Bhutan Aman Journey

Itinerary

• Thailand

  The Kingdom of Thailand is at the center of Southeast Asia. Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world, the national religion is Theravada Buddhism which is practiced by more than 95% of all Thais. The region has been settled since 10,000 BC, and has been ruled by various kingdoms over the centuries, including the Tai, Mon, Khmer, Malay and Burmese. the first Thai or Siamese state is traditionally considered to be the Buddhist kingdom of Sukhothai, which was founded in 1238. current era of Thai history began in 1782 under King Rama I the Great. Due to its strong monarchy, Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that has never been colonized or taken over by a European power. The capital and largest city of Thailand is Bangkok. It is also the country's centre of political, commercial, industrial, cultural and tourism activities. Visitors also go north to the hill tribes around Chiang Mai, and south to the beaches near Phuket and Koh Samui.

• Bangkok

  Bangkok is a frequently chaotic jumble of traffic, temples, savory food and entertainment. Over the last few years, the opening of a slick new elevated tramway that enables visitors to glide over the chaotic scenes below, coupled with the cheap and frequent river boats and the reasonably priced air-conditioned taxis, have made tourism in the city newly appealing. Within the city limits is a wealth of over 300 Buddhist temple and shrines. Most famous are Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) and Wat Trimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha). One of the largest temple complexes in the country is Wat Pho. Altogether, there are over 30 individual temples scattered here, of which the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is the largest. The Buddha's statue is enormous, an amazing 47.5m (156ft) long and 15m (49ft) high. Wat Phra Kaeo is a temple complex that houses the Emerald Buddha.

• Bhutan

  Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked nation in South Asia. It is located amid the eastern end of the Himalaya Mountains and is bordered to the south, east and west by India and to the north by Tibet. Bhutan used to be one of the most isolated nations in the world, but developments including direct international flights, internet, mobile phone networks, and cable television have increasingly opened the doors. Yet, the government takes great measures to preserve the nation's traditional culture, identity and the environment. The landscape ranges from subtropical plains in the south to the Himalayan heights in the north, with some peaks exceeding 7,000 metres (23,000 ft). The population is predominantly Buddhist, with Hinduism being the second-largest religion. The capital and largest city is Thimphu. After centuries of direct monarchic rule, Bhutan held its first democratic elections in March 2008.

• Bumthang

  Bumthang or Jakar is a small town in the central-eastern region of Bhutan. It is the capital of Bumthang District and the location of the regional dzong - Jakar Dzong which is located on a ridge above the town. The town is the site of Chakhar Lhakhang, a small and unassuming temple which marks the site of the "iron palace" of Sindhu Raja, the Indian monarch who is believed to have first invited Guru Rinpoche to Bhutan. The current building is said to have been constructed by Terton Dorje Lingpa in the 14th century. There are many significant Buddhist sacred sites nearby the town, such as Kurjey Lhakhang, which holds a body print of Guru Rinpoche; Jambey Lhakhang, one of the 108 monasteries that in mythology were miraculously constructed by King Songten Gampo in one night; and Tamsshing Lhakhag established by Terton Padma Lingpa. In addition, one of the country's largest monastic colleges, Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, overlooks Jakar.

• Gangtey

  Gangtey is a small village in the Wangdue Phodrang district of Bhtuan. This area is bordered by Dagana and Tsirang dzongkhags to the south, Tongsa dzongkhag to the east, Thimphu and Punakha dzongkhag to the west, and Gasa dzongkhag and a small section of border with Tibet to the north. Gangteng Gonpa is the main monastery of the district. This monastery is one of the main seats of the religious tradition based on Pema Lingpa's revalations and one of the main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in Bhutan.

• Paro

  Paro, with Bhutan’s only airport, is the gateway to the kingdom for most visitors. Along the main street is a complex of traditional architecture: two lines of richly decorated buildings housing small shops, institutions and restaurants. Paro Dzong is a fortress-monastery overlooking a beautiful valley. Ten kilometres from Paro by road you will see in the distance the famous Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Hermitage on the face of a sheer 1000m cliff.

• Punakha

  Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. It is about 72 km away from Thimphu and it takes about 3 hours by car from the capital Thimphu. Unlike Thimphu it is quite warm in winter and hot in summer. It is located at an elevation of 1,200 metres above sea level and rice is grown as the main crop along the river valleys of two main rivers of Bhutan, the Pho Chu and Mo Chu. Dzongkha is widely spoken in this district.

• Thimphu

  Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan, and sprawls across the western slopes of the Wang Chhu river valley. Norzin Lam, the recently upgraded main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, restaurants, retail arcades and public buildings. Dechenphu, Tango and Cheri monasteries, and Dechenchoeling Palace, the official residence of the King, are located to the north of the city.

• • Bangkok
  • The Peninsula Pool

  Day 1: Bangkok

  A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel.

  Accommodation: The Peninsula (5*)

  The Peninsula, located on the west bank of Chao Phraya, is considered one of Bangkok’s finest hotels. Its 370 rooms and 65 suites appeal to business travelers and well-heeled tourists alike. Soak up the sun by the glorious pool, or indulge in a culinary trip around the world. The Peninsula not only offers every conceivable facility required for business or pleasure, but a wide variety of dining opportunities. If it’s shopping you crave most, take the free shuttle boat services to the Skytrain and head for the Siam Centre for bargain deals.

• • Thimphu
  • Amankora Thimphu

  Day 2: Bangkok - Paro - Thimphu

  A private vehicle with English speaking guide & driver will transfer you between the airport and your hotel.

  Fly from Bangkok to Paro today with Druk Air.

  Your arrival in Bhutan is an unparalleled experience as the flight circles over the dramatic valley below. The transfer to Thimphu is approximately two hours. Upon arrival and following lunch, you will have the choice to visit the National Memorial Chorten, National Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, and National Library with time to stroll the main street for some interesting Himalayan artefacts or textiles.

  Accommodation: Amankora Thimphu

  Set in the upper reaches of the Motithang area, Amankora Thimphu is a 16-suite lodge close to the capital’s sights and shopping while remaining a quiet retreat. The dzong inspired architecture incorporates high stone, white-washed buildings. Visits to Thimphu’s folk-heritage and textile museums and festive ceremonies offer engaging insights into Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

• Day 3: Thimphu

  This morning you will visit the north end of the valley to view Trashi Chhoe Dzong, the seat of Bhutan’s government and Royal offices, and Pangri Zampa, two 16th century buildings that now house a onastic training school for astrologers. At the head of the valley, should you wish to stretch your legs, a short hike will take you to Cheri Goemba, the monastery where the first monastic body was established in the Kingdom. Back in town, you will be able to visit a few of the capital’s cottage industries ranging from traditional paper making to hand-rolled incense.

  Accommodation: Amankora Thimphu
• • Gangteng Gonpa
  • Amankora Gangtey

  Day 4: Thimphu - Gangtey

  Today see an early departure for a dramatic drive over the high mountain pass of Dochu La and on to the Phobjika Valley. Sights on the way include one of Bhutan's first fortress monasteries, the 17th century Simtokha Dzong, and ancient wall paintings at the Hongtsho Goemba monastery. The journey continues over the 3,050m mountain pass where on a clear day, towering Himalayan peaks are easily visible. The descent through the Punakha Valley along the Kingdom's only east-west highway continues through the scenic village of Wangdi. The highway follows the scenic Dang Chhu before climbing through forests of bamboo and oak, and just before crossing the Pele La pass, a small side road splinters off to the hidden Phobjika Valley. On arrival you will have time to visit the striking Gangtey Goemba, sitting at the head of the valley, and perhaps stroll through the quaint Gangtey village.

  Accommodation: Amankora Gangtey

  In the little-visited Phobjikha Valley near the village of Gangtey, the eight-suite Amankora Gangtey is set on a forested knoll with scenic views of the valley floor and the 16th century Gangtey Goemba (monastery). Part of one of Bhutan’s most important wildlife reserves, the valley is home each winter to a flock of 300 rare and endangered black-neck cranes.

• Day 5: Gangtey

  The morning will begin with a visit to the Black Neck Crane Center and depending on the season, a viewing of breeding cranes. Various walks or mountain bike rides through this magnificent valley can then be arranged. Soak up the beauty of the valley from the Lodge or return to the revered Goemba for a possible audience with the Trulkul, should he be in residence, for a relaxing cap to the day.

  Accommodation: Amankora Gangtey
• • Jakar Dzong
  • Amankora Bumthang

  Day 6: Gangtey - Bumthang

  Today's memorable journey to Jakar (Bumthang) is filled with dramatic landscapes of terraced farmland, deep river valleys and precariously perched farmhouses viewed from the only east-west highway that has been ingeniously carved out of the mountain face. Following a brief stop at Chendebji Chorten, which is believed to cover the remains of a demon spirit, you will carry on to what was the original home of the royal family. Upon reaching Trongsa you may stroll the quaint village and perhaps visit the Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home to Bhutan's monarch where novice monks recite mantras or practice on sacred horns, flutes or drums. The drive to Bumthang takes you over the picturesque Yotong La and down into the Chhume Valley, home of Bhutan's famous Yatra weaving. Here you will have a chance to browse the traditional textiles and see the weavers create their intricate handiwork.

  Accommodation: Amankora Bumthang

  Consisting of four valleys — Chhume, Choekhor, Tang and Ura — Bumthang is home to no less than 29 temples and monasteries, a museum and a treasure-trove of Bhutan’s art and painting traditions. The 16-suite Amankora Bumthang rests adjacent to the Wandichholing Palace, within the town of Jakar in the Choekhor Valley.

• • Photo alt Text

  Day 7: Bumthang

  This morning you will explore our neighboring palace, Wangdichhoeling, home to the 2nd King, and the auspicious prayer wheels next door. Heading up valley, you will take in the grand Kurjey Lhakhang, considered one of Bhutan’s most auspicious monuments, which was once the resting place of Guru Rimpoche, and Jambay Lhakhang, home to the early winter festivals that draw thousands of Bhutanese for their annual blessings. Heading back into town and across the Bumthang Chhu, enjoy a visit to the sin alleviating Tamshing Monastery followed by quick visits to the valleys unique cottage industries: Red Panda Brewery, Bumthang Cheese/Dairy Facility and the Bumthang Distillery, home to numerous distinctive spirits.

  Accommodation: Amankora Bumthang
• • Tang Valley

  Day 8: Bumthang

  Explore further in Bumthang with an excursion to the beautiful Tang Valley. This seldom-visited valley offers several off-thebeaten path lhakhangs and monasteries, along with the museum at Ogen Chhoeling Palace. A short hike leads to a well-maintained Palace which houses various valuable artifacts. Stop for a traditional picnic with breathtaking views of the pristine surroundings along the way.

  Accommodation: Amankora Bumthang
• • 
  • Amankora Punakha Farmhouse

  Day 9: Bumthang - Punakha

  Begin the day with an early departure for the Punakha Lodge. Upon entering the Punakha Valley, stop to stretch your legs for a short walk through the valley floor to the Chimi Lhakhang, an auspicious fertility monastery built by the Divine Madman in 1499.

  Accommodation: Amankora Punakha

  Amankora Punakha is set in sparkling verdancy east of the Dochu La Pass and just north of the resplendent Punakha Dzong. Reached by crossing a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu (river), the Amankora Punakha lodge includes a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse built by a former Je Kempo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). The farmhouse houses the Dining Room and intimate relaxation areas. The courtyard offers outdoor dining during Punakha’s temperate months.

• • Photo alt Text

  Day 10: Punakha

  Your day in Punakha Valley begins with a hike up thru fields of chillies, cabbages and rice along the banks of the Mo Chhu to the upper end of the valley to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a stunning monument recently built by the Queens and consecrated in 1999. Returning through the valley, you will have plenty of time to take in the impressive Punakha Dzong, home to the remains of Bhutan’s first ruler, Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal, and the winter residence of the monastic order’s leader and his entourage of monks. A picnic lunch will be served on the banks of the Punak Chhu at a vantage point of the stunning Dzong and confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu. Following lunch, a quick drive will take you to the village of Talo where you will walk the stunning, quiet grounds of the village temple and perhaps visit the home village of the Kingdom’s four Queens. Further hikes or valley excursions can be organized.

  Accommodation: Amankora Punakha
• • Paro
  • Amankora Paro Entrance

  Day 11: Punakha - Paro

  After descending from Dochu La, you will follow your way back up the dramatic Wang Chu and Paro Chu river valleys before crossing through Paro Town towards the north end of the valley. Here, set in a pine forest, you will find the Amankora lodge and spa. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity for a quick stroll to the nearby ruins, a visit to some of the valley’s oldest and holiest religious monuments or a ramble down Paro’s main street. Evenings at Amankora may include informative lectures on the history, religion, flora and fauna of the region or an intriguing film on the Himalayas.

  Accommodation: Amankora Paro

  The lodge in Paro is nestled among glistening conifers in a 24-suite pine forest retreat. Amankora Thimphu, raised up in a blue-pine forest of the Motithang area, sits close to the capital’s intriguing sights and traditional shops.

• • Photo alt Text

  Day 12: Paro

  After breakfast hike to Taktsang Monastery. The trail is broad and the walk of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill takes you almost a kilometre above the Paro valley floor (for those who cannot hike we will arrange a horse for transfer up to cafeteria). The view of Taktsang Monastery built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor is a spectacular sight. The Monastery is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. The great Guru Rimpoche is said to have flown here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. He then mediated in a cave there for three months where the monastery was later built. The cave is said to be the origin of Buddhism in Bhutan. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for refreshments before returning to Paro for lunch. In the afternoon drive to the ruins of the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, an historic monument built by the Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. In fine weather the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop. On the return drive to Paro, visit 7th Century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples constructed by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Kyichu is built in a manner similar to the Jokhang in Lhasa. Inside there is a great golden image of Buddha Shakyamuni. Alternatively, day 7 could be spent on a day trip to the Haa Valley, one of the most picturesque districts in Bhutan. Reached via the beautiful Chelila Pass, Haa Valley is characterised by its surrounding rugged and mountainous terrain. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

  Accommodation: Amankora Paro

• Day 13: Paro

  Upon arrival in Paro, you will be required to present two passport photos to the immigration official for your Bhutan visa (included), which will be stamped into your passport. Once you pass through customs your guide and driver will be waiting for you.

  Accommodation: Depart

Accommodation

• Cultural Moments

  Throughout Asia, rice paddies are somewhat of a constant landscape element. Rice is grown in paddies, or shallow puddles carefully controlled to ensure the appropriate water depth (typically 15 cm).  The farmers take advantage of the rice plant's tolerance to water: the water in the paddies prevents weeds from outgrowing the crop. Once the rice has established dominance of the field, the water can be drained in preparation for harvest.

• Culinary Moments

  There are a vast array of fruits native to Asia that we are sure to see along the way - keep your eyes peeled for jackfruit, lychee, rambutan, mangosteen, durian, and starfruit  - all fruits somewhat unknown to the North American

• • The Peninsula

  The Peninsula (5*)

  The Peninsula, located on the west bank of Chao Phraya, is considered one of Bangkok’s finest hotels. Its 370 rooms and 65 suites appeal to business travelers and well-heeled tourists alike. Soak up the sun by the glorious pool, or indulge in a culinary trip around the world. The Peninsula not only offers every conceivable facility required for business or pleasure, but a wide variety of dining opportunities. If it’s shopping you crave most, take the free shuttle boat services to the Skytrain and head for the Siam Centre for bargain deals.

  • More information
• • Amankora Thimphu

  Amankora Thimphu

  Set in the upper reaches of the Motithang area, Amankora Thimphu is a 16-suite lodge close to the capital’s sights and shopping while remaining a quiet retreat. The dzong inspired architecture incorporates high stone, white-washed buildings. Visits to Thimphu’s folk-heritage and textile museums and festive ceremonies offer engaging insights into Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

  • More information
• • Amankora Gangtey

  Amankora Gangtey

  In the little-visited Phobjikha Valley near the village of Gangtey, the eight-suite Amankora Gangtey is set on a forested knoll with scenic views of the valley floor and the 16th century Gangtey Goemba (monastery). Part of one of Bhutan’s most important wildlife reserves, the valley is home each winter to a flock of 300 rare and endangered black-neck cranes.

  • More information
• • Amankora Bumthang

  Amankora Bumthang

  Consisting of four valleys — Chhume, Choekhor, Tang and Ura — Bumthang is home to no less than 29 temples and monasteries, a museum and a treasure-trove of Bhutan’s art and painting traditions. The 16-suite Amankora Bumthang rests adjacent to the Wandichholing Palace, within the town of Jakar in the Choekhor Valley.

  • More information
• • Amankora Punakha Farmhouse

  Amankora Punakha

  Amankora Punakha is set in sparkling verdancy east of the Dochu La Pass and just north of the resplendent Punakha Dzong. Reached by crossing a suspension bridge over the Mo Chhu (river), the Amankora Punakha lodge includes a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse built by a former Je Kempo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan). The farmhouse houses the Dining Room and intimate relaxation areas. The courtyard offers outdoor dining during Punakha’s temperate months.

  • More information
• • Amankora Paro Entrance

  Amankora Paro

  The lodge in Paro is nestled among glistening conifers in a 24-suite pine forest retreat. Amankora Thimphu, raised up in a blue-pine forest of the Motithang area, sits close to the capital’s intriguing sights and traditional shops.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Tours, Transfers, Flights, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras - Visas - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
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  • We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
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  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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