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Nepal
A path to self-discovery and personal growth. |
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Bhutan
A perfect place to unwind and enjoy the bounties of nature. |
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Tibet
A passage back into time – a look at the past |
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Sikkim
A vibrant realm of colors and breathtaking beauty |
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Darjeeling
The Queen of the hills |
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Ladakh
The last of the Shangri – La's |
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| Bhutan is a landlocked country located between Tibet in the north and India on its southern, western and eastern frontiers. Untouched and unspoiled Bhutan is a traveler’s paradise with soaring snowcapped peaks, alpine meadows and densely forested hills abounding in exotic flora and fauna. The history of the country is steeped in Buddhist tradition and mythology. The visit of Padama Sambhava in 747 AD is an important landmark in the history of the country. The kingdom's recent history begins with a hereditary monarchy that was founded in the 20th century and the monarchy continued the country's policy of isolation. Despite the speed of modernization, Bhutan has maintained a policy of careful, controlled policy of development in order to preserve its national identity. It is the only country in the world to have adopted Mahayana Buddhism in its Tantric form as its official religion. The Buddhist faith has played a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and social life of the Bhutanese. It is a great escape and a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the bounties of nature. |
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Thimpu
Situated on the banks of Wongchu River, the capital town is the political hub of this tiny kingdom. An enjoyable way experiencing Bhutanese life from close quarters is a walk thorough its streets. It is a joy to watch the hustle and bustle of the streets. With no modern high rises - the government has decreed that all the buildings in the town be built in the traditional Bhutanese style - the city is like an open museum which provides a window to the craftsmanship of the local artisans. Tashidzong, one of the most impressive landmarks and arguably the most impressive building in the country, houses the Bhutanese throne room and serves as the summer residence of the venerated monastic community. Other interesting sites include the Traditional Painting School where age-old Bhutanese art and craft is kept alive and passed on to the forthcoming generation. The Memorial Chorten, an important monument in Thimpu, built in memory of His Majesty, the third king of Bhutan is also worth visiting. A delightful day on the outskirts of Thimpu is a visit to the Tango and Cheri Monasteries. Simtokha Dzong, 6 km from the city limits, is the kingdom’s oldest dzong, which now houses the school for Buddhist studies.
Paro
The gateway to the dragon Kingdom, Paro is one of the most beautiful valleys in the kingdom. As you disembark from the plane you will be greeted by a whiff of Bhutanese air and the tranquility of the valley. Apart from being the highest agricultural yielding place in the kingdom it is also home to the national museum and one of the oldest and celebrated dzongs in Bhutan. Perched on a hill overlooking the Paro Valley, Rinpung Dzong is not just an architectural marvel but also a religious and secular center. Built in the 15th century it houses ancient Bhutanese artifacts and history. The Taktsang monastery, one of the most venerated religious sites in Bhutan, is a wonder in itself. The Guru Rinpoche, the founding father of the Bhutanese strain of Mahayana Buddhism, is said to have arrived here several millennium ago on the back of a legendary tigress and medicated for three months in a cave where a monastery was later built. Clinging to the sheer face of a cliff about three hours from Paro, this monastery also known as the tiger’s nest can be reached either by pony or on foot.
Punakha
The erstwhile capital of the country Punakha lies on a sprawling valley. The most visible landmark is the Punakha Dzong located on the confluence of the Pho Chuu and Mo Chuu. Built by the first Shabdrung of Bhutan in 1637, it still today the old custom of moving from Thimpu to Punakha and back is still followed by the Je Khenpo (Head of Bhutan’s religious order) and the monk body. The migration, an annual ceremonial ritual, is a culturally enriching experience.
Trongsa
Four-hour drive from Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa, the ancestral home of the royal family, is a sleepy village with a leisurely paced life. It is also a welcome rest to travelers. Like everywhere else the most dominating landmark is the dzong that dominates the valley, dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Situated high on a ridgeline the Trongsa Dzong, is one of the most beautiful sights, of which you will never tire. Built in 1648 the Dzong worked as a defensive fortress with a labyrinth of temples and offices.
Bumthang
The spiritual capital of Bhutan, Bumthang, is shrouded in religious legends. The heart of Bumthang is Jakar with its dzong. A number of smaller monasteries dot the hills surrounding the valley. Tales of Guru Pdmasambhava and Guru Rinpoche, whose bodily marks are impressed upon a rock in Kurjey, ring through the air. With religion holding sway in this region the air is replete with the chants of hymns, prayer flags fl uttering in the breeze, monks playing among themselves. Apart from the colorful festival it is also the traditional home of the great Buddhist teacher Pema Lingpa to whose descendants the present dynasty traces its ancestry. |
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What to Take
Clothing and Footwear
- Warm down jacket for the cold
- Warm clothes
- Spare clothing - several thinner layers are better than one thick layer
The weather in Nepal can vary significantly, and the best advice is to take clothing that will layer to cover all eventualities. It may easily be cold in the evenings and when walking at higher altitudes.
- Walking boots - well worn-in, with good ankle support and strong ridged soles with good tread, and spare boot laces
- Trekking boots
- Windproof/waterproof trousers and jacket with hood, good rain gear: It is quite likely to rain at some point whilst you are out.
- Sun protection: sunglasses with UV protection
- Loop-pile socks - one thick and one thin pair reduces the risk of blisters
- Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts - as protection from the sun.
- Sun hat - although it is unlikely to be too hot, the sun may be very strong
- Comfortable clothes - for evenings and comfortable shoes for sightseeing
- Lightweight survival bag
- A small rucksack - a bin liner will keep contents dry if it rains
- Balaclava/ warm Cap
- Scarf/ mask
- Windbreakers/ Jacket
- Down Sleeping bag
- Towel - if you intend to go swimming and for use on the trek (bath towels are of course supplied in hotels)
- Torch - essential as not everywhere has electricity and the mains supply can be erratic.
- Adapter - sockets may be large or small, 3 round pin or 2 round pin. Voltage is 220.
- Money belt; fold-up bag for souvenirs; camera and plenty of spare film; umbrella
Equipment/ Toiletries
- Flashlight
- Sunscreen/ Lip balm (high factor sun screen and lip protection)
- Water bottle: with at least 1 litre capacity.
- Moisturizing lotion
- A knife with a can opener
- Insect repellent
Medical Kit
We provide a first aid kit with medication for altitude sickness, nausea, dehydration, pain killers, and medication for dysentery, diarrhea, bandages, water purifier, antiseptic creams, throat lozenges, eye drops, antibiotics, nasal sprays, and pain relievers in tubes or spray but it is advisable to carry some medication on you without taking too much room in your baggage.
However we recommend the clients to carry the following items:
- Asprin or Panadol - for pain or fever
- Antihistamine - useful as a decongestant for colds, allergies, to ease the itch from insect bites and stings or to help prevent motion sickness
- Antibiotics-useful if you are traveling well off the beaten track but they must be prescribed
- Kaolin preparation (Pepto-Bismol), Imodium or Lomotil - for stomach upsets and to stop diarrhea and dehydration
- Rehydration mixture - for treatment of severe diarrhea and dehydration
- Antiseptic, Mercurochrome and Antibiotic powder or similar 'dry' spray-for cuts and grazes
- Calamine lotion-to ease irritation from bites and stings
- Bandages and band-aids- for minor injuries and wounds
- Scissors, Tweezers and a Thermometer
- Throat Lozenges
- Acetaminophen (paracetamol)
- Antacid tablets
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Access
Tourists can enter Bhutan by road through Phuentsholing, the economic center of the country, situated on the southern fringes of the country adjoining the Indian border. Paro serves as the only airport in Bhutan. Druk Air, the national carrier and the only airline operating in Bhutan, connects Bhutan to Calcutta, Bangkok, Kathmandu and Delhi. Leaving Bhutan from the eastern
border town of Samdrup Jongkhar is also possible.
Visa formalities
It is obligatory for all foreigners to acquire a visa to visit the country. Visa clearance from Thimphu must be obtained before departing for Bhutan. Prior visa clearance is also mandatory for boarding Druk Air flights. We require all passport details (as they appear in the passport) along with two photographs at least three weeks prior to your arrival for the visa processing formalities. In case of time constraints the details can be faxed directly to us and the photographs can be handed on arrival. Actual visa is issued upon arrival at the entry points, either Paro airport or Phuentsholing. Visa fee of US $ 20 should be paid directly. A visa is granted for a period of 15 days and can be extended at Thimpu.
Currency
The currency Bhutan is the Ngultrum (Rs). Bills are available in 10, 20, 50,100,500 and 1000 denominations. Travellers’ Cheques can be changed at banks in the cities but not necessarily elsewhere, although some hotels and travel agents are licensed to change money. US dollars in cash are not widely accepted so it is prudent to change your money into Ngultrums before embarking on a trip. Your guide will be able to advise on where to change money. You will need your passport when you change money. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and shops catering to tourists. There is often a 3% to 4 % surcharge if paying by credit card. Credit cards are also useful as an emergency source of cash as there are a lot of automated teller machines in the major cities and towns and the major cities from where money can withdrawn.
History
Bhutan still retains its magical charm: the pristine countryside, the laidback lifestyle and a history that is steeped in Buddhist tradition and mythology. It is replete with tales of warlords, feuds, giant fortresses and castles. The most defining moment in Bhutanese History is the visit of Padama Sambhava which has shaped up the culture and the religious life of the people. The kingdom's recent history begins with a hereditary monarchy that was founded in the 20th century. It was under the leadership of the third king of the present dynasty that Bhutan emerged from its medieval past of serfdom and reclusion. Despite the speed of modernization, Bhutan has maintained a policy of careful controlled policy of development and isolation in order to preserve its national identity.
Religion/Culture
Drukpa Kagyupa a branch of Mahayana Buddhism is the state religion. The religion has been institutionalized in the Dratshang (Central Monk body), headed by the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) who is chosen from among the most learned lamas and enjoys an equal rank with the King. Bhutan is the only country in the world to have adopted Mahayana Buddhism in its Tantric form as its official religion. Buddhist faith is an integral part of Bhutanese way of life and it plays an important role in the cultural, ethical and social development of Bhutan and its people.
People
Bhutanese are a mongolid race of people who originally migrated into and settled in the country in the 7th Century AD. A nomadic and pastoral society at first, they gradually turned to agriculture in the fertile valleys. There are three main ethnic groups - the Ngalongs in the western and central regions are the descendants of Tibetan immigrants who arrived in Bhutan from the 9th century. The Sharchops who live in the east of the country, are recognized as the original inhabitants of Bhutan. The third group is known as Lhotshampas. They represent the Nepali speaking ethnic group. The total population of Bhutan is about 600,000.
Festivals
There are many religious festivals. The best known festivals are the Tsechus which are held at different times of the year in different locations. Tsechus are celebrated with a lot of fervour for three to five days with both monks and laymen taking part in the ritual mask dances.
Flora and Fauna
Bhutan is a botanical paradise. One of the ancient names given to Bhutan was 'Southern Valleys of Medicinal Herbs'. To name a few floras in Bhutan- rhododendrons, junipers and magnolias several meters high, carnivorous plants, rare orchids, blue poppy (national flower), edelweiss, gentian, medicinal plants, giant rhubarb, high-altitude plants, tropical tress, pine and oak etc. Among the rare and exotic faunas found in Bhutan are - Golden Langur, Red Pandas, Black-necked Crane, Snow Leopard, Takin, Musk Deer, Himalayan Brown Bear, Himalayan Marten, Tiger, hornbills, pheasants, mountain goats and timid blue sheep.
Best Season
It is best to visit this region in spring and autumn. Spring generally begins in March and ends in May. Though there is a slight haze the forests covered with a riot of scarlet coloured rhododendrons, primulas, daisies, white magnolias and a host of other beautiful plants making a trek an exhilarating experience.
Mid September heralds the beginning of the autumn season. Mid September to mid November enjoys excellent climate coupled with deep blue sky and clear days making this period the best trekking period of the year. |
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