Sikkim Bhutan Trip

10 - 25 April 2014 (16 days) India's Sikkim & Bhutan
Trip Cost excluding airfares is Rm8,980 (8 pax group), Rm8,880 (10 pax group), RM8,780 (12 pax), RM8,580 (14 pax) & Rm8,180 (16 pax group and above)

Update 31 March 2014 Air Asia flights CHANGED. Please take note of the new outgoing and returning flight timing.
Update 30 Jan 2014 Trip is FULL. We will slightly revised the itinerary as flight Paro to Kolkata daily flight no longer.
Update 30 Oct 2013 In 2009, we organized a sightseeing & trekking trip in Sikkim coupled with 8 days in Bhutan. Do register your interest asap. Note that in Sikkim, the mode of travel will be by jeeps because many roads are narrow and not suitable for buses.This trip required early preparation for some document e.g Sikkim entry permit, Bhutan Visa etc. We will using Air Asia to Kolkata and overland to Bhutan, only fly back from Bhutan to Kolkata before end trip. As such, trip cost above is excluded air ticket (international & Two way domestic). We have a small group confirmed to join this trip and still open for registration. Kindly confirm your seat asap if you keen and email to rachelheng123@gmail.com for registration. (NOTE : we had revised our itinerary from past trip where add on some light/easy trek in Sikkim)

Flights changed as as 6 Feb 2014
10 Apr 2014 Thu AK63 Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kolkata (CCU) Depart 2230PM Arrive 0000+1 Midnight.
25 Apr 2014 Fri AK62 Kolkata (CCU) to Kuala Lumpur (KUL) Depart 0040AM Arrive 0720AM on 25 April.

IMPORTANT NOTICE
This is meant to be a "free and easy" adventure trip. Participants should be relatively fit, with a good sense of humour, and above all, have the right attitude for close travel with others through possibly some trying times. Most definitely, this is not a trip for prudes, whiners, fuss-pots, and other similiarly assorted types! We had a couple of those before and it wasn't pleasant for us or them. Although every effort will be made to stick to the given itinerary, ground conditions may change and cause some disruption and/or deviation from the norm. Otherwise, have fun!

View of Kangchenjunga from Goechala

Small but beautiful, Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas . The state is spread below the Mount Khanchendzonga (8534 mts), the third highest mountain in the world, and revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. With an area of 7,300 sq km and measuring approx. 114 km from the north to south and 64 km from east to west, the elevation ranges from 300m to over 8540m above sea level. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and spectacular experience. Within a matter of hours one move from the sub tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold rugged mountain slopes below year round snow-covered peaks.

The modern history of Sikkim begins from 1642 A.D. with the coronation of Phuntsog Namgyal as the first Chogyal or king of Sikkim in a tranquil pine covered hill in Yuksom Norbugang in West Sikkim.The Namgyals were scions of the Mi-nyak House in Kham in Eastern Tibet. It is said that there were three brothers, chiefs of Kham Mi-nyak. A letter dropped from heaven directed the middle brother to go south towards Sikkim where his descendents were fated to rule. It was in Sakya that his eldest son single-handedly raised the pillars of the Sakya monastery and earned himself the sobriquet of 'Khye Bumsa'( the strength of a lakh of men). Khye Bumsa also earned himself the hand of the daughter of the Sakya hierarch and settled in Chumbi Valley, which remained, for a long time, the epicenter of the later kingdom of Sikkim.

Day 1 Thursday April 10 Kuala Lumpur Kolkata: Meet by 835PM for Air Asia AK63 to Kolkata departing 1035PM arriving past midnight 0000 (1200AM). Overnight (ON) Kolkata (Calcutta).
Day 2 Kolkata-Bagdogra- Gangtok (4 hrs drive) : After breakfast, transfer to airport for domestic flight to Bagdogra. Once we reach Bagdogra, will transfer on a journey to Gangtok, capital of Sikkim. Gangtok is spread out on a ridge 1520m above sea level, and looks something out of a fairy tale with houses precariously balanced on the slopes of steep hills. Apart from the gorgeous view of deep valleys, waterfalls and snow-capped mountain ranges that separate from neighbouring Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal. ON Gangtok.

Close up view of Rhododendrons

Day 3 Gangtok-Tsomgo Lake (2 hrs drive):After breakfast, drive to Tsomgo Lake, also means as The Source of the Lake (3,780m). Warm clothes needed for this place. The lake derives its water from melting snows off the surrounding mountains, which is one of the famous sacred lakes in Sikkim, situated near the borders of Tibet. On arrival Tsamgo lake start our short trek for 3 Hrs to Tsamgo range which is 4230 Mtrs Back to Tsamgo lake heaving lunch after lunch drive back to Gangtok visit Sikkim Flower Exhibition Centre where a wide range of rare species of orchids display (Seasonal). Evening walk around the local market. 2nd night Gangtok.
Day 4 Gangtok Lachung (6-7 hrs drive):Today, we leave for North district of Sikkim to a small village, Lachung (2,400m). This spectacular drive will take about 6-7 hrs en-route visit Kabi-Lungchok, apart from its historical and cultural importance is also rich in biodiversity. This place is a symbol of reverence to the guardian deity Mt Khangchendzonga and had usher ad in a new era of communal harmony in the annals of Sikkim as the venue where the blood brotherhood treaty between the Lepcha chieftain Thekong Thek and the Bhutia king Khey bumsa had been solemnized in the 13th century.
Stop at Seven sister waterfalls for photo season visit Phodong Monastery which is one of the oldest monastery in north Sikkim lunch en-route stop at Naga waterfalls & Bima waterfalls If weather is clear, you will see the magnificent range of the third highest mountain in the world, Kanchengzonga and some wild orchids blooming (during spring) on the way. Arrive Lachung in the late afternoon and check in at a lodge. (Please be reminded that the facilities here are very basic) ON Lachung.
Day 5 Lachung Yumthang excursion Gangtok: After breakfast, we leave for Yumthang (3,500m) excursion. This panoramic drive will bring you to the Valley of Flowers which consists of about 36 species of rhododendrons, primulas and other spectacular alpine wild flowers. Yaks and dzos can be seen grazing on the meadows. On way back, walk across the Lachung Chu and have a dip in a hot spring (swimming costumes advised). If not, just enjoy the scenic surrounding. Back to Lachung for lunch and rest of day, free to walk round the villages. ON Gangtok.

Darjeeling "tea" town/ Tea lady

Day 6 Gangtok-Phuentsholing (6 hrs drive): After breakfast, we set off for Phuentsholing. visit Rumtek Monastery. Tucked away in the clouds, Gangtok is spread out on a ridge 1520m above sea level, and looks something out of a fairy tale with houses precariously balanced on the slopes of steep hills. Apart from the gorgeous view of deep valleys, waterfalls and snow-capped mountain ranges that separate from neighbouring Tibet, Bhutan and Nepal.
After visiting New Rumtek monastery we start easy trek to Old Rumtek Monastery and Village to experience the life of Sikkimese Village. We walk back to our transport and then drive to Sikkim border line area stop for check out then start drive towards to Phontsholing arrival at India-Bhutan borderline area do clear immigration from India on arrival Bhutan check in to hotel evening visit to Phuentsholing market and town over night at Phuentsholing (Bhutan).
Day 7 Phuentsholing-Thimpu (7hrs drive): Enroute visit to Kharbandi Gompa, this beautiful monastery situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers, was built by Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron in 1967. Also will visit Simtokha Dzong,the oldest fortress of the Kingdom built in 1627, which now houses the School for Buddhist studies. ON Thimpu.

Bhutan

Day 8 Thimphu: Full day sightseeing - visit Dup-Thop Lhakhang and the nunnery, Changangkha Lhakhang, the mini zoo to see " Takin" the national animal of Bhutan, view point, Indigenous Hospital (Institute of Traditional Medicine), National Library, which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, some dating back several hundred years, as well as modern academic books mainly on Himalayan culture and religion, also houses the biggest book of the world; Zorig Chusum (Painting School, students are taught to learn on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan), Folk Heritage Museum, built in 2001, provides fascinating insights of Bhutanese culture and way of life, Textile Museum, houses a fine collection of Bhutanese textiles; Memorial Chorten, built and completed in the year 1974 after his(Third King of Bhutan) untimely death, it is both a memorial of the Late King and a monument to world peace.
The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy; Post & telegraph office to see Bhutanese stamps; visit/view Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten Tashichhodzong- This huge fortress houses the main Secretariat building, the throne room of His Majesty the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of Chief Abbot " Je-Khempo" and the central monk-body; and visit Handicrafts Emporium: This government-undertaking Emporium displays a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles, craft, and a small collection of books on Bhutan, Buddhism and Himalayan culture. Second night Thimphu.
Day 9 Thimphu-Punakha (75km, 3hrs+ drive): After breakfast, we drive up to visit Dochula Pass (3088m) . The top of the ass is decorated with prayer flags and a chorten; We continue to the majestic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, which was built to guard the approach to Central Bhutan, and turn off towards Punakha, a former capital of Bhutan and current winter seat of Je Khnep (the chief abbot).
We then visit Punakha Dzong, built at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637. One of the most picturesque fortresses that dot the landscape of Bhutan, Punakha Dzong is also one of the most historically-important fortresses – it is the former seat of the royal family and the current winter residence of the national monastic body. ON Punakha.

The Bhutanese monk / Yongo traveler with local people

Day 10 Punakha-Paro (125km, 4hrs+ drive): Morning excursion to Chimi Lhakhang. About 400 years old, maintained by a monk with 42 trainees, and linked to Lama Drukpa Kinley, The Divine Madman. Afternoon visit to Ta Dzong (National Museum) and Rinpung Dzong. ON Paro.
Day 11 Paro: In the morning, morning excursion to Taktsang Monastery viewpoint (approximately 5 hrs walk). Probably the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, the landmark seems to defy gravity as it clings to the sheer cliff face 900-metres above the Paro valley floor. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche arrived at this point on the back of a tigress, hence the common name “Tiger’s Nest”.
Afternoon visit Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. Along the way, we also visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. 2nd night Paro.
Day 12 Paro (Full day excursion to Haa Valley): We take in the sights of the undeveloped Ha district, only recently opened to visitors. While most of the district is still forested, the Ha valley boasts rich grazing pastures for yak- and cattle-rearing, and small-scale cultivations by traditional farms that produce cardamom, apples, potatoes and oranges. 3rd night Paro.
Day 13 Fly Bagdogra Darjeeling: Morning check-out and transfer to Paro airport for Druk Air flight KB212 departing at 0720 hours for Kolkata 0800. Once we reach Bagdogra, will transfer on a 4hr journey drive through picturesque tea gardens to the world renowned hill station, Darjeeling. Perched on an altitude of 2134m, Darjeeling is set amidst a majestic backdrop of the great Himalayan peak of Kanchenjunga (3rd highest peak in the world at 8586m) and is regarded as the Queen of East India. After dinner, free at leisure to visit the local. ON Darjeeling.
Day 14 Darjeeling sightseeing: Depart hotel at about 4am for Tiger Hill (2585m) for sun rising view and a panoramic view of the spectacular snow-clad mountain peaks of the Himalayan Range reroute to the Ghoom Monastery, built in 1850 by Lama Sharb, which enshrines at 15ft. Statue of Maitreya Buddha.
After breakfast start short easy trek to Lebong village via Bhotey busty, one of the very famous village in Darjeeling on arrival Labong village visit Happy Valley tea garden and the drive to visit the Himalayan Zoological Park. The zoo serves as a breeding center for snow leopards and red pandas, as well as a home for mountain yaks, Himalayan black bears and Siberian Tigers. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, located within this zoo, which was founded in 1954 to commemorate history's first successful conquest of Mt. Everest in 1953 by 'Darjeeling's son', Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. Then after, then proceed to Tibetan Refugee Center. Second night Darjeeling.
Day 15 Bagdogra to Kalkota-Home: Morning check-out and transfer to Bagdogra airport, then fly to Kolkata. Group can have free time for final shopping around Kolkata before night transfer to Kolkata Airport.
Day 16 Friday 25 Apr Home: Fly AK62 departing 0040 midnight, arriving KUL 0720AM morning 25 Apr Friday.

Bhutan

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Cost cover budgeted accommodation, Sikkim's (Lachung) permit fees and transport.
Not covered are airfares( KL-Kolkata-KL, One Way Kolkata-Bagdogra & ONE way Paro-Kalkota flight estimated Rm2k-2.5k for all sector), India Visa fees Rm168, Bhutan Visa fees USD30, Bhutan Tourism Development Fees USD10, airport taxes (international & domestic), entrances ticket (approximately Rm100) and meals(Sikkim) except Bhutan (FULL BOARD). Allocate about Rm250-300 for 8 days meals.
Guides/driver accompanying group do expect tips. Yongo encourages group members to be generous but should of course, commensurate with their level of service rendered.
A deposit of Rm1060 is payable to confirm your place.
Cost is subject to change if there's a significant changes in foreign exchange rates and/or airfares.

Email: rachelheng123@gmail or yongo123@gmail.com
Phone: Rachel 012 352 0868 or Lee Min: 016 220 9033
Address: No 19 Lrg Air Bersih Tiga, Air Panas, 53200 Kuala Lumpur