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ANCIENT KINGDOM OF BHUTAN PRE TOUR 6 NIGHTS

Combine your Pandaw river expedition with a visit to the ancient Kingdom of Bhutan, one of the world’s most intriguing countries. Discover Bhutan’s famous cliff-top monasteries, soaring mountain peaks and unique way of life.

This is a private tour.

Medium fitness is required for a soft hike on day 5.

DAY 1

PARO - THIMPHU

The journey begins with a breathtaking flight into Paro, offering spectacular Himalayan vistas before a warm welcome with a tashi khaddar (white scarf). We then embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu (55km, approx. 1.5 hours), the unique capital city (2,320m) where modern development coexists with ancient traditions and a complete absence of traffic lights. The evening features a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a prominent white structure with a golden spire where locals gather to circumambulate and spin prayer wheels in daily worship, followed by a stroll through the vibrant main street and market area to soak in the local atmosphere.

DAY 2

THIMPHU

Our exploration starts at the colossal bronze Buddha Dordenma statue, which stands 51.5 metres tall and fulfils an 8th-century prophecy. We then hike through pristine pine forests to Changangkha Lhakhang (approx. 1.5 hours), a 12th-century temple where parents traditionally seek blessings for their newborns. The day continues with deep dives into Bhutanese culture at the Textile Museum and the bustling Centenary Farmers Market, concluding at the majestic Trashichhoedzong, the 'Fortress of the Glorious Religion', which houses the monarch's throne room and serves as the summer residence of the Chief Abbot.

DAY 3

THIMPHU - PUNAKHA

We drive to the picturesque Dochu-la Pass (3,088m) to view the 108 chortens and witness a traditional prayer flag hoisting ceremony against a backdrop of Himalayan peaks. Continuing to Punakha (75km, approx. 2.5 hours), the country's former capital situated in a fertile valley (1,300m), we explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, the 'Palace of Great Happiness', built in 1637 at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers. The day includes a short excursion across rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous 'Temple of Fertility' associated with the 'Divine Madman', where couples have sought blessings for centuries.

DAY 4

PHUNAKA - PARO

Returning to the enchanting valley of Paro (125km, approx. 4 hours; 2,280m), we visit the National Museum housed in the ancient Ta Dzong watchtower and the impressive Rinpung Dzong, or 'Fortress of the Heap of Jewels', renowned for the exquisite Buddhist wall paintings lining its inner courtyards. We then immerse ourselves in rural life with a visit to a traditional farmhouse. Here, amidst vibrant decorations and timber construction built without nails, guests can enjoy local snacks and try their hand at archery, Bhutan’s beloved national sport.

DAY 5

PARO

The highlight of the journey is a hike to the legendary Taktshang Monastery, or 'Tiger's Nest' (approx. 5 hours round trip), which clings precariously to a cliffside 900 metres above the valley floor where Guru Rinpoche is said to have arrived on a tigress. En route back, we visit the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the Himalayas marking the dawn of Buddhism in Bhutan. In the evening, we participate in a sacred butter lamp ceremony at a village monastery, a spiritual ritual using yak butter lamps to symbolise the illumination of wisdom and the dispelling of darkness.

DAY 6

PARO - GUWAHATI

After breakfast transfer Paro International Airport for your flight to Guwahati. Free time in the evening to relax.

DAY 7

DEPARTURE

After breakfast, transfer to your ship.

Le Meridien, Thimpu

Located in the heart of the capital city, Thimphu, the Le Méridien Thimphu invites the discerning guest to engage and discover the legendary 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', Bhutan. The 78 spaciously appointed guest rooms & suites are culturally inspired, yet decidedly chic and contemporary. With cosmopolitan surroundings amidst the bustling commercial streets of the city-centre, and a convenient location to many of the city's myriad attractions, the Le Méridien Thimphu is the perfect jumpstart to that long awaited leisurely holiday.

Classic Room

Chorten Lam, P.O. Box 01286, Thimphu, Kingdom of Bhutan

Tel: +975 2 337788

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Dhensa Resort, Punakha

Dhensa Boutique Resorts sits in the heart of the verdant and lush Punakha Valley. Flanked by thick pine forests, it overlooks the Punakha river and hundreds of paddy fields that stair-step down to the valley floor. It is surrounded by plentiful walking and trekking trails. From Dhensa Punakha, it is just a five-minute trek up the mountain to the magnificent Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, which houses one of the biggest bronze statues of Chenrigzig (Avalokiteshvara) in the country. Dhensa Punakha marries contemporary design with this Himalayan Kingdom’s ancient and alluring ways. At the core of the Dhensa Punakha philosophy lies the sense of innocence and peace that permeates everything about Bhutan.

Suite Room

Wolakha, Punakha, Bhutan

Tel: +975 2 584434

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Zhiwaling Heritage, Paro

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the genuine warmth and comfort of Zhiwaling Heritage, a 5-star hotel seamlessly integrated with nature, culture, and tradition. Nestled in the charming valley of Paro, Zhiwaling Heritage offers a truly exceptional experience, enhancing every aspect of your trip.

Satsam Chorten, Paro, Kingdom of Bhutan

Tel: +975 2 336486

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Vivanta Guwahati

Located on the Guwahati-Shillong highway in the commercial and cultural heart of the capital of Assam, Vivanta Guwahati is an urban retreat designed for global business travellers, adventurers and connoisseurs of the good life. Offering world-class comforts in an environment with a strong local character, our 5 star hotel in Guwahati is uniquely positioned as a gateway to the Seven Sisters.

613, Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva Road, Khanapara, Guwahati, Assam, 781022, Assam

Tel: +91 361-7106710

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Rates include

Bhutan tourism visa, Bhutan Sustainable Development Tax, Six nights accommodation at advertised hotels (or similar based on availability), including breakfast and meals as advertised, excursion and entrance fees as per itinerary, one flight Paro – Guwahati including check-in luggage of 20kg, entrance fees and taxes. Transportation by 7 seat Hyundai Sante Fe or similar.

Meals included

Land tour includes meals as follows; Day 1: Dinner at your hotel, Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Day 3: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Day 4: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Day 5: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, Day 6: Breakfast at hotel, Day 7: Breakfast at hotel.

Price per traveller from

Accommodation Type	Price from per Traveller *
Sharing (2 Pax)	US$7,862
Single (1 Pax)	US$8,395

* Prices per traveller are based on existing rates from our suppliers, however depending on your dates may incur additional increases due to seasonal factors and supplements.

Extension Code: LTID-BH-VAR-GUW-PRE

Note

Please advise arrival/departure flight details in order to arrange the transfer accordingly
The Bhutan visa is included in the price, please send us your passport scan for the application
If you are staying in India before and after Bhutan then a multiple entry visa is required for India
Check in time 14.00 / Check out time 11.00

* Please note that your hotel will be confirmed after we have received your deposit payment. Prices are subject to change. Hotel subject to availability. We will try to offer you an alternate accommodation if the requested hotel would not be available.

Passport Information

Please ensure you send Pandaw a copy of your passport at least 50 days prior to your travel date. Your passport must be:

Ensure that it is the same passport that was used for the Bhutan visa application
The passport validity can't be less than six months
All passport will require at least 2 blank pages in their passport for Bhutan entry and exit stamp