Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
INDIA and BHUTAN deluxe tour accompanied by Bonnie – September
18 – October 7, 2015
NAMASTE
FRIDAY – September 18, 2015
Arrive Delhi, transfer to hotel The Oberoi Delhi. Overnight.
ARRIVE DELHI
SATURDAY – September 19
Visit main sights of Old and New Delhi:
DELHI (B, L, D)
RAJGHAT, RED FORT, JAMA MASJID, CHANDINI CHOWK, HUMAYUN’S TOMB,
INDIA GATE, RASTRAPATI BHAWAN, QUTAB MINAR, including tricycle in Old Delhi.
Overnight hotel.
SUNDAY, September 20
DELHI – AGRA
210 Kms. / 3.5 hrs (approx.)
(B, L, D)
Depart for “Mughal City” – Agra, arrive check-in Oberoi Amarvillas Hotel. Late
afternoon visit the TAJ MAHAL (the “Monument of Love”). Overnight hotel
MONDAY, September 21
AGRA (B, L, D)
Visit TAJ MAHAL early morning for sunrise. Return to hotel for breakfast. Enjoy morning at
hotel. In the afternoon, visit AGRA FORT. Overnight hotel in Agra.
TUESDAY, September 22
AGRA – JAIPUR
235 Kms. / 4.5 hrs (approx.)
(B, L, D)
Visit the “Pink City” – Jaipur, on the way visit FATEHPUR SIKRI. Arrive Jaipur, check-in at The
Oberoi Rajvillas or similar.
WEDNESDAY, September 23
Tour AMBER FORT. Elephant ride to go up.
Afternoon highlights of Jaipur:
JAIPUR (B, L, D)
HAWA MAHAL, THE CITY PALACE, JANTAR MANTAR
ASTRONOMY MUSEUM. Special Dinner. Overnight hotel.
THURSDAY, September 24
Free day. Late afternoon shopping in local markets.
-
JAIPUR (B, L, D)
Overnight hotel in Jaipur.
FRIDAY, September 25
JAIPUR – MUMBAI – AURANGABAD (B, L, D)
Transfer to airport for flight to Aurangabad, connecting in Mumbai. Arrive Aurangabad, transfer to Taj
Hotel or similar.
NOTE – Baggage limit 15 kgs per person for domestic flights.
SATURDAY, September 26
AURANGABAD (B, L, D)
1
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
Full day tour of AJANTA and ELLORA CAVES.
overnight.
Return to Aurangabad for
SUNDAY, September 27
AURANGABAD – MUMBAI (B, L, D)
Morning short city tour of Aurangabad. Transfer to airport for flight to the “City of Dreams” - Mumbai.
Note: baggage limit per person 15 kgs for domestic flights.
Arrive Mumbai, transfer to The Oberoi Mumbai.
MONDAY, September 28
After breakfast, city tour of Mumbai, highlights:
MUMBAI (B, L, D)
MARINE DRIVE, GATEWAY OF INDIA, THE PRINCE OF WALES
MUSEUM, VICTORIA TERMINUS, MANI BHAWAN, DHOBI GHAT,
FLORA FOUNTAIN, CRAWFORD MARKET.
WEDNESDAY, September 30
MUMBAI –Return or DELHI for BHUTAN
optional (B)
Transfer to airport for return flight or flight to Delhi
Cont. Option WEDNESDAY, September 30
DELHI for BHUTAN optional (B)
Transfer to airport for return flight or flight to Delhi
Land arrangements cost per person twin / double occupancy minimum 10 persons: USD 6 0 7 1 /single supplement USD2786.00 - ending September 30, 2015
(B) Land arrangements cost per person twin / double occupancy minimum 10 persons extra night in
Delhi to continue to Bhutan: USD6342.00 - single supplement USD3193.00 INCLUDING AIR FARE DE
Price includes:
12 nights hotel twin / double occupancy with daily breakfast; 10 lunches and 10 dinners including 3
special ones with no drinks; all transfers and tours in air-conditioned car with driver and assistant;
entrance fees to sights mentioned with Spanish and English speaking guide; cycle ride in Old Delhi,
elephant ride up and jeep down Amber Fort; economy class tickets Jaipur / Mumbai / Aurangabad /
Mumbai; tips to porters.
Price does not include: tips for guide and driver; drinks during meals, travel insurance – highly
recommended; any other personal expenses such as visa.
BHUTAN
October 01-07, 2015 (6 nights / 7 days)
BHUTAN
01 Oct – 07 Oct’2015
PRIVATE TOUR ITINERARY
T R I P F A C T S:
Trip length: 06 Nights / 07 Days
2
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
Starts in: Paro (Bhutan)
Ends in: Paro (Bhutan)
Activities- Cultural sightseeing and day hikes.
Maximum Altitude: 2320m/ 7656ft above sea level.
O U T L I N E I T I N E R A R Y:
Day 01: Arrive Paro. Later drive to Paro and check into the hotel. Afternoon a short
sightseeing of the town. Overnight in Paro.
Day 02: Drive to Thimphu, half day sightseeing in Thimphu. Overnight in Thimhu.
Day 03: Sightseeing in Thimphu. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 04: Drive to Punakha/Wangdue. Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue.
Day 05: Sightseeing in Punakha/Wangdue and drive to Paro. Overnight in Paro.
Day 06: Sightseeing in Paro. Overnight in Paro.
Day 07: Depart from Paro Airport
TR I P HI G H L I G H T S :





Hike to Tiger’s Nest in Paro and other day hikes
Visit Farm House
Visit Monastery and some Museums
Dressing up in national costume
Stroll around the city shopping
01 OCT 15: ARRIVE IN PARO AIRPORT(BHUTAN)
Altitude: 2280m/ 7524ft above sea level.
(D)
The flight into the Himalayas reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan
Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt Everest (8848m,
29,198ft) and other Himalayan mountain ranges. After immigration and customs
formalities, checking into the hotel.
Later visit, Rimpung Dzong: The Bhutanese Dzongs are huge architectural structures
constructed for a variety of functions throughout the country, from administrative buildings
to monasteries and temples, yet they are carefully and thoughtfully designed and are
strikingly beautiful. The Rimpung Dzong, known as the “fortress of the heap of jewels” in the
picturesque setting of the Paro valley, is of course no exception, built in the time of the
dynamic spiritual and political leader Zhabdrung in 1644. Once a year, as part of the Tsechu
festival, one of the oldest Thongdol (gigantic scroll paintings) is ceremonially unfurled here.
3
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
Kichu Lhakhang(Monastery): It is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in
Bhutan. It was built in 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
Ta Dzong: This means - watch tower, which it served as during the 17th century to guard the
region from the Tibetan invasion. It was converted to the National Museum in 1968. It houses
a fine collection of Bhutanese art, relics, religious thankas (used to bolster the visualization
generated during meditation and were made from Himalayan animal fibers), paintings,
animals found in Bhutan, arms and ammunitions and the country’s exquisite stamp
collections.
Later relax for the day and stroll around the town. Overnight in Paro.
02 OCT 15: PARO TO THIMPHU
Altitude: 2320m/ 7656ft above sea level.(1 hour Drive)
(B,L,D)
Morning drive to Thimphu and on the way to Thimphu visit, Tachhog
Lhakhang which is located on the opposite side of the river. This is a
temple built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet, who was responsible for
building numerous iron bridges throughout Bhutan…
Kuenselcholing View Point: A place from where you can get a good
overview of the Thimphu valley is from the Buddha point (Kuensel Phodrang). It is again a
short drive from the town. You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the
largest statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the
valley.
Bhutan Craft bazaar: The private stalls had a variety of high-end quality
products from places across the country such as wood carved national symbols,
bags and western wears with touch of traditional designs, wooden and clay utensils,
Bangchung, Dhapa, key hanger of jewelry boxes, bookmarks and handmade packing papers
(Deysho) in different patterns, antique items and etc. The stalls have a distinctly rich
outlook with fine tones of elegance, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. The craft
bazaar is also an exemplary of how bamboo can be used to construct houses in the
country.
Memorial Chorten: This particular chorten was constructed in 1974 as a memorial for the
third King of the country, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is widely regarded as the father
of modern Bhutan.
Thangtong Dewachen(Nunnery): It was founded in 1976 by Rikey Jadrel, who is considered as
emanation of Thangthong Gyalpo(1363 – 1485), the builder of numerous iron chain bridges
across the Himalayas.
Tashichho Dzong : The names means - Means Fortress of Glorious Religion. It was built in
1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and
the office of the king, and the central monk body. Overnight in Thimphu.
4
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
03 OCT 15: IN THIMPHU
(B,L,D)
Today those who want to dress up in Bhutanese costume will dress up before commencing
for the trip.
Morning visit, Tango Monastery which is located at the farthest region north of Thimphu. It
is roughly 14 kilometers away from Thimphu town. Following the trail, the walk uphill takes
about 40 minutes to reach the monastery. The word Tango literally means ‘horse head’ and is
derived from the deity Tandin (Hayagriva) that features the head of a horse. The revered
place of Hayagriva was first recognized by Guru Rinpoche in the eighth century. In 1222 A.D.
Phajo Drugom Zhigpo visited the place and while he was involved in his teachings in Dodeyna,
he heard the neighing of a horse approaching from the direction of Tango. On approaching the
place, to his surprise he saw a cliff, alleged to be the body of the deity Tandin, engulfed in
flames. The deity appeared before him in person and prophesied that Phajo would build a
meditation centre at Tango, marry the Dakini, Khando Sonam Peldon and lay the foundations
for the Drukpa Kagyu School in Bhutan.
Paper factory: The handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the age old tradition
originated in 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes as valuable
National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The
Traditional paper is recognized and held high esteem both in home and outside world.
Zorig Chusum Institute: The 13 arts and Crafts institute. The two main objectives of the
institute are a) to preserve and promote the traditional arts and crafts and b) to create job
opportunities for the underprivileged group of the society.
General Post office of Bhutan: Get an insight into Bhutan through its stamps. Visit their
Philatelic Bureau for their beautiful, unique and wide range of stamps and philatelic
products. You can also order them from Bhutan Post and its agents around the world. All
types of attractive postage stamps, picture post cards, stamp albums, envelopes, etc., are
available at the philatelic counters which are best for presentation and gift purposes. The
bureau also maintains prepaid customer accounts such as Ordinary account and Standing order
account.
Overnight in Thimphu.
04 OCT 15: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA/WANGDUE
Altitude: 1350m/4455ft above sea level.(4 hours drive).
(B, L, D)
Morning driving towards Punakha/Wangdue, we come across a pass known as
Dochula (3140m, 10362ft) from where a beautiful panoramic view of the
Himalayan mountain range can be seen, especially in clear winter days. The
beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens- a 108 stupas built by
the eldest Queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.
Later hike to Chimi Lhakhang(Temple of fertility): This Temple was built by lam Drukpa
Kuenley (The Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about thirty minutes hike across fields from the
road –Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of the houses and also
5
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
phalluses are painted on the walls of houses. It is the common belief that this helps in driving
away evil spirits.(30 minutes hike to and fro, gentle steep, good footh path across the
valleys and villages)
Overnight in Punakha/Wangdue.
05 OCT 15: PUNAKHA/WANGDUE TO PARO
(B, L, D)
Morning visit, Punakha Dzong (fortress): Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung which is remarkably
located between the rivers of Mo (Female) Chu (river) and Pho (Male) Chu. Until the time of
second king it served as a seat of the king.
Later visit Punakha Nunnery: Perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooking
valleys of Punakha and Wangduephodrang, gleams the magnificent structures of
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang(Temple). The temple houses a 14-foot main
bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrigzig chagtong chentong). Other statues include those
of Guru Padmasambawa, Gautama Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, Tsela Namsum, the
21 Taras and Tsepamay (Buddha of longevity). The Avalokiteshvara statue, one of the biggest
in the country, was the handiwork of entirely local Bhutanese artisans. The temple complex
also houses a permanent higher learning and meditation centre for nuns where, apart from
religious trainings, it provides life skill training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making
and thangka painting.
Visit Rinchengang Village: The ancient look of the houses built on sliced
hilltop baring a dusty orange-soil reminds travellers of the crowded mud
houses in Morocco or a closer resemblance to one of those clustered
towns etched against hills in Kabul, Afganistan.
The mesmerizing village known as Rinchengang, which is about 20-minute walk up a gentle
gradient appears like a maze to a first time visitor with numerous narrow alleys leading up to
numerous two storied traditional houses just inches away from each other.
Later stroll around the Punakha town. Drive to Paro for overnight.
06 OCT 15: IN PARO
(B, L, D)
Morning hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s nest): This is Bhutan’s most
recognizable cultural icon perched 800m/2640ft up a seemingly sheer cliff.
Although it was tragically and mysteriously consumed by fire in April 1998 it has
now been restored to its former glory. It is believed that in the 8th century, the
great tantric master Guru Rimopche/ Padmasambhava (2nd Buddha) flew on the
back of a tigress to the site where the monastery now stands. (Five hours hike to
and fro, some gentle and some steep hike, some stony foot path and some good ones) If
you ride a horse upward it will cost extra US$25 per person which we will provide free of
cost.
Visit Farmhouse: Picturesque farm houses dot the valley amongst fields and hillsides. We
welcome you to enjoy the hospitality of the Paro farmers. Thrill yourself as the farmers
6
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
welcome you to their homes with genuine smiles. The two to three-storied Bhutanese farm
houses are handsome in appearance, with colorfully decorated outer walls and lintels, and
are traditionally built. A visit to a farm house gives an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of
a farming family. (If you take hot stone bath in the farm house it will cost extra US$25 per
person.)
Later stroll around the town and see how locals live. Overnight in Paro.
07 OCT 15: DEPART FROM PARO AIRPORT / BANGKOK
(B)
Early breakfast at the hotel and then drive to the airport. Your escort will assist you with exit
formalities and bid you farewell.
-------END OF SERVICES------
CHECK LISTS






Valid passport (valid for six months from the date of your trip)
One other picture ID, such as driver’s license (in case of emergency and for use as a
substitute of passport or incase of loss of your passport) Photocopy of passport page to
carry in wallet
Air tickets (Make a copy of flight tickets which may be helpful, in case of loss)
Visa Clearance (Make a copy of visa clearance which may be helpful, in case of
emergencies)
MasterCard, Visa Credit and Debit Cards are accepted in Bhutan. However travelers
cheques and some cash are highly recommended.
Mobile (if your cell phone is from CINGULLAR USA or ATNT (USA) operators then your
cell phone will work in Bhutan.)
WHAT TO BRING DURING THE TOUR IN BHUTAN
Warm Jackets with water proof or rain coats
Hiking shorts (for men) or skirt
Summer clothes as required in the plains of Bagdogra
Warm clothes for high altitude places such as in Sikkim and in Bhutan as well
Hiking/trekking boots
Socks for hiking boots
Sunscreen for lips and face
Sunglasses
Sneakers
Long and short T- shirts or cotton shirts
Sun Hats
Walking Sticks
Back pack or Suitcase
DRESS CODE FOR VISITING FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES AND TEMPLES IN
BHUTAN
7
Braga Travel Consulting – www.chinalife.com – email: bonniebraga@msn.com frances@bragatravelconsulting.com
stella @bragatravelconsulting.com Telephone: 001-305-3824294
Shirt(either half or full sleeve)
Full pants/long skirts
Any type of shoes with socks
No Hats, No Umbrella, No Slippers, No t-shirts, No short skirt and No half-pants
Photographs allowed in the courtyard only.
APPROXIMATE TEMPERATURE DURING YOUR VISIT
IN OCTOBER: MAX: 22.0 DEGREE CELSIUS
MIN: 10.0 DEGREE CELSIUS
Price per person twin / double occupancy minimum 2-4 persons USD5035.00 (including
airfare Delhi / Paro / Bangkok (USD850.00 economy class); single supplement USD1495.00;
Price per person twin / double occupancy minimum -10 persons USD4908.00 (including
airfare Delhi / Paro / Bangkok (USD850.00 economy class); single supplement USD1495.00;
Price includes: 5* hotels 6 nights with breakfast, 5 lunches and 6 dinners; English speaking
guide with private car and driver - Toyota Coach, Tucson, Santafe, Land Cruiser Prado,
entrance fees to sites mentioned, water in car, government royalties, visa fees.
Price does not include: international airfare, travel insurance (highly recommended), tips,
personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, etc.
Payments can be made by check, wire transfer, visa or mastercard – deposit of 20% upon
confirmation balance of payments up to 5 instalments until September 01, 2015.
Reminders: visa for India, visa for Bhutan (e-visa obtained by Braga Travel)
Yellow fever international certificate, travel insurance (please contact your travel agent).
Travel agency name / travel agent name _____________________
Travel insurance: __________ accept; __________ decline
I agree with BTC conditions:_______________________
Diet / health requirements: ___________________________________
Cancellation penalty: 90-61 days prior to trip – 10%
60-30 days prior to trip – 30%
29 -15 days prior to trip – 60%
14-7 days prior to trip – 75%
6-0 days prior to trip – 100%
8