Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan – Himalayas kingdoms 14 days.
Price per person from: $ 3 950 :-
Experience the kingdoms of the Himalayas. Our journey starts in Nepal where we visit the capital Kathmandu and look at one of the biggest stupors in the country. We also visit the village of Nagarkot known as the city of cultural. We move on to Dalai Lamas holy Tibet and the city of Lhasa where we visit monasteries and learn about ancient traditions. In Bhutan we visit the city of Thimpu and the famous monastery Tigers nest which lies on the edge of a rock about Paro. The journey ends as we come back to Nepal.
This is included:
Local flights: Kathmandu – Lhasa – Kathmandu/ Kathmandu – Paro Kathmandu.
13 nights in standard double room on bed and breakfast basis.
Transportation in airconditioned vehicle.
English speaking guides.
Entrance to all sighs.
Tibet Travel permits.
Excursions as per below program.
Meals as per below program.
02 bottle of drinking water per person per day in vehicle.
Emergency portable oxygen cylinder in the vehicle during Tibet Tour.
In Bhutan: Govt. Royalty, Visa and Tourism Fee, All permits, All Taxes for Bhutan only.
All Applicable Taxes and Service Charges.
Travel guarantee via Swedish Kammarkollegiet.
Day to day presentation:
(B= Breakfast, L= Lunch, D= Dinner)
Day 1: Arrival to Kathmandu.
You will arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Following customs, immigration formalities & baggage collection, assistance of our representative at the airport terminal, welcome with Khada (Tibetan silk scarf) in front of the arrival hall. As soon you reach the hotel welcome drinks will be served. In the meantime our assistant will help you to check in and briefed about the program. He will also collect the return flight tickets for reconfirmation. ** Official Hotel Check in Time is 14:00 Hrs. After short rest or after arrival proceed to half day sightseeing of Pashupati and Boudhanath.
Pashupati: Located on the banks of Bagmati River is the sacred Pashupati Temple. Pashupati is a manifestation of Shiva and means ‘The Lord of Animal’. This temple has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The temple premise consists of temples, ashrams, idols, and inscription added over centuries. The temple is the ultimate destination for devotees during the Maha Shivaratri Festival, where a crowd of thousands gathers to pay homage to Lord Shiva. The main temple within the complex is of pagoda shape with golden roof and silver doors on all the four sides of the temple. Inside the temple is a Shiva linga with four faces of Shiva, with four different names and significance. Pashupati area is regarded as one of the most important places of pilgrimages for Hindus. Thousands of devotees from all around the world come to Pashupatinath every day. The temple is barred to non-Hindus, but one can get a good view of the temple from the opposite bank of the river. Every evening aarti (light offering) to Lord Shiva is performed which can be observed from across the river. The view of Arya Ghat (cremation ground only for Hindu) is also possible from the spot.
Boudhanath: On the outskirt of Kathmandu lies one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. This ancient stupa of Boudhanath, on top of a massive mandala, probably is one of the largest in the world. There are over 50 monasteries around it and it was included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. It is built on the ages old trade route from Tibet to enter the Kathmandu Valley. Under the wise eyes of Buddha gazing out from the gilded central tower seems to be watching over thousands of pilgrims gather daily to make a kora (ritual circumnavigation) of the dome. In the evening the whole place lights up with butter lamps and the wafting smell of sage gives a calming effect. The stupa is surrounded by building and monasteries.
The plaza surrounding the stupa is open for people of all religion. Tibetan monks, elderly, along with other devotees can be seen spinning prayer wheels, chanting mantras, or just strolling in silence around the monument. The Stupa was damaged during the earthquake but has already been reconstructed and open for tourists from November 2016. (L,M)
Day 2: Kathmandu.
Breakfast at hotel. Full day sightseeing of Kathmandu City and Swyambhunath Stupa.
Kathmandu Durbar Square: Durbar, which means palace, is where the kings were once crowned and where they ruled from. Kathmandu has its Durbar Square at its heart; here charm of old town blends well with traditional architecture in a rich cultural backdrop. The entire square was designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The massive complex consists of three main squares, which is home to palaces, temples, and courtyard. South of Basantapur square is a former Royal elephant stable, which today has souvenir stalls and leads to Freak Street (the lane still lives in the former glory of being the ultimate Hippie destination during the Flower Power era). The temple of Living Goddess, Kumari, is also on the southern end. Kumari is a young Shakya girl from Newar community, chosen through an ancient and mystical selection to become the human incarnation of Hindu Goddess, Taleju. If you are lucky, you might get to get a glimpse of Kumari peaking out of an elaborately carved wooden window. The main Durbar Square is the most affected area by the 2015 earthquake. Three main temples of the area, Kasthamandap, Narayan temple, Trilokya Mohan, and Krishna Temple has been completely destroyed, while other have been partially damaged. On the Northeast side, the square consists of Hanuman Dhoka, the main entrance to the old royal palace. The Taleju Bhawani’s temple, the oldest of all the temples is situated in this area. Even though the old royal palace has been partially damaged, restoration process is going on. The Square is slowly making progress to yet again revive its old mystic and glory of being a living museum with finest traditional architectures in the world.
Lunch at Local Restaurant
Swyambhunath: Perched on top of a conical hill is a white dome with glittering golden spire is visible from all sides of the valley for many miles. This most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu Valley, Swayambhunath Stupa, is also known as the Monkey Temple. According to the historical records, the stupa is over 2,500 years old. The name of Swoyambhunath has been derived from Sanskrit word, Swayam (self), making Swoyambhunath the ‘Self-Created One’. The surrounding of the stupa consists a variety of shrines and temples, some dating back to the Licchavi period. The stupa has Buddha’s eyes and eyebrows painted on each side and nose is made out as the number one in Devanagari script. The main stupa can be reached from two access points; a long steep stairway with 365 steps (leading directly to the main platform), and a car road leading to a longer way from the southwest entrance. This stupa too has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Sites list. This place offers an excellent view of the Valley. Though the temples around the stupa had some minor destruction and one of the temples beside the stupa collapsed during the 2016 earthquake, the process of reconstruction is ongoing (B,L,D)
Day 3: Kathmandu – Nagarkot.
After breakfast, drive to Nagarkot. En – route Bhaktapur Sightseeing which is approximately 32 kilometres from Kathmandu and takes 1.5 hrs – 2 hrs drive.
Bhaktapur: Name of Bhaktapur literally translates to ‘City of devotees’. The best preserved of the three main medieval cities of the valley, Bhaktapur comprise some of the most breathtaking religious architecture in the entire country. It has three major squares, Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square, and Dattatreya Square; studded with pagoda and shikhara-style temples. Devoid of traffic and pollution, Bhaktapur by far is definitely the cleanest city in the Valley. Narrow stone paved streets snake through red brick houses, leading you to hidden temples, water sprouts, and courtyards. The city proudly displays its cultural life through daily lifestyle; artisans have been continuing traditional works like weaving, pottery, and wooden work for generation and you can catch skillful people busy with their work on the roadsides. Locals gather in the communal courtyard to bathe, collect water, do their laundry, and some to just socialise. Bhaktapur is known for its cultural handicrafts such as pottery, puppets, and masks, it is the perfect place to shop if you want light and easy-to-carry souvenirs. Main attractions of this city are 55 Window Palace, Golden Gate, Lion’s Gate, Mini Pashupati Temple, Nyatapola Temple, and Bhairav Nath Temple, among others. The reconstruction of ASI Dega and Batsala Temple which were completely destroyed by the earthquake is going on. When you get tired of the walk around this mesmerising city, enjoy the delicious Juju Dhau ‘King’s curd’ for some needed refreshment.
Lunch at Local Restaurant
And continue drive to Nagarkot.
Nagarkot: Nestled next to the traditional and old town of Bhaktapur, Nagarkot is the perfect blend of scenic beauty and fresh air greenery. The village has various hotels dotted on a ridge facing one of the broadest possible views of the Himalayan range. The morning wakes you up with warm glow of orange sunrise spreading from the peek into the skies. The glistering range of Himalaya spreads across the horizon making it the perfect view to begin the day. The luscious hill rolls down to the Valley joining it with the capital city which is just a drive away. The sunrise viewpoints give a perfect view of the Himalaya and the Valley below on a clear day. Favourite getaway for locals and foreigners alike, Nagarkot is melange of culture, tradition, and nature.
Upon arrival check in to hotel in Nagarkot. After some rest, explore Nagarkot and surroundings (B,L,D)
Day 4: Nagarkot – Kathmandu.
After breakfast walk to Nagarkot view tower. The Nagarkot View Tower is a magnet for nature lovers who reach there to capture the scenes of rising sun in the morning and when it is setting in the evening. Be it the majestic view of the rows of snowcapped mountains or the bird’s eye view of the Kathmandu Valley seen from the View Tower located at the highest point of Nagarkot, tourists adore the views. The tower is located at an altitude of 2100 meter and offers a panoramic view of Kathmandu valley as well as most parts of Kavre and Sindhupalchok.
After taking pictures and enjoying the view tower walk back to hotel for lunch. Approx.: 2/3 hrs. Walk . After lunch proceed to visit Changunarayan temple.
Changu Narayan: Built is the 4th century by Lichhavi Dynasty, Changu Narayan stands majestically over the rice fields of Bhaktapur. Listed as one of the UNESCO Heritage sites, this temple is double-roofed with stone lions guarding all the four doors. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Narayan, the idol with ten heads and ten arms is a fine example of stone carving from the 5th century. It offers to see you different types of sculptors and carvings of stones, wood, and metals inside the temple premise. The temple that was reconstructed in 1702 after a major fire suffered major damage during the earthquake in 2015. A sattal (shelter house) within the compound was completely destroyed and the ‘living traditional museum’ collapsed in the quake. While the stricter of the temple has been given support with the help of lumbers, the reconstruction process has begun.
Drive back to hotel in Kathmandu. Upon arrival check in to hotel in Kathmandu. Rest Day Free at Leisure. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Kathmandu – Lhasa.
Breakfast at Hotel and Transfer to Airport to connect your flight to Lhasa. You will be met at Gongkar Airport by your Tibetan guide. After immigration formalities you will be driven to Lhasa (3660 meters). It takes around 45 minutes to reach the old city. After checking in at your hotel, you are advised to take rest and take it easy. Drink plenty of fluids and let your body get used to Lhasa’s high altitude. You can go around the hotel area for light walk and sightseeing. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Lhasa.
After Breakfast proceed to full day sightseeing of Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Bhakhor Market.
Potala Palace: Also known as the “winter palace”. The imposing structure of the palace dominates the landscape of Lhasa. is a 13th storied complex monument rising to a height of above 117m which houses 10,000 shrines and over 200,000 images and about 1000 rooms.As you are guided through the ancient chambers of the palace, you get to see Tibetan art at its best. The Potala Palace has a vast array of intricate Tibetan murals and beautiful statues. You will also get to view the tombs of the eight Dalai Lamas.
Jokhang Temple: Jokhang a seventh-century geomantic temple at the heart of Lhasa is the most sacred temple of all Tibet. It is considered to be a Power Place in all Tibet. Queen Bhrikuti, a Nepalese princess married to King Songtsen Gampo founded Jokhang Temple and in recognition of Queen Bhrikuti the main gate of the temple faces west towards Nepal. The most impressive structure of the Jokhang Temple is the many chapels surrounding the temple.
Barkhor Market (Bazar): The most popular Barkhor Market (Bazaar) is a square where Tibetan handicraft items, Buddhist artifacts, carpets, paintings etc. are all in sale for your delight. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Lhasa.
After Breakfast proceed to sightseeing tour of Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery.
Sera Monastery: It is built on the slope of the Tatipu Mountain. It was named “Sera” due to the fact that lots of roses were once found on the mountains. “Sera” in Tibetan Language means “rose”. It has an assembly hall, three colleges. Sera are most famous for lamas debating activity each afternoon from 3:00 pm. The Sera Monastery is dedicated to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat Sect, a branch of Tibetan Buddhism, founded by Tsong Khapa. Jamchen Chojey, one of Tsong Khapa’s disciples built the monastery in 1419 during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The Gelugpa or Yellow Hat Sect of Tibetan Buddhism studies Buddhist doctrines by using a slow but systemic process. As a part of their study, lamas must take part in debates to further their learning and get to more advanced levels of study. The debating traditions in the Sera Monastery are unique among the three famous monasteries in Lhasa. Debates are practiced by the lamas in the monastery every day from 3 a.m. In a battle of words, they further their efforts by using a variety of gestures including clapping their hands, pushing their partners for an answer and more gestures
Drepung Monastery: Located 5 km on the slope of Mt. Ganpoi Utse in the northwest of Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery was built in 1416, which belongs to be the biggest monastery among the six monasteries of the Geluk sect. It covers an area of 25000 sq. km. in which once lived 10,000 monks. The Fifth Dalai Lama lived here before he moved to potala palace. The monastery has a large collection of historical relics and Buddhist scriptures. The Shoton (Yogurt festival) held in the monastery, which is one of the biggest religious activities in Tibet. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Lhasa – Kathmandu.
After Breakfast, transfer to airport for fly back to Kathmandu. Lunch at Local Restaurant. Arrival and proceed to visit Kirtipur and Chovar.
Kirtipur: Most significant and historical village, Chobar is where Manjushree (the divine being) cut the gorge called the Chobar gorge, to drain away the water from the lake nestled in the valley, making it a liveable place. The river can be crossed via an iron suspension bridge manufactured more than hundred years ago in Scotland. By the Bagmati river, below the bridge is the Temple of Jal Vinayak (Water Ganesh). The other main attraction of the village is the famous Adinath Lokeshwor temple, on which devotees have nailed metal plates and bowls to its walls to thank the deity for prayers answered.
Chovar: Just 4 miles away from Chobar is the beautiful Kirtipur city. The ancient city of Kirtipur is a natural fortress and has very rich culture and history. The major attractions of the city are the Chilancho Stupa, Bagh Bhairav temple, and Uma Maheshwar temple. Besides temples and stupas, the city is full of traditional Nepalese houses and temple squares. The small town is on two hills, saddled between hills, Kirtipur, Khokana, and Bungamati are among few villages and cities that are closest to the hill and away from the maddening crowd, pollution, traffic of the capital city. At the bottom of the two hills is the three-tiered Bagh Bhairab Temple with the ferocious deity Bhairab in the form of a Tiger. The Chilancho Vihar on top of the southern hill is visited by Buddhist and Hindu devotees alike. On a clear day, you can see the whole Valley spread out below, the Snow Mountains beyond and even Mt Everest if the skies stay blue. Like Panauti, Kirtipur too is considered to be earthquake resistance. Though the 2015 earthquake had some damages done to the village, there wasn’t much casualties and destruction. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Kathmandu – Paro – Thimphu.
After breakfast, transfer to airport to board your flight to Paro. Your journey begins with the most spectacular mountain flight with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. You fly over the southern hills, known as ‘dwars’, or gateways into the Himalayas as they rise from the plains until they meet the great snow-capped peaks that rise up to the sky.
On arrival at Paro airport and after completion of airport formalities, you will be met by your representative (guide). Drive from Paro to Thimphu (65 Kms/ 1.5 Hrs. drive approx…), the modern capital town of Bhutan and an exciting blend of tradition and modernity. Rest of the day at leisure or you may want to take a stroll through this lively town.
In the evening, time permitting, visit the impressive Trashicho Dzong/fortress which houses the throne room of the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and the central monk body. If your visit falls on a working weekday, arrive in time to watch the hoisting of the National Flag and the March of the Guards. (Not included about 27 dollars p/p) (B,L)
Day 10: Thimphu.
Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.
Today’s visit will include:
Buddha Dordenma statue sitting on top of a hill overlooking Thimphu, The Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is one of the tallest in Asia (51.5 m). The site of Buddha Dordenma offers unobstructed views over the capital town. (Closes Daily Nov-Feb at 4pm & Mar-Oct at 5pm)
Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre: Weaving is predominantly a woman’s domain but this private weaving center is different as it is owned and run by Mr. Kesang (a man – which is very rare in Bhutan). He weaves, creates new and unique patterns, comes up with unusual color combinations and is very involved. The center frequently produces ceremonial textiles for Bhutanese royals, including the traditional outfit for King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema’s highly publicized October 2011 marriage. (Closing based on owner’s discretion, in such an event we will replace with another site)
Memorial Chorten, the building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”), and a monument dedicated to peace. During the mornings and evenings, it a bustling place where people of all ages circumambulate the chorten/stupa, pray and prostrate at the shrine, turn the big prayer wheels, offer butter lamps, bask in the sun as they socialize and mingle.(Closes Daily Nov-Feb at 4pm & Mar-Oct at 5pm)
Zorig Chosum, (also known as the painting school) offers a six year course in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. The students follow a comprehensive course that starts with drawing and progresses through painting, woodcarving, embroidery and statue-making. This is a great opportunity to interact and photograph the students while they practice their skills in the classroom. (Closed on Sat 1pm, Sun, Govt. Holidays, School Break Jul, Jan-Feb).
Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery, Popularly known as Zilukha Anim Dratshang, it is the only nunnery in the Capital. The nuns dedicate their lives to religion and provide social services to the local communities. They live within the premises of the temple in a close community (50-100 nuns) and like a family each one of them are assigned daily chores and responsibilities. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Thimphu – Paro.
After breakfast drive to Paro. Enroute stop at the Iron Chain Bridge built in the early 15th century by the great iron bridge builder and Poet – Yogi Thangtong Gyalpo (1385-1464), who also built Dungtse Lhakhang in Paro and many iron bridges throughout Bhutan and Tibet. The iron bridge was carried away by floods in 1969 and a traditional style bridge with the original iron chains was built in 2005. Continue to Paro.
This beautiful valley encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the country’s only airport, and the National Museum. Mt. Chomolhari (7,300m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley, its glacial waters plunging through deep gorges to form the Pa Chu (Paro River). The Paro valley is one of the kingdom’s most fertile, producing the bulk of Bhutan’s famous red rice from its terraced fields.
On arrival visit the National Museum. The museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps and a small natural history collection. (Closed on Govt. Holidays)
Then walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic as the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley. Walk down a paved stone path running alongside the imposing outer walls and across a traditional cantilever bridge adorned with colorful prayer flags. If you drive a little further down along the river, there is a good spot where you can capture all three sites – the Cantilever Bridge, Paro Dzong and the National Museum.
Later, visit to a Farmhouse to share a cup of traditional butter tea with the family.
Also visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country. The temple is one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demoness in the 7th century. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. Evening explore the quaint Paro town. (B,L,D)
Day 12: Tigers nest.
“Tiger’s Nest” monastery, most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, is spectacularly located on the side of a cliff 900m above the valley floor. It is said that in the 8th century Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress from eastern Bhutan to this place and meditated in a cave here for 3 months, hence its name, “Tiger’s Nest”. The principal temple of the present monastic complex dates from 1692. The main structure was severely damaged by fire in 1998, but after many years of painstaking restoration work, the complex has now been fully restored to its former glory. A pilgrimage to Taktsang is the dream of a lifetime for the devout.
Ponies (extra charges) are available to carry passengers from the base and up the mountain till an area called the second view point. The trail beyond this is not suitable for ponies as the path is narrow and the last portion of the trail has concrete stairs. From the second view point area, you will have to walk 30-60 min to the temple. While riding on the ponies, we advise you stay away from the edge of the cliff and stay on the non-cliff side of the trail. Ponies will not take passengers downhill; all guests will have to walk back down. (B,L,D)
Day 13: Paro – Kathmandu.
After breakfast transfer to airport to board flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival at Kathmandu transfer to hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. (B)
Day 14: Departure.
In time transfer to airport to board flight for onward destination. End of Tour. (B)
This is not included:
International flight. (Can be bought on your own or via us)
Local airport departure taxes.
Visa to Nepal and Tibet.
Tips.
All meals not mentioned in the program.
Expenses of personal nature, table drinks, mineral water, laundry, telephone calls, tips at restaurants, room porters etc.
Travel insurance -Very important to have one that covers travel on high altitude and eventual emergency extraction costs.
The prices are based upon the lowest booking class and season. Prices are calculated per person in shared double room.
We reserve ourselves against changes in currencies and increased flight taxes. The airline tickets have to be paid immediately following a booking.
