Bhutan

We designed this trip for the adventure traveler that seeks to combine outdoor activities with the magnificent cultural experiences. Our destination is the Punakha Valley. En route we will trek to remote mountain monasteries, raft or kayak pristine river systems, fly fish for Himalayan brown and snow trout, descend by mountain bike from the high passes, and relax in the grandeur of luxurious mountain resorts.

NOTE:  The Bhutanese tourist providers change rates without notice.  All prices are subject to change until final payment is made. Pricing is based upon a group of 4 guests

Included:

• Roundtrip airfare between Bangkok and Paro
• Lodging, meals and transportation within Bhutan
• All government royalty and visa fees
• Costs of permits for cultural and religious sites
• Paro airport departure tax

Not included:

• Pricing changes due to an increase or decrease in the number of guests
• International airfare to Bangkok
• Lodging or transportation in Bangkok
• Single supplement charges
• Beverage purchases at hotels
• Laundry, telephone and Internet charges
• Guide or staff gratuities
• Excess baggage charges
• Other personal expenses

Day 1: Fly from Bangkok to Paro, Bhutan where your guide meets you at the airport. From the flight in, weaving through the Paro valley, arrival in Bhutan is like no other! A short transfer brings us to Uma Paro for lunch.  In the afternoon, we explore Paro before visiting Druguel Dzong, located at the northern end of the valley. (Overnight: Uma Paro).

Day 2:  2 hour drive to the top of the Cheili La Pass (3900m / 12,795 ft). After exploring the local monastery, we strap on helmets and meander down the mountain road on bikes relishing the spectacular Himalayan views. Afternoon drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capitol city.  (Overnight: Thimphu Taj Tashi)

Day 3. After breakfast, we drive to the head of the Thimphu Valley and explore the local monastery. Afternoon is spent exploring and shopping in Thimphu, Bhutan's capitol city. Options vary from 9 holes of golf on the Kings course, to visiting Bhutan's famous textile industry. (Overnight: Thimphu Taj Tashi)

Day 4. A four hour drive from Thimphu to Punakha via the 10,000 ft Dochu La pass brings us into the Punakha valley. En route we will visit the Divine Mad Monks monastery! (Overnight: Punakha River Lodge).

Day 5: Raft Po Chhu river. After two hour of trekking, we arrive at the put- in of the Po Chhu river.  Classic grade 2-3 rapids pave the way down one of the most scenic sections of river in the Himalayas. The day finishes with a visit to the famous Punakha Dzong. (Overnight: Punakha River Lodge).

Day 6:  We start the morning with a short trek to the spectacular monument honoring the King of Bhutan.  When the trail meets the river we change footwear, put on life jackets and float the tranquil waters of the Mo Chhu River.  Evening spent relaxing in the idyllic setting of the Lodge, or fly fishing for Himalayan brown and snow trout.  (Overnight: Punakha River Lodge).

Day 7: Drive Paro. Today's onward journey takes us back to the picturesque Paro Valley, with plenty of time to enjoy the Uma Paro's relaxing Spa facilities. (Overnight: Uma Paro)

Day 8: Paro. Morning hike to view one of Bhutan's most revered monuments, the Taktsang Goemba, more commonly referred to as the 'Tiger's Nest'. The four-hour trek offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on a cliff face 900m above the valley floor. (Overnight: Uma Paro)

Day 9: Early morning transfer to airport for international departure.