accf & the thunder dragon

Transcription

1 Himalaya accf & the thunder dragon trip highligh ts Learn about the remarkable work the ACCF is undertaking Visit the famous Tiger s Nest (Taktshang) monastery, near Paro. Immersion in Bhutanese culture at Paro s National Museum Visit the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. Ancient dzongs (fort-monasteries) and monasteries in Thimphu Views of Chomolhari (7314m), Bhutan s most sacred mountain, and the Bhutanese Himalayas A day in Bumthang in Central Bhutan the cultural heart of Bhutan and home to some of the country s most significant Buddhist sites A chance to experience the colourful Paro Tsechu Trip Duration 13 days Trip Code: SOG0903 Grade Adventure touring level Activities Adventure Touring Accommodation 13 day trip, 12 nights hotel welcome to World Expeditions Thank you for your interest in our ACCF & the Thunder Dragon trip. At World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the enjoyment of small groups or individuals - philosophies that have been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience, designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for a life changing experience!! why travel with World Expeditions? When planning travel to a remote and challenging destination, many factors need to be considered. World Expeditions has been pioneering trips to the Himalaya since Our extra attention to detail and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will have a memorable experience in the Indian Sub-continent. Every trip is accompanied by an experienced local leader, as well as support staff that share a passion for the region, and a desire to share it with you. We take every precaution to ensure smooth logistics, with private vehicles throughout your trip. We use comfortable 3 to 4 star accommodation in hotels hand-picked for their local character and charm. In most cases, all internal transport, entrance fees, national park fees and transfers are included in the cost of your trip Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

2 C H I N A Kangchenjunga S I K K I M Gangtok Yuksam Kalimpong Darjeeling From Kathmandu Thimphu Paro B H U T A N Phuentsholing I N D I A Oct - 24 Oct trip dates trip cost Joining Brisbane (departures from other capital cities available) Plus $1000 payable directly to ACCF by either tax deductable donation or fundraising. ACCF can assist with fundraising ideas to get you going (and don t think you have to stop at $1000). From 7-16 travellers: $5990 options & supplements Single Supplement: $399 World Expeditions does not require single travellers pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveller of the same gender and if we can not match you up we will provide a single room at no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room. The cost of the single supplement is listed above. Occasionally Drukair is forced to totally cancel a service for operational reasons, in such an instance any additional costs must be borne by the traveller and claimed via their travel insurance. The Drukair air flight component of your tour package will be totally non-refundable once tickets are issued. Land arrangements are subject to the cancellation fees as set out on our terms and conditions. the trip The remote Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is well known for it s untouched wilderness, rich Buddhist culture and a history steeped in mystique and legend. Our cultural journey encompasses all that Bhutan has to offer taking in the must see highlights of both western and central Bhutan. Our tour begins in the picturesque Paro Valley, home to the Tiger s Nest (Takstang) monastery. After exploring the many interesting sites of the Paro Valley we drive across the dramatic Dochu La into central Bhutan, to Bumthang. It is widely regarded that Bhutanese Buddhism first took hold here and the legacies are the many ancient and magnificent monasteries in and around the area. our partners The Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF) is dedicated to eliminating cervical cancer in Australia and in developing countries. We aim to do this by enabling public awareness programs, screening and related women s health clinics and by providing cervical cancer vaccine to women who do not have access to it. Simple and inexpensive, but otherwise unavailable treatments can often prevent great suffering. ACCF s exciting projects in Bhutan:- In 2010 the National Vaccination Program was launched in Bhutan in the presence of Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother. Over 44,000 girls (entire national population of 12 to 18 year old girls) successfully received the HPV vaccinations. From 2011 onwards, all girls who turn 12 years old are eligible for the Gardasil vaccine, just like Australian 12 year olds. This equates to approximately 20,000 vaccines each year. During our visit, ACCF will introduce you to our programs and partners in Bhutan with visits to schools, clinics and local communities throughout our VolunTOURing adventure. The ACCF would like to acknowledge the fine images in these trip notes taken by a previous ACCF VolunTOURer, Marilla O Dwyer. at a glance Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day Oct 2012 Depart Brisbane Arrive Bangkok, Thailand 13 Oct 2012 Depart Bangkok for Paro, Bhutan 14 Oct 2012 Paro Valley sightseeing then drive to Thimphu 15 Oct 2012 Sightseeing Thimphu 16 Oct 2012 Cross Dochu La, Punakha Dzong (drive approx. 3 to 4hrs) 17 Oct 2012 Wangduephodrang to Bumthang (drive approx. 6 to 7hrs) 18 Oct 2012 In Bumthang 19 Oct 2012 Ura Village and Mebartso 20 Oct 2012 Bumthang to Wangduephodrang (drive approx. 6 to 7hrs) 21 Oct 2012 Drive to Paro via Lobesa (drive approx. 3 to 4hrs) 22 Oct 2012 Trek to Takstang Monastery 23 Oct 2012 Depart Bhutan for Brisbane via Bangkok 24 Oct 2012 Arrive Brisbane additional deposits required Due to the Druk Airlines flights we require an increased deposit of $1, per person. Once we receive this we will arrange your Druk flights and arrange to have your pre departure information posted Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

3 what s included Return economy Thai International Airfares from Brisbane to Bangkok including taxes and surcharges (please contact WE for flights from other capital cities) Return economy Druk Airlines Airfares from Bangkok to Paro including all taxes and surcharges Stopover accommodation in Bangkok including return airport transfers and breakfast 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners English-speaking local guide Quality accommodation on a twin share basis Sightseeing and entry fees as listed Private internal transport All airport transfers Pre-departure Information Guide Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have chosen a policy not to ask for such payments. detailed itinerary Day 1 12 Oct 2012 Depart Brisbane Arrive Bangkok, Thailand After what feels like a lifetime the day has finally arrived for you to depart from Brisbane to be immersed in a culture and tradition so different to ours. Your travel to Bhutan takes you via Bangkok, Thailand where there is an overnight stay due to the flights not connecting. Accommodation will be provided at an airport hotel. TG OCT BNE BKK meals: nil Day 2 13 Oct 2012 Depart Bangkok for Paro, Bhutan This morning we have an early flight departing Bangkok for the Kingdom of Bhutan. On arrival in Paro we clear Bhutan customs and immigration before being met by our Bhutan group leader. At our hotel our Bhutan guide will brief you on your stay in Bhutan before we take our first opportunity to explore the Paro bazaar. After visiting the Bazaar we hope to meet ACCF s Project Leaders and hear first-hand about ACCF s current programs in this area. Accommodation: Kichu Resort KB OCT BKK PBH meals: nil Day 3 14 Oct 2012 Paro Valley sightseeing then drive to Thimphu Our sightseeing program in Paro includes a visit to the Paro Dzong which is the monastic and administrative centre for South-West Bhutan. We also visit the original fort - the Ta Dzong that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan with excellent displays of all facets of the countries rich cultural history. Old costumes and battle dress, together with priceless jewellery and specimens of the kingdom s unique flora and fauna are included within the museum. Evening drive to Thimphu. Accommodation: Hotel River View Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

4 fast facts Countries Visited: Bhutan and overnight transit via Bangkok, Thailand Visas: Yes* Vaccinations: Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information Singles: A single supplement is available for this trip* Leader: Expert local leader Brochure Reference: Journeys of Discovery responsible travel The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimise the impact of our presence. World Expeditions were the proud recipients of the inaugural Australian National Travel Industry s Environmental Achievement award for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This detailed guide to responsible and sustainable travel is provided to all World Expeditions clients before they travel. Please ask your consultant if you have not received your copy of our award winning book. Alternatively, you may like to download a copy from our website trip grading Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to keep the accent on the active. We therefore advise some physical training before undertaking the trip to enable you to participate in optional activities. As for any trip, the fitter you are the more you will enjoy your experience. Day 4 15 Oct 2012 Sightseeing Thimphu Bhutan s compact capital (population about 50,000 Bhutan had its very first census in May 2005) is easily explored on foot. We visit the Indigenous hospital, where traditional healing arts are still practiced, the Art & Craft school, the National Library, the Royal goldsmith workshop and the Handicraft Emporium with its famous weaving, woodcarvings and paintings. In the afternoon we visit the memorial chorten (a chorten is a stone Buddhist monument, often containing relics) dedicated to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the founder of modern-day Bhutan. We ll also visit the 15th century Changangkha monastery and Motithang mini zoo, where we ll see the rare takin (the national animal of Bhutan), before driving out of town for a view of the Thimphu Valley. We also visit the new Drupthob nunnery temple and browse the local market. Visit an ACCF project in the Thimpu area. Be prepared because there may be an opportunity to assist with a community project with the local village people. Overnight Thimphu. Day 5 16 Oct 2012 Cross Dochu La, Punakha Dzong (drive approx. 3 to 4hrs) From Thimphu, we drive for about three hours to Wangduephodrang (locally known as Wangdi ) via Punakha, changing climatic zones from mountainous to tropical. On the way, we cross over Dochu La, a 3150-metre-high pass marked by prayer flags and a chorten and, if the weather is fine, a view of the eastern Himalaya including the highest mountain in Bhutan, Mt Gangar Punsum (7520m). We drive through forests of rhododrendron and magnolia, before the road descends into the warmer lowlands around Punakha. We visit the Punakha Dzong, which once served as the old capital of Bhutan. This remarkable fortress is built in 1637 between two rivers and has survived many glacial floods and fire. Every February there is a procession known as the Punakha Serda to commemorate the victory over the Tibetans. From there it s just 45 minutes drive to Wangduephodrang where you can view the Dzong and stroll around the market area. Overnight Wangdi Kyichu Resort. Day 6 17 Oct 2012 Wangduephodrang to Bumthang (drive approx. 6 to 7hrs) Today will be a long drive, crossing three passes over 3000 metres high along the way. The route offers magnificent views of the Himalayas and a beautiful landscape of scattered hamlets, and rhododendron and pine forests. A picnic lunch will be served at the 18th century Chendebji chorten. After an hour and a half we ll arrive at a small town known as Trongsa, meaning new village. The town mainly consists of newly arrived Tibetan refugees but the most impressive building here is the Trongsa Dzong. The whole of Eastern Bhutan was controlled from this fortress during the mid 17th century. Visitors are not allowed inside the building but it is spectacular from the outside. After another two hours we reach Bumthang and visit the Chume weaving centre. Day 7 18 Oct 2012 In Bumthang Comprised of four smaller valleys, the deeply spiritual region of Bumthang in Central Bhutan is shrouded in religious legend. It is believed to be the first part of Bhutan to be inhabited and tales of Guru Padmasambhava (aka Guru Rinpoche), who lived here in the 8th century, and his reincarnation Tertons, still linger. Bumthang is also known for its hand-spun, hand-woven woollen cloth called yathra, which can be seen hanging for sale outside houses. We visit the Jakar Dzong, the 7th century Jambay Lhakhang, and the Kurjey, Tamshing and Kunchosum monasteries. This sightseeing day is a round trip so it is more interesting done on foot. Overnight Bumthang. Day 8 19 Oct 2012 Ura Village and Mebartso Today we take a two-hour excursion to Ura Village (3100m), a small village with cobblestone streets where the local women wear traditional sheepskin shawls. We ll visit the new Ura monastery and, Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

5 adventure travel By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent. important note These trip notes represent the most current information for this itinerary, and may supersede any information in the current brochure, including but not limited to the itinerary and price. The itinerary should be seen as a guide only. This itinerary may change at any time due to inclement weather, forces of nature and other circumstances beyond our control. on the way, stop at the Mebartso, meaning burning lake, where prayer flags and clay offerings indicate its spiritual significance. Legend has it that there is a temple at the bottom of the lake. We ll take a stroll around the village and return to the guest house. In the evening we may take a pleasant evening walk to the nearby Swiss farm where apple juice, cider, cheese and other dairy products are made. Day 9 20 Oct 2012 Bumthang to Wangduephodrang (drive approx. 6 to 7hrs) Today we drive back to Wangdi. This is a windy place, thanks to its location on an exposed headland overlooking the Punak river, but it affords great views. It is also home to Wangdi dzong, which sits atop a ridge high above the river. The hillside below the dzong is covered in cacti, which were planted centuries ago to deter invaders. Wangdi was once the capital of Bhutan. Overnight at Wangdi Kyichu Resort. Day Oct 2012 Drive to Paro via Lobesa (drive approx. 3 to 4hrs) We drive to Paro today, via Lobesa, with a short walk past farm houses and through fields to Chimme Lhakhang. This monastery was built in the 15th century and is dedicated to the famous Lama Drukpa Kunley, the divine mad man. He is one of the most famous saints in Bhutan and his temple is visited mostly by childless couples, for good luck. We have lunch at Thimphu and drive back to Paro, stopping off to visit the oldest building in Bhutan, the Simtokha Dzong, which now serves as a Buddhist university. Overnight Kyichu Resort. Day Oct 2012 Trek to Takstang Monastery Day hike to Taktsang (Tiger s Nest) monastery, through villages and pine forests; it takes about 2-3 hours. It is all uphill so for those less energetic, horses can be arranged, for an extra cost. The monastery, which clings to a huge granite cliff 800 metres above the Paro valley, was devastated by fire in 1998 but the Royal Government has taken steps to restore it to its original condition. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche came here in the 7th century on a flying tigress and meditated in a nearby cave for three months where demons trying to stop the spread of Buddhism were subdued and converted. During the end of the 17th century a monastery was built on the spot where Guru Rinpoche meditated and it is now a pilgrimage site; every Bhutanese hopes to visit the monastery once in their lifetime. Stroll back to Paro. Evening at leisure. Overnight Kyichu Resort. Day Oct 2012 Depart Bhutan for Brisbane via Bangkok After farewelling our guides we transfer to Paro Airport for the return flight back across the Himalayas to Bangkok. You will have a number of hours to explore the huge modern facilities of Bangkok airport before the final flight home departs. At the airport you may decide do some shopping, enjoy a meal, have a shower or even take a massage! KB126 23OCT PBH BKK TG473 23OCT BKK BNE meals: b Day Oct 2012 Arrive Brisbane Upon arrival in Brisbane all services finish, although the memories of your adventure will last a lifetime! meals: nil This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

6 country information Bhutan is a small, independent Buddhist kingdom about 300km long by 150kms wide, situated on the eastern end of the Himalaya. It is bordered by India, (Sikkim, Assam, West Bengal and Arunachal Pradesh), China (Tibet) and Bangladesh. Virtually the entire country is mountainous, ranging in elevation from 100m in the south to the 7544m Kulha Gangri peak on the northern border. It receives more rainfall than any other Himalayan region up to five metres annually which ensures a lush and diverse flora, from small orchids to enormous conifers and rhododendrons. The country s natural environment has also been preserved by Bhutan s long history of isolation, small population (around 670,000), Buddhist beliefs and mountainous terrain. There are more than 5000 species of plants, including over 50 species of rhododendron and 600 species of orchid! There s also plenty of wildlife, including elephants, rhino, tigers and snow leopards. Most of Bhutan s population came from the north (Tibet) and practise a Buddhism similar to that region, yet Bhutan has its own unique beliefs and practices too. Bhutanese Buddhism is officially called Drukpa Kagyu and includes practising their faith through traditions of art, dance, drama and various crafts such as weaving, carpentry and metalwork. Bhutan is also unique in its leadership. The late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is succeeded by his son, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, demonstrated much character and foresight by developing and maintaining a program that is for the betterment of the people and the land rather than short term financial gains an encouraging sign to a sound future. Part of Bhutan s charm lies in the fact that it was virtually cut off from the rest of the world, particularly the West, until the early 1960s. Until 1961, the country had no national currency, telephones, schools, hospitals or postal service and no tourists. Tourism to Bhutan began when the first groups of trekkers arrived in the 1960s but larger numbers of foreign tourists started arriving only around 1974; Paro airport opened in At the time of writing, only 8000 tourists per year are allowed into Bhutan, which adds to the sense of privilege when you visit. climate Bhutan, like Eastern Nepal, comes under the influence of the Indian monsoon from late May to mid-september and receives more rain during the monsoon than other Himalayan regions (up to 5.5 metres a year). So the ideal time to visit Bhutan is either pre-monsoon from mid-march when the winter snow has begun to melt off the high passes, until the end of May; or post-monsoon, from October to mid-november. Temperatures can vary considerably depending on your elevation but as a guideline, temperatures in the capital, Thimphu, in April/May and October range from around 5C to around 25C. a typical day Each morning, you will meet for breakfast and a briefing on the day s events. After a wholesome breakfast, we are usually on the road by around am. Because this is a touring trip, distances covered are less important than what is seen along the way. When there is free time, you can wander at leisure before meeting the group (or not) for dinner. Much of the enjoyment of an expedition is in the journey itself. equipment required There is no specialist equipment required for this trip. A good pair of walking shoes is recommended special visa requirements The visa process for Bhutan requires you to provide us with a scanned colour copy of your passport as we require your full passport details (full name as it appears in your passport, nationality, date of birth, passport number, date of issue and expiry date, and occupation) at Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39

7 least 30 days before your arrival in Bhutan. Following the processing of your visa clearance we will provide you with a clearance number to enable you to board the plane from your respective airport; you will then receive a stamped visa upon arrival at Paro airport. You must carry the visa approval letter issued to you before your departure, along with 2 passport sized photos. The cost of your Bhutan visa is included in the cost of your trip. high altitude travel by vehicle Travellers sometimes drive or fly to high altitude (above 2000m) and therefore run a risk of altitude illness. This risk increases the faster one ascends and the higher the final altitude gained. The risk is reduced if the night following the ascent (sleeping altitude) is spent at low altitude, ie. If you are travelling by road, cross a high pass and descend to an altitude not more than 300 m from your starting point, the risk of altitude illness is minimized. Gaining height rapidly and staying high definitely risks developing altitude illness and you should be aware of, and watch for, the symptoms (see Acute Mountain Sickness ). You should also consider the use of acetozolamide (Diamox) as an aid to acclimatization and discuss this with your doctor or leader before departure. Should altitude illness occur the treatment is to descend and/or visit a hospital or clinic where the appropriate oxygen and medications can be administered. what s not included $1,000* for the work of Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (which can be paid by voluntary tax deductible donation or alternatively by assisted fundraising). (*don t feel you have to stop at $1000 you might be inspired to contribute/fundraise more for the important work of ACCF!) Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, , alcoholic beverages etc Tips Travel insurance - compulsory subscribe to our e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, or contact our office. trip availability If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space on our small group departures is just one of them. This itinerary requires us to secure services on your behalf; such as permits,visa invitation letters and the flight from Bangkok to Paro aboard Druk Airlines which has limited availability and schedule. The demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our team at your earliest convenience. how to book To book the Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation trip, you will need to complete a booking form which can be downloaded from the World Expeditions website com. On completion, fax or post the form to the ACCF office in Brisbane along with your nonrefundable $ per person deposit. Please also feel free to contact Philip Wyndham at World Expeditions on for any questions or assistance Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - Phil Wyndham 2 Mar :48:39