Exploring Bhutan:A Photographic Journey Through the Dragon Kingdomwith Vincent Versace2015 Dates TBA |
 © Palm Beach Photographic Centre |
Double Occupancy: $5790 • Single Occupancy: add $590
NET Internal Airfare: $1300
Includes tuition, hotel, meals as indicated, land transportation, admission fees, private guide and driver. Tips not included. International airfares not included.
AIR COST INCLUDES*:
INTERNATIONAL AIR: There is no international air included in this trip cost.
Space Limited to 12 participants.
© Palm Beach Photographic Centre
Description
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayan Mountains, Bhutan has for centuries remained a mystery to the rest of the world. Come with the Palm Beach Photographic Centre, to this land of remarkable climates and ecosystems for the most extraordinary photographic adventure of your life. Because Bhutan has controlled tourism, allowing under ten thousand outsiders each year, it has been less explored and photographed than most other countries. The local people are unspoiled by the outside world, making them one of the friendliest and warmest cultures you will ever visit. There is a mosaic of different people who continue to live in valleys isolated from one another and from the outside world. The Bhutanese have treasured their natural environment as it is seen as a source of all life and the abode of the gods and spirits. Thimpu, the only world capital without traffic lights. has managed to retain its charming, medieval feel with its brightly painted and elaborately decorated facades. The people of Bhutan offer you unbelievable photo opportunities with their colorful dress, music and dancing. When we cross Pele La Pass (11,300 feet), we will be able to view the magnificence of the Himalayan range. Buddhism has been the predominant religion since the seventh century, and we will be able to photograph some of the most ancient and precious Buddhist sites in Bumthang and Jakar, and the Jakar Tsechu festival, one of the kingdom's most famed religious festivals.
© Palm Beach Photographic Centre
Additional Information
CUSTOM LAND COST INCLUDES:
All meals as designated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); hotels as shown based on double occupancy; airport transfers as indicated; all transfers to and from hotels as indicated for planned activities and sightseeing tours–entrance fees, domestic permits; all applicable service charges and taxes (excluding some international or domestic airport departure taxes); predeparture materials including a customized Travel Guide containing destination information, travel tips, and cultural primer; limited travel insurance coverage including emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $200,000 per person, and in-country emergency medical expenses up to $5,000 per person.
CUSTOM LAND COST EXCLUDES:
Any item not specifically included in your program including all snacks, extra personal beverages & bottled water, etc. other than during designated meals, alcoholic beverages; passport and visa fees, video fees, excess baggage fees, laundry, phone calls, internet and any other items of a personal nature not specifically indicated; tips for your guide, ground staff, drivers, hotel porters and other service staff; ADDITIONAL INSURANCE OF ANY KIND, including trip cancellation/interruption/delay, air ticket cancelation, additional medical, and lost baggage insurance; any and all expenses resulting from delays arising beyond our direct control due to bad weather, trail, river, sea, and/or road conditions, sickness, civil unrest, government action; or any other transportation delays for any reason beyond our direct control; optional activities, free-day activities, including any additional stopover arrangements not specifically included in the itinerary. We can make additional arrangements for you. Extra charges will apply.
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE (not included):
We highly recommend purchasing additional insurance, including trip cancellation. We recommend Travel Insurance Select (TIS). To be eligible for maximum benefits, you must purchase within 2 weeks of paying your initial deposit. Visit http://www.asiatranspacific.com/insurance to learn more.
INTERNATIONAL AIR:
to Bangkok is not included.
INTERNAL AIR:
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi - Paro | Bumthang - Paro - Bangkok Suvarnabhumi on Druk Air (KB) - Economy class.
* All airfare is subject to change until ticketed. We will always do our best to confirm the most desirable seats on internal and/or international air (if ticketed by ATJ). Confirmed seat assignments are never guaranteed and can be changed at the discretion of the airline. Often with minor schedule changes, seat assignments are cancelled by the airlines. Please feel free to contact the airlines on your own to check on your seat assignments
Visa:
Bhutan requires a visa and is available on arrival only. Asia Transpacific Journeys will obtain the visa on your behalf and the fee is included in your trip cost (custom or group).
CANCELLATION POLICY
Our cancellation policy is available on our Registration Information page under the Travel Workshops section.
CLICK HERE to read our cancellation policy.
Biography
VINCENT VERSACE is a recipient of the Computerworld Smithsonian Award in Media Arts & Entertainment, the Shellenberg fine art award, a six time nominee to the Photoshop Hall of Fame and is the author of the best selling book, Welcome to Oz: A cinematic Approach to Digital Still Photography with Photoshop which was chosen as Shutterbug Magazine's best how to book of the year. His work is part of the permanent collection of the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of American History. Vincent is the photographer of Immediate Assistants Medical Rescue Go Team. He is a member of the Epson Stylus Pros, a a Nikon Legend Behind the Lens, an Xrite Colorotti, Lexar Elite Photographer, an American Photo Magazine Mentor Trek and Master Class instructor and a member of the National Association of Photoshop Professionals Instructor Dream Team teaching regularly at Photoshop World and the Maine Photographic and Palm Beach Photographic Workshops. Vincent was the original host of the Epson Print Academy. Articles about his work in conjunction with digital workflows have appeared in American Photo, Popular Photography, Shutterbug, Outdoor Photographer, Pro Digital Imaging, PDN, What Digital camera, Petersen's Photographic, PC Camera, Studio Design and Photography Professional Photographer and Digital Imaging magazines.
Website: http://www.versacephotography.com
Itinerary
Wednesday, Apr. 17, 2013
Meals Provided: L D
Fly Bangkok Suvarnabhumi to Paro on Druk Air KB 141, departing 06:50, arriving 10:15
Economy Class
Welcome to Bhutan. Paro is astonishingly pastoral for the seat of an international airport: the airport road terminates in an archery field. Houses built in traditional style are painted with colorful designs. The sense of tranquil serenity that defines this land is apparent at once.
Begin by exploring the impressive Paro Dzong (a dzong is a fortress-monastery) that dominates the valley. It represents perhaps the finest example of distinctive Bhutanese architecture. This beautiful structure, like all dzongs in Bhutan, is both a religious institution and the seat of government affairs—a uniquely Bhutanese melding of church and state.
After lunch, drive to Thimphu, capital of Bhutan. Thimphu has a population of approximately 100,000, composed of monks, the royal family, government and civil service, and a growing middle class. Small and secluded, the city is exceptionally tranquil, despite recent signs of development. It evinces a strong traditional character in its architecture and is, remarkably, without traffic lights. The single light that was installed in 1999 was greeted with dismay: “ugly and impersonal” was the general consensus. The light was removed and the human traffic director put back in place.
After settling into your room, proceed to the Memorial Chorten to witness the faithful making their prayerful afternoon circumambulations. Built in 1974 to honor the memory of the beloved third king, the grandfather of the current monarch, this chorten is the focus of daily worship for many. Afterwards, walk to the nearby Zilukha nunnery for a rare nod at the role of women in the spiritual realm.
Overnight at the Druk Hotel - Thimphu
In the heart of Thimphu, the Druk offers 53 nicely appointed and recently renovated rooms. Modern amenities and facilities include a bar, business center, sauna, laundry service and satellite television.
Thursday, Apr. 18, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
Thimphu is the cultural heartland of Bhutan and this morning, you will be immersed in the traditions and arts and crafts of the valley. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, the excellent Textile Museum and the Handicrafts Emporium. Also visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (National Painting School), where government scholarships provide talented students the opportunity to learn traditional arts.
This afternoon continue touring based on the recommendations of your guide or enjoy some free time to shop and walk through the streets of Thimphu independently.
To finish the day, visit the Tashichhodzong, seat of royal, administrative and religious power in Bhutan. This capital building is the office of the reigning king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Here the king and the Je Khenpo (supreme religious leader) ruled side-by-side to provide for the welfare of their people’s secular and spiritual well-being. Democratic elections and reforms mandated by the last king in 2008 are propelling Bhutan into the modern era as a constitutional democracy. The king is still the head of the state, while the elected Prime Minister is the head of the government and occupies an office in the parliament building, located just across the river.
Interestingly, Bhutan’s unique approach to governance advocates a new paradigm for measuring the wealth of nations in terms that go beyond consumable goods as measured in Gross National Product. This concept is distilled into what the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, termed “Gross National Happiness,” which champions individual and environmental wellness over materialism. None other than The Economist magazine, in a 2009 issue, gave a nod to the remote Himalayan land as being on the forefront of a new way of thinking. It would thus appear that a journey to Bhutan signifies not so much a peek into the past as a glimpse of the future.
This evening enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at the Druk Hotel - Thimphu
Friday, Apr. 19, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
This morning, depart on an approximately 2.5 hour drive to the lower valley of Punakha. The journey crosses Dochhu La Pass where 108 stupas have been erected by the Queen Mother, including a magnificent temple, overlooking the stupas. Also stop to stretch your legs with a 20-minute walk on flat ground to Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility shrine built in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman.” Drukpa Kunley’s outrageous antics and sexual exploits are legendary, and he is a favorite among couples wanting children.
Arriving in Punakha, visit the Punakha Dzong, recently renovated due to damage caused by a fire in 1986. Traditional building techniques were used that eschew the use of nails, plans or power tools.
Overnight at the Zangtopelri Hotel - Punakha
Spectacularly located on a point high above the tranquil semi-tropical valley, the hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms in small cabins. Guests enjoy 220 degree views of rice terraces, the river, and the interplay of the dramatic and constantly changing Himalayan weather of the valley.
Saturday, Apr. 20, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
This morning depart Punakha on an approximately 6 hours drive to Trongsa. Before reaching Pele La Pass,take a detour to the Phobjikha Valley, a designated conservation area that borders Black Mountain National Park. It is here that the large flock of black-necked cranes stay over winter. It is also home to barking deer, wild boar, sambar, black bear, leopard and fox.
Visit the spectacularly situated Gangtey Goemba, sitting at the crest of the pristine Phobjikha Valley. This 400-year-old monastery possesses a special spiritual gravity. The entire area is quite tranquil, with its rolling hills and green meadows surrounded by snowcapped peaks. The monastery just completed a major renovation project and is beautiful.
Continue your drive across Pele La Pass (11,217 feet), which divides western Bhutan from central and eastern part of the country. Enjoy lunch at the Chendebji Restaurant.
Trongsa experienced a large influx of Tibetan immigrants in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Bhutanese of Tibetan descent have become well assimilated into Bhutanese society and run most of the shops in town. Once in Trongsa, visit the Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family. At one with an undulating ridgetop, it is arguably the most impressive dzong in the kingdom. The landscape around Trongsa is spectacular and the dzong can be seen for miles.
Overnight at the Yangkhil Resort – Trongsa
The Yangkhil Resort, located in the historic town of Trongsa, combines ultra modern rooms with traditional Bhutanese architecture. With verdant gardens, a fish pond and spectacular views of the Trongsa Dzong and Mandge River, this accommodation provides an unforgettable experience for guests.
Sunday, Apr. 21, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
This morning, drive approximately 1 hr to Kuenga Rabten, which has a sub-tropical weather and used to be the winter residence of the first two kings, when they ruled Bhutan from central Bhutan. This place is renowned for rich flora and variety of bird species, including very high possibility of spotting the Golden Languar, which is endemic to Bhutan. Spend the day exploring the area for some good photography and return to Trongsa for lunch.
En route, visit the beautiful Museum, housed in an ancient watchtower. After lunch, drive approximately 2.5 hours to Bumthang, stopping at the village of Zungney, well known for its distinctive yathra (wool) woven textiles. As you approach Chumey Valley, the first valley of Bumthang, the landscape changes to wide open space and cultivated plots.
Late this afternoon, arrive in Jakar, the trading center for the district.
Overnight at the Gongkhar Guest House - Bumthang
This small family-run lodge is clean and cozy and offers wonderful hospitality.
Monday, Apr. 22, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
After breakfast, embark on an approximately 90 minutes drive to the Ura valley with a picnic lunch to witness the community Ura Yakchoe festival here. This tsechu (Bhutanese festival) is not as well known as the festivals in Thimphu or Paro, hence it is all the more fascinating. As unobtrusive, welcomed guests, we’ll experience the true local character of the festivities. Dancers wearing ancient, magically charged masks and streaming costumes will perform throughout the day amidst swirling incense. The dances depict compassionate and wrathful deities, and are thought to bring blessings and protection to audience members.
Overnight at the Gongkhar Guest House - Bumthang
Tuesday, Apr. 23, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
This morning begin exploring the Bumthang Valley and its many amazing monuments. According to Bhutanese history books, Guru Rinpoche, the central figure in Tantric Buddhism, visited this valley in the 8th century. He hid treasures of enlightenment, or terma, throughout the valley and Bhutan. Once these terma are found by a “revealer of treasures” or terton, the benefit inherent in the treasure is dispersed. A monument is built to commemorate the great event. Kurjey Lhakhang, the monastery where Guru Rinpoche meditated, is one such place, and one can see the imprint of his body in the rock where he sat.
Visit Jambhay Lhakhang and the imposing Jakar Dzong (fortress monastery) for a beautiful view of the valley. Continue to a nearby shedra (monastic college) where the monks will demonstrate an interesting tool of study, the theological debate. The monks grill each other on the meaning of sacred texts. If a monk answers incorrectly, the others clap and the sound reverberates throughout the chamber. It’s good natured, boisterous fun, as well as a skillful way to delve into profound Buddhist philosophy.
End the day with a walk into the countryside passing buckwheat fields, temples and farmhouses. You will also have the opportunity to visit Tamshing Gompa, founded by the great “revealer of treasures,” Pema Lingpa. It contains exquisite paintings and statuary said to date back to the time of the great revealer himself.
Overnight at the Gongkhar Guest House - Bumthang
Wednesday, Apr. 24, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
Following breakfast transfer to the airport for our flight back to Paro.
Fly Bumthang to Paro on Druk Air KB 1001, departing 08:05, arriving 08:50
Economy Class
NOTE: Flights Bumthang to Paro operate on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Paro is astonishingly pastoral for the seat of an international airport: the airport road terminates in an archery field. Houses built in traditional style are painted with colorful designs. The sense of tranquil serenity that defines this land is apparent at once.
Transfer to your hotel and begin your exploration of Paro with the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the most sacred temples in Bhutan. Bhutanese history says that this temple was one of 108 temples built in a single day in 659, commissioned by Songtsen Gampo of Tibet. The specific purpose was to pin down an ogress who, covering all of Bhutan and Tibet, was impeding the spread of Buddhism in the area. Pilgrims come from all over the region to worship at this sacred site.
After lunch, drive to the end of the Paro Valley to see the picturesque ruins of the once massive Drukgyel Dzong. This fortress sits along a strategic route to Tibet and once provided protection from invasion from the north. From a vantage point on top of the ruins one can see the picturesque Paro Valley below and sacred Chomolhari Mountain above.
Overnight at the Zhi Waling - Paro
This beautiful property features traditional Bhutanese architecture while offering international standard facilities and luxury in a stunning environment. 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.
Thursday, Apr. 25, 2013
Meals Provided: B L D
Your journey to Bhutan culminates with a visit to one of the most venerated pilgrim sites in the Himalayan Buddhist world. Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), icon of Bhutan, clings to a cliff 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley floor. This dramatically situated and most sacred monastery is accessible by a round-trip walk (or pony ride) of about five to six hours.
Unfortunately a fire destroyed the main structure of Taktsang in 1998, but it has now been completely reconstructed and is as beautiful as ever. If you feel like only hiking halfway, there is a tea house midpoint on the hike with wonderful views. It is a great place to relax and have lunch.
This afternoon, drive to the end of the Paro Valley to see the picturesque ruins of the once massive Drukgyel Dzong. This fortress sits along a strategic route to Tibet and once provided protection from invasion from the north. From a vantage point on top of the ruins one can see the picturesque Paro Valley below and sacred Chomolhari Mountain above.
Return to your hotel to enjoy a farewell dinner.
Overnight at the Zhi Waling - Paro
Friday, Apr. 26, 2013
Meals Provided: B
This morning transfer back to the airport for your flight to Bangkok.
Fly Paro to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi on Druk Air KB 140, departing 10:50, arriving 16:15
Economy Class