A Buddhist Spiritual Center
In Bhutan, one of the last surviving Buddhist kingdoms, Buddhism is alive and well. Visitors to this spiritual land may feel as if they’ve been transported to a magical place. Throughout the country, prayer flags, monks, and the sounds of bells and gongs make up daily life, while Dzongs, stupas, and monasteries dating back to the 7th century dominate the land. The coun
try’s most famous monastery, perched more than 3,000 feet above the Paro Chhu, is known as Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest. The story of this site holds that the great Buddhist teacher, Padmasambhava, traveled through the Himalayas on the back of a flying tigress, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. Those that make the trek to Bhutan, inevitably make the climb to see this cliffside wonder, entering into their own sacred place along the way. It’s no coincidence then, with its deeply spiritual culture and temples and monasteries at every turn, that Bhutan is ranked among the happiest countries in the world. Bhutan’s Majestic and Preserved Wilderness
Thirty-five percent of Bhutan is covered in protected forests, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. This can largely be accredited to the country’s national religion, Buddhism, which highly values the sacredness of life. In this small, isolated country, high mountain peaks transition into lush conifer forests and eventually jungle terrain, creating a large-scale and highly diverse ecosystem that has helped give the country claim to being one of the top 10 biological hotspots in the world. The oldest protected area and Bhutan’s “Crown Jewel” is Royal Manas National Park. And it’s no surprise that Manas National Park is highly regarded in the country as it’s home to more than 365 species of birds, 900 types of plants and some of the most endangered animals on the planet, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, Himalayan black bear and the extremely rare golden langur. But Manas National Park is only one of the Bhutan’s seven national parks and sanctuaries. Others like Thrumshingla National Park are a bird watcher’s paradise while Jigmi Dorji National Park in the alpine region is known for its extensive trekking routes. Bhutan Rafting and Himalayan Adventures
Located along the southern slope of the eastern Himalaya, Bhutan’s tourism industry is in its infancy, making it a truly off-the-beaten-path destination. Those who make the trek to this mysterious country will find a wilderness that most of us can only imagine in our wildest dreams—dramatic mountains with Buddhist monasteries perched high in the cliffs, raging rivers that few have seen and deep jungle with exotic animals many have never even heard of. But it’s not just Bhutan’s extraordinary landscape and wildlife that leaves us speechless, it’s also the country’s Buddhist monasteries and temples at every turn that truly transport us into magical land. Our adventures in Bhutan allow us to experience everything this captivating country has to offer. We’ll raft the practically unknown Drangme Chhu and Mangde Chhu, explore some of the country’s unparalleled national parks and protected areas and travel to Bumthang, the spiritual center of Bhutan where we get to lose ourselves in several of the incredible monasteries and temples that make up so much of this sacred land. Not only will a trip to Bhutan stay in your soul and memory for a lifetime, but you’ll be among a small group of people that have traveled to this land of the unknown—true adventurers. Why Choose ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL for a Bhutan Adventure? For more than 12 years, ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL has led travelers of all ages and abilities to some of the most stunning locations on the planet. We thrive on creating adventures that take you away from the crowds to magical landscapes, rivers and coastlines. National Geographic Adventure, Outside and Sunset magazines have proclaimed ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL adventures as some of the "Best Trips on the Planet." Traveling to an unfamiliar country doesn't have to be challenging. With a combined 100 years of experience in the adventure travel industry, ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL staff of knowledgeable adventurers has taken out the guesswork and added our guarantee so you can have an incredible experience. A trip to Bhutan with ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL is a true adventure into the unknown. But as you travel through pristine wilderness, explore far-off monasteries and villages and raft some of the most isolated river canyons in the world you can be rest assured that you’ll be in good hands along the way. On top of huge thrills, we provide the best guide-to-guest ratio in the adventure travel business so you can feel at ease from the moment you step off the plane, to every new experience that awaits you on our Bhutan rafting and cultural adventures. Going above and beyond at any chance, our friendly guides will ensure your questions are answered and your concerns are given the personal attention you deserve, all while sharing their extensive knowledge of the landscape, wildlife and ecosystem. A trip to Bhutan with ADRIFT ADVENTURES NEPAL is an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Mission
By offering high school students the opportunity to experience new cultures and environments firsthand, Adrift Adventuress is an extension of the Society's mission to increase global understanding through exploration, geography, education, and research; and to inspire the next generation to care about our planet. For detailed information about our summer programs, tuition, and how to apply, visit our website at www.adriftadventure.com or give us a call at 977 9851004814
Company Overview
In the spirit of adventure and discovery that has Inspired Himalayas photographers, writers, and scientists over the years, Adrift Adventures Nepal, invites the next generation of explorers to join us in the field. Our summer expeditions go beyond just exploring great destinations. Students participate in an On Assignment project, get involved in local communities, and travel in the company of dynamic trip leaders and a Adrift Adventures Nepal expert. Destinations: South and Southeast Asia, Bhutan, Nepal
Activities: Cultural Exploration, Family
Difficulty Rating: Comfort Rating: Exclusivity Rating:
our Description
Journey to Nepal and Bhutan and discover cultures that are off-the-beaten path. Walk on the wild side in Nepal, tracking tigers from atop an elephant, and delight your senses on this journey to the heart of the subcontinent. Bhutan, the “Land of Dragons,” is known for its high valleys linked to India by the scenic plains. Here, the people still wear their traditional dress as they perform a wonderful Bhutanese cultural dance for your enjoyment. This is a journey that will overwhelm you with its mystical, cultural and historical relevance. Visit the Temple of the Living Goddess, Durbar Square, with its array of temples, and Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient palace of the Nepalese Royalty
Enjoy a full day hike to the Sarangkot hill (5220 feet.) and take in the view of the Annapurna range and the Machapuchhre peak as well as Phewa Lake and the entire Pokhara valley
Drive through Chitwan National Park in 4WD jeeps to look for tigers, the great one-horned rhinoceros, leopards, bears as well as deer, monkeys, birds and more
Discover the arts at the Handicraft Center and see handwoven Tibetan carpets be made and molding of metal statues
Visit the newly built “Druk Wangyal Khangzang Chortens”, a unique cluster of 108 Namgyel Khangzang Chortens that spiral up to a main monument Chorten
Explore the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman.” explore the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman”
Take a day hike to the enchanting “Tiger’s Nest,” the Taktsang Monastery viewpoint, built around a cave where the Guru Rimpoche meditated and clinging to a cliff rock at 3,000 feet above the valley
Itinerary
DAY 1 Arrive Kathmandu
You are met upon arrival and taken to your hotel. This afternoon tour Kathmandu City, the capital of Nepal. Visit the temple of the Living Goddess, Durbar Square, with its array of temples, and Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient palace of the Nepalese Royalty. Travel to Swayambhunath, a 2000-year-old Buddhist Stupa, with a lofty conical spire that is topped with a pinnacle of copper gilt. Hotel Dwarika, Kathmandu
DAY 2 Kathmandu
Today you travel south to the typical Newar village of Bungmati. Founded in 7th century AD, Bungmati is revered as the home of Matsyendranath, the God of rain and compassion, worshipped equally by Hindus and Buddhists. Your next stop is to visit Khokana, a small 7th century Newar village that keeps itself aloof from all modern civilization. Exploring Bungmati and Khokana will give you an intimate picture of the primitive way of life that still exists in Nepal today. Next, drive up 5,500 feet to explore Dhulikhel, for its famous views of the Himalayan ranges. Tonight enjoy a Nepalese folkloric show followed by a traditional dinner. (B,L)
Hotel Dwarika, Kathmandu
DAY 3 Pokhara City
This morning fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara City, in the picturesque Pokhara Valley, and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon enjoy a tour of the city with its snow fed lakes and views of the snow-clad Great Himalayas. See the Bindhyavasani Temple and take a one-hour boat cruise on deep-blue Phewa Lake.(B)
Shangri-La Village Resort, Nepal
DAY 4 Sarangkot
Today enjoy a full day hike to the Sarangkot hill (5220 feet.). From the hilltop tower enjoy the view of the Annapurna range and the Machapuchhre peak, as well as Phewa Lake and the entire Pokhara valley.(B,L)
Shangri-La Village Resort, Nepal
DAY 5 Chitwan National Park
Drive to Chitwan National Park to board a 4WD jeep to continue into the heart of the jungle. Drive through the forest, deep inside the jungle to look for tiger, the great one-horned rhinoceros, leopard, bear, as well as deer, monkeys, birds and more. Arrive at “Tiger Tops”, one of the finest wildlife reserves in Asia, for your 2-night stay. This afternoon visit the Elephant Stable to learn about the Asian elephant, before taking an Elephant Safari- a memorable guided trek through the jungle. Stay the next two nights at Nepal’s most renowned pioneer wildlife safari lodge.(B,L,D)
Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Nepal
DAY 6 Chitwan National Park
Start your day with an early morning Jungle or Nature walk with an experienced naturalist to teach you about Chitwan’s flora and fauna. Next, take an open-air Jeep Safari for more amazing wildlife viewing. The afternoon is free to relax or take another Elephant back safari.(B,L,D)
Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Nepal
DAY 7 Chitwan National Park, Kathmandu Patan City
Enjoy another morning Nature walk or elephant safari before driving to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. This afternoon tour Patan City, built in 3rd century AD by Emperor Ashoka, and enclosed within four stupas. Known as the city of fine arts, see Patan’s Durbar Square, the bronze collection in Patan Durbar, the Krishna temple built by King Siddhi Narsingh Malla, and see Mahaboudha Temple. Next, visit Later you have the privilege of visiting a Nepalese Home. (B,D)
Hotel Dwarika, Bhutan
DAY 8
Thimphu
Start today with a breathtaking flight over the great peaks of the majestic Himalayas into the Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan. Arrive at Paro airport, then drive through spectacular mountain scenery and serene countryside to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Sandwiched in the heart of the Himalayas, Thimphu is a small, charming capital city. All the buildings are constructed and painted in the traditional Bhutanese style. Visit the Memorial Chorten, built in the loving memory of their late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, it has a multi-storied Stupa and will provide you with rare insight into Buddhist philosophy. (B)
Hotel Taj Tashi, Bhutan
DAY 9 Thimphu
This morning take a hike to either Tango or Cheri Goemba. Later drive to the BBS Tower viewpoint in Sangaygang. Visit the Mini Zoo to see a takin, the national animal of Bhutan, the National Library, with its vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts; and the Arts and Crafts School to see young children learning the ancient craft of painting.(B)
Hotel Taj Tashi, Bhutan
DAY 10
Thimphu to Punakha
Today drive to Punakha, en route stopping at Dochula Pass (10,500 ft.) for of one of Bhutan’s most breathtaking views - a plethora of colorful rhododendron blossoms and soft green wild herbs and forest trees dot a canvas of alpine snow. Visit the newly built “Druk Wangyal Khangzang Chortens”, a unique cluster of 108 Namgyel Khangzang Chortens that spiral up to a main monument Chorten. These chortens (the Tibetan term for stupas), are a new landmark for travelers as they cross Dochula into the interior of the country. Descend into Punakha, nestled in a fertile valley, it was once Bhutan’s winter capital because of its more temperate climate.(B,D)
Zangtopelri Hotel, Bhutan
DAY 11 Punakha to Paro
Enroute to Paro, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 as both the religious and the administrative center of the country. Next, explore the sacred Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman.” It is believed that childless women who visit the temple will conceive after receiving “wang”(blessing). Next drive through the Wangdue Valley and pass by Simtokha Dzong, built in 1629 as a fortress, today it is a theological university.(B)
Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Bhutan
DAY 12 Paro
This morning take a day hike to the enchanting “Tiger’s Nest”, the Taktsang Monastery viewpoint. Built around a cave where the Guru Rimpoche meditated, this monastery seems to cling impossibly to a cliff of rock at 3,000 feet above the valley floor. The hike is challenging but thrilling and mystical. And although the main building was destroyed by fire in 1998, it was reconstructed in 2000. Later drive to see the old ruined fortress of Drukgyel Dzong, see Kyichu Lhakhang (built in 659) and Satsam Chorten. Visit Ta Dzong’s National Museum with its collection of ancient Thangkha paintings, textiles and weapons; and explore Rinpung Dzong, the Fortress of the Heap of Jewels, one of the most celebrated Dzongs in Bhutan.(B)
Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Bhutan
DAY 13 Depart Paro
Today you are transferred to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination.(B)
ricing Information
December 31, 2013
From $ Please ask per person double occupancy. From $0000 single room supplement. Journey Includes
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
All transfers and fully guided daily sightseeing provided by a private deluxe A/C vehicle
Local English-speaking guide for sightseeing in each city
Entrance fees per final scheduled itinerary
Airport porterage, where available (2 bags per person)
Local taxes
Travco Assist (Medical Travel Assistance Plan)
All prices are in US dollars and do not include international airfare, unless otherwise noted.
