Best Of Bhutan
Best Of Bhutan
From AUD 2730 per person 5 Days & 4 Nights
Right in the heart of the Himalayas there is a country known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon", a country that has lived a long life isolated from the rest of the world. This isolation has allowed Bhutan to retain the cultural and spiritual heritage of its centuries-old traditions, traditions that can be seen reflected in the religion, art and architecture that flood its golden peaks and deep valleys. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Thimphu: A unique city with a curious mixture of 21st century amenities and ancient traditions. Thimphu is the capital city of the Kingdom of Bhutan, the commercial and religious centre of the country and the location of the central government. Punakha: Punakha has been inextricably linked to momentous events in the history of Bhutan. It is also blessed with a temperate climate and a beautiful location in a valley at the junction of two rivers. Overlooking the river junction is Punakha Dzong, perhaps Bhutan's most majestic building. Paro: Paro sits in one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys and is home to many sacred sites and historic buildings. It is also the location of Bhutan’s only international airport and flights here offer spectacular views of the Himalayas. Inclusions
  • 3* Hotel accommodation with private facilities
  • Private car with driver
  • Meals as specified
  • Private English speaking tour guide
  • Entry fee and tickets
  • Sightseeing as specified
  • Assistance and transfers
  • Bhutan Visa Fees and Goverment royalaty (subjected to change)
Exclusions
  • Any international airfares
  • Any meals other than specified, drinks, laundry, mineral water, telephone calls, postage
  • Camera and Video entry charges at Monuments/Forts etc
  • Early check-in or late checkout
  • Meals other than specified in the what's included section
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Travel & medical insurance
Day 1: ARRIVAL PARO - THIMPHU

The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas, offering dazzling scenic views of some of the world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter Paro valley, you will sweep past forested hills with the silvery Paro Chu (Paro river) meandering down the valley below. Paro Dzong (fortress) and Ta Dzong (National Museum) on the hills above the town will be a fine sight.

Upon arrival in Paro, our tour executive will welcome you at the airport’s arrival lounge with a representative holding a signboard, and drive you to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu — an exciting blend of tradition and modernity.

On arrival, check in at your accommodation. Rest of the day free for relaxation. Overnight in Thimphu. Dinner included.

Day 2: THIMPHU

Early morning drive to “the fortress of the glorious religion”, Tashichho Dzong — a majestic fortress that serves as the seat of Bhutan’s government.

Visit the post office in town to see or buy a wondrous collection of Bhutanese stamps and postcards.

Afternoon: Tango Excursion: Enjoy a hike to Tango Monastery at the head of the valley. En route, stop at Pangri Zampa — currently home to a well-respected astrologer. From Dodena (a 45-minute drive from Thimphu), enjoy a one-hour uphill walk to Tango. Visit the monastery and the holy caves. Tango is the residence of the 7th reincarnate of the 4th Desi (Temporal Ruler) of Bhutan, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye.

After your descent, enjoy tea and snacks on the banks of the Thimphu River near the picturesque Cheri Zam (Cheri Bridge), one of the last remaining traditional suspension bridges in the Himalayas.

Return to hotel and spend the rest of the time at leisure. Overnight in Thimphu. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: THIMPHU - PUNAKHA (75 km - 3 hrs)

After an early breakfast, begin your scenic drive to Punakha. En route, stop at the Dochu La Pass — a beautiful mountain pass (altitude 3,140 m) adorned with fluttering prayer flags and 108 miniature chortens (stupas). On a clear day, enjoy awe-inspiring glimpses of the towering Himalayan peaks.

On arrival, check in at the hotel. Later, visit Simtokha Dzong and Punakha Dzong — strategically built between the Phochu (Male River) and the Mochu (Female River). It serves as the winter residence of the Je-Khenpo (religious leader of Bhutan). Overnight in Punakha. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: PUNAKHA - PARO (125 km - 4 hrs)

After breakfast, check out and travel to Paro. On arrival, check in at the hotel.

Visit Drugyel Dzong and then embark on a hike to one of Bhutan’s most venerated pilgrimage sites, Taktsang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest). According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave for three months, converting the Paro valley to Buddhism.

Resting at 900m above the valley floor, Taktsang is an architectural wonder. The spectacular four-hour roundtrip hike is sure to be one of your most overwhelming experiences.

Later, visit Ta Dzong (National Museum), originally a watchtower for Paro Dzong, now overlooking the Paro valley. Overnight in Paro. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: DEPART PARO

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Breakfast included.