SPECIAL NOTE: Bhutan is an interesting, unusual and remote destination, undeveloped by Western standards. The accommodations maybe rustic or spartan, but are the best available. (See the Accommodations section for more details.) The food is simple and the weather is unpredictable and can vary greatly from one day to the next. The conservative lifestyle and culture are pervasive and may effect scheduling, and the order of events and inclusions may change.

DAYS 1 – 3

Arrive in Bangkok on Day 2. This bustling capital city will enthrall your senses with its pulsing activity, delicious cuisine and architectural treasures. There are countless temples, palaces, stupas, lively markets and shopping for you to explore during your time in Bangkok, a city both ancient and modern. 

Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok

DAYS 4 & 5

Thimphu is a small, charming capital city in the heart of the Himalayas. On the afternoon of Day 4, visit the memorial to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, a traditional Bhutanese stupa, also known as a chorten. The Memorial Chorten is an impressive monument with golden spires, tinkling bells, and an endless procession of elderly people circling around it paying homage. In the evening you will drive past the Tashichhodzong, a Buddhist monastery called the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” first constructed in 1641. On Day 5, enjoy a special visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, which teaches 13 traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, and observe the students practicing their crafts. Then visit the Textile & Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan’s living traditions. In the evening witness a special performance of Bhutanese folk music and dancing. 

Taj Tashi, Thimphu

DAY 6

Drive through the 10,500-foot-high Dochu La Pass which reveals a dramatic view of the mountain ranges in the distance. In Punakha you’ll visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 as the religious and administrative center of the region, and Khamsum Yulley Narngyal Chorten, a newly built stupa. Then see the Punakha Dzong, one of the most historic dzongs in the country, located in the confluence of two rivers. In the afternoon, stroll around the town’s main street, shops and local markets. 

Puna Tshangchu Cottage, Punakha

DAYS 7 & 8

Paro lies in a beautiful valley with a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the National Museum. Here you will see Rinpung Dzong, “The Fortress of the Heap of Jewels” built in 1646 on a hill above the town, and Ta Dzong, the watchtower built to overlook it. Ta Dzong now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, paintings, coins, handicrafts and a small natural history collection. Enjoy a morning excursion to Taksang Monastery, perched on the side of a high cliff. Taksang is the most famous monastery of Bhutan and the most sacred; the Bhutanese pilgrimage here once during their lifetime. 

Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Paro

DAYS 9 & 10

On Day 9, fly from Paro to Bagdogra and then continue by land to Darjeeling. The following day, take an early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the Ghoom Buddhist Monastery. Take a tour of Darjeeling and see the Himalayan Institute of Mountaineering, Zoological Gardens, Tibetan Refugee Center and the Zoo. After lunch visit a tea estate to see how tea is grown and produced, and enjoy a private tasting of the estate’s finest teas. In the evening you will be a guest at a native cultural dance and music program. 

New Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling

DAYS 11 & 12

The drive from Darjeeling to Gangtok in Sikkim is exhilarating, through green forests and picturesque landscapes, through the Tea Gardens, along the Teesta River. Perched at a height of 5,500 feet, Gangtok contains approximately 200 monasteries—oases of serenity and repositories of centuries-old wisdom. Gangtok is home to many different cultures and friendly people, as well as a myriad species of plants, flowers, birds and animals. Take in the unique atmosphere of this capital city or visit the Royal Chapel, The Deer Park, or the Sikkim Government Handicraft and Training. Visit the Rumtek Monastery, the Institute of Tibetology, the Enchley Monastery, Handicraft Center and a bazaar. 

Nor-Khill Hotel, Gangtok

DAYS 13 & 14

Nestled in the West Bengal Himalayas at 4,100 feet, Kalimpong features scenic views of mighty mountain peaks, lovely historic houses, two monasteries and two storied entwining rivers, the Rangeet and the Teesta. After lunch visit the Gandhi Ashram School where you will listen to the children playing music. After breakfast on Day 14, depart for a sightseeing tour of Kalimpong town, including Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery and the Lepcha Museum. The Lepchas are the indigenous people of the area, now a minority. The museum showcases the Lepcha culture and displays their musical instruments, manuscripts, tools and other artifacts of the culture of this vanishing tribe. In the afternoon you can stroll around a local bazaar for some shopping and people watching, then end the day with a visit to Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery to witness monks praying. 

Silver Oaks Hotel, Kalimpong

DAY 15

Visit the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, opened in 1941 for the protection of the area’s wildlife, particularly the single-horned rhinos. Royal Bengal Tigers, wild elephants, swamp deer, hog deer, wild pigs, bison and pea fowl can also be found here, as well as many birds: hornbills, racket-tailed drongo, paradise flycatcher and maybe even the Bengal Florican. 

Sinclairs Retreat, Chalsa

DAYS 16 & 17

After breakfast you will drive from Chalsa to Bagdogra and then you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to New Delhi. On Day 17, you’ll be escorted on a morning tour of the city. Highlights will include Qutb Minar, the world’s tallest free-standing minaret tower, dating back to the 12th century; the mausoleum of Emperor Humayun, an excellent specimen of early Mughal architecture; and the imposing modern Lakshminarayan Temple. Then you’ll drive past the India Gate, a moving war memorial dedicated to fallen Indian soldiers; the president’s residence; the parliament house and the Secretariat buildings — an interesting blend of Victorian and modern architecture. Afternoon sightseeing will include the highlights of Old Dehli: the magnificent Red Fort; Raj Ghat, memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Then stroll through Chandni Chowk to savor the ambience of an oriental bazaar. 

Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

DAY 18

In the early morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

SPECIAL NOTE: Bhutan is an interesting, unusual and remote destination, undeveloped by Western standards. The accommodations maybe rustic or spartan, but are the best available. (See the Accommodations section for more details.) The food is simple and the weather is unpredictable and can vary greatly from one day to the next. The conservative lifestyle and culture are pervasive and may effect scheduling, and the order of events and inclusions may change.

DAYS 1 – 3

Arrive in Bangkok on Day 2. This bustling capital city will enthrall your senses with its pulsing activity, delicious cuisine and architectural treasures. There are countless temples, palaces, stupas, lively markets and shopping for you to explore during your time in Bangkok, a city both ancient and modern. 
Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok

DAYS 4 & 5

Thimphu is a small, charming capital city in the heart of the Himalayas. On the afternoon of Day 4, visit the memorial to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, a traditional Bhutanese stupa, also known as a chorten. The Memorial Chorten is an impressive monument with golden spires, tinkling bells, and an endless procession of elderly people circling around it paying homage. In the evening you will drive past the Tashichhodzong, a Buddhist monastery called the “Fortress of the Glorious Religion,” first constructed in 1641. On Day 5, enjoy a special visit to the Institute for Zorig Chusum, which teaches 13 traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, and observe the students practicing their crafts. Then visit the Textile & Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating testimony of Bhutan’s living traditions. In the evening witness a special performance of Bhutanese folk music and dancing. 
Taj Tashi, Thimphu

DAY 6

Drive through the 10,500-foot-high Dochu La Pass which reveals a dramatic view of the mountain ranges in the distance. In Punakha you’ll visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 as the religious and administrative center of the region, and Khamsum Yulley Narngyal Chorten, a newly built stupa. Then see the Punakha Dzong, one of the most historic dzongs in the country, located in the confluence of two rivers. In the afternoon, stroll around the town’s main street, shops and local markets. 
Puna Tshangchu Cottage, Punakha

DAYS 7 & 8

Paro lies in a beautiful valley with a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, as well as the National Museum. Here you will see Rinpung Dzong, “The Fortress of the Heap of Jewels” built in 1646 on a hill above the town, and Ta Dzong, the watchtower built to overlook it. Ta Dzong now holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, paintings, coins, handicrafts and a small natural history collection. Enjoy a morning excursion to Taksang Monastery, perched on the side of a high cliff. Taksang is the most famous monastery of Bhutan and the most sacred; the Bhutanese pilgrimage here once during their lifetime. 
Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Paro

DAYS 9 & 10

On Day 9, fly from Paro to Bagdogra and then continue by land to Darjeeling. The following day, take an early morning excursion to Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Himalayas, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the Ghoom Buddhist Monastery. Take a tour of Darjeeling and see the Himalayan Institute of Mountaineering, Zoological Gardens, Tibetan Refugee Center and the Zoo. After lunch visit a tea estate to see how tea is grown and produced, and enjoy a private tasting of the estate’s finest teas. In the evening you will be a guest at a native cultural dance and music program. 
New Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling

DAYS 11 & 12

The drive from Darjeeling to Gangtok in Sikkim is exhilarating, through green forests and picturesque landscapes, through the Tea Gardens, along the Teesta River. Perched at a height of 5,500 feet, Gangtok contains approximately 200 monasteries—oases of serenity and repositories of centuries-old wisdom. Gangtok is home to many different cultures and friendly people, as well as a myriad species of plants, flowers, birds and animals. Take in the unique atmosphere of this capital city or visit the Royal Chapel, The Deer Park, or the Sikkim Government Handicraft and Training. Visit the Rumtek Monastery, the Institute of Tibetology, the Enchley Monastery, Handicraft Center and a bazaar. 
Nor-Khill Hotel, Gangtok

DAYS 13 & 14

Nestled in the West Bengal Himalayas at 4,100 feet, Kalimpong features scenic views of mighty mountain peaks, lovely historic houses, two monasteries and two storied entwining rivers, the Rangeet and the Teesta. After lunch visit the Gandhi Ashram School where you will listen to the children playing music. After breakfast on Day 14, depart for a sightseeing tour of Kalimpong town, including Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery and the Lepcha Museum. The Lepchas are the indigenous people of the area, now a minority. The museum showcases the Lepcha culture and displays their musical instruments, manuscripts, tools and other artifacts of the culture of this vanishing tribe. In the afternoon you can stroll around a local bazaar for some shopping and people watching, then end the day with a visit to Zang Do Phelri Phobrang Monastery to witness monks praying. 
Silver Oaks Hotel, Kalimpong

DAY 15

Visit the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, opened in 1941 for the protection of the area’s wildlife, particularly the single-horned rhinos. Royal Bengal Tigers, wild elephants, swamp deer, hog deer, wild pigs, bison and pea fowl can also be found here, as well as many birds: hornbills, racket-tailed drongo, paradise flycatcher and maybe even the Bengal Florican. 
Sinclairs Retreat, Chalsa

DAYS 16 & 17

After breakfast you will drive from Chalsa to Bagdogra and then you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to New Delhi. On Day 17, you’ll be escorted on a morning tour of the city. Highlights will include Qutb Minar, the world’s tallest free-standing minaret tower, dating back to the 12th century; the mausoleum of Emperor Humayun, an excellent specimen of early Mughal architecture; and the imposing modern Lakshminarayan Temple. Then you’ll drive past the India Gate, a moving war memorial dedicated to fallen Indian soldiers; the president’s residence; the parliament house and the Secretariat buildings — an interesting blend of Victorian and modern architecture. Afternoon sightseeing will include the highlights of Old Dehli: the magnificent Red Fort; Raj Ghat, memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Then stroll through Chandni Chowk to savor the ambience of an oriental bazaar. 
Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

DAY 18

In the early morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the Shangri-La Hotel is set in beautiful tropical gardens and enjoys convenient access to the central business and shopping districts. The five-star deluxe hotel boasts unrivaled services in an elegant and exotic setting. There are nine Asian and International restaurants that await you. The recreation and leisure facilities include a free‐form outdoor pool, fully equipped gymnasium, tennis courts, heath club with massage, two squash courts, sauna, steam bath and jacuzzi.

Travcoa has reserved deluxe guest rooms in the Krungthep Wing—spacious and well-appointed, each with private balconies providing full panoramas of the famous Chao Phraya River. Your room amenities include a mini bar, satellite TV, internet access, coffee/tea maker, bathrobe & slippers, in-room safe and hairdryer. You also have a separate entrance and reception with access a private pool and the Riverside Lounge with complimentary beverages throughout the day.

Taj Tashi
Thimphu, Bhutan

Set in the heart of the Thimphu Valley, the Taj Tashi, is a blend of Bhutan’s Dzong architecture and modern design. While enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains that rise above the Thimphu valley, guests can sample Bhutan’s fiery cuisine, and gaze at the mesmerizing prayer wheels through its panoramic windows. Other warm and invigorating features at the hotel include an indoor heated swimming pool, fitness center and the elaborate Taj Spa, with its special “Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath.”

Adorned with classical hand-drawn Buddhist murals, the 66 elegant guestrooms are adorned with swirls of hand-painted murals of clouds (a recurring motif in Bhutanese art), and take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Elegant, expansive and luxuriously appointed, these spacious rooms with large bathrooms afford guests tantalizing views of the pine-topped mountains. Accompanying bathrooms feature fine fittings and amenities like floor warmers and bath-towel heaters.

Puna Tshangchu Cottage
Punakha, Bhutan

The Puna Tshangchu Cottage is a blend of luxury and tradition. Situated at the bank of Puna Tshangchu River with fascinating views, the hotel has a traditional Bhutanese design as its external structure. The restaurant and bar serves both continental and Bhutanese dishes with range of spirits and wine. All the staff are trained to ensure top quality service—one of the trademarks of this hotel.

Each of the 22 elegant large rooms are modern and well appointed. Amenities include an attached bath with running hot and cold water, IDD phone and TV.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel
Paro, Bhutan

The 45-room Zhiwa Ling combines the sensibilities of a fine Bhutanese guesthouse with 21st Century technology. Envisioned and created by a local Bhutanese company, the hotel’s elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices and masterful stonework coexist beautifully with cutting-edge telecommunication systems and Swedish under-floor heating.

The spa offers all the amenities of a modern fitness center—sauna, steam room, gym as well as a traditional Bhutanese outdoor hot-stone bath. There is a Business Center, and a Tea House, a Meditation House and a lounge. One restaurant specializes in contemporary international cuisine, the other classic Bhutanese dishes.

Honoring the spiritual heritage of this ancient Buddhist kingdom, a temple has been built into the second floor of the hotel, made with 450-year-old timbers from the famous Gangtey Monastery, the crowning glory of this new ten-acre cultural landmark in the quiet Paro Valley where Zhiwa Ling fully lives up to its name: Place of Peace.

Your Magnolia Junior Suite has splendid views all around. There is a sitting area with leather sofas and a private balcony. All these suites are located on the ground floor or the first floors of the cottage buildings. Room facilities include WI FI Internet connection, in-room safe, mini bar, Cable TV with DVD player, Room service and a tea/coffee maker.

New Elgin Hotel
Darjeeling, India

A silken Khada is draped around your neck as a traditional Himalayan welcome when you enter the Elgin. The phrase “old world charm” is a palpable feeling in this quaint and charming 120-year-old residence, reminiscent of the heydays of the Raj. Here history surrounds you—the Burma teak furniture, oak floor boards and paneling, the crackling log fireplaces, the candle-lit dining tables. Experience the same style of life as the sophisticated elite who have enjoyed The Elgin’s hospitality from the time of its first owner, the Maharaja of Cooch Behar.

Features of the hotel include a game room, lounge area and a restaurant and bar. The hotel also offers Laundry and dry cleaning services.

Relax in one of the 30 heritage rooms of the mansion. Each room has a bathroom with tub, room heater, TV with satellite channels, mini bar, coffee/tea maker and room service.

Nor-Khill Hotel
Gangtok, Sikkim

Nor-Khill in Sikkimese means “House of Jewels.” The King of Sikkim built the Nor-Khill Hotel in 1932 as his Royal Guest House, where he received and entertained Heads of State and dignitaries. The imposing lobby is resplendent in the bright and bold colors of the folk art that adorn its walls. From the lucky design motifs depicting dragons and flame symbols, to the thankas (or wall hangings), the ornate bachu and chocsue (or center and side tables), the regal look of yester year has been proudly preserved. The Jewel Garden has rare varieties of orchids, shrubs and roses.

The hotel has 32 rooms, each of which is quiet, elegant and traditional. All the rooms are spacious and over look Mount Kanchenjungha and the Himalayas. Room features include international dialing telephone, TV, room service and a laundry service.

Silver Oaks Hotel
Kalimpong, Sikkim

A grand colonial structure in Kalimpong, the Hotel Silver Oaks offers a wonderful view of the snow clad Kanchenjunga. The landscaped gardens surrounding the sloping roofed, glass paned grand building that houses the hotel itself is a feast for the eyes.

Hotel features include a game room, small business center, and a multi-cuisine restaurant with wooden flooring, an old fireplace and a piano offers a cozy ambience and an amazing view.

The elegant 25 rooms have colonial furnishings that offer comfort and luxury. Each room is equipped with amenities including private bath, room heater, TV with satellite channels, mini bar and a tea/coffee maker.

Sinclairs Retreat
Chalsa, Sikkim

Located at Chalsa Hill overlooking the Dooars Valley, the hotel cottages, lawns, landscaping and tree plantations have been carefully designed in harmony with the site’s natural spirit and ambience. The objective was to develop Sinclairs Retreat as one of the country’s finest nature resorts and a venue for the many restorative nature-based therapies available here. Hotel features include a swimming pool, game room, library, small gym with steam bath and sauna, a restaurant, bar, plus laundry and dry cleaning service.

There are 72 cottage-style air-conditioned rooms equipped with conveniences and amenities including private bath, and a TV with satellite programs.

Taj Mahal Hotel
New Delhi, India

One of the most distinguished addresses in the national capital, the Taj Mahal Hotel is located in the exclusive residential area of Lutyens’ Delhi, close to the seat of government. The lobby includes design details reminiscent of Mughal architecture and is a veritable showcase of artifacts, with the intricate design work of the lobby’s domes and panels perfectly complimenting the calm marble fountains. From casual, all-day eateries to formal fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks at four restaurants and two lounges. Recreation facilities include a health club and fitness center with steam baths, Jacuzzi, and sauna, gift shop, and swimming pool.

The hotel rooms are contemporary, well equipped with amenities including international direct dial telephone, wireless Internet, mini bar, a personal safe, channel music, and television with satellite programs. Travcoa guest stay in Club Rooms, which include a 24-hour invisible butler, tea, coffee and cocktails in the Taj Club lounge.