Meals

All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner). Breakfast & Dinner will be usually served at your hotels. Most of the lunches will be served at local restaurants while some can be arranged as a picnic. We also arrange dinners at some traditional restaurants to offer a better choice.

Others

Bhutan Visa Fee is included. Visa will be arranged for you. Trekking permit Bottled mineral water in the car

Guide

We believe tour guides play an important role in making your journey memorable and getting the most out of your trip. All our guides are experienced English-speaking licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and they will accompany you throughout your trip in Bhutan. They are always ready to serve you and take care of you every step of your journey so that you go back home satisfied and happy with good memories that will last a lifetime. And the driver’s responsibility is no less. No matter how luxury the transport is, your safety and comfort are in the hands of a driver. Therefore, we employ only experienced drivers specifically licensed to drive tourists. If for some reason you are not satisfied with either of our guide or driver, let us know immediately. We never had such issues in the past but we’ll always try to have them replaced as soon as possible. NOTE: We can arrange guides speaking other major languages (French, Japanese, German, Chinese, Korean & Thai) at an additional fee.

Hygieneprotocol

Starting from 23rd September 2022, Bhutan will fully reopen for tourism without quarantine requirement. The pre-departure RT-PCR negative test certificate is also not required. However, all tourists are required to show up-to-date COVID-19 vaccinination record. You are also required to have travel insurance. You may be required to wear face mask at all public places.

Transport

All ground transportations including airport transfers. We provide: Luxury SUV for 1-2 person Luxury Minivan for a group of 3-8 person Luxury bus/coach for a group of 9 people and above Our fleet of transport vehicles are highly maintained and chauffeured by specially licensed professionals to drive tourists. Porter & Pony charges are also included for trekking adventures.

Optional

You will have an opportunity to try our Bhutanese traditional archery and dart throwing. A set of national costumes (Gho for men and Kira for women) will be provided. The costumes should be returned to the guide at the end of the tour.

Accommodation

Council of Bhutan. Our partner hotels are handpicked based on the recommendations and good experiences from our past guests. You will be informed of where you will stay at each destination before your arrival. During the course of trekking, we provide full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wilderness at designated campsites. Our trekking crew will transport the tents and camping equipment, pitch the tents, prepare and serve meals, washings will also be done by our trekking staff. You just have to bring a sleeping bag and a travel pillow. We will send you a suggested packing list after we receive your booking. You will also have an option (prior arrangement required) to stay at village homestay/farmhouse at few destinations to get insight into the local culture and feast on delicious local cuisine and take part in preparing some of the popular dishes of Bhutan.

Not included:

Insurance

Travel insurance is optional but highly recommended.

Flights

Flights are NOT INCLUDED. We can help arrange your flights to/from Bhutan. The flight tends to get fully booked months ahead especially during the peak season. We highly recommend you to book flights a few months ahead of your departure date. There are only two airlines operating in and out of Bhutan: 1. Drukair, the national flag carrier of Bhutan (www.drukair.com.bt) operates from/to these cities/International Airports: Bangkok, Bagdogra, Bodhgaya, Dhaka, Delhi, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore. 2. Bhutan Airlines, a private airline introduced in 2011 (www.bhutanairlines.bt) operates from/to these cities/International Airport: Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu.

Others

Emergency evacuation including helicopter services. Entrance fees to parks, museums and other national monuments Alcoholic beverages, bar bills. Laundry services, telephone call charges Premium accommodation in a 4-Star and above hotel. Cultural shows that require an advance arrangement. Tips to guides and drivers (optional). Any other expense of personal nature.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport - Excursion In Paro (2200M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport - Excursion In Paro (2200M)

Our guide and driver will receive you at Paro International Airport and then escort you on your first adventure in the Kingdom of Bhutan sometimes known as "The Last Shangri-La" to the outside world. You’ll begin by visiting National Museum to get a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions and history of Bhutan, visit 17th-century Paro Rinpung Dzong originally built as an administrative and monastic center of the western region. Today, it serves as the office of governor and head clergy of the Paro district.

From there, we walk to the beautiful traditional wooden cantilever bridge just below the Dzong. Later in the evening, visit an auspicious and one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang believed to have been built overnight by the Tibetan Kind Songtsen Gampo in his mission to subdue spirit of a giant ogress that was harming the propagation of Buddhism in the Himalayan region. We conclude the day exploring Paro town.

Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort
Day 2 Day 2: Hike To The Famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger’S Nest) / Transfer To The Capital Thimphu (2334M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Hike To The Famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger’S Nest) / Transfer To The Capital Thimphu (2334M)

After an early breakfast, drive to Taktsang base and hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang popularly known as Tiger’s Nest. The round trip hike takes 4-5 hours but you can hike at your own pace. We recommend starting early before the sun gets stronger. Oneway horse riding is available on your way up to the mid-point (Taktsang Viewpoint Cafeteria) for a fee of about USD20 per horse which will carry only one person. Horse riding is not recommended on your way down and most owners will not allow it.

After lunch at the Taktsang Cafeteria, we descend back to the base and drive to Thimphu, the only capital city in the world without traffic lights. En-route visit Tamchog Lhakhang, the 15th-century private temple accessible after crossing the iron bridge built by the Tibetan scholar Thangtong Gyalpo to whom this temple is dedicated. This iron bridge is among the very few remaining our of many built by Thangton Gyalpo.

Driving Distance: 55km, Time: 2-Hours, Thimphu Altitude: 2,334m/7,600ft

Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan and home to approximately 115,000 residents. This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country.

On arrival in Thimphu, drive past the Changlimithang Archery Ground and witness archery game if it is in progress. You will see archers showing off their Robin Hood skills dancing and singing each time the target is hit from a whopping distance of 145m. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan.

Overnight at Kuenphen Rabten Resort or Hotel Amodhara.
Day 3 Day 3: Sightseeing In Thimphu / Transfer To Paro (2200M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Sightseeing In Thimphu / Transfer To Paro (2200M)

Today, you’ll visit the tallest sitting Buddha statue located at Kuensel Phodrang overlooking Thimphu valley. Optionally, do a 2-hour leisurely hike from Kuensel Phodrang to Changangkha Lhakhang with a grand view of Thimphu valley. It is relatively a short hiking trail through sparsely populated pine trees offering a perfect opportunity for families and nature lovers to spend their leisure time. At the end of the hike, visit the 12th-century national treasure, Changangkha Lhakhang.

After a traditional lunch at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, visit the National Institute of Zorig Chusum where 13 Bhutanese traditional arts & crafts are taught, see Craft Bazaar along the main Thimphu street and finally drive back to Paro

Distance from Thimphu - Paro 55km, Driving time 1.5-hours, Paro altitude 2200m

Overnight at Paro Village View Home Stay. Located above a quaint village amidst apple orchard overlooking south Paro valley, this homestay is a perfect place to experience the life of an ordinary Bhutanese family. If this homestay is fully booked, similar accommodation will be provided or you can stay at Khangkhu Resort/Bhutan Mandala Resort.
Day 4 Day 4: Paro / Transfer To The First Campsite At Shana Zampa (2850M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Paro / Transfer To The First Campsite At Shana Zampa (2850M)

Today after breakfast, we visit a 15th-century Dzongdrakha Temple perched on a cliff similar to Taktsang monastery but easily accessible. It is located just about 1km away from Paro Village Homestay. We offer prayers for our safe journey ahead and after lunch, drive to the starting point of the trek, Shana Zampa which will also be our first campsite. En route, visit Drukgyal Dzong built to commemorate the victory against the Tibetan-Mongol forces sometime in the 17th century. The trek used to start from Drukgyal Dzong but because of the road, trekkers prefer to drive up to the first campsite.

Distance: 17km | Time 5-6 Hours | Descent: 80m | Camp Altitude: 2,850m/9,350ft

Full-service outdoor camping at Shana
Day 5 Day 5: Shana Zampa / Camp At Thangthangkha (3610M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Shana Zampa / Camp At Thangthangkha (3610M)

Today will be the longest day of the trek but very rewarding. After breakfast, we hit the trail which continues with lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley, it finally narrows gradually to a mere path that descends to a meadow where a camp will be set up. From here, if weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt. Jomolhari.

Distance: 22km, Time 7-8 Hours, Ascent: 770m, Descent: 10m, Camp Altitude: 3,610m/11,845ft

Full-service outdoor camping at Thang Thangka
Day 6 Day 6: Thang Thangkha / Camp At Base Of Mt. Jomolhari, Jangothang (4080M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Thang Thangkha / Camp At Base Of Mt. Jomolhari, Jangothang (4080M)

If you did not see Mt. Jomolhari the previous evening, you will still have a chance to get a great view early this morning. This morning the trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest. You will cross an army checkpoint along the way and enjoy a spectacular view of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages of Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari.

Distance: 19km, Time 5-6 Hours, Ascent: 480m, Camp Altitude: 4,080m/13,385ft

Full-service outdoor camping at Jangothang (Jomolhari Basecamp)
Day 7 Day 7: Halt At Jangothang - Witnessing Mountain Festival At Dangochang (4080M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Halt At Jangothang - Witnessing Mountain Festival At Dangochang (4080M)

Today and tomorrow will be the highlight of the trekking – witnessing the unique Jomolhari Mountain Festival. The festival brings together members of communities in the area to celebrate their local culture and heritage, promote happiness and strengthen social bonds while also creating awareness on the importance of conservation of elusive Snow Leopard with which the local people live in harmony.

Hike 30 – 45mins back to Dangochang where the Jomolhari Mountain Festival takes place.

On the first day of the festival there will be several unique cultural programs such as songs and dances by the local communities. A school of less than 15 students will perform a play that focuses on the Snow Leopard Conservation, and a Snow Leopard dance by the Snow Leopard Conservation group.

You can participate and watch local games like horse race, yak riding, Khuru (dart), shot put and tug of war. There will be stalls selling handicrafts and local delicacies.

In the evening hike back to the Jangothang campsite for night halt.
Day 8 Day 8: Halt At Jangothang - Nature Hike & Festival (4080M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Halt At Jangothang - Nature Hike & Festival (4080M)

Today on the 2nd day of the festival, the program includes scenic hikes led by the locals to various sites around Mount Jomolhari such as twin lakes called Tsophu, the glaciers, and even though the habitat of the endangered Snow Leopard. You will definitely see the primary prey of Snow Leopard, blue sheep, and other wildlife along these day hikes.

In the afternoon, you can witness the cultural programs including traditional folk dances and participate in local games like Khuru (dart), shot put etc.

Back to the campsite for night halt.
Day 9 Day 9: Jangothang / Camp At Soe Yaksa (3800M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Jangothang / Camp At Soe Yaksa (3800M)

The trail leads to the last settlement in the valley and drops to the Paro Chhu. Passing the lake of Tshophu (4,380m) you will climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m, the highest point of this trek route. Reaching the Dhumzo Chhu river, you trek downstream passing the few houses of Soe Yaksa (Dhumzo) to arrive at your camp soon after.

Distance: 16km, Time 6-7 Hours, Ascent: 810m, Descent: 1,090m, Camp Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft

Full-service outdoor camping at Soe Yaksa
Day 10 Day 10: Soe Yaksa / Camp At Thongbu Shong (4180M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Soe Yaksa / Camp At Thongbu Shong (4180M)

The trail climbs 100m over a ridge to drop to another stream then after crossing the Takhung La pass (4,520m) you descent to Thongbu Shong, three yak herder huts with your campsite next to them.

Distance: 11km, Time 4-5 Hours, Ascent: 720m, Descent: 340m, Camp Altitude: 4,180m/13,715ft

Full-service outdoor camping at Thongbu Shong
Day 11 Day 11: Thongbu Shong / Tek Ends At Gunitsawa Village In Paro (2200M)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Thongbu Shong / Tek Ends At Gunitsawa Village In Paro (2200M)

Crossing Thongbu La pass (4,380m) you will finally reach Gunitsawa village where your driver will be waiting for you. This is the point where your trekking staff will bid you farewell. We will then drive to Paro.

Distance: 13km, Time 4-5 Hours, Ascent: 200m, Descent: 650m, Paro Altitude: 2200m/7220ft

Overnight at Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort.
Day 12 Day 12: Departure From Paro International Airport
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Departure From Paro International Airport

After breakfast, depending on your flight departure time you will be transferred to the Paro Internatioal Airport for your onward journey.

12 days tour

Bhutan Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Bhutan Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure

Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport - Excursion In Paro (2200M)

Day 2: Hike To The Famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger’S Nest) / Transfer To The Capital Thimphu (2334M)

Day 3: Sightseeing In Thimphu / Transfer To Paro (2200M)

Day 4: Paro / Transfer To The First Campsite At Shana Zampa (2850M)

Day 5: Shana Zampa / Camp At Thangthangkha (3610M)

Day 6: Thang Thangkha / Camp At Base Of Mt. Jomolhari, Jangothang (4080M)

Day 7: Halt At Jangothang - Witnessing Mountain Festival At Dangochang (4080M)

Day 8: Halt At Jangothang - Nature Hike & Festival (4080M)

Day 9: Jangothang / Camp At Soe Yaksa (3800M)

Day 10: Soe Yaksa / Camp At Thongbu Shong (4180M)

Day 11: Thongbu Shong / Tek Ends At Gunitsawa Village In Paro (2200M)

Day 12: Departure From Paro International Airport

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