Cultural Tour in Bhutan

The 14-Day Cultural Tour in Bhutan takes you to an unforgettable sightseeing cultural tour of Bhutan, also famous as the 'Dragon Kingdom', and the last remaining Mahayana Buddhist Kingdom in the world. Experience why everything revolves around spiritualism and philosophy in Bhutan and why the Bhutanese pride themselves with their own Gross Happiness Index - a unique Bhutanese method of measuring ‘pursuit of happiness’. Bhutanese call themselves 'Drukpa' people, their country Druk Yul or the "land of the thunder dragon" and the country officially follows the Druk School of Buddhism with their own trademark of Mahayana Buddhism, exotic monasteries and lifestyle. Moreover, the country is also home to UNESCO's 10 centers for bio-diversity, all within a distance of 150 kilometers resulting in sub-tropical to Arctic-like climate.

This cultural tour combines Bhutan’s cultural and natural grandeur including cultural tours as well as day hikes to the monasteries. Beginning the tour from the scenic Paro Valley, we also visit Punakha, Bumthang, Wangdue and Thimphu with unique Bhutanese culture and lifestyle. Moreover, enjoy the hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery - Bhutan's most famous monastery situated at 3120 m/ 10200 ft. Besides the unique Bhutanese culture, you will experience breathtaking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan.

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Day 1: Arrive Paro (2250m / 7382ft):
Crossing over the Himalaya Mountains, the flight to Paro offers spectacular views of the awesome peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan. On arrival you will be greeted by the guide and transferred to the hotel. Later in the afternoon, you can visit shops in Paro town. Overnight hotel in Paro.

Day 2: Excursion to Chele La Pass (3810m/12,115 ft):
After breakfast, we begin an exciting excursion to Chele La Pass, a scenic drive of 22 miles from Paro. Walking along the high ridges dotted with colorful Buddhist prayer flags offers us stunning views of Mount Jumolhari and other mountains, plus incredible vistas into the valleys below the pass. Enjoy a picnic lunch while walking at the pass. After lunch, hike further down the ridges to the Kila Goempa Nunnery, which is nestled in a craggy patch on the mountain site below the pass and perched precariously along the rock face. Walk for a few miles through the coniferous forests to the road head, where the car will be awaiting to return you to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 3: Drive Paro-Thimphu (2320m/7610 ft): 54 km/1 hr
In the morning, we visit the Ta Dzong, once a fortified lookout tower that is now the National Museum. The museum has wide assortment of ancient paintings, armors, philatelic display and “field of Buddhas”, which helps one to visualize while meditating. Then we visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. After lunch, we drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The road leads through the Paro Valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu rivers at Chuzoum(confluence). Three different styles of Chortens adorn the confluence. A short way beyond, on the left is the Tachogang Lhakhang built in 15th century by Thangthong Gyelpo, a trader who first introduced Iron Bridges in Bhutan. Check into hotel on arrival. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.

Day 4: Thimphu (Elev. 2320m)
After breakfast, you will visit Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned from 1952-1972), Changangkha Monastery, Takin reserve, Nunnery temple and Folk Heritage Museum. After relaxing lunch, you will visit traditional paper factory, majestic Tashichhodzong and giant Buddha statue on a hill overlooking Thimphu which is reputed to be the largest Buddha Shakymuni in the world. In the evening, you can stroll through Thimphu city and absorb the lifestyle of the people. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.

Day 5: Drive to Punakha (1250m/4100 ft): 76 km/2-3 hrs
Morning scenic drive to Punakha with a stop for tea at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. You will arrive at Punakha after traversing through rice field and along the bank of Punakha River. Traversing through rice field and driving along the bank of the Punakha River, we arrive at Punakha. After lunch, we visit the Punakha Dzong, which is stunningly situated in between the male and female rivers like an anchored ship. Overnight hotel in Punakha.

Day 6: Punakha Village Tour
Today we make a sightseeing tour of the Punakha Village. Walk across a suspension bridge this morning, follow the road past farmhouses and gradually climb into the Dompola Hills. Enjoy spectacular views of the Punakha Dzong, the Phochu and Mochu Rivers and the surrounding village set amidst chir pine forest. Climb for another two hours to Limbhukha. Limbhukha is a village that is known for its love, peace and tranquility. Legend says that during the medieval wars the “limpus” or the people of Limbhukha always volunteered as peace negotiators. You can tour the village to learn about daily life – perhaps visiting a farmhouse or two for a cup of butter tea or an “ara” local wine. Continue walking to a nearby road where your vehicle is waiting to transfer us to our hotel in Punakha. Overnight hotel in Punakha.

Day 7:: Punakha-Bumthang (2850m/9350 ft): 214 km/7 hrs
After an early breakfast we drive to Bumthang, the cultural heartland of the country. The route is along a spectacular winding road, crossing 3,300-meter-high Pele La pass, and at certain times of year it's possible to see yaks. We stop in Trongsa for lunch. After lunch visit to Trongsa Dzong, the masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture. Then proceed to Bumthang with lush valleys and hilly forests. Along the way we stop at a yathra (textile weaving) factory, where the yathras are designed with patterns unique to Bumthang, and we can even watch some of the weavers at their looms. Check into hotel on arrival. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 8: Bumthang Sightseeing
Today's sightseeing in Bumthang includes Jakar Dzong, the administrative center of the valley; Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, dating from the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan; and Kurjey Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places, because Guru Rinpoche, a great 8th century spiritual master left his body imprint on the cave when he was meditating. After lunch, you will also have a chance to tour Tamshing Lhakhang, a treasure house of interesting religious Buddhist paintings. In the evening you can visit local shops. Overnight hotel in Bumthang.

Day 9:: Excursion to Tang Valley
We make an exciting excursion to the Tang valley, which is the most remote valley in Bumthang. From the road head, hike to the 16th century Ugyen Chholing Palace or the country manor, which is now turned into a museum. The well-captioned exhibits offer insights into lifestyle of a Bhutanese noble family. You will also explore nearby villages. On the way back to town, you will see Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), where some of Guru Rinpoche's treasures were found in the 15th century by the famous treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa. Overnight hotel in Bumthang.

Day 10: Bumthang-Wangdue (1240m/4068 ft): 197 km/ 6 hrs
Begin the day at the Bumthang market, and then drive to Wangdue. Along the way visit the typical Bhutanese town of Wangdue with its dramatic Dzong perched on a ridge at the bend of a river. The nearby villages are known for their slate and stone carvings. Overnight hotel in Wangdue.

Day 11: Wangdue-Thimphu: 70Km/3 hrs
Today, we return to Paro. On the way, we stop at Metshina Village and take a 20-minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, which is a fertility temple dedicated to the Devine Madman or Lama Drukpa Kuenley. If you wish, receive the blessing from the Lama’s wooden phallus! Lunch will be served at Dochula. At Dochula, you can also visit the new Druk Wangyal Monastery, which is the only of its kind in the country, with elaborate paintings depicting the lineage of the present monarchy and their visionary works. Then continue drive to Thimphu. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.

Day 12: Drive Thimphu-Paro: 54Km/1 hr
In the morning, we drive back to Paro. If it is weekend (Friday, Saturday or Sunday), we'll catch a busy weekend market at the bank of Thimphu River where people from nearby villages come here to sell their farm products. You can stroll through the market to see the variety of food of the country, including basket upon basket of fiery chilies, fresh cheese, and mangoes. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items. It's fun to wander the aisle, taking in the bustling atmosphere of the market. Perhaps this market scene offers wonderful opportunity for photographs and to mingle with local people. A Few minutes' walk toward south of Weekend Market is Chnaglingmithing Archery Range. If you are lucky, you will come across archery tournament in progress. In the afternoon, you will drive back to Paro. Overnight hotel in Paro.

Day 13: Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (3120 m/ 10200 ft)
After breakfast hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery - Bhutan's most famous monastery. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up on the mountain. It is absolutely breathtaking, situated at 10,400 feet and perched on the edge of a steep cliff about 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley. Guru Rinpoche (great spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. Lunch is served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about halfway up the mountain. Explore the monastery and hike down to the valley floor. Overnight hotel in Paro.

Day 14: Depart Paro
Drive to airport for departure. Today we bid farewell to the tiny Himalayan Kingdom and her friendly people. Druk Air generally departs in the early morning to avoid adverse weather conditions. Therefore, after taking breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport in the morning depending on the flight schedule and your destination.

Where is Nepal ?

Nepal is landlocked country located in southern Asia couched between two Asian giants India and China. Nepal is geographically, culturally and linguistically diverse. The capital city of the country is Kathmandu, commonly known as ‘city of temples’ where we can explore traditional artistic beauty. Draped along the greatest heights of the Himalaya, Nepal is where the ice-cold of the mountains meets the steamy heat of the Indian plains. Moreover, it's a land of yaks and yetis, stupas and Sherpas and some of the best trekking on earth. The Himalaya's most sophisticated urban cultures took shape here, in the three great mini kingdoms of the Kathmandu valley- Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur - home to a world-class artistic and architectural heritage.

What is Nepal known for?

Nepal is Known for Mt. Everest, highest peak in the world and Lord Buddha, who was the pioneer of Buddhist religion. Besides, among 14 eight thousand meters cross mountains in the world, eight are located in this naturally beautiful country. Nepal has been the focus of outstanding achievements in the world of peak climbing expeditions with the identification of more than one thousand peaks above 6,000 meters .Trekking through the Everest region offers astounding mountain views, an opportunity to take a glimpse into the life of world heritage sites, discovering variety of Himalayan flora and faunas, and an opportunity to explore the highest Buddhist monasteries in the world. Overall, Nepal is known for its hospitality and the local people believes in the mantra ‘Atithi Deba Bhaba’ (Guest are god).

Can I get Nepal visa on arrival?

Yes! Nepal visa is easily available up on arrival in the entry places. Make the process easier by downloading & completing the application form, having the correct USD cash and two passport photographs.

Visa Facility       Duration    Fee
Multiple entry    15 days        US$ 25 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry    30 days    US$ 40 or equivalent Nepali currency
Multiple entry    90 days        US$ 100 or equivalent Nepali currency

Is the country politically safe and stable?

Nepal is one of the new democratic countries in the world with many active political parties, ideas, ideologies and leaders. As such there might be some disturbances in some parts of the country. But it does not and will not affect the daily life of the residents in the other parts. Life moves on as usual, unperturbed.

How to enter Nepal?
Nepal can be enter by two ways,

By air: Some of the major international airlines operating schedule services to Nepal are Royal Nepal Airlines, British Airways, Biman Bangladesh, China South West Airlines, Druk Air, Gulf Air, India Air, Thai Airways, Qatar, Pakistan Air, Jet Air and Singapore Airlines. By air, you will arrive at the Tribhuvan International Airport (only one international airport) located in the heart of Kathmandu City.

By Road: There are several entry points by land route mainly from Nepal / Indian borders;

    Kakarvita
    Birgunj
    Bhairahawa
    Nepalganj
    Dhangadhi
    Mahendranagar

Scheduled public as well as tourist buses run to and from Kathmandu. Traveling by bus is recommended if you can cope with 10 to 12 hours of long drive in return for a fascinating mountainous views and snail tail roads that meet above the clouds.

Do you have Airport pickup facilities?

Definitely! We do have airport pick up facilities for our customers who have booked for our any packages. We don't charge any money. As the time you booked your trip, you have to inform us.

What is the best time to visit Nepal?
September and April are warm with the temperature ranging between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. In October, November, late February and March it is typically 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. In December and January it is much cooler, between 45-70 degrees Fahrenheit, and you may experience foggy conditions as well. As there is an ideal time to visit Nepal. Nepal can be visited the whole year round. Light weight clothing is recommended from May to October. Warm garments are required from October to March. An umbrella or a raincoat is a must for the rainy season.

How can I make the payment?
There are various payment options by which you can make payment to Glory Nepal team. You can make payment by cash, bank transfer, online credit card payment and Travelers checks. If you wish to use another option of payment suitable to you, then Glory Nepal will assist you for that.

Why should I book the tour through Glory Nepal?
Glory Nepal team is a recognized Holiday Planner and service provider related with the Nepal Tourism Sector. The Team of Glory Nepal is able to work on your any kind of travel requirements as it is associated with a team of Tour Escorts, Guides who are well trained, fluent in different languages and with long experience in related sectors. We do offer verities of Nepal Tour, Trek, Jungle Safari, Adventure packages but beside that we are best in organizing special tailor made itineraries in any areas of Nepal. As our motto is "Guest's Satisfaction is our Achievements" we are always here to assist you for your holiday to Nepal.

What does grading (Easy, Moderate, Difficult, Strenuous) means?

"Grading" is a term used for rating treks based on difficulty. According to Himalayan Glacier standards and experience, we have divided the trekking into four types, namely Easy, Moderate, Difficult and Strenuous- the challenge in terms of both technicality and geography increases as we move higher in that order. Thus, Easy Treks could be suitable for all while Strenuous and Difficult Treks are meant only for those who have certain experience and capability.

This can help you choose a trek or climb especially in the Himalayan Region that best suits your fitness level and experience. Please keep in mind that this is a general guide only. A variety of factors, including weather, may add to the challenge.

Easy Treks
No previous trek experience and any physical preparation are required to attempt this trek. An interest in walking will be enough to take up such treks. Such treks usually vary from 2 days hike to 5 days trekking and can reach up to an altitude of 3000 m. Treks usually on well maintained paths and passes through ridges and involve walking up to 5 hours a day.

Moderate Treks
Moderate Treks will require at least 6-7 hours of walking every day, crossing 4000 m above high altitude passes, and long and exhausting walks through often rough trails, rocks and boulders. Therefore, you will require physical and mental fitness, positive attitude and interests and previous hiking or camping experience is preferred. You should prepare to face high altitude.

Difficult Treks
Previous trekking experience and technical knowledge is essential in Difficult Treks. Besides walking through rough trails for 6-7 hours and crossing high passes as high as 5000 m, you will also be glacier crossings on snow/ice. You will be facing high altitude air with low level of oxygen and continuous walking over huge stretch of Himalayan valleys. Positive attitude and perseverance is required.

Strenuous Treks
Strenuous Treks involve long days, long hours of challenging walks, high altitude passes above 5000 m, difficult terrains and glacier and snow walking. No doubt you need to be mentally and physically fit and in excellent health condition. As part of technical requirements, you will require to have rock and ice climbing experience with the knowledge of use of ice axe and crampons. You should consider joining one of the rock climbing and glacier walking classes prior to heading for Trek.

Are there ATM facilities in Nepal?

There are many ATM machines in the Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley. ATM machines are slowly being introduced to other cities like Bhuwtal and Dharan.

What types of cards are accepted? Debit or Credit? Visas or Masters or Discovers or Dinners?

Most popular cards accepted in Nepal are VISA, MASTERCARD and American Express. Both Debit and Credit Cards are accepted here. American Travelers Cheques are also accepted in most Banks, Hotels, and Travel companies.

Are there any tourist police in Nepal?

Of course there is tourist police located near the Nepal Tourism Development Board's Office. Also, there are complaint counters at the airport and Basantapur Durbar Square. Tourist police are specially trained in English and have detailed local knowledge to assist tourists. For security and travel related assistance, you can reach any of the officers from telephone 4-247041, 4-4268969 during 11 a.m to 5 p.m

Is Nepal safe? Is a woman traveling alone safe with your company?

Absolutely Nepal is safe for traveler. Firstly, Nepal is considered as one of the peaceful countries in the world (chances are it's safer here than your home-country). Secondly, while you're on one of our trips, we take personal responsibility for your well-being, a responsibility we commit very seriously.

Entrance Fees

• All the entrance fees while sightseeing in the city.
• Guided Katmandu sightseeing tour by Car.
• All accommodation on B/B basis.
• 13% government tax where applicable.

International Flights

• International flights, visa and departure taxes
• Airport pick up and drop.

Personal Expenses

• Personal expenses such as drinks, postage, laundry

Other Expenses

• All the expenses in except mention in the include section

Domestic Airport Tax

• Domestic airport tax

Costs from unforeseen events

• Costs arising from unforeseen events outside our control

All the entrance feels for sight seeing in the city

International flights, visa and departure taxes

Tips for gratuities

Drink, Posatage, Laundry for Personal Expenses

Domestic Airport Tax