Sip, Shape, Sail – A 7-day Backpacking Trip to Vietnam
Duration
A 7-day backpacking trip to Vietnam.
Bhutan: A Winter Escapade
The trip cost assumes minimum 5 members join the trip. Each extra member joining will reduce per person cost. The final cost will be adjusted when you pay renaming amount.
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Overview
- Duration:8 days 7 nights
- Members:5 - 10
- Experience Type:Explore Together
- Language:English, Hindi
- Areas of Interest:Culture, religion, spirituality, nature
- Accommodation:Twin sharing
- Transportation:A private car with driver
- Meals:2x per day
Get ready for Bhutan! Announcing final details soon.
Join Poets And Pilgrims on a winter escapade to Bhutan this winter. Explore the Himalayan kingdom renowned for its rich traditions, breathtaking landscape, stunning monasteries, vibrant festivals, and a commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
The early winter months in Bhutan bring pleasant sunny days, clear skies with crisp, fresh air, and chilly nights. The clear days offer great views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Winter also offers an opportunity to spot migratory black-necked cranes around Phobjikha Valley. This being one of the least busy times in Bhutan, there is greater flexibility of plans and we have plenty of room for a slow-paced travel.
Like all Poets And Pilgrims travel experiences, this trip is crafted to offer a slow-travel experience where we won't rush between places. Our itinerary is flexible and not filled with sightseeing one after another.
All costs mandated by the Bhutan government - SDF, guide, and domestic transportation, as well as two meals per day are taken care of. Entrance fees are kept optional to offer flexibility and pay for only monuments we visit. With all the planning and nearly all costs out of the way, we will focus on slowing down and truly living the experience.
A lot of love, care, time and personal attention goes into planning a Poets And Pilgrims travel experience to make sure it stands out from the usual. If you appreciate the slow and conscious approach to travel, prefer a small number of people to travel with, and understand that travelling doesn't mean simply ticking-off bucketlists, you will enjoy the journey to Bhutan with Poets And Pilgrims.
Note: The itinerary below is just an overview. We do not disclose full plans. No two Poets And Pilgrims experiences are identical and the same goes for travellers. Plans are adjusted to the nature of the group so we get to experience the trip in the best possible way.
Join Poets And Pilgrims on a winter escapade to Bhutan this winter. Explore the Himalayan kingdom renowned for its rich traditions, breathtaking landscape, stunning monasteries, vibrant festivals, and a commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
The early winter months in Bhutan bring pleasant sunny days, clear skies with crisp, fresh air, and chilly nights. The clear days offer great views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. Winter also offers an opportunity to spot migratory black-necked cranes around Phobjikha Valley. This being one of the least busy times in Bhutan, there is greater flexibility of plans and we have plenty of room for a slow-paced travel.
Like all Poets And Pilgrims travel experiences, this trip is crafted to offer a slow-travel experience where we won't rush between places. Our itinerary is flexible and not filled with sightseeing one after another.
All costs mandated by the Bhutan government - SDF, guide, and domestic transportation, as well as two meals per day are taken care of. Entrance fees are kept optional to offer flexibility and pay for only monuments we visit. With all the planning and nearly all costs out of the way, we will focus on slowing down and truly living the experience.
A lot of love, care, time and personal attention goes into planning a Poets And Pilgrims travel experience to make sure it stands out from the usual. If you appreciate the slow and conscious approach to travel, prefer a small number of people to travel with, and understand that travelling doesn't mean simply ticking-off bucketlists, you will enjoy the journey to Bhutan with Poets And Pilgrims.
Note: The itinerary below is just an overview. We do not disclose full plans. No two Poets And Pilgrims experiences are identical and the same goes for travellers. Plans are adjusted to the nature of the group so we get to experience the trip in the best possible way.
Highlights
- Explore the beautiful Phobjikha Valley and a chance to encounter migratory black-necked cranes - a winter-exclusive experience
- A thrilling hike to Paro Taktsang aka Tiger's Nest
- Enjoy the slow-paced travel that priorities on truly living the experience
- An itinerary that balances various interests, time, expense, and rest with flexible plans - no rushing between places
- Stay in hand-picked accommodations that celebrate Bhutanese architecture and hospitality - skip the usual tourist hotels
- Skip the repetitive hotel buffet - we enjoy local delicacies for dinner
- Visit monasteries, temples, and museums to closely observe and understand the Bhutanese culture
- Immerse in traditional hot stone bath (optional)
- Spend time at a traditional homestay/farmhouse with friendly hosts and observe their lifestyle
- Relish freshly made food prepared by the family
- Enjoy breathtaking views throughout the trip as you drive around in a private car
Itinerary
Expand AllDay 1: Arrival - Bagdogra
- Pickup from Bagdogra airport around 12p.m. and transfer to Phunsholing.
Day 2: Thimphu
- Drive to Thimphu - the capital of Bhutan - and enjoy some beautiful views along the way (5 hours). We will stop for sightseeing.
- Once in Thimphu, we will visit Buddha Dordenma - the gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue and if time permits, National Memorial Chorten.
- Back at the accommodation, gather around for some conversations - the perfect opportunity to get to know each other better.
Day 3: Phobjikha Valley
- In the morning we go for sightseeng
- Later we drive to Phobjikha Valley (around 4:40 hours) where serenity awaits and we might spot some black-necked cranes.
Day 4: Punakha
- Before heading onwards, we go for a walk around the beautiful valley.
- Then we reach Punakha (around 3 hours) and go for a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang - a 14th-cenruary temple known as fertility temple, dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley who was affectionately known as the “divine madman”.
- Visit one more site based on the time left.
Day 5: Paro
- Before heading onwards, we go for sightseeing.
- Our last destination in Bhutan awaits us at Paro, some 4 hours drive away. On the way, we will stop for sightseeing.
- In the evening, we will stroll around the town. Do some shopping if you like and relax at the accommodation later.
Day 6: Paro - Hike to Tiger's Nest
- It's time to hike to Paro Taktsang, also known as Tiger's Nest. This spectacular monastery clings precariously to a cliff 800m (2,600ft) above the Paro valley. The hike is easy to moderate for fit folks and certainly not to be missed.
- After the hike, visit a temple depending on the time we have.
- How about rewarding yourself with a traditional hot stone bath and rejuvenate later? (Optional and paid directly at the place.)
- Let's gather around for some conversations later?
Day 7: Phuentsholing
- Our trip to majestic Bhutan comes to an end today. The rest of the time is basically driving to the border in Phuentsholing, finish the exit formalities, and spend a night there before leaving the next day for Bagdogra.
- Upon reaching Phuentsholing, we can stroll around.
Day 8: Departure - Bagdogra
- We will head to Bagdogra airport in the morning and say our goodbyes.
What's Included/Excluded
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) - Rs. 1200 per night charged by the government of Bhutan
- Bhutan permit online application on your behalf
- 8x nights accommodation (twin/double sharing basis)
- Breakfast for 7 days (no breakfast on arrival day)
- Dinner for 7 nights (no dinner on departure day)
- All transport within Bhutan in a private car. Plus transport between Bagdogra and Phuensholing
- Professional English-speaking local guide throughout the journey (mandatory in Bhutan)
- Any expense not mentioned before
- Travel expenses to and from Bagdogra/Bhutan
- Entrance fee at monuments or museums. Camera fees, if any
- Drinking water, extra meals, drinks, or any personal expense
- Insurance and emergency expenses
- Any change in expense due to change in currency value, laws/regulation
- Tips to guide, driver, or staff at accommodations (Tips are encouraged)
FAQs
Why should I travel to Bhutan with Poets And Pilgrims?
Poets And Pilgrims focuses on travelling as a life experience. We travel slow and do not rush between locations. Even with a group, you get to experience things as your pace. We work with people to organically cultivate relations and human bond. If your goal is to simply tick checkboxes, a Poets And Pilgrims trip might not offer a suitable experience for you.
I am finding a cheaper package to Bhutan. Why is Poets And Pilgrims cost higher?
Our focus is not simply sightseeing and the value is added through the experience you will come back with - an experience even we can't recreate.
Also, we are a small brand travelling with small a group of people. Bigger companies get volume discounts as they do multiple trips with large groups. Poets And Pilgrims works directly with accommodations, drivers, guides etc. and compensate them fairly. Cutthroat bargaining is not our thing.
Also, we are a small brand travelling with small a group of people. Bigger companies get volume discounts as they do multiple trips with large groups. Poets And Pilgrims works directly with accommodations, drivers, guides etc. and compensate them fairly. Cutthroat bargaining is not our thing.
Do I need a visa for Bhutan?
Indian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. A permit is required and is free of charge.
Is Bhutan an expensive destination?
All visitors to Bhutan are required to pay SDF and hire a guide, a car, and a driver. Accommodation is slightly more expensive. Majority of the monuments have entry fees. Considering all mandatory expenses and other per-person expense, the cost to visit Bhutan adds up quickly. But the money is well spent in the country with unmatched hospitality, delicious meals, gorgeous views, and experience of a lifetime.
What is SDF and how much is it?
Sustainable Tourism Fee (SDF) is a daily levy charged by Bhutan government and directly supports the country's healthcare, education, and environmental conservation. SDF is mandatory for every traveller entering Bhutan.
Indian nationals pay Nu. 1200 (or Rs. 1200) per night as SDF and it's included in the total cost. For other passport holders, the SDF is USD 100 per night and is not included in the trip cost.
Indian nationals pay Nu. 1200 (or Rs. 1200) per night as SDF and it's included in the total cost. For other passport holders, the SDF is USD 100 per night and is not included in the trip cost.
What is it like travelling to Bhutan in December? Will it be cold? Will it snow?
December is the first month of winter in Bhutan. Crisp and dry - ideal for the views of snow-capped Himalayan mountain peaks.
Temperature in Paro and Thimphu hovers around 14–17 ° C while at night it can fall close to 1 °C. Punakha is around 6-7 °C warmer than Thimphu.
Snow in Thimphu and Paro is rare in December. It might snow around Dochula pass and Phobjikha Valley but it's unpredictable in December.
In winter, we are likey to spot migratory black-necked cranes around Phobjikha Valley.
Temperature in Paro and Thimphu hovers around 14–17 ° C while at night it can fall close to 1 °C. Punakha is around 6-7 °C warmer than Thimphu.
Snow in Thimphu and Paro is rare in December. It might snow around Dochula pass and Phobjikha Valley but it's unpredictable in December.
In winter, we are likey to spot migratory black-necked cranes around Phobjikha Valley.
What will our accommodation look like?
Accommodation is not just a room we sleep in while on a trip. We wanted to stand out from the usual 3-star tourist hotels offered in packaged tours. We will stay at hand-picked properties that highlight Bhutanese architecture, hospitality, cuisine etc. Imagine a place tucked away somewhere in nature where you will appreciate the peace, your surrounding, and the people you stay with. Think of places where old-school charm meets nature and modern comfort.
Regardless of the place we travel to, we will stay at places with twin bed setup, have attached bathroom with hot shower, toilet with western pot, and room heater. The views around us - think of that as a bonus!
Regardless of the place we travel to, we will stay at places with twin bed setup, have attached bathroom with hot shower, toilet with western pot, and room heater. The views around us - think of that as a bonus!
Why are monument entrace fees not included?
These costs are not included to offer greater flexibility so you pay for only monuments/sites we visit. Some sites are free to visit.
Will the guide always be with us?
No. We are required to have a guide every day we spend in Bhutan but they are not with us all the time. They are with us in the car, when we visit a site, or go for a hike.
How do I reach Bagdogra?
There are direct flights to Bagdogra from cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. You can also take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) station from major stations. From New Jalpaiguri, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Bagdogra.
By what time should I reach Bagdogra on Day 1?
Please make sure you reach Bagdogra by 12p.m. on the meeting day. We have a around 5 hours drive after that. You can also consider staying the previous night at a hotel in Bagdogra to make it less stressful or if you don't flights/trains with morning arrival.
How much money should I carry?
Put aside around Rs. 15,000 for any entrance fees (around Rs. 3500), extra meals/snacks, drinks, and shopping. You can also withdraw cash at an ATM if you need.
Can I use UPI or credit cards in Bhutan?
Yes, but don't rely solely on them as not all merchants use them. For UPI, you need to activate UPI international payment in your app before you can make payments. For credit cards, there may be extra charges applicable. Cash payments are preferred.
Which documents I need to enter Bhutan? Can I travel to Bhutan with my Aadhaar card?
Indian nationals must have a passport with at least 6 months validity or Voter's Identity Card in original. Aadhaar card, e-Voter's Identity Card (even if printed) or any other document is not accepted.
What should I carry with me?
A list of recommended things to carry will be shared with registered members before the trip.
How do I pay?
You pay a deposit (booking amount) to reserve your spot. The remaining amount can be paid in parts, considering the time left before the trip commences. Payments can be made using UPI, credit or debit card, digital wallets or net banking.
Is it possible to pay using EMI?
It may be possible to pay using EMI. Please select the option while making the payment.
Note that EMI facility is not offered by us. It's offered by your bank/card provider and there might be additional charges to use the facility. These charges are not collected by us.
Note that EMI facility is not offered by us. It's offered by your bank/card provider and there might be additional charges to use the facility. These charges are not collected by us.
What is your refund policy?
The booking amount is non-refundable. Please read our refund policy here for more details - https://poetsandpilgrims.com/refund-policy/
The trip cost assumes minimum 5 members join the trip. Each extra member joining will reduce per person cost. The final cost will be adjusted when you pay renaming amount.
Book Now
Enquire
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