Excursion Mid-voyage land adventure: the dragon kingdom of bhutan tour at Singapore

Discover spectacular Bhutan, a world as beautiful and pristine as it is mysterious, during this captivating, six-night overland excursion to the 'Dragon Kingdom'. During your journey to this storybook Buddhist kingdom on the eastern edge of the Himalayas, explore its most revered and iconic landmarks. Whilst in Thimphu, visit the Semtokha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, and Takin Preserve, tour the Folk Heritage and Textile museums, take an easy hike to Wangditse, produce your own stamp at the Bhutan Postal Museum, observe the ancient papermaking process at the Paper Factory, and visit the National Memorial Chorten. During your visit to Paro, experience highlights that include Dumtseg & Kyichung Lhakhang, National Museum of Paro, Paro Dzong Fortress, an exhilarating hike up to the Taktshang Goempa (Tiger's Nest) with a private barbecue lunch at its base, the Old Town, a cultural dance performance, and wearing traditional Bhutanese costumes.

(06MIDSIN-E) The Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan

Duration: 7 Days/6 Nights

Departs from: Singapore, Singapore on Saturday, March 23, 2024

Re-join ship: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam on Friday, March 29, 2024

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 120 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

VISA INFORMATION:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Bhutan. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

Thailand and Vietnam: It is each guest's responsibility to obtain visa for these two countries if required. For Thailand, multiple visas are needed, as you will stay in Bangkok before-and-after the trip to Bhutan.

Bhutan: Tourist visas are required for all travellers and must be obtained prior to arriving in Bhutan. Silversea will coordinate with local ground operator for the visa process. which takes at least 14 working days. Once approved, the visa clearance number will be sent to the ship. The actual visa will be stamped on arrival in Bhutan. A passport valid for at least six months following date of the arrival in Bhutan is required.

Important Notice: Valid travel insurance is now required for Bhutan visa processing, and is a must to ensure worry-free travel. Amankora highly recommends purchasing travel insurance from a recognized agent or insurance provider to cover any cancellation eventualities, including cancellations based on medical grounds, professional commitments, and/or travel interruptions.

LOCAL CURRENCY:

The local currency is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN); however, Indian Rupees (INR), Euros and US Dollars are well-accepted by most vendors. Local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels (there is no shopping stop planned during the program).

Discover spectacular Bhutan, a world as beautiful and pristine as it is mysterious, during this captivating, six-night overland excursion to the 'Dragon Kingdom'.

DAY ONE - Saturday, March 23, 2024 - Singapore/Bangkok

Disembark the ship and transfer to Singapore Changi Airport for your scheduled flight to Bangkok

After disembarking the ship, meet your guide and transfer to the Singapore Changi Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately two-hour, 35-minute, early-evening, Singapore Airlines flight departing at approximately 5:10 p.m. and arriving in Bangkok at approximately 6:45 p.m. (Please be advised that flights may be changed by the local supplier at any time, and without our control, due to operational reasons. The final flights' details will be confirmed once onboard).

Upon arrival in Bangkok, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in and some free time

Upon arriving at Bangkok Airport and after passport and visa formalities, meet your guide, and transfer to your hotel for check-in and some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the hotel.

Overnight accommodations in an Executive Room at the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel - Bangkok  

DAY TWO - Sunday, March 24, 2024 - Bangkok/Paro/Thimphu

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Paro

After an early-morning breakfast at the hotel and check-out, meet your guide and begin your fascinating trip to the Dagon Kingdom of Bhutan. Transfer to Bangkok Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately three-hour, 15-minute, morning Drukair flight departing at approximately 6:00 a.m. and arriving at Paro, Bhutan's only international airport, at approximately 8:15 a.m. (Please be advised that flights may be changed by the local supplier at any time, and without our control, due to operational reasons. The final flights' details will be confirmed once onboard).

During your descent, experience breath-taking panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks

The flight into Paro is one of the most spectacular in the world. During your descent into this remote land, experience breath-taking panoramic vistas of the Himalayan peaks.

About Paro

The beautiful valley of Paro encapsulates within itself a rich culture, scenic beauty, and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum, and country's only airport. The approximately 23,996-foot-high (about 7,314-metre-high) Mount Chomolhari reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley, and its glacial waters plunge through deep gorges to form the Paro Chhu (Paro River). Paro is also one of the most fertile valleys in the Kingdom, producing a bulk of the locally-famous red rice from its terraced fields.

Upon arrival in Paro, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in Thimphu for check-in and lunch

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport and after passport and visa formalities, meet with your local Amankora guide and depart for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Upon arrival in Thimphu, proceed to the Amankora Resort Thimphu for check-in and lunch.

About Thimphu

Nestled in a steep valley at an altitude of approximately 7,709 feet (about 2,350 metres), Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan, and the centre of government, religion, and commerce. This unique city is home to an eclectic blend of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one might necessarily expect from a capital city, Thimphu is nonetheless a robust, lively destination. Home to civil servants, expatriates, and a monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style.

Visit the Semtokha Dzong and Buddha Dordenma Statue, which overlooks the Thimphu Valley

After lunch at the resort, meet your guide and depart for the Semtokha Dzong. Upon arrival, marvel at its inspiring architecture and impressive location. Continue on for a visit to the Buddha Dordenma Statue, an enormous statue of Lord Buddha perched atop a hill and overlooking the entire Thimphu Valley.

Tour the Royal Takin Preservation Centre, a preserve for the national animal of Bhutan

During the return drive to the resort, a stop is made at the Royal Takin Preservation Centre. Originally a mini-zoo, it was converted into a preserve for the takin, the national animal of Bhutan (supposed to have the body of a cow and head of a goat). The Royal Takin Preservation Centre features a large area covered with pine forest. Following your day's activities, re-board your coach and transfer back to the hotel for some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the resort.

Overnight accommodations in a Suite at the Amankora Resort - Thimphu   

Please note: Subject to room availability, the official check-in time is 2 p.m. at the Amankora Resort.

DAY THREE - Monday, March 25, 2024 - Thimphu/Paro

After breakfast, take a scenic drive and hike to Wangditse, and see the Trashi Chhoe Dzong

After an early-morning breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and depart for a scenic drive north along a peaceful road to the Radio Tower. Upon arrival, your guide escorts you on an easy hike. Your route follows along the tower fence, then passes a chorten and follows the contours along the mountain-side until reaching Wangditse. En route, take in exquisite views of the Trashi Chhoe Dzong.

Stop by Wangditse Goemba to view the statues of the guardian deities  

Wangditse Goemba was founded in 1750 by the attendants of Bhutan's 8th desi, Yeshey Rabgye. It was renovated in 2002, after suffering serious damage in a windstorm in 1995. The goemba houses the statues of the guardian deities Yeshey Gonpo (Mahakala), Palden Lhamo (Mahakali), and Tsheringma (the Goddess of Longevity).

Explore Bhutanese traditions and artefacts at the Folk Heritage Museum and Royal Textile Academy

Next, re-board your coach and transfer to the Folk Heritage Museum. This museum houses a rich collection of equipment, tools, household objects, and artefacts from rural households, all of which offer a glimpse of the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle. Afterward, re-board your coach and continue on for a visit to the Royal Textile Academy, a national textile museum exhibiting a huge collection of antique textile artefacts.

Drive back to the resort for lunch and check-out

Following your visit, re-board your coach and return to the resort for lunch and check-out.

This afternoon, visit the Bhutan Postal Museum and make a stamp of your own

Your afternoon excursion begins with a guided visit to Bhutan Postal Museum. Upon arrival, view a vibrant display of artefacts and unique stamps that narrate the history and postal journey of Bhutan. During your visit, enjoy an opportunity to produce a Bhutan stamp with your own photo as a unique souvenir from Bhutan.

Discover the ancient process of papermaking and stop by the National Memorial Chorten

Leaving the Postal Museum, re-board your coach and head to the Jungshi Paper Factory. During your guided visit, observe the complete ancient process of papermaking. Before heading back to Paro, your final stop is the National Memorial Chorten, built in the traditional Tibetan style of architecture and regarded as the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan.

Drive back to Paro for check-in at the Amankora Resort and some free time to freshen-up

Leaving the Chorten, re-board your coach and commence the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour return drive to Paro. Upon arrival in Paro, head back to the Amankora Resort for check-in and some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the resort.

Overnight accommodations in a Suite at the Amankora Resort - Paro

DAY FOUR - Tuesday, March 26, 2024 - Paro

After breakfast at the hotel, visit one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and depart for a day of sightseeing in Paro. Your first stop is at the Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Built in 1421 by the Tibetan saint Thangthong Gyelpo, it is the only temple in the form of a stupa.

Explore the rich culture and heritage of the kingdom at the National Museum of Paro

Next, re-board your coach and head to the National Museum of Paro, where an intriguing collection of artefacts provides a wonderful introduction to the rich culture and heritage of the kingdom.

Tour the fortress of Paro Dzong, featured in the Keanu Reeve's film, Little Buddha

Your tour continues with a visit to the Paro Dzong. Built to defend Paro from the Tibetan invasion, this fortress is also known as Rinpung Dzong, the 'Fortress of a Heap of Jewels'. This fine example of Bhutanese architecture now serves as a central monastic and administrative seat of the Paro District. In 1993, the Paro Dzong had its first Hollywood appearance when the Keanu Reeves film, Little Buddha, was partially filmed here.

After lunch, visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, a sacred, old, 7th-century temple

Following your visit, transfer back to the resort for lunch. After lunch, meet your guide and re-board your private car for a visit to another sacred, old temple, Kyichu Lhakhang, which dates from the 7th century, when the seed of Buddhism was planted in Bhutan. Afterward, transfer back to the resort for some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the resort.

Overnight accommodations in a Suite at the Amankora Resort - Paro

DAY FIVE - Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Paro

Breakfast at the hotel and a hike to the Tiger's Nest, one of Bhutan's most revered monuments

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and depart for the drive to the Taktshang Goempa (Tiger's Nest), one of Bhutan's most revered monuments. It literally hangs off the face of a cliff approximately 2,950 feet (about 900 metres) above the valley floor. Legend states that Guru Rinpoche flew into Bhutan on a mythical tigress and meditated in a cave before bringing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Taktshang Goempa is built around the cave, which is opened to the public once a year on the 30th of the fifth month of the Bhutanese calendar. This guided, four-five-hour round-trip hike offers spectacular panoramic views of the Goempa and valley below.

Please note: Horses or mules can be arranged upon request to help lighten your journey. We recommend starting the hike early, at 7 a.m. before the crowds arrive, to enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the monastery.

Dine on a private barbecue lunch in a lovely riverside meadow at the base of the Tiger's Nest

Following your challenging hike to the most revered and iconic symbol of Bhutan, proceed for a private barbecue lunch in a lovely riverside meadow at the base of the Tiger's Nest. Enjoy a selection of grilled meats, vegetables, and other specialities, with a bar set up with your choice of refreshing beverages. After lunch, some free time is made available to relax amidst your serene surrounds or take a stroll around Paro's Old Town. Following your visit, re-board your coach and transfer back to the resort.

This evening, you are invited to a special farewell dinner served al fresco in the lovely forest

This evening, meet your guide and depart for a farewell dinner in the forest. Amidst the resort's pine forest and calming sounds of the brooks and stream flowing through the forest, you are invited to dine under the stars. Dinner tables are set on a lush clearing beside moss-covered rocks and under the canopy of Himalayan blue pine trees, a fragrant pine species endemic to Bhutan.

You may opt to dine under a Bhutanese Dragon Tent, an embroidered, intimately-lit ceremonial tent

As an option, your dinner can be set under an intricately embroidered, traditional Bhutanese ceremonial tent. The Bhutanese Dragon Tent is gently lit with stringed lights and numerous flickering lanterns across the forest. Many candles and traditional Bhutanese music enhance the warmth and ambience of this unique setting. Comfortable woollen shawls, fabric-wrapped hot water bottles, and heaters hidden under table are arranged to keep you warm on chillier evenings.

Enjoy a traditional dance performance and dinner with Amankora signature cocktails

Upon arrival, take in a traditional dance performance whilst enjoying Amankora signature cocktails and canapés, followed by a traditional Bhutanese dinner prepared by our in-house Bhutanese chef.

Overnight accommodations in a Suite at the Amankora Resort - Paro

DAY SIX - Thursday, March 28, 2024 - Paro/Bangkok

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Bangkok

After breakfast at the resort and check-out, bid farewell to Bhutan. Meet your guide and transfer to Paro International Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately three-hour, 10-minute, morning Drukair flight departing at approximately 11:50 a.m. and arriving at Bangkok Airport at approximately 4:00 p.m. (Please be advised that flights may be changed by the local supplier at any time, and without our control, due to operational reasons. The final flights' details will be confirmed once onboard).

Upon arrival in Bangkok, transfer to your hotel for check-in and the rest of the afternoon at leisure

Upon arrival and after passport and visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in and dinner.

Enjoy a sumptuous Thai dinner with a classical dance performance at your hotel

This evening, conclude your seven-day overland excursion in grand style with a sumptuous Thai, set-menu dinner accompanied by a classical dance performance at the Shangri-La Hotel's Salathip restaurant.

Overnight accommodations in a Deluxe, River-View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel - Bangkok

DAY SEVEN - Friday, March 29, 2024 - Bangkok/Ho Chi Minh

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Bangkok Airport for your scheduled flight to Ho Chi Minh

After breakfast and check-out, meet your guide and transfer via private coach to Bangkok Airport for check-in and your scheduled, approximately one-hour, 45-minute, morning Vietnam Airlines flight departing at approximately 11:20 a.m. and arriving in Ho Chi Minh at approximately 1:05 p.m. (Please be advised that flights may be changed by the local supplier at any time, and without our control, due to operational reasons. The final flights' details will be confirmed once onboard).

Transfer to the pier and ship

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh and after passport and visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the port. Upon arrival at the pier, embark and ship.  

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 7.5 miles (about 12 kilometres), at times over uneven, gravel, cobblestone, sandy, rocky, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coaches and board/de-board the planes, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is recommended for active guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with a fear of heights, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing (short-sleeved shirts and long pants), with flat, non-slip, and closed-toe walking shoes and sneakers, and bring sun protection, sunglasses with a strap, insect repellent, a weatherproof jacket, raingear, small backpack for land visits (for cameras, bottled water, etc.), camera, plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry, medications, binoculars, and local currency and/or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. Proper attire is required to enter the temples, monasteries, and pagodas; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. As a rule, women should not wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Shoes and hats must be removed prior to entering religious sites. Since the pavement is very hot, guests are advised to bring along a thick pair of socks to wear. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.

Infrastructure in Bhutan is basic, and local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in Bhutan is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring nations. Unfortunately, this is reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Vehicles, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. Expect crowds and lines at the sites visited, particularly on public and religious holidays. Guests should be respectful towards local sentiments and customs. Photography/videography is prohibited inside the monasteries and dzongs. Leave all valuables on board. In Bhutan, a private car with separate, English-speaking guide is provided for each room. A private van can be arranged for guests who would like to travel together (subject to availability). A private coach will be provided for airport transfer in Bangkok. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence, timings and itinerary may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

• One-night stay in an Executive Room at the Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel - Bangkok
• One-night stay in a Suite at the Amankora Resort Thimphu - Thimphu
• Three-night stay in a Suite at the Amankora Resort - Paro
• One-night stay in a Deluxe, River-View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel - Bangkok      

Scheduled flights: Singapore/Bangkok, Bangkok/Paro, Paro/Bangkok, Bangkok/Ho Chi Minh (Economy-Class). Business-Class is available upon request at an additional charge and subject to availability, as most aircraft do not offer business seating

Singapore Airlines restricts baggage allowance to approximately 66 pounds (about 30 kilograms) per person, + one carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of approximately 15 pounds (about seven kilograms), and a maximum sum of the three dimensions not to exceed approximately 45 inches (about 115 centimetres). Supplement for excess luggage is to be paid directly at the check-in counter. Passengers with more than approximately 22 pounds (about 10 kilograms) of excess luggage must check-in at least 90 minutes prior to departure. Maximum weight per item: approximately 66 pounds (about 30 kilograms)

Druk Air restricts baggage allowance to approximately 66 pounds (about 30 kilograms) per person, + one carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of approximately 12 pounds (about five kilograms), and a maximum size of approximately 15x13x7 inches (about 40x35x20 centimetres). Supplement for excess luggage is to be paid directly at the check-in counter. Passengers with more than approximately 22 pounds (about 10 kilograms) of excess luggage must check-in at least 90 minutes prior to departure. Maximum weight per item: approximately 66 pounds (about 30 kilograms)

Vietnam Airlines restricts baggage allowance to approximately 50 pounds (about 23 kilograms) per person, + one carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of approximately 22 pounds (about 10 kilograms) plus one accessory, and a maximum sum of the three dimensions not to exceed size of approximately 45 inches (about 115 centimetres). Supplement for excess luggage is to be paid directly at the check-in counter. Passengers with more than approximately 22 pounds (about 10 kilograms) of excess luggage must check-in at least 90 minutes prior to departure. Maximum weight per item: approximately 50 pounds (about 23 kilograms)

• Six breakfasts, five lunches and six dinners, with drinks included
• Thimphu Valley Semtokha Dzong, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Takin Preserve, Wangditse Hike, Folk Heritage Museum, Textile Museum, produce your own stamp at the Bhutan Postal Museum, ancient papermaking process at the Paper Factory, National Memorial Chorten - Thimphu
• Dumtseg & Kyichung Lhakhang, National Museum of Paro, Paro Dzong Fortress, Taktshang Goempa (Tiger's Nest), Old Town, cultural dance performance, wearing traditional Bhutanese costumes - Paro
• Guided hike up to the Taktshang Goempa (Tiger's Nest) - Paro
• Private barbecue lunch in a riverside meadow at the base of the Tiger's Nest - Paro
• Farewell dinner in the forest with traditional dance performance and Amankora signature cocktails - Paro
• Thai dinner with classical dance performance at the Salathip restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel - Bangkok
• Complimentary, one-hour Amankora holistic massage and yoga session at the Aman Spa - Paro
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Visas, any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance and other personal items.