Glimpse of Bhutan

Glimpse of Bhutan

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5 Days From

$1994

Glimpse of Bhutan

5 Days Starting and ending in Paro, Bhutan

Visiting: Thimphu, Punakha, Paro

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur278

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

Moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1994

NB: Prices correct on 03-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the "Glimpse of Bhutan" tour, where you'll explore the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting kingdom. Begin your adventure in Paro, visiting the National Museum and the historic Paro Dzong, before heading to the capital, Thimphu. Here, you'll discover traditional Bhutanese art, rural life, and sacred sites like the Memorial Chorten and Changangkha Lhakhang. Travel through the breathtaking Dochula Pass to Punakha, where you'll experience a special temple prayer ritual. Enjoy a scenic hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten and visit the ancient Punakha Dzong. Conclude your journey back in Paro, leaving with memories of Bhutan's serene landscapes and warm hospitality.

Highlights

  • Explore Paro's National Museum of Bhutan and uncover the rich cultural heritage it houses

  • Discover Bhutan's cultural core in Thimphu, witnessing the charm of its traditional heritage

  • Engage in a temple prayer ritual fostering health and longevity for a spiritually enriching experience

  • Experience Bhutan's National Sport Archery, and immerse yourself in this cultural tradition

  • Embark on a Punakha trek to Khamsum Namgyal Temple for a captivating hiking experience

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Tue: Paro – Thimphu (-/-/D)

Location: Thimphu

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Thimphu

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival in Paro, you will be met by our representative. The flight into Paro is one of the most spectacular in the world. On arrival, you can expect 3 gifts from Bhutan: the first is cool, clean, and fresh air, the second is a warm and friendly welcome, the third is a breathtaking view of the enchanting Paro Valley. After lunch, you will visit the National Museum of Bhutan where you will have time to admire the museums collection of rare Bhutanese artifacts and art, traditional weavings, and other eclectic pieces. You will then be taken to visit the Paro Dzong, a historic fortress that now houses the government administration offices and the district Monastic Body. In the evening you will be transferred to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.




Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Wed: Thimphu (B/L/D)

Location: Thimphu

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Thimphu

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you will visit the National Library – a stately building in the traditional Bhutanese style that boasts precious and religious manuscripts written in gold. After stopping at the Institute for Zorig Chosum — a school where the traditional style of Thangka painting is taught — you will visit the Folk Heritage Museum, where you will learn about rural Bhutanese life. After lunch, sightseeing will start with a visit to the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built-in 1974 in honor of the 3rd King, His Late Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The stupa is one of the most elegant masterpieces built in the 20th century, with detailed religious wall paintings and sculptures. Afterwards, you will visit the 14th-century Changangkha Lhakhang, which is also a focus of daily worship for many Thimphu residents. You will stop at Sangaygang — the viewpoint or “Lovers Point,” where young couples come to enjoy a birds eye view of the Thimphu valley — before visiting the Dupthob Lhakhang, a nunnery that has more than 70 practicing nuns. The last stop of the day will be at the Handicrafts Emporium, where you will have the chance to shop for local souvenirs.




Overnight in Thimphu

Day 3: Thu: Thimphu — Punakha (B/L/D)

Location: Punakha

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Punakha

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will be transferred to Punakha — the ancient capital of Bhutan. The drive will take you across Dochula Pass (3100 m), which is marked by a large Bhutanese style Chorten (a sacred structure), 108 small choetens and prayer flags. If the weather is clear, you may enjoy breathtaking views of the high peaks of the Eastern Himalayas before passing down through magnificent pine and rhododendron forests into Punakha. Upon arrival, you may check into your hotel and enjoy a local lunch. In the afternoon, as a special treat, we might visit a private temple built by Lama Serpo (96 years old now) and enjoy a brief audience with this extraordinary Lama and experience a long-life blessing (depending on the schedule of the Lama).




Overnight in Punakha

Day 4: Fri: Punakha — Paro (B/L/D)

Location: Paro

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Paro

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, you can enjoy a guided hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten, built-in 1994 by Her Majesty Azhi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck for the well-being of the people and the country. This is a moderate hike through rice paddies and pine forests that will take about 45 minutes one way. The views of the valley from the Choeten are magnificent. You will then visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan, before enjoying lunch in Khuruthang town. After lunch, you will be transferred to Paro, where you can spend your evening at leisure.




Overnight in Paro

Day 5: Sat: Paro (B/-/-)

Location: Paro

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to the airport. Our local representative will help with check-in formalities and bid you farewell.

What's Included

  • 04 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable accommodation for 4 nights on a twin sharing basis at the listed hotels or similar.

  • Full board meal plan

    All meals are included throughout the tour.

  • All Transportation in an AC private vehicle

    Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned private vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing.

  • Arrival & departure airport transfers

    Convenient airport transfers upon arrival and departure.

  • Fully licensed, English-speaking guide

    Benefit from the expertise of a fully licensed, English-speaking guide.

  • All Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Enjoy all sightseeing activities as outlined in the itinerary.

  • All Entrance fees as per the itinerary

    All entrance fees for attractions mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Government royalties and taxes

    All government royalties and taxes are covered.

  • Local taxes and service charges

    All local taxes and service charges are included.

What's Not Included

  • Items of personal nature, tips & gratuities

    Expenses of a personal nature, including tips and gratuities, are not included.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees are not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Optional tours

    Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended.

  • International round-trip airfare

    International round-trip airfare to and from Bhutan is not included.

  • All items not mentioned as included

    Any items or services not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

All transportation is provided in an air-conditioned private vehicle, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy 4 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring a restful stay throughout your journey in Bhutan.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 04 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes a full board meal plan, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    All transportation during the tour is provided in an air-conditioned private vehicle.

  • Is there an English-speaking guide available during the tour?

    Yes, a fully licensed, English-speaking guide will be available throughout the tour.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers are included in the tour package.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees as per the itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes visits to the National Museum of Bhutan, Paro Dzong, National Library, Institute for Zorig Chosum, Folk Heritage Museum, Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Sangaygang viewpoint, Dupthob Lhakhang, Handicrafts Emporium, and a guided hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Punakha?

    In Punakha, you will visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan, and enjoy a guided hike to Khamsum Yuelay Namgyal Chorten.

  • Is there any special cultural experience included in the tour?

    Yes, you might visit a private temple built by Lama Serpo and experience a long-life blessing, depending on the Lama's schedule.

  • What is the significance of the Dochula Pass during the tour?

    The Dochula Pass, at 3100 meters, is marked by a large Bhutanese style Chorten, 108 small choetens, and prayer flags. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the high peaks of the Eastern Himalayas.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Prices last published on 02-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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