A Himalayan kingdom of mysticism and magic. Bhutan is no ordinary place. Where the ideas and practices of Buddhist culture and religion still overwhelm the influences of television and popular culture.
Bhutan is full of surprises. From the local delicacies such as red rice, or the chilli and cheese national dish Ema Datshi, to the great protective phalluses painted at the entrance of homes!
The Kingdom of Bhutan and its government are unique – they are guided by the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), completely overshadowing GDP as their primary measure of living standard. Most rules, regulations, and policies are designed with GNH in mind. For instance, at least 60% of the country must remain forested, and there is an intention to reach a level of full organic food production. Bhutan may appear small and with little wealth, but they set an example the rest of the world could do well to follow.
In Bhutan, you won’t find a country downtrodden by backpackers and mass tourism – the government implicitly controls numbers. A minimum daily tourist rate of USD 250 a day was introduced, ruling out low-cost lodgings. At first, this seems a lot but includes a local guide, accommodation, food, and transport. All is taken care of and paid in advance!
Bhutanese architecture impresses with its beautiful dzongs and monasteries, yet there are many other surprises around the corner. Archery competitions, exquisite fabrics, and the religious tsechus festivals with their lively dancing and costumes are all to be experienced. As you travel around you’ll notice citizens wearing their national dress, this is a legal requirement during daylight hours and for all government offices, schools, and formal occasions.
Let's not forget the spectacular alpine trails, stunning flora and fauna; and wonderful, calm, happy people. All surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the highest mountains in the world!
ITINERARY
Day 1 – Depart Warsaw for Kathmandu, Nepal.
Day 2 – Touchdown in Kathmandu and transfer to our hotel for rest.
Day 3 – Flight from Kathmandu to Paro in Bhutan. Remember to look out the window: spectacular views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, the holy mountain of Jomolhari, Jitchu Drake, and other famous Himalayan peaks. On touching down we transfer to our hotel and in the afternoon the exploring starts! First a visit to Paro Dzong, a great fortress built in 1645. Then on to the ruins of Drukgyel; this dzong burnt down in 1951 and was originally built in 1647 to celebrate Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetan invasion force. Next, the 7th century Kyichu Temple built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, and finally, the Dungtse Temple erected in 1421. We can look forward to visiting a traditional Bhutanese farm in the evening with the rest of the night free in Paro.
Day 4 – We start with an early breakfast before a 10km walk to the Taktsang Monastery. Clinging to the side of an 800m high cliff, the name of this monastery means ‘Tiger’s Nest’. It’s believed the second Buddha Guru Padmasambhava arrived here on the back of a tiger in the second half of the 8th century. And don’t panic, for those not up to the ascent by foot can choose the comfort of a horse! After lunch, a 4-hour walk around the lake before travelling to Thimphu in the evening. Once again the night is yours.
Day 5 – Today we discover Thimphu. We start with the Memorial of Chorten before moving on to the 15th century Changangkha temple. Next, a zoo housing the national animal of Bhutan – the local ‘Takin’, these interesting creatures are of the goat and sheep family. During our trip, we have a chance to stop at a great vantage point to view the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan. We then move on to one of the few remaining monasteries for nuns in the world, the fascinating Zilukha nunnery. In the afternoon we cross our fingers for good weather in order to view stunning Himalayan peaks as we travel through the Dochula pass at 3150m above sea level on our 3hr drive to the Punakha/Wangdue Valley.
Day 6 – The morning begins with a visit to the magnificent Punakha Dzong, built in 1637. This once served as the capital and seat of government for Bhutan until the mid-1950s and is still the winter residence of the ‘Dratshang Lhentshog ’ - the official monk body. The complex sits at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Po Chhu (female and male rivers). If you’re considering children then our next stop, taking us past rural houses and rice fields, may be for you. Chimi Lhakhang is a monastery for women seeking blessings in their pursuit of children; traditionally a blessing is given by a monk striking the pilgrim’s head with a 25cm wooden phallus!
Day 7 – Transfer to Paro airport and our departure for Kathmandu, Nepal. The adventure continues!
NEPAL
A rich culture, history dating back thousands of years, the gateway to the Himalayas, ten of the highest peaks in the world, there are many reasons to be excited about this part of our trip.
But there is more to Nepal. Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism was born here a prince, becoming Buddha or the ‘Enlightened One’. Trade routes and religions having been crossing paths here since the dawn of time, creating a huge melting pot of colours, scents, flavours, and sounds, ready to feed your soul and senses!
With a population approaching one million inhabitants, the capital Kathmandu is the fastest growing tourist destination in Asia and third fastest in the world. You’ll see why!
Day 8 – Touchdown in Kathmandu and straight to the beautiful Boudhanath monastery with our local guide. Our small hotel is in the historical heart of the city.
Day 9 – First breakfast, then we head off for Bhaktapur Durbar Square and its royal palace, and on to Changunarayan Temple – the oldest in the Kathmandu valley. In the afternoon we’re back to the centre with the rest of the afternoon free; you have the chance to spend plenty of time getting lost in the charming narrow streets, perhaps picking up a few souvenirs on the way.
Day 10 – After breakfast, we visit the villages of Bungmati, famous for its wood carvers; and Kokhana, known for its production of rich mustard oils since ancient times. Next, we head to Patan Durbar Square followed by Kathmandu Durbar Square, you’ll feel the history of these magical places as you experience their medieval palaces and alleyways. If you’re into bells then you’re in luck, we encounter the largest in Nepal, and of course shops where you can buy absolutely anything! We then move on to Swayambhunath, also known as Monkey Temple, at around 2000 years old it’s one of the most fascinating places of Hindu and Buddhist significance. This is also a great vantage point to take in views of the beautiful Kathmandu valley.
We can then look forward to a half-hour trek from Chobar Gorge to Khokana, the gorge being formed by the Bagmati river slicing a path through Chobar hill.
After another short half-hour walk and passing the delightful bazaars of the Ason markets, we reach Thamel – for decades the tourist centre of Kathmandu. As the departing location for expeditions to Mount Everest, this is where the action takes place! You’ll have plenty of time to independently explore this bustling area. Finally, a perfect end to the day with a farewell dinner and local dancing, Nepalese style...
Day 11 – Breakfast, then free time for some last minute shopping and packing. Those looking for one last thrill can organise a morning sightseeing flight close to Mount Everest, an exciting option for stunning views of the highest mountain in the world. Photographers remember to take your camera!
Around noon we transfer to the airport and depart for Warsaw.
Day 12 – Touchdown in Warsaw.
End of trip
PRICE:
USD 2620/pp plus return flights from your departing location (sharing a room).
USD 3180/pp plus return flights from your departing location (not sharing a room).
Included in the Price:
Not Included in the Price:
