BHUTAN
CULTURAL TOUR & 5 DAY TREK

Located high in the majestic Himalayas and nestled between Tibet and India is the small Kingdom of Bhutan. The local inhabitants call this Druk Yul, the “land of the peaceful dragon.” This is a magical region where prayer flags decorate breathtaking mountain landscapes and impressive monasteries cling to sheer cliff walls. Bhutan's peaceful folk and tradition-steeped way of life combined with its pristine forests and picturesque valleys makes this one of the Earth's most spectacular destinations for trekking.

For years Bhutan deliberately isolated itself from the outside world and has only recently opened its borders to visitors. In Bhutan the Buddhist culture is integrated into every aspect of daily life, and those fortunate enough to visit describe it as a unique, deeply spiritual and mystical experience. Here, success is measured by “Gross National Happiness”, an extraordinary concept that seeks to improve the quality of life by promoting economic self-reliance, preservation of the environment and maintaining Bhutan's unique culture.

The first part of our Bhutan Cultural Tour and Druk Path Trek will be an immersion into Bhutan’s history, culture and lifestyle. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, we will do several day hikes and visit a number of Bhutan’s most important sights. Overnight lodging will be in comfortable hotels and guest houses. Then we begin a 5 day camping trek on the spectacular Druk Path. This moderately strenuous trek is supported by pack animals and takes us through thick alpine forests and groves of dwarf rhododendrons. There is a good chance we will see yaks and yak herders along the way. At the highest point of the trek, 13,800 ft. Phume La Pass, we will be greeted by an array of colorful prayer flags along with amazing views of Bhutan’s highest mountain, Gangkhar Puensum, and several other Himalayan peaks. On the trek our camps are in picturesque areas and there is trout fishing available in the lakes.

Bhutan is a trekker’s paradise and this time of year gives us the best chance to see the high Himalayan peaks. Our Bhutan Tour is the perfect blend of cultural visits and mountain trekking!

Day 1: Morning flight - Bangkok to Paro Airport in Bhutan
The flight crosses the Himalayas and has spectacular views of Bhutan’s awesome peaks. Upon arrival in Paro, we will be greeted by our guide and transferred to our hotel. In the afternoon we cross a traditional wooden bridge on the way to visit the Paro Dzong (“dzongs” are forts). Built in 1646, it now houses government offices and a National Museum with a collection of fine art paintings, statues, and antiques. Afterward we can visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country. In the evening we can stroll through Paro and see the market. Overnight in Paro, (7,600 ft.)

Day 2: Paro
After breakfast we hike to Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery, Bhutan's most famous monastery. Guru Rinpoche was said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. This picturesque monastery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff 3000 ft. above the Paro Valley. The hike to the monastery makes for a perfect warm up hike before the trek. Overnight in Paro, (7,600 ft.)

Day 3: Paro - Wangduephodrang
After breakfast we drive to Wangduephodrang, (5 hour drive) with a stop en route for lunch at Dochu La where we can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. After lunch we drive to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan and visit Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. Wangduephodrang is known for its slate and stone carvings and bamboo work. Overnight in Wangduephodrang, (5,900 ft.)

Day 4: Wangduephodrang - Thimphu
After breakfast, we take an interesting hike through the tiny villages and rice fields to the Fertility Temple. Then we drive to Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan. Hotel in Thimpu (7,600 ft.)

Day 5:Thimphu sightseeing
Grab your camera and get ready for a smorgasbord of Bhutan’s sights and culture. The day’s possibilities are many and your wishes will dictate the itinerary from a grand list of cultural, religious and governmental sights as well as a zoo! You can visit the Textile Museum, the Folk Heritage Museum and the weaving center in Changzamtok. You will also take time to finalize your preparations for the trek that starts the next morning.
Overnight in Thimphu, (7,600 ft.)

Day 6: Trekking, Motithang - Phajoding (distance 5 mi., time 4-5 hours)
After a short transfer to Motithang (8,400 ft.) we begin the trek with a scenic uphill hike through a blue pine forest to our camp at Phajoding Monastery. In the afternoon we can walk around the area and visit the monastery. Overnight camp at Phajoding Monastery, (12,000 ft.)

Day 7: Phajoding - Simkota Tsho (distance 5.2 mi., time 5-6 hours)
The trail climbs for about an hour until we reach Phume La (pass) at 13,812 ft. From here we will have a grand view of Gangkhar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan, as well as a number of other Himalayan peaks. We descend to our camp at Simkota Tsho Lake where it is possible to go trout fishing. Overnight camp at Simkota Tsho Lake, (13,254 ft.)

Day 8: Simkota Tsho - Jimilang Tsho (distance 5 mi., time 5 hours)
The trail will take us on short ups and downs, then through a yak herder camp and then it descends through dwarf rhododendrons before arriving at our overnight camp at Jimilang Tsho (Overnight camp at 11,650 ft.)

Day 9: Jimilang Tsho - Jangchu Lakha (distance 7 mi., time 5 hours)
The trek begins with an hour-long ascent, and then after a couple hours of nearly level hiking you will reach camp by lunch. In the afternoon you can take an hour hike to a ridge above the camp where there are spectacular views of Jumolhari Mountain.
Overnight camp near Jangchu Lakha, (12,400 ft.)

Day 10: Jangchu Lakha - Paro (distance 9 mi., time 6.5 hours)
There are many ups and downs above the tree line during the first half of the trail. The trail then descends through rhododendrons and a thick alpine forest to Jili Dzong before crossing Jili La Pass at 11,450 ft. You can visit the dzong before your final downhill hike to Paro.
After passing through several villages, the trail ends near the Ta Dzong in Paro. You will be met by your driver and driven to our hotel in Paro.
Overnight in Paro, (7,600 ft.)

Day 11: Depart Paro to Bangkok, or other destinations if you have made prior arrangements with us  Hotel lodging is not included.

Day 12: (Optional) Some people feel too rushed departing the morning after the trek and choose to extend the tour by spending an additional day in Paro. This would give you time for last minute shopping, a visit to the museum and the possibility to see an archery tournament.

ITINERARY CHANGES MAY BE MADE DUE TO LOCAL CONDITIONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL OR BY DISCRETION OF GROUP LEADERS. All the services described above are arranged weeks or months in advance of your trip. If airline schedule changes, unusual weather conditions or other circumstances beyond our control prevent us from operating the services according to the schedule described above, we will attempt to substitute services of equivalent value. If we are unable to do so, passengers may be responsible for additional costs due to circumstances beyond our control.

DATES: March, April, May, Sept. Oct. and Nov. departures available.

PRICE: For groups of 3 or more people: $200/day, for fewer than 4 people: $230/day. Tours of any lenght may be arranged. We can also include treks of 3 - 8 days. Cultural treks at lower elevations may also be arranged. We can also arrange tours that do not include a trek.

TRIP COST INCLUDES: hotel and guesthouse accommodations and 4 nights camping on trek, all meals beginning breakfast on day 2 through breakfast on the final day, sightseeing, all ground transportation in Bhutan, entrance fees, English-speaking local guide, cook, pack animals and animal drivers for the trek, tent for the trek

TRIP COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:  International flight to Asia, round trip flight Bangkok to Bhutan (approx. $780), travel Insurance, excess baggage charges, beverages (alcoholic, soft drinks, bottled water), optional gratuities for guide, driver and trekking crew, Bhutan visa fee - $20,  Paro airport tax - $20

THE GUIDES: Our Bhutan staff includes an experienced bilingual guide who will be with the group throughout the tour. In addition you will have a trekking staff that will be in charge of the pack animals and the cooking and camping details.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY ON THE TREK: This is a moderately strenuous trek. Pack animals will carry all of our gear and camping equipment allowing us to hike with just a daypack. On the trek you will be hiking 4 – 6 hours and covering 5 – 7 miles per day. Most days we will be hiking on undulating terrain, and the altitude gain will be 1,000 – 2,800 feet. The hightest elevation will 13,812 ft.  

TRAVEL INFORMATION

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT FROM THE USA TO BANGKOK:  You must arrive in Bangkok by the early evening the day prior to your flight to Bhutan Your lodging in Bangkok prior to your tour is included.  However, WE STRONGLY SUGGEST arriving a day early. This will give you time to get over jet lag and deal with any flight or baggage delays. PLEASE NOTE: You will be crossing the International Date Line and lose a day on your flight to Bangkok. (You may also choose to begin or end your tour in New Delhi, Calcutta or Kathmandu.

FLIGHTS TO BHUTAN: PLEASE NOTE: THE FLIGHT FROM BANGKOK, CALCUTTA, NEW DELHI OR KATHMANDU TO BHUTAN IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR COST. We will make your airline reservations on Druk Air and invoice you after the current airfares are announced. (In 2008 the Bangkok – Bhutan roundtrip airfare was $750, and price increases in 2009 are not expected to exceed 10%.)

RETURN FLIGHT FROM BHUTAN: You will return to Bangkok, New Delhi, Calcutta or Kathmandu in the mid afternoon of the last day of the tour. We do not include hotels for this night. Do not schedule any afternoon or early evening flights.

TOUR EXTENSIONS AND ALTERNATE RETURN FLIGHT POSSIBILITIES: If you choose to stay in Bhutan at the end of the tour please contact us, as permits must also be arranged well in advance of your stay. You may also choose another return destination like Calcutta, New Delhi, Katmandu, etc., to end your tour. Reservations must be booked by our agents in Bhutan well in advance of your tour as travel regulations stipulate that only tour agents in Bhutan can make airlines reservations for travel to and from Bhutan.   

THE SECRET TO STRESS FREE TRAVEL: Simply put, arrive at the starting point of your trip a day or two early. Many have told us this was one of the most important things they did to get ready for their trip. They felt rested and over their jet lag.

PASSPORT: You must have a current Passport and MAKE SURE IT DOES NOT EXPIRE WITHIN 6 MONTHS OF THE COMPLETION OF YOUR TRIP. If you need to renew your passport, please do so ASAP as delays happen.

VISAS: All travelers to Bhutan must have a Visa. We will provide you with a visa application which you will need to fill out and return to us. Once we receive your final trip payment we will submit your Visa Application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. When we arrive in Paro the visa will be stamped in your passport and will be valid for 15 days. PLEASE NOTE: YOU WILL NEED TO PAY $20US AND SUBMIT TWO PASSPORT PHOTOS AT THE AIRPORT IN PARO TO COMPLETE THE VISA PROCESS.

TRAVEL DELAYS: Nichols Expeditions is not responsible for any costs you may incur due to delays with transportation (airline or other), weather, road conditions, government intervention, sickness or other contingencies for which we are unable to control. For international flights, it is necessary to arrive 2-3 hours prior to departure (check with your carrier). If you miss your flight and we need to provide a special shuttle for you to meet up with the group, you will be responsible to pay for all extra costs.

BHUTAN INFORMATION

HOTELS: Hotels and guest houses in Bhutan are all approved by the Bhutan Department of Tourism. They are comfortable and clean, but not luxurious. Most hotels will have telephones and long distance services.

ELECTRICITY: In Bhutan, electricity runs on 220/240 volts, with round hole two-pin and three-pin power outlets. If you bring electrical appliances, also pack appropriate EU-style 2-pin adapter plugs or purchase them in Thimphu.

FOOD: The hotels and restaurants will serve a variety of dishes (Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, and Continental). It is no problem if you are a vegetarian or have food allergies. Just let your guide know, and he will instruct the chefs on what type of food to prepare for you.

WEATHER: In the spring or fall (March - May and Septebmer - November) the skies are generally sunny and clear, and you can expect daytime temperatures between 40–70 F. Temperatures drop very quickly when the sun goes down, and nighttime temperatures at high altitudes often drop to around 20F. Rain is always a possibility, so be sure to bring good raingear (both a jacket and pants).

GOVERNMENT: The government of Bhutan is a Constitutional Monarchy. Bhutan has taken the forward-thinking steps of banning tobacco, plastic shopping bags and billboards.

LANGUAGE: Dzongkha is the official language and there are a large number of local dialects. English is widely spoken, and our guide is bi-lingual.

SHOPPING: Markets are a good place to buy local clothing, handcrafts and jewelry. The Handicraft Emporium on the main street in Thimpu is open daily except Sunday.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CURRENCY EXCHANGE AND TRAVELER’S CHECKS: Traveler’s checks or US dollars can be exchanged in any branch of the Bank of Bhutan and in most hotels. Be sure to bring NEW BILLS IN GOOD CONDITION with no rips in the bills. Contact your bank in advance so they will have new bills for you.

CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS AND ATM’S: Visa cards have limited acceptability and most places will not accept Mastercard or American Express.

EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

FOOTWEAR: The importance of good fitting, quality hiking boots can not be stressed enough. You should have a light to medium weight boot with a semi-flexible rubber lug sole that offers good ankle support and traction. Blisters, caused by improperly fitted or insufficiently broken-in boots are the most common and painful problem encountered on treks. Prior to the trip, be sure your boots are broken in and you can hike in them for a full, active day with no discomfort. Waterproof your boots with several applications before the trip.

A GOOD PACK IS YOUR FRIEND: Your daypack needs to fit you properly and carry your trekking gear comfortably. The pack should be large enough to carry rain gear, warm clothing, water, camera, snacks and your first aid/blister kit on the trek. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND adding a 2 qt. hydration system to your pack or purchasing a new daypack that comes with one installed. To keep your gear dry inside we suggest a waterproof pack cover or putting everything in waterproof stuff sacks or FREEZER WEIGHT ziploc bags. We personally use both a pack cover and internal waterproof bags.

CAMERA GEAR: Unless you are a pro photographer, we suggest bringing a small, compact digital camera that fits in the palm of your hand. If you shoot a lot of photos (and you will!), consider bringing extra data cards (1-4gb) or a portable hard drive to download your photos from the day. Other useful items are lens cleaner, lens tissue, soft lens brush, a mini tabletop tripod and a clean toothbrush to remove grit from the body of your camera.

FILM WARNING FROM TSA: If you shoot a film camera, the equipment used for screening checked and carry-on baggage will damage undeveloped film. Make sure to REMOVE IT AND HAVE IT HAND INSPECTED. To expedite the screening process, carry all film in clear canisters or take the film out of solid colored canisters and put it in a clear plastic ziploc bag. DIGITAL CAMERAS AND DIGITAL MEDIA ARE NOT AFFECTED. See the TSA website for complete details - http://www.tsa.gov

CELL PHONES: Bhutan has GSM 900MHz cell phone service in the urban areas but not on most of the trek. If you have a multi-band GSM phone from the USA, check with your cell phone provider about using it in Bhutan. If you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase a SIM card and phone credit in Paro.

HEALTH INFORMATION

COLDS & FLU: Check with your doctor so see if any of your current medications lower your immunity. Airplane flights, different cities or your neighbor’s kids could all be a source of germs, and no one wants to be sick on vacation! To keep yourself healthy WASH YOUR HANDS. We also recommend carrying a small hand sanitizer gel in your pack and using it.

HIGH ALTITUDE: From our experience leading many high altitude tours and from information gathered from medical experts, we can help you understand more about the affects of traveling at high altitude and how to lessen or prevent AMS (acute mountain sickness). High altitude begins at 8,000 ft. On the first part of the tour we will spend 5 days acclimatizing at 7-8000 ft. During the trek we will spend 5 days hiking at 11-13,000 ft. and the high point is 14,000 ft.

RECOGNIZING AMS: Above 8,000 ft., many people experience some type of mild, short-lived reaction to the altitude. The most common reactions are shortness of breath, a mild headache, fatigue, dizziness, a change in breathing, loss of appetite, nausea and insomnia. These symptoms usually go away within a day or two, and when they do, this is what "being acclimatized" means. However, if after a few days you are still bothered by these symptoms, or if the symptoms become worse (vomiting, a headache that will not go away with Ibuprofen or aspirin, or decreased coordination) you have AMS. 

PREVENTING AMS: To aid in your acclimatization, drink plenty of fluids, eat mostly carbohydrates, limit strenuous exercise the first day, do not smoke, do not use depressant-type prescription sleeping pills (Melatonin is OK) and initially avoid alcoholic beverages. In addition to these precautions, and especially if you are prone to AMS, we suggest bringing Acetazolamide and Dexamethasone so you have the medications if you need them. Both are prescription medications used to prevent and treat AMS.

TREATING AMS: Treating AMS starts with recognizing and personally acknowledging the symptoms, and then assessing the severity of the symptoms and acting to reduce the affects. Treatment may require rest, prescription medications, oxygen or descent to a lower altitude.

MEDICATIONS FOR PREVENTING & TREATING AMS:
ACETAZOLAMIDE (DIAMOX) – IMPORTANT NOTE: PEOPLE WITH A SULFA ALLERGY SHOULD NOT USE ACETAZOLAMIDE. This prescription medication is the most widely used AMS preventative, and it has been shown to shorten the acclimatization process by increasing the rate and depth of breathing. Acetazolamide is a mild diuretic and common side effects are increased urination and a tingling sensation in the fingers (the tingling can be lessened by taking a potassium supplement). If there is any question about your tolerance for this medication, consider trying it at home before the tour. Suggested dose is 125 mg (cut a 250 mg dose in half) twice per day for persons below 220 lbs., and 250 mg twice per day for persons over 220 lbs. Begin taking the medication the day prior to the trek on Day 6, and continue using it twice per day until reaching the tour's maximum altitude on Day 8. Keep a few days extra in case you have trouble breathing later in the tour.

DEXAMETHASONE (DECADRON) – IMPORTANT NOTE: DEXAMETHASONE SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN TO DIABETICS OR ANYONE FOR WHOM STEROIDS ARE CONTRAINDICATED. This prescription medication is a steroidal anti-inflammatory used primarily to treat AMS. The medical community is split on its use as a prophylactic to aid acclimatization, but it may be a reasonable alternative for those with a sulfa allergy who cannot tolerate Acetazolamide. They do agree that Dexamethasone is effective for treating AMS. As a prophylactic, dosage is 4 mg twice per day starting the first day of the trek (Day 7), and continuing for a few days until no symptoms occur, then taper off gradually. As a treatment for AMS, take two 4 mg doses 6 hours apart. Do not ascend until at least 12 hours after the last dose, and then only if there are no symptoms of AMS.

GINKGO BILOBA EXTRACT – This dietary supplement is available over the counter and it has been shown to be effective in preventing or lessening the symptoms of AMS. It has yet to be determined exactly how Ginkgo Biloba works at altitude, but it may act as an antioxidant, reducing stress on tissues that have been injured by low oxygen levels. The recommended dose of Ginkgo Biloba extract (24% flavonoid glycosides, 6% terpenoids) is 80 - 120 mg twice a day, starting 5 days before the tour and continuing while at altitude.

IF YOU HAVE A SULFA ALLERGY - For those who are allergic to Sulfa drugs, here are two other prescription medications to discuss with your doctor: oral NIFEDIPINE and SALMETEROL (SEREVENT).

WEB SOURCES FOR ADDITIONAL AMS INFORMATION:
Base Camp MD - http://www.basecampmd.com/expguide/amspremed.shtml
International Society For Mountain Medicine -http://www.ismmed.org/np_altitude_tutorial.htm#AMS
MD Travel Health - http://www.mdtravelhealth.com/illness/altitude_sickness.html
CIWEC Clinic Travel Medicine Center In Katmandu, Nepal - http://ciwec-clinic.com/

PUBLISHED SOURCES FOR ADDITIONAL AMS INFORMATION:
Wilderness Medicine: Management of Wilderness and Environmental Emergencies, by Paul S. Auerbach, Mosby – Year Book Publication, 3rd edition, 1995.
High Altitude Medicine and Physiology, by John B. West, Robert B. Schoene & James S. Milledge, A Hodder Arnold Publication, 4th edition, 2007.
High Altitude Medicine, written & published by Herb Hultgren, 1997.

SUGGESTED SUPPLIERS OF OUTDOOR GEAR:
The following are suggested suppliers of quality outdoor gear:
Patagonia - the top source for camp clothing, www.patagonia.com
Campmor - all your camping gear needs, www.campmor.com
REI - lots of travel clothing & camping gear, www.rei.com
L. L. Bean - for travel clothing & camping gear, www.llbean.com
Sierra Trading Post - good deals on outdoor clothing & camping gear, www.sierratradingpost.com
Travel Smith - ventilated & sun blocking clothing, www.travelsmith.com
Zeal Optics - great fitting polarized sunglasses, www.zealoptics.com

The key to having the right clothing is purchasing quality items that you test at home before the tour, and layering your clothing to create the right balance of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. AVOID ALL COTTON CLOTHING on this tour! If it gets wet it can become a hypothermia hazard, and it is hard to dry after you wash it by hand. Please follow the equipment list and only bring what is necessary.

November weather in Bhutan is generally sunny and clear, and you can expect daytime temperatures between 40–70F. Temperatures drop very quickly when the sun goes down, and nighttime temperatures at higher altitudes can drop into the 20’sF. Rain is always a possibility.

TOILETRIES & PERSONAL ITEMS
__ Toilet kit - sample sizes of biodegradable soap, shampoo, skin lotion, toothpaste, put
     all liquids in a quart ziploc to prevent spills and for TSA security
__ Waterless gel hand cleaner - 4 oz. bottle for quick hand washing before eating
__ Handi-wipe towelettes – adult sized, for clean-up in your tent on trek, 4-6 per day on trek
__ Small camp towel
__ Sun & lip screen - essential for the high altitude, waterproof, SPF 30 minimum
__ Small insect repellent  
__ Headlamp or flashlight – install new batteries & bring spare batteries
__ Roll of toilet paper & a few extra ziplocs (for used paper) packed in qt. ziploc bag
__ Travel alarm
__ Earplugs - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, all foreign hotels and tent mates are noisy!

CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR DRESS IN BHUTAN: In general, the Bhutanese dress modestly, so anything too revealing is discouraged and men should not go shirtless. On the trek, it is OK for men and women to wear hiking shorts and T-shirts. In the towns, women should wear long pants or long skirts, men should wear long pants and shorts are not appropriate for anyone. In the dzongs and temples, the legs and arms must be covered, and even three-quarter-length capri pants are not acceptable for women.
 
PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT
__ for altitude - Acetazolamide, Ginkgo Biloba, Dexamethasone, tampons (cycles may be
    erratic at altitude)
__ for travelers diarrhea – Immodium, Ciprofloxacin antibiotic, anti-acid, Pepto-Bismol tablets
__ for pain relief - aspirin/ibuprofen/Tylenol
__ for colds & allergy - cold-symptom relief tablets, antihistamines, cough drops
__ for motion sickness - Dramamine,
__ for wounds & blisters - antibiotic cream, Hydrocortisone cream, cloth band-aids, first aid
    tape, moleskin, sm. roll of duct tape for blister prevention, 2nd skin, small scissors
NOTE: MAKE SURE ALL PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS ARE IN THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINERS WITH YOUR NAME ON THEM!

CAMPING GEAR
Note: 2 person tents and foam sleeping pads are provided on the trek
__ Sleeping bag - rated 10 - 20°F, compact with a waterproof stuff sack, or line a regular stuff
    sack with a plastic trash compactor bag before stuffing sleeping bag (rentals are not
    available)
__ Collapsible hiking poles - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, they will take tons of weight off your
    knees, especially on the downhills, the benefits far outweigh the investment!
__ Pee-jar - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED to prevent "late night walks to the john," 1 quart plastic
    water bottle w/ regular top for men and a wide top for women. You will be glad you did!

BAGS & PACKS
__ Daypack w/ hydration system & waterproof pack cover – use as carry-on for flying & on
    trek to carry rain gear, warm clothing, water, camera, snacks and your first aid kit
__ 2 Water bottles or 2 qt. hydration system
__ Medium to large duffel bag – for clothing & camp gear, will be carried on pack animals on
    the trek, we suggest a waterproof duffel or a heavy duty nylon duffel that you line with a
    plastic trash compactor bag.  Be sure to line the sleeping bag stuff sack and clothes stuff
    sack with plastic bags or use waterproof stuff sacks for these items.
__ Small roll-up duffel – for travel clothing not taken on trek, carry rolled up in larger duffel
    until needed, can be left at trek office during trek
__ TSA approved padlocks - to lock zippers on all duffels
__ Ziploc bags - assorted sizes, for small items like liquids, books, camera, film, etc.
__ Plastic trash compactor bags – these are the strongest available, to line duffels and packs
PLEASE NOTE: Baggage weight limits for the flight from Bangkok to Bhutan - checked baggage 44 lbs., and carry-on baggage 11 lbs. 

 OPTIONAL ITEMS:
__ Thermarest sleeping pad or inflatable air mattress – a foam pad is provided on trek
__ Down booties with soles – for cold evenings & mornings in camp
__ Umbrella – a small lightweight model that is compact & easy to pack, check this one:
     http://www.prolitegear.com/site/image.html?sku=montbell_ultralight_umbrella
__ Camera with new batteries, spare batteries, extra memory cards (see CAMERA GEAR)
__ Binoculars, book, journal, pocket knife (pack properly for airport security)
__ Energy bars/snacks – 1-2 per day, WE SUGGEST bring your favorites from home
__ Laundry kit - small amt. of powdered laundry detergent in a ziploc, 8-10 clothespins & 25
    ft. of 1/8 in. nylon rope for a clothesline, pack in a 1 qt. ziploc bag or sm. zipper mesh bag

PACKING SUGGESTIONS:

Make it easy and limit yourself to 3 bags. If you transfer flights on route to Bangkok, make sure you have adequate time between flights so your baggage arrives when you do.

Carry-on daypack -This will also be your trekking pack. On the flight pack it with your passport, money, credit cards, airline tickets, clothes for a few days, and all essential personal items: small toilet kit, medications, camera, film (never put film in checked bags). Wear your hiking boots to save space in your daypack and so they do not get lost. REMEMBER: DO NOT PACK RESTRICTED ITEMS IN YOUR CARRY-ON.

Medium to large duffel bag – This will be your checked bag packed with additional clothing and camping gear, and secured with a TSA approved padlock. Duffels load the best on the pack animals we use to transport all of the camping gear on the trek.

Small roll-up duffel – For purchases made in Bhutan and for leaving any travel clothing you do not want to bring on the trek. Light weight nylon with a TSA approved padlock for the zipper.

PLEASE NOTE: Baggage weight limits for the flight from Bangkok to Bhutan - checked baggage 44 lbs., and carry-on baggage 11 lbs. 

Packing Hint #1: Limit your luggage to a carry-on daypack and a checked duffel bag with a sm. duffel packed inside.
Packing Hint #2: Freezer-weight Ziploc plastic bags are lightweight, inexpensive, and see-through. They make a great waterproof hiking wallet and are indispensable for packing items like clothing, books, toilet kits, and lotions in your baggage.
Packing Hint #3: Travel-size samples save space and weight! Visit the "samples section" of your drugstore or supermarket and see if your favorite shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion, toothpaste and deodorant are available in travel-size samples. If not, transfer some to smaller plastic bottles in the size you need. Remember to plastic bag all lotions!
Packing Hint #4: Think multiple use garments. Convertible pants with zip-off legs save bringing an extra pair of shorts. Be creative and keep that baggage light!
Packing Hint #5: Packing Hint #5: Do your own laundry. If you bring synthetic clothing, you can easily wash it and hang it to dry.

RESERVATIONS: For complete reservation information click here.