Asia-Pacific
Bhutan Festivals
Enjoy the must-experience festivals of Bhutan that signify a new season or mark culturally significant occasions. Enjoy beautifully unique music, dance and social gaiety. Discover Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang, Central Bhutan with us!
Bhutan Tours to resume in 2024
Tour cost: $ 250 USD per person per night based on group size 3 or more persons plus sustainable development fee as imposed by the Royal Bhutan Government. Ask for details. Tour cost includes accommodation in 3 star Bhutanese hotels (upgrades available on request), transportation, entrance fees, all meals, and local throughout guide.
Prices includes:
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Road transportation in comfortable vans or micro-buses
- Travel with a licensed professional guide
- Sightseeing tours with entrance fees
- Camping equipment and haulage for treks
Airfare from Bangkok or Delhi additional. approx $ 900 USD. Air also available from Singapore and Kolkata
Suggested 10-day Itinerary
Day 1: Bangkok/Paro/Thimpu (L,D)
Morning flight into Paro, Bhutan from Bangkok or Delhi. On this flight, you can see breathtaking views of the Great Himalayas. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be welcomed to the Kingdom by your guide. Lunch served in Paro. After lunch drive to Thimphu 2 - 3 hours. The drive from Paro to Thimphu is spectacularly scenic. Magnificent monasteries and stupas in the valleys and mountaintops. Overnight Thimphu Hotel Pedling located in the center of town. Orientation talk and introduction video show on Bhutan with tea and snacks.
Day 2: Thimpu (B,L,D)
Full day of sightseeing. Some of the highlights of Thimphu include:
- Visit the weekly Thimphu market
- Change money at the Bhutan National Bank
- Purchase world's most beautiful postage stamps
- Visit the arts and crafts school and the Traditional Medicine Institute
- Visit Memorial Chorten to honour memory of Late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, popularly known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. A multi-storied stupa that will introduce you to the vitality of Tantric Buddhism.
- Observe traditional paper making from Daphnia and Edgeworthia
- Visit Botanical garden (Zoo) where one can see Yak and Takin, the National wild animal of Bhutan
- Drive up to viewpoint and take a hike beyond to see the clear picture of Thimphu Valley
- Downtown Thimphu on foot visiting Handicrafts Emporium and other Arts & Crafts stores. Buy stunning kiras which can be used and bed covers or wall decoration, jewelry's and many more
Day 3: Thimpu/Wangdi (B,L,D)
Morning sightseeing in Thimphu. Lunch and a 3-hour drive will take you across Dochula Pass (10,500 feet) to the valley of Wangdi Phodrang. Check in at Gangtey hotel located in a beautiful spot overlooking the whole Paro Valley.
Day 4: Excursion To Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley (B,L,D)
After breakfast drive to Gangtey and Phobjikha valley. Phobjikha valley has been declared as the first eco-tourism destination of Bhutan by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN). The valley falls under the Black Mountain Natural Park. Phobjikha valley is the winter home to rare and endangered black necked cranes (grus nigricllis), which migrate, in large flocks to Bhutan from Tibet & Sikang, Yunnan and Tonkin in eastern China. For centuries the cranes have captured the human imagination with their intelligence, poise, sociality, beauty and freedom, which have given rise to several myths, legends, folktales and songs. In 1998 there were about 250 cranes and the numbers are increasing. Although the cranes fly back to their summer homes in mid - late February, there may be a couple of birds that have not yet flown to their summer homes in Tibet and China. There are lots of other wild animals in the surrounding valleys like wild boar, barking deer, Himalayan black bear, red fox, leopard and many species of birds. Also included are visits to the Nature Education center, the carpet factory and the Sacred Gangtey Monastery, which dominates the valley. Overnight
Day 5: To Trongsa (B,L,D)
Tongsa is the ancestral home of Bhutan's Royal Family. Both the First and Second King ruled the Kingdom from this ancient seat. All the Kings of Bhutan has to become Tongsa Penlop (Honorary post of Governor) prior to being crowned as the Druk Gyalpo (King of Bhutan). Tongsa Dzong (fort), one of the largest in the country was first built is 1648 and later enlarged many times. Because of being situated on a highly commanding position on the only connecting route between the eastern and western sectors (where trail actually runs through the Dzong), the Tongsa Penlop was able to control the whole of eastern region very effectively for many centuries. Visit the ancient watch tower (Ta Dzong), which is situated just above the town. A half-day drive down of the town to till Kuenga Rabten, the Winter Palace of Second King, Jigme Wangchuck. The Palace is under the care of Special Commission for Cultural Affairs and it gives an intimate insight into the early days of Bhutanese Monarchy. Alongside the road are beautiful terraces of rice. We will continue south into the tropical area to watch for birds and some other wild animals like Golden Langurs. Overnight Trongsa
Day 6: Trongsa/Bumthang (Jakar) (B,L,D)
The drive to Bumthang takes 2-3 hrs. Tales of the great Guru Padmasambhava dominates this holy valley. View the JakarDzong "The Castle of White Bird". A stop will be made on the way in the Chumey Valley where one can see girls weaving Yatha the traditional woollen material used for different purpose on a traditional handloom. The finished products are all displayed in a shop and outside in open for sale. Lunch at the hotel. Overnight Jakar Village Lodge.
Day 7: Bumthang (B,L,D)
Different from all the other valleys in Bhutan, Bumthang is very spacious and open ranging in altitude from 2,600m to 4,000m. Bumthang is a heaven for hikers and trekkers, not to mention the numerous beautiful and important Buddhist monasteries and pilgrimage sites, making it the Cultural and Historic center of Bhutan. One could spend months exploring this fascinating valley. Almost every little valley or hill has a background of interesting myths and legends about Kings, Buddhist masters and Serpents. Bumthang is combined of four main valleys, Chumey, Tang, Ura and Choskhor (Jakar). Commonly known as Jakar valley where you can see a little bit of modern touch with Swiss Influences. Visits to the important cultural and historic sites in the special valley.
Day 8: Bumthang/Punakha (B,L,D)
Drive to Punakha. Overnight Zangdopelri Hotel.
Day 9: Punakha/Paro (B,L,D)
Punakha was the winter capital for over 300 years until the time of second King. Punakha Dzong, which dominates the whole area, was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel, and established the central monastic body with 600 monks. Today, Punakha is still the home for Je Khempo (Chief Abbot) and the central monastic body. Punakha Dzong is undergoing major re-construction after it was destroyed by fire in 1986. You can see the craftsman at work. It is one of the most impressive Dzongs in the country. Also drive through the Wangdi Valley to look for langurs, birds and other wildlife.In the afternoon drive to Paro. Overnight at Kychu Resort.
Day 10: Paro (B)
Morning optional trip to Taktsang Monastery viewpoint. Taktsang, meaning "Tiger's nest," is built around a cave in which Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhawa) mediated, clings seemingly impossible to a cliff of rock at 3,000 feet above the valley floor. For the local people it is a place of pilgrimage, but for a tourist, a hike up to the viewpoint opposite the monastery is exhausting, thrilling and mystical. The legend has it that Guru Rimpoche is said to have flown to the site of the monastery on the back of a tigress from Tibet and meditated in the cave there for three months. Although the main building of the temple was destroyed by fire on 19 April 1998, the hike up to the viewpoint is still worth a visit once in a lifetime. The reconstruction work is nearly complete. Options for walking or travel by horses is included. In the afternoon transfer to the airport for the departure flight.
Extensions in Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, Sikkim &Amp; Thailand are available on an individual basis
Additional Information
Access to Bhutan
Druk Air, the national carrier, flies into Paro from Bangkok (daily), Delhi (2 flights a week), Kolkata (4 flights a week), Singapore (2 flights a week), and Guwahait (three times a week). We will provide the air tickets on Druk Air as well as the arrangements for the necessary Pre-Visa requirements.
Entry Requirements
Any individual or group visiting Bhutan must obtain a Visa. Visa fee $ 40. It is necessary to submit the visa application two months in advance. Tours of Exploration will make the necessary arrangements to obtain your visa. Independent travel in Bhutan is forbidden.
Borneo Wildlife
Explore Borneo - an ideal island destination for nature lovers. Borneo is renowned for its rainforests that are home to a myriad of rare and endangered wildlife and plant species, along with an array of cultural groups whose traditions are rich. Let us connect you with the best that Borneo has to offer!
Borneo Wildlife Odyssey
Begin your discovery of Borneo - a nature lover's paradise - in Kota Kinabalu and Kinabalu National Park. Travel to Sandakan, Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Selingan Island and the Sakau Rainforest. Experience the varied and abundant flora and fauna found in this rich tropical ecosystem!
Cambodia Angkor Wat
Explore the 200 temples are scattered across 400 square kilometers just north of the town of Siem Reap, dating back as early as the 9th century! A truly unique experience - the recommended 3 days exploring this UNESCO world heritage site will keep you wanting to come back for more!
China cycle Yunnan (10 days)
Cycle along sections of Yunnan's ancient Horse Tea Trail up into the high altitude capital of Tibet. Visit Shangri La, Lijiang, Shaxi and Dali old towns. Step back in time in the ancient city of Shaxi. Learn about the ancient Tea Horse Trail. Cycle through remote rural landscapes and villages of China.
China Railroad to Tibet (11 days)
Start your journey in Beijing. Visit the most historically significant landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and The Great Wall. Sample exquisite local cuisine before boarding an overnight train to the Terracotta Warriors of Xian. End with Lhasa and the Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Lama.
China The Silk Road - Beijing to Tashkent
Tour Beijing before visiting the remarkable Terracotta Warriors. Along the China Silk Road, visit Xiahe and the Tibetan monastery at Labrang, the Buddhist frescos in the Mogao Caves, the serene 'Heaven Lake' deep in the Tian Shan mountains, and Kashgar's famous Sunday markets. Depart China over the Torugart Pass.
China Yunnan Province
Indulge in the striking landscape and culture of the Yunnan Province in Southwest China. Bordering Burma (Myanmar), Laos, Vietnam and four provinces of China including Tibet, results in a mosaic of 26 indigenous cultures. Visits to Dali, Lijiang & Shangrila are highlights.
India and Bhutan Treks
Trekking in the Himalayas offers unparalleled variety with low density and pristine opportunities for the active adventurer. Become immersed in the hauntingly mountain landscapes of India and Bhutan including - valley of the flowers, Ladakh, and the trans Bhutan trail. Treks between 3 and 21 days are offered. Pass rural villages linked only by footpath, and stay in tented camps, farmhouses and small local inns.
Indonesia Nature & Cultural Tours
We have extensive knowledge on travel in the Indonesian Archipelago and can assist with your customized touring options. Nature, cultural & scuba dive adventures in Bali, Java, Sumatra, Sulawasi, Komodo and Lombok Islands await you during this itinerary curated by Tours of Exploration.
Indonesia The Island of Bali
Enjoy the beaches, the breathtaking lakes and volcanoes of the eastern side of Bali. Enjoy sightseeing and shopping in a traditional village and Kehen Temple. Let yourself be pampered at a local spa, attend live traditional performances, and coast downhill while viewing the spectacular Balinese landscape by bike.
Japan Discovery
Discover Japan through this comprehensive tour experience. Experience Tokyo and the architecture, culinary, and culture of Edo. Visit the Shinto and Buddhist worship center of Nikko before viewing Mt Fuji. This tour contains the major highlights and also the unexpected beauty and charm of Japan.
Japan Experience
Tokyo's bright-shining neon lights are contrasted with the peace and tranquility of little-visited rural regions. This tour affords the opportunity to visit the major highlights and also uncover the unexpected charm and beauty of one of these rural areas, Hirado, offering a real insight into this fascinating country.
Laos Luang Prabang Explorer
Laos has become a must-visit destination after years of virtual isolation. Be mesmerized by the grandeur of the former royal capital at Luang Prabang - filled with old-world charm. Laos is easily combined with visits to Thailand (where you can travel down from the Mekong River), Angkor Wat and Vietnam.
Laos Trekking Adventure
The small, landlocked nation of Laos offers travelers an unmatched glimpse of the South East Asia charm. Expert local guides will enhance your journey along villages and trekking routes through our culturally and environmentally sensitive programs.
Myanmar Cultural Highlights with Ayerwaddy
Enjoy the Inle Lake Festival in Myanmar - a land of great beauty, whose cultures retain traditions held for millennium. The trip also includes the highlights of Yangon, Bagan, Mount Popa, and Mandalay. We have enjoyed a 20-years-and-counting partnership with our trustworthy Myanmar land operators!
Nepal and Tibet Rooftop of the World
Experience Tibet's past and present, witness the customs and rituals of Tibetan Buddhism, see the palaces, monasteries and temples of this fabled land while marveling at the majesty of this remote land in the heart of the Himalayas. Tour highlights include Kathmandu, Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse and Tsedang.
Nepal Trek and Safari
Marvel at the majestic peaks of the Himalaya dominate Nepal, a country of deep spirituality and diversity. Experience a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park, with the potential to see a Bengal tiger! You will easily become immersed in Nepal's incredible beauty during this tour.
Thailand & Laos: Bangkok to Luang Prabang
Begin this 12 day adventure in Northern Thailand, a place inspired by modern and ancient temple architecture. Experience traditional Lao life on a slow and gentle passage along the Mekong River. Become immersed in the people, sights, tastes and sounds of this region. Extensions to Cambodia will allow you to see Angkor Wat!
Thailand Classic Explorer
Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, known to local Thais as “Krung Thep” (translated,"the City of Angels") is one of the world’s most enticing cities. It carries the essence of the Thai spirit, and is a centre of rich culture, colour, and cuisine. Bangkok will provide an ideal jumping-off point for any Asian adventure!
Thailand Mae Hong Son Soft Adventure
North Thailand is blessed with year-round pleasant climate, rich historical and cultural heritage. Mae Hong Son is the gateway to the hill tribe cultures of the Hmong, Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Mien. Located amidst stunning mountain scenery stay in comfort at night and during the day travel by 4 X 4 and on foot.
Thailand Southern Islands, Reefs, Rivers & Jungles
Discover the picturesque tropical islands, coral reefs, and Khao Lak National Park where spectacular scenery includes splendid forested hills and valleys, sea cliffs, beaches, estuaries and mangroves. There's reason for Southern Thailand's rising star in the country's tourism industry.
Thailand, Cambodia & Laos World Heritage Sites
The World Heritage Sites in three Southeast Asian nations are included on this remarkable adventure curated by Tours of Exploration. The World Heritage Sites in Thailand, Cambodia and Laos are visited and experienced, including Ayutthaya, Angkor Wat & Luang Prabang.
Vietnam Classical Treasures
Marvelous Vietnam awaits! Discover the country's classic cultural and natural treasures on this expert-led adventure. Experience the highlights of Vietnam - Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta, to name a few.
Vietnam Culture & Culinary Adventure
Experience Vietnam's highlights, discover the rich culture and savour the varied tastes of this fascinating land. Travel from Northern misty mountain peaks into verdant rice paddies and southern deltas. Along route encounter white sandy coasts and emerald coloured waters.
Vietnam Cycle and Boat Adventure
A cycle and boat adventure through marvelous Vietnam like no other! Leaving from Hanoi, cycle through the beautiful Ninh Binh region and visit Cuc Phuong National Park. Discover the country's treasures on this expert-led adventure. Dramatic scenery, ancient history, pilgrimage sites and nature sanctuaries await!
Vietnam Paddle and Play
Start your adventure in Hanoi and meander on foot and rickshaw around the bustling old quarter. Bike through steep mountains, remote villages, fertile meadows. Kayak amongst rugged limestone cliffs that rise out of the turquoise sea. An 11-day adventure loaded with culture and nature, sure to satisfy your cravings.