Distinctive and remote, Darjeeling, Bhutan and Sikkim offer some extraordinary experiences. Make your way from the thriving ghats of Kolkata to marvel at the scenery over the Darjeeling tea plantations. Meet devout Buddhist pilgrims in Sikkim's land of mystic splendour and be intrigued by the vibrant traditional dress, imposing dzongs and Buddhist traditions of the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon'. Darjeeling, Sikkim & Bhutan Classic 2009 GPA 6 15 Max 15, Avg 10 Asia India, Bhutan Kolkata Kolkata India India Culture/History, Wildlife/Nature 14 3 Comfort http://www.gapadventures.com/images/banners/asia/asia_monk.jpg Arrive in Kolkata at any time. Visit the flower markets, wander the riverside ghats and head over to the magnificent Victoria Memorial, a remnant of colonial rule. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over Kangchenjunga from the vantage point of Tiger Hill and a ride on one of India's famous 'toy trains'. You simply can't come to Darjeeling and not sample a cup of its tea! Dominated by mountains and replete with 'gompas', the capital of the ancient Buddhist Kingdom of Sikkim retains evidence of its ancient ties with Tibet. Uncover the secrets of Kalimpong's colourful history and diverse ethnic heritage. Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, Hindu Temples, brilliantly colored orchids and fantastic mountain views. First magical glimpse of the Land of the Thunder Dragon in the border town of Phuentsholing, alongside the Torsa River. Travel the winding route to the tiny and picturesque Bhutanese capital of Thimphu. Both built between two rivers, Punakha is home to one of Bhutan's lovliest dzongs and the winter capital, whilst Wangdue commands strategic and impressive views over all approaches. Dominated by its dramatic Dzong, this town is also our base for visiting the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong and Bhutan's most iconic site - Taktsang, the Tiger's Lair. Arrive in Kolkata at any time. There are no planned activities, so check into to the hotel (check-in time is 12.00 midday) and enjoy the city. At approx 17.00pm we will have a group meeting where you will meet your fellow group members, go over the details of your trip and the leader will collect your local payment. Check the notice board to see where and what time the group meeting will be held.

If you arrive early read our Kolkata welcome note for some suggestions. There are plenty of things to do in this metropolis from walking the narrow streets, wandering along the Hooghly river, shopping for saris and of course indulging in the wonderful Bengali food. Make sure you try to sample Ilish Paturi (fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with spices and mustard paste), Mishti Doi (curd sweetened with jaggery) or the wonderfully sweet Rossogolla (fried balls of flour in sugar syrup).

Bandel cheese is a delicious local cheese sold in a few shops in New Market. It started life in Brandel, in the kitchens of Portuguese, who pitched the tents in the city north of Kolkata in the early 16th century. The salty soft cheese made of cow’s milk, is sold in flattened discs. The creamy white plain variety is yummy but the brown smoked version is to die for with its crumbly texture.

Some Sundays, but especially during Id, Navroz or New Year, the Afghan settlers of Kolkata gather at the Maidan and live out a bit of Kabul, Kandahar or Jalalabad – entertaining themselves with traditional passions – kite flying, anda kushti (hard boiled egg fights) and performing the Attan.
Approx 2000 Afghans settled in Kolkata most of them still continue to be money lenders. Originally they traveled overland from Afghanistan through what is now Pakistan and onto India and reached Kolkata. Here they would go door to door selling bags full of Afghan flavors and aromas – dry fruits, spices and ittar, translating the capital earned into a money lending business. Unlikely to include women in the gathering, but worth heading down to see if they are there. Early this morning we will head out to discover this city as it wakes, beginning with a visit to the flower market, then on to explore some of the city's ghats. Crossing the Howrah Bridge discover the colonial legacy left by the British - visit Dalhousie Square and the magnificent Victoria Memorial.

We also visit Kalighat – the oldest pilgrimage site in the city. The legend tells of Shiva’s grief after the death of his wife Sati, he slung her body on his shoulder and performed the “dance of Death” destroying everything in his path. Vishnu stopped the carnage by use of magic which scattered her body through the land. Her little toe fell at Kalighat. Some believe the name of the city comes from this. The present temple is 19th century the goddess Kali extended tongue is repainted with gold everyday.

Late in the afternoon we will transfer to the train station to board our overnight train. Accommodation is comfortable as we travel in either 2 a/c or 3 a/c tier (4 or 6 berths). Bed rolls are provided and there is usually a pantry car available. Early in the morning we arrive into NJP (New Jalpaiguri) from where we transfer to the magnificent hill station of Darjeeling (approximately 80kms). Originally called Dorje Ling, or "Place of the Thunderbolt", after an ancient Buddhist monastery, this British hill station was also a former army camp and rapidly became the domain of the tea industry. It still produces 25 percent of all India's tea and it is the local tribes of Assam that actually introduced explorers to the idea of drinking fermented tea leaves boiled in hot water. Britain brought tea plants to Darjeeling from Assam in the north to break China's stranglehold on the industry and the rest is history.

This was the original base camp for all treks to, and attempts to climb, Mt Everest. It's also where Tenzing Norgay got his start as a porter and later as an expedition guide. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is located in the zoological park and has 2 museums dedicated to attempts to summit Everest. The area is also known for its Buddhist monasteries in the Tibetan tradition and we may visit one after our trip to Tiger Hill (2555m). You need to wake up very early for our sunrise visit to the highest point in this area, about 14km from Darjeeling and near the Ghoom Monastery. It is famous for its magnificent dawn views over the Khangchendzonga and other eastern Himalayan peaks. On a clear day, if we are lucky, even Mt Everest may be visible.

During our time in Darjeeling we take a ride on the 'Toy Train', still pulled by a steam locomotive as in days of old. This is slow going, but a great experience even for those not into trainspotting. The Mall is a great place to do your shopping - buy Tibetan curios or local crafts or just sit down and have some tea. The Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre was established in 1959 as a center for the refugees who had fled Tibet with the Dalai Lama after the Chinese invasion. It has been developed as a workshop for artisans, producing carpets, woollen items, woodcarvings and leather items. One of the world's 'Shangri-Las', Sikkim has a large number of Nepalis and indigenous Lepchas living here. Stupendous mountain scenery and Buddhist gompas (monasteries) greet us in the capital, Gangtok (meaning 'hilltop'), a town set on a ridge.

A short drive from Gangtok is the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center. Built in 1960 by His Holiness the late 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, it is a replica of the original Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet. It is now the international seat of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje. The Karmapa is the supreme spiritual head of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Only a 15-minute walk away is the old Rumtek Monastery, built to embody the vision and aspiration of the 16th Karmapa to establish his seat-in-exile from Tibet and to help spread the teachings of the Buddha throughout the world.

Definitely worth a visit is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, an internationally acclaimed center of Tibetan studies and research that houses a vast collection of rare Buddhist books, manuscripts and over 200 Buddhist icons. Located on a hilltop above Gangtok is the Enchey Gompa where, every year around January 'chaam' or religious masked dance is performed with great fanfare for 2 days. There are great viewpoints all over the area, and the focus always seems to include Mt Khangchendzonga, which dominates the state. Kalimpong is a bustling and rapidly expanding, though still relatively small, bazaar town set among the rolling foothills and deep valleys of the Himalayas at an altitude of 1250m. Possessing a colourful history and diverse ethnic community, it was once part of the lands belonging to the 'chogyal', or rajas of Sikkim, until the beginning of the 18th Century when it was taken from them by the Bhutanese. In the 19th Century it passed into the hands of the British, thus becoming part of West Bengal and has since been governed by India.

Well known for its handicrafts (especially weaving) and famous for its orchid nurseries and production of 80 per cent of India's gladioli, Kalimpong is warmer than Darjeeling but more commercial. It's home to Dr Graham's famous orphanage and school (started in 1900 by a Scottish missionary, Dr John Anderson Graham), where we pay a visit, and we also see the large temple dedicated to Krishna, Mangal Dham. Sprawling over an area of 2 acres, Mangal Dham is considered to be one of the most splendid temples in India. There are also plenty of shops catering to those in the market for thangkas and other Buddhist artifacts. Indian formalities generally take longer than Bhutanese ones, so we find ourselves spending a night in Pheuntsholing before we head up to Thimpu. A chance to get our picture taken at the Bhutan Gate, buy some stamps, mail those postcards and perhaps see a movie. This is really just a stop on the way, a chance to regroup for the next week. Pheuntsholing is a fascinating mixture of Bhutanese and Indian cultures, a lively place to mingle with locals, hear new languages and see the traditional costumes and goods.

On top of a low hill at nearby Kharbandi, a small gompa is situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers, overlooking the town and surrounding plains. Flowing alongside this town is the Amo Chu, commonly known as the Torsa River, a favourite spot for fisherman and picnickers. Untouched and unspoiled, the 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', Bhutan , was closed to travellers until the 1970s. Visitors are still few and the friendly local people live in small, colorful towns and villages where little has changed over the centuries.

Bhutan and its inhabitants are shaped by their landscape of mountains and green valleys as well as by their religion, with Buddhist monasteries and temples scattered throughout the land. Traditional life is maintained, with the Bhutanese obliged to wear national dress when in public, and festivals are colorful, noisy events, gathering together people from all over the country in a blur of music and dance. Bhutan is an extraordinary place, unlike anywhere else and you will never forget a visit to this stunning country. From Phuentsholing, the road winds north over the southern foothills, through lush forested valleys, past farmhouses and around the rugged north-south ridges of the inner Himalayas to the central valleys of Thimphu and Paro. It is a scenic journey, forests festooned with orchids cover the mountains on either side and exciting hairpin curves greet travellers with colourful sculptures of Tashi Tagye (the 8 auspicious signs of Buddhism).

Thimphu contrasts sharply with most cities you have visited throughout the world. It is a capital city without traffic lights, where no cars existed until 1962 and where all stores are closed on Tuesday on the upper lane and Wednesday on the lower lane. This is to give business people a rest from their capitalist pursuits and time with families. Although people lived and farmed the valley and hills bordering the Thimphu Chhu for many years, the town did not really develop until it became the capital city in 1961. Leaving Thimphu in the mid-afternoon of Day 10, following a busy morning sightseeing, we drive the 3-4 hours to Punakhacrossing the Dochu La Pass (3100m). Here, if the sky is clear, we catch spectacular views of the Bhutan Himalaya. According to Bhutanese myths the area around the pass is holy and inhabited by a variety of spirits.

Descending, note the change in vegetation - Maples and pines have given way to rhododendrons, cypress, hemlock and fir. Also prominent is the daphne, related to the laurel and used for papermaking.
Dropping further in altitude, we begin to see tropical vegetation such as cactus, bamboo and citrus as well as terraced rice paddies that seemingly flow down the hillsides.

We will visit the legendary Chimmi Lhakhang, also known as the 'temple of the divine madman', after the popular figure Lama Drukpa Kunley who introduced a new way of Buddhist practice during his era and is associated very much with the phallic symbols used on Bhutanese houses as talismans. He is credited with subduing the demoness of the Dochu La with his thunderbolt of wisdom and his sexual exploits are legendary - all the flying phalluses you see hanging from rooftops are his. After breakfast on Punakha Dzong was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on a site occupied by a saint, Ngagai Rinchen, and was the second of Bhutan's dzongs, its creation foretold by Guru Rimpoche. The dzong has weathered fires - some accidental and some not - floods, and earthquakes. Until 1953, yearly taxes were collected by regional governors and were deposited in kind at the Punakha Dzong. We drive to Paro (4-5 hours). Paro serves as an ideal spot for rice growing, especially for unusual red rice. The valley is also famous for its fruits - strawberries, apples, pears, plums and peaches. The main street, built in 1985 and therefore quite new, runs parallel to the Paro Chhu river. If time permits, you can poke through the many handicraft shops, visit the archery field or simply roam around to get a sense of the place.

Among the places we visit are Ta Dzong, a circular fortress that once protected the valley from Tibetan invaders. Currently this old watchtower is being used as the National Museum and is filled with a beautiful collection of antiquities.

Paro Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent 17th-Century fortress-monastery which now houses the civil and religious offices in the Paro valley. Towards evening we drive up to the ruins of the Drugyal Dzong. The name commemorates the Bhutanese victory over Tibet in 1644. Situated where the trail from Tibet across the Tremo La enters the Paro valley, the Dzong was at the heart of a major trade route. Although, a butter lamp caught fire and destroyed the temple in 1951, the ruins are interesting.

A hike (approx 2 hours) to the Taktshang Monastery viewpoint is a must. Taktsang is a sacred pilgrimage site where, legend has it, the great Tantric mystic, Padmasambhava, flew on the back of a tigress and brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan. The Monastery clings to a cliff soaring 3000ft above the valley floor at an altitude of 10,000ft Taktsang was destroyed in a fire in 1998 and restoration works are almost complete. On the way back stop at one of the oldest and most important of Bhutan's temples - the wonderful old Kyichu Lhakhang, with its magnificent statues and carvings. Kyichu is one of the few remaining temples built in the 8th Century by the great King Songtsen Gampo. We catch the early morning flight from Paro to Kolkata. The trip ends on arrival at Kolkata airport. If you are travelling onward we recommend leaving plenty of time for onward connections (flight departures in the late afternoon or evening are the best option). 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD 3519 3399 2119 1729 4549 3199 2289 3449 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Local Payment 250 USD Accommodation Comfort Hotel/guesthouses (12 nights), overnight train (1 night) Brief Highlights Kolkata, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, Paro, Punakha, Thimphu Brochure Notes Combination Departure Departs on selected Sundays DepEnd Sun-Sat Group Leader Tour Leader throughout, local guides Group Size Max 15, Avg 10 Included Highlights -Kolkata's flower market, Victoria Memorial, KaliGhat Temple
-Darjeeling Toy train
-Sunrise at Tiger Hill
-Dr Graham School
-Visit to a tea estate
-Rumtek Monastery
-Paro Museum
-Rinpung Dzong
-Thimpu Folk and Heritage Museum
-Gangtey Monastery
- Chinni Lhakhang
-Punakha Dzong
-Zulekha Nunnery
-Kyichu Lhakhan
-Namgyal Institute of Tibetology Max Pax 15 Meal Budget Allow USD200 for meals not included. See Trip Notes for spending money. Meals Included 13 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
Min Pax 6 StartFinish ex Kolkata Testimonial Transport Train, mini van, plane, auto-rickshaws A Word of Warning About Accommodation A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used in India. These can vary in terms of service, efficiency and cleanliness. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Power cuts can and are a regular occurrence in many places, especially throughout North and Central India. Although a number of hotels have generators there may be times when these won’t work. It is also recommended when you are in your room to lock the door, as staff will sometime enter without reason. About our Transportation TRAIN
The best way to see India is at ground level on the Indian Railway System. In fact no visit to India would be complete without the experience of travelling on a train and negotiating the busy railway station. Indian trains are not merely a conveyance they are an odyssey so sit back relax and enjoy the show.
G.A.P Adventures uses a combination of AC 2 tier, AC 3 tier and sleeper class (for overnight journeys) and AC Chair car or second class seats for day journeys.
There are no restaurant or buffet cars on Indian Railways, but on long distance trains an attendant will appear in your coach and ask you if you would like to order food. Regular stops are made at stations where food is also available and on some trains many vendors board the train selling chai, cold drinks and crisps and biscuits.
Whilst not at western standards, but you will find AC2, AC3 and AC Chair class pretty comfortable by Indian standards, with both western-style and squat toilets. Sleeper Class and 2nd class toilets may be a different matter! Bring your own toilet paper and hand wash soap or liquid.

ROAD
Traveling by road in India or Nepal is exciting and not quite what many of us are used to. Rules are it would appear arbitrary, speeding, do not stay in their lanes, overtake in seemingly dangerous situations, spare use of lights. Travel time can be long in comparison to Western countries, short distances taking a lot longer than at home. Arrival Complications We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader. If this is unsuccessful, please refer to our Emergency Contact. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please contact your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Brochure Intro Distinctive and remote, Darjeeling, Bhutan and Sikkim offer some extraordinary experiences. Make your way from the thriving ghats of Kolkata to marvel at the scenery over the Darjeeling tea plantations. Meet devout Buddhist pilgrims in Sikkim's land of mystic splendour and be intrigued by the vibrant traditional dress, imposing dzongs and Buddhist traditions of the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon'. Checklist Passport (with photocopies)
Travel insurance (with photocopies)
Airline tickets (with photocopies)
USD cash and travellers cheques
Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
G.A.P Adventures vouchers, pre-departure information and dossier
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Day pack for daily personal items
Lock for all bags
Wet wipes / Moist towelettes
Alarm clock
Flashlight
Sun hat, Sun block, Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Water bottle and Plastic mug for train journeys
Ear plugs for train journeys or light sleepers
Small towel and swim wear
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Sturdy walking shoes/Sport sandals
Money belt
Shorts
Long trousers
Hiking pants/track pants
Shirts/T-shirts
Warm clothes for November-February. Fleece, Jacket, hat and gloves
Umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Cover for backpack or plastic bags to keep clothes dry.
Camera and film
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Pocketknife
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking).
Tampons can be difficult to buy in Bhutan
Continuing Point Graphic Continuing Point Instructions Departure Tax All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket. Dossier Intro Distinctive and remote, Darjeeling, Bhutan and Sikkim offer some extraordinary experiences. Make your way from the thriving ghats of Kolkata to marvel at the scenery over the Darjeeling tea plantations. Meet devout Buddhist pilgrims in Sikkim's land of mystic splendour and be intrigued by the vibrant traditional dress, imposing dzongs and Buddhist traditions of the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon'. Emergency Contact Should you need to contact G.A.P Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

South Asia Manager Mobile: +91 99 1087 5574 - Julie (India)
Asia Operations Manager Mobile: +66-879 118 802 - Gabe (Thailand)

G.A.P Adventures Local Office – Bangkok, Thailand
Office Tel: +66-2-860-3773 or +66-2-661-4845

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, we have a toll-free line for North America, which will connect you directly with our Toronto office. In the event that you cannot get through, you can reach a member of our Operations department at the mobile number below.

Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 465 5600.
Calls from the UK: 0870 999 0144.
Outside North America and the UK: +1 416 260 0999. Mobile: + 1 647 504 6467 Feedback After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that you'll receive a special discount code for free online prints and we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G.A.P Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Please visit http://www.gapadventures.com/evaluations
Finishing Point Hotel Please note this trip finishes at Kolkata Airport on arrival from your flight from Paro (Bhutan)
Check the Druk Air website for current flight schedules Paro to Kolkata:
http://www.drukair.com.bt/fl_schdl.htm Finishing Point Instructions After arrival into Kolkata we transfer to our starting-point hotel where the trip finishes. We have a couple of rooms for you to use until midday. If you are departing India today its best to book your flight for later in the afternoon as delays do occur. Please note that additional accommodation is also available at this hotel in Kolkata.

G.A.P Adventures offers a Kolkata City Extensions (3 days/2 nights) which gives you a option of a higher standard of accommodation. Please check with your agent at the time of booking. Free Online Trip Journals An online Trip Journal is a great way to record stories and photos as you travel, not to mention sharing your experiences with friends. Encourage your family and friends to follow in your footsteps as you explore the world! With templates for over 300 G.A.P Adventures trips already online all you have to do to get started is log in, choose your trip and your departure date, it's quick and easy! Head to http://www.gapadventures.com/trip_journal. Group Leader Description All G.A.P Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. Health You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. G.A.P Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our group leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Important Notes 1. India is a country which is very different to anything you will have experienced before. Although this means it is not the easiest place to travel, this is also what makes it so special. Pollution, poverty and the crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this large and wonderfully different country but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way.
2. In India there are very different attitudes to time keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. Trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and power will often just vanish. Optimistic menus turn out to have only one dish available and everyone, just everyone, will want to know your name. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a healthy sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what India has to offer.
3. This trip finishes at Kolkata Airport. If you are booking a connecting international flight from Kolkata please check the Druk Air website for current schedules of arrival times. Please note however that schedules and flights can change at the last minute and it is recommended that you make any connection for late afternoon of day 14.
http://www.drukair.com.bt/fl_schdl.htm
4. Should you require accommodation in Kolkata at the end of the trip, please ensure you book additional accommodation and transfer at the time of making your initial booking.
5. There is a US $10 departure tax when leaving Bhutan.
4. Please note there may be times during your visit to Bhutan when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate. Local people may consider that filming is too intrusive and in these circumstances we will request that you do not film. At all times be aware and sensitive to the impact of photography and seek permission before taking photographs of people and respect their wishes if they refuse.
6. Accommodation in Bhutan can be very simple. Electricity and water can often be sporadic. Traditional Bhutanese food is very much chili based but in the larger towns western food is available in the hotel restaurants.
7. We request that you please pay your local payment in higher denomination bills of either $100 or $50 USD notes. Please also ensure that the notes are new and clean, as old or ripped notes may not be accepted by Indian banks.
8. Bhutan, being a Buddhist country believes in ahimsa so the barking of dogs (and there are a lot of them) at night can be annoying. It's advisable to bring earplugs. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a good sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by what Bhutan has to offer.
9. Bring your own film (if you are still using it) and plenty of it - film is often hard to find in Bhutan and can be of inferior quality.
10. The prime requirement for clothes you bring on Bhutan trip is that they are comfortable and appropriate to the weather conditions that you are likely to meet. For protection against cold, particularly at night, a number of relatively thin layers is better than a few thick ones. Thermal underclothes, being small and light, can be very useful. Bhutan is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. The wearing of shorts is not allowed as it will restrict your entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat and sunscreen essential. Itinerary Disclaimer While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit travel with G.A.P Adventures can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Joining Hotel Kolkata – Housez 43
43 Mirza Galib Street,
Opposite Armenian College
Kolkata
Phone: +(91) - (33) - 2227 6020-21

Our hotel Housez 43 is a 125 year old building located close to both Park Street (5 mins walk) and Camac Street (10 mins walk). The hotel and street have witnessed the changing face of Kolkata from the British Raj to the Zamindars of Bengal and now to the commercial development of the area. Mirza Galib street is more commonly known as Free School Street, the name given by the British Raj.

Housez 43 has a small coffee shop inside the hotel. The hotel has 24 hour room service and is also wifi enabled and there are luggage storage facilities available. All rooms are air conditioned and have cable TV.

Note - some streets in Kolkata change direction during the day. So if you are coming to the hotel before 2.00pm your best access is from Camac Street, into Park Street and then into Mirza Galib Street. If you are arriving after 2.00pm then access will be down JL Nehru Road (Chowringhee Road) into Kyd Street then onto Mirza Galib Street. Joining Hotel Image Joining Instructions An arrival transfer is included with all Comfort-Class tours when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior to the tour, and provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through G.A.P Adventures in our joining hotel. Our driver/local operator will be waiting for you with a G.A.P Adventures sign with your name on it. Please check carefully once you exit the baggage hall as there seem to be hundreds of people waiting outside in the arrival area. Our operator for Aiport transfers is Clubside Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd. Their contact is Mr Hari Mehta and his mobile number is (+91) 94743 64466. The office number is (+91-33) 6453 9646.

Be aware too, that touts at the airports, even at hotel-reservation counters, may try to trick you into booking a hotel room by claiming that your prior reservation is invalid. Ignore them.

Your Tour Leader will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, they will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your Tour Leader will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive some general and specific information about aspects of the trip. Laundry Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Local Dress In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting small rural communities or visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites as this may restrict your entry.

India is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. The wearing of shorts is not allowed as it will restrict your entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat essential.
NB: WE STRESS THAT IT CAN BE VERY COLD IN THE HILLS DURING THE MONTHS FROM DECEMBER TO FEBRUARY.

NB: During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet and "talk" with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc. Local Flights All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure. Meals Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G.A.P Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your group leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. Vegetarians will be able to find a huge range of different foods - India is vegetarian heaven. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. Medical Form Our small group adventures bring together people of all ages. It is very important you are aware that, as a minimum, an average level of fitness and mobility' is required to undertake our easiest programs. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Travellers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, which must be signed by their physician. This is to ensure that travellers have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete their chosen trip. While our leaders work hard to ensure that all our travellers are catered for equally, it is not their responsibility to help individuals who cannot complete the day's activities unaided. Please refer to the physical ratings in this Trip Details document for more information.
Please note that all passengers traveling to Antarctica are required to fill out this questionnaire.

The medical questionnaire can be found online at:

www.gapadventures.com/online_medical_form.
Money Exchange As currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com
As of Sept 2008 the exchange rate for INDIA was 1 USD = 46.36 INR (Indian Rupees) and for BHUTAN 1 USD = 46.33 BTN (Ngultrum). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and Mastercard but these are limited to major cities. We also recommend the use of cash and travellers cheques in USD currency. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 2-4% transaction fee.
There are no ATMs in Bhutan. The Ngultrum is valueless outside of Bhutan so make sure that you change back all excess Bhutanese currency before you leave. It is possible to use Indian Rupees in Bhutan.
Newsletter Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G.A.P Adventures, subscribe at http://www.gapadventures.com/newsletter_signup
Optional Activities We suggest you bring along USD50 for additional sightseeing. Our Commitment to Responsible Travel in Antarctica In April of 2006 G.A.P Adventures became one of four new full members in IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). IAATO was founded in 1991 to advocate, promote and practice safe and environmentally responsible private-sector travel to the Antarctic and now includes 80 members that carry about 95% of all annual tourists to Antarctica. In 1996 IAATO developed an independent Onboard Observer program to ensure that companies applying to become members meet their detailed and extensive regulations for visiting Anatarctica. This past Antarctic season Gap carried one such observer onboard the Explorer and we met IAATO standards. Subsequent to this, G.A.P Adventures was voted in as full member to IAATO at their 17th annual meeting.

IAATO developed a set of Guidelines for tourists to Antarctica, which were subsequently adopted by the Antarctic Treaty parties as part of their Environmental Protocol. It educates the passengers on how to approach, observe and relate to the Antarctic animals and their environment.

It is both G.A.P Adventures's and IAATO's hope that our passengers will return home with a basic understanding of the continent and will be ambassadors for the Great White Continent.

Due to its remote and isolated environment, Antarctica remains a pristine wilderness home to rare flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. As a responsible tour operator, G.A.P Adventures is committed to the conservation of Antarctica by minimizing the impact on the region’s wildlife and fragile environment. We follow all internationally agreed regulations of conduct onshore, and ensure that the ship and Zodiacs are operated in an environmentally responsible manner. Planeterra-The G.A.P Adventures Foundation Through G.A.P Adventures’ commitment to responsible tourism we have developed Planeterra – the G.A.P Adventures Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of people and communities around the world through support of international charities, local organizations and community projects in the places that we visit on our tours. G.A.P Adventures matches all individual donations and pays all administration fees, which means that 100% of each donation is doubled and goes directly to support our projects. For more information about Planeterra and the projects we support, or to make a donation, please visit www.planeterra.org

Planeterra Dollar-A-Day Program
Our Dollar-A-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to help us give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar per day for the duration of their tour. 100% of these proceeds will go directly to support our Planeterra projects.

To participate in this program please indicate at the time of booking that you would like to participate in G.A.P Adventures’ Dollar-A-Day program, either by clicking the check box online, or by advising your GA.P Adventures specialist or travel agent. (Note: Donation will be charged in the currency of your booking) Safety and Security Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your group leader will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Tipping It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your Tour Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from USD1-2 per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G.A.P Adventures Tour Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline USD10-15 per person, per week can be used. Travel Forum - The Watering Hole Be sure to stop by The Watering Hole, our adventure travel forum. If you're interested in meeting others booked on your upcoming trip, check out the Departure Lounge section of our forum and introduce yourself. Otherwise, just drop in at anytime to share some travel tips, ask questions, meet other travellers and quench your thirst for travel. Our forum is located at wateringhole.gapadventures.com. Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Trip Specific Safety We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Validity Valid for all trips departing January 1, 2009 - December 31st 2009. Visas Please note that visas for India and are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. For the most up to date information please check your governments foreign ministry website or with you travel agent as rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself. For most travellers there will probably have an embassy and consulate in the country that you live in.

Standard Indian tourist visas are good for 6 months with multiple entry and exits. They are not available at port of entry AND must be obtained in advance.

For Bhutan G.A.P Adventures will arrange the visa for you. You must provide G.A.P Adventures at the time of booking with a scanned copy of the details (photo) page of your passport. The cost of the visa is included in the tour price. The Bhutanese visa is then issued on arrival at the land border on submission of 2 passport sized photographs.

We Want Your Photos If you've got some great photos form your G.A.P Adventures travels, then post them online in our community! You can share photos - and videos - with our travellers from around the world. Simply go online to www.gapadventures.com/community to check out what other people have shared! We often have photo and video contests running too, so be sure to check our website often!
What to Take What you need to bring depends on the trip you have chosen and the countries or regions you are planning to visit. We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G.A.P Adventures trips! Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!) as they need to fit under the beds when travelling on sleeper trains. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones. If your trip involves overnights in homestays, villages or camping then you usually have the opportunity to rent sleeping bags if need be instead of bringing them with you.