Yoga & Meditation Tour to Bhutan

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Yoga & Meditation Tour to Bhutan

Trip Facts

  • Duration: 13 Days
  • Group size : People
  • Best TimeSpring / Autumn
  • Destination :Bhutan

About Yoga & Meditation Tour to Bhutan

Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through the mystical landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Bhutan with this meticulously curated itinerary. From the vibrant streets of Thimphu to the serene retreats of Phajoding and Paro, each day offers a harmonious blend of adventure, exploration, and spiritual rejuvenation. Trek through verdant forests and ascend to breathtaking heights, immersing yourself in the tranquility of ancient monastic complexes and pristine lakes. Delve into Bhutan's spiritual heritage with meditation sessions at remote monasteries and cultural immersion experiences in traditional villages. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Taktsang Lhakhang, perched precariously on cliff faces, steeped in legend and mystique.

Unwind amidst scenic landscapes and indulge in traditional Bhutanese hospitality, from hot stone baths infused with medicinal properties to cultural programs and rejuvenating massages. This itinerary promises an unforgettable odyssey through the heart of Bhutan, where every moment is imbued with the magic of the Himalayas and the timeless spirit of this enchanting kingdom.

Itinerary

This itinerary is intended as a guide only. Local conditions and weather may necessitate variations to the program and can affect the availability of views and panoramas described.
Be aware that all time stated are approximate and may vary with individual and group fitness, weather, Trekking route, river level and road conditions.

Upon arrival at Paro Airport (PBH), you'll be greeted by our representative for a scenic drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. En route, stop at Chuzom, where the Thimphu and Paro rivers meet. Thimphu is a blend of tradition and modernity, boasting temples, dzongs, chortens, museums, handicraft stores, and more. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, then take an evening stroll through Thimphu's main street and market area.

OVERNIGHT AT THIMPHU

Thimpu Sightseeing - Early morning breakfast - Thimphu, is the capital and biggest city of Bhutan. It is situated in the western central part of Bhutan and the surrounding valley is one of Bhutan's Dzongkhag, the Thimpu District - Thimphu is situated at an average elevation of nearly 2400 meters - Sightseeing includes 1) Buddha Point,2) Tashicchhoe Dzong, 4) The Memorial Chorten, 5) Small Bhutan, 5. changangkha Lhakhang

OVER NIGHT AT THIMPHU

The trek commences from Motithang, next to the Takin Preserve, situated at approximately 2500m altitude. Covering a distance of around 5-6 km with a steep uphill climb, it may take around 3 hours or more to complete. The trail winds through a forest primarily composed of blue pine and rhododendrons. As you ascend towards Phajoding, the vegetation transitions to shrubs. Phajoding hosts a significant monastic complex featuring about 10 temples and residences for monks on extended retreats, some of which you can explore. The campsite is positioned at an elevation of roughly 3700m.

OVERNIGHT IN TENTS

Today's trek presents a significant challenge as we ascend to higher altitudes. Departing from Phajoding, a strenuous 45-minute uphill hike leads to the ridge-top at 4090m. Alternatively, you can opt to detour and climb approximately 300m from the campsite to Thujedrak Goempa (3950m), a secluded meditation center perched on a cliffside. Once on the ridge-top, the path continues gradually uphill, offering splendid vistas of Dochula, Chomolhari, and other peaks. Crossing Labanla pass (4235m), you'll then embark on a lengthy descent via switchback trails to the campsite near Simkotra Tso Lake (4100m). Expect an approximately 11km trek lasting 4-5 hours.

OVERNIGHT IN TENTS

Starting from Simkotra, we'll initially follow the main trail, but instead of proceeding to Jimilangtso, we'll opt for a direct route to Jangch Lakha. This segment of the journey is estimated to take 6-7 hours. For adept hikers, there's also the option to venture to Jimilangtso before reaching Jangchulakha, a yak pasture situated at 3750m altitude.

 

OVERNIGHT IN TENTS

Today's trek offers a delightful experience as you traverse along ridge sides, meadows, and forests, reaching Jili Dzong after approximately 4 hours. Along the way, you might catch glimpses or hear the distinctive calls of monal pheasants. Perched on a promontory at 3540m, Jili Dzong provides panoramic views of Paro and Tsaluna valley, with its temple housing a remarkable statue of Buddha.

Following this, commence a gradual descent through dense forests adorned with golden moss, passing by settlements adorned with apple orchards, until reaching the road point after 2-3 hours downhill from Jili Dzong. Here, you’ll meet the awaiting vehicle for a transfer to your hotel in Paro valley.

 

OVERNIGHT IN COMFORTABLE HOTEL

Following breakfast, embark on a visit to Dzong Drakha Monastery for a meditation session. Situated just a 30-minute drive south of your hotel in Paro valley, you'll spend the next two days in tranquil contemplation at this monastery. Enjoy your overnight stay at the Meditation Monastery.

After breakfast, enjoy a stroll through the nearby village to immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture and traditional ways of life. Gain insights into local customs during a visit to a farmhouse, where you'll have the opportunity to dine with farmers for lunch. Following lunch, return to the monastery to resume your meditation practice.

After breakfast, you'll be transported to Chella Pass, situated in the picturesque Haa Valley, renowned as the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. Delight in the lush greenery and capture memorable photos before returning for lunch in Paro Town. The evening is yours to explore and indulge in shopping. Enjoy your overnight stay in Paro.

After breakfast, you will embark on a journey that includes visits to several significant landmarks:

- Paro Dzong

- National Museum

- Ta Dzong

Additionally, Kitchu Monastery, located a few kilometers from Paro Town, awaits your exploration. The monastery houses notable statues of Jow and Guru Rinpoche, with the statue of Jow Shakyamuni esteemed alongside its counterpart in Lhasa, Tibet.

This revered monastery attracts visitors from distant places on a daily basis, as it is believed that wishes are granted here effortlessly.

After breakfast, we will drive to Taktsang Lhakhang, Bhutan’s most iconic religious site and landmark, known as "The Tiger’s Nest," this temple holds immense significance in the kingdom. Perched precariously on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the Paro Valley, it was originally constructed in 1692 at the cave where Guru Rimpoche meditated in the 7th century A.D. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche arrived at the site atop the back of a tigress and meditated in the cave for 3 years, 3 months, 3 days, and 3 hours to vanquish the evil demons dwelling within it.

OVERNIGHT AT PARO

Today, take the opportunity to relax and indulge in the comforts of your hotel. The rooms are renowned for their terraces offering picturesque views, ideal for unwinding. Sit back on the terrace, taking in the tranquil surroundings and the refreshing scent of the sea and pines. While you enjoy your leisure time, lunch will be prepared and any tidying up will be taken care of.

 

In the evening, immerse yourself in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath and Cultural Program. The process of this bath is distinctively Bhutanese, utilizing medicinal water called Menchu, infused with Artemisia leaves. River stones, heated until glowing red, are used to heat the water, which is then transferred to a wooden chamber connected to the main tub. This method infuses the bath with heat and minerals believed to have medicinal properties. After soaking in the water for an hour or two, enjoy a hot beverage while undergoing a salt scrub to exfoliate and an oil massage to soothe tired muscles after a long day.

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What's included

Included

  • All Hikes & Sightseeing.
  • A minimum of 3 Star Government approved Accommodation in twin sharing basis room.
  • All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) with Evening Tea, coffee & Snacks.
  • We have our own convoy of Imported Foreign vehicles like (Toyota SUV Cars for FIT & Toyota H1, HiAce Bus, and Coaster Bus for Group with driver) for all internal Transfers & sightseeing (excluding internal flights).
  • All Entrance Fees of museums and cultural sites.
  • A licensed English-Speaking Bhutanese Tour Guide With
  • 3 Star Hotel
  • All Local Taxes and service charges.
  • Extra Services: Mineral drinking water
  • All Entrance fees are as per program.
  • All Parking Fee
  • Single room supplement
  • Cultural Program as a Surprise Program (Bhutanese Dance)

What's Excluded

Excluded

  • One-time Visa fees of US$ 40 (must be paid in advance with tour cost)
  • Round Trip Air fare/ Train Fare & Airport Taxes not included.
  • 4/5-star accommodations and meals
  • Travel Insurance
  • Luxury hotels & separate vehicles
  • Tips for Guide, Driver & other Staff
  • Trekking Accessories like sleeping bags & shoes are not included.
  • Personal related expenses like calls, Beverages, Alcohol, laundry, donations to Monasteries and Temples, Souvenirs, shopping, etc.

Tourism council of Bhutan states in its directive:

''While tourism may be important as a revenue earner, Bhutan sees no gain in succumbing to over commercialism. It recognizes that a small country emerging from isolation must do so in its own time and at its own pace. The Tourism council of Bhutan is clear that its policy of high value, low volume is the right policy because Bhutan is just too small for mass tourism. And as the world begins to discover the Land of the Thunder Dragon, many go away with a sense of having been in a special place, far from the insanity of modern living. Here is a land where life may not be materially luxurious, but it provides much that is good for a society that is not yet caught up with the global rat race.”

VISA FORMALITIES

All the Visitors MUST obtain Visa clearance prior to travel to Bhutan otherwise you cannot embark Bhutan.

Visas are processed through an online system by your licensed Bhutanese tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent.

You are required to send the photo-page of your passport to your tour operator who will then apply for your visa. The visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) once the full payment of your holiday (including a USD $40 visa fee) has been wire transferred and received in the TCB bank account. Once received the visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours.

At your point of entry, you will be required to show your visa clearance letter, the visa will then be stamped into your passport.

Important Note:

  • A scanned copy of your original passport with clear details should be sent to us in advance.
  • Visitors must bring 3 nos. of latest color Passport sixe Photo for visa.
  • For processing Visa, we should have received your details at least two weeks in advance, because time taken to process Visa is almost two weeks.
  • All passengers are advised to check their passport validity which should not be less than 6 months from the date of travel.

Bhutan Visa will be issued and stamped in your passport only when you arrive in Bhutan.

Payment Procedure

Prior to your trip to Bhutan, you will be asked to make the full payment (in terms of US Dollars) for your trips to the Tourism Council of Bhutan’s bank account at the Bhutan National Bank, with Bhutan Travel Express as the Ultimate Beneficiary of the funds. You must make the tour payment calculated by Bhutan Travel Express as well as USD 40 (one-time visa fee) to the Bhutan National Bank.

Tour payment must be sent 1 month prior to date of arrival in Bhutan and visa is cleared by the Royal Government of Bhutan subject to advance payment only. For high seasons, it is advisable to remit payment 6 months in advance or earlier. That will give us ample of time to arrange all the amenities for your tour to Bhutan. Once the trip is confirmed we will send you the instructions for making payment.

Your money is held in the government’s account and will not be released to Bhutan Travel Express until you return from Bhutan after your tours. Your money is always secured, therefore.

Note: We will share you our bank details once you confirm you travel booking with us.

HOW TO GET TO BHUTAN

There are only two ways to enter Bhutan – by air and by road/ land.

 

Entering by Air: Paro is the only international airport in Bhutan. Paro is situated at a height of 2,250 m (7382 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by mountains as high as 4,876 m (16,000 ft approx).  At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Royal Bhutan Airlines (Druk Air) and Bhutan Airlines. And there are domestic airports in Yonphula in eastern Bhutan, Bumthang in central Bhutan, and Gelephu in south-central Bhutan.

Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operates regularly to/from India (Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Gaya, Guwathi, and Bagdogra), Thailand (Bangkok), Singapore (Changi), Bangladesh (Dhaka) and Nepal (Kathmandu). We are also an authorized International Air Ticketing Agency. Therefore, for both Druk Air & Bhutan Airlines you can rely on us for Air Tickets so as to reach Bhutan any time you wish.

Entering by Land (Road): Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar are the only land border areas open to tourists. If you wish to travel overland, you can enter and exit Bhutan through its southern gateway of Phuentsholing into the Indian state of West Bengal. It is approximately six hours drive from Thimphu. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, about 170 km (106 miles Approx.) away from Phuentsholing. This border point is an ideal junction for those wishing to combine their exploration of Bhutan with the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal (Darjeeling District).

Gelephu in south-central Bhutan is another entry point to Bhutan. It is approximately 250 km (155 miles Approx.) from Thimphu and the journey will take you through the sub-tropical areas of Bhutan before entering the alpine zone and then finally into Thimphu. One will have to traverse across three districts and the travel time will be about 9 hours.

The district of Samdrup Jongkhar in south-east Bhutan borders the Indian district of Darranga, Assam and is approximately 150 km (93 miles Approx.) away from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. It is 3-hour drive from Samdrup Jongkhar to the Indian airport of Guwahati. Tourists entering Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar will take you to Trashigang, and from there over the lateral route to Mongar, Bumthang, Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang and then finally into capital, Thimphu. The distance is about 700 km (435 miles Approx) and will take you a minimum of three days to reach Thimphu. This is usually preferred by those flying into Paro in the west and touring across eastern Bhutan without back tracking.

Reservation & Cancellation Policy

We genuinely hope that you will successfully complete your Bhutan trip making most enjoyable memory of Bhutan.  We assure you to provide every effort to make your experience in Bhutan a memorable one.  We do realize at time due to unavoidable circumstances a trip to Bhutan may need to be cancelled or postponed. Thus, we have our judicious cancelation policy to protect but the parties.

Tour programs that are cancelled shall be subject to cancellation charges as follows depending on how close to the arrival date to Bhutan that the cancellation is done.

GENERAL REMARKS:

The cost of air tickets is subject to change without prior notice by the airlines.

Extra supplement will be charged if the rooms are to be upgraded.

  • The complete tour payment must be made no later than 90 days prior to your trip in US$ as per the wire payment instructions. This is to ensure that we secure visas, hotel reservations, transportation and guides.
  • The complete flight payment must be made before the expiry date of the flight reservation done on behalf of you. You have the flexibility to send either both the payment together and the trip payment later.

Why Book With Us?
  • Instant online booking
  • Secure payments
  • Guaranteed departure
  • Group discount available
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