A Bhutan Cultural Jaunt

Day 1: Arrive Paro by Druk Air, transfer to Thimphu (55 Km, 1:30 Hours)

Our Paro flight on a clear blue sky day is one of those fantastic mountain flights of a natural kind. One can see Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and other peaks in Bhutan such as Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tsering Ghang. The first most welcome thing about Bhutan will be cool, clean fresh air as you step out of the aircraft. On arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan, the road leads through the Paro valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers at Chuzom (confluence). Later in the day take an exploratory walk getting acquainted with the local environment. Also visit National Memorial Chorten: a monument for world peace and prosperity. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu – B. L. D

Day 2: Cultural seeing in Thimphu

Thimphu is geographically placed ideally in a wooded valley, which is an extension of a hillside on the West Bank of the Thimphu Chhu [Chhu means River]. Thimphu is pretty different to other world capitals. This is a Small and secluded the city which is pleasantly quiet and you won’t find traffic jams here like in other asian cities; It is often said that Thimphu is the only world capital without traffic lights. Thimphu’s primary shopping centres are wonderfully placed with its unique architecture and the bright colorful national costumes that most of the local folks wear on the streets.

Our tour begins with a visit to the National Library (closed Saturday, Sunday due to government holidays), which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion.

Our next tour is the nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum (Sat afternoon, Sun & Govt holidays closed). Commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School, the Institute offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills taught at the school. We then drive towards city centre to visit Textile (Sat afternoon, Sun & Govt holiday closed) and Folk Heritage Museum: These museums, both of which opened in 2001, provide absorbing insights into Bhutanese material culture and everyday lifestyles.

The curtain falls on our sightseeing with a visit of Trashichhodzong: This remarkable fortress/monastery houses Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty, the King, and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of Chief Abbot and the central monk body. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu – B. L. D

Day 3: Drive Thimphu to Punakha (75 km, 3 hrs approx)/ Explore Punakha

After our first meal of the day with a king size breakfast, we drive to Punakha across the Dochula pass (3080m). Dochula pass offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day. After checking into our hotel, we proceed to visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. Our adventurous Afternoon walk goes up through fields of chilies {Bhutan’s favorite dish}, cabbages and rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, an amazing monument recently built by the Queen and consecrated in 1999. at eventide, we can use our time for exploring the lively Punakha village located on the banks of the river. B. L. D

Day 4: Sightseeing – Punakha & Wangdue – After breakfast we visit Wangdue Dzong which is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers.

After breakfast, we set out for Wangdue Dzong which is hovering on a spur at the confluence of two rivers. The position of the Dzong is remarkable as it completely covers the spur and commands a notable view over both the north-south and east-west. Wangdue district is also famous for its bamboo work, slate & stone carving. After this, we drive back to Paro descending back down from Dochu La; we follow the way up the staged Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys, before crossing through Paro Town towards the north end of the valley. En route we visit Simtokha Dzong, a place of thoughtful tantric teaching. This dzong houses a school for the study of the Dzongkha language.
After checking into our hotel, we carry on to visit Ta Dzong (closed on Saturday and Sundays due to government holidays), originally built as Watch Towers, it now houses National Museum of the Kingdom and boasts antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. We walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning ‘fortress of the heap of jewels’ which has a long and interesting history. Along the wooden galleries lining the courtyard of the Rinpung Dzong are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. Before we enter the dzong we cross a picturesque traditional cantilever bridge, locally known as Nemi Zam. Overnight at our hotel – B. L. D

Day 5: Drive Punakha to Paro (125 km, 4hr drive) via Dochula Pass

Today we drive back to Paro, descending back down from Dochula pass, follow the way back up the dramatic Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys, before crossing through Paro Town towards the north end of the valley. En route we visit Simtokha Dzong, a place of profound tantric teaching, this dzong now houses a school for the study of the Dzongkha language. After checking into hotel, we proceed to Ta Dzong (Sun, Mon & Govt holiday closed). Originally built as Watch Tower, it now houses the National Museum of the Kingdom where antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts are showcased. We walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning ‘fortress of the heap of jewels’ which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the courtyard of the Rinpung Dzong are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. Before we enter the dzong we cross a picturesque traditional cantilever bridge, locally known as Nemi Zam.

Day 6: In Paro – In the morning, we take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery (5 hrs walk), the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries.

In the Morning after b/fast, we do an excursion to Taktsang Monastery (5 hrs walk), the most well known of Bhutanese monasteries. The myth goes that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery hence called “Tiger’s Nest”. The excursion to monastery takes about 5 hours for round trip. While returning to Paro, we haul up at Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress from where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago.
The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, “Mountain of Goddess” looms directly over the Dzong. On the way back to hotel, visit 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gembo. One of the most sacred shrines in the country, it reflects the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. Overnight at hotel our hotel in Paro – B. L. D

Day 7: Depart Paro for our next destination or visit Nepal

Tashi Delek Nepal Treks is sure that you enjoyed this amazing cultural and historical tour which has given you many deep insights into this fantastic little Himalayan kingdom, you can now return back to Nepal for some other great holidays or proceed further to your destination of choice. Sayonara friends! We do hope to meet you some day again. Doing a trip to Bhutan is ideally started in kathmandu, or ends in Kathmandu…Nepal has so many programs to give you holidays that only dreams are made off…get in touch with us at Tashi Delek Nepal…we’ll give you holiday options that are not only thrilling, but also pocket friendly with our no-frills costs.

1. Where is Bhutan?

Bhutan is a land-locked country nestled between the world’s giants, India and the Tibetan region of China. Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon is one of the most exotic destinations in the world today. This kingdom, often referred to as the last Shangri-la, is a land of outstanding people, remarkable scenery and natural wonders, and a proud and vibrant culture. Moreover, it is now gradually opening to the world with a sensitive approach to tourism.

2. What is the time difference in Bhutan?

Bhutan Standard Time ( IST ) is 0600 hours (6 hours) ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+6).

3. How can I enter Bhutan?

There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from.  At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.

By Air the Entry Points are:

Bangkok to Paro.

Dhaka to Paro.

Katmandu to Paro.

Kolkata to Paro.

Delhi to Paro.

Singapore to Paro.

By Land, the Entry Points are:

Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland.  All crossings are along the Indian border only - Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Bagdora to Phuntsholing.

Bagdora to Gelephu.

Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar.

Note: Exit can also be done through the same Entry Points.

4. How can I process Visa?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners.  Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry. Visas are approved by the Immigration Department in Thimphu, with which you allowed to enter Bhutan or board the Druk Air flight and Bhutan Airlines.

The actual visa is stamped on the passport upon arrival in the country, either at Paro airport or (if entering by road) at Phuentsholing. You just need to provide us a passport scanned copy by email which should be more than six months validity. There is no need to send the pictures or sign the visa application at this time.

5. What is Visa cost?

International tourist visas a cost of USD $50 applies with TDF (Tourism Development Fund).  This can be paid in advance to you tour operator or travel agent.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives there is no cost incurred.

6. What is the best time to travel to Bhutan?

Bhutan is a year round Tourist Destination and every season or month is the best time. However, depending on climate and festivals, the season is defined either as High or Low seasons. Hence, the best time could be season time and good time can be low season time. However, if you are looking for low cost and good time, we consider the months of January, June and July as the Best time. During this time, you will see fewer foreigners in Bhutan and you have the luxury of enjoying your privacy. When it comes to Hotels also, you have more choices and you will also receive special attention both from the Hoteliers and your Agent since there won’t be many guests and it can be well taken care.

March – May and September – November is the best time to travel in Bhutan. The climate is good then and there are many festivals around this time.

7. Do I require a travel insurance?

Yes, Book Bhutan Tour is committed to a careful preparation of the tour, but cannot foresee all risks and contingencies. In view of these risks, participation is at your own risk. For your own safety of the traveler is to take out a luggage, accident, travel liability and travel insurance that covers the costs of repatriation in case of accident or illness, as a cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. These are not included in the tour price. In addition, Swiss nationals are recommended REGA patronage.

8. What currency shall I carry?

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Most currencies are exchanged by banks here. The most commonly accepted currencies are Ngultrum, US dollars and Indian rupees. However Indian notes in 500 and 1000 denominations are not acceptable. Most handicraft shops accept US dollar. You can even exchange the currencies in some local shops. They give you better exchange rate than the banks.

9. Is it safe to drink tap water in Bhutan?

Tap water is not considered safe for drinking and also ice cubes should be avoided. Mineral water is easily available throughout the country (but make sure that seal is not broken). At the same time it is better to go with the trusted brand rather than picking the local brands.

10. Do I have to worry about altitude sickness in Bhutan?

The altitude in Bhutan is higher than many people are habituated to. Although many people might not have any problem in adjusting, altitude sickness may be a problem for a few ones. If visitors do some simple preparations before leaving for Bhutan, most of the symptoms of altitude sickness can be avoided. Being healthy and in good shape before you arrive in Bhutan will help greatly. It is also recommended that you talk to your local doctor about AMS and medicines in case of emergency.

11. Are there ATM s counter in Bhutan?

Bank of Bhutan (BoB), Bhutan National Bank and Druk PNB Bank ATMs usually accept foreign credit cards; however, it would be prudent to get your cash in Thimphu or Paro before heading out into the countryside, particularly the far east. Transactions are limited to Nu 10,000 or Nu15,000.

12. Is the country safe to travel?

Absolutely, Bhutan is safe for traveler. There is little crime in Bhutan and it is safe for women, family with children and for solo travelers as well. However, women are advised to follow the same universal precautions when they are in crowded entertainment places at night, mainly when in discos or bars.

13. 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.

14. 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.