Trek Bhutan with Back Track in 2013

2013

www.backtrackadventures.com.au 1300 669 780

1300 669 780

• proudly Australian owned an

d op

erat

ed •

1984–2013

Jomolhari Base Camp/Laya/Gasa trekTigers Nest Monastery

Punakha Dzong Thimpu weekend market

Optional FREE river raftingand so much more…

Page 2 | Back Track Adventures Bhutan - 2013

www.backtrackadventures.com.au

Bhutan - 2013 Back Track Adventures | Page 3


BhutanSo much about the isolated, landlocked, Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan is enchantingly unique.

Even its local name, Druk Yul meaning ‘The Land of the Thunder Dragon’, evokes images of dark antiquity. The reality is no less startling - the National philosophy is based on attaining ‘Gross National Happiness’; the National dish is chillies in cheese sauce; the National sport is archery: the National animal is the ‘takin’, a weird goat/cow/moose mishmash; the rice is red and it’s illegal to buy cigarettes.

Bhutan promotes a policy of low volume tourism so the country remains wonderfully pristine and the traditional lifestyle is still preserved. While Bhutan is throwing off the veil of mystery and opening itself to travellers, the rich cultural heritage is evident; from mighty cliff-side fortresses, legendary monasteries, colourful prayer flags on mountain passes, vibrant mask dances to the timeless practice of traditional arts. Bhutan will mesmerise you.

Join Back Track in Bhutan and be surprised, astounded and amazed.

Back Track Adventures have operated small group, guided adventure holidays since 1985.

Our aim is to give you the best holiday you’ve ever had!

Your trek leader from Australia and the local, English speaking guide will strive to ensure that you truly experience the areas you visit in an up close and personal manner, in comfortable style and relaxed pace.

Back Track’s Bhutan trek leans on our 29 years of experience leading high altitude Himalayan treks. We have chosen a breathtakingly beautiful trek along lofty trails, past herds of grazing yak, over mountain passes and into remote, heavily forested valleys. The trek is graded challenging and will suit those with a sound level of walking fitness, a willingness to ‘rough it’ if required and an intention to undertake some fitness training prior to departure.

In recognition of the ancient traditions of Bhutan we spend 5 days enjoying the sights, staying in comfortable hotels. During these non-trekking days we drive through spectacularly rugged countryside while visiting old fortress monasteries, museums and local markets.

Bhutan is a wonderful travel destination. We extend an invitation to anyone with a spirit of adventure to join us. You won’t be disappointed.

See you in Bhutan in 2013.



ItineraryTRIP OVERVIEW

Day 1 Arrive in Paro, 2280m. Free airport/hotel transfer for those arriving on Druk Air flight. Visit National Museum and Paro Rimpung Dzong. Hotel accommodation.

D

Day 2 Visit 'Tiger's Nest' Monastery 3140m. Hotel accommodation in Paro.

BLD

Day 3 Drive to Drugyel Dzong and start trekking. Camp at Shana, 2820m.

BLD

Day 4 Trek to Thangthangka camp, 3580m. Fine views of Mt. Jumolhari, 7314m.

BLD

Day 5 Trek to Jangothang camp, 4080m. Pass through small villages into an area rich in birdlife.

BLD

Day 6 Acclimatisation day in Jangothang camp, 4080m. Numerous opportunities for side treks.

BLD

Day 7 Trek to Lingshi camp, 4000m. Cross Nyilie La, a 4890m pass.

BLD

Day 8 Trek to Chebisa camp, 3990m. Easy walk through villages and yak herders camps.

BLD

Day 9 Trek to Shomuthang camp, 4220m. Cross Gogu La, 4440m. May sight Blue Sheep today.

BLD

Day 10 Trek to Robluthang camp, 4160m. Cross Jhari La, 4600m. May sight Bhutan's national animal, the Takin.

BLD

Day 11 Trek to Lemithang camp, 4140m. Cross Shinche La, 5005m. Fine views of Mt. Ganchey Ta, 6840m.

BLD

Day 12 Trek to Laya Village, 3800m. Campsite is near Laya village, the second highest settlement in Bhutan.

BLD

Day 13 Rest day in Laya Village. Time for exploration of the village and surrounding areas

BLD

Day 14 Trek to Koina camp, 3240m. Pass through juniper and fir forest.

BLD

Day 15 Trek to Gasa Tshachu camp 2200m. Cross Bele La, 3900m. Visit the 17th century Gasa monastery.

BLD

Day 16 Drive to Punakha 1250m. Optional free river rafting en route. Hotel accommodation.

BLD

Day 17 Visit Punaka Dzong, built in 1637. Drive to Thimpu, the capitol of Bhutan. Hotel accommodation.

BLD

Day 18 Visit Thimpu Weekend Market in the morning. Drive to Paro in the afternoon. Hotel accommodation.

BLD

Day 19 Tour ends. After breakfast transfer to Paro Airport for those departing on Druk Air flight.

B

Meals included as indicated: B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

DAY 1: FRIDAY, 04 OCTOBER - ARRIVE PARO, 2280M

The flight into Paro on Bhutan’s national carrier, Druk Air, is a befitting introduction to the spectacular beauty of the country. In clear weather, magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks, give way to the lush green Paro valley. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by Back Track’s representative who will escort you to your hotel. In the afternoon we visit Ta Dzong (DZONG: a fortified monastery containing monk’s quarters and government offices) which now houses the National Museum. Below the museum is the Paro Rimpung Dzong, the centre of civil and religious authority in this valley. A short walk takes you to the base of the dzong and across a traditional cantilevered, covered bridge. A short distance further is one of the innumerable archery grounds. (Archery is the national sport of Bhutan). If we are lucky, we may see a match in action.

DAY 02: HIKE TO TAKTSHANG (TIGER NEST), 3140M PARO VALLEY SIGHTSEEING

After breakfast drive to the road point access of Taktshang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. Taktshang means “Tiger’s Nest,” so named because Guru Rimpoche reportedly flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a flying tiger in the late centuries of the first millennium. The monastery is perched on a cliff nearly 1000m above the Paro valley floor. This day hike is not only historically and culturally interesting, but also incredibly scenic! It takes about two hours to reach the cafeteria, which gives a breathtaking view of the Tiger’s Nest. If you still feel like hiking you can take another hour to reach the temple. Return to Paro for the evening

DAY 03: DRUKGYEL DZONG (PARO) – SHANA, 2820MDuration 5 hours, Distance 15 Km

Drive from Paro to the trek start point at Drukgyel Dzong (2580m), the fortress that once guarded Paro Valley against Tibetan invaders. The first day is a pleasant walk following the left bank of the Pachu River. A farm road serves as the trek route and passes through a number of very small villages with traditional houses and rice and vegetable fields on either side of the trail.

After about an hour’s walk, the farm road ends at Mitsizamp. Crossing a bridge to the right side of the river, the trail climbs very gradually for another hour through the trees to Zakhapang (2,600m), where a nice lunch spot in an open field is found. After lunch the trek continues through blue pine forests, following close to the river. Gunyitsawa army outpost appears not long before the end of the day. The campsite at Shana, just beyond, is situated at an altitude of 2,820m in a beautiful open space surrounded by blue pine forest. Two traditional houses on the other side of the wide, fast-flowing river make up Shana village.



Bhutan

Paro Thimphu

Punakha

Gasa

Laya

Jomolhari

BHUTAN

BHUTAN

TIBET

INDIA

SIKKIM

RoadTrek

DAY 04: SHANA-SOI THANGTHANGKA, 3580MDuration 8 hours, Distance 22 Km

This is a long trekking day, taking eight hours to reach the campsite. The trail continues to follow the river; gradually ascending through a mixed forest of blue pine and oak and, later in the afternoon, tall rhododendron trees, birch, fir and maple. Though the trail is a rough and rocky path, it is not too strenuous. In rainy conditions it can be quite muddy. There are several simple wooden bridges to cross and sometimes the river reaches right up to the trail. The lunch break comes after about 4 hours of walking through an ever-narrowing valley. Shing Karap or Thombuzam are popular stopping places at around 3,305m.

Several trails lead in other directions, such as the trail to Tremo La (LA: Pass), which was the old salt-trading route to Tibet. Not long before reaching the campsite, the trail leads you up a ridge with a chorten (CHORTEN: Buddhist monument). Beyond, in the distance at the end of the valley Mt. Jomolhari (7314m) comes into view. Finally, after an 8 hour walk, you reach the campsite located in a spacious clearing and directly facing Jumolhari. The view next morning of the sun’s rays striking the peak is breathtaking.

DAY 05: SOI-THANGTHANGKA-JANGOTHANG, 4080MDuration 5-6 hours, Distance 19 Km

The third day’s trek is shorter so it’s possible to set off a little later and progress at a leisurely pace. When you reach an army outpost you are required to stop and register your entry permits issued by the army headquarters in Thimphu. This matter will be taken care of by your guide.

The Pachu River is again to the right and the trail passes through some tiny villages. It will take less than six hours to reach Jangothang. The altitude at the camp is 4,080m and is a beautiful place to spend the night. The imposing, rounded bulk of Jomolhari fills the view to the Northeast and in the evening the profile of the ruined Jangothang Dzong, populated by huge ravens, creates a mystical atmosphere. The area is rich in bird life including the fire-tailed sunbird, ibisbill, white throated dipper, yellow-billed chough, rosy pipit, snow pigeon, blue-fronted redstart, plumbeous water redstart, blood pheasant, snow partridge and many more.

DAY 06: JANGOTHANG, 4080M Rest and acclimatisation

Today is a day to rest and acclimatise to the altitude. The body also needs time to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There are a number of opportunities to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. To aid acclimatisation a walk to a higher altitude then returning to sleep at a lower altitude is a important and strongly recommended. A 2 hour leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu. You can also do a 4 hour trek to get excellent views of the cone-shaped Jichu Drakye (6989m) which resembles the Matterhorn. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.

DAY 07: JANGOTHANG – LINGSHI, 4000MDuration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km

As you climb steeply into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakye and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. A steep and steady climb, perhaps through snow, brings you to the Nyile La, a pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy a 360 degree view. Tshering Gang (6,789) also comes into full view. A fairly tough trek over scree or snow leads down to the valley and then follows the side of a ridge towards the impressively situated Lingshi Dzong (4,370m). The camp site is some distance below the Dzong on a flat area near a community building made of stones, at an altitude of 4000m.



DAY 08: LINGSHI – CHEBISA, 3990MDuration 5-6 hours, Distance 10 Km

Shortly after leaving camp, cross a stream on a wooden bridge and and ascend to reach a chorten below Lingshi Dzong, perched on the hilltop with a commanding view of the green hills, the winding river and magnificent peaks. Descend to Lingzhi village noteable as a centre for medicinal herbs.

From Ligzhi it’s an easy, pleasant walk through villages and yak herders’ camps. Lunch will be served at scenic Goyuna village. After lunch it’s a short walk to Chebisa village and then to camp by the side of a stream at an altitude of 3990 meters.

DAY 09: CHEBISA – SHOMUTHANG, 4220MDuration 6-7 hours, Distance 17 Km

Today begins with a stiff climb up a ridge to Gogu La at an altitude of 4440 meters, taking nearly 4 hours to the top. After the pass descends through rhododendron forest to a valley of dense forests of birch and fir trees.

The trek continues along an undulating path. After crossing a stream, proceed through rhododendron forests and across yak herder’s camps. You may see some flocks of Blue Sheep grazing among the rocky crags above the trail. This is the Shakshepasa valley, one of the most beautiful valleys on the trek. Ascend on a steep trail up the side of the valley to 4220m before a traverse past yak headers huts. Camp is beside a stream at Shomuthang.

DAY 10: SHOMUTHANG – ROBLUTHANG, 4160MDuration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km

The trek starts with an ascent up the valley, criss-crossing the stream. Climb to Jhari La (4,600m) then descend on a switchback trail that becomes rough and rocky as it enters a rhododendron forest. The trail enters the Tsheri Jathang valley, the summer grazing ground of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s National animal). From here we may have to wade across the stream as the footbridge is frequently washed away. After crossing the stream towards the left bank the trail ascends to Robluthang camp at an altitude of 4160 meters.

DAY 11: ROBLUTHANG – LEMITHANG, 4140MDuration 7-8 hours, Distance 19 Km

A long climb up to the Shinche La (5005 meters). Blue sheep may be seen from the trail. The views of the mountains from the pass are breathtaking. After the pass descend on a rough trail which crosses numerous streams. After lunch the trail descends steeply to the floor of a valley then climbs through a rhododendron forest. Reach a plateau and pass through a cedar forest to our camp.

The last part of the trek has fine views of the peak of Gangchey Ta (6840m).

DAY 12: LEMITHANG - LAYA. 3800MSDuration 4-5 hours, Distance 10 Km

In the morning you wake up with a superb view of Gangchey Ta in front of you. The walk to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views. You will pass through a damp forest, filled with moss and singing birds. Arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The administrative name for the area is Layagewog and the main villages are Toko, Pashi, Neilo, Lubcha, Tonfra and Lungo. Laya is also part of the Jigme Dorji National Park.

DAY 13: REST DAY IN LAYA 3840M

Today we can explore the Laya village and see how the villagers live in this high altitude. The village is in one of the most beautiful valleys in the kingdom. You will be doing a short hike after your breakfast in Laya area, and then return for your lunch at the camp. Have a rest at the camp in the afternoon.

DAY 14: LAYA – KOINA (RIVER SIDE CAMP) 3240MDuration 6 hours, Distance 18 Km

Descend to an army camp and join the Mo Chu and follow the river until you cross the bridge. After the bridge it’s up and down several times through juniper and fir forests until you reach the camp at Koina at an altitude of 3,240 meters.

The campsite at Koina is muddy, with no proper space to put up tents in case of rain. We may need to continue for another 2 hours to a better campsite beside the Mo Chu. Bears and Takins have been sighted in this area.

DAY 15: KOINA (RIVER SIDE) – GASA 2760MDuration 9 hours, Distance 20 Km

We begin early as it is the last and the longest day of your trek. Although you are heading downstream, the climbs on this trek are not yet finished. There is another major climb ahead to get over Bari La Pass at an altitude of 3900m. After the pass, it’s downhill until you reach Gasa village at the altitude of 2760 meters. We will be camping beside the small bazaar in Gasa.

DAY 16: GASA TSHACHU – PUNAKHA, 1250MDrive 3.5 hours, River raft 2 hours

We start the long drive towards Punakha. The drive descends through heavily forested areas on a winding road, high above the valley floor. The gradient eases as we stop in a small park for a lunch beside the river. The afternoon drive continues alongside the Mo Chhu until we reach the rafting launch point. The easy grade raft journey flows through scenic farmland past Royal Family residences to the town of Punakha. Overnight at the Zangto Pel Ri Hotel.

DAY 17: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU Drive 2.5 hours

In the morning visit Punakha Dzong the old capital of Bhutan. It was built in 1637 and is one of the most beautiful and biggest Dzongs in Bhutan. The drive today ascends over Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3100m. On a clear day one can have a magnificent view of the eastern Himalayan range of peaks.

Upon arrival in Thimphu, capital city of Bhutan you will visit the weekend market where people from the Western part of Bhutan come to sell their farm produce and other goods. Overnight stay in Thimphu at Hotel Pelding.

DAY 18: THIMPHU – PARO Drive 1 hour

Morning visit to the School of Arts and Crafts to see the students learning 13 different age old traditional arts and crafts. We then visit Handicraft Emporium, if you are interested in last minute souvenir shopping. After lunch drive to Paro. In the evening you will be served a grand dinner at the restaurant in Paro town.

DAY 19: TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER FLIGHT DEPARTURE FROM PARO

Our guide and driver will drop you at the airport to bid you good bye for your flight departure.



Pricing and Dates

Trip Duration: 19 days ex Paro

From Paro 04 – 22 October, 2013

Costs for 2013*

From Paro $5,690

Airfare from Druk Air Bangkok/Paro/Bangkok $900

Single Supplement Tent Only $385Hotel & Tent $595

ex-Australia please contact Back Track for pricing for the best airfares from Australia

Cost includes: Visa for Bhutan - Services of experienced trek leader/tour escort from Australia – comprehensive pre departure information guide.

City service inclusions: All meals, all transportation, local English speaking guide, 4 star accommodation Paro, Thimpu and Punakha, sightseeing and site entrance fees, tips for tour guide and driver.

Trek service inclusions: All meals, skilled cooks and kitchen crew, local English speaking guide with an assistant guide, sleeping tents (twin sharing basis), dining tent with table and chairs, toilet tents, kitchen tent, comfortable sleeping mat, evening tea/coffee with snacks, ponies for carrying trekking equipment and trekkers personal equipment, morning bed tea with washing water, all park entrance fees and trekking permits, tips for trekking crew.

Cost does not include: Personal travel insurance (compulsory, allow $200-$250) - meals other than those specified in the itinerary – sleeping bag for trek (warm sleeping bags are available for hire in Paro for $US7 per night) – drinks other than tea, coffee or soft drinks provided with meals – personal donations to monasteries.

Group size: minimum 8, maximum 15 people plus trek leader/tour escort

*All prices are subject to change without notice at anytime.

You will be joined in Bhutan by Back Track’s trek leader, Chris Rowe. Chris has trekked over the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea and in the Annapurna and Everest regions of Nepal. In 2012, he was a member of the trek management team that guided Back Track’s first Bhutan trek. Chris’ easy going manner and love of adventure make him an ideal trekking companion.You will also be accompanied throughout by Rinzin Dorje, an experienced, professional, English speaking guide who will be happy and honoured to share his knowledge. An expert driver will handle the road transportation before and after the trek. He will safely deliver you to your destination.A support team of guides, kitchen staff and pony handlers will join you on the trek. Your interaction with the local crew will greatly enhance your enjoyment.In Bhutan we are welcomed by our local partner, Jigme Tshering, owner of Bhutan Travel Adventures. Jigme is a warm, gracious host and his friendly, smiling manner is representative of Bhutan itself.

Back Track Crew

Chris Rowe, Trek Leader

Jigme Tshering, Owner of Bhutan Travel Adventures, Back Track’s partner in Bhutan

Rinzin Dorje, Bhutan Trekking Guide

The Bhutan itinerary is meant as a guide only. The walking times stated are approximate only and may vary with weather and trail conditions, individual fitness and overall group strength. The trek itinerary may change due to adverse weather conditions or circumstances beyond Back Track’s control. Every effort will be made to minimize any inconvenience.

Back Track Adventures222A Barry Parade, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006PO Box 132, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Phone 07 3850 7655 | Fax 07 3854 1079email [email protected] www.backtrackadventures.com.au

ABN 23 910 991 873 | Licence Number 177/178 | Member AFTA, TCF, WTAAA

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Bhutan Assist Line: 1300 669 780

BHU

BRO-13-09

• proudly Australian owned an

d op

erat

ed •

1984–2013

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Back Track Adventures | Bhutan 2013 | Page 1 of 2

Bhutan Booking Form 2013BH

UBO

OK-13-03

1. CheCk AvAilABiliTy: Call Back Track Adventures to check availability of your preferred trek. Treks book quickly so please book early. 2. ensure ThAT you reAd And undersTAnd our Booking CondiTions: By paying your deposit you acknowledge that you have read and understood our Terms and Conditions of Booking on page two (2) of this Booking Form and you agree to be bound by these Booking Conditions. 3. ComPleTe This Booking Form And PAy APPliCABle dePosiT: A non-refundable deposit of $1000 per person is required or full payment if booking is within 65 days of your trek departure date. On receipt of your booking form and deposit your Confirmation Pack will be sent to you. The Pack contains all the information you need to prepare for your trek plus a Personal Details Booklet that must be completed and returned to us immediately. 4. TrAvel insurAnCe is ComPulsory and it is recommended that you arrange this at time of booking. Visit our website: www.backtrack.com.au/insurance.htm to arrange insurance online, or contact us for insurance information.5. This Booking Form musT be accompanied by a photocopy of the details page of your passort.Please complete All Fields in the form below to ensure accurate processing of your booking and deposit payment.

how to Book:

1984–2013

details Trekker 1 Trekker 2

Please reserve a place for me on

Departure date ex Paro: 04 / 10 / 2013 Departure date ex Paro: 04 / 10 / 2013

Please tick where appropriate

I require: n Flights from ________________(please supply quote) I require: n Flights from ________________(please supply quote)

n Additional land arrangements n Additional land arrangements

Full name (as per your passport)

Title Surname Title Surname

First Name(s) Middle Name(s) First Name(s) Middle Name(s)

Preferred Name Preferred Name

Sex M n F n Date of Birth Sex M n F n Date of Birth

Passport details (as per your passport)

Number Place of Issue Number Place of Issue

Date of Issue Expiry Date Date of Issue Expiry Date

Place of Birth

nationality

Postal Address

Suburb Suburb

City State P’code City State P’code

email (most often checked)

Telephone AH ( ) BH ( ) AH ( ) BH ( )

mobile

Preferred Contact

n Email n Phone - AH n Phone - BH n Phone - Mobile

n Email n Phone - AH n Phone - BH n Phone - Mobile

occupation

n I would like to subscribe to the Back Track Adventures Newsletter n I would like to subscribe to the Back Track Adventures Newsletter

dePosiT PAymenT deTAils - Payment of $1000 per person is required to secure your booking

Payment options

Please complete payment details as requested and return this form via fax, post or scanned email copy.

n Payment by Cheque. Please make all cheques payable to Back Track Adventures

n Payment by direct deposit Date paid ____ / ____ / 2013 Please allow 24hours for your payment to process into our bank account

Bank and Branch ANZ Bank, Fortitude Valley BSB 014 240 Account No. 3714 19046 Account Name Back Track Adventures Qld Swift Code (for overseas payments) AnZBAu3mPlease enter your Surname and/or Team number into the REFERENCE field when transferring your deposit payment

n Payment by Credit Card:

n Visa n Mastercard n American Express

Name on Card______________________________________________

Card No nnnn nnnn nnnn nnnn Card Expiry ____/____ Amount to be Charged $____________

Signature_________________________________________________Please note: credit card fees apply to deposit payments and all payments thereafter:

Visa/Mastercard > 1.2% American Express (AMEX) > 3.45%

Where to send your form and payment details

Phone 1300 669 780 Fax 07 3854 1079 email [email protected] Address PO Box 132 Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 Office 132 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Back Track Adventures | Bhutan 2013 | Page 1 of 2

Back Track Adventures (Travel agents Licence Numbers 177/178), ABN 23910991873, act as Travel Agents and Tour Operators contracting some services from other tour operators, Travel Agents, Airlines, Hotels and others, herein referred to as Service Providers.

1. geTTing sTArTed: A booking is made by completing the booking form and returning same with your deposit of $1000 per person to Back Track Adventures. A Confirmation Pack will be sent to you as soon as possible after receipt of your booking form and deposit. It is a condition of booking that you arrange comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover when you pay your deposit or within 7 days of receiving your Confirmation Pack. If travel insurance cover can not be obtained for a medical condition, or any reason, you must advise us immediately. PleAse noTe The dePosiT is sTriCTly non–reFundABle. Payment: Final balance is due 65 days prior to your departure from Australia. If you book less then 65 days prior to departure then full payment must be made at time of booking. If payment is not made by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking. Your deposit is non-refundable. Trip Price: The trip price is based on costs and exchange rates current at time of printing this brochure. We reserve the right to adjust prices before or after your booking. If we receive any increase in prices for services, these increases may be passed on even after final balance has been received. Airfares quoted by Back Track are subject to change by the airlines. Any airfare increases will be passed on. Flight taxes are subject to increase at any time.

2. CAnCellATion By you: If you cancel your trip, land and air cancellation fees apply. The fee is determined by the date that we receive written notification of your cancellation. Fees are as follows: Days before Departure: More than 65 days: loss of deposit, 65 days or less: 100% of total booking cost. Depending on your reason for cancelling, charges may be recoverable by you under your insurance policy. CAnCellATion By us: Our tour departures are subject to minimum numbers being obtained. We reserve the right to cancel the tour if minimum numbers are not achieved within 60 days of the scheduled departure date. We will advise anyone affected no later then 60 days prior to departure and in this case all monies paid to us by you will be refunded except any payment for travel insurance. No responsibility is taken by us for any costs incurred for goods or services purchased by you independently for this tour. These costs might include, but are not limited to, costs imposed by an airline on cancelled advance purchase airline tickets.

3. evACuATion: In the unlikely event that you are evacuated from the trek for any reason, all costs associated with the evacuation are your expense. Costs include, but are not limited to, evacuation costs by helicopter or fixed wing aircraft, medical expenses, doctors fees, additional accommodation and transport in Bhutan. From the moment you leave the trek itinerary, any meals, accommodation or services provided at the evacuation point are at your expense. No refunds are given for unused services.

4. ACCePTing inherenT dAngers: You understand and accept that your proposed tour may expose you to inherent dangers. This tour is physically and mentally challenging. Only people in good physical and mental condition should undertake this tour. You must check with your

Doctor and ensure that your health is sound and you are able to undertake a rigorous training programme as necessary. You must accept that you will be travelling through a remote area where outside assistance may be delayed or unavailable if an unforeseen event occurs. This may be due to medical, weather or political situations and may affect you or other members of the group or our trek crew. You must understand and accept that a medical emergency in this remote area may be life threatening and by completing this booking form you accept these potential adverse and unfavourable conditions and potential life threatening situations as your choice. You agree that Back Track Staff have answered, in a forthright manner, all questions you may have asked regarding all aspects of the Trek, in particular, questions regarding Health, Fitness, Physical and Mental challenges and risks.

5. liABiliTy releAse And resPonsiBiliTies: Back Track Adventures will always act with due care and skill. Where Back Track Adventures utilise Services Providers, Back Track Adventures are not responsible for the acts and omissions of these Service Providers, including tour guides, for any loss, damage or expense, including loss of money paid in advance which you may incur as a consequence of the acts, omissions and negligence of others. As soon as possible on receipt of your completed booking form and deposit, you will be sent with your Confirmation Pack, an ‘Indemnity & Release Form’, This must be read, understood, signed and returned in the envelope provided within 7 days of receipt.

6. your heAlTh And FiTness: We strongly recommend a visit to your doctor immediately to determine if you have any health issues that may prevent you from participating in this holiday. You must ask your doctor about current inoculation requirements. A ‘Medical Questionnaire and a Fitness Questionnaire’ will be sent to you with your Confirmation Pack which must be completed and returned within 7 days of receipt. On receipt of your completed Medical Questionnaire, some clients, in particular those with pre-existing medical conditions may be asked to obtain a clearance from their Doctor as to their ability to complete the trek. We reserve the right, at our discretion, to cancel any booking and refund any monies paid. During your tour you are under the authority of your tour leader who has authority to determine your suitability to continue with your tour.

7. minors: In general, minors (under 18 years) are not accepted on this trip. Acceptance of a minor on a trip is strictly at the discretion of Back Track Adventures. In most cases we are happy to accept minors. Please enquire.

8. use oF PhoTos: You agree that Back Track may use images of you taken during your trip without recourse to you and without compensation to you. The images will be for marketing and promotional purposes only and the selected medium will be at Back Track’s discretion.

Bhutan Booking Form 2013Terms and Conditions of Booking:By paying your deposit you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Terms and Conditions of Booking as outlined below and you agree to be bound by these Booking Conditions.

1984–2013

Back Track Adventures222A Barry Parade, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006PO Box 132, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006

Phone 07 3850 7655 | Fax 07 3854 1079email [email protected] www.backtrackadventures.com.au

ABN 23 910 991 873 | Licence Number 177/178 | Member AFTA, TCF, WTAAA

www.backtrackadventures.com.au Bhutan Assist line: 1300 669 780

Documents

Trek Bhutan with Back Track in 2013