy at the time of check-in for Druk Air flight. People traveling by land to enter Bhutan via Phuentshoking or Samdrup Jonkhar are required to produce a VISA clearance letter at the immigration center. The actual VISA is stamped in your passport on your arrival in Bhutan.

Flights to Bhutan:
There are several cities that have direct flights to Bhutan. There are two airlines Druk air and Bhutan airlines running the flights to Bhutan. Druk air is the national carrier of Bhutan. With its fleet of Airbuses A319-115 and ATR 42 the airlines fly from different Asian countries to the Paro international airport, Paro (PBH); which is only the international airport in Bhutan. There are daily direct flights from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu to Paro International Airport.

The flights from Indian cities to Paro International Airport with the airport name and their codes are listed below:
Bagdogra Airport, Bagdogra (IXB)
Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (DEL)
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (CCU)
Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai (BOM)

Likewise, there flights from other countries with the codes are as follows:
Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand (BKK)
Shahjalal International Airport, Bangladesh (DAC)
Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore (SIN)

Note: The flight schedule and timings are subject to change. If you want to know more about the flight schedules and tour to Bhutan please feel free to contact us. We can also help to find you the cheapest fares available.

Best time to visit Bhutan:
The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan lies in south Asia between China and India. Climate and weather vary according to the altitude, season and place of visit. Bhutan is open all year around for the visitors but it is better to make the travel arrangements as per your preference and nature of visit.

The ideal time to visit Bhutan is spring (March-May) and Autumn/fall (September-November). These are considered to be the best time to visit Bhutan to get the maximum adventure and trouble free experience. Summer and winter also have their own specialties that could draw the attention of tourists during these seasons. During the spring the weather mostly remains clear and climate is fantastic. It is also the best time to visit for the nature lovers to experience the mystifying beauty of nature. Varieties of flowers and plants bloom in this season that makes your adventure an exotic one. The route opens for Jomolhari and Druk Path treks from mid-April to May.

Summer (June-August) in the other hand could get tricky at times due to the early arrival of monsoon. The month of June would be great for traveling if the monsoon is pushed further. Usually monsoon is in full swing by early July. Travelers who would strive to get some trekking experience on muddy trail while witnessing swollen rivers, green forests and flourishing paddy field could choose late summer to plan their adventure. The view of open clear blue sky after the rain is something that strikes you with its mystifying beauty.

Fall (September-November) is another favorable and crowded season after spring. The weather gets mild despite cold mornings and evenings. Tourists from all around the world thong to Bhutan during this season to witness Black-Necked-Crane festival. The month of October has its own significance and the valley turn into a shade of gold as the farmers prepare to harvest their rice crops during this month.

Winter season (December to February) is not that crowded with tourists in comparison to other seasons. Planning your adventure during the winter could be a better idea if you want to avoid the hustle-bustle of the peak season. During the winter Bhutan may see some snow fall. The temperature level goes down (even below freezing point) during some winter days.

VACCINATION FOR BHUTAN:
No vaccinations are presently required However, the following vaccinations are recommended:
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver. The disease is distinctly unpleasant, with profound nausea, loss of appetite, and weakness.
Tetanus: Tetanus bacteria can infect small wounds and cause a fatal infection.
Typhoid Fever: Typhoid fever is caused by infection with Salmonella typhi bacteria, passed in human feces and acquired by eating contaminated food or water.

WEATHER IN BHUTAN:
Bhutan lies in South Asia between China and India in the Himalayas, weather in Bhutan depends upon the altitude. In the northern parts of the country where mountains rise up to 7,000m, weather conditions are similar to arctic. Southwards, closer to India, the weather is hot and humid in the summer and cool in winter. The monsoon rains are usually heavy. Winters can be a good time to visit the lower parts, but then the highest areas are freezing.

The best times to visit Bhutan are spring (March-May) and autumn (late September – November) when the weather is warm, dry and sunny but always throw in a couple of warm clothes into your travelling gear when you travel to Bhutan regardless of the season.

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING:
Layering Clothing
Bring your clothes according to the season and region of your travel. Based on your activity and the weather, you can make quick adjustments, by putting on more clothing if it is cold or taking off layers as it warms up. In the summer time, days can be quite warm, especially in the lowlands of Punakha and Phuentsholing, light cotton clothing is recommended for day time. But in most of the tourist and trekking areas, light woolen clothes for evenings and heavy woollens / down jackets for winter are necessary. A waterproof windbreaker is important for trekking and outdoor activities.
Comfortable and Sturdy shoes.
You have a lot of opportunity to walk around in Bhutan, you will be glad you wore sturdy shoes that keep your feet comfortable. Good shoes will let you explore the rural and allow you to have a long day walk. Bring sandals or slip ons to take off easily when entering temples.
Long pants / skirts
Wear particularly conservative clothing in the towns, women should wear long pants or long skirts, men should wear long pants and shorts are not appropriate for anyone. In the dzongs and temples, the legs and arms must be covered, and even threequarter-length capri pants are not acceptable for women.
Rain gear
Be prepared for occasional shower. A folding umbrella is a good idea to bring with.
Hat, Sunglass, Sunscreen & lip protection.
The sun can be scorching in Bhutan. Be sure to apply sunscreen in the morning and throughout your day.

Other requirements:
A quality sleeping bag.
Waterproof gators.
A headlamp torch and a normal torch. (Including spare batteries.)
Binoculars and Camera.
Small day pack.
Water bottle
Towel
Small medical kit that includes aspirin, motion sickness tablets, diamox.(The guide carries a larger Medical kit but please bring own travel medications)
Antiseptic hand gel for disinfecting hands without water.
Mini-flashlight

DIFFERENT CURRENCY ACCEPTED BY BHUTAN BANK:
Credit cards are accepted only in major international hotels and high-end shops in Bhutan.

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Bhutan Tour with Trongsa Extension

Trip Facts

  • Bhutan
  • 07 Nights/08 Days
  • March to May & September to November
  • Private vehicles & Flights
  • Taktsang Monastery (3,120m)
  • Paro, Bhutan
  • Paro, Bhutan
  • Cultural & Nature Tour
  • Taktsang Monastery 'Tiger's Nest', Paro Ringpung Dzong. Thimphu City, Dochula pass, Punakha Dzong, Trongsa Dzong
  • Government approved 3 stars and Above

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