Itinerary Summary

Day	Place	Highlights	Hotel Options
1 - 4	Kathmandu	Kathmandu Valley, 7 World Heritage Sites, Buddhist Temples, Amazing Architecture	Tibet International Hotel, Dwarikas
4 - 8	Lhasa	Ancient traditions & Modern city life, Potala Palace, Monasteries & Temples, Markets & Culture	Yabshi Phunkhang, Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa
8 - 10	Dhulikhel	Himalayan Range, Temples, Local Handicrafts, Intriguing Culture	Dhulikhel Mountain Resort, Dwarika's Resort
10 - 12	Paro	Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Dzong, National Museum, Scenic Valley Treks	Raven's Nest, COMO Uma Paro
12 - 14	Punakha	Punakha Valley, Dzong, Temple of Fertility, Rice Fields	Khuru Resort, COMO Uma Punakha
14 - 17	Thimphu	Dzong and Chorten, Handicrafts Emporium, Archery	Druk Hotel, Taj Tashi
17 - 18	Kathmandu	Kathmandu Valley, 7 World Heritage Sites, Buddhist Temples, Amazing Architecture	Kantipur Temple house, Dwarikas

Itinerary Details

Day 1 - 4

International Arrival

Transfer from Kathmandu Airport to Hotel

Kathmandu

3 Nights

Kathmandu is a Himalayan valley kingdom, cradled within the foothills of mighty peaks. The city is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites and several other attractions, such a carved rose-brick pilgrimage sites, artistic workshops, and cafes and courtyards brimming with friendly local families.

Included Activities

Durbar Square & Thamel Visit by Rickshaw
Explore Durbar Square, a durbar (court) of royalty, history and arts! Explore the house of the living goddess, or learn about the home of a red monkey god at Kal Bhairam Temple, decorated with its hundreds of erotic wood carvings. Kathmandu’s charm is best seen with an evening rickshaw ride that features silhouetted temples as the sun goes down. Embrace the colorful buzzing bazaars and market squares of Thamel that you can further explore by foot and venture into the lively nightlife.

Discover the Heritage Haunts of Kathmandu
Discover the deeply spiritual heart of Nepal on this day tour of the key Hindu and Buddhist temples in Kathmandu. Begin your tour at Pashupatinath, an immensely revered pilgrimage site built in the design of a Buddhist pagoda. At the Swayambhunath Temple, its your turn to spin the sacred prayer wheels that encircle its huge circular base, each embossed with Buddhist mantras. Admire the traditional Buddhist artwork placed within the shrine (chaitya) and afterwards, attend a prayer session by Buddhist monks. Afterwards, travel to the ancient Boudhanath Stupa, one of the oldest and largest Buddhist stupas in Nepal. Admire its graceful architectural lines and watch Tibetan pilgrims circle the Stupa as part of their prayer rituals. You can light a traditional butter lamp and offer your prayers, if you wish. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning & Afternoon; Fitness Level: Easy; Please be suitably attired for visiting temples. Footwear and leather items are not usually allowed inside the Pashupatinath Temple. Please bring comfortable walking shoes).

Patan & Bhaktapur Visit
Nepal’s capital Kathmandu combines with Patan, the city of fine arts, and Bhaktapur, the city of devotees, to form the historic, artistic and cultural Kathmandu Valley. Explore Patan’s Hindu temples and Buddhist architecture! Considered Nepal’s cultural gem with its well-preserved pagodas, palaces and temples, regal Bhaktapur is surrounded by the mighty mountains of the Himalayas and boasts amazing views. It was also a stopping point for the ancient trade route between India and Tibet.

A Taste of Traditional Nepal at Bhaktapur
Always wanted to know more about the secluded mountain kingdom? Here’s your chance. Visit a local Nepalese home to learn more about the local culture and daily life at the town of Bhaktapur. Savor the feeling of a home away from home as you are graciously welcomed into the lives of traditional Nepali people through a tour that will explain the mysteries of the Nepali lifestyle. Guests in Nepal are akin to God and you will have the chance to savor some traditional homemade delicacies, including fried fish, special curries, and boiled and fried eggs that are served with rakshi (homemade spirit).

Hotel Options

Tibet International Hotel – Opt 1

Room	Tibet Intnl-Tibetan Boutique Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Dwarikas – Opt 2

Room	Dwarikas - Heritage Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Heritage

Day 4 - 8

Transfer from Kathmandu Hotel to Airport

Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa

Transfers from Lhasa Gonggar Airport to Hotel (60 Km, 1 hr)

Lhasa

4 Nights

The center of the Tibetan Buddhist world for over a millennium, Lhasa (‘Place of the Gods’) remains largely a city of our mystical imagination. The Potala Palace soaring above the city and the whitewashed old Tibetan quarter still preserves a bit of traditional Tibet.

Included Activities

Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery Tour
Experience the otherworldly life of Tibetan monks! The Drepung and Sera Monasteries are two of the three great universities to follow the Gelug or Yellow Hat school of Tibetan Buddhism that the Dalai Lama belongs to. Many believe the Drepung Monastery to be named after a famous Indian Stupa where the Buddha taught the Kalachakra Tantra. Admire historical relics, Buddhist scriptures and beautiful stone art and paintings around this monastery. The Drepung was home to the early Dalai Lamas until the 17th century when the fifth Dalai Lama built the new Potala Palace. On your trip back, visit a traditional Tibetan home and share a delicious meal of the region’s ubiquitous meat-filled dumplings. After lunch, head to one of Tibet’s best-preserved monasteries – the Sera Monastery. A much later addition in the 15th century, the Sera was rebuilt by the Chinese government after the Cultural Revolution of the late 1960s. It now serves as a functional monastery famous for heated debates on Buddhist philosophy among resident monks! (Full Day, Private Activity & Transfers; Meal included: Tibetan dumplings; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes)

Highlights of Lhasa
Soak yourself in the mysticism that defines Lhasa! Marvel at the impressive Potala Palace set atop Marpo Ri hill which was built by the fifth Dalai Lama in the 17th century. Surrounded by 7th century architectural marvels that form a part of the complex today, this World Heritage site is at the very heart of Tibetan cultural heritage. Visit the ancient Jokhang Temple right in the center of Old Lhasa, an exquisite amalgam of ancient Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese design and architectural elements. Direct your steps towards the more than 200 year old UNESCO World Heritage site of Norbulingka or ‘jeweled garden’ – an ideal example of Tibetan palace architecture. Set amid lush gardens, this summer palace of the Dalai Lama also served as a religious and administrative center. Spend your evening ambling around the streets of the bustling Barkhor Bazaar as locals go about their daily lives amid shops laden with jewelry, artifacts, masks and other souvenirs. (Full Day, Time of Day: Morning; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes. Please note that climbing the steps of the Potala Palace can be tiring due to the thin level of oxygen.)

Crystal Gazing at Namtso Lake
Discover the spectacular Namtso Lake surrounded by a quintessential Tibetan landscape on this full day trip. Head out from Lhasa in the morning, passing a starkly beautiful Tibetan countryside before reaching the holy lake that lies high up in the Himalayas. The sacred Namtso, at more than 4700 m altitude, is one of the highest saltwater lakes in the world. Take in its magnificent vastness and great depth, cradled by the snow-capped Himalayas and surrounded by rolling grasslands. Drink in the deep turquoise hues of this holy lake that exudes an equally deep tranquility. The lake is home to a couple of rocky outcrops and a handful of islands. Gaze out at the surrounding mountain tops and vast stretches of grasslands from the shores of the holy lake. Spot herds of domesticated yak grazing out in the pastures, with their nomadic herdsmen in tow. (Full Day Trip, Morning Activity; Private Activity & Private Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes).

Hotel Options

Yabshi Phunkhang – Opt 1

Room	Deluxe Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Lodge

Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Heritage

Day 8 - 10

Transfers from Lhasa Hotel to Gonggar Airport, Lhasa (60 Km, 1 hr)

Flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu

Drive from Kathmandu to Dhulikhel (32 km, 1.5 hr)

Dhulikhel

2 Nights

Dhulikhel: Undiscovered gem Dhulikhel is a scenic and ancient town located east of Kathmandu with panoramic views of the Himalayan range, enchanting temples, exquisite local handicrafts, and friendly and intriguing culture.

Included Activities

Highlights of Dhulikhel
Go on a tour of the traditional Buddhist Tamang villages; enjoy nature walks in the many popular trails; go birding and view some exotic species of birds.

Hotel Options

Dhulikhel Mountain Resort – Opt 1

Room	Dhulikhel Mt-Deluxe Room
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Style	Resort

Dwarika's Resort – Opt 2

Room	Dwarikas Resort- Junior Suite
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Style	Resort

Day 10 - 12

Drive from Dhulikhel to Kathmandu (32 km, 1.5 hr)

Flight from Kathmandu to Paro

Paro

2 Nights

Gateway to the Kingdom’s treasures! Known as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon,’ the charming town of Paro is home to Mt. Chumolhari and some of the oldest monasteries and temples in the region.

Included Activities

Highlights of Paro
Throw yourself into the city’s cultural gems! Begin at Rinpung Dzong, a 17th century Buddhist monastery and fortress built by Tibetan Buddhist lama Ngawang Namgyal. Visit the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower over several floors and brimming with Bhutanese relics, and the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, and enjoy scenic valley treks that boast views of Mount Chomolhari and Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th century sacred shrine. Discover the spectacular cliffside Taktshang Lhakhang Monastery, otherwise known as Tiger’s Nest, where it is believed Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress. Stay in Paro more than three nights and you can also visit Kila Goemba, home of Buddhist nuns, Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple), Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) and Rig Sum Goenpa (three giant hills) in Haa Valley.

Bhutanese Cooking Class in Paro
Take up this unique opportunity of learning how to cook delicious Bhutanese cuisine. Participate in this special cooking session held at local restaurant, where a team of master chefs demonstrate the art of cooking up a storm. Watch them prepare local Bhutanese delicacies, while you try out your own culinary skills as well. Have fun cooking local Bhutanese delicacies like the delectable and fiery ‘Emma Datshi’ made with chilies and local Bhutanese cheese, which also is the national dish of Bhutan!

Hotel Options

Raven's Nest – Opt 1

Room	Deluxe Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

COMO Uma Paro – Opt 2

Room	Uma - Valley View Deluxe Room
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Style	Resort

Day 12 - 14

Drive from Paro to Punakha (125 km, 4.5 hrs)

Punakha

2 Nights

An erstwhile capital, it now makes for a magical stay with splendid views of the distant, heavenly Himalayas at Dorchula Pass with a soothing climate and relaxing ambiance.

Included Activities

Highlights of Punakha
Take a tranquil, beautiful hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. Dominating upper Punakha Valley, the chorten affords commanding views of Mo Chhu and the mountainous peaks of Gasa. Visit Punakha Dzong, strategically built at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the dzong has been fully restored by the present king. In the afternoon, visit Chimi Lakhang, situated on a hillock and dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley (the Divine Madman). Also known as the temple of fertility, barren couples wishing to have children pray here as it is believed they are usually blessed with a child soon after. Walk across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning field. Visit Limbukha, famous for Bhutan’s infamous medicinal red rice.

Hotel Options

Khuru Resort – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Full Board
Style	Resort

COMO Uma Punakha – Opt 2

Room	Uma - Valley View Deluxe Room
Meals	Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
Style	Resort

Day 14 - 17

Drive from Punakha to Thimpu (76 km, 3 hrs)

Thimphu

3 Nights

Hidden realm of wonders! The only world capital without traffic lights, Thimphu is a regal yet bustling town amid glorious hills and home to the revered Bhutanese Royal family.

Included Activities

Highlights of Thimphu
Discover the King’s Memorial Chorten, which is continuously circled by people murmuring mantras and spinning prayer wheels. Explore Tashichhoe dzong (fortress of the glorious religion), the administrative center for government and religion. Browse the various government-run handicrafts emporium and local craft shops showcasing Bhutan’s fine traditional arts, including handwoven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, jewelry, ceramics, slate and wood carvings. Explore Zorig Chusum (the Painting School), Thanka Art School and the Institution of Traditional Medicine. Visit the National Library, housing an extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts and modern academic books on Himalayan culture and religion. You can also visit a handmade paper factory, the Mini Zoo, and Thimphu’s weekend market. Enjoy scenic treks and nature walks with views of the famous Himalayan range.

Hotel Options

Druk Hotel – Opt 1

Room	Druk Hotel- Deluxe
Meals	Full Board
Style	Heritage

Taj Tashi – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 17 - 18

Drive from Thimpu to Paro (55 kms, 2 hrs

Flight from Paro to Kathmandu

Transfer from Kathmandu Airport to Hotel

Kathmandu

1 Night

Included Activities

Hotel Options

Kantipur Temple house – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Dwarikas – Opt 2

Room	Dwarikas - Heritage Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Heritage

Transfer from Kathmandu Hotel to Airport

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1 From $ 4,390 /person
Option 2 From $ 5,390 /person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation in one double room for 18 days / 17 nights.
Meals as indicated
Economy flights for all sectors :
- Kathmandu – Lhasa (Flight)
- Lhasa – Kathmandu (Flight)
- Kathmandu – Paro
- Paro – Kathmandu
All activities as listed :
- Kathmandu: Durbar Square & Thamel Visit by Rickshaw
- Kathmandu: Discover the Heritage Haunts of Kathmandu
- Kathmandu: Patan & Bhaktapur Visit
- Kathmandu: A Taste of Traditional Nepal at Bhaktapur
- Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet: Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery Tour
- Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet: Highlights of Lhasa
- Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet: Crystal Gazing at Namtso Lake
- Dhulikhel: Highlights of Dhulikhel
- Paro: Highlights of Paro
- Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet: 2 Hr Bhutanese Cooking Class in Paro
- Punakha: Highlights of Punakha
- Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet: Highlights of Thimphu
- Kathmandu: A Taste of Traditional Nepal at Bhaktapur

All airport and hotel transfers
A high-quality air conditioned vehicle with unlimited mileage and a trusted chauffeur throughout your trip, apart from during your stay at a beach/backwater resort or houseboat if applicable.
All activities described in the itinerary, including entrance fees wherever applicable, accompanied by our tour guide
Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact, supporting you during your trip
Welcome kit including all important documents and information regarding your itinerary
Insolvency insurance
Fees and taxes

English speaking accompanying guide in Bhutan
All government and royalty taxes in Bhutan
Organization and fees for your visa to Bhutan & China/Tibet

Highlights of the Himalayas: Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet

Itinerary Summary

Ideal For

Itinerary Details

Kathmandu

Lhasa

Dhulikhel

Paro

Punakha

Thimphu

Kathmandu

Price & Inclusions

Price Includes