Bhutan with Darjeeling and Sikkim
The Land of the Thunder Dragon

Delhi - Paro - Wangdiphrodang - Punakha -
Thimphu - Phuntsholing - Gangtok - Kalimpong
- Darjeeling - Delhi

About the Program:
Length: 13 days
Min/max: 6/15
Tour type: Cultural expedition

The beauty of the Himalayas is superbly displayed in these three destinations.

First we visit Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, until recently an inaccessible Himalayan kingdom. Its people have kept alive their local culture and ancient customs, from traditional woven garments to prayer flags on high mountain slopes and religious masked dances. We visit the visually stunning and historically fascinating Paro Valley and Thimphu, the capital city with spectacular forts and monasteries.

Our journey continues with a visit to Kalimpong, Sikkim and Darjeeling - three of the most beautiful towns in the eastern Himalayas.

Draped along the highest points of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is a land of eternal fascination. Ancient bazaars and gilded shrines to Hindu gods and Lord Buddha portray the cultural development of its gentle, friendly people.

The tiny state of Sikkim has a pristine and unspoiled natural beauty. Here crimson-robed lamas chant sacred mantras to the rhythmic drumming of ancient cultures.

• Domestic air and land transportation
• Transfers in each city
• 4&5-star hotels in major centers and best available in remote areas
• Meals
• Sightseeing and entrance fees
• Service of English-speaking guides
• Travel manual

• International Airfare
• Bhutan visa fee (paid upon landing)
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
• Gratuities to guides, drivers, porters and hotel staff
• Personal expenses, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, tips, telephone, etc.

DAILY ITINERARY

Day 1,Sat. Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Welcome dinner.
D The Claridges Hotel

Day 2, Sun. Delhi/Paro
Fly to Paro, in the beautiful western valley of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Walk through Paro’s local market.
B/L/D Kichu Resort

Day 3, Mon. Paro
Visit Drukgyel Dzong, famed fortress of the victorious Drupas, and 200-year-old Ta Dzong, the National Museum.
B/L/D Kichu Resort

Day 4, Tue. Paro/Wangdiphrodang/Paro
Drive to the hilltop town of Wangdiphrodang with its magnificent dzong.
B/L/D Kichu Resort

Day 5, Wed. Paro/Punakha/Thimphu
Excursion to Punakha, Bhutan’s winter capital. Drive on to Thimphu, capital of the Kingdom and seat of the Royal Family. Explore this small and secluded city on foot.
B/L/D Hotel Riverview

Day 6, Thu. Thimphu
Spend some leisure time in Thimphu visiting nearby villages and local families.
B/L/D Hotel Riverview


Day 7, Fri. Thimphu/Phuntsholing
Drive to the border town of Phuntsholing. Visit beautiful Kharbandi Gompa and Zangtopelri Lhakhang.
B/L/D Hotel Druk

Day 8, Sat. Phuntsholing/Gangtok
Today enjoy the scenic drive to Gangtok through Teesta Valley to the fairy-tale town of Gangtok, capital city of Sikkim. Visit Rumtek Monastery en route.
B/L/D Netuk House

Day 9, Sun. Gangtok
Visit Enchey Monastery, Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten and market.
B/L/D Netuk House

Day 10, Mon. Gangtok/Kalimpong/Darjeeling
Drive to colourful Kalimpong where you will see a medley of diverse mountain people. Continue on to Darjeeling.
B/L/D Hotel New Elgin

Day 11,Tue. Darjeeling
Visit Tiger Hill for a spectacular sunrise view behind Everest. Other highlights include Ghoom Monastery, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and a tea plantation.
B/L/D Hotel New Elgin

Day 12, Wed. Darjeeling/Bagdogra/Delhi
Drive to Bagdogra airport for your flight to Delhi. Overnight at the airport hotel.
B/L/D Ashok Airport Hotel

Day 13, Thu. Depart Delhi
Depart Delhi today on your return journey home.
B

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