Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Tour

Discover the magic and mystery of Kathmandu & immerse yourself in the fascination throughout the colourful array of bustling streets, rich historic heritage, exquisite temples and religious sites. Take an early morning meandering drive to delightful lakeside town of Pokhara. There a many must see places to discover, from the Gupteshower sacred Caves to the historical Memorial Museum dedicated to the famous Gurkha Warriors. Our journey continues to the wild and mysterious Chitwan National Park, a popular destination for visitors wanting to have a good experience of the region's wildlife, tranquillity and remoteness. Explore the jungle on elephant back and dugout canoe while observing the abundance of wildlife from the one horned rhinoceros to the Bengal tiger along with many species of birds, fish and butterflies.

After a breathtaking flight over the Himalayas we arrive at the incomparable “roof of the world”, Tibet. For culture lover's you'll witness displays of people so optimistic yet so proud of their religion and beliefs, remaining much the same as they did one hundred years ago. Visits to Potala Palace and Jokhang temple can be quite a spiritually rejuvenating experience. Potala Palace features an overwhelming array of intricate murals, temples, stupas and tombs of eight past Dalai Lamas, exquisite Tibetan Mandalas and other relics of Tibetan history.

Last but certainly not least we come to explore the unique and untouched wonders of Bhutan, which is cradled within the deep folds of the Himalayas, presenting proud and vibrant culture captivating many, snow-capped mountains, emerald green landscapes, fascinating wildlife and gentle hospitality of the Bhutanese people all await you. Bhutan is a unique and rare destination that few people have the privilege of visiting.

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Itinerary / Highlights

Day 01- Arrive at Kathmandu airport (1345meters).
There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 & 03- Guided sightseeing around Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan Durbar Square, Changunarayan Tample, Khokana and Bungmati Village, Swoyambhu Stupa, Pasupatinath and Buddha Stupa.
In the morning after breakfast at 9 AM on day 02, we host a Pre-Trip meeting at your hotel in Kathmandu and introduced your tour Guides mean time and it will provide an opportunity for individuals to ask questions about the your tour and to introduce you to other participants. This includes a final briefing and preparations for the trip.

PLEASE ADVISE US IF YOU WILL BE ARRIVING LATE AND ARE THEREFORE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE PRE-TRIP MEETING.

In THE PRE-TRIP MEETING All passengers MUST bring:
1. Passport.
2. Four copies of Passport size photos each.
3. Travel Insurance Policy.
4. A writing pen
5. Notepad.

After the Pre-Trip meeting and breakfast your sightseeing trip will start at 9.45 AM in the morning each day. We provide a private vehicle and professional tour guide. The places we visit are follow :

Bhaktapur Durbar Square (World Heritage Site)
As you walk in, you will feel a sense of inner harmony. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a collection of pagoda and shikhara & style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. The attraction of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square is The Lion gate, The Golden gate, The Palace of fifty five windows, Art Galleries, The Statue of King Bhupatindra Malla.

Patan Durbar Square (World Heritage Site)
Like its counterpart in Kathmandu, is an enchanting combination of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. The former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone.

Changu Narayan Temple (World Heritage Site)
Situated on a ridge overlooking the Valley, about 12 km to the east of Kathmandu. It is dedicated to the Hindu god Bishnu. One of the finest and oldest specimens of pagoda architecture built in 323 AD by King Hari Dutta Varma. The temple is richly decorated with sculptures and carvings, and its position above the Kathmandu Valley affords a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside.

Khokana and Bungmati Village
Founded in the 7th century, Bungmati is home to one of the most important Gods of the Kathmandu Valley known as Matchyendranath, the God of Rain and compassion, worshipped equally by Hindus and Buddhists, and accredited by local people with the introduction of rice plantations in the valley. The rich heritage and relatively unchanging lifestyle of the Newar people is clear to see both in Bungamati and in the nearby village of Khokana, which we also visit. On the southern edge of the Kathmandu valley, the mighty Lichchhavi rulers of Nepal and remain relatively isolated from modern Nepali life.

Buddhanath Stupa (World Heritage Site)
Lies about six km to the east of downtown Kathmandu and is the largest stupa in the Valley. It looms 36 meters high and presents one of the most fascinating specimens of stupa design. Buddhanath is also known as Khasti, or dew drops, after an account that builders had to use dew to mix the mortar as Kathmandu was suffering from a severe drought during its construction.

Swoyambhu Stupa- A Monkey Temple (World Heritage Site)
Watches over the Valley from the top of a hillock on its western side. The huge stupa is one of the holiest Buddhists sites in Nepal and its establishment is linked to the creation of the Kathmandu Valley out of a primordial lake. Swayambhu is also known as Samhengu and Monkey temple.

Pashupatinath Temple (World Heritage Site)
Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world; lies five km east of the city center. The richly-ornamented pagoda houses the sacred Linga, or phallic symbol, of Lord Shiva. Chronicles indicate the temple's existence prior to 400 AD. Devotees can be seen taking ritual dips in the holy Bagmati River flowing beside the temple.

Kathmandu Durbar Square (World Heritage Site)
This complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. An intriguing piece here is the 17th- century stone inscription set into the wall of the palace with writings in 15 languages. The Durbar Square is the social, religious and urban focal point of the city. There are also three museums inside the palace building.

Day 04- Drive to Pokhara (900 meters) 7 hours by tourist bus.
Tour staff will arrive at your Hotel at 6:30 am in the morning to pick you up then the bus will leave around 7.30 am to Pokhara. Pokhara is a beautiful valley, with panoramic views of Annapurna, Machapuchare (shape of fish tail) in the north, Dhaulagiri in the west, Lamjung Himal and Manaslu in the east. The town of Pokhara is set on the banks of the Phewa Lake. It is smaller and much less hectic than Kathmandu providing the perfect starting point for our trek. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05 & 06- Guided sightseeing tour in and around Pokhara.
Your sightseeing trip will start at 9 AM in the morning after breakfast. We provide a private vehicle and professional tour guide; the places we visit are as below:

Phewa Lake & Barahi Temple
Situated at an altitude of 800meters above sea level, it is the second largest lake in the kingdom. With Barahi island Temple in the middle of the lake it is the most important religious monument in Pokhara. Built almost in the middle of Phewa Lake, this two-storied pagoda is dedicated to the boar manifestation of Ajima, the protector's deity representing the female force Shakti. The reflection of Mt. Machhapuchhare & Annapurna can be seen in its serene water. Thick forest lies on the adjoining southern slopes of the lake.

Begnas & Rupa Lake
Lies in the north-east of the Pokhara valley at the distance of 13kms from the main city of Pokhara. These lakes are located at the foothill of Begnas, mountain and are separated by the Pachabiya hill.

Seti River Gorges
Carved by Seti-Gandaki is one of the natural wonders of Pokhara. K.I. Singh bridge at Bagar, Mahendrapool & Prithivi highway Bridge near bus park, provides a perfect view of the river's dreadful rush and the deep gorge made by the turbulent flow of white water.

Devi's fall
Locally known Patale Chhango in the southern flank of the Pokhara valley is where the stream flowing from Fewa lake collapses and surges down the rock into a deep gorge, leaping through several potholes.
Mahendra cave
Lies at the north of the Pokhara valley. It is a large limestone cave which is one of the few stalagmites stalactite caves found in Nepal.

Gupteswar Cave
Gupteswar Cave is a sacred cave, lies 2 km from Pokhara airport. The entrance is right across from Devi's fall and the cave is almost 3 km long. It has some big hall-size rooms and some passages where you have to crawl on all fours. This cave holds special value for Hindus since a phallic symbol of Lord Shiva is preserved here in the condition it was discovered.

Tibetan Refugee Camps
Tibetan Village Tashiling in the south and Tashii Palkhel in the north of Pokhara valley is the two Tibetan villages which is inhabitant by the Tibetan people who keeps themselves busy by producing and trading woolen carpets and other handicrafts.

Museums
We will visit two different museums, one museum displays the life styles and history of the Gurungs, Thakalis and Tharu and another one is Gurkha Memorial Museum dedicated to the famous Gurkha Warriors who earned their name during many fierce battles fought during the World Wars and numerous operations around the world since 1815. They won 13 Victoria Cross medals awarded for exceptional bravery shown in the field.

Bindhyabasini Temple
Lies in the center of religious old bazaar. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati, yet another manifestation of Shakti. The park like grounds offer a fine picnic area.

Day 07- Drive to Sarankot for sunrise and Mountain Views, then continue onto Chitwan National Park.
Early in the morning about 45 minutes drive with 25 minutes hike take us to the top of Sarankot to see best sunrise & close views of many mountains like Annapurna range, Dhauligiri, Fishtail including views of the beautiful Pokhara valley & fewa lake. After we have some breakfast at Sarankot its a 15 minutes walk down and 45 minutes drive take to the hotel in Pokhara. From there we continue our drive to Chitwan National Park. On reaching the resort in the National Park, our Guest Relations Officer will brief guests after which you will be participating in an Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk / Nature Walk with Boat Ride and dinner will be ready about 8:00 pm.Overnight at hotel.

Day 08 & 09- Activities in Chitwan National Park.
An early morning wakeup call followed by tea/coffee. The early morning tour provides you one of the best times to see the wildlife at its best with Bird Watching / Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk.

After breakfast a 45 minute walk through grassland and forest upstream of the Narayani River. Climb aboard the local boats to observe crocodiles along the banks while floating back to the camp to enjoy lunch. Late afternoon a guide will take you for Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk / Visit Observation Tower / Nature Walk with Boat Ride, back to the camp and have dinner. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10- Activities and drive back to Kathmandu.
An early morning wakeup call followed by tea/coffee. Again your guide will take you for a Bird Watching / Elephant Safari / Jungle Walk followed by breakfast with your departure back to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 - Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (3660m).
You will be met at Gonggar Airport by your Tibetan guide. After immigration formalities take a 1.5-hour drive along 93 km road leading to Lhasa lying at an altitude of 3660 meters. It's advisable to rest and take it easy for the remainder of the day due to Lhasa's altitude. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12 - Guided city tours in Lhasa, place we visit are Sera Monastery, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street.
Once you relinquish your delicious breakfast, you straightaway make arrangements for your sightseeing tour. Your experienced guide accompanies you to the famous monasteries of Tibet. On your awe-inspiring visit to Sera Monastery, you are introduced to the important aspects of Buddhism. After lunch, you once again continue exploring Tibetan ancient cultures and civilizations as you pay a visit to Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Jokhang temple provides yet another exciting and educative tour. Wandering around Barkhor Markets is another major highlight of the day. Finally, you head back to your hotel for relaxation and refreshments. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13 - Guided City tour around Potala Palace and Drepung Monastery.
Today you get more acquainted with the mystiques of Lhasa. In the morning after breakfast, you will set off to view majestic Potala Palace towering above city of Lhasa. You get to witness unique, pristine and overwhelming array of intricate Tibetan murals, temples, stupas, and tombs of eight past Dalai Lamas from a perfect vantage point. Ancient Tibetan cultures come alive with your every exploration. Later in the noon after lunch, you will visit beautifully landscaped Drepung Monastery. You can observe nuns and monks chanting and performing religious discourses. After this religious journey, you eventually return to your hotel for delicious dinner and well-eared peaceful sleep. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14 - Fly to Kathmandu from Lhasa.
Transfer to Gongar Airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel. If you are interested in continuing onto Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure, Kathmandu Shopping Tour or Scenic Everest Flight.

Day 15- Spare day in Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.

Day 16- Fly from Kathmandu to Paro with Scenic 90 min drive to Thimphu.
You will be met by our Bhutan Airport Representative on arrival after all the formalities we take a 90 min drive to the Bhutan's capital Thimphu and transferred to your hotel for you to settle in. Overnight at hotel.

Day 17- Sightseeing in and around Thimphu.
Sightseeing in and around Thimphu valley we visit the National Library, which holds a collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, as well as the institute for Zorig Chusum commonly known as Painting School, textile and Folk Heritage Museum which provides an insight into Bhutanese material culture and everyday way of life. Also visiting the National Memorial Chorten, Trashichho dzong an impressive monastery, Bhutanese Handicrafts displaying a wide range of beautifully hand-woven textiles and craft products. In the evening we explore the vibrant Thimphu Bazaar. Overnight at hotel.

Day 18- Drive from Thimphu to Punakha for a day's sightseeing.
Leaving Thimphu we drive about 3 hours, with the road climbing steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass (3,050 m). This pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges on a clear day. You will see Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Junipers and pine forests with chirping sounds of the many rare species of birds found in Bhutan. We drive onto Lobesa to take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, it is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility. Driving North to the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 which strategically occupies the land between the two rivers Phochu and Mochu. After our day of sightseeing we head back to Thimphu. Overnight at hotel.

Day 19- Leaving Thimphu we head back to Paro with sightseeing along the way.
An early morning drive towards Paro we stop to visit the Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum and visit Paro's Rimpung Dzong, along the way down we cross the 16th century cantilever bridge. Also visiting the Drugyel Dzong victory fortress, built in 1647 which is 18 kilometers from the Paro town. Explore the magnificent ramparts of the erstwhile fortress which defended the country against several incursions. On a clear day one can also view the sacred Mount Jomolhari, from the northern battlements. We take a visit to a farm house and observe the traditional Bhutanese way of life & living. Overnight at hotel.

Day 20- Excursion to Taktsang Monastery (The Tigers Nest).
The trail to the tigers nest climbs through beautiful Pine and rhododendron forests. You stop at the cafeteria which offers magnificent up close views of the tigers nest for refreshments. Then we continue the hike for short while until you see Taktsang monastery. Built in 1600s, this incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. History states that Guru Padmasambhava, the Tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tiger and meditated here for three months. Overnight at hotel.

Day 21 - Transfer to international airport for your final departure.
After breakfast our Airport Representative will drop you to the Paro International Airport for your flight departure from Bhutan.

NOTE: The above information is a guide and standard template of what we provide. The tour can be customized at your request to accommodate your specific requirements.

Weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

Other Details

Accommodation Details

Deluxe Three/Four star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and in Bhutan ( 17 nights twin sharing rooms including breakfast and hot drinks).

Basic hotel accommodation during the Tibet tour. (3 nights twin sharing room including breakfast and hot drinks)

All your Meals while in Bhutan Tour.
All hot drinks such as tea, coffee while in Bhutan tour