Black Necked Crane Festival Bhutan Trip
Experience the Magic of Bhutan: Black Necked Crane Festival!
Join Tripkarado for an unforgettable journey to the heart of Bhutan!
Celebrate the enchanting Black Necked Crane Festival in stunning Phobjikha Valley, where vibrant cultural performances, local artisan
showcases, and rich traditions await. Why you should take this trip:
- Witness a Unique Festival: Immerse yourself in lively dances and rituals honoring the majestic black-necked cranes.
- Engage with Artisans: Discover Bhutan’s rich craftsmanship and meet talented local creators.
Book your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Tour Plan
Day 1
Bagdogra to Phuentsholing
- Your Bhutan adventure begins as you land at Bagdogra Airport. From here, we’ll drive towards Jaigaon, the Indian town bordering Bhutan. At the Pedestrian Terminal, our team will assist you in smoothly crossing into Bhutan and entering Phuentsholing—your gateway to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
- Upon arrival at your hotel in Phuentsholing If you’re up for a short walk we recommend visiting Zangtopelri Lhakhang, a serene temple located in the heart of town.
- In the evening, during dinner, we’ll officially welcome you with a special celebratory cake and offer you a local Bhutanese wine to mark the beginning of this beautiful journey on a joyful note. After dinner, join the group for an entertaining karaoke session at Samsara Club (drinks at the club are not included).
- Overnight stay: Phuentsholing.
- Must try Café: Kizom Café and Mountain Café.
Day 2
Phuentsholing to Thimphu
- After breakfast, get your bags packed and ready.
- Once immigration is complete, begin your scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. The journey is full of breathtaking views and unforgettable stops.
- Gedu Stupa: Take a peaceful break at Eight Dharma Kaya Stupas beautiful hilltop stupa.
- Lunch Stop: Enjoy a delicious meal en route, surrounded by the serene countryside.
- Wangkha Waterfalls: Marvel at the cascading waters—a perfect spot for a quick photo and a moment to soak in nature.
- Chuzom: Witness the stunning confluence of the Paro and Thimphu rivers, flanked by traditional Bhutanese chortens.
- By evening, As the sun sets, step out to explore the vibrant streets of Thimphu—the entire city takes on a festive vibe, especially during local events and celebrations. From local markets to roadside eateries, the town is alive with color and culture. Don’t miss the Clock Tower Square, a buzzing social hub perfect for an evening stroll.
- Overnight stay: Thimphu.
- Nightlife in Thimphu: Check out Mojo Park or Space 34 for live music, dancing, and a great vibe.
Day 3
Thimphu Sightseeing
- Have Breakfast, You’ll spend the day exploring Thimphu’s attractions today.
- Drive by National Memorial Chorten: This large chorten is one of the most visible landmarks in Thimphu, and for many Bhutanese it is the focus of daily worship.
- Simply Bhutan: Step into a living museum where you can experience Bhutanese culture firsthand—try archery, join a traditional dance, and sample the local spirit, Aara.
- Buddha Dordenma: On the top of Kuensel Phodrang hill sits the statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. The 51.5-meter long bronze statue would surely attract you and the uninterrupted view of the valley would leave you spellbound. The site is also known as Buddha View Point.
- Takin Preservation Centre: You will find the National animal of Bhutan “Takin” in this open zoo. Takin is one of the most endangered species of the World and it is available only in Bhutan.
- Thangthong Dewachen Dupthop Nunnery: This peaceful hilltop monastery run by Buddhist nuns—offering a rare chance to interact with Bhutan’s female monks.
- Bhutan Postal Museum: Discover Bhutan’s fascinating postal history and explore the story behind the country’s unique and world-famous postage stamps.
- Authentic Craft Bazaar: You can explore stalls and shops filled with intricately designed items, many of which are handmade by skilled artisans from across the country.
- You’ll stay overnight in Thimphu
Day 4
Thimphu to Phobjikha Valley
- On this beautiful morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, it’s time to pack your bags for an unforgettable journey to Phobjikha Valley. Our first stop is the Dochula Pass 3050 m, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of 108 chortens dotting the landscape against the backdrop of majestic mountains.
- For the adventurous souls, consider trekking along the Natural Trail. A pleasurable walk (around 2 hours) that gives a nice feeling for Phobjikha Valley. It is the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trails in Bhutan. From the small hilltop overlooking Gangtey Goemba, head downhill through flower meadows to Semchubara village and from here through beautiful forests and into the open valley.
- Additionally, visit the Phobjikha Visitor Center to learn more about the valley’s unique ecosystem and the conservation efforts for the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate here during the winter months.
- As night falls, retreat to your cozy accommodation in Phobjikha Valley.
Day 5
Phobjikha to Punakha
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Black Necked Crane Festival: The Festival is a vibrant and culturally rich event held annually in the scenic Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. This festival celebrates the arrival of the blacknecked cranes, which migrate to Bhutan from Tibet during the winter months. The cranes hold deep cultural significance in Bhutanese folklore, symbolizing peace, love, and the spirits of departed loved ones.
- After lunch, travel to Punakha. If time allows, We will complete any one from the following sightseeing options:
- Punakha Dzong: Explore this stunning fortress, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
- Suspension Bridge: Take a walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, offering breathtaking views of the valley.
- Optional Activity: River Rafting: Experience the thrill of a 10KM rafting adventure on the Mo Chhu river, featuring 10 exciting rapids! Each raft accommodates 6 people, and the rafting time is approximately 1.5 hours.
- In the evening you can stroll around Kaja Throm: One can witness a beautiful local market which showcases the best of what locals have to offerto visitors. You can enjoy the gardens, live music, food & drinks, and meet local Bhutanese farmers. This can be one of the best places to hang out after sightseeing.
- Enjoy an overnight stay in Punakha, with breakfast and dinner provided at the hotel. DAY 5: Phobjikha to Punakha. Travel time: 2hr 30 min hours, 79 KMS www.tripkarado.c
Day 6
Punakha to Paro
- As the morning sun rises, complete your remaining sightseeing in Punakha before heading to Paro.
- Punakha Dzong – Also known as “the palace of great happiness” This Dzong is the most picturesque of all Bhutan ancient fortresses and it joins the mainland by an arched wooden bridge that contains many precious relics from the days when successive kings reigned the Kingdom from this Punakha valley
- Suspension Bridge – This hidden treasure in the Punakha Valley connects the rest of the valley to the old administrative center of Punakha Dzongkhag the whole deck is covered with prayerflags and provides a perfect spot for bird watching and photography.
- Optional Activity: River Rafting The Mo Chhu river rafting is 10KM course which comprises of 10 rapids. The raft is 6-seater. River rafting time is approximately 1.5 hours. and Start for Paro.
- Visit to the Paro Airport viewpoint. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the airport nestled amidst the picturesque valley surrounded by lush green hills. Take in the sights and capture memorable photographs before we continue our exploration of the charming town of Paro.
- Rinpung Dzong night view: Highlight of the day, Just before entering Paro town Enjoy the enchanting night view of Rinpung Dzong! As the sun sets, the fortress-monastery lights up, creating a magical ambiance that’s sure to leave you spellbound. It’s a sight you won’t want to miss! Don’t forget to capture this mesmerizing sight with Bhutanese attire in some beautiful photos.
- Overnight stay in Paro, Breakfast & Dinnerin Hotel
Day 7
Hike to Tiger’s Nest
- Pack a small backpack and start your day early with a hearty breakfast—today is the highlight of your Bhutan journey.
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest Hike): Begin the iconic hike to Bhutan’s most sacred site, perched dramatically on a cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley.
- This spiritual and scenic trail takes you through lush pine forests and rhododendron groves, with panoramic views at every turn.
- Reaching the monastery is both a physical accomplishment and a soulful experience.
- Bonus: You’ll be awarded a Tiger’s Nest Hike Completion Certificate to celebrate your achievement!
Optional Activity (Pay on the Spot)
- Traditional Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath: (Must Try) After the hike, treat yourself to a rejuvenating hot stone bath—an age-old Bhutanese therapy believed to relieve deep muscle fatigue and promote relaxation. The stones, cracked and steaming, release natural minerals that soothe the body and calm the mind.
- Evening at Leisure: Explore the Paro market for local souvenirs and handicrafts, or unwind at your hotel after a fulfilling day.
- Overnight Stay: Paro
Day 8
Paro to Bagdogra Airport drop
- On the last day of your Bhutan journey, we will start early at 5:30 AM. Your breakfast will be packed for you to enjoy on the go. Bid farewell to the warm hospitality that has accompanied you throughout your stay.
- Your driver will be waiting to transfer you to Phuentsholing, where you’ll catch your next vehicle to the airport. If you prefer a hotel drop-off, please note that this will incur an additional cost based on your accommodation location.
- As you embark on this final leg of your trip, take a moment to reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve created, the stunning sights you’ve experienced, and the cherished moments you’ve enjoyed in the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Safe travels! Day 8: Paro to Bagdogra Airport drop Travel time: 9 hours, 296 km. Travels Traveler Conduct P
Inclusion & Exclusion
The rates quoted in the packages is total amount for one person & valid for Indian nationals only.
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) Included. 1200.00 pp / per night.
- Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide to assist throughout the trip.
- 1N Phuentsholing, 2 Nts Thimphu, 2 Nts Paro, 1N Punakha, 1N Phobjikha
- Breakfast & Dinner is included at all accommodated hotels.
- Complimentary Tourist Sim Card with 100 Min talk time & 1 GB data.
- Pickup & Drop from Bagdogra Airport (IXB) on Innova / Tempo Traveller SIC
- Bhutan Part vehicle as per Itinerary on Toyota Coster / Hiace SIC.
- Driver allowances, toll tax, parking charges, state taxes.
- Travel Water 2 bottles (500ml each)/day/person)
- 5% GST & 5% TCS are included. For further details, please refer to Page 3.
- Any Airfare or Train Fare .
- Lunch, any extra meal/beverages not mentioned in the package. Additional extra usage of vehicle other than mentioned in the itinerary.
- Timing : 9:00 am to 6:00 PM , Point to Point Sightseeing, not at disposal Basis.
- Any activities. Entrance Fees at Monasteries / Monuments / Museums etc.
- Transfers other than those mentioned in the Itinerary.
- Any expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as rescheduling or cancellations e.g. fl ights cancellations, fl ights delay any accidents, weather conditions, medical evacuations, riots, strikes etc. Such expenses will have to be paid directly.
- Any other expenses specifi cally not mentioned above.
Documents Required
- Bring your original Voter Card or a valid Indian passport. (Passport with six months of validity from the last day of your Bhutan trip)
- For Children (Under 18): – Passport or Birth Certificate.
- (Details Should be written in English not in regional language)
Important Notes:
- Notice: Aadhaar Card is not accepted for adults or children.
- If using a Voter ID, it must be the original issued by a government office, not a PVC card printed from an online download.
- No passport-size photocopies or any copies of your Voter ID or passport are required; only the original documents need to be carried.
Travel Conduct Policy:
At Tripkarado, we are committed to ensuring that travel is a respectful, safe, and enjoyable experience for all our travelers. We expect all travelers to adhere to our conduct policy to guarantee the safety, security, and overall satisfaction of everyone involved. Read complete terms and conditions here: https://www.tripkarado.com/terms-and-conditions/
Read Cancellation Policy
| Condition | Refund / Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Booking Amount | ₹10,000 per person — Non-refundable |
| Cancellation ≥ 7 days before departure | ₹10,000 advance can be adjusted against a future batch |
| Cancellation < 7 days before departure | No refund or adjustment provided |
| No-show on departure day (as per the given reporting time) |
100% forfeiture of the booking amount |
| Force majeure / external restrictions Natural disasters (rain, snow, landslides, earthquakes), strikes, COVID-19 restrictions, or any local government restrictions |
Amount remains non-refundable |
Hotel & Others
Hotels are 3-star certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
| Location | Hotel |
|---|---|
| Phuentsholing | Hotel Tara Phendeyling or similar. |
| Thimphu | Bhutan Boutique Residency or similar. |
| Punakha | Punakha Boutique or similar. |
| Paro | Golden Paddyfield or similar. |
| Phobjikha | Dewachen Hotel & Spa or similar. (Premium) |
- The hotels mentioned above will be confirmed based on room availability. Otherwise, we will confirm hotels of a similar category.
- All three hotels are handpicked, The hotels we offer you are the best certified 3-star hotels, clean and hygienic approved by the Department of Tourism.
- The hotels offer buffets with Bhutanese, Indian dishes with improved food quality and a wider selection. However, if you prefer not to eat touristy food, please inform your guide so that he can suggest you to local restaurants. Any expenses incurred from eating outside will be your responsibility.
- The room photos provided are intended to give you an idea of the rooms available at the property and may not depict the exact room you will be allocated.
Booking Policy
| TRIP AMOUNT | 5% GST | 5% TCS | Total (Inclusive of Taxes) | BOOKING AMOUNT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rs. 34,999/- | Rs. 1,750/- | Rs. 1,925/- | Rs. 38,674/- | Rs. 10,000/- |
To secure your seat for our group tours, follow these straightforward steps:
- Advance Payment: Secure your reservation with an advance of Rs. 10000.00/- per person.
- Enjoy peace of mind with our “Pay on Arrival” system, which allows you to settle the balance payment upon arrival at your hotel in Phuentsholing.
- Booking Confirmation: After completing the booking, you will promptly receive a trip confirmation email from contact@tripkarado.com and will be added to a WhatsApp group created for the group.
- We will require your PAN card details for TCS (Tax Collected at Source).
- TCS (Tax Collected at Source) is not an additional tax and is refundable upon filing your Income Tax Return (ITR). This is mandated by the Government for all international trips.
- Single Occupancy Room is available at additional cost of Rs 12000 + Tax
Embrace a worry-free journey as you eagerly anticipate an unforgettable adventure with us! Please note, the “Pay on Arrival” option is exclusively available for group trips.
Pickup & Drop Details
Transfer Schedule & Locations
Airport Pickup & Drop
- Pickup and Drop location: Bagdogra Airport – IXB
- Distance from Bagdogra Airport to Phuentsholing: 4:00 hr (150.8 km) via road.
- Airport Pickup: Scheduled between 02:00 pm and 03:00 pm at Bagdogra Airport.
- Airport Drop: Scheduled at 04:00 pm. Kinldy book your flight after 6:00 PM onwards or consider staying at Bagdogra at your own expense and catching a flight the next day.
Important Notice:
- We won’t keep you waiting at the airport for pickup. We’ll begin our journey from Bagdogra Airport once six members have arrived, with one Innova for every six group members.
- If arriving by train at (NJP) New Jalpaiguri Station, please proceed to Tinbatti More, approximately 11 minutes (3.7 km) from the NJP station.
- Our team member will be at the airport to coordinate and arrange your pickup.
- Please note: If your pickup or drop falls outside our designated time, you can arrange a separate vehicle at your own expense.
- If you have booked a late evening return flight, you have the option to wait at the airport.
FAQ's
1 We're a couple, do we need to share a room?
No, you do not need to share a room. Couples can opt for double sharing without sharing with
other travelers
2 I’m traveling solo ,how will accommodation work?
For solo travelers, accommodation will be arranged on a twin sharing basis with same-gender.
3 What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutan’s national currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). However, Indian currency is widely
accepted everywhere. so there’s no need to exchange INR for Bhutanese Ngultrum.
4 Are ATMs / Credit Card available in Bhutan?
While there are ATMs in Bhutan. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash to ensure smooth transactions during your trip. Credit card is still not common in Bhutan. Very few stores/hotels accept VISA card with 5% charges.
5 Is Bhutan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Bhutan is considered one of the safest destinations for solo travelers. It offers a welcoming and secure environment. However joining a group can help reduce these costs.
6 Are there any restrictions on dress?
There are no rules about what visitors should wear. However for visiting places like religious sites, respectful clothing that covers your body from shoulders to knees is appropriate and appreciated.
7 How much cash can I bring into Bhutan?
You can carry up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) in cash.
8 What is the weather like in Bhutan and when is the best time to visit?
Bhutan is a year-round destination. There are four seasons: summer (June to August), autumn (September to November), winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). But because of the range of altitudes in the country, and the influence of the north Indian monsoons, the climate is incredibly varied.
9 Additional Expenses Overview
To assist with your trip planning, here’s an estimate of additional expenses:
- Lunch: Approximately Rs. 300.00 to Rs. 500.00 pp per meal. Note: Prices may vary, especially for authentic Bhutanese meals.
- Entrance Fees for Monuments : Around Rs. 5000.00 pp in total for all sightseeing places.
- Punakha River Rafting: Approximately Rs. 2000.00 pp.
- Hot Stone Bath: Approximately Rs. 1500.00 to Rs. 2000.00 pp.
- Please note that these amounts are approximate and may vary based on actual consumption and current rates. We recommend planning accordingly and feel free to contact us for any further details or questions you may have.
Do's & Don'ts
DO
Do’s
A prayer wheel contains a scroll of mantras at its core, called a “Life Tree.” The wheel is always spin clockwise,
Photography Guidelines: Always ask for permission first and only take photos after receiving it. Additionally, refrain from photographing police personnel and refrain from taking pictures inside temples and monasteries.
Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, please wear appropriate attire. Men should wear long pants, while women should opt for long skirts or dresses that cover their shoulders.
Waste Disposal: Please do not litter. The Bhutanese view their natural environment as a sacred gift, so it’s important to respect it.
Wildlife Guidlines: Don’t disturb or feed wild animals.
Zebra Crossings: Use zebra crossings when crossing roads; failure to do so may result in fines, Use pedestrian walkways when walking.
DON’T
Don’ts
Respect cultural: Avoid touching or pointing feet at religious objects.
Don’t Smoke in Public: Smoking in the public areas is strictly prohibited and liable to be fined. Spitting on the wall and other places is discourage.
Don’t Disturb Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and avoid loud noises or sudden movements around animals.
No Drones: Visitors can’t fly drones. Approval only for goverment use.
Avoid politically sensitive issues: It is wise to bear this in mind when conversing with local people. Avoid politically sensitive issues.
Bargaining: Shops typically have fixed prices for all items, and bargaining is not common.
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