Getting To Bhutan


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Since Bhutan is a landlocked country, there are either two ways to get into Bhutan….. By Road or by flight. 

Flying Into Bhutan

Paro international airport is situated at a height of 2,225 m (7300 ft) above sea level and is surrounded by mountains as high as 4,876 m (16,000 ft). 

At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. 

There are domestic airports in Yonphula in eastern Bhutan, Bumthang in central Bhutan, and Gelephu in south-central Bhutan. 

The International sectors in which airlines from Bhutan operates are as follows : 

  1. Singapore ( Twice a week )
  2. Kathmandu ( Daily )
  3. Dhaka ( Daily )
  4. Delhi ( Daily )
  5. Kolkatta ( Daily )
  6. Bagdogra ( Twice a week )
  7. Guwahati ( Twice a week )
  8. Gaya ( Seasonal )

Special charter flight as per request.

Yelha Bhutan Tours also has special charter flight service to Vietnam ( Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City ) , Hong Kong, Malaysia ( Kuala Lumpur ) and any city in Asia and as per demands of clients.

Charter service airbus fleet : Airbus A319, ATR

Luxury Jets fleet: Falcon 2000x, Cessna Citation Jet, Gulfstream G150, Learjet 45XR, Eclipse 500, Embraer Phenom 300 etc. 

Only DrrukAir & Bhutan Airlines operates in Kingdom of Bhutan
Entering By Road Via India

Bhutan is bordered by India in the south therefore the Bhutan border towns of Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar are the only land gateways areas open to tourists coming via India.

The town of Phuentsholing in south-west is located approximately 170 km east of the Indian national airport at Bagdogra. After crossing Phuentsholing, you begin your journey to Thimphu, the capital city with travel time of about six hours for the 170 km stretch.

Gelephu in south-central Bhutan is another entry point to Bhutan. It is approximately 250 kms from Thimphu and the journey will take you through the sub-tropical areas of Bhutan before entering the alpine zone and then finally into Thimphu. One will have to traverse across three districts and the travel time will be about ten hours.

The district of Samdrup Jongkhar in south-east Bhutan borders the Indian district of Darranga, Assam and is approximately 150 kms away from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. 

The journey from Guwahati is about three hours. Tourists entering Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar will take you to Trashigang, and from there over the lateral route to Monggar, Bumthang, Trongsa, Wangdue Phodrang and then finally into capital, Thimphu. The distance is about 700 kms and will take you a minimum of three days to reach Thimphu.

Bhutan Festivals Calendar 2021


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Festivals in the Land of the Thunder Dragon are rich and happy expressions of its ancient Buddhist culture.

These festivals are held in all districts in honor of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Tsechus are held on auspicious days and months in the Bhutanese calendar, and last up to four days in which a series of highly staylish masked dance rituals are performed. 

Festivals are also a big family and social occasions. People dress up in their finest clothes and most resplendent jewelry of coral and turquoise. They pack picnic lunches in their traditional bamboo baskets and stay all day at the festivals which are usually held in the dzongs (fortresses) or at monasteries. 

Behind the scenes, the monks prepare themselves for weeks ahead of the festival, involved in deep prayer and meditation prior to the festival. The monks perform special masked dances that are inspirations of enlightened beings in history; and the Bhutanese believe that watching these mystical dances is essential to gain enlightenment.

Book you Bhutan festival tour now
SL/NOFESTIVALSPLACESDATES
1Punakha DrubchenPunakha Dzong, Punakha2nd – 4th March
2Punakha TshechuPunakha Dzong, Punakha5th – 7th March
3Tharpaling ThongdrolTharpaling Lhakhang, Chumi, Bumthang9th March
4Chhorten KoraChorten Kora, Trashiyangtshe9th March & 24th March
5GomphukoraGom Kora Lhakhang, Trashigang1st -3rd April
6
Talo Tshechu
Talo Gonpa, Punakha1st -3rd April
7
Gasa Tshechu
Gasa Dzong, Gasa1st -3rd April
8Zhemgang Tshechu
Zhemgang Dzong, Zhemgang
1st -3rd April
9Paro TshechuRinpung Dzong, Paro4th -8th April – (Thongdral on last day)
10Rhododendron FestivalLamperi Botanical Garden, Dochula, Thimphu17th – 19th April
11Domkhar TshechuDomkhar, Chumni, Bumthang2nd -4th May
12Ura YakchoeUra Lhakhang, Bumthang4th – 8th May
13Nimalung TshechuNimalung Dratshang,
Chumni, Bumthang
28th – 30th June
14
Kurjey Tshechu
Kurjey Lhakhang,
Choekhor, Bumthang
30th June
15Haa Summer FestivalHaa11th – 12th July
16Mushroom FestivalGenekha, Thimphu.15th & 16th Aug
17Tour of the Dragon (Bicycle Race)Bumthang to Thimphu5th Sept
18Thimphu DrubchenTashi Chhodzong, Thimphu22nd Sept
19Wangdue TshechuTencholing Army Ground,
Wangduephodrang.
24th – 26th Sept
20Tamshing Phala ChhoepaTamshing lhakhang,
Bumthang
26th – 28th Sept
21Thimphu TshechuTashi Chhodzong, Thimphu26th – 28th Sept
22Gangtey TshechuGangtey Gonpa,
Phobjikha, Wangduephodrang.
29th Sept– 1st Oct
(Thongdrel on last day)
23Thangbi MewangTangbi Lhakhang, Choekor,
Bumthang
30th Sept– 2nd Oct
24Jhomolhari Mountain FestivalDangochong, Thimphu14th & 15th Oct
25Royal Highland FestivalLaya, Gasa23th – 24th Oct
26Chhukha TshechuChhukha Dzong, Chhukha24th – 26th Oct
27Jakar TshechuJakar Dzong, Choekhor,
Bumthang.
23th -27th Oct
(thongdrel on 26th)
28Jambay Lhakhang DrupJambay Lhakhang,
Choekhor, Bumthang
31st Oct -3rd Nov
29Prakhar DuchhoedPrakar Khakhang, Chumig,
Bumthang
1st – 3rd Nov
30Dechenphu TshechuDechenphu Lhakhang,
Thimphu
26th October
31Black Necked Crane FestivalGangtey Gonpa, Phobjikha,
Wangduephodrang.
11th Nov
32Bhutan Bird FestivalTingtibi, Zhemgang11th –13th Nov
33Mongar TshechuMongar Dzong, Mongar22nd – 24th Nov
34Trashigang TshechuTrashigang Dzong,
Trashigang.
22nd -24th Nov
35Jambay Lhakhang Singye ChamJambay Lhakhang,
Choekhor, Bumthang
30th Nov
36Pemagatshel TshechuPemagatshel Dzong,
Pemagatshel.
21st – 24th Nov
(Thongdrel on last day)
37Nalakhar TshechuNgaa Lhakhang, Choekhor,
Bumthang
30th Nov– 2nd Dec
38
Druk Wangyel Tshechu
Douchula,
Thimphu
Douchula,
Thimphu
39Trongsa TshechuTrongsa Dzong,
Trongsa
23rd -25th Dec
(Thongdrel on last day)
40Lhuentse TshechuLhuentse Dzong,
Lhuentse
23rd – 25th Dec
(Thongdrel on last day)
41Nabji Lhakhang DrupNabji Lhakhang, Nabji,
Trongsa
29th –31st Dec (Mewang on 1st January 2021)

Bhutan Festival 2021


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Festivals are also a big family and social occasions. People dress up in their finest clothes and most resplendent jewelry of coral and turquoise. They pack picnic lunches in their traditional bamboo baskets and stay all day at the festivals which are usually held in the dzongs (fortresses) or at monasteries. 

Behind the scenes, the monks prepare themselves for weeks ahead of the festival, involved in deep prayer and meditation prior to the festival. The monks perform special masked dances that are inspirations of enlightened beings in history; and the Bhutanese believe that watching these mystical dances is essential to gain enlightenment.

Book you Bhutan festival tour now.
SL/NOFESTIVALSPLACESDATES
1Punakha DrubchenPunakha Dzong, Punakha19th – 21st February
2Punakha TshechuPunakha Dzong, Punakha22nd -24th February
3Tharpaling ThongdrolTharpaling Lhakhang, Chumi, Bumthang27th February
4Zhuri DuechoeZhuri Lhakhang, Chumig
Bumthang
9th -10th March
5Gadhen ChoedpaUra Lhakhang, Ura Bumthang12th -13th March
6Kharchu DrubchenKharchu Lhakhang,
Thromdey Bumthang
13th March
7GomphukoraTrashigang21st -23rd March
8Talo TshechuTalo Gonpa, Punakha21st -23rd March
9Gasa TshechuGasa Dzong, Gasa21st -23rd March
10Zhemgang TshechuZhemgang Dzong, Zhemgang21st -23rd March
11Paro TshechuRinpung Dzong, Paro24th -28th March
(ThongdrEl on last day)
12Chhorten KoraChorten Kora,
Trashiyangtshe
27th February & 13th
March
13Rhododendron FestivalLamperi Botanical Garden,
Dochula, Thimphu
16th – 18th April
14Domkhar TshechuDomkhar, Chumig,
Bumthang.
22nd -24th April
15Ura YakchoeUra Lhakhang, Bumthang24th – 28th April
16Pedtsheling KuchoePedtsheling
Lhakhang,Chokhor Bumthang
30th May-1st June
17Nimalung TendraNimalung Dratshang,
Chumig, Bumthang
18th – 20th June
18Kurjey TshechuKurjey Lhakhang,
Choekhor, Bumthang
20th June
19Haa Summer FestivalHaa10th & 11th July
20Mushroom FestivalGenekha, Thimphu.15th & 16th August
21Masutaki Mushroom FestivalUra, Bumthang23rd & 24th August
22Tour of the Dragon (Bicycle
Race)
Bumthang to Thimphu7th September
23Thimphu DrubchenTashi Chhodzong, Thimphu12th September
24
Wangdue Tshechu
Tencholing Army Ground,
Wangduephodrang.

14th – 16th September
25Tamshing Phala ChhoepaTamshing lhakhang, Chokhor,
Bumthang
16th – 18th September
26Thimphu TshechuTashi Chhodzong, Thimphu16th – 18th September
27Gangtey TshechuGangtey Gonpa,
Phobjikha,Wangduephodrang.
18th – 20th September
(Thongdrel on last day)
28Thangbi MewangTangbi Lhakhang, Chokhor,
Bumthang
19th – 21st September
29Jhomolhari Mountain FestivalDangochong, Thimphu14th & 15th October
30Chhukha TshechuChhukha Dzong, Chhukha13th – 15th October
31Jakar TshechuJakar Dzong, Thromdey,
Bumthang.
12th – 16th October
32Ugyencholing KangsoelUgyencholing Lhakhang,
Tang, Bumthang
13th – 15th October
33Dechenphu TshechuDechenphu Lhakhang,
Thimphu
15th October
34Takar DuechoeChumig, Bumthang20th -23rd October
35Jambay Lhakhang DrupJambay Lhakhang,
Chokhor, Bumthang
21st -23th October
36Prakhar DuchhoedPrakar Lhakhang, Chumni,
Bumthang
21st –23rd October
37Royal Highland FestivalLaya, Gasa23th – 24th October
38Sumthrang KangsoelUra, Bumthang2nd – 3rd November
39Black Necked Crane FestivalGangtey Gonpa, Phobjikha,
Wangduephodrang.
11th November
40
Mongar Tshechu
Mongar Dzong, Mongar12th – 14th November
41
Trashigang Tshechu
Trashigang Dzong,
Trashigang.
12th – 14th November
42Pemagatshel TshechuPemagatshel Dzong,
Pemagatshel.
12th – 14th November
(Thongdral on last day)
43Tang Namkhar Rabney
Tang, Bumthang
14th -17th November
44
Chojang Rabney
Tang, Bumthang18th -22nd November

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Vajra / Dorji and its significant


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Vajra is a Sanskrit word meaning both thunderbolt and diamond.Additionally, it is a weapon which is used as a ritual object . In its symbolism we find the Vajra .The vajra is probably the most important symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. The term means “diamond” and refers to the indestructible nature of the mind itself , of awakening. This small scepter seems to be, at the origin, the diamond thunderbolt of Indra, a symbol of royalty and power. When combined with the bell, the vajra symbolizes skillful means and compassion, while the bell represents knowledge and emptiness. Taken separately, it has a complete symbolism which is as follows.

The 5 top branches (1) represent the 5 wisdoms, five facets of the diamond which is the enlightened mind : – Wisdom similar to the mirror, which means that the awakened mind, like a perfectly polished mirror, clearly reflecting all things, has the ability to know everything ;

  • The wisdom of equality, which recognizes that all phenomena of samsara and nirvana are equal in nature , or of a single essence : emptiness ;
  • the wisdom of distinction , which indicates that the awakened mind perceives not only the emptiness of all phenomena but also, in simultaneity without confusion, all phenomena as they occur ;
  • fulfilling wisdom, which allows Buddhas to create pure fields and emanations working for the benefit of beings ;
  • the wisdom of the universal space ( dharmadatou ), indicating that all phenomena, beyond all duality, remain in the pure knowledge of the mind.

At the same time as the five wisdoms , the five upper branches symbolize the 5 Victorious Ones or five principal male Buddhas on a mystical level : Vairocana , Akshobya , Ratnasambhava , Amitabha , Amoghasiddhi .

* 5 The lower branches (2) symbolize the five female Buddhas. Taken as a whole , the 10 branches also symbolize the ten perfections (generosity, ethics, diligence , concentration, knowledge , skillful means , wishes , force, primordial consciousness) or the 10 lands of bodhisattvas.

* The mouths of makara ( sea monster ) (3) , from which emerge branches, denote liberation from the cycle of existences.

* The top 8 petals (4 ) represent the eight male bodhisattvas, residing in the celestial realms.

* The 8 lower petals ( 5) are the 8 female bodhisattvas. Taken together , the 16 petals also symbolize the 16 emptinesses .

* Above the petals, two moon discs (6) ( one on each side ) symbolize the two openings of the heart, relative and absolute . * Between the base of the 8 petals and the center circle are interspersed 3 circles (7) representing the three characteristics of awakened bliss : emptiness, featureless and effortless.

* The round part in the middle ( 8) refers to emptiness

Happiness in the Shangri-La Kingdom


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By Miss  Melissa Chee- Singapore -” 

This is the end of my second visit to Bhutan and I can honestly say I cannot get enough of this beautiful country (Boey will know this so well). Although my mind is addled by fatigue and jet lag right now, I really want to say thank you to everyone who joined Miki, Leng and I on this trip with Yelha Bhutan Tours.

You guys made great company and there was never a dull moment. Many of us came as strangers but left as friends. Thank you for contributing your energy and vibrant personalities to this group. We made so many great memories that I actually have a lot of thoughts to pen down but I’ll write a quick and relatively succinct one so I can let off some of the happiness my heart is bursting with (and finally calm down enough to go sleep).

For the friends that I roped into the tour, I am honestly so thankful that you put your trust in me and decided to join me on this trip. I was worried that you guys might not like the food, or any other parts of the tour, but I was extremely touched when all of you gave positive feedback and mentioned how enjoyable the trip was. Thank you for being my friends, and I look forward to the next time we can meet or travel together again.

For my Bhutanese friends both old and new, thank you for welcoming me to your country once again. Instead of entering a foreign country last Sunday, I felt like I was coming back to my second home. Words cannot describe how thankful I am for your friendship, and for going the extra mile for myself and my family. I can only wish we had more time together..

My Travel Journal– 

I had already dedicated 8 full pages in my bullet journal to my Bhutan travel log, but I’ve had this full page spread in my mind ever since and couldn’t wait to put it on paper. Now my memories of Bhutan have also taken pictorial forms and are immortalized in my bullet journal ? Bullet journaling has been a great catalyst to get my creative juices flowing – I’m not gifted with incredible artistic talent, and I tend to be OCD so I hate seeing uneven lines or smudges but I’ve actually made so many mistakes and imperfections in my bullet journal, which made it even more endearing to me because it’s mine. Hahahaha. Bhutan has been nothing short of magic, her gorgeous landscapes were my muse and source of inspiration to spur me into doodling. Being a straight-laced science student all my life, my parents and I never even knew I was able to draw like that ? so incredibly blessed to have been able to see parts of this beautiful country and be inspired by her!

I have so many more things to be thankful for during my short time in Bhutan – so I’ll try to be succinct and cover them all in this post.

I’m incredibly thankful for all the experiences I’ve had in Bhutan – especially the hikes and food! First time having to hike under high altitude and thin air conditions, and it was an entirely new experience. I couldn’t believe I felt breathless climbing up four flights of stairs, especially since I’d finished my department’s fruit day/vertical challenge a little while back. The hike wasn’t super hard, I’d say Tub Kaek in Krabi is still much more tiring, but it was an amazing experience because I wasn’t keeled over dying of exhaustion hahaha. As for the food, I was really pleasantly surprised. FAQs online had mentioned that Bhutanese food was similar to Indian food, so I actually packed the cup noodles that I’d bought for my Finland/Norway trip (don’t judge pls) just in case. Turns out the food is actually more Chinese-style and it’s super delicious.

Everyone loved ema datshi (chilli and cheese)!! I’m a sucker for cheese so chilli and cheese, mushroom and cheese, or any dish with cheese is a sure winner. I loved the sausages, buckwheat pancakes, momo, soft bread, and chicken curry that we had 

Bhutan Cordyceps Sinensis


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Bhutan Cordyceps Sinensis ‘The Magic Medicine’

The Cordyceps Mushroom supplement comes from an Asian mushroom known as Cordyceps sinesis (C. sinesis) or (Dong Chong Xia Cao, 冬虫夏草) which sprouts from the body of dead caterpillar in the wild. It is also known as the Himalayan Viagra “Yarsa gumba,” which translates as “winter worm, summer grass.

Origin

It can only be found in the mountainous regions above 11,000 feet in Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan. Every year the price of the cordyceps increased due to increase in demand. A high value cordycep cost USD$ 10,000- USD$50,000 per Kilo.

Growth

The fungus is the result of spores from C. sinensis entering the body of a live caterpillar while it is in the larval form of a large moth native to the region. Upon infection from the spores, strands of filaments called “hyphae” begin to sprout from the spores that then lead to the death of the caterpillar.

The hyphae grow longer and more numerous and develop into a relatively large stalk-like fungal fruiting body that emerges from the insect’s carcass after having sapped the caterpillar’s body of all nutrients.

History

Cordyceps sinensis has been described as a medicine in old Chinese medical books and Tibetan medicine. It has been used as food, medicine, poison, and in spiritual mushroom practices in religious rituals across the world since at least 5000 BC.

During the Beijing 2008 Olympics, the price of Cordyceps has skyrocketed. Rumour has it that Chinese government were buying up all the Cordyceps for their athletes.

It was found that there were no special training schemes or methods, but after each training session, every athlete would consume a special drink, which contained Cordyceps.

Some of the Health Benefits of Cordyceps?

Anti-Aging (senescence)

Traditionally, cordyceps has been used in the elderly population to improve weakness, impotence, and fatigue associated with aging. Improvements in self-reported symptoms have been described, as have increases in red blood cell superoxide dismutase activity and decreases in malondialdehyde levels.

Other antioxidant effects, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, and decreases in lipid peroxidation are thought to be responsible for the antiaging effects, as well as effects on the adrenergic and dopamine systems. Increases in learning and memory have been shown in experiments.

Diabetes

Animal studies suggest cordyceps, particularly the polysaccharide extracts, and decreases blood glucose levels by improving glucose metabolism and enhancing insulin sensitivity.

Few clinical trials exist; however, 1 small (N = 20), randomized trial found that taking C. sinensis 3 g daily improved the blood sugar profile over placebo.

Cancer

According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), cordyceps has antitumor, radioprotective, and antidiabetic effects. MSKCC cites a study in which cordyceps made the cancer medication cisplatin more toxic to lung cancer cells, and confirms that cordyceps can also help infection-fighting lymphocytes live longer, increase levels of T helper cells, reduce tumor cell proliferation and boost the activity of natural killer cells.

Finally, the medical center reports that some studies have shown that cordyceps has caused cancer symptoms to improve, in addition to helping patients better tolerate the rigors of chemotherapy.

Sexual dysfunction

Cordyceps has long been prized in the Far East as a powerful stimulant that can help boost circulation, tone the liver and kidneys, increase physical stamina and of course, help men maintain a erection. This ability seems to stem from the fungi’s blood vessel dilating properties which leads to better blood flow, especially to the genital areas.A Japanese clinical study has also found that Cordyceps helped 64% of the men who took it for their erectile dysfunction.

Researchers believe that this is due to the presence of deoxyadenosine and corycepic acid in the fungus. Both of these isolated constituents have been shown to help increase libido and desire in both sexes.

Kidney Disease

Abnormal blood circulation often occurs along with kidney disease. In this condition, cordyceps is a good choice, because it can improve the ability of marrow to produce blood platelets, red blood cells and white cells.

What’s more, the biggest benefit of cordyceps for Chronic Kidney Disease patients is that it can help slow the progress of kidney disease, improve kidney function and reduce kidney damage. Therefore, this herbal medicine is indeed beneficial for most kidney patients.

Protects the Heart

A number of research studies show that Cordyceps has potential for treating heart disease. It is approved in China to treat arrhythmia.

 Better circulation and blood flow

Cordyceps sinensis flaunts a very diverse lin eup of nutrients that have been seen to have a positive effect to the overall function of the circulatory system.

That’s ’cause cordyceps contains a number of nucleosides like deoxyuridine, thymidine, hypoxanthine and adenosine which play a key role in producing energy and enhancing blood flow.

Physical performance

Unpublished data on studies in elderly volunteers revealed increased energy levels and oxygen-carrying capacity following 6 weeks of cordyceps treatment over placebo.

Hepatic function

Hepatoprotective effects of cordyceps extracts have been demonstrated in animal models.  Open-label clinical studies conducted in patients with active hepatitis and posthepatic cirrhosis reported improvements in liver function tests.

Respiratory effects

Sinensis have a stimulatory effect on ion transport in human airway epithelial cells, possibly because of cordycepin and adenosine.  Animal studies suggest the observed effects on respiration are caused by enhanced oxygen utilization capacity, supporting the traditional use of cordyceps in Tibet and Nepal to offset altitude sickness.

Clinical studies conducted in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and bronchitis have suggested efficacy for cordyceps.

Reduces Inflammation

Scientists at the University of Nottingham in Britain have been researching the potential of Cordyceps to reduce inflammation. While their research shows the fungus is effective at reducing inflammation at the cellular level

Ancient Traditional Use of Cordyceps.
  • Cordyceps tonifies Qi.
  • Cordyceps replenishes Yin and Yang Jing.
  • Cordyceps is used to strengthen the body and mind.
  • Cordyceps is believed in the Orient to have rejuvenation functions.
  • Based on the belief that Cordyceps replenishes Yin and Yang Jing, Cordyceps is believed in the Orient to have anti-aging functions.
  • Cordyceps is also a Lung* tonic.
  • Cordyceps is used for the purposes of strengthening the primal Kidney* functions, which include sexual functions, brain power, structural integrity and healing ability, according to traditional Chinese health theory.
  • Cordyceps can have a benefit in the vascular system.
  • Cordyceps improves the function of the micro-circulation and improves efficiency at the capillary level.
Grading of Cordyceps.

Cordyceps is one of the most rare and expensive herbs in Chinese tonic herbalism. It is primarily collected wild in the high mountainous regions of Tibet, and on the high peaks of Yunnan, Sichuan, and Gansu Provinces of China. It can also be grown in a semi-wild manner, but this Cordyceps will be of lower quality (it is still very good).

A rule of thumb—low cost Cordyceps is not wild. The wild Cordyceps will always be the most expensive. High grade Cordyceps is light brown in color and neat. The caterpillar should have eight pairs of legs, the four middle ones being predominant.

The mushroom, or stroma, should be slightly longer than the larva’s body and will be slightly twisted. In good quality Cordyceps, most of this stroma will be intact. Cordyceps possesses a rich and not unpleasant flavour.

Cordyceps grows in Tibet, and in Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces of China. Tibetan and Bhutanese Cordyceps are considered to be the best. It is highly sought after and is more expensive than that from other sources. Wild Cordyceps from Tibetis the best Cordyceps in the world. The very best Cordyceps, the kind the emperor would want, is called “King Cordyceps.” It is graded according to size, the larger the better. Large ones command a hefty price.

However, the difference between Tibetan Cordyceps and wild Yunnan or Sichuan Cordyceps is actually not that significant so you should worry about it. However, there is a big difference between wild and cultivated Cordyceps. They look alike, but studies have shown that wild Cordyceps is richer in certain components and that the proportions of components is different, which probably makes a difference in the activity.

The Cordyceps most commonly found in Chinese herb stores is cultivated. It comes in neat packages but wild Cordyceps from Sichuan and Yunnan are readily available if you ask for it. Tibetan and Bhutanese cordyceps however are rare, precious and more effective. 

Dochula Rhododendron Festival


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The three-day Rhododendron festival is held at the Royal Botanical Park in Lamperi, Dochula about 35 kms from Thimphu.

This festival showcases about 29 types of Rhododendrons of the total of 46 species grown in Bhutan. This year the festival will be held on 19-21st  April. 

The festival will showcase several interesting programs on environment, cultural and food theme. The festival features the rhododendron garden walk and exhibition, local culture and cuisines, arts and crafts, traditional games, cultural program, guided walks and other interesting activities.

The festival will focus around three main themes: ecological, cultural, and food & entertainment. While the first two themes will signify the ecological and cultural richness or the interactions between the two, the third theme will indicate the willingness and capacity of the local communities and school children

Cultural themes

For years, Bhutanese culture has played an integral part of environmental conservation. The festival will highlight some of the cultural richness of the area and interrelate with nature. ecological, cultural, and food & entertainment (Tibetan sound), a famous song/dance originated from Tibet and now popular in Bhutan signifies the preservation of ancient culture with nature. Similarly, Zhungdra which dates back to 17th Century to welcome Zhabdrung reveals Zhabdrung’s historical connection with the Park. Among other dances, attractions include the ‘Tiger & Bear Dance’. Other songs and shows will reveal modern day culture, yet still connecting to nature.

The modern Rhododendron song/dance praising the wild flowers will probably highlight the cultural show. Students will try to educate the gathering through skits and dramas on environment. Come early to enjoy the cultural shows

  1. Exploring the mini-Himalayas through guided walks: FREE with FREE guidebooks & map

Greeting Spring Birds – Birding trails (Serichu Trail & RBP campus) The wild rhododendrons in bloom throughout spring also mean hundreds of birds. Along with the extravagant wild flowers in bloom, enjoy the sight and flight of birds in myriad colours and listen to their melodious songs. While there are more than 220 birds in the Park, you are guaranteed to see at least 30 in a span of less than an hour along the Serichu trail and the Garden campus.

….. And yes, if you are lucky you may spot a red panda as many groups did while bird-watching.

Bhutan boasts of over 46 different species of Rhododendrons, of which you will find 29 in the park. Spread over 124 acres and about 1 km long trail, you can take a short hike of about 30 minutes; the walk will showcase the diversity of rhododendrons. It is an ideal place to learn about them and appreciate their beauty. Few species will be in flowering such as Rhododendron griffithianum,R. arboreum, R. camelliiflorum, R.falconeri.

2.   Reliving the history – Dochula Trail/Lumitsawa Ancient Trail

These two trails combined is a mixture of ecology and history. It is an ancient route that linked Punakha and Wanduephodrang to Thimphu and embellished with many stories associated to Zhabdrung and Lam Drukpa Kinley. You will also walk along different ecological zones and forest types, almost replicating the vegetation of the entire Himalaya. Wildlife sighting is not guaranteed but do watch out for signs.

You may end with Dochula Trail at Lamperi or continue to walk further down to complete along the Lumitsawa Ancient Trail. Or you may wait at Lamperi and start the latter trail. Watch out for Maja Chamsa, Sissa and many more!

   Hiking Trail

  • Dochula Trail                               1.2 kms, 1-2 hours        3100 m – 2700 m          Meeting Point at Dochula pass
  • Lumitsawa Ancient Trail          4.7 kms, 2-3 hours        2700 m – 1800 m          Meeting Point at Lamperi

 3. The Forest Bath – Lungchu Tsey Pilgrimage Trail

The forest bathing along this trail will help you relax through breathing fresh air and antimicrobial volatile substances believed to emit from the trees; while also cleanse your spiritual mind by visiting the Lungchu Tsey Goenpa. The total length of the trail is about 2 hours walk, but an hour walk up to Metopang will see many wild rhododendrons with few in flowering.

Lungchu Tsey Pilgrimage Trail

Duration : 2km, 2 hours walk    Alt: 3100 m – 3400 m    Meeting Point at Dochula pass

III. Entertainment & Information stalls.

The festival will be incomplete without some entertainment. At the same time, eduation and information stalls will keep entertaining the guests throughout. While some of the entertainment will be charged, some will showcase the rich bio-cultural diversities and efforts towards their conservation. Talk shows, documentary and slide show for free will are from 1500 to 1700Hrs daily at the park visitor information center.

Entertainment with charges

Boating – Take a 10 minute boat-ride next to the sacred Baritsho. Towards evening, you will have some company of birds visiting to the lake.

Horse riding – Local communities will take you around the festival ground and short trail on a horse ride. Enjoy the diversity of ecology as well as people!

Yak riding – Perched on a gentle slope at the corner of the festival ground, you will see a nomad’s tent and a family with yaks. You may discover their lifestyle or even sit for a cup of tea with the family for a minimal fee. You can also take a short yak-ride.

Taa-da-Nor traditional game – This game is chess-like in which you save your cows from a hungry tiger. You can learn and enjoy the game, with the locals.

Rhodo-wish-game – An innovative game designed for the festival by the primary students will entertain you with a wish-game on a rhododendron tree. Explore it for yourself.

Instant photo and stamps – You can also take memories of the festival through printed photos or stamps and even post a postcard to your loved ones, from a stall run by students.

ü And many more activities including sale of plants, sale of waste products and others!

Food & beverages.  Worried about food?

You will easily get food and beverages at our stalls run by the local communities. Try out local cuisines and beverages. Local people will sell traditional meals at very reasonable rates. You will also get local beverages and tea with traditional snacks. If you are still not used to traditional food, you will also find a cafeteria that serves your food desires. Don’t forget to taste locally brewed ara, banchang, singchang and changkoe; and butter tea with traditional snacks.

Camping

 If you wish to enjoy the evenings with local entertainment, you may also opt to camp at Lamperi. We have limited tents on first-come-first-serve basis, or limited camping space if you wish to bring your own tents. Please check the availability and rates to book.

 Weather

While spring weather is quite pleasant in Bhutan, the Royal Botanical Park usually receives early rainfall. You are therefore not guaranteed a perfect weather. Mornings might be pleasant but clouds gather rather sooner towards late afternoon. Please bring good walking shoes and umbrellas/rain-gears. For hikers, don’t forget to wear sturdy and comfort shoes.

for Booking, Please mail us direct yelhabhutan@gmail.com

Limited air tickets in April month. 

Paro Tsechu festival 2019


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The Paro Festival is one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan which begins on the 10th day of the 2nd month of the Bhutanese calendar. Paro Valley is a historic town with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area. In 2019 the date of festival is from 17th- 21st March.

It is said that the chipdrel ceremony of escorting the chief abbot of the monk body, Penlop and the mask dances are introduced by Penlop Dawa Penjor. Penlop Tshering Penjor is also said to have introduced many Peling chams such as Ngaging, Driging and Juging etc.  He himself is a descendant of Pema Lingpa’s lineage. The traditions set up by these earlier leaders are still intact and people in the valley still revere the Tshechu.

People come in with their best garment and food both for religious and socialization purposes. Nowadays, the tourists add to both the number and variety of people attending the Tshechu. Thongdrel “deliverance from hell by the sight of it or attainment of nirvana by the sight of it” on the 5th day of the Tshechu, is a masterpiece of silver embroidery of Guru Rinpoche, his eight manifestations and two consorts.It is brought to Dayangkha at 3 am and displayed covering the entire three storied building and taken away by 7 am before the sun breaks, in case the sunlight decolonize the great religious piece. Maximum number of people is seen on this day.

Besides the Paro valley and the festival, this tour will also visit Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and the Punakha, Wangdue, the glacier valley of Phobjikha etc.

Day 01: Arrive Paro

  • Altitude: 2.280 meters

Fly into Paro by Druk Air, Bhutan’s National Airline. The great snow-capped peaks of the inner Himalayas rise up to the heavens can be seen during clear weather. As the plane approaches Bhutan, if you look down farmhouses as dots on the hillsides can be seen.

Check into your hotel in Paro and after refreshments, visit the following:
• Ta Dzong, built in the 17th century as a watchtower for the Paro Dzong. Rinpung Dzong, built in 1645 to defend the valley against Tibetan invaders. The Dzong is now being used as an administration center and school for monks.
• Then walk down to Rimpung Bridge (Traditional Bridge), oldest bridge in Bhutan.
Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 02: Paro Festival – Thimphu

  • Altitude: 2,350m / 7,710ft
  • Distance: 54 km
  • Estimated driving time: 1 hrs

After Breakfast visit the Paro Dzong where the masked dance-dramas, Bhutanese all dressed in their traditional finery witness the age-old, wonderfully colorful and of this typical Buddhist festival are going on. Be amongst throngs of Bhutanese from the Paro valley and from outlying villages of esoteric Religious masked dance-dramas performed by specially trained groups of Buddhist monks.

DAY 03: Thimphu sightseeing.

• Visit the weekly Thimphu market.
• Change money at the Bhutan National Bank
• Visit the Thimphu Post office.
• Visit the Arts and crafts school and the Traditional Medicine Institute.
• Visit Memorial Chorten.
• Observe traditional paper making from Daphnia and Edgeworthia
• Visit the Takin rehabilitation center.
• Drive up to viewpoint and take a hike beyond to see the clear picture of Thimphu Valley.
• Downtown Thimphu on foot visiting Handicrafts Emporium and other Arts & Crafts stores. Buy stunning kiras which can be used and bed covers or wall decoration, jewelry’s and many more.

Overnight in a resort in Thimphu.

Day 04: Thimphu to Punakha

  • Altitude: 1200 meters
  • Distance: 70 km
  • Estimated driving time: 3 hrs

After breakfast we will drive to Punakha Valley.Visit Dochula Druk wangyel temple situated at 3150 meters above sea level.
We will continue drive down into the Punakha valley. Hike to Chhime Lhakhang , an ancient monastery near Punakha, dedicated to fertility and founded by Lam Drukpa Kuenley. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 05: Punakha to Phobjikha

  • Altitude: 2,900m /9840 ft
  • Distance: 78 kms
  • Estimated driving time: 3 hrs

After breakfast we will drive to the beautiful Gangtey and Phobjikha valley. Visit the Gangtey Gompa monastery and hike through the valley after reaching Phobjikha.Overnight Phobjikha at Hotel.

Day 06: Phobjikha- Paro.

  • Altitude: 2,900m /9840 ft
  • Distance: 218 km
  • Estimated driving time: 7 hrs

After breakfast, travel to Gangtey Gompa. Visit Gangtey Gompa, which now houses one of the only Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan. Later drive back to Paro Valley.Lunch at Punakha. Overnight at Paro.

Day 7: Paro Taktsang hike.
After breakfast, drive up to the base camp of Taktsang and then hike up to the most famous Monastery in the entire kingdom of Bhutan perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley.

The hike to the viewpoint will take about an hour and it will take 2 hours to the monastery. Lunch at the viewpoint. Afterwards visit the famous 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang..
Farewell dinner with in the evening. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 8: Fly from Paro.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you to the Paro International airport.

self drive central bhutan adventure


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Bhutan, the secret Shangri la or the Land of the Peaceful Thunder Dragon is the best-kept secret in the travel industry. Due to its relative isolation, the country is not known to the outside world and until 1960, western visitors rarely visited the country. Today still, few people know of the beauty of Bhutan.

The few who do visit this magical place find an ancient Buddhist culture thriving in a landscape of incredible natural beauty.

Bhutan, the secret Shangri la or the Land of the Peaceful Thunder Dragon is the best-kept secret in the travel industry. Due to its relative isolation, the country is not known to the outside world and until 1960, western visitors rarely visited the country. Today still, few people know of the beauty of Bhutan.

The few who do visit this magical place find an ancient Buddhist culture thriving in a landscape of incredible natural beauty.