15 Nov 2024

Rhododendron Flower Week (3-9) April 2025)

Eastern Bhutan Tour ,

Join us in a vibrant celebration of the breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and profound spiritual significance of the Brokpa community in Merak and Sakteng, nestled in Trashigang, Eastern Bhutan. This unique week-long festival invites you to immerse yourself in the traditions and way of life of the Brokpa people, promoting sustainable tourism while empowering the local community.

Taking place across the scenic landscapes of Merak and Sakteng, this event offers visitors an authentic experience of Bhutan’s eastern highlands, an area still largely untouched by mainstream tourism. Explore the picturesque villages, where time seems to stand still, and discover the beauty of a lifestyle deeply rooted in harmony with nature.

Through traditional music, dance, and rituals, as well as engaging activities and workshops, you’ll gain insights into the Brokpa culture and their deep connection with their environment. This is not just an opportunity to witness Bhutan’s unique culture but also a chance to support community-driven tourism initiatives that aim to preserve and celebrate this extraordinary heritage for generations to come.

Our expert specialists are ready to help you plan your next trip. You can call us on 00975-2-335423 (Call us today from 9am )

or complete the this form and we’ll contact you to begin planning your tailor-made trip.

MAKE AN ENQUIRY

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01. Meet at Guwahati Airport – Trasfer to Samdrup Jongkhar

At Guwahati Airport our Bhutanese Guide will meet you with Indian Car and driver. Then we will rive to Samdrup Jongkhar, the border town in South Eastern Bhutan. Transfer to Hotel and stroll around the town. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel Samdrup Jongkhar.

Day 02. Samdrup Jongkhar - Trashigang.

After our breakfast we will drive to Trashigang with Picnic lunch. At Mukazor, we will see the statues of Twelve Acts of Buddha. Lunch will have on the way. At Khaling, we will visit to Khaling Handoom Center, and Zangtopleri Lhakhang at Kanglung. Stroll around Trashigang town. Dinner and overnight stay at Trashigang Hotel.

Day 03. Trashigang -Sheytemi - Merak

After our breakfast, drive to Sheytemi, where you will enjoy with Rhidendron in full bloom. Walk around the Rhododendron Flower trees. We will have picnic lunch here at Sheytemi. Then we will drive to Merak. Dinner and overnight stay at Merak Farmhouse.

Day 04. Explore Merak Village.

Explore the Merak Village. You can make the hike to Jomo Kuenkhar – Abode of Ama Jomo. Or make a hike towards Nachungla pass (4153m).

Evening leisure at Merak Village. Dinner and Overnight stay at Merak Farmhouse.

Day 05. Merak - Sakteng

After early breakfast drive to Sakteng via Rangjung. Lunch will be served as picnic lunch or at local restaurant at Ranjung. Continue the journey to Sakteng. Evening leisure at Sakteng. Dinner and overnight stay at Sakteng Farmhouse.

Day 06. Explore Sakteng

Today we will make hike to Borangtse Lhakhang through Borangma Village. You see the village adorned with Rhododendren Flowers so beautifully. Lunch will be served at Farmhouse. Explore the villages. Dinner and overnight stay at Sakteng Farmhouse.

Note: After the dinner we will have Tshogchang Program – Tshogchang is a warm and meaningful way to welcome guests.

Day 07. Sakteng - Trashigang - Via Bidug and Bartsham Village

After breakfast, we will drive to Trashigang. Lunch will be served at Trashigang hotel. Then we will drive to Bartsham and visit Bartsham Lhakhang and see the Eastern villages. The drive back via Bidung Village. Evening stroll around Trashigang town. Dinner and overnight stay at Trashigang Hotel.

Day 08. Trashigang- Trashiyangtshi. (Day Excursion)

Today after breakfast, we will drive to Trashi Yangtshi. Visit Gomphu Kora Lhakhang and Chhorten Kora. Lunch will be served at Chhorten Kora as picic lunch. Then visit old Dzong of Trashiyangtshi. Then drive back to Trashigang. Dinner and overnight stay at Trashigang Hotel.

Day 09. Trashigang - Samdrup Jongkhar - India

After breakfast, drive to Samdrup Jongkhar. Lunch will be served on the way. Today only you will exit to India. Our guide and driver will bid you farewell at Samdrup Jongkhar gate. We wish you safe journey back to your country.

This is a sample itinerary, intended to give you a general idea of the likely trip schedule. Numerous factors such as weather, tour conditions, group options and the physical condition of participants, may dictate itinerary changes either before departure or while on tour. We reserve the right to change this schedule in the interest of our guests, safety, comfort and general well being.

Plan Your Trip

Start planning your tailor-made Dream Holiday to Bhutan – The Land of happiness!

In order to experience the best and rewarding fulfillment clients must plan in advance the different logistics that you have in your minds before actually venturing into the world of trips. You might have wishes and hopes for which you need to plan.

The following information will help you to plan your dream trip to Bhutan.

1. When and how to visit Bhutan?

Choose your traveling date like Arrival/Departure date. You also need to choose entry/depart Bhutan via AIR or LAND.

By Air: Druk Air, the national carriers is the only service operator in the kingdom and operates several flights per week from Bangkok (Thailand), Delhi & Kolkata (India) and Kathmandu (Nepal) to Paro (Bhutan). The Paro International Airport is located about an hour and a half drive from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.

Paro airport is daylight restricted, and the flights are totally dependent on the weather. As a result, sometimes flights are delayed. It is therefore a good idea to keep at least 24 hours of transit time for connecting flights out of Paro. You might also want to consider traveling on a non-restricted ticket so that if you miss a connecting flight, you can be rerouted or seated on the first available carrier.

Sometimes flights into Paro are disrupted because of unfavorable weather conditions. If this occurs, the flight will stop for the night at the transit airport. To be prepared, you may want to carry your essential personal items in your carry-on luggage.

By Land: Phuentsholing, a Bhutanese town in the southwest has road access to India. It is located about 170 km from the Indian domestic airport at Bagdogra, West Bengal. Phuentsholing is about 172 km from Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan and is about 6hours drive distance. And S/

2. What are your itineraries?

All the tours can be customized and extended as per our valued client’s requirements. There are sample itineraries for your kind reference and it will give you some general idea of the likely trip scheduled.

Complete the tour request form and submit it to us. Send us correct name list. We will send you the flight reservation status via email.

After confirming your reservation, we need the scanned copy of member’s passport.

Please be reminded:

1. To carry the passport that matches the passport details indicated in the visa application.

2. The passport should have their validity more than 6months from the date of your travel.

3. For all travelers flying via India to/from the kingdom of Bhutan, to have the Indian Visa prior to their departure from their country.

Please remit us full payments and send us the copy of remittance paper via email. Visa will not be accepted without full payment.

We will send you the flight ticket copy and Visa Clearance Copy prior to your departure to Bhutan via email. You need to print out and carry along with you.

Start packing and looking forward to have a memorable trip in the LandThunder Dragon, DrukYul.

NOTE:

For most tours the booking must be completed 8 weeks in advance, but during the festivals booking must be completed at least 12 weeks in advance. Especially during the festivals, it can be very difficult to get the accommodation and flight seats without advance bookings, as it is a peak season for the tourist visiting Bhutan.

Value-Added Option

hot-stone-bath

Hot stone bath (Dhotsho) is a traditional bath of Bhutan, where a tradition of heating up stones and then soaking in the water that is in turn heated by the stones. This is also a curative method and is used throughout the country We Bhutanese belief that this bath has so much of medicinal benefits. Some diseases are curable-like joint pains, hypertension, stomach disorder, arthritis and many other minor diseases. Especially for the old age, where we have lots of body pains, joints pains helps a lot by this Hot Stone Bath (Dhotsho).

I think, the minerals in the rocks have certain chemicals, which can cure certain disease of our body. Hot stone bath has no side effects. It is in its pure natural form. We can organize the hot stone bath during your stay in Bhutan.

The cost for experiencing this will be USD 20 per person.

weaving-in-bhutan

The Bhutanese textiles are rich, vibrant, and colorful and are a complex art form as well as an integral part of the Bhutanese culture. This Bhutan weaving experiences will give you an insight about the rich textiles in Bhutan. You can sit one of the handlooms of Bhutan and weave your self practically. We promise that you will really enjoy this with great satisfaction in your life.

We will also see or learn the natural coloring and dyeing. You can bring your own materials like handkerchief to dye and color. So visit Bhutan and experience it practically by yourself.

So to arrange this you need to pay extra payment of USD 50 per person.

cultural-program

Folk Performing Arts & Music in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
We have Cultural Program Performing groups, which they will perform like Traditional folk songs, dances and keeps original tunes and dances alive. Moreover, new choreography for some traditional and regional songs is sometimes developed.

The troupe also performs mask dances that have historical and spiritual significance.

The program will be about 1hr program and the cost will be USD 100/program. Usually we organize this in the evening before your dinner. But any time of the day can be organized.

 

hourse-riding-to-tigers-nest

Tiger’s Nest is most visited spot in Bhutan and it is much awaited by every tourist who visits Bhutan to climb to Tiger’s Nest.

It takes about 2 hrs 30mins up steep climb through the forest of pine, oak and Rhododendron. However you can ride the horse and climb till the Taktshang cafeteria.

The price will be approximately USD 12-15. So we can arrange the horses and let us know.

 

The above activities can be incorporated easily into your travel itinerary. However some activities need to pay some additional fees. So let us know which activities you would like to experiences so that we will include in your invoice.

Price Guides

Trip Length: 04 Nights/05 days in Bhutan

Costs
1pax = USD 940
2 Pax = USD 890 per person
3 Pax & above = USD 765 per person.

The above price is inclusive of the followings:

  1. Government Royalty USD 65/person/night
  2. All government Taxes.
  3. Lodging (3* hotel – Twin Sharing)
  4. Meals (Three Meals a day)
  5. Comfortable Land Transportation within Bhutan.
  6. Service of guides (English Speaking)
  7. Camping Equipment & Haulage of trekking tours.
  8. Visa Fee of USD 40/person
  9. Mineral Water
  10. Tea/coffee with snacks ever evening at hotel
  11. Trying and wearing of our Traditional Costumes and photo shoot.

The above price shall be exclusive of the following:

  1. Travel Insurance Coverage
  2. Medical Expenses
  3. Laundry
  4. Drinks
  5. Sleeping bags on treks.
  6. Tips to guide and driver, others
  7. Personal bills and others
  8. Airfare.

authentic-bhutan-travelSpeak to a specialist

Email: info@authenticbhutantours.com

Cell: 00975-17343434

Get inspired by the trip ideas on our website and in our brochures. Then speak to us for first-hand expert advice and if you’re ready, start planning your trip in detail.

Book This Trip

15 Nov 2024

Explore Eastern Bhutan: Samdrup Jongkhar Check Post Now Open to International Travelers

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International Travelers Now Welcomed at Samdrup Jongkhar Immigration Check Post

The Samdrup Jongkhar Immigration Check Post is now open to international tourists, providing a convenient entry point for those traveling from India’s northeastern states. This opening enhances access to Bhutan’s remote and less developed eastern region. Samdrup Jongkhar, located in southeastern Bhutan along the border with Assam, serves as a vital gateway for trade, security, tourism, and cultural exchange between Bhutan and India.

Eastern Bhutan is a hidden gem, known for its untouched beauty and cultural richness. The area features dramatic landscapes of rolling hills, dense forests, and towering cliffs, creating a mystical, timeless ambiance. In villages like Trashigang, Lhuentse, Trashiyangtse, and Mongar, ancient traditions thrive, and life flows at a tranquil, unhurried pace. The region’s charm is further enhanced by the warm hospitality of its locals.

The reopening of the Samdrup Jongkhar gate is expected to boost tourism and economic activities in eastern Bhutan, allowing travelers to experience the area’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery with fewer crowds. Plan your visit with us and discover the authentic culture, traditions, and serene beauty of Eastern Bhutan.

13 Sep 2024

Authentic Bhutan Tours: Exploring Solo or in Small Groups.

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Authentic Bhutan Tours is a boutique tour operator specializing in organizing smaller, personalized, and solo tours to Bhutan. With a commitment to providing meaningful, immersive travel experiences, the company focuses on offering custom-designed itineraries that align with the interests of individual travelers or small groups. Their approach emphasizes the unique charm of Bhutan’s culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, ensuring that each traveler’s journey is tailored to their needs and preferences.

Key Features of Authentic Bhutan Tours:

1. Tailored Itineraries for Solo and Small-Group Travelers

•       Authentic Bhutan Tours excels in curating unique, flexible travel experiences for solo or small groups. Their itineraries are crafted based on the specific interests of travelers, whether it’s trekking through the stunning Himalayas, exploring ancient monasteries, or immersing in Bhutanese festivals.
•       With a strong emphasis on customization, the operator allows travelers to adjust their plans on the go, providing a more intimate and spontaneous adventure.

2. Cultural Immersion and Spiritual Experiences

•       Solo and small-group travelers can enjoy authentic cultural experiences that go beyond the surface. Authentic Bhutan Tours arranges private visits to monasteries, offers interactions with monks, and even facilitates meditation retreats at sacred sites, allowing travelers to connect with Bhutan’s rich spiritual traditions.
•       They also provide access to local festivals and home visits, giving travelers the chance to experience Bhutanese life up close.

3. Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration

•       Authentic Bhutan Tours takes pride in offering journeys to remote, lesser-known parts of Bhutan that are rarely visited by larger tour groups. Solo travelers or small groups can visit remote temples, isolated villages, and untouched natural landscapes, gaining deeper insights into Bhutan’s pristine beauty and cultural richness.
•       These off-the-beaten-path explorations are ideal for those seeking solitude, adventure, and authentic connections with Bhutanese locals.

4. Highly Experienced Local Guides

•       Authentic Bhutan Tours employs knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about Bhutan’s history, culture, and environment. These guides offer personalized attention, enhancing the overall travel experience by sharing insider knowledge and unique stories about Bhutan.
•       They ensure that solo travelers feel safe, supported, and informed throughout their journey, making the trip both comfortable and enriching.

6. Flexible and Solo-Friendly Travel

•       For solo travelers, Authentic Bhutan Tours offers the ideal blend of independence and support. The company is highly responsive to the needs of solo adventurers, providing the freedom to explore Bhutan at one’s own pace while ensuring security and expert guidance.

6. Focus on Authenticity

•       As their name suggests, Authentic Bhutan Tours places a strong emphasis on offering truly authentic experiences. Whether it’s sharing a meal with a Bhutanese family, learning traditional crafts, or exploring untouched valleys, the company ensures that travelers leave with a genuine understanding and appreciation of Bhutan’s culture and way of life.

By catering specifically to solo and small-group travelers, Authentic Bhutan Tours delivers a travel experience that is personalized, meaningful, and aligned with Bhutan’s ethos of mindful, low-impact tourism. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural exploration, they provide the perfect balance of flexibility, authenticity, and support for an unforgettable journey through Bhutan.

13 Sep 2024

Advantages of Traveling to Bhutan in Small Groups or Solo.

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Traveling to Bhutan in smaller groups or as a solo traveler can offer several unique benefits:

  1. Personalized Experience
  •      More intimate experiences: Smaller groups allow for a more personalized itinerary, with the flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path locations or spend more time in areas that interest you.
  •      Customized tours: Solo travelers or smaller groups can easily customize their journey based on personal preferences, from trekking routes to spiritual experiences.
  1. Deeper Cultural Immersion
  •      Meaningful interactions: Engaging with locals, such as monks, farmers, or artisans, is easier in smaller groups. This leads to more intimate conversations and deeper insights into Bhutanese culture and lifestyle.
  •      Authentic experiences: Small groups often have access to unique cultural experiences, like private visits to monasteries or local festivals that may not be possible with large tour groups.
  1. Enhanced Spiritual and Nature Connection
  •      Tranquility and solitude: Bhutan is known for its spiritual ambiance and serene landscapes. Solo travelers or small groups can better enjoy the peace and solitude of Bhutan’s temples, monasteries, and pristine nature without the distraction of larger crowds.
  •      Mindful travel: With fewer people, there’s more opportunity to connect with Bhutan’s spiritual heritage, whether meditating in a monastery or hiking to sacred sites.
  1. Exclusive Access
  •      Access to remote areas: Some remote monasteries, villages, and hiking trails may only be accessible to smaller groups or individual travelers, offering a more exclusive and authentic experience.
  •      Flexible itineraries: Solo or small-group travelers have more flexibility in adjusting their plans based on weather conditions, festivals, or local recommendations.
  1. Enhanced Photography Opportunities
  •      Better photo opportunities: With fewer people, you can take your time capturing Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and cultural moments without the need to rush or compete for the best spots.
  1. Efficient Travel and Logistics
  •      Easier movement: Small groups can navigate Bhutan’s winding mountain roads more efficiently, minimizing wait times and maximizing sightseeing opportunities.
  •      Faster decision-making: With fewer people, there’s less need for coordination, allowing for quicker decisions on activities, meal stops, or spontaneous detours.

These factors make Bhutan especially appealing for solo adventurers or travelers in smaller groups who are seeking a more mindful, personal, and authentic travel experience.

On top o this, Authentic Bhutan Tours is a boutique tour operator specializing in organizing smaller, personalized, and solo tours to Bhutan. With a commitment to providing meaningful, immersive travel experiences, the company focuses on offering custom-designed itineraries that align with the interests of individual travelers or small groups. Our approach emphasizes the unique charm of Bhutan’s culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, ensuring that each traveler’s journey is tailored to their needs and preferences.

28 Aug 2024

Luxury in Bhutan: The Best High-End Resorts and Experiences.

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Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and spiritual tranquility. For discerning travelers, Bhutan presents an array of luxurious experiences and accommodations that harmonize with its pristine environment and deep-rooted traditions. Here’s a guide to the best high-end resorts and experiences in Bhutan.

  1. Amankora

Amankora is perhaps the most famous luxury brand in Bhutan, offering five lodges scattered across the country in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang. Each lodge is designed to reflect Bhutan’s architectural traditions while providing modern comforts. Guests can enjoy bespoke experiences such as private dining, guided hikes to remote monasteries, and traditional hot stone baths. The seamless service and serene environment make Amankora a top choice for luxury travelers.

  1. Six Senses Bhutan

Six Senses Bhutan offers a collection of five lodges, each in a unique location, allowing guests to experience different aspects of Bhutanese culture and landscape. The lodges are located in Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey, and Bumthang. Each lodge is distinct, yet they share a commitment to sustainability and wellness. Guests can indulge in personalized wellness programs, farm-to-table dining, and immersive cultural experiences, such as visits to local farms and ancient dzongs (fortresses).

  1. COMO Uma Paro & COMO Uma Punakha

COMO Uma Paro and COMO Uma Punakha are two luxury retreats that provide a gateway to Bhutan’s natural beauty and spiritual heart. COMO Uma Paro is nestled in a pine forest overlooking the Paro Valley, while COMO Uma Punakha is set in a lush valley near the Mo Chhu River. Both resorts offer guided cultural tours, wellness treatments, and adventure activities like hiking and archery. The cuisine is a highlight, with menus featuring organic ingredients and local flavors.

  1. Zhiwa Ling Heritage

Zhiwa Ling Heritage in Paro is the first Bhutanese-owned luxury hotel in the country, blending traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern amenities. The hotel is set on a 10-acre estate with panoramic views of the Paro Valley. Guests can experience Bhutanese culture through spiritual rituals at the hotel’s on-site temple, meditation sessions, and hot stone baths.

  1. Gangtey Lodge

Located in the remote Phobjikha Valley, Gangtey Lodge offers an intimate and luxurious retreat. The lodge overlooks the valley, which is a winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes. The architecture and interiors are inspired by Bhutanese farmhouse design, with cozy fireplaces and handcrafted furniture. Guests can enjoy activities such as crane-watching, nature walks, and visits to the nearby Gangtey Monastery. The lodge’s personalized service and connection to nature make it a standout destination.

  1. Le Méridien Thimphu.

Located in the heart of Bhutan’s capital, Le Méridien Thimphu is a sophisticated luxury hotel that blends contemporary design with Bhutanese cultural elements. The hotel offers spacious, elegantly designed rooms with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the hotel’s restaurants, which serve both local and international cuisine, or relax at the spa with traditional Bhutanese wellness treatments. The central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring Thimphu’s cultural landmarks, including the nearby Tashichho Dzong and Buddha Dordenma.

  1. Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront

Le Méridien Paro, Riverfront, is one of the most prominent luxury hotels in Bhutan, offering a perfect blend of modern elegance and Bhutanese charm. Situated along the banks of the Paro River, the hotel provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. The hotel’s design reflects the traditional Bhutanese architectural style, with contemporary interiors that offer a sense of tranquility and luxury.

The spacious rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the natural beauty of the Paro Valley. Guests can indulge in fine dining at the hotel’s restaurant, which offers a mix of Bhutanese, Asian, and international cuisines, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art spa, where guests can enjoy a range of treatments, including traditional Bhutanese therapies, designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.

Le Méridien Paro’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Bhutan’s most iconic sites, including the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), the National Museum of Bhutan, and the historic Paro Dzong.

  1. Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

Perched on a hilltop in the Neyphu Valley, the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is a unique wellness retreat that focuses on holistic healing and spiritual rejuvenation. This all-inclusive resort offers personalized wellness programs that incorporate traditional Bhutanese medicine, meditation, yoga, and spa treatments. The Sanctuary’s design reflects traditional Bhutanese architecture, with elegant suites offering sweeping views of the valley. Guests can participate in cultural activities such as Bhutanese cooking classes, guided nature walks, and visits to nearby monasteries, creating a deeply immersive and restorative experience.

  1. Termalinca Resort & Spa

Termalinca Resort & Spa, located on the outskirts of Thimphu, offers a serene and luxurious retreat in the midst of nature. The resort features beautifully appointed villas and suites that combine modern amenities with Bhutanese décor. Guests can enjoy a range of wellness treatments at the spa, including traditional hot stone baths and herbal therapies.

  1. Dhensa Boutique Resort

Situated in the picturesque Punakha Valley, Dhensa Boutique Resort is a tranquil haven that offers a blend of luxury and simplicity. The resort’s spacious suites are designed in a minimalist style, with large balconies offering stunning views of the valley. Dhensa focuses on providing a holistic experience, with wellness treatments, yoga sessions, and farm-to-table dining that uses fresh, organic ingredients. Guests can explore the nearby Punakha Dzong, take part in traditional Bhutanese rituals, or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.

Bhutan offers a unique luxury travel experience that combines high-end accommodations with cultural authenticity and natural beauty. Whether staying in an exclusive resort or embarking on a bespoke journey through the Himalayas, discerning travelers will find that luxury in Bhutan is defined by a deep connection to the land and its people, providing an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable.