Bhutan Backpacking Trip

Bhutan Backpacking Trip
Bhutan Backpacking Trip
Bhutan Backpacking Trip
Bhutan Backpacking Trip

About The Trip

Bhutan: A blessing and an example for the world.

With scattered dzongs, fortresses and monasteries, all waving flags and thundering bolts of valley's roar, Bhutan or the Dragon Land dazzles with unshakable cultural ethos, sounds of greens, and shades of the Himalayas. Where growth is measured in Gross National Happiness, where landscapes switch dramatically, where spirituality is the basic to lifestyle, where the environment comes first, and where people always smile – for a tourist, it is like finding a home. 

“The Land of the Thunder Dragon” – as it is rightly called, Bhutan is a little Himalayan hamlet. And you shall feel the vibes of happiness all around you – as soon as you enter Bhutan. With lofty Himalayan mountains, gusty rivulets crossing the valleys, the aroma of Momos and Datshi in the air, prayer flags, and massive Dzongs – a trip to Bhutan can never fail to mesmerise visitors.

This seven-day Bhutan Backpacking trip through the towns and countryside of Bhutan will let you see the country’s diverse sides, visit the numerous old forts and hike up to one of the highest monasteries in the world. Whether you love photography, want to embark on an exciting new trek or are drawn towards places that boast rich cultural diversity, the beauty of Bhutan is bound to mesmerise you with a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, majestic monasteries, and terrific trek locales.

Know that Indians don’t need a Visa to explore Bhutan. It’s just a travel permit that is required. This is the best budget backpacking trip to Bhutan you can ever wish for, and we promise to unveil the hidden gems of the land for you. If this creates ripples for the traveller in you, check out the itinerary for Bhutan Trip and book your next slot at the earliest.

Note: If you are a group of 5 or more, we offer customised trips on your preferred dates. For more details, contact us!

Trip Highlights

  1. Get a chance to explore Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Phuentsholing.
  2. Admire the countless heritage spots that make Bhutan famous for its unique culture. 
  3. Start your journey with an entry in Phuentsholing, the second largest town in Bhutan, lying on the southern border of Bhutan.
  4. Take a sprawl in urban Thimpu
  5. Stroll through Thimphu Main Street and the market area.
  6. Visit several monasteries during the Bhutan Backpacking Trip: Kharbandi Gumpa, Tashichodzong, Tiger’s Nest, Chemi Lakhang, etc.
  7. Stop over for a photo session at Tanalung Waterfalls.
  8. Reach Punakha through the Dochula Pass at 3,080 m. 
  9. Head to the most beautiful Dzongs amongst Bhutan’s 21 Dzongs – Punakha Dzong.
  10. Get a view of the Suspension Bridge and Chimmi Monastery.
  11. Go on a local sightseeing tour in Paro. Experience a soul-satisfying trek to a rustic monastery perched on the edge of a cliff: Tiger's Nest
  12. Explore Simply Bhutan Museum and Buddha Museum.
  13. Try Bhutanese Cuisine.
  14. Trek to Tiger Nest monastery.
  15. Treat your body with a Hot Stone Bath in hotel after Tiger Nest Trek.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Bagdogra Pickup, transfer to Phuentsholing and night stay.
Day 2: Traveling from Phuentsholing to Thimphu for a night stay.
Day 3: Thimphu sightseeing. Drive to Punakha in the afternoon.
Day 4: Local Sightseeing in Punakha and Drive to Paro
Day 5: Tiger Nest Monastery Trek and back to Paro for a night stay. 
Day 6: Paro Sightseeing and Travel from Paro to Phuentsholing
Day 7: On the final leg of the journey from Phuentsholing to Bagdogra. Drop at Bagdogra Airport. 

Note:

  1. This itinerary is a pre-determined fixed schedule for group tours. However, we can accommodate custom requests for tours.
  2. The pricing for the tour will be determined by the season and the number of individuals in the group. Please note that if only two people are in the group, the cost will be higher.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • To and fro travel in Bhutan
  • To and fro pick up and drop from Bagdogra
  • Meals - Dinner on Day 1, Day 2-6 Breakfast and Dinner, Day 7 - 1 Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a Hotel on a 2 or 3 sharing Basis ( 1 night - Phuentsholing, Punakha. 2 Nights - Thimphu & Paro )
  • Guide Charges - Rs 1500/day
  • Bhutan Sustainable Development fees - Rs 1200/day
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tour Leader from Plan The Unplanned ( If the group size is a minimum of 10 pax )
  • Trekking fee for Hike to Tiger's Nest

Exclusions

  • Any meals not included above
  • Any kind of personal expenses
  • Any kind of insurance (health, medical, life accidental, etc )
  • Anything not included above
  • Any Entry Fees to monasteries, monuments/ museums 
  • 5% GST, 5% TCS
  • Any fee for adventure activities
  • Any additional expenses arising out of unforeseen circumstances like cancellation/roadblocks/landslides/ strike or any other natural causes out of human control or any emergency evacuation expenses.

Pickup Points

Bagdogara Airport

Detail Itinerary



Details

Distance: 160 km

Driving Time: 04 hrs

Hey backpacker, 

Welcome to the Bhutan Backpacking Tour. Embrace yourself; you will experience the best of Bhutan in these seven days. You know, when you leave your home, you might feel a bit uneasy because of a foreign feeling; don't let it stop you. Just sip some water and get going. Since you are coming with us, we will fill all gaps that might occur otherwise. Leave space in your backpack for incredible upcoming memories. 

On the first day, we will pick you up at Bagdogra and transfer to Phuentsholing, the second largest town in Bhutan, on the southern border of Bhutan. We think of this town as the gateway to travel to heaven because every traveller stops here to enter this beautiful country. The clean air, greenery and mountain tops are the first glimpses of your travel destination. You will also get acquainted with your fellow travellers on the way. 

Know that Indians don’t need any Visa to explore Bhutan; it’s just a travel permit that is required. We begin by completing all immigration formalities and baggage checks. 

Later we will check into the stay and spend our night here.



Breakfast, Dinner

Private Vehicle

Hotel


Details

Distance: 180 km

Driving Time: 06 hrs

Your Bhutanese adventure commences after breakfast in Phuentsholing. En route to Thimphu, the captivating capital city, we'll delve into Bhutan's rich heritage with a visit to Kharbandi Gompa, also known as Rinchending Gompa. This historic Buddhist monastery, built under the guidance of the esteemed Queen Mother Ashi Phuntsho Choden, offers a glimpse into the nation's spiritual essence.

Our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Great Buddha Dordenma statue. Towering at a staggering 54 meters, this iconic landmark embodies both historical and religious significance.

Upon reaching Thimphu, you'll be comfortably settled into your hotel. As the vibrant city awakens in the evening, you'll have the opportunity to explore its dynamic nightlife and savor a delectable dinner.




Details

Embark on a captivating journey through Bhutan's cultural and natural wonders. After breakfast, delve into the country's heritage at the Simply Bhutan Museum, a living exposition. Witness the architectural marvel of Tashichodzong, a fortress monastery housing the King's throne room and offices.

The afternoon unfolds with a scenic drive to Punakha, Bhutan's former capital. Nature enthusiasts will be enthralled by the Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 stupas dedicated to fallen soldiers. Marvel at the engineering marvel - the 180-meter Punakha Suspension Bridge, adorned with thousands of prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

As the day draws to a close, indulge in a delectable Bhutanese dinner before settling in for a comfortable overnight stay in Punakha.

Highlights:

  • Simply Bhutan Museum

  • Tashichodzong

  • Dochula Pass

  • Punakha Suspension Bridge



Breakfast, Dinner

Private Vehicle

Hotel


Details

our day begins in Punakha with a visit to the majestic Punakha Dzong, a historic fortress serving as both a regional administrative centre and a monastery.

Next, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Chemi Lhakhang, a renowned Buddhist monastery known for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

The afternoon commences with a scenic drive towards Paro. Along the way, marvel at the breathtaking panorama from Paro Airport View, a vista encompassing snow-capped mountains and lush valleys.

Upon reaching Paro, the vibrant local market beckons. Here, you can indulge in delicious local delicacies, explore the lively atmosphere, and perhaps even experience a touch of Paro's rock n' roll scene.

The day concludes with a comfortable overnight stay at your Paro hotel.

Highlights: Punakha Dzong, Chemi Lhakhang, Paro Airport View.



Breakfast, Dinner

Private Vehicle

Hotel


Details

Trek Distance: 11 km

Driving Time: 01 hr

Trek Time: 06 Hours

After breakfast, we will explore sights in Paro and later visit Tiger Nest Monastery: a soul-satisfying trek up to a rustic monastery perched on the edge of a cliff.

The Taktsang Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest, perched majestically on a cliff which is 2,950 m above sea level, defies all engineering logic. It is one of thirteen Tiger's Nest caves in historical Tibet where Padmasambhava practised and taught Vajrayana.

The vehicle will drop you at the parking area & you have to trek on your own to and from Tiger Nest for around 6 Hours. Those who do not want to trek but still want to reach the top are advised to take a pony ride (self-sponsored).

The trail to Tiger's Nest Monastery is wide. It is mostly uphill, but the inclination gently rises. On the way, you will see waving colourful flags and scenery. Midway, stop to fill yourself with the monastery view and snap photos. The trail is relatively flat after the first half, which gives you the necessary breather. 

After we are done at the top, we will descend the same way. 

Later, we will rest with an overnight stay in Paro.



Breakfast, Dinner

Private Vehicle

Hotel


Details

Today's adventure begins with a delightful breakfast, followed by preparations to explore the wonders of Paro.

Our local sightseeing commences at the magnificent Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, a fortress monastery that embodies Bhutan's rich heritage.

Next, we journey to another iconic landmark, Ta Dzong. This historic fortress, now a national museum, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from its hilltop perch.

After a captivating exploration of Paro, we'll embark on a scenic drive back to Phuentsholing, savouring the picturesque beauty along the way.

Upon reaching Phuentsholing, the evening provides an opportunity for group bonding activities and delectable local cuisine.

Highlights: Paro Dzong, Ta Dzong.




Details

Distance: 160 km

Driving Time: 04 hr

Wake up, get ready, and grab some breakfast before we make our way back home. We will go back the same way as we came. In the final leg of the journey, we will take you from Phuentsholing to Bagdogra, where we will drop you off to end the Bhutan backpacking tour.

Here, at Plan the Unplanned, we focus on two aspects of travel: exploring nature and making meaningful connections. You will start as strangers but leave with dewy eyes by the end. We would love to see you againCheck out our other itineraries and ring us soon. It would be a pleasure to see you again. Till then, take care and love life.


Things To Carry

We request you to kindly carry the following. It’s better to be prepared rather than not prepared.

  • A Rucksack to stuff your clothes and all the necessities
  • Passport and Passport size photos ( Validity of 6 months )
  • Tupperware Water bottle, avoid the use of plastic disposable water bottle
  • A small daypack to carry your trek essentials
  • Hiking shoes and Floaters
  • Warm Layers, socks, gloves, woolen caps, thermals
  • Undergarments as required
  • Raincoat
  • Sunscreen, Suncap, and Sunglasses
  • Toiletry kit
  • Medical kit with your basic medicines
  • Dry bags to stuff used clothes or wet clothes
  • Biodegradable waste bags to not litter around
  • Snacks, dry fruits

Policy and Terms

Here’s the cancellation policy for Himalayan Treks/Backpacking Trips/Road Trips

  • If you cancel before 30 days – 90% of amount will be refunded
  • If you cancel between 20 -30 days – 75% % of amount will be refunded
  • If you cancel between 15-19 days – 50%  will be refunded
  • If you cancel between 7-14 days – 25 % amount will be refunded
  • If you cancel between 0- 7 days before the departure date – No amount would be refunded.

Note: For All The Above Refund Cases Transaction Fees/Internet Handling Charges will be dedcuted from the overall amount and balance amount shall be refunded. You can transfer your ticket to anyone so that you could save your hard earned money

For other trips and travels with us, and detailed terms and conditions check the  following link https://www.plantheunplanned.com/refund-cancellation-policy

How to Reach

 

FAQ's

 

Additional Information

  • Arrival flight to be booked before 11 AM and departure flight to be booked after 2 PM
  • At Plan The Unplanned, we expect travellers to be flexible with the itinerary as there could be few minor changes depending on the situations and the tour leader decision shall hold final.
  • We expect the fellow travellers will be friendly and be accommodating the other fellow travelers and avoid any issues as regards accommodation or for any reasons whatsoever.
  • It is important to note that our group values travelers who are willing to cooperate and respect the local travel culture, rather than expecting additional luxuries. Thank you for your understanding.
  • You need to carry the Original Passport and 3 Passport size Photographs. Make sure your passport has a validity of min 6 months.
  • Personal expenses are to be borne by you.
  • Indian Denomination of Rs 500 notes are accepted in Bhutan . However we would advise when you enter bhutan you can exchange the notes to Bhutanese currency.
cover pic

From : INR 45000/-

INR 36000/-

per person


April
13

Next Upcoming On

Saturday - April 13, 2024

Show +12 Date(s)


*Prices will vary for Long Weekend
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