Bhutan Heartland Tour

9 Nights | 10 Days

Group Size

Min 1Pax

Trip Grade

Grade A: Easy Grade A: Easy
No difficulties for short treks & hiking trips. The trip reaches up to 3000 meters altitude. The trails will not be rugged and these types of holiday trips include all the sightseeing city tours, day trips, jungle trips, and village tours and are highly suitable for family trips. The trips are generally around 1 week to 10 days.

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Price From

US $5,500 (All-inclusive price)

Trip Highlights

 

  • Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery): This iconic monastery perched on the edge of a cliff is one of Bhutan's most famous landmarks. The hike to the Tiger's Nest offers stunning views and a chance to explore this spiritual site.

  • Thimphu: The capital city of Bhutan offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Highlights include the Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress, and the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent stupa. Thimphu also has a vibrant craft market where you can purchase traditional Bhutanese handicrafts.

  • Punakha Dzong: This stunning fortress at the confluence of two rivers is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful location. It holds historical and cultural significance and is one of the most impressive dzongs in Bhutan.

  • Dochula Pass: A mountain pass that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. It's also known for its 108 chortens (stupas) and the nearby Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple.

  • Gangtey Valley: This serene valley is known for its natural beauty and the Gangtey Monastery, which is a prominent religious institution in the region. The area is also a habitat for the endangered black-necked cranes.

  • Bumthang Valley: Often referred to as the cultural heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang offers a cluster of valleys with numerous monasteries, temples, and traditional architecture. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture.

  • Trongsa Dzong: This strategically located dzong is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and has played a crucial role in the country's history.

  • Cultural Experiences: The Bhutan Heartland Tour provides opportunities to witness traditional Bhutanese dances, attend local festivals (like the Paro Tsechu), and interact with local people, allowing you to gain insight into Bhutan's unique culture.

  • Hot Springs: Bhutan is dotted with natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties. A dip in these hot springs can be a relaxing way to unwind during your journey.

  • Local Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is distinct and often features spicy flavors. Be sure to try dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese stew) and red rice.

Bhutan one of the kingdoms which are one of the sovereign states landlocked in the eastern Himalayas in south Asia adjoin to the north by China and to the south, east and west by India. To the west, it is detached from Nepal by the Indian state of Sikkim, while beyond south it is separated from Bangladesh by the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal. Thimphu one of Bhutan largest and capital city where lots of Dukpas peoples are mainly found and to the Bhutanese people them said Dukpa people in their culture. This Kingdom is snuggled high in the peaceful Himalayas is a haven to rich bio-diversity, vivacious religion, exclusive arts, rich history, cultural splendor, heritage and scenic grandeur. It is a captivating land where time had erected still and conserved the beautiful exquisiteness of this mystic country.

Bhutan Cultural Heartland Tour bids you the opportunities to familiarity with the remote life of the local people and their lovely handicrafts industry like handbags, shawls, statue of god and also there is antique shop where you get many old historic stuff so, you get to grasp this opportunities to visit this place. Their primary language is Dzongkha people in Bhutan they only speak their language and only wear their traditional dresses people give more priority to their culture. The main faith practiced by the Drukpa is Buddhism, a system of beliefs and practices based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, usually known as the Buddha. This tour in Bhutan is for those tourists who want to relish the nature with the stunning views of the mountain. Overcome high passes like the Pele La, Dochu La, and Chele La with mighty mountain views, and you get to gaze over deeps gorges carved out by pure mountain rivers. It is home to such rare mammals as Takin (a large, musk-ox-like animal), Royal Bengal tiger, Black necked Crane, clouded leopards, Golden Languor and red pandas and even the bird species range from the Himalayan black Eagle and boreal owl to the tiny black-throated parrot bill. Bhutan also known as the land of the Thunder Dragon is one of the best extremely commended travel destinations. This is a land of extraordinary natural beauty with an unspoiled and flawless environment and a welcoming, tradition-bound folks.

Our Redrose Travel  provides you the best opportunities to experience the culture and their traditions of the Bhutan this tour is the vibrant religion with unique arts, heritage and picturesque grandeur with this trip you can have a great experience and unforgettable holiday in Bhutan.

 

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival at Paro Airport

You can take flight to Paro from Bangkok, New Delhi, Kathmandu, Dhaka etc. We recommend you to fly from Bangkok because Druk air offer everyday flight from Bangkok – Paro – Bangkok whereas Druk air do not operate everyday flights from other sectors.

The flight to Bhutan offers scenic views of some of the highest peaks in the world.

Paro is at an altitude of 2280m above sea level and this valley serves as an ideal area for rice, apple, wheat, potatoes and vegetable growing. Our Bhutanese tour guide will meet you at Paro airport, traditionally welcomed with silk scarves and after completion of arrival formalities we then transfer to hotel. Overnight at a hotel.
(Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 2 - Sightseeing around Paro then evening drive to Thimphu

We visit the Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum and visit Paro’s Rimpung Dzong, on the way down we cross the 16th century cantilever bridge. Also visiting the Drugyel Dzong victory fortress, built in 1647 which is 18 kilometres from the Paro town. Explore the magnificent ramparts of the erstwhile fortress which defended the country against several incursions. On a clear day one can also view the sacred Mount Jomolhari, from the northern battlements. We take a visit to a farm house and observe the traditional Bhutanese way of life and living. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 3 - Sightseeing in and around Thimphu

Early morning we take a scenic drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, approx 90 mins drive from Paro. Sightseeing in and around Thimphu valley we visit the National Library, which holds a collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, as well as the institute for Zorig Chusum commonly known as Painting School, textile and Folk Heritage Museum which provides an insight into Bhutanese material culture and everyday way of life. Also visiting the National Memorial Chorten, Trashichho dzong an impressive monastery, Bhutanese Handicrafts displaying a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles and craft products. In the evening we explore the vibrant Thimphu Bazaar. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 4- Drive from Thimphu to Gangtey/Phobjikha

Drive to the glacial valley of Phobjikha via Dochula, this pass offers the panoramic view of Bhutan’s Himalayan Ranges. Along the slopes is the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. This quiet and remote valley is the winter home of the black necked cranes. Explore Gangtey village and Phobjikha valley. The unique black necked crane festival is held on the valley floor every November. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 5 - Sightseeing around Paro then evening drive to Thimphu

After an early breakfast, drive to Tongsa across Pele-la pass (3,300m). The pass is marked by a white chorten and many prayer flags. There is an abrupt change in vegetation with mountain forest replaced by high altitude dwarf bamboo.

Stop at Chendebji Chorten. You can see the chorten with eyes painted at the four cardinal points. It was built in the 18th century by Lama Shida from Tibet, to cover the remains of evil spirit that was subdued at this spot. Finally reaching towards Trongsa you can view the stunning Trongsa Dzong from a distance.

Bumthang, 68 kms away from Trongsa, a journey of about 3 hours, over the Yutong-la pass (3,400m). The road winds steeply up to the pass, then runs down through coniferous forest into a wide, open cultivated valley known as the Chumey valley. Stopping in Chumey village there are many shops selling yathra, a woolen textile. Bumthang is famous for yathra a distinctive strip of woven woolen fabric in numerous colours and patterns mostly made using ancient dyeing techniques. The Road follows the valley down and it climbs through blue pine forests to Kiki La (2,860m). We then descent down to the Choekor Valley or central of Bumthang. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 6 - Sightseeing in and around Bumthang

The Bumthang valley comprises of a combination of four valleys – Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura with altitudes varying from 2,600m to 4,000m. Home to many of prominent Buddhist temples and monasteries. Visiting the Jakar Dzong built in 1667 and it`s seat of district administration and regional monastic body of Bumthang. Jambay Lhakhang founded in 7th century by the Tibetan king Songsen Gampo it is one of the oldest monasteries in the country. Kurje Lhakhang, where the patron saint of Buddhism in Bhutan subdued a local demon and left his body imprint. Tamshing founded in 1501 by Terton (Treasure Revealer) Pema Lingpa the incarnation of Guru Rinpoche. The monastery has very ancient religious paintings like 1000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhisattvas) in Bhutan. Visit a farmer’s house for refreshments and observe the traditional way of living. We also visit a Swiss farm which produces cottage, swiss cheese, honey, a large variety of fruit juice and spirits. The Brewery that manufactures the famous Red Panda Beer (weiss beer) also located here. Take a leisurely walk in Chamkhar town. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 7 - Drive through Trongsa to Punakha

Leaving Bumthang, we head for Trongsa where we will visit the Trongsa Dzong which was built in 1648 it is the biggest of all the fortresses in the country. Drive to Punakha via Wangdiphodrang after which we take a stroll through the Wangdi market. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 8 - Sightseeing in Punkha with overnight accommodation in Paro

Drive north to visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 which strategically occupies the land between the two rivers Phochu and Mochu. At Present the Dzong serve as the district administration and judiciary office as well as the winter home for Bhutan’s spiritual leader Je Khenpo and the monks of Thimphu and Punakha. We then drive onto Lobesa where you take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple. This temple is on a hill top and it is dedicated to the great Yogi known as Drukpa Kuenley or popularly known as “Divine madman” of the 14th century. It is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 9 - Sightseeing in and around Paro

Excursion to the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). The trail to the monastery climbs through beautiful Pine and rhododendron forests. We stop at the tea house for rest and refreshments, the tea house offers magnificent up close view of the tigers nest and continue the hike for short while until you see, clearly and seemingly within reach, the imposing Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900m into the valley below. History states that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tiger and meditated here for three months. It is regarded to be one of the most venerated cultural heritage sites in Bhutan. People from all over the Himalayan Diaspora frequent this place on the pilgrimage trail to Bhutan. Overnight at a hotel.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included)

Day 10 - Transfer to international airport for your final departure.

After breakfast our airport representative will drop you to the Paro International Airport for your flight departure from Bhutan.
(Breakfast Included)

Inclusions

 

  • Visa fee for Bhutan
  • All Transfer between airport hotels
  • Government approved A and B category hotels in the cities and camping (tents) during trekking on twin- shared basis
  • All Meals, Breakfasts and Snacks during the days of the trip
  • Transportation in comfortable private vehicle(s)
  • English speaking, trained and experienced local guide and staff
  • All entrance and permit fees for visits to monuments and museums
  • Full board camping
  • Tents and Kitchen utensils for trekking
  • Company services and all required Bhutanese government taxes/royalties

Essential Info

Accomodations

Hotels in Bhutan are categorized as category “A”, Category “B” and category “C”. You will be provided with accommodations in one of the categories “A”, “B” hotels in main cities of Bhutan and during the days in the remote areas of Bhutan, you will spend the night in the tented camps. All accommodations are in twin sharing basis and you will be charged extra if you want a single supplement.

Meals

All meals (full Board) will be provided during the trip. A variety of meals are available in most of the Hotels in Bhutan. Non-vegetarian dishes are generally available in most parts of Bhutan - pork, beef, chicken, and fish. The best way to get a good meal is to request hotels and restaurants for the best and freshest meal available.

Best Season

The best seasons to join this trip are Springs (March to June) and in the Autumn (September to November). The weather is clear and views are breathtaking.

Luggage/Backpack:

You have to carry your own small baggage containing your own water bottle, towel, tissue or toilet paper, camera or any other stuff which you usually carry and this small baggage should be carried by yourself. Some of the gears and clothes which are not needed during your trip can be left in the hotel safe deposit box carefully locking it properly and for the deposit there will be no charges so, you can freely keep your belongings which are not needed..  

Guide:

We the company Redrose Travel  will be providing you the well expert trained/experienced guide who will be handling all your trip issue. Like if you are in a huge group tour like more than 10 people than we will be providing you an extra guide which will be divided into two groups or more than three according to the number of people in the group. 

Personal Expenses:

Your personal expenses should be deposited by yourself like if you addicted to alcohol and all the alcohol you consume during your trip should be paid by yourself that goes to snacks or any other additional meals. Though the cost of accommodation and meals are included in package but such additional meals and drinks- alcohol and non-alcohol beverage, snacks, tips for guide and porters, hot shower- accessible only in some hotel, entrance fee etc It is up to you whether you like to give tips to the guide and porter, if you are satisfied with their services then you can tip them.

Our Greetings at Airport:

We suggest you that when you are confirmed for this trip we advise you to give us your international flight schedule so, we the team can easily get to you and pick you up from the airport on time. As soon as you finish processing the customs formalities and come out from there and there you can find our representative carrying a signboard of Ganesh Himal Hiking Team and the team will greet you and take you to the hotel in private vehicle. Like if you have already booked the hotel by your own then we advise informing the hotel that you are staying so it will be easy for our representative to drop you at the hotel.

Itinerary and Possible Changes on it:

Our usual itinerary is main customary and pragmatic which has also included your arrival day, departure day. If you like to adjust the itinerary we can set it for you as per your desire so, before that let us know before booking the trip and then we will arrange the itinerary and the cost. Like if you like to extend more days then we will even manage it for you as in our package we have kept extra day because we don’t know the situation of Himalaya weather it suddenly changes and faces problems like delayed flights or cancellation of flight.

Booking and Payment:

For booking any trip, first you have to deposit 20% in advance if you are confirmed for the trip you have to send even your flight detail schedule, a passport photocopy and if you cancel the booking then this 20% is not -refundable.  The remaining 80% can be paid when you reach Kathmandu and if you want to pay in advance you can deposit it by transferring through a bank, credit card, even throughout Pay pal account lets us know then we will be sending you the detail for payment.

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