Land Tour
11 days
$AUD 1,568 per day
Departure: Paro, Bhutan
Arrival: Paro, Bhutan
Private / Tailor made
The Ultimate Luxury Journey In Bhutan.
This sensational 10 night luxury journey through Bhutan features a complimentary domestic air flight between central Bumthang & Paro therefore reducing driving times to a minimum. Furthermore it offers a complimentary traditional Bhutanese therapeutic hot stone bath in the delightful Phobjikha valley.
The Bhutan & Beyond team have had the great fortune to have personally experienced all 5 of the wonderful Amankora luxury lodges. Amankora is the pinnacle Bhutan has to offer the discerning traveller. This tour combines the very best the Kingdom of Bhutan will reward you with in the west & central regions.
Amankora Luxury Journey 10 night Itinerary Overview:
Your flight to Bhutan offers a wonderful introduction as it weaves through the valley before landing at Paro Airport. After clearing customs & immigration meet your private Amankora professional guide & driver for a 1.5 hour SUV transfer to Amankora Thimphu, a 16-suite lodge. Amankora Thimphu lies in a steep pine forested valley, above Thimphu city, and at an altitude of 2,350 metres (7,709 feet).
Take an afternoon orientation tour of Thimphu city. Options include the celebrated Royal Textiles Academy; a “kora” at the National Memorial Chorten and the Takin Preserve. This is home to Bhutan’s most unusual national mammal. Alternatively relax and sample the delights of the lodge and its spa.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Thimphu
This morning visit the awesome Buddha Dordenma statue located at Kuenselphodrang. The statue is made of bronze and gilded in gold. It is considered the largest Buddha Shakyamuni statue in the world. There is also an excellent 3 km hike option through Kuenselphodrang Nature Park which offers sensational valley views.
Next head north up the valley to view the majestic Trashichh Dzong and visit the Tara Lhaden Zhingkham lhakang (temple).
This afternoon other places of interest to visit are Zorig Chusum – the Institute of the 13 Arts & Crafts of Bhutan (where you can interact with the students); the Folk Heritage Museum; the Craft Bazaar and the National Library, which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts. The Centenary market is a colourful affair where everyone gs to buy an array of fresh fruits & vegetables, local handicrafts & home-wares and clothing.
Don’t forget to take a wander along Thimphu’s main street, Norzin Lam, which offers good shopping and the Craft Bazaar. For those who have an interest in quality weavings and local art check out the Gagyel Lhundrup weaving centre, where you can interact with the weavers, and the adjacent S. Bishwa art gallery.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Thimphu.
Depart Thimphu and drive eastwards over Dochu La (pass-3116m) viewing the 108 stupas. On clear days witness the magnificent eastern Himalaya vista.
Descending into the Punakha valley visit the Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the ‘monastery of the Mad Monk’. This auspicious fertility monastery built in 1499 enjoys a very colourful history which your guide will explain to you. It is still a place of important cultural significance today where females come to receive a ‘wang’, a fertility blessing to aid pregnancy.
At an altitude of 1,300 metres (4,265 feet), Punakha Valley is one of the lowest lying valleys in Bhutan and enjoys a warmer climate. Amankora Punakha is accessed via a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu (river) and a short ride by buggy takes you to the lodge. The facilities comprise a former royal farmhouse combined with modern 12 suite accommodation and spa facilities. All set among delightful paddy fields and fruit plantations.
This afternoon enjoy a short hike or horse ride in the valley, spend time mixing with the locals in the town or relax and enjoy the delights of the lodge and spa.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Punakha
The day in Punakha Valley begins with a hike through terraces of rice, chillies and cabbage along the banks of the Mo Chhu (river) to the upper end of the valley. Here you will find the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten. This is a stunning monument built by a former Queen of Bhutan to protect the current 5th King from perceived misfortunes.
After lunch visit the very impressive Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s best, and home to the remains of Bhutan’s first ruler, Shabdrung Narwang Namgyal. It is also the winter residence of the Monk Body of Bhutan. If time permits drive to the nearby village of Talo, via a stop at the local nunnery, and wander through the beautiful grounds of the village temple.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Punakha
Continue eastwards to Phobjikha via Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. The road follows the scenic Dang Chhu (river) before climbing through forests of bamboo and oak.
Finally a small side road splinters off into the very beautiful hidden Phobjikha Valley. At an altitude of 3,000 metres (9,842 feet), this glacial valley is home of the rural settlement of Gangtey. On a forested knoll close to the valley floor is the very special Amankora Gangtey, an intimate 8-suite lodge.
After lunch visit the striking Gangtey Gmpa sitting at the head of the valley. After that take a stroll through the quaint Gangtey village.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Gangtey
Phobjikha Valley Experiences.
This morning will start with a visit to the Black Neck Crane Centre. Depending on the season, time spent in the centre’s nearby hide is a must to view the breeding cranes. The cranes are an endangered species who arrive from Tibet in late October and depart again in early March. After lunch hike the valley Nature Trail, a 1.5-2 hour easy walk along the valley floor.
Alternatively, we can start the day with a moderate grade hike across meadows and fields that ascend to the Tselela pass through mixed forest of Juniper, Bamboo, Magnolia and Rhododendron. Meet the people of Gogona who speak a language called Bjopkha – the language of nomads. Their life in this isolated valley has encouraged them to continue using their ancient dialect. Visit the Gogona Gmpa and after a picnic lunch, walk back the same route to Gangtey. Note – guests can shorten treks after a certain point and travel back by SUV to take late lunch at the lodge.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Gangtey
This morning depart Phobjikha to the central Bumthang region comprising the 4 valleys Chkhor, Tang, Ura and Chhume. Traverse the Pele La (Pass) which crosses through the Black Mountains National Park and divides western and central Bhutan. Keep a watchful eye out for Rhesus Macaques (Brown Monkeys) on the side of the road.
Stop en-route at Trongsa and visit the excellent Tower of Trongsa Museum. The Trongsa Dzong is perched at the end of a ridge and seems to hang in space at the head of the valley. The Dzongs location afforded it great power over this part of the country as the only foot and mule trail between east and western Bhutan leads straight through Trongsa and through the Dzong itself.
On arrival in the Bumthang region notice the large fields of buckwheat that cover the valleys, buckwheat noodles and pancakes are a Bumthang speciality.
Enjoy a picnic lunch and stop at the excellent weaving & textiles centre at Chhume valley. Here you can interact with the weavers and shop for a wide range of handicrafts for which this region is renowned for.
Take the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the wonderful Amankora facilities & spa . Alternatively take a wander through nearby Chamkhar town; a lively spot to mingle with the locals.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Bumthang
Today your sightseeing includes visits to the Wangdicholing Palace (exterior access only) and one or both of the Jambay & Kurjey Lhakhangs. These are the oldest two monasteries in the kingdom and all the former Kings of Bhutan are cremated at Kurjey Lhakhang. Other options include the Tamshing Monastery where about 95 Monks reside – most are under 15 and from poorer families who cannot afford to send their children to state school; the nearby Jakar Dzong or drop in at the Swiss Farm to taste sweet cheese, apple brandy and locally brewed wine and beer.
Alternatively enjoy one of the hikes available in this region; find a nice quiet spot at the lodge to catch up on some reading; or arrange a visit to the adjacent monastery. Just ask your guide.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Bumthang
This morning Drukair will fly you on the final leg of your ‘kora’ back to Paro Valley. The flight is usually mid-morning and you will be in Paro before lunch time.
The Amankora Lodge is located further up the valley and sits at an elevation of 2,250 metres (7,382 feet).
A hidden pine forest trail leads you across a small brook and into a clearing where you will find the wonderful Amankora Paro. This 24-suite lodge and spa offers a range of unique healing and rejuvenating treatments. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity for a visit to the Paro Dzong & the National Museum.
Not far from the lodge is Kyichu Lhakhang, a revered temple with historic & cultural significance. Furthermore it features an orange tree that perpetually bears fruit.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Paro
Start the day with a pilgrimage hike to view one of Bhutan’s most treasured monuments, the Taktsang Monastery. More commonly referred to as the “Tigers Nest “, Taktsang is a most revered place and all Bhutanese Buddhists try to take the pilgrimage to this monastery at least once in their lives. Each step taken on the path counts as merit points for their future.
For those with limited time, or fitness, a 1.5 hour round trip hike to the monastery viewpoint is an excellent compromise and it offers a good cafeteria for lunch or refreshments.
The full 4-5 hour round trip hike into the monastery itself, perched on a cliff face 800 m above the valley floor, is very rewarding. However a good standard of fitness and ability to handle plenty of steep steps is essential. This hike will be one of your trip highlights and is a fitting end to your Bhutan experience. Amankora will pack you a picnic lunch as an option on this hike.
In the afternoon take a visit to the town temple, built in 1525, to view ancient wall paintings. A wander along Paro main street for handicrafts and jewelry is a great way to end your journey. Alternatively simply relax and enjoy your afternoon at the lodge and spa.
Overnight – Amankora Luxury Lodge Paro
Your guide & driver will transfer you to Paro Airport after breakfast. The transfer time is approximately 30 minutes and you are advised to arrive at the airport two hours before your international flight departure.
Tashi Delek! You have completed your rewarding “kora”.
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Schedule of Professional Service Fees
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Planning Fee |
$125 per itinerary. Creating unique travel itineraries is our specialty. For detailed quotations providing tailored recommendations for custom designed tours, a non-refundable planning fee applies. Should you proceed with booking, this fee is credited towards your trip.
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Service Fees |
$40 Domestic/Trans-Tasman airfare per person or as discounted
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$150.00 International airfare per person or as discounted
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$50.00 Domestic/Trans-Tasman business class airfare per person or as discounted
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$200.00 International business class airfare per person or as discounted |
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NIL Domestic/Trans-Tasman package, tour, or cruise per booking
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NIL International package, tour, or cruise per booking |
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$ Other Services dependent on service explained to you |
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$200 to $500 Itinerary planning per booking (credited towards reservation once booked) |
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Deposit & Balance |
For all bookings, the initial deposit is 20% and the balance of payment is due 60 days before departure. If Travel Provider terms and conditions vary, we may request an additional deposit from you, after the initial deposit is paid, plus the balance payment date may also vary. After you have paid your initial deposit, you will have five days cooling off period to accept these Booking & Advisory Terms and Conditions, during which time your deposit is refundable. After 5 days has passed, or you have accepted the Terms and Conditions, the deposit will automatically become non-refundable. Note, some Travel Products must be paid in full at time of booking. Service Fees must also be paid at time of booking and are non-refundable. After you pay the balance of payment this will become fully non-refundable 60 days before travel, or earlier, if specified by the supplier. |
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Amendment Fees |
Changes to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Changes to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellation Fees |
Cancellations to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $75 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellations to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $150 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Credit Card Fees |
Visa - an additional 2.0% applies
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Mastercard - an additional 2.0% applies
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American Express - an additional 2.0% applies
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(All fees exclude GST, where applicable).
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We will also use your personal information to personalise the service we provide you, including your experience on our, and other, websites, and to provide you with information about our, and our partners’, business, products and services. Your personal information may be shared between entities within Darebin Travel and with DeluxeLife Pty Ltd (ACN: 647 484 115), disclosed to suppliers, Providers, our cloud infrastructure, our contractors and to others where authorised or required by law. Some of these entities may be located overseas.
ANNEXURE – TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRAVEL PRODUCTS
These tips set out below are NOT legally binding terms and conditions.
Passports, Visas and Health Requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the required documents, including visas and passports, before travelling to a destination. For more information please log on to www.dfat.gov.au and www.smarttraveller.gov.au. Please check with the respective Embassy or Consulate of each country that you are travelling to, as many destinations require visas for both Australians and non-Australian passport holders. For more information, log on to www.visalink.com.au. You need to ensure that you have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your departure return.
For International travellers booked on flights to the USA, including Hawaii, it is now mandatory, under the Visa Waiver Program to receive an electronic authorisation known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) no less than 72 hours before travel to the USA. This can be obtained from the following website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ .
For international travellers booked on flights to Canada, you either need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. An eTA can be obtained from the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of any health requirements for your travel destinations. Vaccinations are strongly recommended for certain destinations. You need to contact your local doctor who will advise you of these requirements. Please note that vaccinations may be recommended before your travel departure date.
Travel Advice
We recommend that you contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or visit their website at www.dfat.gov.au for general travel advice, as well as specific advice (including safety alert levels) relating to the destination you wish to visit.
Ticketing
For international and domestic departure, e-tickets will be issued upon payment and completion of the booking process. All other travel documentation, such as hotel booking confirmations, will be emailed to the email address you provided as an e-document. Should the Provider issue paper vouchers, these will be posted to the address you provided.
Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance varies from airline to airline and in many cases the airfare you have paid may not include the cost to cover checked baggage. Please check with your Travel Advisor and/or the airline providing your flights for the allowances.
Frequent Flyers & Special Requests
For more information on whether your airfare is eligible for Frequent Flyer rewards, please contact the airline directly. When booking online, please ensure that you have entered your correct number. For bookings made by telephone via our Customer Service Team, please advise of your Frequent Flyer details and these will be added to your reservation. We do not take any responsibility should an airline not register your trip. You should retain copies of your air ticket and boarding pass.
Special requests will be passed on to the Providers but cannot be guaranteed.