Hi eveyone-
My husand and I are interested in a vacation package to go to Bhutan along with India and/or Tibet for approx. 2 weeks. We are in our mid-30s and are looking for a reasonably priced, diverse and reputable tour that will also allow us to have time on our own. We have no idea where to geting- any recommendations? Thanks!!!
I will be in Darjeeling, India from Oct 12 to 15th and then would like to go to the Gangtey Palace Hotel in Paro from the 15th to the 17th. Here are my questions:
1) Is there any way to do this since I don%26#39;t have a visa yet (money is not a problem)?
2) Can the hotel help me get a visa or do I need to go through a tour operator? If a tour operator, can someone please recommend one?
3) What would be the quickest way to get to Paro from Darjeeling and then back to Kolkata for my flight home?
Any help, especially recommendations for tour operators, contacts at the hotel, airlines advice or whoever I would need to contact to make this happen, would be GREATLY appreciated. I have searched this forum and the internet and Bhutan is simply a hard place to figure out how to get in to.
Tour operators are also welcome to respond.
Thanks in advance :-)
As mentioned before, it is easy. You have to use a local touroperator, who will arrange everything for you according to your wishes.
As I%26#39;ve been three times to Bhutan, all with Sonam of Nirvanaexpeditions, I recommend him warmly. Write him a mail with your requests and questions, and he%26#39;ll propose an itinary.Then he%26#39;ll arrange your visa which%26#39;ll wait wherever you%26#39;ll enter Bhutan. As he%26#39;ll do all the work, you only have to tell your wishes, very simple.His address: Sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
Hope you%26#39;ll succeed in seeing a little of Bhutan.
I am planning to go to Buthan with my daughter in April 2009 (Paro - Timphu - Punakha in 8 days). She is very well travelled (Xinjiang, Yunnan, Vietnam,...) and enjoys very much horse/poney riding.
Has anyone be in Buthan with a toddler? Is it possible to organize a 3 to 4 hour ';trek'; around the cities we are planning to visit?
I am still in the process of choosing an operator so if anyone has any suggestion of one which is used to organize trips with young children, please let me know.
Thank you
Hello,
It is wise not to drive too far, as the roads can be long, with slow driving.
In Bhutan there are a lot of walks, short and longer. I%26#39;d advise to walk to the Takin-reserve in Thimphu,also animals and an easy walk.
If you go up to Taktsang monastry, you can choose walking the steep path or taking a pony.
As long as you forgo the for children boring sightseeing, your child should be fine.
As I%26#39;ve been to Bhutan three times with Nirvanaexpeditions, I recommend them warmly. They%26#39;ll adapt your tour to your wishes, and maybe you can try and make some contact with local children. They learn English from small age, and are easy to communicate with.
You can contact for your travel: Sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
Have a wonderful time.
I want to travel light and would prefer to have laundry done for me. Is this commonly available at the hotels?
Leaving in 2 days. Anyone??
We didn%26#39;t give laundry to the hotel, but did some ourselves when staying two nights. I remember that some gave laundry in Bumthang, but it didn%26#39;t dry quick enough. No electric dryers. You can wish for a stove to heat and dry. Only if you go to the luxury hotels, which are not in the regular package, you can expect laundry-service.
Thermal clothing is very light-weight. Take layers, with some fleece, and you%26#39;ll be way under the limit.
Enjoy your stay.
Thank you.
Does anyone know the Pelri Cottages in Paro? What about The Meriphumsum resort in Wangdi? I%26#39;d appreciate some feedback!
An apprehensive traveller
Sorry I stayed in the Olathang hotel in Paro which was ok but had very hard beds (as do all the hotels in Bhutan I think!). I stayed in the Zangthopelri Hotel in Punaka which was nice. I stayed in the Wangdicholing resort hotel in Jakar, Bumthang. It%26#39;s rather dark and gloomy, no tv and a very uncomfortable/basic bathroom. I hope that%26#39;s helpful. My main tip is to take an air mattress with you so you can sleep ok. I wish I had!
Is it true that Bhutan charges a surcharge for visitors? Specifically for non indian residents?
You heard it right. For individual and in a group of two will have to pay the surcharge.
Hello. I was planning a trip to Bhutan and was wondering when to go (I was thinking mid spring) and where in Bhutan.
Thank you!
hey all,
Plan to be in Nepal on august. Is it easy to make last minute travel-ticket-visa arrangements to visit Bhutan while in Kathmandu?
thanx
:)
No! It is very difficult to make last minute ticket-visa arrangements to visit Bhutan. Druk Air is usually booked -- and it will take a good travel agent abut 10-days to obtain the visa. A group can now be two persons but you must travel with a group and a tour guide.
FLI
pls let me know! thx
Dechen Hill Resort in Paro is an excellent place to stay. The staff is excellent. They go out of their way to assist you in any way possible. The food is excellent. Lonely Planet Guide calls Dechen Hill the best Indian Food in all of Bhutan and they are right on the mark. The menu is extensive and the service outstanding. The rooms are comfortable and the views outstanding.
Stayed there 7 weeks and it felt almost like home. Great place to stay.
Dechen Hill Resort is really good one...we do keep our clients there too.
karma.
i will be in india for two week and would like to visit another country.
i will only have one week, is bhutan really expensive and is it great or would you recommend somewhere else.
i am traveling solo
I don%26#39;t know what you think about US$240/day for a solo traveller (all inclusive package), you%26#39;ll have to pay extra for air ticket . Visa is US$20/per person. No matter what, all travellers have to join a local tour to obtain a visa and to enter Bhutan.
Hi Benny
I am planning to visit Bhutan in late Oct. Wonder will you be travelling around that period. yeah, read that min spend per day around US$200 to US$250. Can be expensive for solo traveller like you and me.
Hello,
We are a Group of 3 adults planning to visit Bhutan late Oct (20th onwards) for 7 days. I%26#39;m really concerned about what the weather may be like, since my mother is a chronic asthamatic and if its too cold then she may not be able to visit.
Could anyone advise me on what weather we should expect (Deg C). Also, what would you suggest we do in the 7 days? Are there specific MUST visit places.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Sam
will be trekking a bit, 3 days, up to around 12000....slow ascent...
malaria? do I need Diomox?
how is camping there?
thanks!
Hi,
Take a look at the site: www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm
As far as I know, only in the areas low, next to India malaria exists. In the mountains of Bhutan there is no malaria. As for altitude, if you rise slowly, you can adapt your body, which is much better than taking pills. If you feel bad, go down, don%26#39;t fool your body . Have a wonderful time and trek!
I would like to visit Bhutan in January 2007. I understand that it may not be the best time of year to go, but I am not able to go at any other time. Would it be worth my while to go in January? Or would it be too cold and snowy? I will be in Bangkok at that time and if Bhutan is not a wise destination, I guess I will find somewhere else to go. Any input you may have will be helpful. thanks.
My wife and I are also considering a side trip to Bhuttan from Bangkok, in late January, early February. My research seems to indicate that it should be a good time to visit..... slightly less expensive, cold, but mostly dry weather.... my only concern is travelling from valley to valley thru the mountain passes may be dependent on the weather.
I suspect your best bet is to get advice from one of the many ';tour operators'; in Bhuttan; who seem to be your ticket into this country.
Do you have any good leads on a good tour operator? YANA, has a fairly comprehensive web-site.... and I like that they put in their advertising, that they are in business for more than ';just taking your money';. If you get any good recommendations on who to use or book with, please let me know by posting here.
thanks,
radguy
Hi
I am thinking of going trekking in Bhutan next autumn. What is the best month to travel? I was thinking of October - heading towards Chomolhari.
Thanks
Jhomolhari would be cool and the weather would be fine except little chill on the mountains.
Generally speaking, treks in Bhutan are done best from 2nd week in October till Mid November. To enjoy it better, your trek should end before the last week in November. However there are some treks that is best done from end of october till mid december.
Check this site for some trek and information
www.windhorsetours.com
We are planning a 10-night trip to Bhutan in late October/early November of 2007, and are researching tour options. I have been impressed with material I%26#39;ve seen from the Uma Paro Hotel (part of COMO chain), and wonder if anyone out there has had any direct experience with the hotel, their organized day trips and/or their longer itineraries.
Specifically, this tour would coincide with Bumthang festival in late October. Anyone been there?
I recently returned from a COMO property in the Turks and Caicos, ';Parrot Cay,'; and feel good about how these people handle things.
Hi ExpertTripPlanner,
I%26#39;ve been twice in Bhutan,not in the Uma Paro, but all our hotels were very good, big rooms and equipped bathrooms,I don%26#39;t think one needs more. We were very happy with our guide and tourorganiser, and I%26#39;m sure he can organise anything you%26#39;ll ask, also the Uma Paro (but at extra cost, as it is not in the gouvernment-run plan). Last year we attended the Bumthang festival, I liked it very much, but I must say that others in our group were less enthousiastic. This year we had a performance from a local sing and dance group, which was very well received by our group. I%26#39;d advise you to contact our guide directly and give him all your wishes: sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
Enjoy Bhutan, it is incredible!
There are many Bhutan tour guide services. Can you recommend better ones or those you do not recommend?
Planning a fall 2007 visit.
Griffim
I want to travel to Bhutan with my two kids (18 and 20). Is late May a good time or not?
Also, as I am 58 with bad knees, is the main thing trekking, or are there a multitude of things that people do there.
We are interested in seeing ';real asia'; and getting out of cities.
Any thoughts would be great.
I am planning to visit Bhutan sometimes this year, I read that the biggest tsechu festival is either Paro or Thimphu so would like your suggestion of which one is better? Also, what are the must see places and how long should be ideal for a visit. Thanks in advance
The must see places depend on your interest. There are a lot of fortresses and monastries with rich decorations, the most famous are Punakha and Trongsa. The hike to Taktsang near Paro is on most tourlists, and very special. If you like to do a trek in the rich nature, you can choose from easy 3-day treks to 14 or even more ,
hard ones. About festivals, again it depends on what your interests are. Sometimes the smaller ones are more interesting as you see more local people than tourists, who mostly go to the two you mentioned. Try to read about Bhutan and get the picture, then ask a local touroperator to plan the tour according to your wishes. You can get articles through reviews with weekly updates from Tripadvisor, or look at: www.kingdomofbhutan.com, also at: www.nirvanaexpeditions.com, and www.lonelyplanet.com
The advised time to spend and really see part of the country is between 10 and 14 days, at least. Depending on time of the year you might have to plan and reserve a long time ahead, especially the flights. Enjoy the planning and trip.
I have another interesting site for you:
www.tourism.gov.bt
They give a very broad picture of Bhutan with many details.
Dear Tshering and Bhutantraveller,
Thanks for very useful info, I will spend more time planning and hope to cover all best part of Bhutan on my visit either during Paro or Thimphu Tsechu.
Dear Beaumaam and Bhutantraveller,
My wife and I just returned from a 10 day trip to Bhutan. It was wonderful, and we wished we had had a few more days to spend there.
I would like to thank Bhutantraveller for suggesting Nirvana Expeditions and Sonam on this site in previous postings. We found his service to be prompt, efficient, professional and personable. He helped us plan and implement our wedding there, and the subsequent tour of the country with Dorji, a very knowledgeable guide. He and his staff went way beyond our expectations to make sure that everything was to our satisfaction. We highly recommend his service if you plan to visit this beautiful country.
DW
I would like to visit Bhutan in January 2007. I understand that it may not be the best time of year to go, but I am not able to go at any other time. Would it be worth my while to go in January? Or would it be too cold and snowy? I will be in Bangkok at that time and if Bhutan is not a wise destination, I guess I will find somewhere else to go. Any input you may have will be helpful. thanks.
Could anyone pls let me know the tour operators in Bhutan? I plan to visit there in either Nov or Jan. Any input is appreciated.
As I wrote before in reply to several questions, I%26#39;d like to recommend the touroperator and guide we travelled with twice. His name is Sonam, and he organised for two very different groups a very interesting tour with personal touches.He caught the special wishes of the people and changed plans accordingly. He has a very rich English, puts a lot of extra%26#39;s in the itinary and deals with almost every wish. As the price is gouvernment-fixed and includes the basic travel, hotels and meals, these personal touches make a tour so special. Sonam can also organise treks, and seminars on special topics like traditional medicine, teaching, etc. His address: Sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
Enjoy Bhutan, it is an unforgettable place!
Thank you!
How long normally does Sonam take to reply an email? I haven%26#39;t heard from him.
Usually Sonam replies the same or next day on an e-mail, unless he has to find out places or availability of people, or when he is on a trek. In these cases it can take a few more days, but I got always a reply. If there might be a problem with computers, you can try to send your mail another time. Success!
I still haven%26#39;t heard from him!! :(
I%26#39;m sending it again.
Is there any recommended one other than Sonam?
i am going to bhutan in may for 13 days. i have contacted a few tour operators about a tour of paro, thimphu, and punakha with a 4 day druk path trek included. can anyone give me feedback about my planned itinerary and any good tour operators?
We are inflexible as to dates this year and wondered if visiting Bhutan from june 11 to June 21st means constant rain during the day as we attempt to do some day hikes. We have learned from past trips, rain really does put a damper on the day%26#39;s activities. Should we post pone visiting this country until the dry season? I have looked at the average rainful charts and think we probably ought to postpone!
How about weather in September ?
June is by all means a good season to Hike in Bhutan.
As per last years met records scanty rainfall was registered but in light of the burgeoning situation of global climate change the weather is no longer a certain factor especially in this day %26amp; age of global warming.
Please contact the agency www.bhutanscenictours.com.bt or chodex@druknet.bt for further deliberations on the Hiking programs %26amp; affiliated info.
My husband %26amp; I intend to travel to Bhutan from mumbai. would appreciate if any who has travelled there could let us know places to stay, food, places to see and duration of stay.
Dear Tanul,
You can fly in to Bhutan (Paro) from Kolkota /Delhi - Kolkota is much cheaper. On arrival at Paro airport you can get your stay permit for 7-15 days for Paro %26amp; Thimphu. If you are planning to go for 5-7 days then you must visit Punakha, Wangdi and Gangtey - for which you have to take special permit.
As per places to stay you can go with TAB approved hotels and for Indians local rates would apply so below USD 100.00 hotels are good / clean. As for the eateries there are hardly any choices so better to stick to hotel restaurants. Oh ! Yes there is a swiss bakery
centrally located - thats pretty good.
I had visited Bhutan after almost 7 years last year - pretty dissappointed with the new facelift of Thimphu, lost the old good charm of a ethnic village.
Elisha, New Delhi
Dear Tanul,
You can fly in to Bhutan (Paro) from Kolkota /Delhi - Kolkota is much cheaper. On arrival at Paro airport you can get your stay permit for 7-15 days for Paro %26amp; Thimphu. If you are planning to go for 5-7 days then you must visit Punakha, Wangdi and Gangtey - for which you have to take special permit.
As per places to stay you can go with TAB approved hotels and for Indians local rates would apply so below USD 100.00 hotels are good / clean. As for the eateries there are hardly any choices so better to stick to hotel restaurants. Oh ! Yes there is a swiss bakery
centrally located - thats pretty good.
I had visited Bhutan after almost 7 years last year - pretty dissappointed with the new facelift of Thimphu, lost the old good charm of a ethnic village.
Elisha, New Delhi
We love to travel, we have an 18 months baby, and we are considering the 10 days Aman experience in Bhutan. Our baby is very well behaved, and loves to see and experience different thinks, he has been traveling since his 3 months and been in Europe,
Asia, Canada, Mexico ect
I think that if we stay at Aman the baby will have most of the things to be comfortable, do you think is a good idea?
Thank you very much for any suggestions or recommendations.
Amankora Resorts in Bhutan is the Epitome of Luxury Travel in Bhutan . It has played host to Celebrities,Vips as well as ordinary travellers in quest of extraordinary luxury.
Considering you are travelling with an 18 month old baby who is travel experienced, there should be no impediment to your travel in Bhutan.
Have a great trip %26amp; moreso your stay in Bhutan
Bhutan Scenic Tours - Paro
www.bhutanscenictours.com.bt
E-mail : chodex@druknet.bt
HELP we are visting both Bhutan and Sunderbans in october but we are short on time., is 3 days in Bhutan enough and what are the must see highlights ? Is 1 day in the sunderbans enough to get a feel of the place and can anyone recommend a decent hotel in Bakkhali? thanks
Wow, 3 days is a very short time to see Bhutan. I suggest that you stay in Paro,your plane%26#39;ll arrive there, get a feel of the place, hike to Taktsang-monastry and drive to the end of the valley, to Drugyel Dzong. Then you can drive to the capital, one and a half hour away, Thimphu, and do some sightseeing. Get a feel, and plan to be back for at least another 10 days. By the way, you have to plan and prepay everything with a local agent, who can add his additions.
Bhutan is a very quiet and beautiful country, and I advise to take it in slowly, not in a hurry just to %26#39;do%26#39; the place.
You have too little time in Bhutan and Sunderbans.
In 3 days - u can perhaps do only Paro - and a day trip to Thimpu. But you will miss Punakha and Bumthang.
You cant do Sunderban in 1 day - Given your time constraint - you can go for the 2 Night 3 day cruise - recently Vivada has launched a new cruise - its expensive - but worth it. You can get the details from www.sunderbancruises.com/itinerary.html.
Check out my post on Bakkhali - type a search by Bakkhali and you will get the review. The hotel I stayed was horrible. Its run by Benfish ( owned by state govt). Dont stay there.
I am curious to know why you chose Bakkhali - few people from outside west bengal know about that place.
Has anyone ever used Greaves Travel (from India) for their travel in Bhutan? Greaves is very reputable in India but they seem a bit inexperienced with Bhutan.
I would strongly receommend using a local Bhutanese company. In fact, I would hazard a bet that Greaves probably farms out with a Bhutanese company as a subcontractor anyway. Why not disintermediate?
My husband and I have just returned from a 2 week holiday in Bhutan. The last 3 nights were spent at Gangtey Palace in Paro. It is absolutly gorgious and make sure you ask for room 301, which is the master bedroom used by many dignatories from the past (including royalty)and has the best view. The owners are extremely well connected to the royal family but you couldn%26#39;t meet a more down to earth couple, who are warm and very friendly. The palace just rounded off this remarkable holiday brilliantly and we can%26#39;t wait to return.
Anybody have an alternative view?
Stayed at the Gangtey Palace twice on our trip to Bhutan in March. I found the hotel, grounds, and room(s) fantastic. You can read my trip report/review and see photos elsewhere on these site. Absolutely loved the ';bar'; area with the panoramic views over Paro valley.
My only complaint? The food. Bland, boring, and of relatively poor quality. Can%26#39;t have everything I guess, but it seems like it would be so easy for them to pick up their game on the food. Who knows, maybe we just picked a bad week, but two separate stays had us fleeing for the restaurants in town rather than eating there..
Yesterday, I read somewhere in YouTube (and cannot find it any longer) that old men in Bhutan, who have to urinate 3 times per night and more, take some kind of natural medicine (a root only growing in these heights, I think) and are really helped by it. This root is also supposed to be good for other ailments.
Does anyone happen to know the name of this ????
I leave for Bhutan on Oct. 4th and really would LOVE to buy and try that. Thanks! Wolf/Kyoto/Japan
If I remember well it is Cordyceps, but ask your guide to go to the Insitute of Traditional Medicine in Thimphu, they can advise you and also sell,both medicines and medicial teas. It is also interesting to visit the Institute and look at the little museum of medicines made of plants.Have a wonderful time in Bhutan.
I%26#39;m planning a trip to Uma Paro in mid september and i am just now finalizing everything. I was wondering which category room to book.
i%26#39;m trying to decide between a Deluxe category room and a Suite category.
I will be travelling alone so I dont need the extra space a Suite provides, but officially, Deluxe rooms have better views than Superior rooms..
i%26#39;m wondering if the same is true for Suites.
Como has given me a very competative room rate for a 5 night tour in the suite -- less than $100/night difference between the price of a Delux room and a Suite.
then again, I could think of at least 50 different things to do with the nearly $500 I would save by staying in a delux room.
Has anyone who has stayed on the property, or seen the diffrent rooms, provide any feedback to help me with the decision.
at this point, i think i am just going to splurge but I was wondering what you guys thought about the matter.
thanks in advance for taking the time to reply.
CMM.
since you are visiting Bhutan. why dont you save the money as you have mentioned you are getting discount of US$ 500. so book your trip with local tour operator and stay in one of the best and luxury hotel with the same service as como. Uma Paro.
to get to know more contact local operator. find out on GOOGLE.COM by typing bhutan tour, trekking bhutan, etc
Hi CMM,
I%26#39;m looking forward to my turn at uma paro in december. So, which room category did you choose? If the deluxe, was the view good enough?
Regards,
Mark
I want to travel light and would prefer to have laundry done for me. Is this commonly available at the hotels?
Leaving in 2 days. Anyone??
We didn%26#39;t give laundry to the hotel, but did some ourselves when staying two nights. I remember that some gave laundry in Bumthang, but it didn%26#39;t dry quick enough. No electric dryers. You can wish for a stove to heat and dry. Only if you go to the luxury hotels, which are not in the regular package, you can expect laundry-service.
Thermal clothing is very light-weight. Take layers, with some fleece, and you%26#39;ll be way under the limit.
Enjoy your stay.
Thank you.
We are going to Bhutan in September.
Does anyone know if the beginning or the end of the month is better, and are monsoons a problem?
Are there any festivals in the month of September?
Many thanks for any help!
Muga
Hi Muga,
In the end of September the rain will be less of a problem, as it is the end of the monsoon. October is even better. But you have to take into account that it can rain in Bhutan during most seasons, but intermittently, and not disturbing. Take an umbrella and some rainwear and you should be fine.
In september usually the festival in Paro is held. Have a look at the official site:www.tourism.gov.bt
By the way, as you%26#39;ll have to make all your arrangements with a local agent, he can inform you as well about the weather and festivals.
Enjoy Bhutan, it is a very special place!
I have been corresponding with Raventours about a trip in fall of 2007. Anyone have experience with them? Any recommended guide services for cultural/nature tours? Thanks.
Hi Griffim,
As I wrote already as a reply to several posts, I warmly recommend Nirvanaexpeditions. I even got a nice %26#39;thank you%26#39; from one of the people who actually traveled with them after seeing my comments.
I traveled twice with them and plan to do a third stay. Sonam is a very nice person, knows a lot, also things and persons which and who would not be on a %26#39;normal%26#39; program. He can plan your tour according to your special wishes and of course give you the regular sights as well. Try to write your request to:Sonam.Dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
You can also look at their site: www.nirvanaexpeditions.com
Enjoy your trip to Bhutan, it is the most incredible place I ever visited.
griffim,
i just returned from bhutan 2 weeks ago. and one i know for sure is that there are MANY tour operators. most are fair to good - because bhutanese are warm and kind people. they genuinely care about being hospitable as a part of their nature. i will not recommend any one company but i would caution you about taking recommendations from anyone without their making a full disclosure of their commercial interests and personal links to the company they are recommending.
at a least, you should request that raventours provide you with references of people of previous clients who engaged in the same activities as what you are interested in. if you are interested in trekking, try contacting the sierra club for a recommendation. the person they use happens to be a personal friend of mine, but you should get their impression of his service, not mine.
good luck and i%26#39;m sure that whomever you choose, you%26#39;ll have an amazing experience.
jhshin
I would also like to recommend Nirvana expeditions - is that ok to recommend something on this site? I%26#39;ve been with them twice and they%26#39;re great - ask for Sonam
I just had a fabulous trip to Bhutan with my 26 year old son. My second time, his first with Nirvana expeditions. Our guide, Sonam, did his undergraduate degree in Boston so was totally fun to talk to and a wealth of information. My son played snooker in the evenings with our driver, Namgay, another lovely fellow. The 10 day tour was smooth as silk, lots of fun, never got boring. What a fabulous place and our guide and driver were wonderful. We highly recommend doing it the way we did.
By the way, remember that the going rate is a great deal when you realize it includes your hotel. all your meals, a guide, driver and all the tea you can drink!
Shemom:
Thanks for the report. My wife and I are looking into going next fall and Nirvana was the one that we were looking at and your comments are very helpful. Was it just the two of you on the tour? Did they make the arrangements for the Druk air flight? Did you go via Bangkok?
Hi BluePhantom,
I also have been twice with Sonam in Bhutan. He took care of our flights from Delhi after the visa-clearance. The tickets were waiting at the Drukair-counter in Delhi. Everything was perfectly organised, and both groups, the first one we were 5, the second 6, were very happy with all the experience. I agree with Shemom that the price is reasonable for all it includes. We spent per person not more than 100 Usd, extra,for drinks, and some souvenirs.
As Sonam can make you a very personal itinary, I%26#39;d advise you to write him your wishes. If you%26#39;re travelling with 3 persons or less , ther is a small surcharge per day.
Enjoy Bhutan, the world will look different after your visit.
We are thinkning of going to Bhutan in the 1st week of November. Any idea what the weather then will be like ? Will it be wet/humid or cool and dry ?
Thanks
We were in Bhutan last year around that time. It was mostly nice in daytime, and cooler at night. On our trek in the Bumthang-region, it was close to freezing at night, but in hotels they have a heater. Although the monsoon is finished by then, there is some rain, but not the whole day, and without wind, so you can use an umbrella. Maybe only in the lower parts there is humidity, but in the area of Paru, Thimphu, Punakha and Bumthang the air is nice and relatively dry.
You can get more information on the official site:
www.tourism.gov.bt
If you have more questions, I%26#39;d be happy to answer them.
Bhutantraveller,
Thanks very much. If the trip does materialise, then I am sure I will have many more questions.
Thanks.
I understand that the journey time from Phuntsholing to Thimpu is around 6hrs, if travelling by Bus/Shared Taxi do they provide some halts for Snacks/Lunch somewhere in between at the Hotel during the Journey.
What would be the last Bus time starting from Phuntsholing to Thimpu around 3-4 pm ?
There are Delux Coaster Buses (mini buses) and taxis plying from Phuntsholing to Thimphu. I was told the last one leaves from P/ling at around 01:00PM. If the departure time is important to you, you may like to confirm it with the Department of Tourism:
Tel: (975) 2-323251, 2-323252
Fax: (975) 2-323695.
Email: dot@tourism.gov.bt
My experience is that the Bhutanese authorities do respond to enquiries.
The Bus stops at one point where passengers can have lunch and the restaurant serves different dishes.
Thanks for the reply, have sent a email to Bhutan Tourism hopefully they reply.
Where is really wonderful to go trekking in November? We would prefer not too much altitude change, or too much climbing. We can go anywhere. Where would you go? Thanks.
November in Bhutan is the start of the winterseason, so high places might be cold.You can get a detailed description of the available treks on the site;www.tourism.gov.bt, and see what is most like you wish. Last year we did the Bumthang-trek, and at night it was close to freezing. At daytime with the sun, warm. This trek is easy, 3 days. In Bhutan, every place is beautiful.
Just take into account, that in Bhutan you can only trek and travel with a pre-arranged and organised tour, which can be for one person as well. If you need more information, feel free to contact me.
My friends and I did Druk Path trek in mid November. It started from the National Museum in Paro and ended in Thimphu and lasted for 4 days. The trek was easy with highest altitude up to 4200 M. The route was very scenic, and the views of the Himalayas are breathtaking.
The weather was very nice in the day time with clear skies and we could walk in short-sleeves. However, it was freezing in night time and so you should carry a good sleeping bag.
Hi,
If you don%26#39;t prefer to have much altutude change and too much climbing then, ';Druk Path'; is good trek as suggested.
However, Trek to Punakha from Dechencholing, Thimphu will also be a ideal one esp in start of winter. Its a pleasent, not too taxing and low altitude trek.
Have great time Trekking.
Hello All,
My wife and I are planning a trip to Bhutan in 2008. We had considered Tibet and Nepal but with all the political and social issues we have turned to Bhutan. Is the expense of travelling to Bhutan worth it?
Absolutely worth it.
My wife and I just returned from Bhutan in late May from a 2 week cultural and trekking tour. Between my wife and I we have visited almost 50 countries. Bhutan was easily one of the most enjoyable trips. When you consider what you get for that expense, it is not an expensive trip. Almost all of your costs are included.
The only things that I would caution you about is that we heard there are discussions of increasing the minimum touring fees to visit Bhutan, and the increase may be significant. Also, check with numerous tour operators before settling with any one. Most are good to very good, but I think there are a few that just offer boilerplate itineraries.
Wander:
My wife and I are also exploring the possibility of a visit to Bhutan in the fall 2008. We spent 10 days in Nepal and Tibet in late October last year. We flew from Kathmandu to Lhasa and worked our way back to Kathmandu overland with a guide and driver. We encountered no problems whatsoever and had a great time. The scenery, monestaries and people were out of this world. So put it on your list.
Regarding Bhutan, I have spent time monitoring this forum for thoughts and ideas. I have found it quite useful. I think Jhshin has the right idea about making your own flight arrangements to Bhutan, and then working with a local agency. I will probably make direct contact with him and a couple of other posters to get some idea of their experience with the local agencies.
On our Tibet trip, we flew via Bangkok utilizing the Thai Airways JFK - BKG non stop. We%26#39;ll probably repeat that for our Bhutan unless we decide to visit friends in Delhi. Those appear to be the take off points for Druk Air flights.
Good luck with your plans.
Hello to all,
Just a remark concerning the flights. Your local agent will reserve your flight into Bhutan from either Bangkok or Delhi, so you have to take care only of the other flights. You can border the plane to Bhutan only after visa-clearance, which is arranged by your agent. Just have a good look at the timetables, as not every day there are flights. www.drukair.com.bt
The flight from Delhi is great, along the Himalayas and a spectacular landing which drops you right into another world.
Bhutantraveler:
Many thanks for the tips on booking the air travel. One less thing to deal with!
visiting Bhutan in Oct do we need proper walking shoes or boots or sandals,also does it get cold in the evening?
Depending on your plans, if you;re going on a trek, then you%26#39;ll need good walking boots,shorter walks can be done with whatever if convenient for you.
In the evenings, and sometimes during the day, it gets cold, the higher you are, t he cooler it gets.
In Paro and Thimphu, a simlpe jacket will do, in Wangdi it is usual warmer, also in Punakha, bu t Bumthang is much cooler, with heating in the rooms.
During our t rek last October in the Bumthang region, it was near freezing at night, with a lovely white frost in the early morning.
For more specific questions, feel free to contact me. M.
thanks for answering my questions, may have a few more nearer the time, we go on Oct11th our first vist not sure what to expect.!
I guess you%26#39;ve made arrangements with a local tour operator. If you have your itinary, you can check treks and interesting places on his site, and also at: www.tourism.gov.bt, and: www.kingdomofbhutan.com
Enjoy planning and reading before the trip. You can sign up for updates on Bhutan on Tripadvisor, as well.
Bhutan is a very special place, I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll agree after your visit.
I am planning to visit the city of Phuntsholing in August. I hear it is a visa free area as an American. I want to avoid the excessive fees for visiting this country. Will this visit be worthwhile to get a feel for the country? I plan to fly from Delhi to Baghdogra. Is Phuntsholing easy to get to from this city in India? Thanks for any advice. Tim E.
Mailhandler54
If you plan to see Bhutan - then just a trip to Phuntsholing wont do. Let me explain - if you are travelling from India by Road - Phuntsholing is a gateway to Bhutan. People use this as a stop over point to reach Paro, Thimpu, Punakha and other places.
If I may suggest - you fly from Delhi or Calcutta (Kolkata) or Bangkok straight to Paro - and spend more time in places like Paro/ Thimpu/ Punakha etc. You can skip Phuntsholing.
Samik
I am planning for a short trip for 5 or 6 days during september end to Bhutan. After visiting Darjeeling, planning to get to bhutan by road and then go to Thimpu. How long will it take to reach Thimpu by road from Darjeeling. Which are the places must see in Bhutan.
Thanks
Shankar
I don%26#39; t think it is Visa free for American. Of course, it is for Indians.
Hi,
Nice to know that you are interested to visit Bhutan. But no place is visa free. Visa clearance in advance is required to enter Bhutan. The travel agencies in Bhutan will help you in obtaining the clearances.
Phuentsholing is a border town of Bhutan. Its is accessible by road from Bagdora.
However, places like Thimphu and Paro are worth visiting if you want to have a feel for the country.
Have a nice trip.
Access Bhutan Tours and Treks
accessbhutan@gmail.com
Hi,
Nice to know that you are interested to visit Bhutan. But no place is visa free. Visa clearance in advance is required to enter Bhutan. The travel agencies in Bhutan will help you in obtaining the clearances.
Phuentsholing is a border town of Bhutan. Its is accessible by road from Bagdora.
However, places like Thimphu and Paro are worth visiting if you want to have a feel for the country.
Have a nice trip.
Access Bhutan Tours and Treks
accessbhutan@gmail.com
I have some old but useful hiking boots. Somewhere I read that the Bhutanes are in need of such. What do folks think of my taking them when I go there next week and give them away? Any suggestions about to whom to give them?
Bob
Hi Bob,
As you%26#39;ll probably have a guide and driver, you can ask them if they need boots or know someone who needs. This we did also in Africa, and it worked out well.
Enjoy your trip to Bhutan, M.
I am considering a trip in October with Amankora, but I am concerned about the number of days/nights in each city. I have 8 night as go as follows:
Paro - 3 nights
Punahka - 1 night
Thimphu - 2 nights
Gantey - 2 nights
Normally, the trip would be 2-nights in Paro and 2-nights in Punakha, but due to occupancy, I can only get the above nights. Any problems with the above nights?
you have to keep in mind the amount of time it takes to travel between towns. for instance, paro to thimpu is only 50km, or so. but it can take over 2 hours because the road is being repaved. elsewhere, the roads are extremely winding.
i think you can see most of paro in 2 days. we found punahka in one day to be sufficient.
i%26#39;m very familiar with aman resorts all over the world and visited a couple of their locations in bhutan. i am generally not a fan of it for bhutan. i don%26#39;t think bhutan is a country you want to see from the luxury of an anesthetized, western boutique resort. granted that many of the other lodging choices in the country are quite rustic by western standards, i was very glad that i stayed in mostly local hotels and lodges rather than the amans.
in 2006 November we stayed 2 nights in each of Paro Thimpu Phunaka and Gangte at aman resorts which were wonderful with great food for this part of the world. I would have prefered 3 nights each. There is so much to do in each area, with hiking, sights, car and driver and guide and just getting used to the altitude (no great problem for any of gthe 6 of us) and getting oriented, I%26#39;d stay 3 nights next time in each resort.
Hello,
I will be doing a tour of Bhutan the first week of December. Since a lot of things are covered in the $200 per day fee, how much did you tip people at your hotels, restaurants, your guide? Are there any gifts that they might enjoy from the US?
Also, if you bought souveniers, what kind of prices did you pay in general? Is there anything you wish you had brought with you?
Hi,
The people in hotels and restaurants do not expect a tip from you, it is couvered in your price. It is nice to give a tip to your driver and guide who%26#39;ll be with you for the whole trip, and also if you do trekking, to give the cook and horsemen something. How much, well that is a big question. Usually between 3$ (driver) and 5$ (guide)per person per day is mentioned.
You can ask before if they%26#39;d appreciate anything from the US, as this is very personal.
We hardly bought any souvenirs, mostly books, which are very cheap, and some music on casette, also cheap and a nice souvenir. You spend only on drinks during meals, so change 100$ at the airport, and that may last your whole week.
Enjoy Bhutan, it will be a very special experience!.M.
If you know the Bhutan Eco-Expedition, please give me your comments on this company organizing tours in Bhutan.
We are looking for a 3-4 day trek in September 2008. Strenuous okay. Want great views. Anyone suggest a ';high end'; trekking firm and a trek route? Thanks
I read somewhere that Indians do not have to pay the surcharge - which for my planned trip would run me $2800 dollars. I am an American citizen (born in America) of Indian origin. Can I get some sort of dual citizenship that would allow me to avoid the surcharge?
thanks!
India does not allow dual citizenship, unfortunately (except, I believe, where a minor acquired it involuntarily but is now re-patriating).
So.. I think you%26#39;re stuck.
Hello from Edinburgh :)
I see that you are the %26#39;expert%26#39; for Bhutan and was wondering if you could help me get a route out of Eastern Bhutan. I am using Blue Poppy Tours and they have organised a couple of itineraries for me, both of which look very enticing.
I will be travelling October 2008 and there is a West to East 16 day tour and a loop in and out of Paro, both including festivals.
On the 16 day tour, they escort me to Guwahati in which I can get a flight out of there and to Bangkok for a reasonable price (and home ward to Scotland)
I would just value your opinion on whether to see Eastern Bhutan and have the slightly more difficult route home and the price of Indian visa / travelling there on my own etc or if you can get a %26#39;true%26#39; taste of Bhutan starting in and out of Paro and doing a 14 day loop
I have already travelled through India so do not need to return to Delhi etc in this trip and will be flying into Paro from Nepal and was happy to return there afterwards.
Any information or personal opinions would be appreciated, thank you in advance
Yes, thank you very much :)
I will be traveling to Bhutan in the Fall of 08. Many of the guide books suggest women wear long pants or long skirts out of courtesy to people of Bhutan. I was also told that for Thailand. When I got to Thailand all female travelers were wearing shorts. So, while trekking and river rafting in Bhutan is it necessary for women to wear long pants/skirts?
Hello Lep,
This is nice to know that you are heading to Bhutan on fall 2008.Well, yeah I am agree on you that when you got the informations about thailand at guide book, it said there are necessary to wear long Skirt but you didn%26#39;t find when you travelled there right? But Bhutan is totally different country compare Thailand and other asian Countries because this country been rulling by the Bhutan%26#39;s King and they don%26#39;t allow any civil as well as tourist to wear such a short Skirts because it can be against their rules and systems. So, if you need any further informations about bhutan please feel easy to write here or send me the pm or contact at nakulnp@gmaildotcom.Thank you and regards
Hello Lep,
Wishing you a very Happy Merry Christmas. Well, it is not that necessary to wear long pants and skirts everytime while in Bhutan.
But it is necessary while visiting the important places like fortress, monastries and temples.
If you have more inquires please let me help you.
Hi,
We are planning a trip to Bhutan. Has anyone booked their Bhutan tour thru ';A World Away Travels'; that is in Colorado.
Thanks
Deb
Hi,
I%26#39;d advise you to organise and book with a local agent, as you%26#39;ll pay less this way. You can discuss your trip exactly as you want, and can pay by bank, less the commission for the foreign agent. Have a look at the different sites, like : www.kingdomofbhutan.com
for more information.
If you have specific questions, feel free to ask.M.
Hello,
It would be wise if you book your trip through a local travel agents since you would be paying much less.
You would also find the list of tour operators from ABTO official website i.e. www.abto.org.bt as the Department of Tourism official website is facing some technical problem this days.
Wishing you a very happy New Year 2008 and stay in Bhutan.
Just returned from a lovely 2 week trip to Bhutan when any tentative thoughts beforehand soon disappeared through the kindness, and good planning of our agent Lhomen Tours. We (2 60+ ladies) had had lots of email contact beforehand and planned exactly what we wanted to do - some cultural and some trekking and seeing the more remote areas, seeing how everyone lives in this beautiful country. We did exactly that. Our guide and driver were excellent; we were extremely well looked after, travelled miles, saw lots of monasteries, temples, art school, weaving centres, festival, and fantastic scenery. We stayed in good tourist hotels (not luxurious but comfortable and homely and food everywhere was very good - particularly if you like vegetarian.and particularly on the trek when the second cook walked with us to give us a hot lunch!. For the 3 day trek we had 2 horsemen, 4 pack horses, 2 cooks and our guide just for the 2 of us so it was very comfortable. The grading of walks we felt was different to Europe as all the country is so high and there are no flat or straight spots either on tracks or roads ehem.... many many bends.... but driving is slow and courteous and avoids the many many animals and people on the roads.... This must be one of the truly unspoilt, peaceful, interesting and beautiful places left in the world
Hi: Impressed by your post. Sounded lovely. I%26#39;m about to organize a trip to Bhutan, possibly March/April 2008 (when best?) for my husband and i, along with my mother and father who aren%26#39;t able to walk much (75 and 84 yrs) but are very keen, young at heart explorers...Are people able to ride the horses, instead of trek....Or can you see much without trekking at all? Do you have a contact for the agent you reccommended? Thanks so much. Diana (currently living in India)
To diane in Delhi. Not absolutely sure about March?April for which is best. The Rhododendrons should be out I believe in spring. We chose Oct. to try to get clear weather - however, as the climate is, nothing is guaranteed and we had mixed weather anyway. The agent%26#39;s details are Karchung Wangchuk is the boss at lhomen@druknet.bt for email and is the contact. He is most helpful and would advise you on all your queries. I am sure you could organise to ride horses in some parts. I know people ride up to the Taktshang Monastery near Paro which most people try to visit altho it is 1500 ft. steepish climb if you walk. I am sure there is riding elsewhere too. Of course you can see the scenery and visit lots of monasteries/dzongs without trekking - that is the main culture in Bhutan. The main road across the country is single lane and very windy and taked you over various high passes, but the driver was excellent - they all drive very slowly to avoid other drivers, animals and people who all use the roads. The lonely plantet guide is quite useful if choosing itineries etc. I would just mention that there is usually steps or footpaths to climb up to some of the monasteries but not usually very far and steps inside to see temples etc. on a different level to entrance. All very worthwhile - some spectacular. The Cheli La Pass (on the way to the Haa valley (a side trip) was particularly great with views towards the west and north border himilayas if clear. Preferred Paro to Thimpu. Art school in Thimpu v. good. went as far as Bumthang in the east central part any further information you need let me know.
Hello,
I%26#39;d like to add that Bhutan is 2200 meters above sealevel, and you get higher even when just driving, so ask you parent%26#39;s doctor if they are allowed to go. Ponies on treks can usually be arranged. Enjoy your trip.
hello all,
2 couples are looking at an REI tour to bhutan. anyone have any experience going on an REI tour?
thanks, amy
Amy, did you ever go to Bhutan with REI?
Does anyone know if it is possible to make arrangements and get visas for Bhutan while in Thailand? I will be traveling with an Ecuadorian citizen. Needless to say, there is no embassy for Bhutan in Ecuador.
To travel to Bhutan you will have to get the visa from Bhutan only. And that will be possible only if you contact the local tour operators in Bhutan.
Get in touch with the agent in Bangkok and they would be able to help you out. I know a couple of really good ones if you need, contact me back
Mrs. Sally Flowers
mrsflowers@mrsflowers.com
Does travel agent in BKK arrange a local guide in Bhutan as well? so we need not to contact him beforehands
thank you!
You have to contact with travel agent.
After you get visa you can getting to Bhutan by
Druk air .
They fly Bangkok to Paro everyday.
My husband and I used the Bhutanese travel agency Bhutan Travellers (owner is Karma Tashi) for our 2-week trip to Bhutan in October-November 2007. We do NOT recommend using this agency. We had a small car (Toyota Corolla) while all the other tourists we saw were in 4-wheel drive SUVs or vans. My husband could not sit up straight in the car and our luggage (together with the guide%26#39;s and driver%26#39;s bags) barely fit. When we asked for a bigger vehicle with 4-wheel drive (which was needed for some of the roads we drove on), Karma Tashi of Bhutan Travellers said he wouldn%26#39;t be able to provide one for another week - IF he could provide one at all - and we would have to pay an additional $40/day. We spoke with other tourists who told us they did not pay extra for a 4-wheel drive car. In addition, we were booked in lower-quality hotels and the worst rooms in these hotels. It seemed to us that Karma Tashi / Bhutan Travellers was trying to maximize profit sand was not concerned with the service provided to clients. Since all tourists pay the same amount of money per day (determined by the government of Bhutan), we definitely got a lot less for our money.
JustineSanFransisco
Thank you for taking the time to post this report, whilst this is the first time in this forum(just starting to think about the next trip) this great website is just the best for travellers
With all the downside aside did you have a great time
ausnomad
I think you should also report this matter to the Tourism Department considering everyone pays the same price and you get low facility is not acceptable. Try checking the Bhutan Tourism website for a email or contact us link and report to them.
We travelled with Nirvana and the care and service were excellent. Do bear in mind that the base cost is what it is-base cost. We paid extra for better hotels - known as %26#39;resort hotels%26#39; and they were excellent. We even stayed at the Aman Hotels in Paro and Bhumthang although everyone felt that it was not good value for money. They are fine for a couple as you have your own 4wd , guide and driver but for 16 people with our own coach,there was no concession on price. At Aman $1300 per night naturally allowes you to have an SUV and not a Toyota Corolla!
I am sorry your trip was ruined as I know everyone who goes to Bhutan comes back satisfied. Bhutan is no doubt a very scenic place and the beauty of the place itself captures your holiday mind. However, do travel with a reputed or at least a known company that existed for a while.
We visited Bhutan for the third time now with a company named Yangphel and they are by far the best in the country and are also very reliable. We recommend them.
I am sorry your trip was ruined as I know everyone who goes to Bhutan comes back satisfied. Bhutan is no doubt a very scenic place and the beauty of the place itself captures your holiday mind. However, do travel with a reputed or at least a known company that existed for a while.
We visited Bhutan for the third time now with a company named Yangphel (www.yangphel.com) and they are by far the best in the country and are also very reliable. We recommend them.
Wow, so very sorry to hear about your trip.
We traveled with Bhutan Travel Bureau http://www.btb.com.bt/ and had a private guide, a driver with a new Toyota SUV, stayed in satisfactory hotels with meals included, and were able to customize our trip for just over $200 p/p p/day. We were not happy with one hotel and without hesitation they moved us to a better one. They no longer use the hotel we were unhappy with.
I would definitely do as another poster suggested and contact the govt agency at this address:
The Director, Department of Tourism , Ministry of Trade and Industry, Government of Bhutan, Thimphu, Bhutan. Tel: +975-2-323251 or 2-323252.
When we first researched our trip we found a lot of posts but very little info on tour operators. While we were there we found that of the over 200 operators registered, probably even more now, that very few of them are more than a one-man/two-man operation based from a home computer and many no longer exist.
We looked for some familiar brand ID%26#39;s like American Express and National Geo on tour websites.
Sorry for what happened.
We have been with Bhutan Footprints Travel (www.tourbhutantravel.com) and everything was perfect. Do not hesitate to contact their general manager mr Daza. It is a middle size agency taking care of their clients. I would definitely go back with them.
Philippe from Barcelona
I would like to make the SnowMan trek in Bhutan during Oct 2008.
Could someone able to recommend on a good reliable agency for this trek??
Please notify me at: meirhn@gmail.com
Also sent you and email.
We spent 8 days with Thinley of Bhutan travel Bureau.
http://www.btb.com.bt/
He freelanced as a snow trek guide for years before joining BTB and was one of the few guides sponsored by the govt to survey the Himalaya trek routes.
We did a cultural tour with Thinley as our guide and we can%26#39;t say enough good things about him and BTB. They strive to meet even the smallest request. For just a little over $200 p/day we had our own guide and driver in a new Toyota. We were already on the balcony of our room having tea by the time the buses rolled in with the larger groups.
I did a lot of net research, several phone calls to tour operators and BTB was the most accommodating. Thinley took us to several places in addition to our itinerary, was extremely knowledgeable regarding Bhutan%26#39;s history, and upon discovering we were Buddhist he even arranged an unexpected private audience with Thimphu%26#39;s top Llama.
After a couple days in Thimphu where most of the tour companies were located we learned that many of them are one-man shows who subcontract guides through other companies. This can result in problems with accommodations that can be a real hassle. The hotels recognize the major tour operators first. Also, BTB is American Express approved and, at the time of our trip in Oct/08, was the only tour company working with the govt to arrange direct payment via credit card.
Hope this helps.
We used the travel agency Dragon Quest which does trekking trips and other trips.
We did a 4 day trekking I talk about in my posting ';trekking in Bhutan'; on my blog http://myadventureinchina.blogspot.com
Our guide was truly wonderful. October is the right time to do this trip!
You can contact Yeshey Dorji at:
proteustours@druknet.bt
(he has also a website http://www.bhutanbirdquest.com)
You could tell him that Christine and Ed gave you his name.
Hi I am wanting to travel to an area of Bhutan near Merak Sakten, located in the two eastern most geogs in Trashigang dzongkhag and wedged between the glacial valleys of Greater Himalayas, and bordering the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh in the North and North East lies Merak and Sakteng.
Any inforemation on getting to this location would be most appreciated.
regards,
Donna.
Hello,
Please contact and book your trip through the local travel agent in Bhutan. They will arrange everything for your travel.
Donna,
Sakteng and Merak remain closed to trekkers, probably until after 2008 elections.
I have tried -hard- to get permission but failed so far for a private party this May
We will be doing trek 23,Bumdeling,from Cicerone guide.
If you want to know more email jdrl@btinternetcom
David
Anyone know when Druk is going to announce their Spring flight schedule? We%26#39;ve got our flight reserved into the country, but still no confirmation for the return..
Fyi - in case anyone cares, Druk has finally released their spring schedule.. So now we can book our flight OUT of the country. (Was getting worried there for a while).
Hi there Ozcanuck,
wondering if you could tell me where you found the flight schedule and if you could email me a copy.
Kind regards,
Donna.
jachungtravel.com/drukairschedule2008.html
I am planning to go to Bhutan from 6 - 16 of April this year. Would like to do mostly a cultural tour but also maybe a two to three days trekking tour. I heard that April is ideal to see the rhododendron in bloom 鈥?is there any special area where there are or will they just bloom all over the country? Grateful for any tips and MUST SEEs, given the shortage of time (10 days).
Also, does anyone know of a really good guide, I mean someone who has got a good understanding about history and culture of his country in addition to a pleasant personality? I reckon that鈥檚 an important factor given that I will spend 10 entire days with him鈥?/p>
Thanks enormously for any useful tips!
I just came back from Bhutan. If you are finding more information, Maybe you should contact my guide, his name is Nidup. Sent your email to: nidup_sha@yahoo.com.
Hope you enjoy and happy with your trip.
I will be in Bhutan in April for 10 days, touring with Mountain Sobek (a US travel company)and I will have my guitar plus 10 friends who are excellent singers and musicians. I understand that the Bhutanese people are taught english - can anyone recommend some songs that we could sing that the locals might know or have heard? We sing and play most everything, from Beatles to John Denver to Burl Ives and beyond.
Hi Jackson,
Some locals have their own MP3 and they share the India music with me while I share mine with them.
Actually, in Paro or Thimphu, you%26#39;ll see people carrying laptops, talking on mobile phones, listening to MP3 but dress in their tradition wear. By night fall, people will walk around in T-shirt, jeans or leather jackets.
If you go out out of Paro or Thimphu, places are more remote, there is even no electricity supply during my stay in a village call Shingkra, but I can check e-mail in Bumthang.
I believe most Bhutanese love foreign music, cos most of the tv channels they have are Indian ones while the local channels are kind of news oriented. So, I believe if they like the rhythm, it%26#39;s ok.
There is a cool karaoke bar in Paro - can%26#39;t remember the name, but you%26#39;ll be able to find it easily enough. It%26#39;s karaoke insofar as there is a live band taking requests - the requestor does the singing - I am sure they would have no problem with you borrowing an instrument or two and doing a couple numbers - the crowd would love it. We had a blast when we were there with our guide.
Hello,
My fiancee and I will be getting married May 10th in Japan (she is Japanese). From there we want to go somewhere special for our honeymoon.
I know this is far from a simple question but we have narrowed it down (I think)to Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal or Tibet. One caveat is that we have to catch a flight back to the US from Japan on May 20th.
We are not tour group, ';Let%26#39;s shuffle off to the next significant place'; type of people. Culture, people, some hiking, time to soak it in are more apt descriptions.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Concerned about weather and getting caught in a regimented, robotic tour.
Thanks in advance,
Bruce
(Also posting in Nepal, Mongolia and Tibet. I apologize for the redundancy)
Hi Bruce,
With the destinations you listed, I suggest Bhutan. Amount Asian travelers, Japanese have most interest in this country. Also, if you two like culture, nature, tracking, art, weaving etc, go to Bhutan. Out of the most, I like the people their, so lovely!
Have a nice trip !
Hello,
Bhutan is definively a very special place. Although you have to arrange a prepaid tour, you can make it exactly as you want. There are no preplanned grouptours, just everyone makes his own itinary with a local agent. So you can fix it within the dates between your flights.The agent organises also your flight into Bhutan and back.
As done lots of times before, I warmly recommend the person we travelled with, and plan to do another trip next month: Nirvanaexpeditions.
Just let them know what you%26#39;d like to see and do, when, and they%26#39;ll build your personal itinary.Write to:Sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
Congratulations on your marriage! M.
Another flexible outfitter is Village Tours and Treks. www.villagetoursandtreks.com They will customize a trip for you ... just fill out a form. I have traveled with them in the past and love Bhutan!
Hi, congrats. My husband and I went to Bhutan and Nepal last year in May. We spent 6 days in Bhutan. We used Bhutan Scenic Tours. I actually hate tours and like to travel independently. Our guide was great, they used good vehicles and we were alone everywhere we went. We ate at restaurants most of the time (as opposed to buffet dinners at hotels). We loved the scenery and the people. One caveat, some of the hotels included in the package are not that great, and not romantic. so we actually paid extra to stay at the zhiwaling in paro (very nice). There are aman resorts everywhere, which i am sure are nice but super expensive. If you can stay at better hotels in punakha that would be good too because the hotel owned by the princess there is horrible. Anyway Bhutan is great, not touristy, beautiful and memorable. You wont regret it. Here is the website for the tour co we used.
www.bhutanscenictours.com
I%26#39;m talking with several operators right now for a 12-day trip this October. We%26#39;re a group of three women who want to trek (probably Druk Path and Bumthang cultural - or part of it) and also fit in some of the usual cultural activities (unfortunately, we won%26#39;t be there during a festival).
Has anyone had any experience with these agencies? Are there any questions that we should be asking these agencies (other than confirming the itinerary)? (e.g. questions about their fleet of cars, how many treks/year they guide, how we%26#39;d arrange payment, quality of their tents and other camping equipment) or are all of the agencies pretty much the same (give or take a little)?
Lhomen Tours and Trekking
Namsey Adventure
Tashi Tours and Travels
Yahngphel Adventure Travel
YuDruk Tours %26amp; Treks
We%26#39;re very grateful for any help!
Thanks so much!
Hello there
We also went (hubbie %26amp; I) at end of Dec, beginning of Jan. We didn%26#39;t trek, but did more sightseeing, cultural tour. We were in the same position ie all tour operators seem to be of same high standards and same price, so we sent an e-mail to 4 agencies saying the same thing, and that we wanted to do something special on 1st Jan for my 40th birthday. Only one company came back and said that they had noted that it was my birthday and that we would do something special - the rest sent normal tours through but did not acknowledge the birthday. (its a tough call but thats what worked for us)
We went with Bhutan Scenic Tours - www.bhutanscenictours.com and we had the most fantastic time and the best birthday I%26#39;ve ever had!
Would thoroughly recommend.
Thanks very much - that%26#39;s a great idea.
I%26#39;m planning a two week trip in October of this year. Can I wait until March/April to book this or is it critical that we book it now to ensure availability?
Many thanks!
I think you%26#39;ll be fine waiting until march/april.
We booked a trip for next month back in november, and still were able to get the flights we wanted - right after the Paro festival.
Have you chosen a tour company and are in discussions with them? If not, choose one and get in touch with them and ask their opinion.. (and trust me, they%26#39;re not going to goad you into making any decisions - at least mine didn%26#39;t).
You still have some time to book. The most important part is applying for your visa, but you must have a tour company to do so.
Your international flight is ialso mportant to look into in advance, due to the air wars.
I have attached a link to our company%26#39;s information page about the requirements for Bhutan. I hope this helps!
If you want to participate to one of the major festivals, you need a early booking, not because the accomodation but Druk Air has got only few planes operating international routes.
Otherwise you can consider to get there by land from India.
Bye
Alfama
I went there in October also. Actually, it depends if you want to get involved in any of their festivals. If yes, then better talk to your agent earlier. But April should be ok.
The first you have to choose the travel agent, cos most of the work like getting the visa, flight tickets, hotel booking, temples entry permits etc are their jobs.
By the way, they have some nice autumn leaves in October. Have a nice trip.
Thanks everyone! I%26#39;ve just booked my trip. I appreciate the help!
Has anyone traveled with Country Walkers or Adventure Center walking tours? Or has anyone had experience with other tours of Bhutan geared to walking (not serious hiking, just 4-5 hours a day of moderate walking).
Hi,
As you have to visit Bhutan on a pre-organised, pre-paid tour, you can make your very own itinary includung treks and walks. I think any touroperator can do this for you. I%26#39;d like to recommend our operator Nirvanaexpeditions. We did already twice a tour, and go again this Saturday for a tour combining a 3-day trek, shorter daywalks and sightseeing. I stress that I am a private person who pays for this tour and not an agent for them. For more information you can reach them at:Sonam.dorjee@nirvanaexpeditions.com
You are also welcome to ask me more questions, here or via TA mail.M.
We are in the process of finalizing our late October early November trip to Bhutan and have that portion all nailed down. We plan to spend three days in Siem Reap prior to heading back to Bangkok and on to the USA. We have a three hour layover in Bangkok. Can we check our bags to Siem Reap (Bangkok Airways)when we check in at Paro or do we have to claim them in Bangkok( thus going through Thai immigration)and go through the check in process? My first question on any forum!!
You%26#39;ll definitely have to reclaim your bags and check in again.
When we left Paro last month, the bag tags weren%26#39;t even the standard, electronic ones with final destination and interim stops - they were the old style rip-off ones with string..
If it%26#39;s any consolation, we were off the plane in BKK and through customs/immigration in less than 15 minutes. Sadly there was about a 30 minute wait for our bags to come out. I think you%26#39;re going to be cutting it very, very close.
Oz:
Thanks for the information. I was afraid that was the case. They haven%26#39;t released the winter schedule yet for Druk Air but I am planning to be on the safe side and reserve the last flight out of Bangkok for Siem Reap. Not too thrilled about the 0430hrs departure to Paro after a 17 1/2 flight from JFK that gets in at 4:30 PM the previous day. We took that flight in October 2006 in Premium Economy and it wasn%26#39;t all that bad. We%26#39;re planning to stay at the Novotel and get some rest for a few hours. If you have any other thoughts or suggestions feel free to pass them on.
we are thinking about visiting Bhutan during the last week in August and first week in September.
Is it going to be rainy? Is it a bad idea?
Thanks,
Juliana
Sorry this has taken a couple weeks to put up, but I wanted to make sure I got our pictures up on our website first. Additionally, I have posted reviews and photos of the three hotels we stayed at during our trip.
Day 1.
Caught the 5am non-stop from bkk-pbh. Was originally scheduled to stop in Kolkata, but that was changed due to the Paro festival and the elections, I believe.
Immigration was easy but slow, and I changed $400 US at the bank by luggage claim - didn%26#39;t know if we were going to purchase any major souvenirs. Turned out that was WAY too much money for the 7 days we were there.
Met by our guide, Pema, and took us immediately to the Gangtey Palace hotel in Paro. We were able to check in almost right away - they served us tea on the lawn overlooking Paro town in the meantime. We got a room in the central tower - really funky, old world and antique. Liked it.
Walked around Paro town, checked out a few shops - got an idea of prices for stuff. Had lunch at the Soechae Restaurant, on the same street as the taxi rank. It%26#39;s new, not in any guidebooks yet - the food was ok. We soon learned to ask for authentic Bhutanese food rather than the dumbed-down stuff they served tourists. Go spicy!
After lunch we were exhausted from our 2am wake up, so we had a nap at the hotel. Then we went to the National Museum, where we spent about 3 hours. I wanted to take the whole thing in, in detail. I liked it - it was good.
Dinner at the hotel (mistake) then off to bed.
Day 2.
Started early and hit the Paro market where I took a bunch of photos of people doing there market stuff. Then we drove to Thimphu, stopping quite a few times for photos. The road is still under construction so it%26#39;s a long drive.
Almost everything in Thimphu was closed because of the elections (the following day), but we managed to have lunch at the Takshang Hotel restaurant, and were treated to good Bhutanese fare.
We drove around the town, taking photos and getting doing some sightseeing. (Takin preserve, etc.)
Dinner was at the hotel (Druk) - was pretty good Indian food - I%26#39;d stay away from the buffet and order off the menu, however.
Day 3.
Election day. Thimphu is a ghost town! We went to Simtokha Dzong, Changangkha Lhakang, Dechenphu Lhakang, Pangri Zampa - took lots of photos. That took most of the day. We had lunch at the Druk, and dinner at Hotel Dragon Roots restaurant. The latter was really good.
Day 4.
Drove to Punakha, with the de riguer stop at Dochu La to check out the 108 chortens. It is a long, weaving drive - but we put on some good tunes and enjoyed the scenery.
We visited Punakha Dzong, which I think was my favourite. Lunch was at a small reataurant near Chimi Lhakang, after which we did the walk to Chimi Lhakhang. Saw quite a few tourists here.
Drove on to Wangdue Phodrang, where we stopped and checked out the town, then went onto our hotel - the Kichu Resort. Beautiful peaceful setting, no dogs anywhere and vegetarian food. Doesn%26#39;t get much better for me!
Day 5.
Explored Wangi Dzong before driving back to Thimphu to do some sights that were closed on election day. National Library, the national art school, etc. Lunch at Dragon Roots - again, great food. Lots of Ema Datse!!
After lunch we drove back to Paro, had dinner at our hotel. Then.. went off to a karaoke bar in Paro with our guide and driver. Had a great time! We were the only tourists there.
Day 6.
Hike to Takshang. Unfortunately my 40-yr old premature arthritic knees could not be coaxed to go any further past the cafeteria. Oh well, it was a beautiful day, great scenery, and good company.
After the hike we explored Rinpung Dzong as the sun was setting later in the day. very nice.
A major dinner at Soechae Restaurant, then we went out and played snooker until very late...
Day 7.
Early flight back to BKK. Very sad to leave the country.
It was a unique trip - glad we did it. We used Blue Poppy ( http://bluepoppybhutan.com ) Everything was handled well and according to our wishes. If you%26#39;re interested in our photos:
http://ozcanuck.smugmug.com/Travel/493714
There is also a folder under Airplanes with some shots of Druk Air - I%26#39;m a plane fan. There%26#39;s a distant shot of Mt. Everest there too.
Feel free to PM me or ask here with any questions.
Hi,
Thanks for a very interesting report. It is rare to see a report in this forum and this can be a better recommandation than words alone. Your pictures are beautiful, you really captured the essence of Bhutan. Glad you had a great time and hope you%26#39;ll be able to return and see more of the country. We%26#39;ll be there again in two weeks.M.
I echo the bhutan traveller%26#39;s sentiments-great report, wonderful pictures! They reminded me of some of my travels through other parts of the Himalayas-Kalingpong, Darjeeling,Simla,Nainital etc.
Thanks for your comments.
The Bhutanese are an incredibly photogenic people; and the country is stunning as well.
I hope we%26#39;ll be able to go back some time.
Thank you for detailed report and wonderfull pictures, I am planning to go to Bhutan on May 1st for 10 days.
I have one question for you, how much did you tip your guide and driver?
Tipping guides and drivers is against the law - however they all expect it.
We were very happy with both - they were a couple of great guys and really made the trip for us. You%26#39;ll have to judge yourself when you%26#39;re there. If they%26#39;re knowledgeable and enthusiastic, take you to different restaurants, etc. etc. - then go on the high side. $8-$10/day for the guide, maybe 75% of that for the driver.
ozcanuck
Thanks for taking the time to put this report together and the shots are great
We are starting our research for the next trip in 09
your name indicates you are ex aus
ausnomad
Yeah - emigrated to Australia in 2001, became a citizen.. then returned to Canada in 2005 for many reasons. Try to make it back down every year for a visit, and eventually intend to retire there.
Always wanted to go to Bhutan while we were in Oz, as it%26#39;s a much easier commute than from Canada - but the AUD$ was just too low while we were there. Much more attractive now, that%26#39;s for sure.
Have a great trip to Bhutan..
Hi David,
I just returned from Bhutan. Just a quick note to say that I loved your photos, especially the ones of the people.
So thanks for posting them.
It truely is an amazing country and I can%26#39;t wait to get back there.
Cheers from sunny New Zealand,
Anne
Hi!
My friends and I are considering two different itineraries for a 12 day trip this October. We do know that we need to book through a tour operator and are talking with a few right now.
Unfortunately, we aren%26#39;t able to make it for one of the festivals. We enjoy trekking and plan to do the Druk Path and several day hikes. One of our possible itineraries takes us to Bumthang; the other doesn%26#39;t. Is it worth the long drive (and is there a better way to break it up -e.g. visiting Phobjikha Valley on the way back)? Has anyone been to the Gasa Hot Springs? Any comments/thoughts on our itineraries are much appreciated!
First option:
Day 1: Fly BKK to Paro. Sightseeing in Paro.
Day 2: Paro, hike to Tiger%26#39;s Nest
Days 3-6: Druk Path trek.
Day 7: Thimpu. It will be a Sunday so hopefully the market will be open.
Day 8: Drive to Punakha, spend the night there
Day 9: Drive to the Phobjikha Valley, see the cranes if they are nesting, do some hiking
Days 10-11: Jakar
Day 12: Drive back to Thimpu - this would be a very long drive, right?
Day 13: Leave early morning from Paro
Second option - do the Gasa Hot Springs trek but do not go to Bumthang Valley
Days 1-7, same as above.
Day 8-10: Gasa Hot Springs trek (can this be done in 3 days?)
Days 11: Phobjikha Valley
Day 12: Thimpu or Paro
Day 13: Leave early morning from Paro.
The drive to Bumthang is long but beautiful. You can break it up by visiting Trongsa or Phobjikha (during the right time of year).
I actually switch your itinerary around a bit. Tiger%26#39;s Nest is very steep and I would suggest doing it at the end of your trip once you are used to the altitude in Bhutan.
I%26#39;ll second the comment on Tiger%26#39;s Nest. You will feel the altitude in a bad way that first full day. It is doable, but probably more enjoyable if you leave it until the end of your trip.
Hi,
definately do the Tigers Nest at the end of your trip, unless you live at high altitude.
Bumthang (Jakar) is beautiful so is the very long drive there. There are several monasteries, a dzong and other things to visit.
We did a two night hike there, the Bumthang Trek over the Phephe La (Pass) 3360m. While you weren%26#39;t above the bushline, the senery was just lovely. Especially as you walk through little villages. And as everywhere the people are gorgeous. The end of the trip took us to Ugyen Choling Palace, a museum now. Very interesting. The lady who used to live there has written a book on Bhutanese food and culture.
When in Bhutan, try the Bhutanese food. It%26#39;s delicious, rather then the European food.
We found it difficult to pay with credit card anywhere, so take plenty of US Dollar. You can pay with US just about everywhere. The arts and crafts are great. If you love fabric wait until you come to the Bumthang region.
This was supposed to be a quick note.....but by me rambling on you can see I fell in love with the country.
Enjoy your trip, I know you will and I don%26#39;t think it matters really who you go with. All the people are great there.
We went with Explore Bhutan. Just fabulous!
Enjoy, I envy you.
Anne from New Zealand
