Beautiful Bhutan

Bangkok, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Trongsa & Bumthang plus Bangkok optional extension

NEW: Prices now INCLUDE airline taxes & fees!
Includes airfare, fuel surcharges, airline taxes and fees, hotels, transfers, many meals, touring & more. *

Overview

Itinerary at a Glance Beautiful Bhutan
Day	Destinations
1	Depart USA
2	En route
3	Bangkok, Thailand
4	Paro & Thimphu, Bhutan
5	Thimphu
6	Thimphu & Punakha
7	Punakha & Trongsa
8	Trongsa & Bumthang
9	Bumthang
10	Bumthang & Punakha
11	Punakha & Thimphu
12	Thimphu & Paro
13	Paro, Bhutan & Bangkok
14	Bangkok/USA
Bangkok Extension
14	Bangkok
15	Bangkok
16	Bangkok/USA

Departures	April – May 2012
Departs	Los Angeles (LAX)
Highlights	Thimphu, Trongsa, Bumthang, Wangdue Dzong, Festival & Taktsang Monastery and an optional 2 night Bangkok extension!
Included Features	Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles via scheduled China Airlines and Druk Air flights, including fuel surcharges and taxes and fees All transfers and intra-Bhutan ground transportation Accommodations in First Class hotels with private bath Breakfast daily plus 9 lunches & 9 dinners Comprehensive guided touring program including all entrance fees to places visited, as described in our itinerary Special opportunity to attend a traditional Bhutanese spiritual festival Professional, English-speaking tour director Group visa fees Optional Bangkok post-tour extension

Come with us to experience a once-in-a-lifetime guided tour of Bhutan. This is one destination that even the most seasoned travelers consider a privilege to visit. Perched high atop the mighty Himalayan range, the Kingdom of Bhutan has defied globalization and chosen to remain a hidden paradise. Although it consistently ranks as one of the world's top destinations, its remote location and strong preservation efforts make it accessible to only a fortunate few. Now, Friendly Planet's Beautiful Bhutan vacation package makes it possible for you to not only visit this exotic land, but also immerse yourself in its rich cultural traditions.

Your Himalayan adventure will let you experience the enchantment of Bhutan's ancient fortresses, monasteries, and temples, the richness of its artisan traditions, and the beauty of its pristine natural landscape as you traverse the country's mountainous terrain. This unique program also provides ample time to interact with the friendly people of Bhutan, including a very special opportunity to join hundreds of Bhutanese in their celebrations of the spiritual festivals of Thangbi (October departure), Jambay (November departure) and Bumthang (December departure). The September departure will enjoy of Mock Mask Festival in a local home. You're sure to leave with an enlightened understanding of the country's national philosophy of "Gross National Happiness." But, be sure to reserve your space quickly, as this once-in-a-lifetime trip is sure to sell out quickly!

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Dates, Prices & Options

Coming from somewhere else? Unfortunately, we don't offer departures from cities that are not listed, but you can book your own connecting flights separately.

Want to stay longer? We may be able to arrange for you to extend your stay up to 30 days later than the scheduled dates above. Ask us about availability, prices and details.

Deposit: The deposit for this tour is $1000 per person and is non-refundable.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Depart USA. Your exotic journey to Bhutan begins this evening as you check in for your flight to Bangkok, via Taipei.

Day 2: En route. Cross the International Dateline and lose a day en route to Thailand. You will recover this day on the return portion of your trip.

Day 3: Bangkok. Late morning arrival in Bangkok, bustling, captivating and fascinating capital of Thailand, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Our representatives will meet you upon arrival, assist with passport and customs formalities and transfer to your hotel. Dusit Thani Hotel

Day 4: Arrive Paro, Bhutan & Thimphu. Transfer to the airport to continue your flight to Paro, Bhutan via Druk Air. On a clear day, experience breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas. A representative will greet you upon arrival at Paro International Airport.

After customs formalities, board your motor coach for the scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city, passing through a bucolic landscape dotted with rice paddy fields, apple orchards, and quaint villages. Time permitting; enjoy a panoramic tour of Thimphu Valley upon arrival. Thimphu is situation at an elevation of 8200ft. Hotel Migmar or similar. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Thimphu. Your first full day in Bhutan begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and the Dupthop Lhakhang Monastery. Continue to the National Library, a fascinating repository of numerous ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the city painting school where students are trained in the traditional art of painting Thangkhas (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls).

After lunch, proceed to the traditional Medicine Institute to learn about ancient Bhutanese healing practices. Then, at Lungtenzampa, you'll have the opportunity to observe the traditional royal silversmiths and papermakers at work. Your tour of Thimphu concludes with a visit to the local handicraft emporium, where you can shop for unique Bhutanese gifts and souvenirs. (B,L,D)

Oct 3 departure will follow this itinerary in the afternoon: Visit the Thimphu weekend market, where vendors from throughout the region arrive on Friday afternoon, and remain until Sunday night, to sell their goods. Here you will find locally produced handicrafts, baskets, fabrics and different hats from the various minority groups. You will have the opportunity to shop for unique Bhutanese gifts and souvenirs.

Day 6: Thimphu & Punakha. Today, travel by bus to the town of Punakha, making stops for scenic treks along the way. Take in sweeping, panoramic views of the snowcapped Himalayan mountain ranges at the Dochula Pass. Continue driving to Lobesa, where you'll hike up a small hill to the Chimi Lhakjang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenly, the great 14th century Yogi. Locals believe that this temple blesses women seeking fertility. Check-in at the hotel for lunch and then proceed to the majestic Punakha Dzong. Situated between the Phochu and Mochu Rivers ("Male" and "Female" Rivers, respectively), this fortress is the most magnificent in all of Bhutan. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it served as the country's capital. Today, it houses the district administrative and judiciary offices as well as the winter home for Bhutan's spiritual leader, Je Khenpo, and the 600 monks of Thimphu and Punakha. Meri Puensum Resort or similar. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Punakha & Trongsa. After a hearty breakfast early this morning, set out on the fabulous drive to Trongsa. As you cross the Punakha Valley and enter into the valley of Wangdue Phodrang, take in the breathtaking beauty and serenity of Bhutan's diverse, untouched flora and fauna.

Thanks to its isolation, small population, mountainous terrain, and the national religion of Buddhism, which stresses the sanctity of all life, Bhutan has protected virtually all of its forests and wildlife. As a result, this tiny kingdom, in contrast to all of its neighbors, possesses the last truly intact, large-scale ecosystem in the Himalayas.

The first stop is the impressive fortress of Wangdue Dzong, which stands on a hilltop overlooking the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu Rivers. Continue climbing through the semi-tropical vegetation to Pele Pass (elevation 10 989 feet), traditionally considered the boundary between West and East Bhutan. From here, hike downhill through an alpine forest of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo to Rukubji Village for a picnic lunch.

Proceed to the Chendebji Chorten, a large 18th century Buddhist monument constructed by a Lama to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was believed to terrorize inhabitants of the valley. As you approach Trongsa, gaze in wonder at its huge fortress that sits on a narrow promontory that juts out over the gorge of the Mangde River. The view from this Dzong extends for many miles, and in former times nothing could escape the vigilance of its watchmen. Check in at your resort hotel, offering superb views of the soaring mountains and majestic Dzong. Yangkhil Resort or similar. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Trongsa & Bumthang. The majestic Trongsa Dzong, built in 1647, served as the site of many important historical events in making of modern Bhutan. After a short walk, learn more about Bhutan's history on this morning's visit to the Dzong. Also, visit Taa Dzong, the ancient watchtower, now a museum dedicated to the Kings of Bhutan. After lunch, continue to Tsungney village to watch local artisans weaving the famous Bumthang fabric known as Yathra. Arrive to the Chokor Valley. Time permitting, search for treasures and bargains at Chamkhar Bazaar, an easy walk from your hotel. Yu-gharling Resort. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Buthmang and Festival. The festivities begin today as you head to the ongoing Thangbi Festival. Celebrated annually by the people of Jakar valley, this ancient religious festival serves as a spiritual revival and reminder of the connection between past, present, and future. Accompanied by blowing horns, booming drums, and clashing cymbals, monks and lay persons alike dress in brilliant costumes to perform spiritual dances and re-enact legendary events and moral vignettes in the courtyard of the Dzong. Crowds of people gather in their finest hand-woven dress, made of the brightly patterned cloth for which Bhutan is renowned, creating an intensely colorful and exciting atmosphere that had remained unchanged for centuries. Locals believe that dressing in their finest clothing is another form of offering to the deities that will bring them merit, luck and prosperity. After lunch, visit Kurjey Lhakhang, cross the suspension bridge to visit Padmasambhava Lhakhang, a 15th century meditation site and restored by the Grand Queen Mother of the present King. Continue your hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in the 16th century by Saint Pema Lingpa. Continue to the Konchogsum Lhakhang built in the 8th century, famous for its inscribed bell. (Dec 3 departure will participate in the festival all day.)

Sep 18, 2011 & May 5, 2012 departures will follow this itinerary: Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Bhutanese style—counter clockwise. Begin with a walk through the scattered villages at Kurjey Lhakhang, cross the suspension bridge to visit Padmasambhava Lhakhang, an 15th century meditation site and restored by the Grand Queen Mother of the present King. Continue your hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in the 16th century by Saint Pema Lingpa. Continue to the Konchogsum Lhakhang built in the 8th century, famous for its inscribed bell. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Bumthang & Punakha. After breakfast, drive through the scenic countryside to the Punakha , stopping along the way for tea and photos along the way. Meri Puensum Resort or similar. (B,L,D)

December 3 departure will follow this itinerary and overnight in Trongsa: After breakfast, visit Kurjey Lhakhang, cross the suspension bridge to visit Padmasambhava Lhakhang, a 15th century meditation site and restored by the Grand Queen Mother of the present King. Continue your hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in the 16th century by Saint Pema Lingpa. Continue to the Konchogsum Lhakhang built in the 8th century, famous for its inscribed bell. Continue to Trongsa for overnight. Yangkhil Resort or similar. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Punakha & Thimphu. This morning, travel back to Thimphu, stopping at the Dochula Pass for lunch. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check-in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the town or shop. Hotel Migmar or similar (B,L,D)

Sep 18, 2011 & May 5, 2012 departures: This evening, enjoy a Mock festival in a local home. See the Festival Mask dance performed to typical Bhutanese folk songs and rare Bhutanese musical instruments.

Day 12: Thimphu & Paro. After an early breakfast, depart for the spectacular Taktsang Monastery, a site believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan. The Monastery's moniker, which translates as "Tiger's Lair," refers to the tale of Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan and supposedly landed at this site on the back of a flying tiger. Completed in 1692, it perches on a cliff at 2,300 feet above the bottom of Paro valley. To view the monastery, you'll hike along a trail that climbs through a dense pine forest, where you'll see trees festooned with Spanish moss, and an occasional grove of fluttering prayer flags. After a light refreshments at a rest stop along the way, continue hiking until you clearly see the remains of this magnificent 17th century monastery that sits high atop a sheer rock cliff. Descend the trail for lunch at the cafeteria. After lunch, continue your hike back to the Paro Valley. Rest of the day free to explore the town. Janka Resort or similar (B,L,D)

Day 13: Paro & Bangkok. This morning your amazing Bhutanese journey comes to a close as you transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight to Bangkok, Thailand. Upon arrival, meeting by our representatives then transfer to your centrally located hotel for overnight. Dusit Thani Hotel (B)

Day 14: Bangkok/USA. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast then transfer to the airport to board your return flight to the USA via Taipei, arriving later this evening. Or take advantage of your already included airfare and extend your stay in Bangkok (B)

Bangkok Post-Tour Optional Extension

Why not take advantage of your already-included international airfare to extend your stay in Bangkok, Thailand's exotic bustling capital city. You'll return to the U.S. 2 days after the return dates shown above.

Day 14: Bangkok. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. The rest of the day is yours at leisure to take in your new surroundings and explore the city independently. Your hotel boasts a prime location within walking distance to many attractions. And with a metro stop located right outside the hotel's front door, you can travel easily and quickly to many other areas of the city. Dusit Thani Hotel (B)

Day 15: Bangkok. Enjoy the day at leisure to discover.

Day 16: Bangkok/USA. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast then transfer to the airport to board your return flight to the USA via Taipei, arriving later this evening.

Booking & Travel FAQs

Important Notes

• The high altitudes reached on this trip and the amount of walking involved, often on uneven terrain, requires that you be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the trip. We strongly suggest that you consult your physician regarding any concerns prior to making a reservation.
• Bhutan is among the most unique destinations on earth, and the staggering beauty and rich culture of this remote land make it truly worth visiting. However, while we have reserved the finest possible accommodations and modes of transportation on your behalf, the tourism infrastructure of Bhutan may not always match standards to which you are accustomed. Hotels are comfortable with basic amenities. Flights and ground transportation can be rather limited, occasionally causing delays or changes in the itinerary. We want you to have the best vacation ever, so when planning a trip to Bhutan, please consider and understand the difference in standards and cultures, which, if not expected, may cause some disappointment.
• Other factors, such as weather, tour conditions, and even your own physical ability, may also dictate itinerary changes either prior to departure or sometimes during the tour itself. We will do our utmost to make sure you visit all the necessary sights despite these possible changes. Your patience and understanding will be greatly appreciated by us and your Bhutanese hosts.

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