Welcome to Bhutan!
Kirchoff Fitness Adventures provides a once in a lifetime experience in global travel that will not only challenge your body, but will open your mind and soul to other cultures. Our commitment to getting you physically prepared, along with giving back to the local communities around the world — will guarantee that when you travel with Kirchoff Fitness Adventures you will have a truly unique experience. Whether you are hiking in the Andes or Himalayas, cycling in Vietnam, climbing up Mt Kilimanjaro or Kayaking in Croatia — Kirchoff Fitness Adventures will deliver an unmatched global experience.
Emerald valleys, deep rhododendron forests, serene villages, exuberant festivals that honor the guardian deities — we invite you to experience a rare Himalayan world on this cultural and hiking adventure. This adventure and fitness experience has been crafted using only local guides so you can experience Bhutan in a truly authentic way. During your adventure you will discover not only Bhutan’s beautiful Himalayas but also discover the Kingdom of Bhutan’s unique heritage
Highlights include:
Kirchoff Fitness is teaming up with one of the only female trekking guides in Bhutan, Chhimi Dema who is eager to share her passion for her extraordinary country.
- Experience Paro Tsechu, one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan—a celebration by the locals held at a centuries-old monastery where intricate dance-dramas depict the world of demons and deities. Featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen in amazing masks and costumes, Tsechus (festivals) are one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan.
- Trek for 6 incredible days in the Yaksa Valley. Trekking is the most exhilarating and unforgettable way to experience the heart and soul of the Kingdom of Bhutan. With much of the kingdom covered with ancient forests and high alpine meadows, trekking in Bhutan will not only bring you closer to nature but it provide you with ample opportunities to meet rural people. You will be accompanied by Chhimi Bema, one of the only female trekking guides in Bhutan and other incredible local guides, a cook, camp hand and horsemen who look after the yaks and ponies that transport your luggage and camping gear. The crew will take care of all the camp chores and the cook will provide you with delicious, wholesome food!
- After spending several days on the mountain we will end our adventure at Norkhil Boutique Hotel and Spa which is conveniently located in the center of Thimphu. Norkhil Boutique Hotel and Spa is an oasis of calm offering peace and tranquility which offers holistic spa treatments, energizing organic cuisine all in an exceptionally beautiful environment.
| DAY | DATE | LOCATION / ACTIVITY |
|---|---|---|
| Day 01 | Sat, Apr 4, 2020 | Paro, Bhutan Arrive |
| Day 02 | Sun, Apr 5, 2020 | Paro Thimphu Paro Festival |
| Day 03 | Mon, Apr 6, 2020 | Thimphu Experience Bhutanese culture & history in the Capital City |
| Day 04 | Tues, Apr 7, 2020 | Thimphu Punakha Monastery Visit, Old Capital |
| Day 05 | Wed, Apr 8, 2020 | Punakha Paro Punkha Dzong, Suspension Bridge, Nunnery |
| Day 06 | Thurs, Apr 9, 2020 | Paro Tiger’s Nest — Acclimatization Hike |
| Day 07 | Fri, Apr 10, 2020 | Shana Soi Thangthangkha Trek Day 1 |
| Day 08 | Sat, Apr 11, 2020 | Soi Thangthangkha Jangothang Trek Day 2 |
| Day 09 | Sun, Apr 12, 2020 | Soi Thangthangkha Jangothang Trek Day 3 |
| Day 10 | Mon, Apr 13, 2020 | Jangothang Chora Trek Day 4 |
| Day 11 | Tues, Apr 14, 2020 | Chora Thombu Shong Trek Day 5 |
| Day 12 | Wed, Apr 15, 2020 | Thombu Shong Gunitsawa Trek Day 6 |
| Day 13 | Thurs, Apr 16,2020 | Thimphu Leisure Day |
| Day 14 | Fri, Apr 17, 2020 | Thimphu Depart |
Tour Summary: Itinerary in Brief
DAY 01 | SAT, APR 4, 20 20
Dinner
Olathang
Paro, Bhutan
ARRIVE TO PARO, BHUTAN
Arrive at Paro International Airport from Bangkok. Paro is situated in a beautiful valley at 2280 m (7240 ft) and is a fitting introduction to this charming kingdom. Your guide will meet you and take you to your hotel. Later if you would like to you can go for a stroll around Paro town and start to take in the atmosphere and culture of this beautiful country and its gentle way of life. Nearby you can also visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, a temple of historical significance and one of the most sacred shrines in Bhutan.
DAY 02 | SUN, APR 5, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thimphu Towers
Mask Dance at Paro Festival
PARO FESTIVAL
(We will have an option to do a short run around the city: 3-4 mi.)
Today you will visit Paro Festival, which takes place in the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. You will see locals dressed in their finest clothes who have walked from miles around to attend the festivities. They come to watch masked dances, to pray, and to feast. While the underlying purpose of the festival is spiritual, dances are more often like plays, telling stories where good triumphs over evil, or depicting significant historical events, especially surrounding the life of Bhutan’s patron saint, Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche). There is inevitably a great deal of socializing as well. The occasion provides an opportunity for people to relax and forget the daily routine, and to dress in their finest clothes and jewellery, but it is also an occasion for prayer and blessings.
Late afternoon take a one-hour drive along the Paro and Thimphu river valleys to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, at 2320 m (7612 ft). You can stop on the way to take in the magnificent Tamchhog Lhakhang, the hereditary place of worship for Bhutan’s iron bridge builder. In the evening walk around town and soak in the atmosphere of this magical capital with its busy shops and bazaarsand photogenic citizens in national dress.
DAY 03 | MON, APR 6, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thimphu Towers
Morning Prayers
THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING
We will visit the revered Memorial Chorten and the Changangkha temple, perched on the hilltop overlooking the town. Devotees flock throughout the day to circumambulate and turn the prayer wheels. The temple also contains beautiful wall paintings and hundreds of religious scriptures written in gold.
In the afternoon you can take in more of the sights and culture of the capital, with the option of a trip to Simtokha Dzong (one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan, dating from 1629 AD). If you prefer to stay closer to town you could visit the huge statue of Buddha Dordenma, which commands a tremendous view of Thimphu valley. The huge 3-storey throne holds several chapels and the body itself is filled with 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha. You can also visit the Takin Reserve showcasing the unique national animal, the Takin. If you wish you can go and see some archery at the national ground. If you would like to view or buy Bhutanese handicrafts you may like to visit the new market opposite Taj Tashi hotel which has an array of stalls run by local handicraft shops selling purely home made articles with no imports. The guide will discuss the plan for the day with the group.
Possible meeting with Director of non profit RENEW or visit to women owned tea shop.
DAY 04 | TUES, APR 7, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meri Puensum
Serigang Village
THIMPHU TASHIGANG GOMPA PUNAKHA
08:00 - Breakfast
Early this morning we will drive from Thimphu to just above Hongtsho below Dochu La where we will turn off along a farm road and drive about 30 minutes to Tashigang Gompa. Here you can visit the Gompa – about 30 monks live here during the warmer months. From the monastery walk up towards Lungchotse Gompa which will take about 2 hours. It is a perfect place to enjoy the bounties of nature. On a clear sunny day one can see the entire Bhutan Himalaya with its snow-covered peaks. Normally there is no caretaker at the Lhakhang, so you may not be able to go inside. From here you will walk down another 1.5 hours or so to Dochu La pass at 3050m/ 10,007 ft), where we will stop for a hot drink. The route is well shaded with rhododendron trees growing in abundance. The path is well padded with fallen leaves. In May and June when the flowers are in bloom it is a magical trek amidst the various hues of white, red, pink and purple. Then continue your drive approximately 2 hours to the old capital, Punakha, and you will notice the change of climate and vegetation as we approach lowlying Punakha at 1250 metres. On the way take a pleasant walk for an hour or so across the terraced fields of Sopsokha village to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine Madman’ (Lama Drukpa Kuenley).
DAY 05 | WED, APR 8, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Olathang
Punakha Dzong
PUNAKHA DZONG PARO
In the morning visit the imposing Punakha Dzong, “Palace of Great Happiness”. Built in 1637, it is strategically placed at the confluence of two rivers, the Po Chu and the Mo Chu. Then drive about 30 minutes and take a hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten via the village of Yebisa. The walk starts from the suspension bridge below Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten. Hike at a gentle pace for around 10 minutes from the bridge through the paddy rice fields of Yebisa village. Then continue the hike for around 40 to 50 minutes up to the temple. The walk is still fairly gentle but there are some steeper parts. From the top you will see a beautiful view of the valley and surrounding villages. The temple is 30 metres tall and is dedicated to the fifth King.
After visiting the temple descend for around 30 minutes until you reach the suspension bridge where you will be picked up by your car. In the afternoon there should be time to visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and then we return to Paro, a drive of approximately 4 hours.
DAY 06 | THURS, APR 9 , 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Paro
Tiger’s Nest
TIGER’S NEST — ACCLIMATIZATION HIKE
Today you can do an acclimatization hike to the ‘Tiger’s Nest’, the sacred Taktshang monastery which clings to the rock face 900 metres above the alley floor. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown to the site riding on a tigress. He subsequently meditated here for three months. It is one of Bhutan’s most holy sites and draws pilgrims not only from Bhutan but also from neighboring Buddhist countries. You can have lunch at the Taktshang cafeteria from where you get a spectacular view of the monastery.
This evening you can sort out your luggage for the trek. Anything you don’t need to carry with you will be kept safely in Paro to await your return.
Ascent/Descent: 900 meters above the valley floor
DAY 07 | FRI, APR 10 , 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Camp
Horses on Trek
TREK DAY 1: SHANA SOI THANGTHANGKHA
Early in the morning drive about 2 hours through farm road to Shana, where you will start your trek. The path from Shana ascends through the river valley with pine and rhododendron forests. On the way, there is a fantastic view of Mount Jomolhari. We will camp in a meadow with a stone shelter at an altitude of about 3860 m (12,664 ft). 2247 ft ascent (19 km/ 11.8 mi) 6 to 7 hours).
Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 19 km / 11.8 mi
Ascent/Descent: 2,247 ft ascent
DAY 08 | SAT, APR 11, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Camp
Camp
TREK DAY 2: SOI THANGTHANGKHA JANGOTHANG
The trail continues to follow the river and passes a small army post where the valley begins to widen again. Views of high ridges and snow-capped peaks can be seen on all sides. At this altitude (about 4040 m, 13,255 ft) it is possible to see yaks and yak herders. You can stop to visit a small local school at Soe, before reaching Jangothang. Camp is beneath a ruined fortress at the base of Mount Jomolhari.
Time: 6 hours
Distance: 19 km / 11.8 mi
Ascent/Descent: 1,542 ft ascent
DAY 09 | SUN, APR 12, 20 20
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Camp
Jomo Base
TREK DAY 3: REST DAY AT JANGOTHANG
It’s possible to hike in various directions: towards Mount Jomolhari and its subsidiary to the west, Jichu Drake to the north and unclaimed summits and ridges to the east.
DAY 10 | MON, APR 13, 20 20
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Camp
TREK DAY 4: JANGOTHANG CHORA
The trail leads north to the last settlement in the valley and drops to the Paro Chhu, crossing it on a wooden bridge. Switchback up the side of the hill to a large cirque and the lakes of Tshophu (4380m/ 14370 ft ), which is inhabited by a flock of ruddy shelducks. Climb high above the eastern side of the lake, passing a second lake as the trail climbs across a scree slope to a crest. Descend into a hidden valley and climb steeply to Bhonte La at 4890m/ 16,043 ft. From the pass the trail eventually switchbacks down to the Dhumzo Chhu and after you cross the river there is a short climb to a camp in a meadow at Chora at 3800m/12,467 ft.
Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 mi
Ascent/Descent: 2,657 ft ascent / 3,576 ft descent
DAY 11 | TUES, APR 14, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Camp
TREK DAY 5: CHORA THOMBU SHONG
The trail climbs 100m over a ridge, then drops to another stream. Crossing that stream, the trail heads up the hillside, dropping into a small side valley before emerging onto a ridge. Here the route turns south, ascending past a few huts to Takhung La (4520m/ 14,829 ft). A short descent leads to Thombu Shong, with three yak herders’ huts. We camp at Thombu Shong at 4180m.
Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Ascent/Descent: 1,640 ft ascent / 3,281 ft descent
DAY 12 | WED, APR 15, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa
Jangothang
TREK DAY 6: THOMBHU SHONG GUNITSAWA
Climb out of the valley to Thombu La at 4380 (14,370 ft), then drop gradually to about 4000m. The trail then makes a steep descent, switch-backing down the ridge, finally reaching the helipad at Gunitsawa (2730m/8956 ft) from where your driver can meet you to return to Thimphu.
Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 13 km / 8.1 mi
Ascent/Descent: 2,427 ft ascent / 3,281 ft descent
DAY 13 | THURS, APR 16, 2020
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa
Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa
LEISURE DAY IN THIMPHU
Today will be a leisure day in Thimphu. You can stroll around, visit some local shops and cafés, hunt for souvenirs or just take it easy. Your guide will be on hand to suggest something for those who want to see some sights. You may be interested to visit Zilukha nunnery.
This evening we can find some entertainment — perhaps a karaoke bar or a local nightclub, depending on what interests the group.
DAY 14 | FRI, APR 17, 2020
Breakfast
DEPART THIMPHU
Early in the morning your guide will accompany you to the airport to see you off onto your flight and wish you Tashi Delek (goodbye and good luck).
Trip Cost & Payment
TOUR COST INCLUDES:
- Expert leadership of a local guide
- Fitness Training guidance from Chris
- Group hikes/workouts
- Accommodations: please note that rooms with double beds are usually not available in Bhutan. Most lodge rooms are twin-bedded.
- All meals included
- Government taxes and fees
- Land transportation, airport transfers for passengers as noted
- All tours and activities mentioned in the itinerary, including entrance fee
- ‘Trekking equipment includes two-person tent, air mattress (Note that sleeping bags are not provided.)
TOUR COST EXCLUDES:
- International airfare
- Airport transfers for individual arrival or departure, airport departure taxes
- Optional tipping or gratuities to leaders or staff
- Additional hotel nights that may be necessitated by airline schedule changes or other factors
- Pre-trip expenses of medical immunizations (if any)
- Travel insurance, or passports and visas
- Soft drinks and alcohol
TRIP COST
- $5,550 (10-14 members)
- Single supplement: $680
- Internal Airfare: see last page for 2019 (subject to change)
- Bhutan Visa Fee: $50 (Kirchoff Fitness acquires Visa for you)
To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
At time of reservation: $750 deposit
90 days prior to departure: $4,800 (balance due)
CANCELLATION & TRANSFER FEE SCHEDULE
Up to 91 days prior to departure: Amount of deposit
61-90 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
46-60 days prior to departure: 65% of trip cost
45 days or less: 100% of trip cost
CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE
Because the prices published for our program are set so far in advance of the trip dates, we are occasionally faced with exceptional cost increases and/or currency fluctuations that affect the actual cost of running the trip. In most years, no price changes are necessary. However, we do reserve the right to raise or lower the trip price if there is a significant change in costs or exchange rates. If this is the case, your final invoice will reflect the difference in trip cost.
VISA
All travelers must have a valid passport with minimum 6 months validity. We organize visas for Bhutan — we require scanned copies of the passports for each member of the group.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. We highly recommend coverage for medical expenses, baggage loss, and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for nonrefundable payments should you need to cancel your trip due to a covered sickness or injury to yourself, a traveling companion, or family member, or for other unforeseen circumstances. It is a condition of booking that the sole responsibility lies with the traveler to ensure that they carry the correct comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover themselves, as well as any dependents and traveling companions for the duration of their trip to Bhutan. Kirchoff Fitness will take no responsibility for any costs for loss of personal luggage, money, and goods, medical expenses, theft, damage or cancellation or curtailment of the adventure. The traveler will be charged directly by the relevant service provider for any emergency services they may require.
