Golden Triangle with Bhutan

Package Code: SNKTWD-291
Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days
Places Covered: Delhi - Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra - Delhi - Paro - Thimphu - Punakha - Paro
Delhi
Delhi

Delhi has a number of tourist attractions, right from history to present. Museums, heritage, shopping -you name it, Delhi has it all. It’s astonishing heritage is the city's star attraction - both in terms of its monuments and its cultural offerings. Although there are sites in Delhi that one may tick off the travellers list, it is the Old Delhi area which has those lesser talked about places that cannot be missed.

Jaipur
Jaipur

Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, evokes an image of the royal family that once ruled the region what is now called the Old City or Pink City for its trademark building colour.  It is known for its fascinating monuments, colourful markets, gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens; it is not difficult to fall in love with Jaipur the moment you land here.

Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in northern India, just west of Agra, founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. Red sandstone buildings cluster at its center. Buland Darwaza gate is the entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby is the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti. Diwan-E-Khas hall has a carved central pillar. Jodha Bais Palace is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, next to the 5-story Panch Mahal that overlooks the site.

Agra
Agra

Agra tops the list of "must visit" places in India and attracts tourists like moths to flame. Home to one of the seven wonders in the world,  The city is studded with splendid architecture, dating back to the Mughal-era. Agra Fort, Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri have been recognized by the UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.

Thimphu
Thimphu

Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centres. However, it still retains its’ cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization. There are several attractions in Thimphu such as the National Post Office, the Clock Tower Square, the Motithang Takin Preserve, Tango and Chari Monasteries, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmer's Market, Semtokha Dzong to name a few. These form the most important tourist attractions in the capital city.

Punakha
Punakha

Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley. It is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls. In addition to its structural beauty, Punakha Dzong is notable for containing the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan as well as a sacred relic known as the Ranjung Karsapani. This relic is a self-created image of Avalokiteswara that miraculously emerged from the vertebrae of Tsangpa Gyarey, the founder of the Drukpa School when he was cremated.

Paro
Paro

Accentuating the natural beauty are the elegant, traditional-style houses that dot the valley and surrounding hills. One of the distinctive features of Paro town is that it is situated in a flat valley bottom and follows a grid-like pattern. The central plaza is adorned with a large prayer wheel and a small amphitheater where events are held throughout the year. There are over 155 temples and monasteries in the area, some dating as far back as the 14th?century. The country’s first and only international airport is also located in the region. Its close proximity to the historical and religious sites in the region has resulted in the development of an array of luxurious, high-end tourist resorts making Paro one of the main destination for visitors.

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Namaste & arrive at Delhi airport. You will be met by our local representative, later traditional welcome and introduction with the driver transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

Delhi, the capital of India has a strong historical background. It was ruled by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history. The history of the city is as old as the epic Mahabharata. The town was known as Indraprastha, where Pandavas used to live. In due course eight more cities came alive adjacent to Indraprastha: Lal Kot, Siri, Dinpanah, Quila Rai Pithora, Ferozabad, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad and Shahjahanabad.

Day 2: Delhi - Jaipur (260 km / 05 Hours)

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to the royal city of Jaipur - the fabled “pink city” of the desert named after Jai Singh, the former Maharaja of Jaipur. The palaces and forts of the yesteryears, which were witnesses to the royal processions and splendors, are now living monuments.

Upon arrival check in at the hotel and relax for a while.  

Evening free to visit the local bazaar. Free time for Shopping - Jaipur offers one of a kind shopping experience with its rich treasure of bewitching jewellery, beautiful gems, semi-precious stones, kundan and minakari work (enamel work on gold). Beautiful cotton fabric including sanganeri prints, tie-dye, and fine Kota doria saries are the best buys for women.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 3: Jaipur Full Day Sightseeing

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at hotel. Later a short photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): known for its iconic façade. Small windows, decorated with intricate latticework create a honeycomb-like appearance. The unique construction was originally designed to look like the crown of Krishna.

You will then proceed to the dramatic hilltop fortress at Amber, the ancient citadel is set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Ascend the imposing fort on a painted Elephant (subject to availability). You’ll wander among glittering inlays and the Hall of Mirrors.

Jaipur City Palace - The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture.

Visit Jantar Mantar (Observatory) - a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments, built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh, and completed in 1734 CE. 

The Birla Temple, originally known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is a proud architectural landmark of Jaipur. Built in pure white marble.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 4: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (270 kms / 06 Hours)

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to Agra en route take a stop for the visit of Fatehpur Sikri, one of the best preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India.   Visit Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chishti and, Jama Masjid Mosque.

Later continue drive to Agra - symbol of Grand Mughal Empire – offers a great opportunity to enjoy and admire the most romantic expression of love, man has ever created for his woman. Home of the world-famous Taj Mahal.

On arrival check in and lunch at the hotel.

Later explore the monumental heritage of the Great Mughals building including; the imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site this powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers.

Later return to hotel for Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Agra - Delhi (220 kms / 04 Hours)

Wake up early to witness the beauty of Taj Mahal with rising sun.  (Closed on Fridays), a UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the Seven Wonders of the World and surely the most extravagant expression of love ever created. 20,000 men laboured for over 17 years to build this memorial to Shah Jhan's beloved wife.

Post visit, return to the hotel to enjoy your sumptuous breakfast. Checkout and drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival transfer to local restaurant for lunch.

Afternoon proceed with a drive past tour visiting the Lutyen’s Delhi area, drive past India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhawan, secretariat buildings and Indian Parliament.

The President’s House- built in 1929, once the Imperial residence of the British Viceroys and now official residence of the President of Indian Republic.

Parliament House – this circular shaped building houses the two houses of Parliament- The Lok Sabha (lower) & Rajya Sabha (Upper). Its domed central hall is 90 feet in diameter.

India Gate - Also known as the Delhi Memorial or the All India War Memorial, the India Gate was built in commemoration of the roughly 90 000 Indian soldiers who died representing their country in World War One and on various other battlefields.

Raj Ghat - a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where he was cremated after his assassination in 1948. (Subject to VIP Movement)

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 6: Delhi - Fly - Paro Airport - Thimphu

Breakfast at the hotel. Later, Checkout and then transfer to board your flight from Delhi to Paro.  Meet & Greet on arrival at Paro Airport and transfer to Thimphu (7,710 ft.) the capital city of Bhutan. On arrival check in at the hotel. Evening explore the Thimphu town by walk. Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 7: Thimphu Sightseeing

After breakfast visit Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Statue) a place for refreshing with a huge statue of Buddha on the top of the Kuensel Phodrang, National Memorial Chorten (Monument) & Folk Heritage Museum. Afternoon visit Sangaygang View Point, Changangkha Monastery, Takin Preserve Centre, the national animal of Bhutan can be seen here, Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion). Overnight stay at Thimphu.

Day 8: Excursion to Punakha / Wangdue

(Distance: 76 km (One Way). / Driving Time: 3 hrs. / Altitude of Punakha: 1310 mts.)

After breakfast start an excursion to Punakha (4298 ft.) / Wangdue, On the way Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (3150 mts.) to view the higher Himalayas, visit Punakha Dzong - built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952.  After that take a short and easy hike to visit the Chhimi Lhakhang - The Temple, also known as “The Temple of Fertility” was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”. Evening back to Thimpu. Overnight stay at Thimpu.

Day 9: Thimphu - Paro Sightseeing

(Distance: 65 kms. / Driving Time: 2 hrs. / Altitude of Paro: 2280 mts.)

After breakfast transfer to Paro( 7483 ft.). On the way visit the Tamchog Lhakhang – It is situated between Thimphu and Paro and it was built in the 13th century by Thangthong Gyalpo. He is also known as the Iron bridge builder. Situated on a hill top, we have to cross an ancient style bridge to reach the temple. On arrival in Paro, check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Ta Dzong - National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Rinpung Dzong - Meaning "fortress of the heap of jewels". The dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 10: Paro Sightseeing

After breakfast hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery - called “Tiger’s Nest” (2hrs hike from the base camp). Later visit Drukgyel Dzong & Kyichu Monastery. Overnight stay at Paro.

Day 11: Paro Departure

After breakfast check out from hotel and drop at Paro Airport for your onward journey destination.

The Claridges, Delhi  

The Claridges, New Delhi has strived to be the best in business and has been successful in winning accolades of guests and fraternity. The Claridges houses some of the finest restaurants of the city, huge banquet halls, a rejuvenating fitness center, adequately furnished rooms, a pool with cabanas and lush green lawns to make your experience memorable. Comprising of elegantly adorned rooms, The Claridges offers you a plethora of rooms to choose from. Adequately equipped with all the facilities that you could possibly need, these rooms proffer an unconventional blend of the elegant style of architecture and the contemporary modern styles.

ITC Rajputana, Jaipur  

Experience the finest luxury hotel in Jaipur - ITC Rajputana, where we are proud to offer one of the best accommodation in the city with a host of comforts and services in settings that reflect the spirit of Rajasthan and its royalty. Just 15 kilometres from the airport and half a kilometre from the city centre, our regal-influenced design and gardens echo the city’s history. Retreat to our 218 guest rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities. Our restaurants offer tastes from around the globe, designed along the lines of traditional havelis, this leisure hotel in Jaipur has its own definition of space and splendour.

ITC Mughal, Agra  

Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal, a luxury hotel in Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture. This luxury hotel in Agra comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Le Méridien Thimphu, Thimphu  

Choose Le Méridien Thimphu for an unforgettable experience. Located at the heart of Bhutan's capital city, we are just steps away from shops and entertainment, and conveniently accessible to Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong and other celebrated attractions. Our 78 elegant guest rooms and suites boast authentic Bhutanese-style furnishings and stellar amenities like flat-screen TV, free high speed wi-fi, marble bathroom, an ergonomic workspace and uncompromising views of the local hillsides and the capital city .Be inspired and energised by the global flavours and creative presentations of our carefully curated fare at Latest Recipe, Sese Shamu, the only Pan Asian restaurant in Thimphu and Latitude 27.

Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront, Paro  

Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is the perfect destination which offers life time opportunity to live and experience the country’s exotic culture and natural beauty with a mix of luxury and comfort. Located 10 minutes from Paro International Airport, Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is situated on the edge of the Paro River, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.The timeless art of leisure can be freely pursued with amenities that include Explore Spa and an indoor heated pool, as well as a Fitness Center. Our two restaurants, Bamboo Chic and Latest Recipe and Latitude bar offers a diners an exquisite sensorial experience. The hotel also caters to international business travelers, with 612 square meters of meeting space. Our 59 guest rooms, including seven suites, are chic retreats designed with the curious traveler in mind. Each offers striking Himalayan Valley and Paro River views, as well as our signature LM BED and separate soaking bathtub.

Itinerary Route

Bhutan

Consistently voted the happiest country in the world, the little nation of Bhutan is set at the far eastern end of the Himalayas, between India and China. Bhutan only began to open its doors to outsiders in the 1970s, and still has a strict sustainability policy in place with respect to tourism. As a result it has retained a deep cultural authenticity and has preserved its environment admirably, making it one of Asia’s most beguiling and unforgettable destinations. Highlights include incredible forts and temples perched on sheer mountain cliffs, a rich (predominantly Buddhist) culture, and spectacular scenery – ranging from temperate sub-tropical plains and valleys cloaked with dense forest, to lofty sub-Alpine mountains capped with snow.