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A significant portion of the cost you pay for the trip supports underprivileged children & communities.
IFRE is a US-based 501(c)3 non-profit charity. We adhere to high standards of service and professionalism.
Since 2006, over 22,000 happy volunteers and travelers have contributed to making this world a better place with us.
We guarantee you a worry-free travel experience. Our fully trained guides take care of you throughout the journey.
Are you prepared for an extraordinary Bhutan tour that will ignite your soul? Do you have a burning desire to help make this world a better place? Then come along with us on the Glimpse of Bhutan Tour, where you may experience a life-changing adventure while improving the lives of underprivileged communities and children.
Embark on a captivating 6-day tour of Bhutan, the land of happiness. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage as you explore ancient monasteries, visit traditional villages, and witness vibrant festivals. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Bhutan, from lush valleys to towering Himalayan peaks, on this unforgettable journey of discovery.
When you join this tour, you are not just embarking on a personal adventure but also supporting a noble cause. We are a global non-profit organization dedicated to transparency and accountability, unlike businesses that are focused on making a profit. A portion of the savings from your trip directly supports less fortunate children, local schools, and women's groups. Discover more about the impactful charity work facilitated by compassionate travelers like you on our website: ifrevolunteers.org/charity.
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Arriving in Paro on a breathtaking mountain flight, our representative will greet you at the airport exit after completing customs formalities. From there, we will proceed to Thimphu, where our first visit will be to Buddha Point, offering stunning views. We will then continue to Takin Zoo, followed by visits to the School for Arts and Crafts, the National Library, the Traditional Paper Factory, and the Royal Textile Museum. In the evening, we will check into our hotel in Thimphu. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
We will drive over the Dochu-La pass, situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters, providing a magnificent view of the Himalayan peaks on clear days. Descending into the pleasant Punakha valley, the journey of about 3 hours offers glimpses of everyday life in this remote Himalayan kingdom. Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, welcomes us with a visit to Punakha Dzong, known as the "Palace of Great Happiness," built in 1637.
Situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers, it serves as the winter headquarters for the Je Khenpo and numerous monks. The main temple of Punakha Dzong, with its intricate architecture and gold and silver decorations, is a sight to behold. After lunch, we will take a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of the Divine Madman, who preached a different approach to religion. Overnight stay in Punakha.
After breakfast, we will drive back to Thimphu and visit Simtokha Dzong. The day will be dedicated to sightseeing, including a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, a temple initiated by the Third King to protect against negative elements of modernization and promote world peace. We will also explore Tashichhodzong, a fortress-like monastery that houses ministries, the secretariat, and the central monk body. Later, we can take a leisurely stroll in the town of Thimphu. Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Returning to Paro, we will visit Tachogang Lhakhang before embarking on sightseeing in Paro. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum, offering insights into Bhutan's history, culture, and religion through religious relics, art, and handicrafts. We will also see the Rimpong Dzong, known for its painting of the great saint Milarepa, and visit Kichu Lhakhang. Overnight stay in Paro.
Today, after breakfast, we will embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. The trail, approximately 2 hours uphill (horse rides available for those who prefer), leads to the monastery perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro valley. This sacred site holds immense importance for Buddhists as it is believed that Guru Rimpoche, the great Buddhist master, flew here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Nearby, there is a teahouse where we can take a break and enjoy refreshments. Later, we will experience a traditional stone bath. Dinner and overnight stay in a farmhouse in Paro.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive you to the airport for your onward destination. Your memorable journey through Bhutan comes to an end, and we bid you farewell as you depart from Paro.
When it comes to embarking on the Bhutan tour, choosing IFRE is a decision that combines adventure with purpose.
Our experienced team of local guides and staff provide expert guidance throughout your tour, ensuring your safety, comfort, and meaningful connections with the local communities.
Our trips have guaranteed departure dates. Once booking is confirmed, your trip is guaranteed to run irrespective of the number of participants, giving you the peace of mind.
Our website provides secure encryption technology to ensure the safety of your personal and payment information, giving you peace of mind when making reservations.
We believe that every trekker is different and deserves a personalized itinerary. We customize your trek itineraries based on your preferences and ensure that you have a wonderful time.
Through our commitment to social responsibility, we actively contribute to the betterment of communities, fostering positive change and inspiring others to join us in creating a brighter future for all.
Our track record of satisfied customers speaks for itself. Many of our clients have returned to travel with us again, and we receive numerous referrals from happy travelers.
You will need to fly to Paro International Airport in Thimpu, Bhutan.
Yes, we will reschedule your pickup time if your flight gets delayed. Our representative will be waiting for you at the airport’s arrival point with your nameplate and will transfer you to your hotel accommodation from the airport.
Yes, you will receive a detailed orientation the day you arrive at your hotel from our highly experienced guide. The orientation will cover essential information such as the trip route, day-to-day itinerary, safety measures, and any specific instructions or recommendations required for your trip.
You will be provided with the contact details of your tour guide and tour manager once your booking is confirmed. They can be reached via phone or email and will be readily available to address any concerns or emergencies you may have.
To obtain a visa for Bhutan, you must go through a licensed foreign or local agent in Bhutan, with the exception of Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals. The agent will require a clear scanned copy of your passport to process the visa. Full payment is necessary for visa processing, and it is important to ensure that your passport has at least 6 months of validity.
Yes, Bhutan follows a policy of high-value, low-impact tourism to preserve its unique culture and environment. To achieve this, a daily tariff is imposed on visitors, controlling the number of tourists and promoting a sustainable approach to tourism.
We highly recommend all travelers to obtain their own travel insurance to ensure coverage for any unforeseen circumstances or medical emergencies during their visit to Bhutan.
It is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully while visiting Bhutan, particularly when entering temples and religious sites. Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities is also recommended.
Mobile phone coverage is available in most parts of Bhutan, although it may be limited in remote areas. Internet access is provided in hotels and cafes, although the connection speed may be slower compared to other countries.
Bhutan offers abundant opportunities for photography, especially during outdoor sightseeing trips. However, indoor photography is generally prohibited in Dzongs, temples, monasteries, and religious institutions unless you obtain a special permit from the Department of Culture. You are encouraged to capture images of landscapes, mountain ranges, rural life, flora and fauna, Bhutanese architecture, as well as Dzongs and Chortens.
In Bhutan, you can find a variety of goods to purchase, including hand-woven textiles made of raw silk or silk, carved masks depicting various animals, woven baskets made of cane and bamboo, wooden bowls called Dapas, handmade paper products, and finely crafted silver goods. There are also shops that sell beautiful Thangkha paintings and Bhutan's unique postage stamps. Handicraft shops can be found in and around Thimphu and Paro.
Tipping is generally practiced for guides, drivers, hotel porters, and trekking crews. However, it is discouraged in other situations.
Tourists in Bhutan are typically transported in medium-sized buses (20-22 seats), small buses (8-12 seats), or hired cars. Larger coaches are not permitted due to the limited width of the roads.