EAST WEST TOUR
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Overview
- Itinerary
- Includes & Excludes
Embark on the captivating 15-day East West Tour across Bhutan, a hidden gem nestled in the majestic Himalayas where breathtaking natural beauty meets profound cultural heritage. This all-encompassing journey explores the diverse regions of western, central, and eastern Bhutan, each offering its own distinct charm. Often hailed as Heaven on Earth, Bhutan enchants visitors with its lush mountains, rich biodiversity, and tranquil landscapes. The East West Tour highlights Eastern Bhutan as a pristine, lesser-known realm, filled with stunning scenery, idyllic countryside, and culturally significant sites steeped in history. Travelers venture into one of Bhutan’s most untouched areas, enjoying authentic experiences that touch the soul. This tour is more than a vacation; it’s an invitation to witness a land frozen in time, where tradition and modernity exist in harmonious balance.
Why choose the East West Tour? This thoughtfully curated itinerary provides an exceptional opportunity to delve deeply into Bhutan’s cultural richness, spiritual traditions, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the cultural vibrancy of Samdrup Jongkhar to the serene beauty and historic grandeur of Paro, each day unfolds new chapters of Bhutan’s story. Experience ancient silk weaving crafts, the spiritual aura of sacred monasteries, and the grandeur of iconic dzongs. The East West Tour offers more than geographic diversity; it’s a spiritual voyage connecting travelers to Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage, artisanal mastery, and core values of peace and harmony. This immersive encounter fosters personal growth, spiritual nurture, and a heartfelt appreciation of Bhutan’s dedication to preserving its unique legacy amid the modern age, making it a truly transformative journey into Bhutanese culture.
Best Time to Travel: The ideal times for the East West Tour are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when weather conditions are most favorable with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and little rain. Spring dazzles with blooming flowers and lush greenery while fall reveals spectacular autumn colors. These seasons also coincide with Bhutan’s vibrant festivals, including the Paro Tshechu in spring and the Thimphu Tshechu in fall, offering travelers an unforgettable glimpse into Bhutanese cultural celebrations and spiritual fervor.
Day 01: Bangkok – Samdrup Jongkhar
- Flight to Guwahati, India: The adventure begins with the anticipation of new experiences.
- Cultural Introduction in Old Guwahati: A peek into the region’s rich cultural heritage, setting the tone for the journey.
- Silk Weaving Village Visit: Immersion into the local lifestyle and economy through the traditional craft of silk weaving, particularly the unique gold ‘muga’ silk.
- Entry into Bhutan: Completing formalities and crossing into Bhutan at Samdrup Jongkhar introduces travelers to this mystical country.
Day 02: Samdrup Jongkhar – Trashigang
- Scenic Drive to Trashigang: A journey through diverse landscapes, transitioning from plains to mountains, offering stunning views and insights into Bhutan’s natural beauty.
- Cultural Insights at Handloom Center: Engagement with traditional weaving and natural dyeing techniques, showcasing Bhutan’s commitment to cultural preservation and women’s empowerment.
- Exploration of Trashigang: Arrival in Bhutan’s largest eastern city opens up opportunities to delve into the cultural and commercial heart of Eastern Bhutan.
Day 03: Trashigang Sightseeing
- Trek to Saling Village: A leisurely trek offers a blend of exercise, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, providing insights into the lives of the Dakpas.
- Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary: A venture close to this sanctuary highlights Bhutan’s rich biodiversity, with chances to spot rare birds and perhaps ponder the myth of the yeti.
- Visit to Radhi Village: Experiencing raw silk weaving adds to the understanding of Bhutan’s artisanal heritage and the significance of weaving in the local society.
Day 04: Trashigang – Lhuntse
- Journey Through Bhutan’s Landscape: The drive offers breathtaking views over mountain valleys and high passes, enriching the travel experience with nature’s majesty.
- Cultural Practices in Villages: Stops in villages to observe the traditional practice of rearing lac, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between local culture and the environment.
- Lhuntse’s Textile Fame: The region’s renown for exquisite textiles underlines the artistry and cultural importance of Bhutanese weaving traditions.
Day 05: Lhuntse – Mongar
- Hike to Khoma Village: A morning hike not only connects travelers with Bhutan’s picturesque landscapes but also with its celebrated weaving traditions.
- Weaving Insights in Khoma: Interaction with local weavers and observation of the intricate Kushutara and Ngoshom textiles, offering a deeper appreciation for Bhutanese craft and culture.
Day 06: Mongar – Bumthang
- Scenic Himalayan Route: The drive crosses the Thrumsingla Pass, offering breathtaking views and entry into Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
- Exploration of Bumthang’s Valleys: Visiting Ura and Choekhor valleys introduces the region’s medieval charm and scenic landscapes, setting a serene backdrop for cultural immersion.
Day 07: Bumthang Sightseeing
- Ancient Sacred Sites: Visits to Jambey Lhakang and Kurje Lhakang deepen the understanding of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and royal history.
- Cultural and Culinary Insights: Engagements with local life at a traditional house, the Jakar market, and tastings of local delicacies provide a rich sensory and cultural experience.
- Architectural Marvels: The magnificent Jakar Dzong and Chamkar bazaar offer insights into Bhutanese architecture and daily life.
Day 08: Bumthang – Trongsa
- Yatha Weaving Insight: A stop at the Yatha weaving center in Zukney highlights the importance of traditional crafts in Bhutanese culture.
- Trongsa’s Historical Depth: Exploring Trongsa, including its pivotal dzong, reveals layers of Bhutanese history and the architectural ingenuity of its people.
Day 09: Trongsa – Punakha
- Scenic Drive with Cultural Stops: The journey features picturesque landscapes and village visits, offering glimpses into the Bhutanese way of life.
- Spiritual Exploration at Chimi Lhakhang: A visit to this unique monastery showcases Bhutan’s blend of spirituality and unconventional wisdom, including the intriguing practices associated with Drukpa Kinley.
Day 10: Punakha Sightseeing
- Architectural and Spiritual Highlights: The hike to Khamsum Yuley Namgay Chorten and visit to Punakha Dzong encapsulate Bhutan’s spiritual essence and architectural grandeur.
- Connection with Nature and Agriculture: The journey through Punakha’s valleys underscores the symbiotic relationship between Bhutan’s natural environment, agriculture, and daily life.
Day 11: Punakha – Thimphu
- Dochula Pass: Offers mesmerizing 360-degree views of the Himalayas, enhanced by the spiritual significance of its 108 memorial chortens.
- Cultural Immersion in Thimphu: The capital city melds tradition with modernity, showcasing Bhutanese life through its weekend market, traditional archery competitions, and unique urban charm.
Day 12: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Tango Monastery Visit: A spiritual retreat offering insights into Bhutanese monastic life and Buddhist studies, set against serene valley views.
- Arts and Craft School: Observing students preserves traditional Bhutanese art forms, providing a window into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- National Memorial Chorten: A significant spiritual site that epitomizes Bhutanese communal and religious life.
Day 13: Thimphu – Paro
- Educational Insight: A visit to a local school highlights the importance of communal values and education in Bhutanese society.
- Cultural Landmarks in Paro: The National Museum and Paro Dzong stand as testaments to Bhutan’s historical depth and architectural prowess, with the valley’s natural and agricultural beauty setting a stunning backdrop.
Day 14: Tiger’s Nest Hike
- Spiritual Journey: The hike to Taktsang Monastery is a blend of natural beauty and spiritual quest, symbolizing the essence of Bhutanese Buddhism and architectural ingenuity.
- Cultural Exploration: Post-hike visits to Drugyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang deepen the understanding of Bhutan’s spiritual and historical landscape.
Day 15: Paro – Airport
- Reflective Departure: The journey concludes with a moment of reflection amidst the serene beauty of Paro, marking the end of an enriching expedition through Bhutan’s heart.
Your Everyday Benefit
- Rate inclusive of all three meals both local and continental healthy cuisine.
- Rate inclusive of all accommodation [three-star hotels with double/twin sharing basis]
- Rate inclusive of air-conditioned tourist standard transportation.
- Rate inclusive of local tour English-speaking licensed guide on all your sightseeing tours.
- Rate inclusive of extensive choices of flexible comprehensive tour itineraries.
- Rate inclusive of Bhutan Government Royalty fees of $ 100 per person per nights.
- Rate inclusive of all entry fees, museum fees and historical attraction fees.
- Rate inclusive of all applicable taxes – BST 10%, Service Charge 10%
- Rate inclusive of one-time visa fee of USD 40.
- Rate inclusive of airport arrival and departure transfer in Bhutan.
Complementary Service
- Arrival refreshment
- One bottle mineral water each a day
- A small farewell gift on the day of departure
- One-time cultural program for group exceedingly above 7 members
Package Does Not Include
- Rate does not include incoming & outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes.
- Rate does not include drinks and alcohols and non- alcoholic beverage.
- Rate does not include guides speaking language other than English.
- Rate does not include expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, potter, telephone/fax calls, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, any insurance etc
- Rate does not include extra expenses or loss due to nature and un-foreseen events beyond the control of our management.
- Rate does not include any service outside Bhutan.
- Rate does not include onetime bank transfer charge of USD 45.
- Rate does not include tipping to guide, driver etc.
$3960/-
Valid for
GROUP ABOVE 03 MEMBERS