At a Glance
This seven-day-six-night adventure takes you to the heart of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan with return scenic helicopter flights between Punakha and Paro offering you an once-in-a-lifetime experience to enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountain peaks.
From hiking up to the gravity-defying Tiger's Nest Monastery to visiting the Temple of the Divine Madman, this trip combines spectacular drives, unique nature walks and fascinating monastery visits. You'll venture into the kingdom's heartland exploring three important but distinctly different valleys: The Laya Valley (also known as the hidden paradise), the tropical Punakha Valley with its magnificent Dzongs, and the emerald Paro Valley, with rice paddies and ancient temples.
Throughout the adventure you return each night to the luxurious COMO Uma lodges, where you can use the library, swimming pool, steam room and gym. ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Scenic flights by Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services between Punakha and Paro
- The private services of an experienced English-speaking Bhutanese guide
- One 60-minute COMO Shambhala body treatment
- Private airport transfers and transport around Bhutan#
- All Bhutanese government visa and royalty fees, service charge and sales tax
- All museum and visitor centre entry fees and road permits
- Five-and-a-half days of privately guided excursions, exploring highlights of Paro, Laya and Punakha Valleys
- Complimentary use of the library, swimming pool, steam room and gym at COMO Uma Paro
- Complimentary wireless internet throughout COMO Uma Paro and COMO Uma Punakha
- Accommodation for four nights at COMO Uma Paro and two nights at COMO Uma Punakha on a full board basis, including picnic lunches during excursion days (excluding beverages)
- Complimentary one-hour daily yoga class whilst at COMO Uma Paro (except Sundays)
Itinerary
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Upon arrival at the airport you will be greeted by your guide before embarking on the 10-minute transfer to your accommodation. After check-in and relaxation, you will be guided to Paro town for sightseeing and a temple visit. This afternoon trip allows you to acclimatise to the rarefied air at the altitude, as well as the chance to get to know your personal guide. |
COMO Uma Paro
Lunch, Dinner |
Walking distance: Approx. 5 - 7 hours walking (Easy to moderate) (depending on time spent in National Museum and Paro Town) Today you will walk through pine forests to the pretty grounds of the fortresslike monastery of Zurig Dzong. Traverse to Ta Dzong, home to Bhutan's National Museum, offering magnificent views over Paro town. Venture down to Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on a Heap of Jewels). The trail then leads across Paro Chhu river via the traditional covered bridge Nyamai Zam, and then past the main archery ground, Ugyen Pelri Palace, and into Paro town. Driving a few kilometres north of Paro, you can pay your respects at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan with its magical orange tree that bears fruit all year round. Time permitting, you'll be driven further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, built in 1648 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to control the northern route to Tibet. |
COMO Uma ParoBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Flight: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes flying Take a helicopter and fly to Punakha across the scenic Laya village (3,800m). The Layaps people call their home ‘Beyul’, which is a Buddhist word for a hidden paradise. They believe that they are protected by an ancient gate leading to the main village, used by their guardian deities to keep a Tibetan invasion at bay. At an annual ceremony, the Layaps pay homage to the protective forces, who turned all the stones and trees around the gate into soldiers to repel the invaders. From the west of the village you can view the mountains of Gangchen Tag (6,784m), Tshendag Gang (6,994m) and Khang Bum (6,494m), and also catch a glimpse of Masa Gang (7,194m). You can also visit a Laya temple and try yak riding before a picnic. Your vehicle will be waiting at Zomlingthang Punakha to transfer you by road to COMO Uma Punakha, which is a 20-minute car journey. *note:Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Ltd is subject to availability and reserves the right to cancel or change flight route subject to weather conditions |
COMO Uma ParoBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Walking distance: Approx.6 - 7 hours walking (Easy to Moderate Grade) This is a full day of exploration through the lush Punakha Valley, which at 1,200m is low enough for bananas and oranges to grow. The morning starts with a short walk across farmhouses and rice paddies to reach Chimmi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint, perhaps better known as the 'Divine Madman'. This site has long been a pilgrimage for couples hoping to start a family. Heading further down the valley, the 300-year-old Punakha Dzong comes into view. Built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (who founded the Kingdom of Bhutan) the fortress once housed the country's government. It is now the winter home of Je Khenpo, the head abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1,000 monks. After lunch, the tour takes you on a walk through homesteads and farmland to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a shrine recently built by the royal family. |
COMO Uma PunakhaBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Flight: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes flying In the morning you will be flown from Punakha to Paro Valley, offering an aerial view of Punakha Valley and Punakha Dzong. Before turning to Thimphu Valley - now clearly visible from its northern approach - you will see Dochula pass, a road pass snaking up through the breathtaking alpine mountains. The clear views of the Himalayas stretch before you, including the wonder of Mount Jhomolhari which rises up to 7314m. This magnificent mountain peak marks the western border of Bhutan, with China beyond. Climbing even higher in the rugged Himalayas (around the height of the permanent snow line) an amazing turquoise lake appears amongst these uncharted peaks. Yak herder camps also visible below. As you slowly descend back to the Paro Valley, you are greeted with aerial views of the ancient Drukgyel Dzong and of the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, which suddenly appears from behind its western ridge. Your vehicle will be waiting for you at the Paro International Airport to transfer you to COMO Uma Paro, a 10-minute drive. After you return to the hotel, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing in the calm setting or try your hand at archery, Bhutan's national sport. *note:Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Ltd is subject to availability and reserves the right to cancel or change flight route subject to weather conditions |
COMO Uma ParoBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Walking distance:Approx. 9 km return, 4 hours walking (Moderate Grade) Tiger's Nest Hike The historical Paro Valley is the focus of today's activities, culminating in a visit to the Taktsang 'Tiger's Nest' Monastery, which is one of Bhutan's most important landmarks. It's built on a sheer cliff face at an altitude of 3,120 metres (10,240 ft). This temple is a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site in the kingdom, and Bhutan's most iconic landmark and religious site. The four-hour return hike offers spectacular views of this sacred monastery perched on the rocks, 900m above the valley floor. According to legend, this cliffside is where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) landed on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan from Tibet. The trip starts early in order to avoid the hot sun during the two-hour climb to the Tiger's Nest viewpoint. You have a steep hike, passing a waterfall and ending among beautiful murals at the monastery's main entrance. If time allows, there is the chance to head up to visit remote temples. After lunch - either a prepared picnic or from the charming Taktsang cafeteria - you return to COMO Uma Paro, where you can enjoy the steam rooms, gym and swimming pool or a COMO Shambhala treatment. |
COMO Uma ParoBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Your 10-minute transfer to Paro International Airport will be arranged according to your flight schedule. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Daily departure on request. Please contact us to book if you have a group.
More Info
- The departure point is Paro
- The finish point is Paro
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Paro. We recommend you fly from Bangkok, Delhi or Singapore into Paro. In Bangkok, Aman has an airport representative who will assist with check-in. Drukair, and Bhutan Airlines are the only airlines that operate in and out of Bhutan.
We offer complimentary services to book all flights on your behalf. Airfare quotes will be provided upon request.
Flight Routes to Paro Bhutan
Approximately 7 hours easy to moderate walking for 2 days and 8 hours moderate to hard for 1 day. We can tailor the walking program to suit your fitness level.
Day 1: Arrival
Day 2: Approximately 5 - 7 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
Day 3: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes flying
Day 4: Approximately 6 - 7 hours walking, easy to moderate grade
Day 5: Approximately 1 hour 20 flying
Day 6: Approximately 6 to 8 hours walking, moderate to hard grade
Day 7: Depart
Bhutan has four distinct seasons. Bhutan can be enjoyed in any season.
Spring & Autumn Seasons (Mar - May, Sep - Nov)
The weather is ideal in spring and autumn. Generally, it's clear and mild weather with excellent scenery, lower rainfall and a range of festivals called Tshechus and Dromchoes. Himalayan views are best in October, while rhododendron blooms peak in March and April. However, they are peak season for tourist visitors and you can expect some congestion at major tourist sights.
Winter Season (Dec - Feb)
The weather is still pleasant, though it can be cold and temperatures fall below zero at night in December and January. During those months, it has snow to the higher regions however the southern regions and main valleys where visitors generally travel are considerably warmer. Paro and Thimphu normally experience only light dusting's of snow. Cool weather and clear skies is a great time for photography and valley hiking plus the opportunity for wonderful Himalayan vistas.
Summer Season (Jun - Aug)
Monsoon rains. High-altitude flowers are at their peak. Early-mid summer period June to July is good time to visit as there are less tourists.
Average Temperature in Bhutan
For more weather & climate information, please visit Tourism Council of Bhutan (http://www.tourism.gov.bt/about-bhutan/climatic).
Bhutan's infrastructure is continually being improved, which causes regular closures along the national highway. Delays are not uncommon. Some roads can be very degraded. You'll have experienced driver throughout the trip. The following is estimated travel time based on ideal road conditions.
Estimated Travel Time in Bhutan
Please note: Your Bhutan tourist visa application fee is included in this package. We offer services to arrange Bhutan tourist visas on your behalf.
All travellers (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders) to Bhutan are required to obtain tourist visas prior to arriving in Bhutan. Visa application requires at least 14 working days for handing. India, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders do not require a visa to visit Bhutan.
How We Apply a Bhutan Tourist Visa on Your Behalf
1. You need to complete a Pre-registration form and legal form (We will send to you after your booking.)
2. Return the forms with clear colour copies of your passport. Please note that each passport should have a validity of at least six months from the intended date of departure from Bhutan.
3. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs typically does not issue a visa until approximately 15 to 20 days prior to arrival. Once available, we will forward a copy of your visa for your reference.
For guests flying into and out of Bhutan via India, it is necessary to have e-tourist Indian visas or a regular double- or multiple-entry Indian visa. Please contact your nearest Indian embassy for more information. Please note that it will be all travellers' responsibility to make your own visa arrangements for any destinations prior to your Bhutan trip.
For more Bhutan Tourist Visa information, please visit Tourism Council of Bhutan (http://www.tourism.gov.bt/plan/visa).
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
