EXCELLENTBased on 17 reviews
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Jay B6 April 2024As I reflect on my journey, memories flood back of the breathtaking displays of the northern lights, the pristine glacier water, the magical allure of the ice caves, and the exhilarating gusts of wind that threatened to whisk me away. And let's not forget the incredible culinary delights that Iceland had to offer. Arun's expertise in selecting our accommodations and destinations ensured that we experienced the full spectrum of Iceland's wonders. Arun is also incredibly patient with any photography-related questions. Over the course of our 10-day journey, I learned a plethora of skills, particularly in night photography and framing, which was incredibly rewarding as a beginner. There was a sense of family with the entire group and am fortunate to have met such lovely people!!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Madhura Mallya2 April 2024After returning from the Iceland trip, it feels as though I've returned from another world. Traveling with Arun was an incredible experience. He ensured we spent quality time at each destination during our 10-day journey, which seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. We encountered everything from extreme weather conditions like wind, sand, cold, and snow to delightful sunny days. Arun also introduced us to delicious Icelandic seafood at the best local restaurants. Alongside other photographers on the trip, Arun taught me valuable mobile photography techniques. Overall, my Iceland trip was immensely satisfying, made even better by Arun's guidance. I highly recommend!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Anindya Das2 April 2024A group trip ends succesfully when there are right kind of people and appropriate planning for the trip. Arun has been able to pull both in our Iceland March 2024 trip. He has used his experience in planning the trip as perfectly as it can be possible. We had an amazing time of 5 days of aurora, crazy sunsets, road trips, extra ordinary waterfalls, glaciers and what not. The stays were chosen very wisely and we had very comfortable stays in the trip. Overall we have enjoyed to the fullest, created lifelong memories and saw the extra ordinary beauty of Iceland.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasanth Ramesh Nayak2 April 2024I learnt about this trip via word of mouth and then going through the list of places being covered. The list gave me a sense of feeling that we are covering most of the places and at the same time not hurrying through the places just to cover them! Once we started the trip, we came to know each other and it felt like a closely knit group and we enjoyed the same. Learnt a bit about photography being a part of this . The places which were chosen to stay were also nice which were carefully chosen with major locations in vicinity as well as had all the amenities needed. It was a very enjoyable trip which was curated with love and care and will stay in my memory for a long time to come.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
pallavi kotha24 January 2024Highly recommend! Perfectly planned. Handpicked home-stays. Warm fun people. 10/10 Experience.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
VIVEK PONNAPPA21 January 2024Post pandemic I was unable to make time for travel due to my shift in priorities, but Tales and Trails ensured that I did not have to plan a lot to have a break. The experience was quite what i needed and Arun ensured that the group was engaged creating lasting memories and friendships. Looking forward to my next time with this firm for my next expedition.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Kalyan Sabareeshan19 January 2024Did my first trip with Takes & Trails in Dec 2023 to Spiti. It was an epic experience - met some amazing people who became like family and had some authentic local experiences along the way. If you're someone with the spirit of a wanderer who likes to embrace all kinds of experiences, then do sign up for a trip with T&T. You'll definitely have a memorable one! Here are some pictures from my trip...Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Suraj Krishnan19 January 2024Have been part of Spiti Winter and Summer expeditions. Had been a life changing experience to see the same terrain in different seasons
Discover the magic of Bhutan, a land where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. Journey through lush green tea plantations and national parks, marvel at the fluttering prayer flags at the mystical Dochula Pass, and embark on an unforgettable hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched high on a dramatic cliff. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, savor unique local delicacies, and embrace the tranquil beauty of this extraordinary Himalayan kingdom.
April 17-22, 2025
Bagdogra
Boutique Hotels/ Homestays
6 nights, 7 days
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Not exceeding 12
Drive time: 3 – 4 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Phuentsholing
After breakfast, we’ll head to the permit office to complete necessary paperwork. Once processed, we’ll depart Phuentsholing by 11 am. The journey to Thimphu offers a stunningly scenic drive through picturesque landscapes. As you ascend, you’ll experience a gradual change in scenery from the subtropical lowlands to the cooler, higher altitudes of Thimphu, with winding roads and stunning mountain vistas.
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours (with lunch and snack stops)
Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Start your day at the stunning Golden Buddha Point, where the giant golden statue offers panoramic views of Thimphu. Relax at a cozy café and dive into local delicacies. Visit the local post office for a unique twist—click pictures and design a customized stamp to send personalized postcards to your friends and family!
In the afternoon, we’ll journey to Dochula Pass. Nestled at 10,200 feet above sea level, Dochula Pass offers mesmerizing 360 degree views of Bhutan’s highest peaks and is often enveloped in a mist, creating an otherworldly experience. Learn about the historical importance of this mountain pass. Its peaceful ambiance today contrasts with its tumultuous past.
Later, we’ll make our way to a riverside campsite. Unwind and immerse yourself in nature’s splendor.
Drive time: 2 – 3 hours
Accommodation: [ Â Â ] in [ Â Â ]
After breakfast, we’ll visit Chimi Lhakhang, an ancient Fertility Temple in Punakha. Phallus symbols are commonly found adorning doorways, hanging from rooftops, or painted on the corners of homes in various sizes and colors throughout Bhutan to ward off evil spirits. Talk about a unique cultural experience!Â
Then, we’ll enjoy the scenic journey to Chele La Pass, one of Bhutan’s highest passes at around 13,000 feet. It is celebrated for its high elevation, stunning vistas, vibrant prayer flags, and its role as a gateway to Bhutan’s rich natural and cultural landscape.We’ll also stop by the Paro river, near a charming hanging rope bridge. The river flows near several important cultural and historical sites, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery which we will be visiting next! Nature and photography lovers, this is your time to click away.
Drive time: 5 – 6 hours (with lunch and snack stops)
Accommodation: [Â Â Â star] hotel in Paro
Get ready for the highlight of the trip as we hike up to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery! Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff in the Paro Valley of Bhutan (10,240 ft), Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is an iconic Buddhist site, shrouded in myth and legend. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, flew to this location on the back of a tigress, thus earning the name Tiger’s Nest!Â
The well-marked trail to the monastery commences at the mountain’s base and meanders through lush green pine forests and rhododendron bushes. The trail is about 7.2 km round trip, typically taking 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level and pace.
We’ll also dive into Bhutan’s national sport—archery! Get ready for a fun and exciting experience as we test our skills with this traditional pastime.
Trek time: 4 – 6 hours
Trek level: Easy to moderate
Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
After breakfast, we’ll set off to explore Paro Dzong, a phenomenal monastery and fortress and a high point of Bhutanese architecture. The dzong’s formal name, Rinchen Pung Dzong, means ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’. The fort was used on numerous occasions to defend the Paro valley from invasions. The dzong now houses both the monastic body and district government offices, including the local courts.Â
We’ll make our way back to the lively border town of Phuentsholing. Time to soak in the last of our Bhutanese adventure.
Drive time: 4-5 hours (with lunch and snack stops)
Accommodation: Hotel in Phuentsholing
Once again, it’s time to undertake the scenic journey from Phuentsholing to Bagdogra airport, where we will wrap up our epic adventure and bid adieu!
Drive time: 3 – 4 hours to Bagdogra airport
Arun will be your adventure leader in the Land of the Thunder Dragon! A native of God’s own Country, Arun transitioned from an aerospace engineer to a full-time traveler and photographer, passionately showcasing his unique frames through elements of visual harmony. After refusing to settle for the mundane and quitting his corporate career, he biked through some of the most breathtaking trails in India and abroad, made innumerable friends along the way and captured well over 500,000 photographs. He has led over 25 trips.
Arun adores it when people completely indulge in what they genuinely love. Tales and Trails was born from Arun’s profound love for photography and his desire to share the magic of his experiences with others.
Expedition Cost (Regular) | Details |
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Cost (Regular) | ₹[ ] per person (inclusive of [ ]% GST) |
Advance Payment | ₹[ ] per person required to secure your booking. . |
Balance Payment | |
₹[ ] per person due on or before [ ] 2025. |
Expedition Cost (Early Bird) | Details |
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Cost (Early Bird) | ₹[ ] (inclusive of [ ]% GST) per person, if booked before [ ], 2025 |
Advance Payment | ₹[ ] per person required to secure your booking. |
Balance Payment | |
₹[ ] per person due on or before [ ] 2025. |
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
Travel Documents for Bhutan: As an Indian citizen, you will need:
Note: Always check for the latest travel requirements before your trip.
Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you.Â
Health and Safety: During our Bhutan adventure, we will embark on multiple hikes. As we explore breathtaking landscapes, a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll need to carry your own luggage, though we’ll provide assistance where possible—just keep in mind that offloading isn’t available in most areas.
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