Indian sub-continent contd… India - Luxury Bhutan Itinerary

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54 BHUTAN Glimpses of Bhutan This remote Himalayan Kingdom retains a cultural integrity untainted by the outside world. Discover this land of striking mountain vistas and ancient Buddhist monasteries whilst enjoying the comforts of our selection of unique luxury hideaways. 1 Delhi 1 night Thimpu 2 nights Punakha 1 night Paro 3 nights Delhi 1 night 1 Uma Paro DAY 1 Overnight Jet Airways ight from Heathrow to Delhi. DAY 2 On arrival transfer to the beautiful and historic Imperial DAY 6 Visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the Tailor Made Tailor made extensions in India can be arranged to suit your requirements. Hotel for an overnight stay. DAY 3 Transfer to the airport for your early morning Druk Air ight to Paro. This ight into the Himalayas reveals breathtaking views of the world's highest peaks, taking you right into the Dragon Kingdom's cloud scrapping airstrip at Paro, located at an altitude of 7,000 feet. On arrival drive to the capital Thimpu and the Taj Tashi hotel for a two night stay, where spacious rooms capture the essence of Bhutanese art and architecture in a contemporary setting (approx. 1½ hours drive). DAY 4 Today begins with a visit to Trashichhodzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery which houses most of the Government's oce and King's Throne room and to the National Library where there is an extensive collection of Buddhist literature. Continue on to the National Memorial Chorten, a landmark originally envisaged by Bhutan's third king, who wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. It was nished after his death and now also serves as his memorial. You will also have a chance to visit handicraft shops, which oer a wide range of goods including the exquisitely woven textiles for which Bhutan is famous. DAY 5 After breakfast drive to Punakha (approx. 3 hours). En route visit Wangdiphodrang, the last town on the highway before entering central Bhutan. The Dzong, built during the 17th Century, played a critical role in unifying the western, central and southern Bhutanese districts. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Tonight you will stay at Amankora Punakha with just eight suites, located in three rammed-earth dwellings, situated in an orange orchard with views across the rice elds and back up the Punakha Valley. Suites are individually heated during the cooler winter months and airconditioned in the summer. junction of two rivers, originally the capital of Bhutan until 1955. It still serves as the winter residence of the monk body. This fortress has withstood damage from re, earthquake and ood. Return to Amankora for lunch before driving to Paro (approximately 2½ hours). On the way you will visit a traditional Bhutanese Farm House which oers an insight into the lifestyle of local people and their culture. Upon arrival in Paro check in to Uma Paro which oers ve star comfort and singular style in this wildly beautiful Himalayan Kingdom. You will spend three nights here. DAY 7 TO DAY 8 Early morning departure for a fascinating and rewarding day of sightseeing, starting with the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, from where the Bhutanese repelled several invading Tibetan armies during the 17th Century. Then onto the famous Taktsang Monastery, it is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery hence it is called Tigers Nest'. Some walking is required and the round trip will take about ve hours. Later, visit two more of the region's temples. DAY 9 Morning transfer to the airport for your ight to Delhi. This afternoon enjoy a tour of Imperial Delhi. Overnight at The Imperial. DAY 10 Morning transfer to the airport for your Jet Airways ight to Heathrow arriving later the same day. Your holiday includes: Breakfast in Delhi; breakfast, lunch and dinner whilst in Bhutan; airconditioned car with English speaking guide from arrival to departure in Bhutan plus sightseeing as described. Departures: Wed and Sat, other days are available but additional nights in Delhi or Paro may be necessary. NB: As you are at altitude please remember you may tire quicker. Not recommended for those with walking, blood pressure or breathing difculties. call kuoni 01306 747001 www.kuoni.co.uk