Bhutan is breathtaking. Beautiful. Vibrant.
Some say that it is as close to shambala, or paradise, that is possible on Earth.
It is a land that is nowhere near ordinary. With Medieval roots fusing with modern amenities and opportunities to explore, it is a place that warmly invites one and all to embrace the hospitality that is offered. There is a considerable effort in place to maintain the heart and soul of Bhutan and this can be seen along its streets and its natural wonders.
You will find solitary trails whispering for an early morning trek. There are isolated places where human feet have rarely tread. There are places in Bhutan where you can hike for days at a time and never encounter another soul. Maybe it really is paradise. There’s only one way to find out and that’s to explore the invitation that has been offered
Come and join us this Dec 2019 for a taste of Bhutan while it undergoes changing of season in December, where the town is vibrant in preparation for the winter and special visitors from the sky are abound.
Phobjikha Valley- Beautiful bowl-shaped glacial valley located against a background of the Black Mountains, the Phobjikha Valley in Bhutan is a treat for those with a deep affection for nature. Considered one of the primary wildlife preserves in Bhutan, it is a home to large flock of black-necked cranes, wild boars, sambars, serows, Himalayan black bears, muntjacs (barking deer), leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills.
Punakha Dzong- The fortress is both the second oldest and second largest dzong in the Kingdom. Widely acknowledged as the most artistic and aesthetically pleasing dzong in Bhutan, the nearly 400 year old fortress boasts a stunning six story central tower, whitewashed walls below gorgeous and intricately carved wood-line accents, and timber window panes.
BLACK-NECKED CRANE OR THRUNG TRUNG KARMO
‘Thrung Trung Karmo' as this bird is passionately known in Bhutan is the subject of many Bhutanese songs and folklore. The birds are considered as the holy messenger, symbol of peace and prosperity. These graceful birds are so culturally important that they’re seen among the paintings on the walls of home, temples and Thangkas.
Farmers believe the birds’ presence ensures a healthy crop and tourists travel from around the world to see them. The wetland in the center of Phobjekha valley provides the nesting grounds and natural habitat for these black necked cranes. Black Necked Crane Information Centre is situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjekha, it has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The center also offers information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area.
Farmers believe the birds’ presence ensures a healthy crop and tourists travel from around the world to see them. The wetland in the center of Phobjekha valley provides the nesting grounds and natural habitat for these black necked cranes. Black Necked Crane Information Centre is situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjekha, it has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The center also offers information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area.
Takstang or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Considered the most iconic landmark of Bhutan and not to be missed. because of its stunning location and it is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is said to be one of the most important places in Buddhism. The monastery was built around the meditation cave in 1684 by the Penlop of Paro and although a fire destroyed most of the original buildings in 1998, these have since been painstakingly restored to their former glory.
Considered the most iconic landmark of Bhutan and not to be missed. because of its stunning location and it is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is said to be one of the most important places in Buddhism. The monastery was built around the meditation cave in 1684 by the Penlop of Paro and although a fire destroyed most of the original buildings in 1998, these have since been painstakingly restored to their former glory.
*Photos Credit: Bhutan 2018 team
Bhutan Unlimited Itinerary: 7D/6N
15 Dec: Paro to Thimphu (L/D)
Arrive at Paro via Bhutan International Airport. We will meet the guide and drive for an hour along the beautiful river valley toward Thimpu. Stops along the way include Taachog Lhakhang, which is a magnificent 15th century temple, and then take a walk along the river. Overnight in Thimpu.
16 Dec : Thimphu to Punakha (B/L/D)
Today after breakfast we will drive approximately 3 and half hour to Punakha through Dochula pass at 3100 meters, where you can have a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. The view is especially scenic on clear, winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
After a tea break we will gradually head onward journey and 9kms before we reach Punakha we will start a short 15 minutes hike towards the Chimi Lhakhang, which is a fertility temple dedicated to the Divine Madman Lama Drukpa Kuenley. The temple is well known for its high success rate in fertility blessing and uniquely distinct ceremony.
We will end the day with a hike to Khamsum Yeley Chorten through rice terraces, farms, and a deep pine forest. A breath taking landscape await the adventurer. Overnight in Punakha.
17 Dec : Punakha to Gangtey Valley (B/L/D)
We starts the day with a drive towards the northeast of Wang Due Phodrang where lies Phobjekha Valley. At an elevation of 9,500 feet (3000 m), the U shaped glacial valley is a scenic splendour and cultural uniqueness. A short trek bring us through flower meadows to Semchubara village and from here through beautiful forests and into the open valley.
On the drive into the valley we will also visit the historic Gangtey Goempa monastery, a 16th century monastery situated picturesquely at the hilltop at the edge of Gangtey village, making it the landmark structure of Phobjekha valley. Overnight at the valley
18 Dec: Phobjekha Valley BLACK-NECKED CRANE OR THRUNG TRUNG KARMO (B/L/D)
We will spend a day to explore the unique valley which is also a home of the migrating black necked crane. Overnight at the valley
19 Dec: Punakha to Paro (B/L/D)
Today we travel back to Paro passing through Dochula pass and making a stopover at Punakha Dzong, a beautiful traditional location which is guaraded by two rivers: Pho Chu and Mo Chu. The Dzong is the winter capital for the head of the monk body. Also the coronation of a new king is always held there. Overnight in Paro.
20 Dec: Hike to Paro Taktsang (B/L/D)
Known as the “Tiger’s Nest” outside of Bhutan, Taktsang is one of the most famous monasteries in the world. This hillside complex was first built in the late 17th century. Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for over three years in one of the caves here. It is a challenging 5-hour round-trip trek, but one with many rewards. Return to Paro afterward for last-minute shopping. Overnight in Paro.
21 Dec: Drive to Paro Airport
On the final day, we will depart for the airport after breakfast and say goodbye to the paradise that is Bhutan
*Trekking grade: 1-1.5 for the day hike, grade 2 for Tiger's Nest
(https://www.liveopenly.net/adventures-unlimiteds-trail-grading.html)
Cost: 3750SGD (TRIP IS NOw CONFIRMED). Clean cost no additional fee required beside personal spending.
Deposit of SGD 1000 to confirm your slot*
Due to Dec being one of the high season in Bhutan, all registration has to be confirmed latest by middle of July 2019.
*NOTE: if the event is cancelled due to low sign up by end of Jul 2019, all payment will be refunded.
Flight and visa to Bhutan will be processed after the trip is confirmed in July 2019.
What does your package include?
1. Minimum 3 star accommodation (Twin Sharing only)
2. Daily royalty fee of USD 65 per person per day to the government.
3. All meals as indicated
4. All land transports
5. Professional english speaking guide and drivers
6. All entry fee to parks and museum
7. Daily mineral water
8. Return flight inclusive of airport taxes (SG-BKK-PARO)
9. Visa Processing assistance
10. All local tax and service charges
Not Included
Personal expenses (estimated ~100SGD spending on average for snacks/alcohol and souvenirs)
Tips for drivers and Guide
Deposit of SGD 1000 to confirm your slot*
Due to Dec being one of the high season in Bhutan, all registration has to be confirmed latest by middle of July 2019.
*NOTE: if the event is cancelled due to low sign up by end of Jul 2019, all payment will be refunded.
Flight and visa to Bhutan will be processed after the trip is confirmed in July 2019.
What does your package include?
1. Minimum 3 star accommodation (Twin Sharing only)
2. Daily royalty fee of USD 65 per person per day to the government.
3. All meals as indicated
4. All land transports
5. Professional english speaking guide and drivers
6. All entry fee to parks and museum
7. Daily mineral water
8. Return flight inclusive of airport taxes (SG-BKK-PARO)
9. Visa Processing assistance
10. All local tax and service charges
Not Included
Personal expenses (estimated ~100SGD spending on average for snacks/alcohol and souvenirs)
Tips for drivers and Guide
Registration and Payment Details:
Step 1: Deposit of $1000 via ATM/Bank transfer to ADVENTURES UNLIMITED, DBS CURRENT A/C - 0039351950.
Step 2: Whatapp proof of payment receipt to Jane at +65 9102 0550(IMPORTANT: PLEASE INDICATE "(2019 12 15 BHUTAN)"!!!).
Step 3: Receipt for payment will be issued and further instruction will be provided for visa application.
Step 4: Remaining Balance will be collected by September 2019 and you will be added into a dedicated whatsapp chat for this trip by Aug 2019.
Refund Policy
Deposit (non-refundable)
Until 20 weeks prior to departure – 100% Refund of balance paid
16 weeks prior to departure – 50% Refund of balance paid
Less than 16 weeks prior to departure – 0% Refund of balance paid
Others:
1. This event is organised by Adventures Unlimited (TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.
2. Insurance
From 15 July 2015, a travel agent is required to inform and ask attending participants if it is their wish to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for business insolvency of travel agencies when:
– they are buying a leisure travel product/package; or
– their travel product/package costs at least S$1,000 (including GST) per person; or
– they are paying a deposit or payment of at least S$500 per person.
Step 1: Deposit of $1000 via ATM/Bank transfer to ADVENTURES UNLIMITED, DBS CURRENT A/C - 0039351950.
Step 2: Whatapp proof of payment receipt to Jane at +65 9102 0550(IMPORTANT: PLEASE INDICATE "(2019 12 15 BHUTAN)"!!!).
Step 3: Receipt for payment will be issued and further instruction will be provided for visa application.
Step 4: Remaining Balance will be collected by September 2019 and you will be added into a dedicated whatsapp chat for this trip by Aug 2019.
Refund Policy
Deposit (non-refundable)
Until 20 weeks prior to departure – 100% Refund of balance paid
16 weeks prior to departure – 50% Refund of balance paid
Less than 16 weeks prior to departure – 0% Refund of balance paid
Others:
1. This event is organised by Adventures Unlimited (TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.
2. Insurance
From 15 July 2015, a travel agent is required to inform and ask attending participants if it is their wish to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for business insolvency of travel agencies when:
– they are buying a leisure travel product/package; or
– their travel product/package costs at least S$1,000 (including GST) per person; or
– they are paying a deposit or payment of at least S$500 per person.
Photo credits: Ronald Tagra (Flickr.com)
