BHUTAN CULTURAL TOUR

BHUTAN is a country nestled in the eastern Himalayas. The country has been visited by a great many saints, mystics, scholars and pilgrims over the centuries who not only came for their personal elucidation, but blessed the land and its people with an invaluable spiritual and cultural legacy that has shaped every face of Bhutanese lives. Visitors and guests to the country will be surprised that the culture and the traditional lifestyle is still richly intact and at the degree to which it intact all strands of modern day secular life. From the traditional woven garments to the prayer flags on high mountain slopes, from the built environment to the natural environment, from the religious mask dances to the folk dances, this cultural heritage is proudly evident and offers a unique cultural setting.

Outline Itinerary ( 8 Days ) Expand all +

1 Day 1 : Arrive Paro – Thimphu (Wel Come to Bhutan)

2 Day 2 : Thimphu

3 Day 3 : Thimphu – Punakha

4 Day 4 : Punakha - Trongsa

5 Day 5 : Trongsa - Gangtey

6 Day 6 : Gangtay to Paro.

7 Day 7 : Paro Sightseeing and Hiking to Tiger nest

8 Day 8 : Paro Departure

Personal Information

Full name

Email

Phone

Departure Date

Additional information

Order notes (optional)

Your privacy is of the utmost importance to us. The personal information you provide will be kept confidential and will not be shared with a third party.

Include / Exclude

Accommodation in three star category hotel in twin sharing basis with breakfast
A licensed Bhutanese tour guide for the extent of your stay
SUV car with Driver
All Three Meals with evening tea
Museum Fees
Road Permit / Special Permits/ Taxes
Air ticket (flight fare) both International and Domestic
Bhutan visa fee ($40)
Personal expenses and laundry.
Single Room Supplement Charge (USD 30 per night)
SDF (Sustainable Development Fee) US$ 800
Any other extra services not noted above

Essential Info Expand all +

Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?

A visa is needed to enter Bhutan but it is not issued abroad. Visas will be stamped in your passport upon arrival in Paro, cost $40 US and are not included in your tour payment. We will obtain your visa for you. What time of year is best for traveling to Bhutan? It is recommended that you consult a weather service immediately before you leave for your trip for precise information.

For processing visa we need to have clear passport photocopy (photo should be very clear) of the clients 15-20 days prior to the travel date. All tourists (excluding Indian, Bangladeshi and Maldivian passport holders) who wish to travel to Bhutan require a visa and must book their holiday through a Bhutan tour Operator Company or one of their international partners. The tour operator will take care of Visa arrangements for visitors.

Indian, Bangladeshis and Maldivian nationals can obtain a visa at the port of entry on producing a valid passport with a minimum of 6 month validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voters Identity Card (VIC)). All other tourists must obtain a visa clearance prior to travel to Bhutan.

Visas are processed through an online system by your Bhutanese tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. You are required to send the photo-page of your passport to your tour operator who will then apply for your visa. The visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) once the full payment of your holiday (including a USD $40 visa fee) has been wire transferred and received in the TCB bank account. Once received the visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours. At your point of entry you will be required to show your visa clearance letter, the visa will then be stamped into your passport.

Payment: Since the Department of Tourism issues visa only upon receipt of full payment in advance, tour payment has to be transferred to our account at least 3 weeks before the travel date. Airfare needs to be sent at the time of issuing tickets. Flight booking: We need complete names (as in the Passport) of the clients to book seats. Without names it is not possible to book seats. Ticketing Time Limit (TTL) is given & we need to issue the ticket within TTL expires.

Cancellation policy on Tour: Once visa is processed & tour programmes booked and subsequently cancelled shall be subject to the following charges:

A) WITHIN 30 DAYS OF START OF PROGRAM - NO CHARGE ( EXCEPT FLIGHT TICKET CANCELLATION)

B) WITHIN 21 DAYS - 10% OF THE RATE

C) WITHIN 14 DAYS - 15% OF THE RATE

D) WITHIN 7 DAYS - 30% OF THE RATE

E) LESS THAN 7 DAYS OR CANCELLATION - 50% OF THE RATE

F) LESS THAN 2 DAYS OR CANCELLATION WITHOUT NOTICE - 100% OF THE RATE

Cancellation policy on Airfare:

a) Before 30days: no cancellation charge but have to pay US$ 25 per person as documentation charge.

b) 11-30days: 50% cancellation on airfare + US$ 25 per person as documentation charge.

c) 10-04 days: 75% cancellation + US$ 25 per person as documentation charge.

d) Below 03days: 100% cancellation

Note: The above given rates are based on the present Govt. rates. If there is any change in the Govt. rates, we have to revise our costs accordingly.

Best season to travel in Bhutan?

In general, the best and most popular times of the year to visit Bhutan are March to May and September to November. The weather is mild during these months and many of the large festivals take place during these seasons. Spring can be cloudier and have more rain than autumn, but the wildlife and flowers are at their most vivid. If your tour dates overlap with a major festival, we recommend you book at least 3-6 months in advance as it can be difficult to confirm flights and hotels. Even though the summer monsoon season and winter are not highly recommended for travel to Bhutan, it doesn’t mean you can’t book a tour for this time. The winter months of December to February are recommended for those who want to get the most out of their trekking as the skies are at their clearest and offer the best views of the mountains with very few other tourists present. However, winter can be very cold and it can be difficult to access some areas due to snowfall

Accommodation during tour in Bhutan

We have carefully selected government-approved accommodations with the best location, service, ambience and cuisine. Our standard range of hotels is clean, comfortable, simply furnished and generally rated tourist class or about 3-star. Most of these hotels and lodges are built in Bhutan’s traditional architectural style. Some hotels offer Internet access and all have hot water and private baths. See individual program descriptions for details. For a person applying alone, we will do its best to find a roommate, if you request one. However, if no roommate can be found, the participant will be subject to any supplemental room charges applicable. For those travelers who prefer to experience Bhutan in luxury we offer a boutique range of luxurious lodges and resorts such as Uma Paro, Zhiwa Ling Resort, Taj Tashi and the Aman Kora. Some of these include spa and yoga facilities. We can mix and match your accommodation to suit your itinerary and complement your style of travel.

What will the food be like?

Tourist hotels generally present meals in a buffet selection, and provide a choice of Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Continental food. Most meals are served with rice, either white or the wholesome local red variety and dal. Although traditional Bhutanese food is heavily seasoned with red chilies and can be quite hot, dishes at hotels are tempered to tourist’s tastes.

Will I be able to do laundry?

It is usually possible to have clothes washed and ironed in one day. Dry cleaning is possible with every lodge and hotel that has been approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.

Do I need a plug converter?

Officially 220 volts is supplied by the Department of Power. But the power supply can fluctuate. Some hotels and lodges don’t have American plug points or converters, so it is recommended that you bring a converter with you.

What is the time difference?

Bhutan is 6 hours ahead of G.M.T. and half an hour ahead of India

Currency in Bhutan

The national currency is the Ngultrum (Nu). 100 Chetrum = 1 Nu. Exchange rate is approximately $1US = 45 Nu (subject to change). You may view current exchange rates Indian Rupees circulate at par. If you plan to make a large purchase of items such as textiles or artwork, most outlets dealing in these goods accept US dollars as well as credit cards (other than limited Handicraft stores and large Thimphu hotels, credit card acceptance is very limited). Alternatively, you can change currency (preferably US dollars, UK Pounds and the Euro) or cash traveler’s cheques at most hotels, the currency exchange counter at Paro International Airport and the Thimphu branch of the Bhutan National Bank. As your trip to Bhutan is fully prepaid, you should not need much money other than to pay for drinks, laundry, souvenirs and tips.

Communication access in Bhutan.

Telephone and fax services are available in all towns in Bhutan. International connections are excellent. You can also buy a mobile phone kit (SIM card and phone number) from numerous outlets. Internet and e-mail facilities are widely available in most towns and in some case your hotel. You can also send postal mail reliably from hotels and post offices.

Risk & Liabilities

We are committed to providing the best services which will give you a once in a life time journey. We perform our duties honestly & seriously to make your journey very smooth & pleasant. However, the entire programs in Nepal and Bhutan are conducted strictly under the rules and regulation of their own policies. Therefore Himalayan Social Journey shall not be responsible for any changes in the itinerary due to unavoidable circumstance such as govt. restriction, Land slide, road blockage, flood, snow political unrest, cancellation of flight, delay, sickness or accident, Any extra cost incurring there of shall be borne by the clients on the spot.

Important Information Expand all +

How to get a visa for Nepal ?

There are three ways to get a visa for Nepal

Visa on arrival: You can get a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other designated entry points. The visa fee is USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, or USD 125 for 90 days.
Online application: You can apply for a visa online through the Nepal Immigration website. https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np .The visa fee is the same as for visa on arrival.
Nepalese Embassy or Consulate: You can also apply for a visa at a Nepalese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The visa fee may be different, so check with the embassy or consulate.

Visa requirements

Passport valid for at least six months from your planned entry date into Nepal.
Visa application form.
Passport-sized photo (Bring 4 )

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:

Children below 10 years except US citizens
Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen - Bangladesh , Bhutan, India , Maldives , Pakistan , Sri-Lanka (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year. Afghan citizen are eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.
Non Residential Nepalese(NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
Chinese Nationals for 150 days

Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government.

NigeriaGhana
Zimbabwe
Swaziland
Cameroon
Somalia
Liberia
Ethiopia
Iraq
Palestine
Afghanistan
Syria
Refugees with travel document

If your passport is not valid for at least six months, you will need to renew your passport before you travel to Nepal. You can renew your passport at your local passport office. The process of renewing your passport can take several weeks, so it is important to start the process early.

How to enter Nepal ?

By air:

Nepal has Three international airports: Kathmandu, Bhairawa, and Pokhara. Currently, Pokhara airport does not handle international flights. However, there are a few flights to Bhairawa from few countries. The main international airport in Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), located in Kathmandu. You can search TIA airport to book your International flight.

By land: There are multiple land entry points along the borders of Nepal, India, and China. These entry points include Kakarvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalganj, Dhangadhi, Mahendranagar, and Kerung(china boarder)

Is there a pick-up service available for me upon my airport arrival?

If you've booked a multiday tour or trekking package with Himalayan Social Journey, we'll pick you up from the airport. Upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be there to greet you with a sign displaying your name and our company's name. We'll then take you to your pre-booked hotel.

To make the pick-up process smooth, kindly share your flight details, including flight number and arrival time. If there are any changes to your arrival plans, please inform us as soon as possible so we can arrange your pick-up accordingly. Travel with us for a hassle-free experience!

What is Airport condition in Nepal ?

Please keep this thing in your mind that there are some airport touts and scam artists who take advantage of tourists. They might offer to carry your luggage and they want a large amount of money. Sometimes they intimidate our drivers and even take away their signs. Anyway...if you want someone to help you with your luggage you can give them NOT MORE THAN 1 - 2 DOLLARS. This is a small hassle that tourists sometimes face upon arrival at the airport. Do not stress about this but just be aware not to give more than a few dollars for their luggage handling if you choose to take someone's services. Nepalese in general are very kind and hospitable people.

What currencies are accepted in Nepal?

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). Major foreign currencies such as USD, AUD, and EURO are accepted for VISA.

There are plenty of ATMs in these major cities, so you can easily withdraw cash from your foreign currency bank account. Credit cards are also accepted in some shops and restaurants, but they are not as widely accepted as cash.

On the trek, you will only need to use Nepali rupees. You can exchange your foreign currency for Nepali rupees at your hotel, money exchanges, or the airport. Himalayan Social Journey representatives will also be happy to help you exchange money.

Is there an Orientation Program?

If you have booked a trekking or multi-day tour with Himalayan Social Journey, the orientation meeting usually happens at your Kathmandu hotel around 4 or 5 pm. Our team will provide you with the specific details upon your arrival.

What if I arrive early or need to stay some extra night after trip?

If you're arriving early or leaving late, please ensure to arrange extra hotel accommodations by contacting reservation@hsj.com.np. Let us know if you'll be extending your stay in Nepal, and we'll book your additional nights. Also, kindly share your flight details with us to facilitate a smooth pick-up and drop process.

How many people will stay in each room?

When you book a trip with us, the standard accommodation arrangement is on a twin-sharing basis. This means two people will be staying in each room throughout the trip. However, if you prefer to have a room to yourself or if you're traveling alone, you can choose the "single supplement" option. By selecting this option, you'll have a private room during the trip, but please note that there will be an additional cost for the single room arrangement according to tour / trek.

How large is each group ?

For each tour date, there will be several separate groups, each with a maximum of 14 people and their own experienced English-speaking guide. During the trek, there will be a suitable number of porters available to carry your luggage. Additionally, if you prefer to do a private tour or trek with your own group, that is also possible.

When is best time to visit Nepal?

Nepal has five main seasons: summer, monsoon, spring, autumn, and winter. Each season offers unique experiences and weather conditions.

Winter (Late Dec - Feb): Cold temperatures, great for festival tours and special highlights.

Spring (Mar - May): Magical rhododendron blooms, ideal for trekking and peak climbing.

Monsoon (Jun - Aug): Low season with rain, but perfect for nature lovers and discounts on hotels.

Autumn (Sep - Nov): Peak season, clear weather, and popular trekking regions fill up fast.

You can check the live weather condition via this website https://www.accuweather.com

Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trip?

The hotel in Kathmandu where you'll stay during the trip offers complimentary storage services. You can leave your luggage and extra clothing that you won't need for the trekking / tour. Rest assured, you can collect them once the trek and tour are over.

What type of plug is used in Nepal?

Don't forget to bring both TWO and THREE-pin travel adapters! If you don't have them, you can purchase them at supermarkets or electronic shops in Kathmandu. Our guide will be there to assist you if needed. You can get information about plug and voltage in below link.

https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/nepal/

Is there communication while we are on the trip?

Most places in Nepal are covered by mobile network providers, especially Ncell and Nepal Telecom. You can use data services for communication. You can buy a SIM card at the airport counter. There are also free and paid Wi-Fi services in most tea houses in Nepal during trek.

Here are some tips for staying connected while you are in Nepal:

Buy a SIM card as soon as you arrive in Nepal. This will give you access to data services and allow you to make calls and send text messages.
Check the coverage map of your mobile network provider before you travel. This will help you to know where you can expect to have good reception.
If you are planning on visiting remote areas and need to be in connected on Internet , you may want to consider renting a satellite phone. This will give you access to communication even in areas with no mobile network coverage.
There are many free and paid Wi-Fi hotspots in Nepal. You can find these at hotels, tea houses, restaurants, cafes, and even some temples.

What are the extra activities that I can book if I have extra time?

If you would like to book extra activities such as Paragliding, Bungy jump, Mountain flight, Heli Tour , Bhaktapur Sightseeing many more programs. You can find updated price and program detail in this link: https://hsj.com.np/tourtype/daytours. You can book by contacting us at reservation@hsj.com.np For longer excursions such as Bhutan, Tibet, India, and any other treks also, we can help but please contact us immediately at reservation@hsj.com.np

How do I redeem voucher?

If you have purchased a voucher from any deal company, please come in contact with us with the voucher code (redemption code) so that the voucher can be redeemed on time. Since we need time to purchase your domestic air ticket and make other arrangements, kindly confirm your spot with your suitable date at-least 2 months prior to the commencement of the tour. Your booking on a particular tour date is subject to availability of spots. You can redeem you voucher through this link too : https://hsj.com.np/voucher-redemption

What amount should I set aside for tips?

A typical suggestion for tipping is to allocate around USD 50-60 for the guide and porter if you're happy with their service. However, the amount you decide to tip is entirely up to you, and you can give whatever you feel is appropriate based on the excellent service they provided during your tour / trek

What should I bring?

Packing List for Tour:

Pack appropriate clothing for the weather conditions during your visit. Include comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don't forget essential travel documents, a camera, and any necessary medications.

Packing List for Trekking

Hiking

Trekking Poles - 1
Daypack - 1
Backpack - 1
Packcover
Water Reservoir - 1

Sleeping

Sleeping bag - HSJ will provide
sleeping bag liner

Clothes

Underwear - 3
Socks - 3
Bra - 3
base Layers pant - 1
Trekking Tshirt - 3
Trekking Pants - 2
Rain Pants - 1
Hiking Shoes/ Boots - 1
Gloves - 1
Hat - 1
Down Jacket - 1
Wind Breaker - 1
Sandles -1

Miscellaneous

Sunglasses - 1
Books or E-reader (optional)

Hygene/Saftey

Microfiber towel - 1
Toothbrush - 1
Toothpaste - 1
First aid kit - 1
Medicine kit -1
sunscreen -1
sewing kit -1
Soap/shampoo - 1
Comb or brush - 1
Period supplies - 1
Toilet paper - 1
sanitising gel - 1

Electronices

Camera
Phone
Extranel Hardrive (optional )
Head touch
Power bank for charging Phone

Packing List for Climbing:

Clothing

Trekking boots
Short-sleeved trekking shirts
Trekking pants and jackets
Thermals underwear
Long-sleeved Trekking shirts
Insulating down jackets
Woolen cap
Trekking Gloves
Raincoats

First Aid

Diamox tablets
Sanitary pads and tampons
Anti-nausea Medicines
Band-aids
Mosquito and insect repellents

Toiletries

Soap
Toilet Paper
Shampoo
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer

Accessories

Sunglasses
Sleeping bag
Cameras
Batteries
Water Bottle
Solar Chargers
Hot water thermos

Important Documents

Passport
Travel Permits

Peak climbing gears (HSJ will provide)

Climbing Helmet: Choose a good-quality climbing helmet. Make sure your warm cap fits under your helmet.
Climbing Boots: High-altitude, insulated, stiff-soled climbing boots.
Crampons: C2 crampons that fit the climbing boots.
Climbing Harness: Good-quality climbing harness.
Ascending device or Jumar
Descending or belay device
Tape sling: UIAA tested a 220cm open tape sling or a 2 x 120 cm closed tape sling.
Carabiners: 2 x lockable carabiners. 2 x non-locking carabiners
Prusik loop: Best quality Prusik loop
Ice ax: An ice ax with a wrist strap for climbing

What is cancellation policy of our tour/trek?

If you cancel the trip for any reason, the 20% deposit amount will not be refunded. If you have paid the full trip amount and need to cancel, you will receive your money back, but a cancellation charge of 20% will still apply.

For voucher holders who purchased vouchers from deal companies, we must adhere to their cancellation policy. However, under both circumstances, we are flexible and can reschedule your trip for a later date. To cancel any trip, please make sure to provide written notification of your cancellation.

What is refund policy for not completing trip?

Sometimes travellers are unable to finish the scheduled trek/tour due to the various reasons or they ended up not completing the trek/tour for health or personal reasons. In this case please realize that we cannot offer you any refunds for unused days on the tour. You have to understand that our costs are the same as we have an obligation to pay our guides , porters, drivers for the time they have committed.

What are the Risk and Liabilites?

Our commitment is to offer you an unforgettable journey with the best services. We take our responsibilities seriously and conduct all programs in Nepal according to the rules and regulations of Nepal Goverement. If needed, we can provide alternative itineraries for a delightful holiday experience. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns. We're here to help!

Trekking

Peak Climbing

Luxury Trek

Trekking

Trekking

Trekking

Sightseeing Tours

Helicopter Tour

Adventure Tours

Sightseeing Tours

Heli Tours

SightSeeing Tours

River Rafting

Jungle Safari

Spiritual and Yoga

About Us

BHUTAN CULTURAL TOUR

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Region

Duration

Outline Itinerary ( 8 Days ) Expand all +

Departures & Availability

Personal Information

Additional information

Include / Exclude

Additional Information

Essential Info Expand all +

Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?

Best season to travel in Bhutan?

Accommodation during tour in Bhutan

What will the food be like?

Will I be able to do laundry?

Do I need a plug converter?

What is the time difference?

Currency in Bhutan

Communication access in Bhutan.

Risk & Liabilities

Important Information Expand all +

How to get a visa for Nepal ?

How to enter Nepal ?

Is there a pick-up service available for me upon my airport arrival?

What is Airport condition in Nepal ?

What currencies are accepted in Nepal?

Is there an Orientation Program?

What if I arrive early or need to stay some extra night after trip?

How many people will stay in each room?

How large is each group ?

When is best time to visit Nepal?

Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trip?

What type of plug is used in Nepal?

Is there communication while we are on the trip?

What are the extra activities that I can book if I have extra time?

How do I redeem voucher?

What amount should I set aside for tips?

What should I bring?

Packing List for Tour:

Packing List for Trekking

Packing List for Climbing:

What is cancellation policy of our tour/trek?

What is refund policy for not completing trip?

What are the Risk and Liabilites?

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