BHUTAN: Black Necked Crane Festival Special

Discover the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan, where happiness meets the Himalayas! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and the serene charm of the last great Himalayan kingdom. Uncover the secrets of Bhutan’s ancient monasteries, indulge in the warmth of its welcoming people, and embark on a journey that transcends ordinary travel. Bhutan awaits, where every moment is a masterpiece and happiness is not just a destination but a way of life!

Highlights

 

  • Zangto Pelri Lhakhang temple
  • Giant Buddha statue
  • Simply Bhutan museum
  • Archery
  • Thimphu’s  market
  • Douchula pass
  • Kharbandi Gompa
  • Gangtey Nature Trail
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Suspension Bridge
  • Tachog Lhakhang Bridge
  • Chimi Lhakhang temple
  • Paro Airport view
  • Tiger’s Nest
  • Black Necked Crane Festival

Itinerary

Day 1- SCENIC ARRIVAL IN BHUTAN
  • Meet your tour manager at Bagdogra airport and get ready for an unforgettable
    journey to the most scenic and carbon-free country in the world: BHUTAN!
  • As you complete customs formalities, the adventure begins in the charming town
    of Phuentsholing.
  • Indulge in a pit stop to explore, savor delicious local cuisine, and visit the exquisite
    Zangto Pelri Lhakhang temple.
  • Get to know your travel squad while sipping on the delightful local peach wine,
    known for its delicious flavors and a touch of tipsiness.
  • Relax and recharge at your hotel, soaking in the anticipation for the incredible
    journey ahead.
  • Rise and shine! Waking up early is totally worth it in this magical land.
  • Today, we embark on a journey to the capital of Bhutan – Thimphu, a city brimming with rich culture and enchanting vibes.
  • On our way, we make a stop at the picturesque Chuzom river confluence, where the Wong Chhu meets its tributary.
  • Get ready for a unique experience – Thimphu is a city without TRAFFIC lights! Feel at home and freely explore the streets of this vibrant capital.
  • Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of Thimphu!
  • Wake up to the refreshing mountain air and indulge in a cup of morning tea.
  • Our first stop is the majestic Buddha Dordenma, a 50-meter-tall golden statue. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions and lifestyle at the captivating Simply Bhutan museum.
  • Immerse yourself in Bhutanese traditions and lifestyle at the captivating
    Simply Bhutan museum. Join an archery lesson and discover the national
    sport.
  • Embark on a scenic hike to Wangditse Temple, offering breathtaking views of the Thimphu valley.
  • As the sun sets, indulge in some retail therapy at the vibrant handicrafts
    market, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and more.
  • End the day on a delicious note with Druk beer and mouthwatering momos,
    a Bhutanese specialty.
  • Overnight in Thimphu, cherishing the serenity and charm of this remarkable city.
  •  Discover the unique measure of Bhutan’s economy – GNH (Gross National
    Happiness) instead of GNP.
  • Journey to Punakha, the warm and ancient capital surrounded by lush
    paddy fields.
  • Take a break at Dochula Pass and marvel at the breathtaking 180-degree
    panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan mountain ranges.
  • Cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges,
    and enjoy the scenic beauty around.
  • Explore the majestic Punakha Dzong at the meeting point of two rivers.
  • Relax and unwind with an overnight stay in Punakha, immersed in the serenity of
    this enchanting place..
  • Scenic Drive to Phobjikha:
    Depart early for Phobjikha, passing through Wangdue and the black mountain
    region. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes—forests, waterfalls, hills, and rivers. The
    journey is an adventure in itself.
  • Black Necked Crane Festival:
    Join the annual Black Necked Crane Festival in Gangtey Gonpa.
    This celebration raises awareness about conserving these endangered cranes. It links
    conservation, community livelihoods, and economic welfare.
  • Gangtey Nature Trail:
    Enjoy a short and easy trek along the Gangtey Nature Trail. Encounter beautiful villages
    and monasteries while soaking in Bhutan’s natural beauty.
  • Return to Punakha:
    Overnight in Punakha, cherishing the memories of a day filled with culture and
    nature’s wonder.
  • Explore the picturesque valley town of Paro, known for its natural beauty and cultural
    treasures.
    Enroute to Paro, visit the historic Tachog Lhakhang Bridge, the oldest iron suspension
    bridge, and soak in the rustic charm.
    Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Chimi Lhakhang, a temple of fertility,
    and learn about its unique traditions.
    Indulge in the breathtaking view of planes at the iconic Paro Airport View Point, a
    must-visit spot for aviation enthusiasts.
    Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Paro with a variety of cafes offering cuisines
    ranging from Indian to Mexican. Shop for authentic handicrafts, local groceries, and
    wine to take home as souvenirs of your Bhutanese adventure.
    Overnight in Paro, surrounded by the tranquility and beauty of this charming town.
  • Embark on a thrilling hiking adventure to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, also known
    as Taktshang Goemba, perched on a cliff high above the valley. Marvel at
    this architectural marvel and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
  • OR
  • Explore the spiritual heart of Bhutan at Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest
    monastery in the country. Immerse yourself in its serene ambiance and
    discover its rich history.
  • Indulge in a delicious Bhutanese feast featuring local favorites such as Ema
    Datshi (cheese and chili dish), Shakam Paa (dried beef curry), and Kewa
    Datshi (potato and cheese curry). Experience the flavors that define
    Bhutanese cuisine.
  • End the day at Paro town with an amazing lunch and treat yourself to the
    Bhutanese specialty Hot Stone bath (optional activity at an additional
    cost). Relax and calm all those sore nerves after the trekking adventure.
  • Depart from Paro and embark on a scenic drive back to Phuentsholing. Along
    the way, make a stop at Kharbandi Gompa, also known as Rinchending
    Gompa. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Great Indian plains in the south and
    majestic mountains in the north from this tranquil monastery.
  • Arrive in Phuentsholing and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Take the
    opportunity to explore the city, relax with your travel companions, or indulge in
    some last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • As the night falls, reminisce about the incredible experiences you’ve had
    throughout your Bhutan journey and cherish the memories made with your
    newfound travel squad.
  • Overnight in Phuentsholing, savoring the final moments of your Bhutan
    adventure.
  • Bid farewell to Bhutan with a heavy heart, carrying precious memories, a deeper
    connection to nature, and newfound friendships.
  • Depart from Phuentsholing and embark on a scenic drive back to Bagdogra
    airport, reminiscing about the magical moments and experiences you had in
    Bhutan.
  • Embrace your travel companions, exchanging heartfelt hugs and promises to
    stay in touch, as you say goodbye to your Bhutanese adventure.
  • Reflect on the enchanting beauty, tranquility, and happiness you experienced in
    Bhutan, cherishing the memories that will last a lifetime.
  • Board your flight from Bagdogra airport, carrying a little piece of Bhutan in your
    heart and a longing to return to this magical kingdom one day.

 

AIRPORT TRANSFERS:

  • Airport Pick up and drop off are covered

ACCOMMODATION:

Accommodation on twin sharing basis. we stay at really nice 3 star premium hotels which are centrally located all handpicked by our team

  • Hotel Ga Me Ga – Phuentsholing
  • Hotel Amodhara – Thimphu
  • Hotel Vara – Punakha
  • Metta Resort – Paro or similar properties.

TRANSPORTATION:

  • All intercity & Local transportation within Bhutan based on itinerary are included.

MEALS:

  • 8 Breakfasts & 8 Dinners

ACTIVITIES:

  • Phuentsholing: Zangto Pelri Lhakhang,kharbandi Gompa.
  • Enroute: Chuzom river confluence, Dochula Pass, Chimi Lhakhang.
  • Thimphu: Buddha Viewpoint, Simply Bhutan Museum, Wangditse Hike.
  • Punakha: Punakha Dzong, Suspension Bridge.
  • Paro: Airport Viewpoint, Tiger’s Nest trek / Kyichu Lhakhang.

TRIP LEADER & SUPPORT:

  • Pre-trip support on travel related matters. And will be there for you from the moment you check-in to hotel to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip.

LOCAL TAXES & FEES:

  • Entry fees for included places, local SDF charges (1200/per person/per day), E-permit charges & taxes are all included. No hidden charges.

FLIGHTS:

Flights to and from Bagdogra are not included. We can assist you if needed.

  • Entrance fee to the Tiger’s Nest monastery. (INR 1000)
  • River Rafting
  • Hot Stone bath – This activity is optional and comes at an additional cost of 2,500₹ per person

PERSONAL EXPENSES:

  • Personal Expenses like alcohol, shopping and anything not mentioned in inclusions is considered as personal expense

A tour manager who loves to make your travel journey worth your time and money! Friendly groups specially for the solo travellers.. had a fun time and loved the enthusiastic travel leader. She took some time out of the itenary to make sure that I don’t miss out on the local delicacy that I soo wanted to have.. a trip to remember and many more to come with TakingYouPlaces ♥️

Shailly Srivastava

I’ve traveled many times over the years, and have never experienced such thorough planning, attention to detail, and excellent communication before, during, and after my trip. Excellent job done by group leader who holds immense experience in the industry. I am extremely satisfied and I will definitely get in touch with TakingYouPlaces for all my travel needs in the future.

Anchal Bhatia

Loved the trip organised by TakingYouPlaces! I wanted to travel and enjoy the calmness and comfort of the nature and as per my requirements the travel leader suggested and planned a superb getaway. Very well organised trip by our travel guide.. She knows how to strike a balance between the group.. wishing her all the best for her future trip with TakingYouPlaces.

Praharsh