Magic Of Nepal & Bhutan!!
Embark on a transcendent journey weaving through the cultural tapestries of Nepal and Bhutan.
This itinerary promises a seamless fusion of majestic landscapes, rich heritage, and spiritual
exploration across these Himalayan gems.
Magic Of Nepal & Bhutan!!
Embark on a transcendent journey weaving through the cultural tapestries of Nepal and Bhutan. This itinerary promises a seamless fusion of majestic landscapes, rich heritage, and spiritual
exploration across these Himalayan gems.
Day 01: Arrival / Kathmandu
Arrival in Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our representative will meet outside the arrival terminal building and transfer to Radisson Hotel. Afternoon, proceed for the tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Ason Bazaar. Kathmandu Durbar Square: The Kathmandu Durbar Square is famous for its exquisite architecture and artistic embellishment. The complex of palaces, courtyards and temples, built in 1200 to 1768 A.D. used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu which epitomizes the religions and cultural life of the people. Ason Bazaar (Vegetable & Spice Market): Ason bazaar is the oldest shopping place in Kathmandu. The place has various shops where one can buy all kinds of goods, groceries, vegetables, spices, and other ingredients needed for worshiping Gods, and the ingredients needed for ritual works. The place holds the most number of shops and different customers and class people bringing warmly environment and friendly atmosphere. Ason is equally famed for its traditional and cultural lifestyle of the people. Evening, Welcome Dinner with Cultural Program at outside restaurant.
Overnight at Radisson (Deluxe Room) (D)
Day 02: Kathmandu / Pokhara (flight to Pokhara by Buddha Air (U4 607) at 0845)
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, transfer to airport to connect the flight to Pokhara by Buddha Air (U4 607) at 0845 hrs. Upon arrival, our representative will meet, assist and transfer to Temple Tree Resort. POKHARA: If Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal, Pokhara is its centre of adventure. An enchanting city nestled beneath the snow-crested Annapurna Massif in a tranquil valley. It is the starting point for many of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations. Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the fishtailed summit of Machhapuchhre (6,977m) rising behind it create an ambience of peace and magic. Afternoon, boating on Phewa Lake and Visit Peace Pagoda. A Peace Pagoda is a Buddhist stupa designed to provide a focus for people of all races and creeds, and to help unite them in their search for world peace. Most (though not all) have been built under the guidance of Nichidatsu Fujii (1885-1985), a Buddhist monk from Japan and founder of the Nipponzan-Myōhōji Buddhist Order. Fuji was greatly inspired by his meeting with Mahatma Gandhi in 1931 and decided to devote his life to promoting non-violence. In 1947, he began constructing Peace Pagodas as shrines to World peace.
Overnight at Temple Tree Resort (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 03: Pokhara / Sarankot / Pokhara
Early morning, excursion to Sarankot (to view the Himalayas close-up). Clearly however, the most stunning of Pokhara’s sights is the world famous views of the Himalayas, especially with the spectacular panorama of the Annapurna range which forms its backdrop. Stretching from east to west, the Annapurna massif includes Annapurna I to IV and Annapurna South. Although the highest among them is Annapurna I (8,091m), it is Machhapuchhre which dominates all others in this neighbourhood. Return to hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, tour of Pokhara city that includes the visits to Davis Fall, Seti Gorge, Bindhyabasi Temple, Old Bazaar, the Tibetan Refugee Camp etc.
Overnight at Temple Tree Resort (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 04: Pokhara / Kathmandu (flight to Kathmandu by Buddha Air (U4 608) at 0945 hrs.)
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, transfer to airport to port to connect the flight to Kathmandu by Buddha Air (U4 608) at 0945 hrs. Upon arrival at 0900 hrs, our representative will meet outside the arrival terminal building and transfer to Radisson hotel. After checking in at Hotel, proceed for the tour of Swoyambhunath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square. Swayambhunath : A top a green hillock west of Kathmandnu, stands the great stupa of Swayambhunath which is considered to be over 2500 years old. It marks the point where the legendary patriarch Manjushri discovered the lotus of the ancient valley lake. Constructed to specific rules each with a symbolic meaning, the stupa of Swayambhunath is a model of its kind. Patan Durbar Square: The Patan Durbar Square has been acclaimed as one of the finest urban streetscapes in the world. Most of the monuments seen today were built between the 16th – 18th centuries.The Patan Durbar Square has been acclaimed as one of the finest urban streetscapes in the world. It is known as the centre of fine arts and for the superb craftsmanship of its artisans. Essentially a Buddhist city, historic inscriptions establish Patan as an important town as it is said to have been founded by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century B.C., although no historical proof exists.
Overnight at Radisson (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 05: Kathmandu / Paro / Thimpu
Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast, transfer to airport to connect flight to Paro by Druk Air Or Bhutan Airlines. onward flight. Upon arrival, our Bhutan representative who will assist you in boarding your vehicle for transfer to Thimphu (2320Mts / 7656Fts, 65 Kms / 01½ to 02 Hrs), Thimphu is the capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style. Upon arrival in Thimphu, our representative will meet, assist and transfer to Hotel. After lunch, go for Thimphu sightseeing covering – Memorial Chorten – The Chorten was built in 1974 to honor the 3rd King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928–1972), is a prominent landmark in the city with its Golden Spires and Bells. In 2008, it underwent extensive renovation. It is popularly known as “the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan”. Tashichho Dzong (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) –Also known as “Fortress of the Glorious Religion” Trachichho Dzong, Thimphu was initially built in 1641 and later rebuilt in its present form by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in 1965. The Dzong houses, Main Secretariat Building which houses the Throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang (Monastery) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – This popular fortress-like temple perched on a ridge above central Thimphu regularly hums with pilgrim activity. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet. Parents traditionally come here to get auspicious names for their newborns or blessings for their young children from the protector deity Tamdrin (to the left in the grilled inner sanctum, next to Chenresig). Don’t leave without taking in the excellent view from the back Kora (Pilgrim path), with its lovely Black and Gold prayer wheels. Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Overnight at River View Resort Or City Hotel (B, L & D)
Day 06: Thimphu
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, visit Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point) – You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the Largest Statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley, new Drupthob Goemba / Zilukha Nunnery – Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichho Dzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital known as Zilukha Anim Dratsang, once belonged to the Drubthob (Realized one) Thang Thong Gyalpo often referred to as The King of the open field (In the early 15th century with his multiple talents he popularly became the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas). You may interact here with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism. National library (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays) – is a major scriptural repository and research facility dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich literary, cultural and religious heritage of Bhutan.
The scripture and document collection held in our library and archives is a national treasure and a fundamental source for Bhutanese History, Religion, Medicine, Arts and Culture. Indigenous hospital where traditional art of healing is still practiced, Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Art & Craft School) (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays & During Summer & Winter Vacations) – The art taught today in Bhutan was introduced by the Great Treasurer Discoverer Terton Pema Lingpa in the Fifteen century. These traditional Crafts represents hundreds of years of Knowledge and ability that has passed down the generation. Bhutan unique artistic traditions have played a vital role in mounding its distinct cultural heritage. This tradition is best reflected in the “Zorig Chusum” or Thirteen. Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel
Overnight at River View Resort Or City Hotel (B, L & D)
Day 07: Thimpu / Wangdi (Punakha)
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, drive to Punakha (1200Mts / 3936Fts, 77 Kms / 03 to 3½ Hrs) / Wangdi (Wangdiphodrang) (1350Mts / 4430Fts, 70 Kms / 03 to 3½ Hrs). Punakha / Wangdi is the last town on the highway before entering Central Bhutan. The drive is over Dochu La pass (3080Mts / 10102Fts) which is very scenic with fascinating view of mountains of Bhutan. Stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the Chorten, Mani wall, and Prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this Pass (Left to Right): Mt. Masagang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Tsendagang (6,960Mts / 22829Fts), Mt. Terigang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), Mt. Jejegangphugang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Kangphugang (7,170Mts / 23518Fts), Mt. Zongphugang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana – Finally Mt.Gangkar Puensum (7,497Mts / 24590Fts), the highest peak in Bhutan. Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Afternoon, Visit Punakha Dzong (Which is closed in Winter months when the monk body are in Punakha. All visits to Punakha Dzong & Monastery are limited till Courtyard only. All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – Built Strategically at the junction of Pho Chhu (Father) and Mo Chhu (Mother) rivers in 1637, by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played an important role in Bhutan’s history. Damaged by Four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by the present King. The Dzong is open for visitors during Punakha Festival and in summer months when the monk body moves to Thimphu. Chimi Lhakhang (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humor, songs and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings and due to this also known as Divine Madman. This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30 minute walk across field from the road to the temple. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning field. It then follows a tiny stream downhill to Yoaka and across more fields before making a short climb to Chimi Lhakhang.
Overnight at WangdiKichu Resort (B, L & D)
Day 08: Wangdi (Punakha) / Gangtey / Wangdi (Punakha)
Breakfast at Hotel. Today the day start early for full day excursion to Gangtey & Phobjikha Valley (3000Mts / 9845fts , 135Kms / 5 to 5½ Hrs One way ) The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast space, and extremely rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valley’s are tightly enclosed. A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lie’s the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. Phobjikha, at an altitude of 2900 m, falls under the district of Wangdiphodrang and lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white water). According to a local legend, the two rivers actually represent a snake and a boar. The two animals once raced each other with an agreement that if the snake (Nakay Chhu) won, Phobjikha valley would be able to grow rice, but if the boar won, then rice could never be cultivated in the area. The snake lost since it had to meander all the way during its journey. Rice cannot be cultivated in the valley even today. Black Necked Crane Information Centre (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays)- Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the black-necked crane information Centre has an observation room equipped with high power telescope and spotting scopes for catching the best view of the cranes. The centre also offers display information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area. There is a small gift shop, which sells handicrafts produced by the local people. Gangtey Goempa (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor, the Gangtey Monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain’s Gangtey valley, Bhutan and also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the Monastery. Gangtey was founded by Pema Trinley, the grandson of Pema Lingpa, the famous Nyingmapa saint of Bhutan. In 1613, Pema Trinley establishes the monastery and became the first Gangtey Tulku. The religious traditions of Pema Lingpa still taught there. The second Tulku, Tenzin Legpa Dondrup (1645 to 1726), enhanced the size of Gangtey while keeping up good relations with Drukpas, and rebuilt the monastery in the form of a Dzong. Later drive back to Wangdi (Punakha) Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Overnight at WangdiKichu Resort (B, L & D)
Day 09: Wangdi (Punakha) / Paro
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, drive 3 hours to Thimphu for lunch and proceed 2 hours to Paro via visiting the oldest building in Bhutan, the Simtokha Dzong. It now serves as a Buddhist university. The Simtokha Dzong is the oldest building in Bhutan that now serves as a Buddhist university. About 5 km south of Thimphu, on the ancient road to Paro and Phuentsholing, the elegant Simtokha Dzong was built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The site is said to mark the place where a demon disappeared into a rocky outcrop, hence the name Simtokha, from simmo (demon) and do (stone). The site was also a strategically vital location to protect the Thimphu Valley and the pass east to Dochu La and eastern Bhutan Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Overnight at Naksel Resort (B, L & D)
Day 10: Paro
After breakfast go for Paro Sightseeing Ta Dzong (National Museum) (After September 2011 Earth quake, Ta Dzong (Paro Museum) had been closed and shifted to exhibition hall just above the museum. Now the present exhibition hall will be open throughout the week except on Weekends & Government holidays. All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed). – One-time watch tower built to defend Rinpung Dozng during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, since 1967 Ta Dzong is serving as the National Museum of the country. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious Thankha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. The museum circular shape augments its varied collection displayed over several floors. Rinpung Dzong (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the First spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the office of the Dzongda (district administrative head) and Thrimpon (judge) of Paro district. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk through the bridge, over a stone inlaid path, offers a good view of the architectural wonder of the Dzong as well as life around it. It is also the venue of Paro Tshechu, held once a year in the spring. Walk further down crossing the traditional bridge into Paro Town. Later visit Kyichu Lhakhang (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom dating back to 7th century (the other is Jambey Lhakhang in Bumthang). The Lhakhang complex is composed of two temples. The first temple was built by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and in 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, built the second temple in original pattern, this is a popular monastery for wedding blessing among our travellers. Back to the hotel. Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Overnight at Naksel Resort (B, L & D)
Day 11: Paro / Full Day Hike To TaktsangLhakhang (Tiger`S Nest)
Start the day early for a day hike to Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) with packed or early breakfast – The hike which is all the way uphill takes about 2½ hrs to 3Hrs one way through pine forests. The monastery clings to a huge granite cliff 900 meters from the Paro valley. It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called Tiger’s Nest. This site has been recognized as a most sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour. Guest can also opt for Ponies on direct payment basis but for guest who are unable to make it to the top even reaching to the cafeteria area which in almost half way is very fulfilling. Back to the Paro hotel. Afternoon / Evening free Yoga session. Lunch at city Restaurant and Dinner at hotel.
Overnight at Naksel Resort (B, L & D)
Day 12: Paro / Kathmandu
Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast, transfer to airport to connect the flight to Kathmandu by Druk Air Or Bhutan Airlines. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will meet, assist and transfer to Radisson Hotel. After checking in at Hotel, proceed for the tour of Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Pashupatinath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva it is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the world. It lies 5 km. east of Kathmandu Valley on the bank of the sacred Bagmati River. Thousands of pilgrims visit this temple every year during Shivaratri, the birthday of Lord Shiva. Entrance to the temple precinct is forbidden to non-Hindus. The Large, gilded triple-roofed temple was built in 1696 A.D. though 300 years earlier this was a structure on this site. Boudhanath Stupa: This is the largest stupa in Nepal and one of the largest in the world located east of the valley. It was built by the Lichchhavi King Mana Dev in the 5th century A.D. The Rinpoches who reside here have established Boudhnath as one of the most flourishing centres of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. The colossal ancient stupa is 36 metres high.
Overnight at Radisson (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 13: Kathmandu
Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast, proceed for the tour of Bungmati Village, Khokana Village and Kirtipur. Bungmati: Bungmati is a medieval village lies about 6km south of Patan. It was founded during 7 th century. It is a home, one of the most important Gods of the Kathmandu Valley known as Machhindranath (Matsyendranath), the God of rain. It is worshipped equally by Hindus and Buddhists. Khokana: Khokana is just in 20-30 minutes walking distance from Bungamati another Newar village. The village begins with a narrow cobbled street and in the middle of the main street lies the temple of Shekali Mai a local mother Goddess. The farmers in Khokana produce mustard oil through 1000 years old method. Most of the people are from ethnic Newar community in these villages with their typical Newar houses. The villagers are involved mostly either in farming, or spinning wool yarn. Kirtipur: Kirtipur is an ancient city of Nepal. It is located 5 km southwest of Kathmandu. The name Kirtipur comes from the Sanskrit terms Kirti (glory) and pur (city). The colloquial term used for the city is Kipoo. Kirtipur’s history dates from 1099 A.D. It was part of the territory of Lalitpur at the time of the invasion of the Kathmandu Valley by the Gorkhali king Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century. In 1767, Prithvi Narayan Shah attacked Kirtipur and annexed it to the Gorkhali kingdom. He conquered the town on his third attempt. During this war he had lost many brave commanders.
Overnight at Radisson (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 14: Kathmandu
Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast, proceed for the tour of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Dhulikhel and Panauti Village. Bhaktapur Durbar Square: A former capital of the valley, it was once a flourishing city on the trade route to Tibet. It has preserved its traditional character better than the other two cities, due to its more isolated location. It is regarded today as a classic showcase of medieval Nepalese town life. It is situated in the east of Kathmandu valley about 14 km. away. It today retains much of its beauty in ornate woodcarvings and in the famed Golden Gate. Dhulikhel: This is a city of Newar located 30 km. 80 southeast of Kathmandu next to the Araniko road that leads to the Tibetan border. It was once the capital of a fourteenth-century kingdom that boasted diplomatic relations with the Ming emperors of China. It was also an important trading post for Tibet and China. Dhulikhel is popular for its natural beauty and ancient tradition. The Himalayan ranges from Karyolung in the east to Himalchuli in the west can be clearly seen. Panauti: Panauti is the beautiful town (the oldest towns in Nepal) is located 32 km, southwest of Kathmandu. It is surrounded by lush green hills rich in wide variety of flowers and fauna. The forest around Panauti homes the rich number of birds and animals. Panauti is quaint and interesting destination of Nepal. It feels as if has been left exactly the way the founders had built the town. A nostalgic atmosphere covers the narrow town streets and ancient structures.
Overnight at Radisson (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 15: Kathmandu / Departure
Breakfast at hotel. Late check – out and transfer to airport to connect onward flight.
No Hotel Quoted For This Day
END OF SERVICES
We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and
hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India ‘Please come back soon” Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
Cost Includes:
– Accommodation on Twin Sharing Basis
– Meals as per the itinerary only (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch & D – Dinner)
Nepal Portion
– Day Use (Late Check-Out) till 6 PM at Radisson.
– Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu sector.
– Airport-hotel-airport transfer by AC MUV (Creta/Tucson/Breeza Jeep) with
escort.
– City tours by by AC MUV (Creta/Tucson/Breeza Jeep) with local English-
Speaking Guide in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
– Boating on Phewa Lake.
– Monument Entrance Fees.
– One Nepali Dinner at outside restaurant.
– Applicable Govt. Taxes.
Bhutan Portion
– Airport-hotel-airport transfers by Non AC SUV / VAN
– Sightseeing tours with English speaking guide by Non AC SUV / VAN.
– Monument Entrance Fees
– Visa fee
– Tourism Development Fund.
– Royalty and SDF
– Applicable govt. taxes.
Cost Does Not Includes:
– Camera & video fee to monuments
– Meals other than as mentioned above
– Expenses of personal nature such as laundry, drinks, tips, telephone calls etc
– Services not mentioned.
– Credit card transaction fees.