Post on 10-Mar-2020
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YOUR PRIVATE BHUTAN
Bhutan
9 Nights/10 Days
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Let your imagination soar
About &Beyond
&Beyond is a pioneering, experiential travel company that offers
forward-thinking, global travellers an exclusive experience of the
world as it should be; a world that is in balance with itself. We go
beyond mere luxury to enrich your guests’ experience through our
core ethos of Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, and Care of the
People. &Beyond has 30 exquisite safari lodges and camps across
Africa and South America, and we also design personalised, high-end
tours in 15 African countries, India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Chile,
Argentina, Ecuador and Peru.
Welcome to Bhutan
The last remaining great Himalayan Kingdom, Bhutan boasts
magnificent mountain scenery, incredible architecture and colourful
culture. A diverse natural Shangri-La, the country boasts of a
staggering variety of landscapes, as well as an incredible array of flora
and fauna. Set within one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain
chains, Bhutan is famed for its high mountain peaks and range of
trekking opportunities. Enigmatic and shrouded in myth, Bhutan is
filled with tangible examples of its extraordinary culture, from the
striking architecture of its mountain forts and monasteries to the
images of Buddhist religious figures painted or carved onto the craggy
cliffs. Colourful prayer flags flutter on spectacular mountain passes
and prayer wheels turn slowly with the current of clear mountain
streams.
Highlights of the Itinerary:
Breath-taking mountain views from Dochu La pass
The spectacular fortress of Punakha
The iconic hike to ‘Tigers Nest’
The remote valley of Phobjikha.
Specially created for
Active vacationers & Cultural enthusiasts
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
At a glance
9 nights / 10 days
0 – Bangkok (Day 1)
1 – Thimphu (Day 2)
2 - Punakha (Day 3, 4)
2 – Gangtey (Day 5, 6, 7)
3 – Paro (Day 8, 9)
AN &BEYOND CUSTOM-DESIGNED ITINERARY
DATE SERVICE ACCOMMODATION
Day 1 On arrival to Bangkok
1 Overnight in Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Superior Room on BB
Day 2 On arrival to Paro, drive to Thimphu (1 hour) + afternoon
meeting with a Trulku
1 Overnight in Six Senses, Thimphu
Lodge Suite on FB
Day 3 Transfer to Punakha with enroute sightseeing in Dochu la and
Chimi Lhakhang
2 Overnights in Uma by COMO, Punakha
Valley view on HB
Day 4 Hike to Khamsum Yuelley + sightseeing in Punakha
Day 5 Drive to Phobjikha (approx. 3 hours)
3 overnights in Gangtey Lodge, Phobjikha Suite on FB
Day 6 Sightseeing in Phobjikha
Day 7 Sightseeing in Phobjikha
Day 8 Drive from Phobjikha to Paro (6 hours) + Local sightseeing
2 Overnights in Amankora, Paro
Suite on FB
Day 9 Hike to Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s nest)
Day 10 Departure
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
GLOSSARY
BB = Bed and breakfast
HB = Room + Breakfast + dinner
FB = Full Board basis (please check itinerary for specific includes & excludes per property)
ENTRY/VISA REQUIREMENTS
As of all international travel, the visitor to Bhutan is required to be in possession of a valid passport and
visa. Travelers from all countries need a visa. Visa for Bhutan will be arranged by &Beyond South Asia
(Bhutan) office on receipt of the full payment for the tour.
SATELLITE PHONES & DRONES ARE NOT ALLOWED IN BHUTAN
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Expect the extraordinary
Day 1- Arrive Bangkok
Today, you will arrive Bangkok and enjoy a leisure day in the city.
Spend one night in Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Ready for departure in early morning and transfer to Paro.
Day 2- Arrive Paro/ Thimphu
This morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to
Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport. The flight into Bhutan takes
you close to the great Himalayas; offering dazzling scenic views of
some of world’s highest glacial peaks. As you enter the Paro valley,
you will pass forested hills with the slivery Pa Chu (Paro River)
meandering down the valley below with the Paro Dzong (fortress) and
Ta Dzong (watch tower) on the hill above the town.
As you exit from the arrival hall of Paro airport, you will be met by
your guide and chauffeured to your hotel in Punakha (3 hour’s drive).
En-route stop to visit the Tamchogg Lhakhang and marvel at the iron
bridge reconstructed using original chain links from the famous
Tibetan bridge builder Thangtong Gyelpo.
On arrival, check in to your hotel.
In the afternoon, stop at the Pangri Zampa monastery which is the
school for traditional astrology. Here you will have a short session on
astrology and also a guided tour of the monastery.
Drive onwards to Buddha Dordenma – a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha
statue. The statue is filled with over one hundred thousand smaller
Buddha statues, each of which, like the Buddha Dordenma itself is
made of bronze and gilded in gold. At a height of 51.5 metres, it is
one of the tallest Buddha statues on the world.
Later, you will meet with one of the high ranking Trulkus who will
have a discussion with you on Vajrayana Buddhism.
Spend One overnight at Six Senses, Thimphu. Your accommodation
will be in a Deluxe room on Full board (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
basis.
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 3 - Punakha
After an early breakfast this morning, you will be chauffeured to
Punakha (3 hour’s drive). The road climbs steeply through a scenic
forest of pine and cedar trees, to Dochu La pass (10,000 feet). The
pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges.
Stop on Dochu La to visit the 108 stupas built on this 3,150-metre-high
pass in honor the fallen Bhutanese soldiers. You can do a meditation
session here in one of the meditation caves (not a guided session – to
be done by yourself).
Well before reaching Punakha stop en route and hike about 30
minutes to Chimi Lhakhang, which is on a small hilltop. The temple
was dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century, known as Drukpa
Kuenley, also known as the “Divine madman.” He is known for
dramatizing Buddhist teachings using songs. It is believed that this
temple blesses women who seek fertility. If interested you can also
watch the Thangkha painters here in action.
Afterwards, you will be driven to your hotel for check-in and lunch
(not included).
In the late afternoon, proceed back towards Punakha and visit the
beautiful Punakha Dzong. Constructed in 1637, this was the second of
Bhutan’s Dzong and for many years its seat of government. From this
spectacular setting you can look back to see the Khamsum Yuelley
Namgyel Temple perched on the hillside far in the distance.
Spend Two overnights at COMO Uma Punakha. Your accommodation
will be in a 01 Valley view room on Half board basis (Breakfast +
dinner).
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 4 - Punakha
Early this morning, drive to the suspension bridge from where you
begin a hike to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten with a packed
breakfast. This three storey lhakhang was built by Her Majesty the
Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon for the protection of the country. It has
an impressive view of Punakha valley. The deities represented here
belong to a teaching cycle of Dudjom Rinpoche, a great Nyingmapa
master (1904-87). The functions of the deities are to subjugate
enemies and harmful influences and also to spread peace and
harmony. The lhakhang is a 45 minute hike from the main road.
Rest of the morning is at leisure.
Late afternoon, visit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhendrup Lhakhang
Nunnery. Perched on a ridge amid pine trees gleams the magnificent
structures of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (temple). The
temple houses a 14-foot main bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara
(Chenrigzig chagtong chentong). Other statues include those of Guru
Padmasambawa, Gautama Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel,
Tsela Namsum, the 21 Taras and Tsepamay (Buddha of longevity). The
Avalokiteshvara statue, one of the biggest in the country, was the
handiwork of entirely local Bhutanese artisans. The temple complex
also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation center for
nuns where, apart from religious trainings, it provides life skill
training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka
painting.
Here you will have an hour-long interaction with the nuns who live in
the nunnery. This will be followed by a Tshewang (blessing)
ceremony. It is a prayer for personal empowerment, wish fulfilment
and a healthy life. The prayer will last approximately 30 minutes,
during which you will participate in the lighting up of butter candles
as well.
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Day 5 – Punakha/ Phobjikha
This morning, post breakfast, you will be chauffeured to Phobjikha (3
hour’s drive).
Crossing Wangdue, the road will gradually climbs to Lawa La pass,
which offers the magnificent view of Jhomolhari (7300m) mountain
and Jichu Drake (6700m). There is an abrupt change in vegetation as
we drive, with mountain forest replaced by high altitude dwarf
bamboo.
Phobjikha is one of the most beautiful valleys in the country and it’s
the winter home of endangered black-necked cranes that migrate
from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower
climate. These winged visitors begin arriving around early October.
Phobjikha is at an altitude of 2900 m above sea level and on the
periphery of the Black Mountain National Park.
On reaching Phobjikha check in to the hotel. Soak in the beautiful
views of the Phobjikha valley and relax.
This afternoon, you will be taking a short hike to acclimatize. The
hike will take you to the villages of Kumbu, Jangchae and Barra. You
can either hike or ride mountain bikes to these villages. You will have
a chance to interact with the village dwellers and see their way of
life.
In the evening head to the shedra, a college for monks where about
200 monks are studying. You will attend a meditation session and a
prayer service where all the monks sing the evening prayers. This is a
mesmerizing experience and we highly recommend the same.
Spend three overnights in Gangtey Lodge, Phobjikha. Your
accommodation will be in a Suite on Full board basis (breakfast +
lunch + dinner).
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 6 – Phobjikha
This morning, you will be escorted to the Gangtey Goemba
(monastery), which enjoys the valley's prime real estate, on a
forested hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha
valley. Pema Thinley, the grandson and reincarnation of Pema Lingpa,
founded the Nyingma temple here in 1613 and today the Goemba is
the seat of the 9th reincarnation of the body of the Terton (Treasure
discoverer) Pema Lingpa.
Then walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, quite popular amongst the
visitors to the valley. Crossing streams and rhododendron gardens you
cross Sumchubara village, afterwards you enter the Pine covered
forest, which opens at a canopy that affords fabulous views of the
valley. Further down, the trial passes the village of Khewang and later
you will cross the Nake Chu where you will be picked up by your car
and driven back to the lodge.
On the way back you will be taken to the Crane Information Center a
short drive on the way back to the lodge. It gives you the detailed
information regarding the valley and the black necked-crane. The
center is also equipped with binoculars, installed to watch the cranes.
There is a good chance that the last few might still be there at this
time. Also enjoy a 15-minute documentary about the endangered bird
– “The Birds of Heaven”, if interested.
Lunch will be at the lodge.
Rest of the afternoon is at leisure. You can try your hand this
afternoon on some traditional archery (dha) or darts (Khuru). The
other option is to cycle to Kumbu Lhakhang and back.
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 7 - Phobjikha
This morning, after an early breakfast, you will go on the Longteng
Hike. It is a 30 minutes’ drive from Gangtey to the starting point in
Longteng village on the East-West highway. Start by walking
downwards following the path to the right of the road. The path will
lead through bush bamboo towards a small cluster of village houses.
There are beautifully coloured rhododendron forests on both sides of
the valley, and in the winter months, yaks graze in the area. Continue
straight through the village upwards until you reach the start of
mystifying old-growth rhododendron forest.
The last part through the forest is slightly steeper uphill until you
reach the pass with impressive views of the Gangtey Goemba, the
Shedra, the lodge and the rest of the valley down below. Before you
continue on the path as it slopes down the valley towards the idyllic
Kumbu village. It is possible to get picked up from here, or you may
continue down to the Shedra or all the way down to the valley.
This hike will take about 5 – 6 hours and drive back to your lodge by
lunch time.
Return to the day is at leisure.
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 8 – Phobjikha/ Paro
Today early morning, you will be transferred to Paro (6 hours).
Paro is a historic town with many sacred sites and historical buildings
scattered through the area. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest
temples and monasteries, National Museum and the country's only
airport. Mount. Jhomolhari (7,314m) reigns in its white glory at the
northern end of the valley and its glacial water plunge through deep
gorges to form the Pa Chhu (Paro river). Paro is also one of the most
fertile valleys in the Kingdom producing a bulk of the locally famous
red rice from its terraced fields.
On arrival in Paro, check-in to your hotel and have lunch.
Alternately, drive to visit the National Museum. Originally set in the
ancient circular building which served as the watch tower- Ta Dzong,
the museum is temporarily shifted in a new administration building
close by due to the destruction of Ta Dzong in an earthquake. The
museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artefacts,
weapons, coins, stamps and a small natural history collection.
Later if time permits, visit to the local farmhouse. It is a traditional
village house. The beauty of Paro valley is embellished by cluster of
old fashioned farm houses. Bhutanese farm houses are very colourful,
decorative and traditionally built without the use of single nail. All
houses follow the same architectural pattern. A visit to Farm House is
very interesting and offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a
farmer.
Spend two overnights at Amankora, Paro. Your accommodation will be
in a Suite on Full board (breakfast + lunch + dinner) basis.
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Day 9 – Paro
After a hearty breakfast, take a short drive to the north of Paro Valley
to Ramthankha, and start your hike to the Taktsang monastery
(Tiger’s Nest). The trail climbs through beautiful pine forest, many of
the trees festooned with Spanish moss and an occasional grove of
fluttering prayer flags. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, founder of
Buddhism in Bhutan flew from Eastern Bhutan on a tigress, bringing
Buddhist teachings with him and meditated here on this cliff. This is
one of the most venerated and sacred of all Buddhist sights around
the world.
This hike is takes about 5hrs with a 900 meters approximate gain in
altitude.
Afterwards hike down to the car park before returning to the hotel.
Drive back to your hotel and rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 10 – Paro/ Departure
This morning, you will be transferred to the Paro airport and back to
Bangkok for transit. Choose your idea flight to fly back to Hong Kong.
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Journey overview
RATES 2019
VALIDITY – 2 guests travelling and using 1 room Per person sharing
High Season (March/April/May/Sept/Oct/Nov/Dec 2019) HK$ 76,750 up
Single Supplement High season HK$ 40,140 up
Low Season (January/February/June/July/Aug 2019) HK$ 66,480 up
Single Supplement Low season HK$ 29,870
Helicopter for Scenic Mountain flight to Mt. Jhomolhari HK$ 19,250
RATES 2019
VALIDITY – 4 guests travelling and using 2 rooms Per person sharing
High Season (March/April/May/Sept/Oct/Nov/Dec 2019) HK$ 71,350 up
Single Supplement High season HK$ 40,140 up
Low Season (January/February/June/July/Aug 2019) HK$ 61,090 up
Single Supplement Low season HK$ 29,870
Helicopter for Scenic Mountain flight to Mt. Jhomolhari HK$ 9,880
RATES 2019
VALIDITY – 6 guests travelling and using 3 rooms Per person sharing
High Season (March/April/May/Sept/Oct/Nov/Dec 2019) HK$ 70,160 up
Single Supplement High season HK$ 40,140 up
Low Season (January/February/June/July/Aug 2019) HK$ 59,890 up
Single Supplement Low season HK$ 29,870
Helicopter for Scenic Mountain flight to Mt. Jhomolhari HK$ 13,000
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Accommodation
DATE DESTINATION ACCOMMODATION DETAILS
Day 01 Bangkok Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Superior Room (Breakfast)
Day 02 Thimphu Six Senses Lodge Suite
(Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
Day 03 Punakha COMO Uma Punakha Valley view room
(Breakfast + Dinner)
Day 04 Punakha COMO Uma Punakha Valley view room
(Breakfast + Dinner)
Day 05 Punakha /Phobjikha Gangtey Lodge Suite (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
Day 06 Phobjikha Gangtey Lodge Suite (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
Day 07 Phobjikha Gangtey Lodge Suite (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
Day 08 Phobjikha / Paro Amankora Suite (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner +
House Beverages)
Day 09 Paro Amankora Suite (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner +
House Beverages)
What’s included:
Round trip economy class air ticket from Hong Kong to Bangkok on Cathay Pacific Airways.
Round trip economy class air ticket from Bangkok to Paro on DrukAir.
Accommodation on DOUBLE / TWIN ROOMS in hotels as mentioned.
All transfers as mentioned in a private vehicle, and sightseeing.
Sightseeing tour will be provided as per the itinerary with the English-speaking Bhutanese Guide and in a private
Vehicle.
All entrance and monuments fees.
Special inclusions
o 01 one-hour session with a trulku
o 01 blessing (tshewang ceremony) session at Punakha
o 01 meditation and prayer session with the monks at the Gangtey Shedra (subject to availability)
Visa fees for Bhutan only.
All current taxes as on date – subject to change as per hotel/airline/Government policy.
Rates are valid for Asian Nationals only.
What’s not included:
Tipping to guides and drivers.
Any Insurance and rescue of any form.
Cost arising out of flight cancellation/road blockades/landslides/riots and events beyond our control.
Expenses of personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned in the above cost.
Any international air fare/airport taxes not mentioned above
Hotel surcharges during festival period/ Christmas & New Years Eve
Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff.
Items of personal nature like tips, laundry, phone calls etc.
Any video/still camera fee to the monuments and places of visit
PBH-CXKB9146F License No.:350001
Any other item not explicitly mentioned under price includes.
Any airfare for domestic flights other than the quoted details.
Any cost of the meals other than the one indicated in room meal plan.
Sightseeing and excursions other than those specified.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
1. The above prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy & only applicable for minimum 2 adults traveling &
check-in together in the same pattern.
2. The above prices are subject to Airport Passenger Security Charge, airport taxes, fuel surcharge, airport construction fee
and administration fee.
3. Package price does not include : -
o Cost of travel documents and visa fees.
o Personal expenses, optional tours, transfers and other services that are not specified.
o Expenses incurred owing to the delay of air / land carriers that are beyond our control.
4. The above prices are applicable to specific flight, air ticket booking class code, hotel choice, room type and departure
date only, and are subject to the supply and policy of airline and hotels. Connexus Travel may adjust prices without prior
notice. All prices are subject to change at the time of booking.
5. A non-refundable deposit of HK$3,000 is required upon confirmation, balance payment is required at least 60 days prior to
departure or deadline set by airline or hotel whichever is earlier.
6. Accommodation should be completed on or before Dec 31, 2019 or specified by individual hotel.
7. No amendment, cancellation and refund is allowed once documents are issued.
8. Other terms and conditions apply, for further details, please contact Connexus Travel.
9. Connexus Travel reserves the rights to amend terms & conditions. In case of any disputes, Connexus Travel's decision shall
be final.
10. All prices, information and images in this flyer are for reference only.