Black-Necked Crane Festival Experience - 11 Days
Overview: Celebrate the arrival of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes in the Phobjikha Valley. This festival highlights the importance of conservation and offers a unique blend of cultural and natural exploration.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu
- Arrive in Paro and transfer to Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten and local craft shops.
Day 2: Thimphu Exploration
- Explore Thimphu’s key attractions, including the Royal Textile Academy, the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, and local markets.
Day 3: Drive to Punakha
- Travel to Punakha, visiting the Dochula Pass and the Punakha Dzong. Enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the valley.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
- Drive to the Phobjikha Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and as the winter home of the Black-Necked Cranes.
Day 5: Black-Necked Crane Festival - Day 1
- Participate in the first day of the Black-Necked Crane Festival. Witness traditional dances and learn about the conservation efforts for these majestic birds.
Day 6: Black-Necked Crane Festival - Day 2
- Continue enjoying the festival’s activities. Explore the beautiful Phobjikha Valley and visit the Gangtey Monastery.
Day 7: Return to Thimphu
- Drive back to Thimphu, with stops at scenic viewpoints and local attractions along the way.
Day 8: Thimphu to Paro
- Travel to Paro, visiting the Paro Dzong and the National Museum. Stroll through the charming town and local shops.
Day 9: Paro Exploration
- Discover Paro’s cultural sites, including the Kyichu Lhakhang and the Drukgyel Dzong.
Day 10: Hike to Tiger’s Nest
- Hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing in Paro.
Day 11: Departure from Paro
- Enjoy some leisure time in Paro before your departure, reflecting on your journey through Bhutan’s culture and nature.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF): Covering the $100 per day fee dedicated to Bhutan's sustainable development and conservation, ensuring you contribute to preserving the country's unique heritage.
- Private Transport: Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a professional driver for all transfers and excursions throughout your Bhutanese journey.
- Expert Local Guide: Benefit from the knowledge and insights of an experienced, English-speaking local guide who will accompany you, offering deep understanding into Bhutan's culture, history, and natural wonders.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy stays in carefully selected, government-approved hotels and guesthouses that offer a blend of comfort, local charm, and warm hospitality.
- Full-Board Meals: Savor daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with meals featuring a variety of Bhutanese delicacies and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
- Festival Entry and Participation: Full access to the Black-Necked Crane Festival in Phobjikha Valley, where you can witness traditional dances, songs, and performances celebrating the arrival of the revered cranes.
- Cultural Site Visits: Explore Bhutan’s historical and cultural treasures, including visits to iconic monasteries, dzongs, and temples en route to Phobjikha Valley, such as the majestic Punakha Dzong and the Gangtey Monastery.
- Nature Excursions: Participate in guided walks and hikes in the breathtaking landscapes of Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its natural beauty and as a wintering ground for the black-necked cranes.
- Wildlife Viewing: Special guided excursions to observe the black-necked cranes in their natural habitat, with opportunities for photography and birdwatching.
- Village Interactions: Visit local villages and interact with the residents, gaining insights into rural Bhutanese life and customs.
- Cultural Workshops: Engage in cultural demonstrations and workshops that highlight Bhutanese crafts, traditions, and skills, such as weaving and traditional archery.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy picturesque drives through Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, including the scenic Dochula Pass, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
- Picnic Lunches: Relish picnic-style lunches amidst Bhutan's beautiful natural settings, adding a unique touch to your travel experience.
- Farmhouse Stay Experience: Experience authentic Bhutanese hospitality with a stay in a traditional farmhouse, providing a closer look at rural life and local customs.
- Complimentary Refreshments: Stay refreshed with bottled water, tea, and coffee available throughout your tour.
- Permits and Visa Fees: All necessary permits for travel within Bhutan, including visa fees, are included.
- Laundry Service: Enjoy complimentary laundry service during your stay for added convenience.
- Emergency Medical Kit: A basic medical kit is available to address any minor health concerns during the tour.
What’s Not Included:
- Personal Expenses: Any costs for personal items, souvenirs, additional snacks, and beverages beyond those provided in meals are not included.
- Medical / Travel Insurance: Ensure you have your own travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies or travel disruptions, as it is not included in the package.
- International Airfare: Flights to and from Bhutan are not included and must be arranged separately.
- Optional Activities: Any activities or excursions not specified in the itinerary or any personalized requests beyond the planned tour are not covered.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included and are left to the traveler’s discretion.
$5,500.00 Regular Price
$4,950.00Sale Price
