Day 3: Flight to Paro and Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan

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Bhutan Adventure2018 /

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Itinerary

Discover an ancient Himalayan kingdom, closed off from the world for centuries and shrouded in myth and legend. Walk through valleys under soaring peaks, along roaring rivers to ancient temples and dzong fortresses, where traditional beliefs and ways of life remain unaffected by the modern world.

Day 1: Depart UK

Day 2: Arrive Kathmandu

After an afternoon arrival, we transfer to Kathmandu where we have time to relax and explore a little.

Accommodation: Hotel Malla (1 night) (Meals included: dinner)

Day 3: Flight to Paro and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan

We transfer to the airport for a spectacular flight to Paro. On a clear morning it is possible to see Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks.

Upon arrival in Paro we drive through hamlets following the Paro and Thimphu rivers to the capital, Thimphu. This is perhaps the most tranquilcapital city in the world. It is located in a beautiful valley fanning out from the ThimphuChuu River and is home to the revered Bhutanese royal family and the royal government. All buildings are required by law to be designed in traditional style with Buddhist paintings and motifs. Depending on our flight times, we may have time to explore Thimphu and visit the Takin Sanctuary. If this is not possible today, we will try to fit this in tomorrow.

Accommodation: Peaceful Resort or similar (3 nights) (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 4: Thimphu

This morning we take a short walk to Tango Monastery, situated north of Thimphu.The walk is approx one hour each way through shaded rhododendron forests to reach the monastery. (1.5m/2.5km)

This monastery was founded by Lama GyalwaLhanangpa in the 12th century and the present building was built in the 15th century by the "Divine Madman", Lama DrukpaKunley. The picturesque three-storey tower and several surrounding buildings were built in the 18th century by the eighth Desi, DrukRabgye and ShabdrungJigmeChhogyel added the golden roof in the 19th century.

This afternoon we’ll visit the Folk Heritage Museumwhich houses different tools, materials, objects, equipments and artefacts from rural Bhutanese households and gives a good insight of the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle.

The National Library of Bhutan was first established in 1967 under the patronage of HM Queen AshiPhuntsoChoden (1911–2003), with a small collection of precious texts. The library holds a representative collection of English and western language books mainly related to the Himalayas, Bhutan and Buddhism.

We also plan to visit TashichhoDzong: arguably Bhutan's most stately and impressive building. It has traditionally been the seat of the Drukdesi or ‘Dharma Raja’, the head of Bhutan's civil government, an office which has been combined with the kingship since the creation of the monarchy in 1907, and summer capital of the country. It houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and is the summer residence of the venerated monastic community.Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 5: Thimphu

Today’s walk takes us toPhadojing Monastery. Phajoding takes its name from the saint PhajoDrugomZhigpo, who meditated there in the 13th century and is considered to be one of the most sacred meditational sites in Bhutan. The monastery itself is an open complex that comprises many holy buildings and relics and a State monastic school that currently houses 40 monks.

The trek to Phajoding is an uphill climb through forested area of blue pine, fir and spruce. It takes around four hours walk on a leisurely pace. Phajoding provides an excellent view of Thimphu Valley and is also a retreat center for monks and nuns. You can visit some ancient monasteries and commune with the monks.(Walk approx 4 hours)

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 6: Thimphu & to Punakha

(approx 77km, 3 hrs)

This morning we take a walk around Thimphu, visiting the handicraft stores and the Arts & Craft School where students are trained in the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. We visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honour of the late King JigmeDorjiWangchuk, the Father of Modern Bhutan. Built in Tibetan style, it has numerous religious paintings. Thecomplex tantric statues here reflect the peaceful and wrathful aspect of Buddhist deities. We see locals here spinning prayer wheels for good karma.

We drive to the Punakha valley via Dochula pass (3,200m/10,499ft). Weather permitting, there can be great views of the Eastern Himalayan range from here. There are also 108 stupas donated by the Queen for the wellbeing of the country. En route there will be a hike through a small village to ChimiLakhang, to the “Divine Madman” Temple. The site is still believed to hold fertility power for women who want to conceive (Distance: 2.5 miles/4km. Ascent/ descent: 384ft /117m)

We arrive in Punakha this afternoon. Punakha served as Bhutan’s capital for over 300 years and is dominated by the impressive PunakhaDzong, one of Bhutan’s most important buildings.

Accommodation: MeriPhuensum or similar (2 nights)(Meals included:breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 7: Punakha valley

Today, we drive to Kabisa for a four hour hike to KhamsungYuelleyNamgyalStupa. From the viewpoint at the majestic temple, we can see the Mochu river valley. This is a moderately easy hike through rice fields and picturesque untouched landscape. After descending from the temple, we follow our path down the valley through rice fields and the small villages of Soneagasa (Distance: 3.5 miles/5.5km. Ascent/descent: 918ft/ 280m).

After lunch we visit the PunakhaDzong, built in1637, the winter residence of the monk body. It is situated in a stunning position where two rivers, the Pho-chu (male) and the Mo-chu (female) join together.

PunakhaDzong has been restored to its full glory and is replete with traditional carvings and colourful paintings in perfect condition.

If time permits, we’ll also explore Punakha town.

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 8: Drive to Haa Valley

(Approx 5 hours drive, 185km)

Today we leave Punakha for the Haa valley. We cross Chele La Pass, the highest pass on the Bhutanese Highway. On a clear day, the top of the pass offers spectacular views of the sacred Mt. Jhomolhari and Jitchu Drake.

Haa Valley, often known as the ‘Hidden-Land Rice Valley’ is one of the most picturesque places in Bhutan with great views, dramatic scenery and cultural interaction.

According to the legend, before the 8th century, animist tradition was very significant in the Haa valley. The tantric master Padmasambhava visited the valley in the 8th century and transformed some blood sacrificing animist beliefs into peaceful Buddhist traditions. Once animist forces were hostile and subdued, there were made guardians of the land. Some elements of this belief system still exist in form of festivals and rituals.

Accommodation: Risum Resort, Haa, (2nights)

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 9: Haa Valley

We explore the area with an out and back hike from Haa town to Juneydrak Hermitage. The walk is through rhododendron forest with fine views. The cliff-side retreat contains a footprint of MachenLabdrom (1055 -1132), a female Tibetan tantric practitioner. If there is no one meditating inside the temple then we can go in and take a look at the footprint. If monks are meditating in the Hermitage you will not be able to go in, but it is a lovely walk and there is a beautiful view back towards Haa valley from the temple.

The walk will take approximately 3 hours and due to the location of the retreat, may not be suitable for people suffering with vertigo.

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 10: To Paro

Today we drive back to Paro (approx 2 hours), where we’ll have time to explore the town.

After lunch we take a walk, winding through the pine forests to the tranquillity of Tse-tho monastery. We continue to explore the Dzongdrakha. This unusual village is built precariously on a rock face. We are welcomed by beautiful views of the Bondey village and the valley below. The numerous temples we can see are home to most of the men in the village. The majority of men are monks or gomchens (lay monks). It is the women who you see here working in the fields, a different scene from elsewhere in the country

(Distance: 2.5 miles/4km. Ascent/descent: 690ft/210m).Accommodation: TenzelingResort or similar(3 nights) (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 11: Walking and sightseeing around Paro

We’ll enjoy more spectacular views on the ZuriGoenpa hike. This is a relatively easy walk with a gentle ascent of about 20 minutes then contours along the slope above the Paro valley, finally finishing at the National Museum. As you walk along the trail, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos of the RinpongDzong, Paro town and the surrounding mountains. ZuriGoenpa is a 17th century monastery built by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal. Walk takes approx 2 -3 hours.

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 12: Taktsang Monastery

This morning we take the famous hike to Taktsang Monastery, known as the Tigers Nest. This magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff, 3,000ft above the valley floor.

The primary monastery was built around Guru Rinpoche’s meditation cave in 1684 by GyaltsheTenzinRabgay. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava, the tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan in 747, flew here on the back of a flying tigress. The original monastery was destroyed by fire in 1998 and was reconstructed.

This is a 4 hour hike with steep gradients. Your leader is on hand if you have any difficulties and a mule can be hired if needed. Those not wanting to go all the way to the top can wait at a pleasant café about half way up with views of the monastery

(Distance: 5 miles/8km. Ascent/descent: 1,900ft/580m).

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 13: To Kathmandu

Today we fly back to Kathmandu where we can enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Malla (1 night) (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 14: Departure day

Transfer to the airport for our flight home.

(Meals included: breakfast)

Chitwan National Park extension

Day 14: To Bharatpur and Chitwan National Park

This afternoon’s 30 minute flight takes you to Bharatpur. Your flight travels along the Himalayas with magnificent views of the mountains, including the majestic Annapurna range. On arrival, you will be driven overland (45 min) to your accommodation, in the very north of Chitwan National Park.

Chitwan National Park is one of Asia’s finest and richest wildlife sanctuaries. It covers an area of 360 square miles and is a true wilderness in every sense of the word. The park is home to a plethora of wildlife including a staggering number of bird species and the majestic if elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.

Accommodation: Jungle Villa Resort (2 nights) (Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Day 15: Chitwan National Park

A full day of wildlife activities ranging from wildlife viewing with experienced naturalists to elephant safaris into remote regions of the park. The programme for your stay will be given to you on arrival at the resort. The activities are adjusted to the season and the weather conditions. On the jungle safaris you will beaccompanied by expert naturalists who will advise you on safety procedures. We request you respect their judgement at all times. If you wish to stroll in the forest alone, a guide should accompany you for your safety.

(Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner).

Day 16: Chitwan National Park and return to Kathmandu

One more opportunity to search for wildlife before transferring to Bharatpur for your return flight to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your accommodation. Your hotel is close to the Thamel district, should you wish to pick up some last minute souvenirs. We have not included your meal this evening, so that you are free to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation: Hotel Malla (1 night)

(Meals included: breakfast)

Day 17: Departure day

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Meals included: breakfast)

Please note there will not be an HF Holidays’ leader nor a local leader in Chitwan. All activities are accompanied by local experts.

Accommodation

We use the best hotels available in the places visited. Accommodation in the more remote areas can be quite basic, and are generally at 2 or 3-star European standards, but always clean and welcoming.

Arriving inKathmandu, we stay at theHotel Malla, a 4-star hotel located in the centre of the city in the Thamel area.

In Thimpu, thePeaceful Resort(3 nts night)offers a very comfortable place to relax, a little out of the centre, and with very friendly and efficient service.

In Punakha we stay at theMeriPhuensumor the Hotel Vara.(2 nights)Located in a superb vantage point with views down over the river, the hotel is a little outside of town, affording us some peace and tranquility. Rooms are all en-suite, comfortable and spacious. meripuensum.bt/punakha/

Continuing into the Haa Valley we spend 2 nights at the Risum Resort, which offers spacious and comfortable bedrooms, a multi purpose dining room with wood burning stove. Excellent food and friendly staff will ensure you get the most from your stay in this quiet valley.

In Paro, accommodation is at theTenzeling Resortor similar(3 nights)situated amongst the pine forest,in the heart of the Paro Valley.

Returning to Kathmandu, we again stay at theHotel Malla.

Before your holiday

We hope you find this information comprehensive – if not please visit our website for more details or contact us.

All details correct at time of writing (revised Feb 2017). Passport and visa requirements are subject to change; please check with your consulate before you travel.

We would advise that you check your government’s travel advisory before travelling. For UK travellers, please check

In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be your HF Holidays’ leader or local leader. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays’ emergency contact details are as follows:

Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm

Tel +44 (0)345 470 7558

or +44(0)20 8732 1250 ( from overseas)

Fri - Mon 7pm - 9am

Tel +44 (0)7918 737777

Airport parking and accommodation

If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote HX031 or book online at

Suggested Kit List

Please try to keep luggage to a minimum as you will need to carry it yourself at airports and between your transport and your hotel.

• Walking boots – (worn in) with good ankle support and spare bootlaces
• Walking socks
• Lightweight fleece
• Lightweight waterproof trousers and jacket
• Shorts
• Long trousers and long-sleeved light coloured shirts with collars to protect from the sun − your clothing should ideally be pre-treated with insect repellent and in-built sun protection (available from specialist clothing stores such as Rohan, Cotswold Outdoor)
• Gaiters and thermals
• Warm fleece, hat and gloves
• Towel
• Torch
• Sun hat
• Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing
• Sun protection – sunglasses, high factor sunscreen and lip protection
• Water bottle – at least 2 litre capacity
• Lightweight survival bag
• Small/medium rucksack (30 litre) – a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains
• Soap and hand sanitizer gel
• Insect repellent
• Universal adaptor plug
• Universal sink plug
• Personal first aid kit including: personal medication, tissues, plasters, blister kit, painkillers, antiseptic wipes, Imodium, rehydration sachets
• Passport (and copies); booking confirmation; insurance cover note; HF Holidays’ registration form

Optional: trekking poles, camera, umbrella, binoculars.

Please ensure you have access to emergency funds should you need them; carrying a credit card is probably the most convenient method.

Please note that your HF Holidays’ leader reserves the right to refuse to take any guest on a walk should they consider that a lack of suitable clothing/footwear may affect safety.

Baggage allowance

1 piece checked-in luggage (max 20kg) on internal flights.

Please check details of your airline’s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked.

Passports & visas

Passports must be validfor 6 months when applying for Nepal visas.A Nepalese multiple-entry visa is requiredby British passport holders visiting Bhutan.Contact:Embassy of Nepal, 12a Kensington PalaceGardens, London, W8 4QU, or visit

Please obtain this inadvance. Other countries should consultthe embassy for advice.

It is possible to obtain visas on arrival at

Kathmandu, however it can take timecompleting the form and queuing. If youplan to get your visa on arrival, pleasedownload and complete a form from theNepalese Embassy website. This will savetime on arrival.

Your visa for Bhutan will beorganised by HF Holidays; please forwarda copy of your passport at least 10 weeksbefore departure.

Travel insurance

If arranging your own travel insurance, please ensure it is adequate for your specific itinerary. This should cover walking at altitudes over 2,000m. The highest point on this tour is 3200m.

Health advice

This is subject to change and we would highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit

or

Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Typhoid,Tetanus and Polio vaccinations arerecommended. Malaria and Rabiesprevention is sometimes recommendedtoo.