TRIP PROGRAM

At the appointed time, I will meet at Madrid Barajas airport to take the Emirates flight to Kathmandu.

     DEPARTURE: 15.25 Madrid Barajas ARRIVAL: 00.35 Dubai (June 20)

     SAL.. 02.05 Dubai                      

Night on board.

   ARRIVAL: 08.00 Kathmandu

Arrival at Kathmandu airport and transfer to the indicated hotel for one night with breakfast included.

Your rooms will be available immediately upon arrival, and you will have free time to rest and acclimatize to the city's altitude. Lunch will be at a local restaurant.

Accommodation and dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appointed time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, one of the most spectacular destinations in the entire Himalayas. Flying along the mountain range from Kathmandu, the journey offers breathtaking views and a thrilling descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. The first gift upon landing will be the fresh, clean mountain air.

Meet your guide and transfer to Thimphu (altitude 2.320m – 55 km, approximately 1 hours), the country's capital and center of government, religion, and commerce, a unique city with an unusual combination of modern development and ancient traditions. With a population of approximately 130.000, it is perhaps the only capital city in the world without traffic lights.

The road we will take crosses the Paro valley to the confluence of the Paro and Timbu rivers in Chuzom.

Shortly before arriving in Chuzom, we'll see Tamchog Lhakhang, a temple built by Thangtong Gyalpo, a pioneering engineer who introduced the construction of suspension bridges to Bhutan and Tibet (several of which are still in use). The current bridge to Tamchog Lhakhang was restored in 2005 with a traditional design using iron chains, and crossing it is a wonderful experience. Arrival at the hotel and accommodation for two nights with half board (breakfast and dinner).

Lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we will visit the National Monument Chorten (a Buddhist stupa that serves as a sacred monument, representing the enlightened mind of Buddha and used to enshrine relics, sacred texts, or objects belonging to important teachers). Located near the city center, it is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. It's the perfect place to interact with the locals, who flock here to spin the large red prayer wheels and pray at a small shrine inside the gate. The paintings and statues within the monument offer a profound understanding of Buddhist philosophy.

Next, we will take a walk through the main street and market area. The Ka Ja Thorm, formerly known as the Centennial Agricultural Market (CFM), marks a significant transformation in the city's urban landscape and brings together leisure, culture, knowledge, and tourism.

After the visit, return to the hotel.

Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel.

We will begin our morning visits with the Dordenma Buddha, perched atop a hill within Kuenselphodrang National Park. Crafted from bronze and adorned with a layer of gold leaf, it stands at an imposing height of 51,5 meters, cementing its position as one of the largest in Bhutan. Within the monumental sculpture itself, an astonishing 125.000 smaller Buddha statues, also cast in bronze and gilded, are meticulously arranged.

Next, we'll continue our walk to visit Changangkha Lhakhang (approximately 1 hours). As we walk along this path, we'll be greeted by a magnificent sight of thousands of prayer flags waving in the wind, creating a colorful and spiritual welcome. The path leads us through a pristine forest adorned with tall pines, elegant birches, and vibrant rhododendrons.

Changangkha Lhakhang is an ancient temple with a rich history dating back to its founding by Lama Phajo. This revered lama, originally from Tibet, is considered the founder of the Drukpa lineage in Bhutan. Construction of the temple began in the 12th century and was expanded by his son in the 13th century. At the heart of Changangkha Lhakhang stands a central sculpture of Chenrezig, an eleven-headed manifestation representing compassion and enlightenment. For generations, parents have traveled here to seek the blessing of the protective deity Tamdrin for their newborns. The children are blessed with a phurba (a ritual dagger) and adorned with a sacred cord as part of this cherished tradition.

We will continue our visit today at the Goema/Zilukha Monastery, which belonged to the Drubthob (built in the early 15th century by Thang Thong Gyalpo, who, thanks to his many talents, became popularly known as the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas).

Lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, to learn about traditional Bhutan crafts, we will visit the Zorig Chusum National Institute (1971) which is responsible for preserving and promoting thirteen traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts.

We will end the day with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, the "fortress of the glorious religion," the center of government and religion, home to the monarch's throne room and the seat of Je Khenpo, the Grand Abbot. Built in 1641 by Bhutan's political and religious unifier, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was rebuilt in the 1960s in the traditional Bhutanese style, without nails or architectural plans.

Dinner at the hotel and overnight stay.

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appointed time, transfer by our minibus to the Gangtey glacial valley (150 km, approx. 5 hours journey)

We'll begin our scenic drive to the breathtaking Dochula Pass at 3088 meters. After a brief stop at this viewpoint, we'll marvel at the panoramic vistas, admiring the ornate chorten (Buddhist stupa), the mani wall, and the waving prayer flags that adorn the highest point of the road. On clear days, the towering peaks visible from this pass include Masagang, Tsendagang, Terigang, Jejegangphugang, Kangphugang, Zongphugang, and the majestic Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak at 7.570 meters.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

At the Dochula Pass, we will encounter a view of 108 chortens, known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens, meticulously crafted by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk, the revered Queen Mother. These chortens, built in three layers, symbolize spiritual reverence: the bottom layer comprises forty-five chortens, the middle thirty-six, and the top twenty-seven, surrounding the central chorten.

Continuing our journey, we will head towards Gangtey, passing through dense forests adorned with oaks and rhododendrons. Upon reaching the Gangtey Valley, we will be greeted by a breathtaking landscape of unparalleled beauty. The vast expanse of the valley, devoid of trees, contrasts sharply with the backdrop of the surrounding hillsides, offering an exceptional and awe-inspiring view. Just past Gangtey Monastery, we will arrive at the charming village of Phobjikha.

In the afternoon, we will witness a prayer ceremony at a monastery, followed by a visit to the charming village of Gangtey. After the day's visits and experiences, we will arrive at our accommodation for two nights with half-board (breakfast and dinner) at an altitude of 3.000 meters.

Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today's first stop will be Gangtey Goenpa, a magnificent monastery perched atop a small hill in the heart of the valley. Notably, it is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western slopes of the Black Mountains and also the largest of its kind in Bhutan. It is surrounded by a bustling village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens (lay monks or meditating Buddhist practitioners) who diligently care for the monastery. Founded by Pema Trinley, grandson of the renowned Nyingmapa saint Pema Lingpa, the monastery dates back to 1613, when Pema Trinley became its first Gangtey Tulku (priest). The monastery continues to uphold Pema Lingpa's religious traditions, attracting both devotees and visitors.

After our visit to the monastery, we'll embark on a delightful hike along the Gangtey Nature Trail. Starting from a small hill overlooking Gangtey Goenpa, the trail leads us through flowery meadows, descending to the village of Semchubara before winding through captivating forests and into the expansive valley below. Along the 5,5-kilometer (3.5-mile) route, which takes approximately two hours (and is easily accessible), we'll pass a chorten and a Khewa Lhakhang, immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of the Phobjikha Valley.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, refreshed and ready to go, we'll venture into the Phobjikha Valley, known as the winter sanctuary for black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid northern plains to enjoy the milder climate. The valley's charm is enhanced by the presence of two meandering rivers, the Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap – black waters) and the Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp – white waters).

Our exploration continues with a visit to the Black-necked Crane Information Center, strategically located on the edge of the forest and wetland, next to the valley's main road. Equipped with high-powered telescopes and spotting scopes, the center offers a prime vantage point for observing the majestic cranes in their natural habitat. In addition, the exhibits provide information about the area's rich natural and cultural heritage.

Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appointed time, scenic transfer in our minibus to Punakha (85 km, approx. 3 hours of travel)

Before entering the city of Punakha, we will visit Wangduephodrang Dzong, which holds a special place in Bhutanese history. Founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1638, it sits atop a ridge between the Punak Tsang Chhu and Dang Chhu rivers, offering fantastic views of the valley below. Its strategic location allowed the Penlop (Governor) of Wangduephodrang to protect the routes to Trongsa, Punakha, Dagana, and Thimphu, making him the third most powerful ruler after the governors of Paro and Trongsa. The Dzong was damaged by fire in 2012 and was meticulously restored to its original grandeur and splendor in 2022.

Punakha was the capital and seat of government of Bhutan until 1955 and remains the winter residence of Je Khenpo (the chief abbot). Blessed with a mild climate and thanks to its natural drainage from the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the fertile Punakha Valley produces abundant harvests of vegetables and fruits. Located at an altitude of 1300 meters above sea level, it enjoys mild winters, making it a popular year-round destination.

Arrival at the indicated hotel and accommodation for two nights with half board.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Next, we will visit Punakha Dzong (the "Palace of Great Happiness"), an imposing structure built at the confluence of two rivers in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (founder of the Kingdom of Bhutan). The fortress once housed the country's government. Today, it is the winter residence of Je Khenpo, the Grand Abbot of Bhutan, along with a retinue of 1000 monks.

Afterwards, we will take a short walk through farms and rice paddies that will lead us to the 15th-century Chimi Lhakhang, 'the fertility temple' dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, a Tibetan Buddhist saint popularly known as the 'Divine Madman'.

Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart from the hotel to begin the day with a beautiful hike to the majestic Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten, built to dispel negative forces and promote peace, stability, and harmony in a changing world. The chorten overlooks the upper Punakha Valley, offering breathtaking views of Mo Chhu and the Gasa mountain peaks and beyond. (Approximately a 2-hour round-trip hike, very accessible).

Lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, an excursion to the village of Talo, scattered across the hillsides and known for its cleanliness and hygiene among the villages of Punakha. It is also considered the seat of the mental incarnations of the Zhabdrung (1594–1651), a Tibetan lama, spiritual leader, and the unifying founder of Bhutan as a nation-state in the 17th century. He established the theocratic system of government and Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism in the region, uniting warring valleys under a single national identity.

The Sangnacholing Dzong is built on a plateau and offers a majestic view of the surrounding villages. The beautiful farmhouses of Talo have their own flower gardens, and corn and colorful local plants are cultivated on the hillside.

Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel.

At the appointed time, scenic transfer in our minibus to Paro (2.300m altitude, 125 km away, approx. 4 hours of travel)

On the way to Paro, we will visit Simtokha Dzong, built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgya. It is known as Sangak and is considered the first dzong built in Bhutan. In fact, it is also the oldest dzong that remains as a complete structure.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Arrival at the indicated hotel and accommodation for two nights with half board.

The beautiful Paro Valley is steeped in rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and countless myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum, and the country's only international airport. Mount Chomolhari (7314 m) reigns supreme with its snow-capped peak at the northern end of the valley, its glacial waters cascading through deep gorges to form the Pa Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the Kingdom's most fertile valleys, where much of the famous local red rice is grown on its terraces.

Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Full day of sightseeing in Paro, starting with Ta Dzong. Originally built as a watchtower, it now houses the National Museum. Its extensive collection includes ancient thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household objects, and a rich collection of natural and historical artifacts.

Next, we will visit Rinpung Dzong ("jewel-pile fortress"), which boasts a long and fascinating history. Along its wooden galleries that line the inner courtyard are beautiful murals illustrating Buddhist traditions, such as the Four Friends, the Long-Lived Elder, the Wheel of Life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount Sumeru, and the Cosmic Mandala.

Next, we will have the opportunity to admire the renowned Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) from its base. It is the most emblematic and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site in Bhutan, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley. Built in 1692, the monastery commemorates the spot where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated in the 8th century after flying there on a tigress, making it a cultural and spiritual symbol of the Himalayas. (The ascent and descent are only possible on foot and take more than 5 hours in total.)

Lunch at a local restaurant.

On the way back to the city, we stopped en route to visit Kyichu Lhakhang. It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in the Kingdom, dating back to the 7th century. The complex consists of two temples; the first was built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and is one of 108 temples erected to subdue a giant demon, marking its left foot. In 1968, Her Majesty Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, built the second temple according to the original design.

Dinner and accommodation.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure from the hotel very early in the morning for transfer to Paro airport and take the local flight to Kathmandu.

Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the designated hotel to check into your room for the day. During the journey, we will take a panoramic tour of the city.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Free time available for last-minute shopping and to enjoy this city for a few hours.

At the appointed time, transfer to the airport to take the intercontinental flight back to Madrid.

     DEPARTURE: 00:35 Kathmandu ARRIVAL: 04:05 Dubai

     DEPARTURE: 07.40 Dubai ARRIVAL: 13.30 Madrid Barajas   

*** END OF TRIP AND OUR SERVICES ***

Outbound: FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 – EMIRATES & FLYDUBAI

15.25 Madrid Barajas 00.35 Dubai (June 20)

02.05 Dubai 08.00 Kathmandu

Return leg: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 – Emirates and Flydubai

00.35 Kathmandu 04.05 Dubai

07.40 Dubai 13.30 Madrid Barajas

*The final price will be reviewed at the time of confirmation of the trip and issuance of the air ticket

Price per person in a double room in a group of 15 people………………………………………………… 5.445 €

Price per person in a double room for single use in a group of 15 people………………………. €6.250

Price per person in a double room in a group of 10 people………………………………………………… 5.735 €

Price per person in a double room for single use in a group of 10 people………………………. €6.545

Price per person in a double room in a group of 8 people………………………………………………….. €5.985

Price per person in a double room for single use in a group of 8 people………………… €6.790

 The minimum number of people required to guarantee the departure of the trip is 8.

Consult supplement if you want to fly in business class or upgrade your room category.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• International flights in economy class as per program with 1 checked bag of 23 kg per person included.
• Flights Kathmandu/Paro/Kathmandu (20 kg checked baggage / 7 kg carry-on)
• 4* hotels as per program or similar on a half board basis (breakfast and dinner).
• Air-conditioned transport vehicles for all transfers and land journeys.
• All visits to monuments, monasteries and museums, according to the program.
• Lunches and dinners in local restaurants and hotels, drinks not included as per program.
• Tickets to the monuments described in the program.
• Spanish-speaking guides throughout the tour.
• Sustainable Development Tax (SDF) and taxes.
• Bhutan visa fees
• Entry visa to Nepal (Kathmandu).
• Modular Plus Excellence travel insurance with cancellation coverage (up to €7.000).
• Agency support (José Chicano).

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Personal expenses.
• Drinks at lunch and dinner.
• Tips for drivers, guides and other staff who assist during the trip.
• Any other service not specified in the “price includes” section.

TO MAKE RESERVATIONS:

We need a transfer to this account number of €2.800 per person, the rest of the payment will be requested 1 month before the trip and a copy of the passport with which you will travel (minimum 6 months validity from the entry to the first country).

• ENTITY: LA CAIXA – Office 2121 – AV. DE FELIPE II, 18 28009 MADRID
• BENEFICIARY: VS IN AND OUT, SL
• CURRENCY: EUROS
• IBAN: ES33 2100 2121 2102 0041 3147
• BIC (SWIFT): CAIXESBXXXX

(Please indicate as concept: “BUTAN CULTURAL TRIP” with your full name and send it by email, to the attention of: belenparpal@viajessingulares.com).

IMPORTANT NOTES

• The order of the visits can be altered respecting the content, if the accompanying guide considers it appropriate, for the best development of the trip.
• Prices are calculated based on current rates and conditions. Any change in rates or introduction of new taxes, significant changes in currency exchange, etc., may cause our final price to vary, which will be communicated at the time of payment.
• Any additional service during the trip must be paid by the client.
• To make reservations correctly we need the names and surnames of the passengers, as well as a copy of their valid PASSPORT.

Requirements for a Nepal and Bhutan Visa

We need the following documents to process both visas:

Passport copy:

Color copy of the first page of the passport.

Minimum validity of 6 months (excluding the month of travel).

The entire page must be visible, without cropping.

Passport size photograph:

A recent photo (standard 45×35 mm), no more than six months old.

In color, portrait style, eyes open, forehead and ears clearly visible.

White background and no borders.

CANCELLATION POLICY  (applied after confirmation/payment):

In the event that the client wishes to cancel travel plans, the following penalties will apply (the percentages indicated below are percentages of the total cost of the travel plans, not the amounts paid to date) All dates that The following are working days, that is, from Monday to Friday between 10:00 and 18:00, calculated according to the date and time in Spain:

• 20% from confirmation until 45 days before the first service provided
• 40% from 44 to 25 days before the first service provided
• 60% 24 to 15 days before the first service provided
• 80% 14 to 7 days before the first service provided
• 100% if there are 6 business days or less from the first service provided.

If some hotels/services' cancellation policies are more restrictive than ours, theirs will apply.