Start Location: Thimpu Bhutan

Finish Location: Paro Bhutan

Country: Nepal, Bhutan

Group Size: 2 to 16

Trip Style: Signature

 

Joining Point 

 

Airport Arrival Transfer Included Only available On The First Day Of Your Trip

Finishing Point

 

Airport Departure Transfer Included Only available On The Last Day Of Your Trip

Essential trip information

Bhutan is Asia’s best-kept secret. A Himalayan Kingdom landlocked in the Eastern Himalayas overshadowed and nestled between China and India-it is a relatively new travel spot, with many undiscovered secrets.Shrouded in mystic and magic Bhutan offers breathtakingly natural beauty with dramatic landscapes- subtropical plains, steep mountains and valleys that will leave you in awe. Bhutan offers a unique culture heritage and has a main focus on the gross national happiness of its people.

Fortified monasteries and scared mountains await you as you traverse this truly amazing country.

 

Day 1

THIMPU

Welcome to Paro, upon touchdown our representative will be at the airport to whisk you off to the hotel. Drive through verdant forests and picturesque valleys until you arrive at Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan. After checking-in meet your tour leader for a pre-trip briefing at 1pm then head out to get acquainted with the city as you step out for an orientation walk designed to open up your senses to first impressions and more. Later, sit back and get to know your fellow passenger over a welcome dinner.

 

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Included Activities: Airport Transfer

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

 

DAY 2

THIMPU

Following breakfast, make a foray into the cultural aspect of Bhutan by visiting its most important centres of learning. Starting with the National Memorial Chorten-a monument constructed to commemorate the third Druk Gyalpo or Head of the Kingdom. Drift through the National Library that is a repository of Bhutan’s cultural heritage and Buddhist literature, and then end up at the Zorig Chusum Institute to observe young artists deftly move their fingers or hammer metals into shape, in an effort to keep the traditional arts of Bhutan alive and indeed thriving. Later in the afternoon, drive up to the Drubthob Lhakhang nunnery to observe snapshots of life as it is here, as well as the panoramic views that the road en route affords.

 

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Included Activities: National Memorial Chhorten, National Library, Institute for Zorig Chusum

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional activities: Nil

 

DAY 3

PUNAKHA

Follow the road to Punakha – approximately 3.5 hours drive via the Dochula Pass – ornamented by mountain vistas and hills that stretch out to the blue horizon. Once the afternoon settles in, walk through the rich green fields of paddy to end up at the Chimi Lhakhang or The Temple of the Divine Madman – a quirky temple built by an unorthodox Buddhist monk and listen to the story of its inception that’s just as quirky as its murals! Once you’re done visiting the temple, head across to the farmlands and get an insight into the day-to-day existence of its denizens here.

 

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Included Activities: Walk to Chimi Lhakhang, Farm Visit

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

 

DAY 4

HAA VALLEY

Explore the approximately 400 years old Punakha Dzong in the forenoon before driving out to Haa Valley. Despite the frequent fires and natural calamities that have wrecked damage to the Dzong, modern renovation and preservation efforts have kept alive its reputation as arguably the most aesthetic among all in Bhutan. Indeed, with the waters of two rivers washing its sides as well as green hills rising behind it, the prophesy of its
construction and beauty does seem aptly consummated. Walk through its seven stories and then exit to drive for approximately 5 hours to Haa Valley, a quiet getaway cradled by pine forests, green hills and a river that crawls across the valley floor. Almost as if to live up to its name – Hidden Rice Valley – Haa lies suffused in stories wrapped in mystery, magic and myth, some of which you might uncover as you visit the Monastery of Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) followed by the Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple).

 

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel

Included Activities: Punakha Dzong and Haa Valley Sightseeing

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

 

DAY 5

PARO

Driving east, up the steep and highest pass of Chele-La, standing at 4200 metres, gaze at the distant mountains of Chomolhari (6700 metres) and Jichu Drakey before plunging down pine forests and rhododendron clad woods to reach Paro. When you get there, lace your boots up for a hike up the Taksang Tak Monastery, perched seemingly precariously against a precipitous cliff and ready yourself for a magnificent view of one of Bhutan’s most enduring images. Head back to Paro after this excursion and if you have the time, take a walk through the local market or sample some of the fare at a local brewery before
ending your adventures over a last dinner.

 

Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel iconic

Included Activities: Taksang Tak Monastery

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 6

Paro

It’s time now to bid farewell to your tour leader and new friends but not without a backpack full of memories. Departure transfers are included on the day.

 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Itinerary disclaimer

 

Itinerary Changes

The itineraries for One World Adventures are updated on a regular basis during the year, reflecting the current situation in each of our destinations and customer feedback. Information that forms the Essential Trip information may vary from your initial booking and it is vital that you read and review the information provided before your departure. This will provide you with the latest information. Your itinerary may change once you’re in the country- as a result of transport schedules, changes in weather conditions, public holidays and varying local conditions. To ensure our guests have the best experience, the scheduled activities in each location may vary in order and time depending on the season travelled. Your tour leader will inform you of any changes once on the trip.

 

Optional Activities

Our optional activities selected have been popular with past guests and are listed in the itinerary. This list is only some of the activities you can enjoy and should be used as a guide only to what is available. Prices are for entry only and do not include transport to and from the sites or local guides. Prices are approximate and the activities are subject to availability. Some activities maybe on a join-in basis. It is not possible to participate in all the activities listed due to the limited time in each destination. Planning ahead and choosing the activities that suit you is highly recommended.

Pre-booking recommendations for activities will be noted in the Special information listed in the daily itinerary. Usually, activities can be organized independently on the day or alternatively inform your tour leader and they can assist you make the arrangements.

We have assessed and sighted the credentials and safety of the operators chosen for medium and high risk activities and work closely with them. As such, medium to high risk activities not listed in the itineraries (that may be less expensive) are not recommended as we cannot guarantee there quality or safety. Therefore, our staff or tour leaders will not assist you with organizing these activities. It is at your own risk and discretion if you decide to participate in activities not listed in the itinerary.

 

Feedback

We value the important feedback received by our past guests. All feedback is read and improvements to our itineraries and destinations are made. Share your experiences and let future guest gain valuable insight into One World Adventures. https://oneworldadventures.com/feedback

 

Emergency Contact Information and Issues.

Our aim is to provide the best possible experience for your holiday. Due to the nature of travel and the places we visit, not everything will always go to plan. If issues arise on your tour, please inform your tour leader or local representative so we can try and rectify the issue at the time. This will help mitigate any negative impact on the rest of your trip.

Unfortunately, a resolution to the problem may not be achieved to your satisfaction- in this event please inform your tour leader that you wish to speak to their direct manager.

We recommend guests provide online feedback within 30 days of finishing your trip, acknowledging that it is very difficult to provide practical assistance once the trip is completed. Letting us know at the time allows us to try and resolve any issues promptly.

 

Passport

International travel requires a valid Passport with at least six months validity. Your passport details are required for the completion of your booking. It is important that you ensure that the name on your passport matches exactly the name on your booking and airline tickets. Contact us immediately if they do not so errors can be corrected.It is highly recommended that you carry copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you and also leave copies with family or friends in case required.

 

Visas

All visa requirements are the responsibility of the traveller. Changes to entry requirements may change at any time and therefore, it is import that you check your government’s foreign travel advisories as well as Consular websites for all countries that you are travelling to. This is important so you have the most up to date information that is specific to your nationality and circumstances.Whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place other sources of visa information available on line may not be up to date or valid.

Once you have booked your trip it is your responsibility to research visa requirements, obtain the necessary documents, now the processing time and application needed for the visas for all countries you are visiting. Visas can take several weeks to process. You can apply directly through a consulate or a booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service.

 

BHUTAN

All nationalities require a visa for Bhutan. Travellers can only enter Bhutan on a group visa as part of a tour. Independent visas are not issued. The cost of the visa is included in your tour.

Please provide your booking agent with the following at time of booking in order for us to apply for your group visa:
- a clear uncut scanned colour copy of the two pages of the personal details section of your passport
- email address you will access while travelling
- arrival and departure flight details

Due to the controlled nature of travel in Bhutan the group visa can only be submitted once we have the above details from ALL travellers in the group. Failure to advise any of the information as above can slow the visa issuing process, and delay the visa for the whole group. Generally visas are issued within 5 days of departure and as close as 48 hours prior to travel into the country. 

We will send your group visa to your travelling email address. Please print this group visa as you must show it at check-in for your flight to Bhutan and on arrival at immigration in Bhutan, where you will have an entry stamp placed in your passport.

Please note that the visa is issued by the Royal Government of Bhutan and will contain the nationality and passport number of every member of the group who is travelling on the same departure.

 

Health Screening

If you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home. Contact us to make alternative arrangements.

If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required.

 

Food and Dietary Requirements

Experiencing the different and amazing foods of the places we visit during your tour is part of the experience in travelling. Not all meals are included in the tour price and this allows for flexibility in choice. Choice of where, when and with whom you want to eat with. Your tour leader can provide some recommendations of places to eat and this allows for better budgeting for you.

Please advise any dietary requirements. Our group meals provide an opportunity to try many dishes as well as enjoy the company of your fellow guests.

 

Accommodation

Accommodation during the tour may vary- some may be basic and simple with shared bathroom facilities-some with cold water. Air-condition rooms are available. Some countries experience daily load shedding where the power may be turned off at set times during the day-usually early afternoon. Many of the hotels have cafes or restaurants that serve local meals. Please be aware that some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.

 

Showers

Hot water peak times for showers are usually morning and evenings in some accommodation. outside these times you may need to speak with the reception to obtain hot water.

 

Room Issues

Addressing any issues with your room requires immediate attention-please speak with the reception or tour leader so issues can be resolved promptly. Speaking with the travel agent will delay the issues being addressed.

 

Transport

Our tours will involve travel on may forms of transport. Theses include- bus, private vehicle, rickshaw and cycle rickshaw, metro, train, taxi, shuttle buses, jeeps,vans, boats-ferries and airplanes. Some of these modes of transportation will no be the same standed as u are use to. One world adventures audit our suppliers regulaly to make shore transportation is off a safe standed

 

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

 

Your Tour Leader

Tipping your tour leader for outstanding service provided to you on your tour is a personal preference and the amount is discretionary. However, as a guide US$3- US$5 per person (in local currency), per day can be used. You are free to tip more or less, depending on how you feel the service was provided. Please remember that tipping is not compulsory and should e given for excellent service. Giving coins, dirty or torn notes or small denominations is considered culturally an insult.

 

Tipping Kitty:

Your tour leader pays for all tips for drivers, local guides and hotel staff only. Restaurant tips are not included nor tips for your tour leader.

 

Spending money:

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

 

Commissions:

The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. Rather than turning a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas, monies collected will be distributed to local businesses, One World Adventures Charities and to providing sustainable travel.

 

Main Luggage

Depending on the time of year you are travelling, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You need to to be able to lift and carry your luggage and walk short distances. This includes up and down stairs and busy railway stations. The smaller your luggage the easier it is to store above or under bunks on overnight trains and public transport. Aim for around 15 kg. Small wheeled suitcases are easy to pick up and carry. Backpacks are also a good option. Our guests find that lighter luggage cause less worry and lead to a more enjoyable trip .

 

Day pack

A small day pack is very useful for carrying your essential items when exploring destinations and for overnight stays.

On overnight trains packing essential items provides ease of access.

oneworldadventures.com/packing-list

 

Wifi

As a rule, WiFi is generally available in most parts of the destinations you travel and in the accommodation we use. Most hotels provide free WiFi in public areas but remember charges for in-room Wifi may occur. Always ask your tour leader on arrival to the hotel.

Usually, in tourist areas-most cafes and restaurants will have free WiFi available- always check and ask for passwords when ordering.

 

Tour Leader

One of our tour leaders will accompany you on all our trips. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and provide you with the best trip we can. One World Adventures aim to provide the services of an experienced tour leader. However, sometimes a tour leader may be new to a region or training other tour leaders.

Providing general information on the destinations visited, offering suggestions on available sightseeing and activities, recommendations of local places to eat and introducing you to our local friends is there main objective. A broad general knowledge of the historical, cultural, religious and social aspects of the destinations being visited will be provided.

One World Adventures aim to support the local tour guides that have the knowledge of the specific area visited. If you would like more in-depth knowledge of a specific sight nor location , your tour leader can recommend a local guide service for major destinations.

 

Personal Belongings

It is strongly recommended that you use a neck wallet or money belt when travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, airline tickets, cash and other valuable items. Ideally, leave valuable jewellery items t home. Many of our hotels provide safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of safe keeping valuables. A lock for your luggage is recommended.

 

Most National Governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your Government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: 

www.oneworldadventures.com/safety-policy

 

Free time

Included activities will be supported by your tour leader. However, during your tour there is free time provided to relax, take it easy, pursue your own interests and explore the destination at your own leisure. It is important that your use good judgment when choosing activities during your free time.

Important to note- the tour leader has the authority to cancel or amend any section of the itinerary if deemed necessary for safety concerns.

 

Personal Safety

When travelling in tourist areas and cities there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft.

It is recommended that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and preferably walk together or if alone stay in main areas that are well lit. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

Scams

Scams involving ATM and credit cards, train tickets, taxis, temple donations and tourist guides operate in a lot of countries. If you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back- but they can issue you with an official loss report for insurance purposes.

 

Travelling on a group tour

Group travel will expose you to all the pleasures and also the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow guests will likely come from all around the world. We ask you to be understanding of the different needs and preferences of the group. Patience's sometimes a requirement that will benefit everyone’s travel experience.

You too have a responsibility to the group- this includes being on time or at a particular place when requested - this ensures your group isn’t left waiting for you.

The best tours work well when the dynamics of the group work well and everyone is considerate to each other.

Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with the contact details or any personal information about your fellow guests that are booked on your trip-prior to departure.

Solo travellers

One world Adventures is ideal for the solo traveller as they want to meet and share the experience with like-minded people.

Solo travellers will be paired with another traveller that is a the same gender

(as identified on your passport or the information provided in our booking system), so if you identify differently, please let us know in advance. We provide a Single Supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room.

Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour.

All pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will on a single room basis.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against adventure activities, personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US $200,000 for each categories of cover. We also recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You alone are wholly responsible for arranging your insurance. The period of cover should start no later than the date you make your booking with us. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24 hr Emergency contact number on the first day off your trip; You will not be able to join the trip without this. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you, rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

 

A couple of rules

All travellers have the right to feel safe whilst travelling. One World Adventures do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), sexual harassment-between our guests or involving our tour leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a guest are strictly forbidden. 

Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. We encourage responsible drinking if you choose to consume alcohol when travelling. Abiding by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption is important.

The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, we recommend no participation in this activity.

By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines. 

The decision of the tour leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a tour leader, or interfere with the well-being or operation of the tour group, the tour leader may instruct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund.

One World Adventure reserves the right to refuse you participation in any further tours. 

If someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately.