Bhutan International Marathon Tour - 7 Days | 6 Nights
US$ 2200 / Per Person
Group Size: 2 & above
Highlights
- Marathon race route passes through villages, forests and farmlands.
- Profits made through this event will support Bhutan’s Youth and Olympic Sports programs
- Explore the key cultural sites of western and central Bhutan.
- Discover some of the most sacred monasteries, medieval fortresses and temples.
- Visit to Switzerland of Bhutan.
- Visit local farm house and taste Bhutanese cuisine.
- Hike to Tiger’s Nest
Bhutan International Marathon is divided into two categories: 42-kilometre Full Marathon from Tashithang in Gasa and Half Marathon 21-kilometre from Khabisa to Punakha Dzong. The route passes through villages, forests and farmlands and even walk on 180 meter suspension bridge across the river also constitutes a part of the marathon route.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 (1 March, Wednesday) : Paro
During the journey, one will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by your guide and transfer you farm house in Paro. On arrival to farm house you will greeted by the family of the farm house. Visiting a farm house offers a good glimpse into the lifestyle of a farmer. Later in the afternoon you will visit Paro Dzong. It was built in 17th century and now houses government offices and religious institutions. Then you will visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 8th century. In the evening you can stroll in the paro town. Overnight at hotel in Paro.
Day 2 ( 2 March, Thursday) : Paro – Punakha
After breakfast this morning, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha. The road leads trough the Paro valley to the confluence of Paro and Thimphu. On the way you will, you will stop for tea at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas. You will visit the Druk Wangyel Monastery, which is the only of its kind in the country with elaborate painting depicting the linage of the present Monarchy and their visionary works. From the pass, drive downhill through the forests of rhododendron, fir and hemlock. You will arrive Punakha after traversing through rice field and along the bank of Punakha River. On the way to Punakha, you will stop at Metsina village and take a 20 minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, which is a fertility temple. Overnight hotel in Punakha.
Day 3: (3 March, Friday) : Punakha
After breakfast, you will drive to Damchen Resort in Khuruthang for Packet Pick Up and also for pre-race briefing. Later in the afternoon, visit the Punakha Dzong, which is stunningly situated inbetween the male and female rivers like an anchored ship. Overnight hotel in Punakha
Day 4: (4 March. Saturday) : Punakha Marathon Race
Today you will participate in Bhutan International Marathon, followed by the prize award ceremony.
Day 5 (5 March, Sunday) : Punakha – Thimphu
Today breakfast, you will drive to Thimphu via Dochula pass. You will visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan); visit the mini zoo where you will see national animal of Bhutan Takin, and the majestic Tashichhodzong, visit Buddha statue, which is presumed to be the largest Bronze statue in the world. The three storied high throne of the statue will consists of temples on each floor. Traditional paper factory, visit Post office were you can personalize your stamp, Traditional Paper Factory, Evening: Stroll through the town. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Day 6 (6 March, Monday) : Paro-Thimphu, Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Today after early breakfast, you will drive to Paro then Hike to Taktsang(Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. The Moanstery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. Lunch will be served at the Cafeteria. Explore the monastery and hike back to the valley. In the evening visit a traditional farmhouse and if you wish, enjoy a typical Bhutanese dinner. Overnight hotel in Paro.
Day 7 (7 March, Tuesday) : Depart Paro
Drive to the airport for departure. Our representative will bid you farewell.
At a Glance
Tour duration: 7 days | 6 Nights
Tour type: Cultural tour with International Marathon
Event date: 4 March 2023
Activity type: Cultural tour, Marathon race, Historical sites, Religious sites and Day hike
Places covered: Thimphu, Punakha and Paro
Maximum elevation: 3150m
Inclusions
- All meals
- Tea, coffee and snacks
- Complementary bottled water in car
- Hotels
- Transport
- Guide
- Government levy
- Visa fee
- Permits
- Sightseeing
Exclusions
- Flight tickets
- Insurance
- Tips
- Beverages other than tea and coffee
- Sleeping bag on trek
- Laundry
- Internet bill
- Phone bill
- Other bills of personal nature
Accommodation
- Accommodation in 3 star hotels (upgrade with supplement)
- Homestay accommodation certified by Tourism Council Bhutan
- Camping (optional)
Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
