Thimphu Festival + Essential Bhutan, 14th – 20th September 2024 (6 Nights, 7 Days)
6 Nights, 7 Days
- Trip Date: 14th - 20th September 2024
- Group Size Maximum: Not More Than 7 People
- Package Cost: US$ 1622 Per Person (Does Not Include Air Ticket)
- Room: Shared Twin or Single Occupancy (USD45 Supplement for Single Occupancy)
This 6-night, 7-day journey through Bhutan will takes you from the urban sophistication of Thimphu to the historic splendor of Punakha, the serene beauty of Phobjikha Valley, and the spiritual heights of the Tiger’s Nest, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the heart and soul of Bhutan.
Your adventure begins in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, where tradition and modernity live in harmony. Spend your first day soaking in the atmosphere of a local festival, where the air is filled with the vibrant colors of traditional costumes, the rhythmic beats of dance, and the rich heritage of Bhutanese culture.
Beyond the festival in Thimphu, you will visit Punakha, where the majestic Punakha Dzong awaits. This fortress, a marvel of Bhutanese architecture, stands at the confluence of two rivers, embodying the country’s spiritual and historical depth. The journey itself offers breathtaking views, transitioning from the urban scenery to tranquil valleys that promise peace and reflection.
Next, we venture to the Phobjikha Valley, a tranquil expanse that feels paused in time. This day is dedicated to nature hikes and forest therapy, immersing you in the valley’s serene beauty. Phobjikha is also the winter home of the endangered Black-necked Cranes, offering a rare opportunity to witness these majestic birds. The valley’s untouched wilderness invites you to connect deeply with nature, fostering a sense of inner peace.
The trip with end with the Tiger’s Nest monastery. The ascent to this cliffside sanctuary is both a physical and spiritual journey, culminating in panoramic views that stir the soul.
This 6-night, 7-day journey through Bhutan leaves you with a deep appreciation for a land where happiness is a way of life, promising memories that will last a lifetime.
THIMPHU FESTIVAL + ESSENTIAL BHUTAN – THE ITINERARY
Day 1 – 14th September 2024: Land in Paro. Transfer to Thimphu (1 hrs). After resting for a while, we will go check out the Farmer’s Market, Crafts Market and other points of interests. Nightlife (Optional)
Hotel: Namgay Heritage (4 Star)
Day 2 – 15th September 2024: Thimphu Festival and after lunch, drive to Punakha (2 hrs) via Dochula Pass. On the way to Punakha we will do the easy hike to Lungchutse (1 hour up and 1 hour down).
Hotel: Mendrelgang Heritage Home (Boutique)
Day 3 – 16th September 2024: Starting the day with a short hike to Khamsum Chorten. We will visit the majestic Punakha Dzong and walk the Suspension Bridge. Drive to Gaselo Eco Lodge.
Hotel: Gaselo Eco Lodge (A Small Rural Lodge)
Day 4 – 17th September 2024: Today we do a day excursion to Phobjikha (2 hrs). Gangtey Monastery and Gangtey Nature Hike and return to Wangdue in the evening.
Hotel: Gaselo Eco Lodge (A Small Rural Lodge)
Day 5 – 18th September 2024: We will do a short hike though villages and farm fields. Visit Gaselo School. Interact with locals. Play archery. To Paro (3 hrs) via Chhimmi Lhakhang.
Hotel: Tashi Namgay Resort
Day 6 – 19th September 2024: Rise early and start the hike to the Tiger’s Nest (1.5 hours up and 1 hour down). Experience Hot Stone Bath (Optional). Stroll/Shopping in Paro town.
Hotel: Tashi Namgay Resort
Day 7 – 20th September 2024:Bid Bhutan farewell and catch a flight to your next destination.
PACKAGE COVERS/INCLUDE:
*The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD100 goes towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector. This includes offsetting the carbon footprint of tourists and up skilling workers in the travel industry.
Package Covers:
- Hotel rooms at the mentioned hotels/resorts
- Three meals (at hotels and local restaurants of your choice)
- Comfortable travel vehicle and certified travel guide, throughout the tour
- SDF/Royalty of USD100 per person per night
- Entrance fees, Cooking Class And Hoist a Prayer flag
PACKAGE DOES NOT COVER/INCLUDE:
While the above package covers all travel expenses and you will not need to pay a penny extra, the following is not covered in the package:
- Alcoholic beverages at hotels/restaurants
- Food and beverages at luxury hotels and restaurants
- Shopping and tips for guide and driver
- Hot Stone Bath, Cycling, Weaving Class & Horse Riding
- Air Ticket
Breathe Bhutan being a quality and standard oriented entity; what we want our guest to take back is an expression, which defines who we are.
- Hotels: We are very picky with where we keep our guests. The hotels we pick are hotels we personally like and which are also highly reviewed by our former guests. The three star hotels and accommodations we recommend are mostly family run and they not only provide excellent service but they also have something special in each one of them.
- Water: We do not charge for the unlimited mineral water supply. As a company, we are environmentally conscious and we are currently working on a way to reduce the use of single use plastic bottles.
- Meals: Unlike other tour operators, we do not dictate what you should eat and where you should eat. Our guides will always ask your mood for food and take you to appropriate restaurants. If you are eating your meals at the hotel, you do not necessarily have to eat from the buffet; you have the option to order from the menu.
- Guides: We are very selective with the tour guides we work with. They are highly experienced, humble and always ready to go out of their way to keep the guest happy.
- Vehicles: While traveling Bhutan, you will have to do a lot of vehicle travel and a comfortable vehicle is important. For one and two people in the group, we only assign four-wheel SUV vehicles and they will not be older than 4 years. For more than two people, we use Toyota Hi Ace High Roof Travel Vans and have to be new or else in great condition.
- Nightlife in Thimphu: If you are someone who like live music or like to taste local beer and whiskey, we always take you to Mojo Park (a live music club) in Thimphu and we cover all expenses. Mojo Park is a great place to check out the nightlife culture in Bhutan, especially on the weekends.
- Others: You need to visit to unlock the other surprises.