Bhutan 2022 & 2023: 7-Day Luxury Small-Group Cultural & Spiritual Tour with All-Inclusive Dining, Tiger's Nest Visit & Optional Nepal Extension
Set amid the beautiful scenery of the Himalayas, the small mountain kingdom of Bhutan is a unique destination that retains a distinct character largely untouched by the modern world. On this luxury small-group tour (max 16. travellers), immerse yourself in authentic Buddhism and discover its impact on this unique and untouched country, witness the magnificence of the famed ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery with a spectacular hike to the clifftop and visit local marketplaces with authentic local arts and crafts.
Experience this breathtaking region’s famed beauty by staying in luxury, handpicked accommodation, including two nights at the five-star Le Méridien Thimphu, two nights at the stunning Dhensa Boutique Hotel in picturesque Punakha and two nights at Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. Throughout this unique journey, you’ll savour the delights of the region with daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, be regaled with expert knowledge thanks to the service of local guides, enjoy the convenience of a Bhutan visa fee, private transportation throughout and so much more, including insider experiences.
- Six nights of luxury accommodation at some of the best hotels in the country, including the stunning Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, including unique local dining experiences
- Once-in-a-lifetime hike to ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery
- An exploration into Buddhism with included visits to Bhutan’s famous monasteries
- Guided visits to Bhutan’s most important museums and cultural centres
- Journey through the scenic mountain pass of Dochula
- Visits to local markets showcasing genuine Bhutanese arts and crafts
- Private airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Private air-conditioned transportation throughout
- The services of an expert, English-speaking local guide
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty and taxes as applicable
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Your journey takes you to: Paro – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro – Tiger’s Nest – Paro.
Nepal extension available: Upgrade and extend your tour with four exciting nights in Nepal, where you’ll discover the regal beauty of famous Kathmandu, the incredible mountainous backdrop of Nagarkot and the grand aura of Mt. Everest with an included scenic flight over the famed mountaintop.
Covid-19 health and safety practices: Our expert Tours team is working hard to ensure the highest health standards at every point of your journey. Find out more.
Book with Confidence: We work directly with our trusted partners and provide 24/7 customer service to ensure that no matter what happens, we’re here to help. If your escape is affected by Covid-19 restrictions, we will do our best to assist you with a date change or provide you with a Luxury Escapes credit for another Limited Time Lux Exclusive accommodation, tour or cruise offer, less any unrecoverable costs; excludes flights. Find out more.
The Experiences – Sacred sites, local marketplaces and authentic food
Geographically, Bhutan sits between China and India but with a population of under a million, the country feels something of an anomaly. Famous for its sacred Buddhist sites, Thimpu will be your first stop. The capital of Bhutan is a unique fusion of modern development and ancient traditions. Discover local marketplaces selling traditional crafts and Bhutanese arts, witness the beauty of the 16th-century Pangri Zampa — Bhutan’s oldest monastery — where you’ll have the unique opportunity to interact with local monks, tickle your tastebuds with lunch at a local restaurant and experience breathtaking views over Thimpu Valley from Buddha Point, home to the largest Buddha statue in the country.
Witness the splendour behind Paro Taktsang (aka ‘Tiger’s Nest’) — one of the most famous Bhutanese monasteries — as it sits peacefully perched on the edge of a cliff, floating 900 metres above Paro Valley. A hike to the top of the cliff is rewarded with a view of this sacred site, visited by all Bhutanese at least once.
The Accommodation – Luxury hotels among picturesque backdrops
Unwind in Thimphu’s most luxurious five-star hotel with two nights at the majestic Le Méridien Thimphu. Wake to a striking Himalayan backdrop and spectacular vistas of Thimphu in a room that fuses traditional Bhutanese décor with contemporary furnishings. Thoughtful, intimate and superbly located, this hotel is everything you need to enjoy your stay in Bhutan’s striking capital.
Explore the famous 17th-century fortress, majestic rivers and Buddhist monasteries that picturesque Punakha has to offer with two blissful nights at Dhensa Boutique Resort. Sitting in the heart of vibrant Punakha Valley, the resort is fringed by thick pine forests and an abundance of walking trails and overlooks the beautiful Punakha River. Enjoy a boutique stay in this all-suite property and relax on your private balcony as you take in the sweeping views.
The grandeur of the Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront will dazzle you with a two-night stay in five-star luxury, perched on the banks of Paro River. The views alone are worth writing home about: 360-degree vistas of the majestic Eastern Himalayas surround you, while the local gastronomy and high-end amenities complete the experience.
Nepal Extension – See the world’s tallest mountain with a unique scenic flight
Not ready to end your adventure? Choose the extension option and spend four additional nights discovering Nepal’s Kathmandu and Nagarkot, with an international economy flight from Paro to Kathmandu included.
One of the world’s oldest cities, Kathmandu is brimming with medieval streets, charming shrines and spectacular natural beauty. Here, you’ll discover the grand aura of Mt. Everest with a breathtaking scenic flight high over the peak. Experience the majesty of flying above the summit of the highest mountain in the world as you take in the spectacular views over the Himalayas. Follow this with a day exploring the ageless sculptures and traditional structures of Kathmandu
Journey onto the mountain resort of Nagarkot, bypassing the rich history, ancient charm and unique culture of old-world Bhaktapur. Then surround yourself with the charming scenery and breathtaking views. Here, witness arguably one of the most amazing sunrises you’ll ever see. Wake early to watch the warm sunrise over the peaks of the Himalayas for a truly unforgettable experience.
Stay in luxury at the Hyatt Regency Kathmandu – set on 37 spectacular acres of vibrant, landscaped grounds. Primely located on route to Boudhanath Stupa — the holiest of Buddhist shrines in the country as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the hotel boasts a fusion of striking Nepalese architecture and traditional Newari style.
Plus, spend one magical night at the charming Hotel Mystic Mountain Nagarkot, nestled amid the dense forest, quaint villages and majestic tiered rice fields.
Your tour starts and ends at Paro International Airport (PBH) with roundtrip airport transfers included. The extended tour ends at Kathmandu Airport (KTM).
Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. Please do NOT book your flights until your tour is confirmed.
Please book your flights to arrive at Paro International Airport (PBH) by 4pm on Day 1 and depart from Paro International Airport (PBH) any time after 10am on Day 7. For the extended tour, flights can depart from Kathmandu Airport (KTM) any time after 10am on Day 11. Your flight from Paro to Kathmandu is included and timing will be advised closer to your departure date.
Private roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.
You MUST complete your booking form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Bhutan on your chosen tour start date.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Your Bhutan visa is included as part of your package. A clear colour, scanned copy of your identification pages of the passport you will be travelling on plus the arrival and departure flight details must be submitted no later than 60 days prior to your departure date in order for your visa to be processed in time for your departure.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements. Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Important Destination Information: Bhutan
Time zone: GMT+6
Telephone: +975
Currency: Bhutanese ngultrum (Nu)
Accessing money: Cash is advised as ATMs are not always reliable. Bank of Bhutan (BoB), Bhutan National Bank and Druk PNB Bank ATMs accept some foreign credit cards, but ATMs in Bhutan use the magnetic strip rather than digital chips, and some foreign banks do not permit withdrawals via this method.
Language: Dzongkha
Climate: The centre enjoys a sub-tropical climate with very cool winters while the northern parts have a harsher climate, including snowfall two to three times every winter.
Important Destination Information: Nepal
Time zone: GMT+5:45
Telephone: +977
Currency: Nepalese rupee
Accessing money: ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu and Pokhara with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.
Climate: In northern Nepal, summers are cool and winters are severe, while in the south, summers are very hot while winters are mild to cold. Nepal has five seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.
Day 1: Arrive Paro, Bhutan – Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m)
Welcome to the mountain kingdom of Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport (PBH), you will be met and transferred to your luxury hotel located in the heart Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan. The centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with an unusual mixture of modern development fused with ancient traditions. With a population of about 100,000, it is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light.
Later in the day, you’ll take an exploratory stroll around the local marketplace located a few minutes’ walk from the hotel, where you’ll visit the local craft bazaar, offering an abundance of genuine Bhutanese arts and crafts.
Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a memorable welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Le Méridien Thimphu
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Thimphu
After breakfast, you’ll drive to visit the oldest monastery in Bhutan. Built in the 16th century, Pangri Zampa is now a monastic school where Buddhist student monks learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy.
Your sightseeing journey takes you into the heart of Thimphu Valley with a visit to the Simply Bhutan Museum, offering an excellent display of ancient Bhutanese architecture, slowly lost to modernisation. Another highlight today is a visit to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum. Commonly known as ‘Arts and Crafts School’ or ‘Painting School’, the Institute offers a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
After lunch in one of Thimphu’s local eateries, continue to Buddha Point in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park – home to the largest statue of Buddha in the country and offering breathtaking views of the Thimphu Valley. Later, visit Tashichho Dzong: Fortress of the Glorious Religion. This is the centre of government and religion, and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king. Built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in the 1960s in a traditional Bhutanese manner – without nails or architectural plans.
Accommodation: Le Méridien Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Thimphu – Punakha (Altitude 3,080–1,300m)
After an early breakfast enjoy a dramatic drive (approx. three hours including scenic stops) over the high mountain pass of Dochula (3,080m) to Punakha, passing through dense forests of oak and rhododendron trees.
The journey continues over the 3,080m mountain pass where, on a clear day, the towering Himalayan peaks are clearly visible. The highway follows the scenic Dang Chhu before climbing through forests where you’ll stop briefly at Dochula Pass to take in the grand vista of the eastern Himalayan Range.
On arrival in Punakha, have time to rest before visiting Punakha Dzong, built strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Serving as the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history.
Following this, visit the nearby Rinchengang Village, one of the oldest villages in Bhutan. Here you will experience traditional architecture and delightful local people in a remote corner of sleepy Punakha Valley, where an ancient way of life has remained unchanged for generations. The majority of the population of Bhutan continues to live as it has for centuries – in small isolated farms and hamlets, surrounded by terraced fields of rice, maize and buckwheat.
Accommodation: Dhensa Boutique Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Punakha
This morning, take a short hike through fields of chilies and cabbages to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu River and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond.
After lunch, embark on an excursion to the village of Talo, located just above Punakha Valley. Built on a plateau with majestic views across the valley, this charming village showcases beautiful farmhouses where flowers, corn and sweet peas are grown in abundance.
Following this, visit the Nalanda Buddhist College – locals call this place ‘Dalayna’ while the monks refer to it as ‘Nalanda Buddhist College’. Spend the afternoon enjoying buttered tea, a spectacular view and interactions with local monks.
On the way back to the hotel, visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang nunnery. On a ridge amid pine trees, overlooking the valleys of Punakha and Wangdue Phodrang, gleams the magnificent structure of Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang (temple), which houses a 14-foot bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara, as well as other examples of statues made entirely by local Bhutanese artisans.
Accommodation: Dhensa Boutique Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Punakha – Paro (Altitude 2,280m)
After breakfast at the hotel, take a walking excursion to Chimi Lakhang. Situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, it is also known as the temple of fertility, where locals travel to pray to be blessed with children.
Afterwards drive (approx. 4 - 5 hours) back to Paro, descending from Dochula and following the road back up the dramatic Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys. En route, visit Simtokha Dzong, the place of profound tantric teaching, which now houses a school for the study of the Dzongkha language.
Upon arrival in Paro, check into the hotel. The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and centuries of myths and legends and is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries.
After time to rest, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. The extensive collection includes antique thangka paintings, textiles, weapons and armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artefacts. Following this, take a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, directly translating to ‘Fortress of the Heap of Jewels’, which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore, such as the old man of long life and scenes from the life of Milarepa.
Accommodation: Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Tiger’s Nest
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, travel to Satsam Chorten, stopping en route at the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.
On arrival at trailhead point, embark on a walking excursion* to Taktsang Monastery – one of the most famous Bhutanese monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900 metres above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery, hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place, visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the base of Tiger’s Nest before returning to the hotel for a well-earned rest.
This afternoon is at your leisure before you regroup this evening and bid farewell to your fellow travellers with a special dinner.
*Note: Due to its location, the only way to get to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is by hiking. No vehicles make the drive up to the monastery. On average it takes between four and five hours to do the roundtrip hike. A reasonable level of fitness is required.
Accommodation: Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: Depart Paro
After breakfast at the hotel, your tour comes to an end. Transfer to the Paro International Airport (PBH) for your flight home. Depending on your flight time, the day is at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
NEPAL EXTENSION
Day 7: Paro – Kathmandu, Nepal
Transfer to Paro International Airport (PBH) early this morning for your included flight to Kathmandu (KTM).
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is one of the world’s oldest cities. The old part of the city, with narrow medieval streets and lovely little shrines, centres on Durbar Square.
In the afternoon, enjoy a tour of Pashupatinath Temple – Nepal’s most important Hindu temple, situated on the banks of the holy river Bagmati. As the powerhouse of Hinduism, pilgrims and devotees come here for blessings, with many also choosing to be cremated on the banks of the holy river.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Flight: Departs Paro International Airport (PBH) at 7.45am and arrives into Kathmandu (KTM) at 8.45am (Druk Air)
Day 8: Kathmandu
Start the day with a breathtaking scenic flight around Mt. Everest, followed by a full day of sightseeing exploring the shrines, temples and ageless sculptures of Kathmandu and Patan. Visit Kathmandu City, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath.
Boudhanath Stupa is the largest stupa in Nepal, rich in Buddhist symbolism and attracting thousands of pilgrims daily. Observe people here light butter lamps, sing mantras, spin prayer wheels or simply stroll around the dome. In the evening, this place offers an amazing view with thousands of butter lamps lit up around the stupa.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Kathmandu – Nagarkot
Today, drive to the breathtaking mountain retreat of Nagarkot. En route, we make a stop at Bhaktapur city – a treasure of medieval arts and architecture.
Bhaktapur translates to ‘place of devotees’ and is a very old and fascinating place, rich in history and Buddhist symbolism. Bhaktapur Durbar Square displays Nepal’s ancient charms, especially the culture and work of the Newari people. Strolling through its old, traditional streets feels like going back in time. Walk further south to reach Pottery Square. Here, you can admire the beautiful handicrafts and try your hand at spinning your own clay pot.
After the visit, continue your drive to Nagarkot with its breathtaking mountain scenery and check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy to scenic vistas from the comfort of the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Mystic Mountain Nagarkot
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Nagarkot – Kathmandu
Today, wake up and witness the sunrise over the Himalayas. Before returning to Kathmandu, discover the healing nature of Nagarkot. Take a walk through the tranquil Buddha Peace Park, visit the ancient Hindu temple of Changu Narayan or walk part of the Nagarkot panoramic hiking trail with plenty of photo opportunities and striking lookout stops along the way.
Once back in Kathmandu, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to independently explore the city or enjoy a spot of last-minute souvenir hunting.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 11: Depart Kathmandu
After breakfast at the hotel, your tour comes to an end. Transfer to Kathmandu Airport (KTM) for your flight home. Depending on your flight time, the day is at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Your comfort and safety are our number one concern. Our expert Tours team is working hard to ensure the highest health standards at every point of your journey. Find out more.
Booking confirmation: after you book, please follow the instructions on your confirmation email and ensure you complete your traveller information details within 7 days.
This Tour package is valid for the following departure dates:
Low Season
- 7 December 2022
- 18 January 2023
- 8 February 2023
- 6 December 2023
High Season
- 6 April 2022
- 16 September 2022
- 12 October 2022
- 16 November 2022
- 1 March 2023
- 5 April 2023
- 15 September 2023
- 11 October 2023
- 15 November 2023
IMPORTANT: Please allow for travelling time. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Bhutan on your chosen tour start date. Please do NOT book your flights until your tour is confirmed.
NONE OF THESE DATES SUIT YOUR TRAVEL PLANS? If you wish to travel on an alternate date to those listed above, or on your own private tour with friends, please enquire for further information. Please note that surcharges may apply.
Private Group Tour Pricing:
Low Season:
- Regular tour: A$3,799 per person twin share, solo traveller supplement additional A$1,200 per person
- Extended tour: A$5,999 per person twin share, solo traveller supplement additional A$1,500 per person
High Season:
- Regular tour: A$4,599 per person twin share, solo traveller supplement additional A$1,400 per person
- Extended tour: A$6,999 per person twin share, solo traveller supplement additional A$1,700 per person
Booking Process
- Select which package option you would like, taking care to choose the correct season, length of stay and room capacity (Twin Share or Solo Traveller)
- Click on the green ‘Check Availability’ tab
- Using the plus or minus adjust the number of people you would like to book then click the ‘View Available Dates & Prices’ tab
- Click the blue ‘Select’ button then the green ‘Review & Payment’ tab at the bottom right of the screen
- Fill out your preferred payment method and click the green ‘Pay Securely Now’ tab
- Once your order is complete, you will receive your Luxury Escapes automated booking confirmation email (this is not your tour confirmation), and you will be prompted to complete your Traveller Details within 7 days of purchase
- One of our dedicated Tours Concierge Agents will then be in touch at a later stage to advise if your tour is confirmed. Please refrain from booking flights until tour is confirmed by our Tours Concierge team
- Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge team on tours@luxuryescapes.com who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey
IMPORTANT: The Twin-Share Package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin share). If you are travelling with another person you must purchase TWO PACKAGES, otherwise please purchase a Solo Traveller package.
Please note that packages cannot be split.
AMENDMENTS & CHANGES
Name Change or Corrections
- Name corrections may incur a fee.
- Name changes are not permitted.
7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee: Things don’t always work out. Our 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee is there to help. Bookings (except for cruise bookings and flights) may be cancelled with a full refund provided that cancellation occurs strictly within 7 days from the date of purchase and provided that the cancellation is made no less than 90 days prior to the departure date.
Date Changes
- You can enjoy unlimited, free date changes up until 90 days prior to original travel date, which are available via ‘My Escapes’, on request only
- Alternatively, you can cancel your tour booking up until 90 days prior to original travel date, with credit towards future travel for any Limited Time Lux Exclusive accommodation, tour or cruise package, excludes flights. Additional charges for date changes that result in a higher value will be charged to your account. Credit must be used within 12 months of issue date. After this time bookings are non-refundable except in accordance with our Refund Policy.
- Date changes do not apply to flights booked with Luxury Escapes. Flight fulfilment is provided by the airline(s) selected at the time of finalising the booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s).
- Luxury Escapes will advise if the change is confirmed via email and provide an invoice for the following, subject to fees from third party suppliers, air and rail travel and hotels (cabins on cruises).
Covid-19 Related Cancellations
For all new bookings from 13 October 2020, if you can’t travel as a direct result of border closures or Government-imposed travel restrictions that directly impact your booking, Luxury Escapes will:
- Allow you to change the dates of your tour,
- Offer you a credit for another tour, cruise or accommodation offer, less any third-party costs that Luxury Escapes can’t recover (including from airlines and tour providers), or
- Refund the full value of your tour, less any third-party costs that Luxury Escapes can’t recover (including from airlines and tour providers)
Accommodation
This tour includes accommodation at the following hotels:
- Thimphu — Le Méridien Thimphu (Classic Room)
- Punakha — Dhensa Boutique Resort (Suite Room)
- Paro — Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront (Classic Room)
Extended Program
- Kathmandu — Hyatt Regency Kathmandu (King/Twin Room)
- Nagarkot — Hotel Mystic Mountain Nagarkot (King/Twin Room)
IMPORTANT:
- Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
- Rooms will be made available after 3pm on day of arrival. Checkout is required by 10am. Early check-in and late checkout are available at an additional fee. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge team on tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Maximum room capacity is two adults.
Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation
Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge team on tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
Inclusions
- Accommodation as specified
- Daily breakfast and additional dining experiences as specified in the itinerary
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty and taxes as applicable
- International economy flight from Paro to Kathmandu for the extended program
- Private airport transfers and air-conditioned transportation throughout
- The services of expert, local English-speaking guides
- Sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
Exclusions
- Return international flights
- Nepal Visa if required
- Single supplement
- Meals/beverages not stated in the itinerary
- Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Tips and gratuities
- Dining inclusions do not include beverages (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
Age Restrictions
- This tour is restricted to guests aged 18 years and older.
- If you wish to travel with children aged under 18 years, or on your own private tour with friends, please enquire for further information. Please note that surcharges may apply.
Group Size
- Minimum number for this tour to operate is two guests. Please do NOT book your flights until your tour is confirmed.
- Maximum tour capacity is 16 guests.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Luxury Escapes recommends purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
- Luxury Escapes can assist you in purchasing travel insurance through our preferred provider. Please enquire for further information and to see if our policy is suitable for you.
Passports & Visas
- A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
- Important: Please start arranging your visa at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing time.
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).
Health & Vaccinations
- Travellers are advised to check the vaccine requirements for their trip with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccines require 30 days or more to be effective. Please check with your health professional that you hold the appropriate vaccination entry requirements for your destination.
- By purchasing this tour, you acknowledge the COVID 19 Health & Safety advice as shown here.
- Guests may be required to provide evidence of proof of vaccination against COVID 19 from our ground operator prior to departure. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge team on tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Important: The hotel, transportation and/or destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your departure.
Flights (tour extension only)
- Economy class flight from Paro to Kathmandu is included in your package.
- Preferred airline seating is the responsibility of the passenger. For any specific airline seat reservations, contact the airline with the booking number included on your tour confirmation.
- Please note that cabin upgrades are subject to availability and may not be available on all flights.
Tour Baggage Restrictions
- Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20kg.
- Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 7kg.
Transfers
- Arrival and departure transfers are only available on the first and last day. Please note, arrival and departure transfers are included between the hours of 6am and 6pm. If you arrive outside these hours a supplement may apply. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge team on tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- If booking a Twin-Share Package, transfers are based on two people sharing the one vehicle. If you are arriving on different flights at different times, a supplement will be charged for two separate vehicles.
- Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your Luxury Escapes group and may be shared amongst other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
- Flight details must be advised at least 60 days prior to your scheduled departure date. Failure to provide your confirmed flight details within this time period will result in forfeiting your transfer.
Porterage
On occasion, porterage is not included, therefore at times you may be expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available. Please refer to inclusions if porterage is included.
Tipping
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the package and are at your own discretion. As a guide, approximately US$10 – US$15 per person, per day, is the industry standard.
Fitness Requirements
Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities in this tour. Further, travellers acknowledge and agree that neither Luxury Escapes nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor is Luxury Escapes liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).
Dietary Requirements
In most cases Luxury Escapes can cater for special dietary requirements but please note that on occasion, this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry supplies with you.
Any dietary requirements must be received by Luxury Escapes at least 30 days prior to your scheduled departure date. Failure to provide these details by this date may result in an inability to cater for your requirements.
Valued Up To
The value and comparative savings have been determined based on published rack rates and the value of inclusions. Please be advised that rack rates may not be reflective of actual rates being charged, dependent on the timing and manner of your booking and therefore are only indicative of the level of saving.
Itinerary Amendments & Changes
Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ feedback as well as updates from our ground operators. Please note that while we operate successful tours in this region throughout the year, some changes may be necessary due to inclement weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities may also vary from time to time.
Surcharges
Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Luxury Escapes will inform its guests of these changes as soon as possible, these additional charges will be passed on by Luxury Escapes to the guest.
PLEASE NOTE:
Luxury Escapes reserves the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Package inclusions are correct at the time of purchase. Refer to your booking confirmation for details.