7DAYS BHUTAN HEAVENLY PACKAGE - NUSS · 2016-12-27 · accessible by crossing an iron bridge built...
Transcript of 7DAYS BHUTAN HEAVENLY PACKAGE - NUSS · 2016-12-27 · accessible by crossing an iron bridge built...
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
7DAYS BHUTAN HEAVENLY PACKAGE
NUSS PRIVATE TOUR ITINERARY 15 - 21 March, 2016
Bhutan’s culture is one of the oldest in the world and is carefully guarded, well preserved and permeates
every aspect of the life of a Bhutanese - evident and exemplified by the hundreds of sacred monasteries,
religious institutions, stupas, prayer flags and prayer wheels, and festivals all over Bhutan.
F A C T S:
Starts: In Paro
Ends: In Paro
Activities: Insights into Bhutanese culture, sightseeing and hiking
Maximum Altitude: 3,140m/10,362ft above sea level
I T I N E R AR Y:
Day 01: Arrive at Paro Airport. Half day sightseeing in Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu
Day 02: Sightseeing in Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu
Day 03: Drive to Punakha/Wangdue. Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue
Day 04: Sightseeing in Punakha/Wangdue. Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue
Day 05: Drive to Paro. Overnight in Paro
Day 06: Sightseeing in Paro. Overnight in Paro
Day 07: Depart from Paro Airport
H I G H L I G H T S:
Attend the Paro Festival
Visit the largest sitting Buddha in the world, heritage sights of fortresses and fertility temple
Hike the iconic Tiger’s Nest
Visit Farm House, cook and taste the Bhutanese cuisine with the family
Get your picture on the stamp to send to friends and families a post card
Dress up in Bhutanese dress and go for dinner in one of the happening restaurant in the city
Plant trees as a responsible tourists coming to Bhutan
Practice archery
Stroll & shop in the city
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
DAY 01 / Tues / 15 Mar 2016: ARRIVE AT PARO AIRPORT (L,D)
Thimphu - Altitude: 2,320m/7,656ft above sea level
As your plane approaches Bhutan, take in the scenic and breathtaking
views of the Himalayan Mountains. If weather permits, you will be able to
see Mt Everest (8,848m). After clearing customs, you will be met by your
representatives from Raven Tours & Trek. The drive from Paro Airport to
the capital city of Thimphu takes 1 hour 30 minutes.
Tamchhog Lhakhang: On the way to Thimphu, visit this temple -
accessible by crossing an iron bridge built by Thang Gyalpo of Tibet who
was responsible for building numerous iron bridges throughout Bhutan.
Kuenselcholing View Point: You get a good view of the Thimphu valley from this Buddha Point
(Kuensel Phodrang). Standing at 51.5m, it is the largest statue in the country.
Memorial Chorten (Stupa): This chorten was built in honour of the 3rd
king, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who is widely regarded as the father
of modern Bhutan.
Tashichho Dzong: This Fortress of Glorious Religion houses the
secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the King, and the
central monk body. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang
Namgyel (the leader who unified Bhutan in the 16th century).
Overnight in hotel in Thimphu
Day 02 / Wed / 16 Mar 2016: IN THIMPHU (B, L, D)
Talakha Monastery Hike: (9 km return / ascent 700 m / 4-5 hrs / rating: 3.1)
This stunning hike starts from Simtokha Dzong, the oldest Dzong in
Bhutan. The trail is up a ridge through blue pines and poplars. Talakha
monastery offers excellent views of Thimphu valley and the high
Himalayas. From here the urban sprawls of Thimphu far down below seem
a world away.
If it is a clear day you will be able to see the rounded cone of Jomolhari
peak, Bhutan’s most sacred mountain (7,314m), the sharp pinnacle of
Jichhu Drake (6,989m), Tsherem Gang (7,000m) and the Kanchenjunga
(8,589m) towering over the mountains of Paro and Haa. On an extremely
clear day you can look far into Nepal, where Makalu (8,481m) and possibly Mount Everest (8,848m) are
just visible against the western horizon. Further to the east of the high Himalayas the Black Mountains
range dominates the skyline.
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
Later, visits can be made to:
General Post Office of Bhutan: Get an insight into Bhutan through its stamps. Visit their Philatelic
Bureau for their beautiful, unique and wide range of stamps and philatelic products. Get a custom made
stamp with your picture and send a postcard to your friends and families from Bhutan.
Authentic Craft bazaar: The stalls carry a variety of high-end quality products from places across the
country such as wood carved national symbols, bags and western wears with touches of traditional
designs, wooden and clay utensils, Bangchung, Dhapa, key hanger of jewelry boxes, bookmarks and
handmade packing papers (Deysho) in different patterns, antique items etc. These are made by people
from villages across the country thereby any souvenirs you buy will directly or indirectly benefit the
under privilege.
Paper factory: The handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the
age old tradition originated in 8th
century of Bhutanese history. The
handmade paper constitutes as valuable National heritage of Bhutanese
cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The Traditional
paper is recognized and held high esteem both in home and outside world.
Before dinner we will go to a location whereby a tree will be planted as a
remembrance and a contribution to the environment and nature.
In the evening you will dress up in our Bhutanese dress and we will take you for a dinner with preferred
beverages in the hotel or in a famous restaurant with cultural show.
Overnight in hotel in Thimphu
DAY 03 / Thurs / 17 Mar 2016: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA/WANGDUE (B, L, D)
Punakha – Altitude: 1,350m/4,455ft above sea level
The 3 hour drive to Punakha/Wangdue involves crossing a pass known as
Dochula Pass (3,140m) from where a spectacular panoramic view of the
Himalayan mountain range can be seen, especially on clear winter days.
The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal
Chorten - 108 stupas built by the eldest Queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji
Wangmo Wangchuck.
Hike to Chimi Lhakhang: This Temple of fertility was built by Lam
Drukpa Kuenley (The Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about 30 minutes
hike across fields. Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four
corners of houses and phalluses are also painted on walls of houses as it is
the common belief that this helps drive away evil spirits.
Overnight in hotel in Punakha/Wangdue
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
DAY 04 / Fri 18 / Mar 2016: IN PUNAKHA/WANGDUE (B, L, D)
Kham Sum Yule Lhakhang: It was built by the Queen, Her Majesty
Ashi Tshering Pem Wangchuck for a successful reign of her son, the
present and 5th King His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck. It
took 8 years to build and was consecrated in December 1999. It’s about
45 minutes hike from the main road.
Punakha Dzong: Built by Zhabdrung in 1637, this fortress is located
between the rivers of Mo (Female) Chu (river) and Pho (Male) Chu. It
served as the capital city until the second king.
Then a short walk to see the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan.
After the visit of the Punakha Dzong, we will hike for 5 minutes to walk
on the longest suspension bridge that links a village with the paved road.
Punakha Nunnery: Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking
valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, is the school for nuns. The
temple complex houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre
for nuns where, apart from religious trainings, it provides life skills such
as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka painting.
Rinchengang Village: The ancient look of the houses built on a sliced
hilltop baring a dusty orange soil reminds travelers of the crowded mud
houses in Morocco or the one in Kabu, Afganisthan. It’s a 20 minute walk
up a gentle gradient and the village is famous for its masonry work.
Overnight in hotel in Punakha/Wangdue
DAY 05 / Sat / 19 Mar 2016: PUNAKHA/WANGDUE TO PARO (B, L, D)
Paro – Altitude: 2,280m/7,524ft above sea level
The drive to Paro is 4 hours.
Early morning drive to Paro to attend the opening ceremony of the Paro
Festival (Tshechu). The day begins with the famous mask dances.
Festivals in the Land Of Thunder Dragon are rich and happy expressions
of its ancient Buddhist culture. These festivals are held in all districts in
honor of Guru Rinpoche, the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in
the 8th
century. There is simply no better way of experiencing the colour,
passion and sheer vibrancy of Bhutan than by attending one of the
numerous religious festivals that take place throughout the year.
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
Tsechus are held on auspicious days and months in the Bhutanese calendar, and last up to four days in
which a series of highly stylized masked dance rituals are performed. Attendees adorned in colourful
dresses gather from far and wide, sporting exotic masks and taking part in the myriad events from games of
chance at the local fairs to elaborate mystic rituals. An experience not to be missed!
Ta Dzong: It served as a watch tower during the 17th century to guard the region from Tibetan invasions.
It was converted to the National Museum in 1968. It houses a fine collection of Bhutanese art, relics,
religious thangkas (thangkas are used to convey the visualization generated during meditation and were
made from Himalayan animal fibers), paintings, stuffed animals, arms
and ammunitions, and the country’s exquisite stamp collections.
Kichu Lhakhang: It is one of the two most sacred and the oldest
temples in Bhutan. It was built in 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen
Gampo. It is believed that he took the responsibility to built 108 temples
in the different regions of Tibet, Bhutan and in other Himalayan regions
to control evil spirits, disease and droughts out of which two of them are
in Bhutan.(Kichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in
Bumthang).
Overnight in hotel in Paro
DAY 06 / Sun 20 Mar 2016: IN PARO (B, L, D)
Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s nest): Bhutan’s most recognizable
cultural icon is perched 800m/2,640ft on a sheer cliff. It was tragically and
mysteriously consumed by fire in April 1998, but is now restored to its
former glory. It is believed that in the 8th century, the great tantric master
Guru Rimopche (2nd
Buddha) flew on the back of a tigress to the site
where the monastery now stands. The hike to and fro is 5-6 hours
(depending on your pace and fitness level). A horse can bring you up to
the monastery, part of the way. Normally it cost US$25/- per person but
you get this item with our compliments.
Farmhouse: Picturesque farm houses dot the valley amidst fields and hillsides. The two to three-storied
Bhutanese farm houses are handsome in appearance, with colorfully decorated outer walls and lintels, and
are traditionally built. A visit to a farm house gives an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of a farming
family. We will visit a family in their house in a village known as Gatana Farm House. You will be
welcomed in their traditional style, we will let you soak in a hot stone bath, learn to cook the traditional
Bhutanese food and dine with them.
We will also try out archery.Later stroll around the town and catch up on shopping or relax over a cup of
tea or coffee.
Overnight in hotel in Paro
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
DAY 07 / Mon / 21 Mar 2016: DEPART FROM PARO (B)
Early breakfast at the hotel and then the drive to the airport; your representatives from Raven Tours & Trek
will assist you with exit formalities and bid you farewell.
WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE
Roundtrip economy ticket on Druk Air (including airport taxes)
06night accommodation with breakfast
Lunch & dinner in local restaurants and hotels
Private transportation within Bhutan
Museums and Monuments entrance fees
Visa fee
Government Royalty/Tourism Development Fund
Experienced Tour Leader & Local Guide
YOUR ACCOMMODATION
LOCATION SUPERIOR HOTELS
Thimphu Dorji Elements
Punakha/Wangdue Lobesa Lodge or Meri Punesum Resort
Paro Tashi Namgay Resort or Rema Resort
YOUR CHECK LIST
Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
Have on you, one other picture ID (driving license or photocopy of passport), copy of air ticket, visa
MasterCard, Visa Credit and Debit Cards are accepted in Bhutan. However travellers cheque and some cash are highly recommended
Mobile phone, if your phone provider is from CELLULAR (USA) or AT&T (USA) operators, then it will work in Bhutan
163 tanglin rd #02-38 tanglin mall singapore 247993
tel + 65 6737 7677 • [email protected] • www.aveson.com.sg
HERITAGE TOURS • WELLNESS SPA • UNIQUE RESORTS
WHAT TO BRING
m jacket (preferably water proof) or rain coat
Hiking pants or skirts
Hiking/trekking boots
Socks for boots
Sneakers
Slippers
Backpack
Water bottle
Sunscreen for lips and face
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Walking stick
Binoculars
DRESS CODE FOR FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES AND TEMPLES
Shirt (half or full sleeve)
Full length pants/long skirts
Shoes with socks (some areas require the removal of shoes)
No hats, umbrellas, slippers, t-shirts, short skirts and half-pants, tying of jackets at waist
Photographs are allowed in the courtyards only
APPROXIMATE TEMPERATURE DURING YOUR VISIT In March 2016:
Max: 25 degree Celsius Min: 10 degree Celsius
NUSS/if141015