1: ARRIVE AT PARO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT / TRANSFER TO THIMPHU (2334M)

Thimphu - Our guide and the driver will receive you at Paro International Airport and then begin a 1.5-hour journey to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Arriving in Thimphu you’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in 1974 in memory of the Third King of Bhutan. Visit the magnificent 169-foot bronze statue of Buddha overlooking Thimphu valley. From here we drive to visit a weaving center where both men and women can be seen weaving some of the most intricate designs and patterns of Bhutanese textiles using traditional handloom. Weaving is an integral part of Bhutanese culture and tradition.

THIMPHU / TRANSFER TO PUNAKHA VALLEY (1200M)

Punakha - Before heading to Punakha valley, visit some interesting sites in Thimphu including Bhutan’s only animal enclosure - Royal Takin Preserve where you’ll see unique Takin, the national animal of Bhutan. From there go to visit an art school, the National Institute for Zorig Chusum where the 13 Bhutanese traditional arts & crafts are taught to youth. A traditional lunch will be hosted at Folk Heritage Restaurant. After lunch, pass by Changlimithang Archery Range to witness archery, the national sport of Bhutan. You’ll see archers singing and dancing each time the target is hit from a whopping distance of 145m. We then start a 2.5-hour journey to Punakha via sacred Dochula Pass, enjoy a spectacular view of some of the highest mountains of Bhutan (weather permitting). Arriving Punakha, visit the famous Chimi Lhakhang known as “Temple of Fertility” believed to bless visiting childless couples with fertility. Explore the nearby village whose houses are adorned with huge paintings of phalluses.

Punakha Dzong - If time permits, drive to proper Punakha and visit the Punakha Dzong. Originally built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel who founded the national state of Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is considered a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. The sacred wall paintings and main artifacts inside the dzong, the intricate woodworks are fine examples of Bhutanese arts and craftsmanship which continue to influence Bhutanese architecture even today. If interested you can also walk to Bhutan’s longest suspension connecting to the village of Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha across the glacial-fed Phochu river.

• All internal taxes for the services listed above
• All ground transportation including round trip airport transfers
• All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and light snacks
• Domestic flight from Bumthang to Paro on Day 06
• Twin-sharing accommodation at 3-star hotels certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan
• Entry fee to National Museum
• Experienced English-speaking licensed guide
• Visa Fee & Processing. You’ll receive your e-Visa within 4-5 business days.

• Travel insurance
• International flights. Let us know if you need help with arranging flights to and from Bhutan.
• Alcoholic beverages, laundry services, telephone call charges
• Emergency evacuation
• Guide speaking other major languages can be arranged for an additional fee
• Tips to guide and driver
• Any other expenses of personal nature
• All Entry fees except for National Museum

This is a responsible and sustainable tour that directly helps local communities and guarantees authentic experiences with minimal impact on the environment.

Experience the amazing cultural heritage and traditions of Bhutan from dazzling ancient festivals and secluded peaceful monasteries to the spectacular fortresses and beautiful valleys that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Get up close with the hospitable people of Bhutan and the natural environment they live in with our passionate and expert local guide who knows the places inside out.

• This tour can be customized and run on a private basis just for you and your group.
• We highly recommend booking at least a few months before the departure date so that we have enough time to ensure the flights are available. To process visa, it only takes 4-5 business days.
• There are only two airlines that connect Bhutan with the outside world and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season. Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. We recommend you to book your international flights few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March to May and September to November. If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.
• After you book the tour, kindly send us clear passports copies of all the participants. A biodata page including the machine-readable zone must be seen clearly. Passports should have a minimum of 6 MONTHS validity from the day you depart from Bhutan. You may also want to check the passport requirements by your next destination country after Bhutan. A copy of your e-Visa will be emailed to you once it is approved. It only takes 4-5 business days to get visa approval and it is 100 percent guaranteed as long as we receive clear passport copies of all the participants. Actual visa will be stamped on your passport upon arrival. Send the passport copies to the Local Supplier E-mail address.
• Youth between the ages of 12-18 MUST send us a copy of their valid Student Photo ID Card/Document to keep the discounted price. Without a copy of valid Student Photo ID Card/document, the full adult price will apply. Youth MUST also be accompanied by at least one full-paying adult.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.