Item Code: 18-7802
09 days
Duration
Easy
Physicality
Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha
Location
November
Dates
Black-necked Crane Festival
Experience the beauty, culture, and spirituality of Bhutan on this 9-day Black-necked Crane Festival Tour. Begin in Thimphu with a trek to Phajoding Monastery, visits to Buddha Dordenma, and Tashichho Dzong. Travel to Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochula Pass, and explore Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang. Witness the vibrant Black-necked Crane Festival in Gangtey, celebrating the arrival of endangered cranes with traditional performances. Return to Paro to visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong Museum, then journey to the serene Haa Valley via Chele La Pass. Embark on the Bumdra Trek, camping near the monastery and visiting the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery before bidding farewell to Bhutan’s enchanting landscapes and warm culture.
Included
- Private Guided Tour: Personalized experience with an expert guide.
- Visa for Bhutan: Seamless processing for your Bhutan visa.
- Airport Transfers: Hassle-free transfers to and from the airport.
- Daily Meals: Three meals daily (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) at designated restaurants or hotels.
- Accommodation: Stay in comfortable 3-star hotels.
- Expert Guide: A qualified, licensed, and English-speaking guide to enhance your journey.
- Experienced Driver: Travel safely with a skilled and professional driver.
- Tour Vehicle: Comfortable and well-maintained vehicle for all transfers and excursions.
- Entry Fees and Permits: All entry fees, road permits, and access arrangements included.
- Government Charges: Covers all royalties, taxes, and surcharges.
- Complimentary Mineral Water: Stay refreshed throughout your trip.
Not Included
- Flights to Bhutan via Drukair: Can be arranged upon request.
- Connecting Flights: Assistance available for flights with other airlines to connect with Drukair.
- Fine Dining: Meals at 4-5 star restaurants (available upon request).
- Accommodation Outside Bhutan: Not included in the package.
- Personal Expenses: Any expenditure of a personal nature is excluded.
- Travel Insurance: Available for arrangement upon request.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides and drivers are not included.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Costs for alcoholic drinks are excluded.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
- Highlights: Scenic flight over the Himalayas.
- Activities: Explore Tachog Lhakhang, an iron chain bridge; evening stroll in Thimphu’s bustling streets.
- Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 2: Thimphu (Phajoding Trek)
- Highlights: Nature and spirituality.
- Activities: Half-day trek to Phajoding Monastery for breathtaking views and a serene retreat. Visit Buddha Dordenma and Tashichho Dzong in the evening.
- Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha
- Highlights: Dochula Pass and Punakha Dzong.
- Activities: Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views at Dochula Pass, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, and hike to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
- Overnight: Hotel in Punakha.
Day 4: Punakha to Gangtey – Black-necked Crane Festival
- Highlights: Cultural immersion at the festival.
- Activities: Witness the vibrant Black-necked Crane Festival at Gangtey Monastery, celebrating the endangered cranes’ arrival with traditional performances.
- Overnight: Hotel in Gangtey.
Day 5: Gangtey to Paro
- Highlights: Scenic return journey to Paro.
- Activities: Visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong Museum in Paro. Stroll through Paro town.
- Overnight: Hotel in Paro.
Day 6: Paro to Haa via Chele La Pass
- Highlights: Spectacular mountain vistas.
- Activities: Drive to Chele La Pass, the highest motorable road in Bhutan, and explore the serene Haa Valley.
- Overnight: Hotel in Paro.
Day 7: Bumdra Trek – Day 1
- Highlights: Pristine wilderness and mountain views.
- Activities: Begin a trek to Bumdra Monastery, enjoying the panoramic scenery en route. Camp under the stars near the monastery.
- Overnight: Campsite at Bumdra.
Day 8: Bumdra Trek – Day 2
- Highlights: Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Activities: Descend to Paro via Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.
- Overnight: Hotel in Paro.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
- Highlights: Farewell to Bhutan.
- Activities: Transfer to Paro International Airport. Optional sunrise photography in Paro Valley.
