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Enchanted Journey of the Thunder Dragon – Bhutan

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  • Over 30 years experience
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12 days, 11 nights
Availability : March - May and October - November
Min Age : 10+
Max People : 12

On this journey to Bhutan, learn about the handicrafts, costumes and ancient weapons in the National Museum near Paro. Hike to the legendary Taktshang Monastery, also called Tiger’s Nest, on a trail through pine trees festooned with Spanish moss and occasional fluttering prayer flags. The capital city, Thimphu, is a gallery of traditional Bhutanese culture. Explore the Thimphu market to shop for handicrafts and immerse with locals in their daily routines.

Continue your journey to Bhutan by heading east to Trongsa Dzong, overlooking the cascading Mangde River. Engage with Bhutanese people in Chumey Valley while they practice daily livelihoods such as traditional weaving of woolen fabrics. Immerse in a wondrous environment on hikes to some of the holiest places. The serene views are continuous throughout Phobjikha Valley and on the return journey to Paro.

The tranquil kingdom of Bhutan is often called the “last Shangri-La.” Come see why Bhutan is one of the most intriguing and unique of the world’s destinations.

If you don’t have as much time, check out our shorter Essence of Bhutan program.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Visit the cliff hanging Tiger’s Nest
  • Explore monasteries and palaces of Paro, Thimpu and Punakha
  • Experience Bhutan’s natural beauty in the Phobjikha and Bumthang valleys

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

All our Enchanted Journey of the Thunder Dragon programs are private journeys for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.

We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

OverviewItineraryCostMapPhotosOptionsFAQReviews

Get introduced to Bhutan with handicrafts, costumes and ancient weapons in the National Museum near Paro. Hike to the legendary Taktshang Monastery, also called Tiger’s Nest, on a trail through pine trees festooned with Spanish moss and occasional fluttering prayer flags.

The capitol city, Thimphu, is a gallery of traditional Bhutanese culture. Explore the Thimphu market to shop for handicrafts and immerse with locals in their daily routines.

Continue across Bhutan to Trongsa Dzong, overlooking the cascading Mangde River. Engage with Bhutanese people in Chumey Valley while they practice daily livelihoods such as traditional weaving of woolen fabrics. Immerse in a wondrous environment on hikes to some of the holiest places. The serene views are continuous throughout Phobjikha Valley and on the return journey to Paro.

The tranquil kingdom of Bhutan is often called the “last Shangri-La.” Come see why Bhutan is one of the most intriguing and unique of the world’s destinations.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Visit the cliff hanging Tiger’s Nest
  • Explore monasteries and palaces of Paro, Thimpu and Punakha
  • Experience Bhutan’s natural beauty in the Phobjikha and Bumthang valleys
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Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary

Day Description Overnight Altitude
Day 1 Arrival in Paro. Drive to Thimpu. Thimpu 2,320m/7,700ft
Day 2 Explore Thimpu. Thimpu 2,320m/7,700ft
Day 3 Drive to Punakha. Punakha 1,310m/4,430ft
Day 4 Drive to Trongsa. Trongsa 3,120m/10,300ft
Day 5 Drive to Bumthang Bumthang 2,800m/9,200ft
Day 6 Explore Bumthang Bumthang 2,800m/9,200ft
Day 7 Drive to Gangtey Gangtey 3,120m/10,300ft
Day 8 Explore Gangtey Gangtey 3,120m/10,300ft
Day 9 Drive to Thimpu Thimpu 2,320m/7,700ft
Day 10 Drive to Paro Paro 2,280m/7,475ft
Day 11 Explore Paro Paro 2,280m/7,475ft
Day 12 Final departure    
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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1Bangkok to Paro

Depart early from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. Rejuvenate with refreshments at the hotel.

Drive to nearby Ta-Dzong, where you’ll be introduced to Bhutan with a visit to the National Museum which houses art, handicrafts, costumes and ancient weapons displays. Stroll the streets of Paro in the evening.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 2Paro to Thimpu

Depart Paro for Thimphu (two-hour drive) after breakfast. Thimphu, the Bhutanese capital, is situated in a valley surrounded by terraced rice fields. The main street in Thimphu, Norzim Lam, is lined with shops. Visit Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Drive to Drubthop Lhakhang, the nunnery temple. Learn more about the culture through visits to the Bhutanese Indigenous Hospital and Traditional Painting School.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 3Thimpu to Punakha

Drive to Punakha after breakfast at the hotel. The road climbs steeply through a scenic forest of pine and cedar trees, to Dochula pass (10,000 feet). The pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, on the descent to the fertile valley of Punakha (4,430 feet).

Before proceeding further to the town of Punakha, hike about 30 minutes to the Chimi Lhakhang (temple) on a small hilltop. The temple was dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century, known as Drukpa Kuenley, as well as the “Divine madman.” He dramatized Buddhist teachings using songs and outrageous sexual humor. Bold phallus symbols and paintings on the houses and temples are a result of his influence. It is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility.

After lunch, continue to Punakha Dzong (fortress) situated between the two rivers, Pho Chu and Mochu (male and female river). The fortress is now used as the winter seat of Je Khenpo (the spiritual head of Bhutan). The Dzong served as the capital seat of the Kingdom for more than 300 years. The intricate Buddhist paintings inside the monastery are spectacular.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 4Punakha to Trongsa

The drive to Trongsa is approximately six hours. Climb steadily through semi-tropical vegetation to Pele la Pass (10,989 feet). Views of the snow-capped peaks, including Mount Chomolhari (23,996 feet), is possible during clear weather. Descend from Pele la Pass through dwarf bamboo forests to Chendebji Chorten. According to legend, this stupa was built in the 18th century by a Lama, to nail a demon into the ground that had been terrorizing the inhabitants of the valley. Continuing our drive to Trongsa, we’ll come to the Trongsa Valley, where the huge fortress of Trongsa dominates the entire landscape on the journey. The view from the fortress, also called Dzong, extends for miles. Nothing could escape the vigilance of its watchmen in ancient times.

Overnight at hotel. (All meals)

Day 5Trongsa to Bumthang

See the majestic Trongsa Dzong, situated on a mountain spur overlooking the cascading Mangde River. In ancient times, this fortress served as the capitol for the governors of eastern Bhutan and later it served as the capitol of the first and second king of Bhutan. Continue from Trongsa to Bumthang. The road ascends to Yotong La Pass (11,200 feet). Travel downhill to Chumey Valley (8,800 feet) from Yotong La Pass. In Chumey Valley, experience traditional weaving of woolen fabrics in the small village of Tsugney. Cross the Kiki La Pass (9,500 feet) on the way to Choekhor.

Overnight at hotel. (All meals)

Day 6Explore Bumthang valley

Take in a visit to one of the holiest temples in the country, Kurjey Lhakhang. It is believed that in the eighth century, Guru Padmasambhava, meditated here. Begin a hike here to visit Padmasambhava Lhakhang, another renowned meditation site of Guru Padmasambhava. Padmasambhava Lhakhang was founded by Terton (treasure seeker) Pema Lingpa in the 15th century and was restored by the Grand Queen Mother of the present King. Continue the refreshing hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in the early 16th century by Terton Pema Lingpa. Conclude the hike at Konchogsum Lhakhang, a temple famous for its bell, which bears an inscription from when it was built in the eighth century.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 7Bumthang to Gangtey

Return to Phobjikha Valley through Trongsa. After crossing the Pele La pass, we will make a left turn on another road that will lead us to the expansive and beautiful valley of Phobjikha. The valley serves as the winter home for the rare black-necked cranes that migrate from the plateau of Tibet when it gets extremely cold.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 8Explore Phobjikha valley

A peaceful hike leads us through a local village on the way to the Gangtey Monastery. Continue downhill into the picturesque Phobjikha valley. We will continue our hike to the hotel where we will be served with our lunch. The remainder of the day is free to explore the village or observe the black-necked cranes when they have migrated from Tibet.

Overnight at hotel. (All meals)

Day 9Gangtey to Thimpu

Make the scenic return drive to the capitol city of Thimpu.

Overnight Hotel. (All meals)

DAY 10 Thimpu to Paro

Relax with breakfast before the return drive to Paro. Drive to Satsham Chorten, built in memory of the late Dilgo Khentse Rimpoche, and continue on to Kyichu Lhakhang, built in the seventh century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gonpo. Take a leisurely hike down to Rimpung Dzong. The hike includes a traditional bridge to cross the stunning river below.

Overnight at hotel. (All meals)

DAY 11 Paro (Tiger's Nest hike)

Begin the day with breakfast before a short drive to Taktshang Monastery. The trail to the monastery climbs through pine trees festooned with Spanish moss and occasional fluttering prayer flags. Hike at your own pace for about two to four hours.

Built in 1600s, the monastery clings to the edge of a sheer-rock cliff that plunges 2,952 feet into the valley below. It is believed that, in the 8th century, Guru Rimpoche, the tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tigress to subdue a demon. Guru Rimpoche is believed to have meditated here for three months. Packed lunch will be served.

Drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, the fortress of the victorious Drukpas. From Drukgyel Dzong, the Tibet border is only a two-day hike away.

Overnight at Hotel. (All meals)

Day 12Depart for home

Transfer to airport for flight home. (Breakfast)

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Detailed Cost Information

Per person Price – valid till Dec 31, 2023
2 persons: $ 4,700 USD per person
3 or more persons: $ 4,270 USD per person
Single Supplement: $ 650 USD

Prices above are based on the best 3 star accommodations available. Upgrades to 4 or 5 star accommodations would be upwards of US$1,500  depending on hotels selected. Please contact us for details of options available.

Extra – Airfare into Paro (subject to change):

Bangkok–Paro–Bangkok: USD 974.60 (Economy Class) and USD 1092 (Business Class).

Kathmandu–Paro–Kathmandu: USD 412.60 (Economy Class) and USD 476.60 (Business Class).

Kolkotta–Paro–Kolkotta: USD 412.60 (Economy Class) and USD 476.60 (Business Class).

Delhi–Paro–Delhi: USD 625.40 (Economy Class) and USD 778.40 (Business Class).

 

 

Price Includes

  • Expert pre-trip advice and detailed information
  • Meeting and assistance at airport and transfers to hotels
  • All in-country transportation
  • Meals as indicated on itinerary
  • Tours and excursions outlined on itinerary
  • Bhutan Visa and Tourism Development Fee
 
 

Price Excludes

  • Your international airfare
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance (Required)
  • Other expenses of a personal nature (soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, internet, battery charging, comfort food etc.)
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Trip Gallery
  • Bridge
  • Tiger's Nest
  • View from Dochula
  • Tiger's Nest, Paro
  • Rimpung Dzong in Paro
  • Thimpu - the capital
  • Thimpu town
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Punakha Dzong

Options

This itinerary is fully customizable for a party of two or more participants. Contact us for details.

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

How would I obtain a Bhutan visa?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners. We will obtain a Bhutan permit for you prior to you trip begin date. You must carry this permit with you in person and present it prior to boarding the plane to Paro (either in Kathmandu, Delhi or Bangkok). You will be required to present it again at the immigration in Paro.

What is the food like on this trip?

Thimpu and Paro in Bhutan offers multiple culinary options. But they may limited in other regions of Bhutan. The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy.

Rice forms staple Bhutanese diet. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are consumed most often.

When is the best time to visit Bhutan?

There are two preferred seasons to visit Bhutan: Spring (March through May) and Fall (October through December).

Is there a limit to the number of tourists allowed into Bhutan each year?

This is actually a myth. There is NO limit on the number of tourists allowed to visit in a year. Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact ” tourism policy. If you can PAY for the trip, you can go.

Are there ATM's available? Are credit cards accepted?

Paro and Thimpu in Bhutan do have ATM facilities. But do be careful that the ATM machines may not always be working. So it is a good idea to always some USD/EURO or GBP currency in cash.

All big hotels and shops will accept credit card payments but will also charge a 3-4%.

Read More

Related Tours

Renjo La - Gokyo Lakes

Gokyo Lakes Trek

From$2,450
18 days, 17 nights
Availability : March - June and October - December

Activity: Lodge Trek
Destination: Everest
Country: Nepal

GOKYO LAKES TREK

The Gokyo Lakes trek is a great alternative for those who wish to avoid the popular (and busy) trail to Everest Base Camp. Moreover, the views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft.) and Renjo La pass (5,465m /17,930ft) are arguably better than those from Kalapathar. A little above Namche, the trail to Gokyo splits from the trail to the Everest Base Camp. Head North, following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Ngozumpa glacier. Trekking to the Gokyo Lakes allows you to enjoy views of giants such as Everest, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku, Tarboche, Cholatse etc.

Mountain view from Renjo La pass
Mountain view from Renjo La pass just above Gokyo Lake

THE TREK

From Namche, head north west following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Gokyo Lakes.  The Gokyo Lakes trek culminates at Gokyo on the banks of the third lake. Here, we will spend three nights exploring the area. On our second day at Gokyo, hike to either Gokyo Ri or Renjo La pass for views of the lakes and the mountains (see photo above). On the third day, hike to the 5th lakes for up-close views of Cho Oyu and other mountains.

It is possible to combine trekking to the Gokyo Lake with the Everest Base Camp trek. Check out our 19-day Everest Base Camp Trek or the 15-day Everest Base Camp – fast paced trek. Also, if you have more time and wish to be more adventurous, check out the Ultimate Everest Trek. This involves crossing two passes: the Cho La pass (Everest Base Camp to Gokyo lake) and the Renjo La pass (from Gokyo lake to Thame). Furthermore, an even more physically challenging trek is the Everest Three Passes Trek. No climbing skills are required for these treks. We are also happy to customize any of these treks for you. Click on the options tab to check out more options.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are quite comparable to those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And quite a few of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Everest treks.

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the trekking to the Gokyo Lakes are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to do this trek in Winter months of December, January and February if you do not intend to cross the passes. While it will obviously be very cold (upto -20 C/, -4 F), it will be less crowded and there aren’t as many trekkers in the area.

TREK RATING

The Gokyo Lakes trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). While the highest altitude reached is at Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), the highest overnight elevation is at Gokyo Lakes (4,750m/15,500 feet) which is much lower than on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours on the day hike to the 5th lakes. It is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Gokyo Lakes Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.

We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

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Makalu and Base Camp

Makalu Base Camp Trek

From$3,060
21 days, 20 nights
Availability : April - May and October - November

Activity: Trekking
Destination: Makalu
Country: Nepal

MAKALU BASE CAMP TREK

On the Makalu Base Camp trek, participants get up-close with the fifth highest mountain in the world – Mt. Makalu (8,485m). Eric Shipton was the first outsider to have trekked in the region in the 1950’s. Consequently, the Shipton Pass on this trek was named after him. The first climb on Makalu was made by an American team led by Riley Keegan and Sierra Club members including Bill Long and Allen Steck. They attempted via the southeast ridge but they turned back at 23,300 ft. due to bad weather. The first ascent of Makalu was by a French expedition team on May 15, 1955.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek starts at a relatively lower elevation which is home to Rai’s, Gurung’s and Tamang people. The last permanent settlement is Tashigaon which is the home of the Sherpa people. Ascending slowly, the trek follows a trail through the beautiful Makalu Barun National Park which is home to diverse flora and fauna. Continue to trek past the Barun river along spectacular granite rocks, pastures and waterfalls.

The Trek

The Makalu Base Camp trek is quickly emerging as a popular trekking destination especially among trekkers who prefer solitude. Trekking to Makalu is a great alternative to the more busier treks in the Everest and Annapurna region. And with daily flights available to Tumlingtar, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is also quite easily accessible. It has all the makings of an epic Himalayan trek including stunning snow-clad mountain scenery, high passes, intriguing mix of Nepal’s culture and soaring Himalayan peaks.

The journey begins with a 35-minute flight to Tumlingtar from where we drive to the road-head on a chartered vehicle. The lower parts of the Makalu region are quite hot and humid with lush rhododendron and oak forests, cardamom plantations. Ascend slowly over several passes and follow the Barun river valley to the Makalu Base Camp. Return to Tumlingtar is along the same trail but vistas are quite spectacular in both directions. For more information, do check out Jwalant’s blog: My Makalu Base Camp Trek

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a combo Lodge Trek/Camping Trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail and also in tents where necessary. The lodges on this trek are quite basic. Meals are not as varied as on the Everest or the Annapurna treks but options do include rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. On this trek, we will carry some food to supplement what’s available at the local lodges and a certified trekking cook will accompany the group to prepare more varied meals. Furthermore, we will also carry tents so you may opt to sleep in tents in some of the more basic places.

Video of our monsoon trek (June) to Makalu Base Camp:

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Makalu Base Camp trek are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November).

TREK RATING

The Makalu Base Camp trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). While it does NOT involve crossing 5,000 meter mountain passes, it is probably the MOST CHALLENGING trek in Nepal in terms of daily elevation gain/loss. No technical climbing experience is required but some sections of the trail (all stair-cases) are almost 50 degrees steep. The highest overnight altitude reached is at Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m/15,750ft) and the highest elevation reached is at the view point above base camp (5,300m/17,400 feet). There are two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization.

Trekking to Makalu involves average daily hiking or around 6 hours with a few longer days of around 7-8 hours. Also, this is a relatively long trek in a remote area. Regardless of the rating, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a private trek for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff. We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

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