BHUTAN THE LAST SHANGRI-LA APRIL 12-26, 2019 TOUR LEADER: JUDY TENZING

Overview Little has changed over the centuries in the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan, perched among the pristine forests and snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas. Only at the time of the present King’s father’s coronation (1974) was the first trickle of foreigners permitted to enter. It still remains an isolated land and the present King is keen to preserve its rich historic customs and cultural traditions, memorably expressed in its architecture – mountain-top monasteries, Buddhist temples and traditional villages – as well as in its textiles and its hardy and proud people. Its history is a capsule of all that is mystical about the Himalaya; re-incarnate rulers who used black magic to defeat Tibetan aggressors, lama-saints who foretold the future and fought demons opposed to the spread of Buddhism, civil wars between powerful district governors, known as penlops, who laid plot and counter-plot in an endless cycle of strife and assassinations. Our 12-day tour takes you across the country at a gentle pace, visiting remote mountain monasteries, examining local arts and crafts and marvelling at the scenery with visits to the dzongs and villages. This remote corner of the Himalaya can be unpredictable and will be a challenging adventure to a place only just emerging into the twenty-first century. Come with an open mind and the willingness to appreciate Bhutan as it is and you will be afforded a rare and wonderful experience.

Your tour leader Judy Tenzing has a lifelong passion for travel and over 30 years’ experience as a tour leader on the sub-continent and in Asia. Judy has a degree in South Asian History and has regularly presented courses at Sydney University’s Centre for Continuing Education on the history and culture of this remarkable region. Bhutan has always been a special destination for her – its unique combination of stunning natural beauty, a rich and ancient culture plus an attitude to the modern world,

and Bhutan’s place in it, that makes most first world nations stand up and take notice. Being tucked away at the far eastern end of the great Himalaya, Bhutan remained isolated from the outside world until the 1970s and even then, trod a very careful path towards emergence from this isolation in ensuing decades. The monarchy and the new parliamentary government have maintained a clear focus on protecting and preserving Bhutan’s rich Mahayana Buddhist culture as well as its thriving art, textiles and architectural heritage. This strong sense of national identity permeates every town and village in Bhutan and ensures that all Bhutanese understand and appreciate the importance of maintaining Bhutan’s extraordinary natural and cultural environment. Feedback from Judy’s Bhutan March 2017 tour: “We found the tour a wonderful experience. Judy and the two local guides (plus one fabulous driver) were all excellent. We particularly enjoyed Judy’s lectures – she was very willing to share her knowledge of Bhutan. Many thanks to everyone for a great trip.”

BHUTAN THE LAST SHANGRI-LA

Tour dates: April 12-26, 2019

Tour leader: Judy Tenzing

Tour Price: $10,475 per person, twin share

Single Supplement: $1,620 for sole use of double room

Booking deposit: $500 per person

Recommended airline: Qantas

Maximum places: 20

Itinerary: Bangkok (1 night), Paro (5 nights), Thimphu (3 nights), Punakha (3 nights), Gangtey (2 nights)

Date published: April 27, 2018

Enquiries and bookings

For further information and to secure a place on this tour please contact Jamal Fairbrother at Academy Travel on 9235 0023 or 1800 639 699 (outside Sydney) or email jamal@academytravel.com.au

Tour Highlights

TIGERS NEST The remarkable architecture of Tigers Nest Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous and photogenic site, perched on the side of what appears to be a sheer vertical cliff, 3000 ft above the Paro Valley. Explore the four main temples that form part of the thirteen tigers lair caves founded by Guru Rinpoche after flying from Tibet on the back of a soaring tigress.

MOUNTAINS AND VALLEYS Admire glorious mountain scenery and the towering snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalaya rising over 7000 metres. Traverse the spectacular zigzag roadway over the dramatic 3000-metre-high Dochu-La Pass between Thimphu and Punakha, passing the 108 memorial stupas built under the patronage of the Queen Mother. Descend into the remote and splendid Phobjikja Valley in central Bhutan.

PUNAKHA DZONG The vast and magnificent Punakha Dzong or ‘Palace of great bliss’, one of the most spectacular buildings in Asia. Arguably, the most beautiful Dzong in the country, especially in Spring when the lilac-coloured Jacaranda trees contrast with the imposing whitewashed walls. The Dzong served as the capital and seat of government until the 1950’s and has seen the coronation of all Bhutan’s Kings.

THE HAPPIEST NATION ON EARTH Enjoy meeting the warm-hearted people of Bhutan: archers farmers and artists going about their daily lives while preserving the ancient culture and traditions that are unique to the Bhutanese Kingdom. Revel in the unique legacy of a national government that measures it people’s collective happiness by emphasizing harmony with nature and traditional values expressed by the four pillars of Gross National Happiness.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF BHUTAN Interpret the history and culture of Bhutan through the exhibits of Bronze sculpture, precious painting, weaponry and historic textiles housed at the National Museum in Paro. Explore a rich variety of artefacts from all over the country and dating from as early as 4000 BC showing the Bhutan’s transition from the Stone Age to a modern Mahayanist Buddhist and multicultural.

Detailed itinerary Included meals are shown with the symbols B, L and D.

Friday 12 April Bangkok

The tour commences in Bangkok at the Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. Current Druk Air schedules make a pre-tour stay at Bangkok Airport impossible to avoid.

saturday 13 april bangkok to paro

Our Druk Air flight departs for Paro early this morning. After some time to settle in and a hearty lunch we visit the imposing Paro Dzong also known as Rinpung Dzong which means ‘fortress on a heap of jewels’, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal. Housed in the Dzong’s ancient watchtower is the Paro Museum (Ta Dzong), which houses a wonderful collection of art, armoury and weaponry and textiles and is a beautifully maintained showcase of Bhutanese history. Dzongs are large monastery forts which dominate every major town in Bhutan. They are the administrative and religious centres of the district and were once the mainstay of each district’s defences against invading Tibetans and, often, rival Bhutanese clans. The evening, like most in Bhutan, is free to relax and enjoy some real Bhutanese hospitality with our welcome dinner. Overnight Paro (L, D)

sunday 14 april in paro

Today we visit the far reaches of the Paro valley and the ruined monastery/fortress of Drugyel Dzong. The dzong was destroyed by fire early in the 20th century. However, it is an interesting coincidence that the destruction of the fortress occurred around the time when the Governor of Paro was opposing the Tongsa Penlop, who eventually became installed as the first hereditary ruler of Bhutan. On a clear day views of the 7326m snow domed peaks of sacred Mt Chomolhari can be seen. On the way back from Drugyel we stop at the famous Tiger's Nest, or Taktsang Monastery, which is perched some 600m up on a cliff overlooking the Paro valley and is said to be the spot where the legendary Indian saint, Guru Padmasambhawa, flew from Tibet on the back of a tiger to defeat five demons who were opposing the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan. Tragically damaged by fire in 1998, it has now been restored to its former glory. Overnight Paro (B, L, D)

Above: Rinpung Dzong has served as a monastery, fortress and meeting hall for the National Assembly. The watchtower houses the Paro Museum with over 3000 works of Bhutanese art Below: An intricate wall painting depicting the Buddhist wheel of life adorns the entrance to the Paro Museum

Tour start & finish time

The tour starts on Friday 12 April at 6.00pm, at the Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel, Bangkok. The tour ends on Friday 26 April, with a flight to Bangkok from Paro.

Above: Prayer wheels at Kyichu Lhakhang containing mantras await pilgrims to spin them accumulating wisdom and good karma Below: Tashichho Dzong in the North of Thimphu was the site of the formal coronation of the fifth king in 2008; drive over the Dochu La Pass with the spectacular peaks of the eastern Himalaya in the background

monday 15 april in paro

Today we visit a textile weaving centre in Paro. There will also be time for some local walks as well as a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most beautiful temples. This temple was originally constructed in the 7th century as a geomantic temple and is today one of the most sacred shrines in the kingdom. The orange tree outside is said to bear fruit all year round. Overnight Paro (B, L, D)

tuesday 16 april to thimphu

After breakfast we take the 90-minute drive to the least-visited of all the Himalayan capitals, Thimphu. The road twists its way gradually up and into the broad Thimphu Valley. The first large monastery fortress we pass in the valley is Simtokha Dzong and like many of these large castles was built by the first ruler of Bhutan, Nawang Namgyal in1629. On arrival we have lunch then take an orientation walk through the bustling township. Overnight Thimphu (B, L, D)

wednesday 17 april in thimphu

Our day begins with a visit to the Tashichho Dzong, the Monastic and civil centre of Bhutan. The dzong houses the Royal Chamber, the ministries of government and a school for young monks. It is also the summer headquarters of the Je Khempo, Bhutan’s Head Abbot and head of the religious Drukpa Kagyupa school. The original dzong was destroyed by fire in 1772. When the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorje Wangchuk made Thimphu his capital, he rebuilt the dzong using traditional methods. This became the seat of government and was completed in 1969. We also visit the Textile Museum, the Heritage Museum and, time permitting, the thangkha painting centre. Overnight Thimphu (B, L, D)

thursday 18 april in THimphu

Today is free to see more of the local sights or wander the street stalls and get a real feel for daily life in the bustling Himalayan capital. Overnight Punakha (B, L, D)

friday 19 april to Punakha

After breakfast today, we depart Punakha, the old winter capital of the Bhutanese monarchs and clergy. Leaving Thimphu the road climbs via a series of zigzags over the spectacular Dochu La Pass at 3,000m. On a clear day panoramic views can be had of the eastern Himalaya, including Bhutan's highest mountain, Gangkar Punsum (7,550m). The road drops down through varied forests, finally emerging into the highly-cultivated Punakha valley. The main monastery/fortress was the power base for the old system of re-incarnating rulers. The remains of

the original ruler of Bhutan, Nawang Namgyal, are kept in a small room at the top of the highest tower and only the king and the head of the monastic order, the Je Khempo, are allowed to enter this room. We have lunch on arrival before a visit to the dzong and a short walk through the paddy fields to Chimi Lhakhang, a monastery built by Lama Drukpa Kunley (also known as the Divine Madman) with a most colourful history, which is a short walk through the paddy fields. Overnight Punakha (B, L, D)

Saturday 20 April in punakha

Today is at leisure to take in more of the local sights, enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river and enjoy this pristine and beautiful valley. Overnight Gangtey (B, L, D)

Sunday 21 April to gangtey

Today we drive for four to five hours to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, a stunning glacial valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountains. It is also one of the most important wildlife reserves in the country and the seasonal home of the rare black-necked crane, which spends winters in this serene valley. We may also be lucky enough to see muntjaks (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes – all native to this region. Gangtey Gompa sits on top of a conical hill in the middle of the valley with the small township nestling at its feet. Overnight Gangtey (B, L, D)

Monday 22 April in gangtey

Today we visit the Black Crane Information Centre and take a short nature walk in the valley. Then there will be time to simply relax and wander the village and soak up this special time in this exquisite and remote Himalayan valley. Overnight Gangtey (B, L, D)

Tuesday 23 April return to Punakha

We retrace our steps to Punakha where we will have an overnight stay. Overnight Paro (B, L, D)

Wednesday 24 April drive to PAro

This morning we head back to Paro and spend a leisurely evening in this beautiful valley. Overnight Paro (B, L, D)

Thursday 25 April At leisure in PAro

A day free today to wander into Paro town, take a walk along the river and just take time out to soak up the magic of this extraordinary place. For those who wish to try a traditional hot stone bath we can arrange this on this afternoon in Paro. Our

Above: Young novices study in the grounds of Chimi Lhakang where the founding monk is said to have subdued a demon in a rock with his magic thunderbolt of wisdom Below: The black-necked crane visit the Phobjikha Valley in large numbers where they are revered and protected by the Bhutanese; the large buttressed walls of the Paro Dzong and the traditional wooden covered bridge spanning the Paro River

last evening in Bhutan will feature some local dancers and musicians who will offer us songs which are centuries old and reflect the rich artistic traditions still very much alive in Bhutan. Overnight Punakha (B, L, D)

Friday 26 April departure

This morning we transfer to Paro airport for the Druk Air flight to Bangkok, departing mid-morning. (B)

Hotels Hotels on this tour have been handpicked by Judy Tenzing for their location and charm. Not all are defined by their star rating but instead are chosen for their surroundings and welcoming atmosphere. All are clean and comfortable, many with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Bangkok, Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport (1 night)

www.novotelairportbkk.com

Paro, Olathang Hotel (3 nights) Thimphu, Zhiwa Ling Ascent (3 nights)

www.zhiwalingascent.com

Punakha, Zhingkham Resort Hotel (3 nights) Gangtey, Dewachen Resort (2 nights)

www.dewachenhotel.com

Paro, Zhiwa Ling (2 nights) www.zhiwaling.com

Weather on Tour April is considered the most beautiful time of the year with generally clear weather and all the mountain flowers in bloom. Expect temperatures of 10 to 20 degrees on most days. There is a chance of rain while we are in Thimphu but the rest of the country should remain dry at this time of year.

Images right: masked dancers perform at the annual festival of tshechu held at Rinpung Dzong during the second month of the traditional Bhutanese lunar calendar usually in March or April; a wise soul in traditional costume and prayer flags are

seen fluttering in the breeze all throughout Bhutan

Tour Price The tour price is $10,475 per person, twin share (land content only). The supplement for a single room is $1,620 per person. A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required to secure a place on the tour.

Tour Inclusions

Included in the tour price

13 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected hotels in Bhutan

All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in Bhutan 1 night’s accommodation at the Novotel Bangkok

Suvarnabhumi Airport Return international flights from Bangkok to Paro Services of tour leader from Bangkok to departure from

Paro Services of an English-speaking Bhutanese guide Background talks and tour notes Land travel throughout by air-conditioned coach All entrance fees to sites mentioned in itinerary All tips to local guides, drivers and restaurants Porterage of one piece of luggage at all hotels Visa costs for Australian passport holders Tourism development fee in Bhutan

Not included

International air fares, taxes and surcharges (see below) Travel insurance Meals not mentioned in itinerary Expenses of a personal nature

Air travel OPTIONS The tour price quoted is for land content only. For this tour we recommend Qantas or Thai Airlines which offers daily flights into and out of Bangkok from most Australian cities. Druk Air is the only airline authorised to fly into and out of Bhutan. Please contact us for further information on competitive economy, business and first class airfares.

Enquiries & bookings For further information and to secure a place on this tour please contact Jamal Fairbrother at Academy Travel on 9235 0023 or 1800 639 699 (outside Sydney) or email jamal@academytravel.com.au

Fitness Requirements of THIS tour

GRADE THREE

It is important both for you and for your fellow travellers that you are fit enough to be able to enjoy all the activities on this tour. To give you an indication of the level of physical fitness required to participate on our tours, we have given them a star grading. Academy Travel’s tours tend to feature extended walking tours and site visits, which require greater fitness than coach touring. We ask you to carefully consider your ability to meet the physical demands of the tour.

Participation criteria for this tour This Grade Three tour is among our most physically demanding. To participate on this tour, you should be able to comfortably undertake up to seven hours per day, over several days. Activities may include travelling long distances, walking on difficult terrain, climbing stairs, embarking and disembarking trains and/or boats, exposure to varying altitudes and long days of touring. These tours may include one night stops and early starts.

You should be able to: keep up with the group at all times walk for 5-7 kilometres at a moderate pace with only

short breaks stand for a reasonable length of time in galleries and

museums tolerate varying climatic conditions a reasonable level of physical and respiratory fitness tolerate a diet that can be significantly different from a

typical Australian diet, and where some dietary requirements cannot be met

walk up and down slopes negotiate steps and slopes on archaeological sites or

mountain paths, which are often uneven and unstable get on and off a large coach with steep steps, train or

boat unassisted, possibly with luggage move your luggage a short distance if required

A note for older travellers We regret that we are not able to accept bookings on a Grade Three tours from people more than 80 years old, or with restricted mobility.