Day 1: Arrive in New Delhi
On arrival at Delhi International Airport follow the signs in the terminal to proceed through immigration, collect your luggage, clear customs and meet your representative in the Arrivals Hall. The airport representative will be holding a board with your names on it for identification.
A private transfer will bring you to your hotel. Remaining day at leisure.
Day 2: Delhi – Kathmandu
Transfer from your hotel to the Delhi airport and take a short flight to Nepal's capital - Kathmandu.
Surrounded by high mountain peaks, the Kathmandu Valley includes three fabled cities - Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur - each one formerly the capital of a small kingdom and home to an exposition of graceful temples, elegant palaces, brick-paved courtyards, and quaint streets. Several UNESCO World Heritage sites grace the valley region.
Visit to the Kathmandu Durbar Square with its array of temples and Nepali Royal Palaces provides for an enriching experience of centuries old civilization and traditions. Next, we visit an ancient religious complex set atop a hill with glorious views - Swayambhunath. Mobbed by monkeys and soaring above the city on a lofty hilltop, the 'Monkey Temple' is a fascinating, chaotic jumble of Buddhist and Hindu iconography. Thought to be more than 2,500 years old, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal and is a mosaic of small chaityas, pagodas and temples. Its impressive gleaming white stupa is one of the country's most iconic sights, draped in prayer flags and decorated on all four sides topped by a gilded spire with the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha.
Day 3: Kathmandu
In the morning we visit the City of Devotees - Bhaktapur - internationally recognized as the cultural gem of this nation. Once the capital of a small kingdom on the trade route between India and Tibet, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is notable for its excellent crafts (look for woven fabrics, woodcarvings, paper mache masks, scroll paintings, metalwork and jewelry), ornate palaces and temples galore. In fact, Bhaktapur boasts 19 Buddhist monasteries alone, and you will notice that pagodas and shrines pop up everywhere.
We then continue to Patan, the city of fine arts, enclosed within four stupas. Once a separate and rival city to Kathmandu but now engulfed by the latter's urban sprawl, Patan retains much of the old charm with its narrow streets, brick houses and a multitude of well-preserved Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries (vihars) and monuments. The Durbar Square offers a chance to observe everyday life as locals converse, relax and pray.
Stroll a few minutes north of the square to discover the Golden Temple, a Buddhist monastery effectively guarded by sacred tortoises that putter around the courtyard, and the Kumbeshawar, reputedly the oldest temple in Patan. Visit the charming streets with their traditional metal smiths and brass ware shops, where you'll have the opportunity to purchase handicrafts that follow the city's rich tradition of arts and master craftsmen.
In the afternoon, we visit Asia's largest stupa and may have the opportunity to witness thousands of pilgrims make a ritual circumnavigation of the dome beneath the four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal direction keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. As one of the few places in the world where Tibetan Buddhist culture is accessible, the lanes around the stupa are crammed with monasteries and workshops producing butter lamps, ceremonial horns, Tibetan drums, monks' headgear and other paraphernalia essential for Tibetan Buddhist life. See Tibetan monks in their maroon robes with shaved heads wandering the prayer flag-decked streets while pilgrims spin prayer wheels. We then make a short stop at an art school and learn about Thangka painting, a unique Himalayan art that attains classical levels in the Tibetan tradition between the 7th and 12th centuries. Thangka art is considered to be an object of devotion, an aid to spiritual practice and a source of blessings to those who meditate upon it.
Our final visit today is at Nepal's most important Hindu temple which stands on the banks of the holy Bagmati River - Pashupatinath. Situated amidst a lush green natural setting surrounded by a bustling market of religious stalls, this powerhouse of Hindu spiritual energy is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord of the Beasts. Although Non-Hindus cannot enter the main temple, the surrounding complex of Shaivite shrines, lingams and ghats (stone steps) is fascinating and highly photogenic. Sadhus and devotees of Shiva flock to Pashupatinath from across the subcontinent and many Nepalis choose to be cremated on the banks of the sacred river. Even the kings of Nepal used to come here to ask for a blessing from Pashupati before commencing any important journey.
Day 4 : Kathmandu
Today can be enjoyed at your leisure.
Day 5: Chitwan
After breakfast, we drive to Chitwan to enjoy two nights in the heart of the jungle. Chitwan National Park is a large and beautiful nature reserve and home to the royal Bengal tiger and the one-horned Indian rhino. Years ago Chitwan National Park was the private hunting ground Nepali royals and foreign aristocrats. During an infamous hunting expedition, King George V and his son Edward VIII managed to slaughter 39 tigers and 18 rhinos in a single blood-soaked afternoon. Now through dedicated wildlife conservation efforts the national park authorities continue to fight to protect the inhabitants of this cherished national park. There are more than 50 species of mammals in Chitwan including monkeys, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, hyenas, deer, elephants and rhinos. There are also 450 different species of birds and 67 species of butterflies. After lunch, we visit a traditional Tharu village. The indigenous tribe lives off the land and has a unique relationship with the wildlife. We will end the day by observing the traditional dance of the Tharu tribe.
Day 6: Chitwan
Chitwan is an ornithologist’s delight and a must for any serious twitchier, as more than 450 species of exotic birds such as the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Paradise Flycatcher, and Lesser Adjutant Stork congregate at this biological hotspot of Asia.We will set out early this morning with an experienced guide to select spots ideal for birding, where we can observe a breath-taking diversity of these beautiful feathered creatures.Then we will walk back to the hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, we will take a thrilling jeep safari to explore the terrain and the habitat of Chitwan National Park. During wildlife safaris, due to the terrain and vast landscape it unlikely to easily spot the Bengal tiger. But you will spot the haughty Indian rhino easily enough enjoying a snack in the wild. After lunch, we return to the national park and this time we will explore the area by a traditional dugout boat. Floating down to Rapti River by dugout canoe is the best way to discover the habitat of crocodiles on the bank of the river. It is also a relaxing and better way to watch the different kind of birds and wildlife species when they come to the bank of the river to drink water.
Day 7: Pokhara
After breakfast we will drive to the valley of Mountains - Pokhara. En-route we will visit Bandipur village which is just a short drive from the main highway. Bandipur is an ancient mountain village inhabited by the Newari people. These people came to this place form their native area of Bhaktapur, bringing with them their own unique culture and traditions. The Newars are friendly people who are only too happy to offer a smile and warm greetings. They are famous for their craftsman ship which results in many beautifully featured and carved buildings. This medieval town is mostly untouched by modernization and here you can enjoy the peacefulness and tranquility of life in the foothills of the Himalayas. After the excursion of Bandipur village concludes we will continue our drive to Pokhara.
The Pokhara Valley, a land of spectacular beauty crowned by the majestic Himalayas.The magnificent image of Mount Machhapuchhare reflected in the clear waters of the Lake Phewa leaves everyone spellbound. One of the Nepal’s adventure hubs, it has reputation of being the second home to mountaineers across the world. The valley is encircled by lush green hills and the snow clad mountains add a special radiance to the valley. They also form snow-fed rivers that run through the heart of the valley. The geographical studies reveal that centuries ago a glacier was formed in the valley. As the time passed, the temperatures steadily increased and the solid ice melted and formed a river that began flowing, cutting into the soil of Pokhara. The regular flow of glacial waters created several underground tunnels. Currently, most of these tunnels are dry and are found in the form of caves.
Today evening we will have a leisurely stroll around Lake Phewa to acclimatize to the stunning vistas.
Day 8: Pokhara
Early morning we will drive to Sarangkot [approx. 45 minute drive]. After a short hike, we will arrive at the highest viewpoint which sets the scene for a spectacular scene.From Sarangkot we have the chance to witness the breathtaking sunrise envelops the entire valley. After soaking in the sunrise, we will return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, we set out to explore the other interesting sights of Pokhara.
Later in the evening, we will have a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the clear reflections of Mt. Annapurna and the Machhapuchhare mountain range on the water.
Day 9: Kathmandu
Morning at leisure. Mid-morning drive back to Kathmandu for overnight stay.
Day 10: Thimpu
This morning we fly to Bhutan. After immigration, we will meet our local guide, and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. En-route, we will travel along the River Paro, stopping at Chuzom, the confluence of Thimphu and Paro rivers where three different style of stupas; Tibetan, Nepalese and Bhutanese are set.
Thimphu is a unique city, with a population of around 90,000 it is one of the world's smallest capitals and perhaps still the only one without a traffic light. The city is developing but still remains relatively low rise and regulations mean most of the buildings are still constructed in a traditional style.
After lunch, we visit the King's Memorial Chorten, built by the former King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk who was known as "the father of modern Bhutan", it serves as both a memorial and as a monument to peace and is continuously circled by devout locals, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels.
Afterwards, we drive to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), this recently completed giant Buddha statue offers beautiful views over Thimphu and the surrounding countryside. Later, we enjoy an exploratory walk around the heart of Thimphu, visting the main street and market area. We will visit the local crafts bazaar, to browse through example of Bhutan's traditional handicrafts. Here you can buy hand-woven textiles, thangkha paintings, masks, ceramics, wood carvings and jewellery.
In the evening we have organized a traditional welcome dinner with a local family where you will get the opportunity to sample local delicacies and learn about Bhutan's unique cultural and traditional values.
Day 11: Thimpu
Following breakfast, we commence our sightseeing tour of the Thimphu Valley. Visit the National Library, which houses an extensive collection of priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Institute for Zorig Chusum (known as the Painting School) where students undergo a 6-year training course in Bhutan's 13 traditional arts and crafts. You can watch the students as they develop their skills and purchase examples of their work. Later visit the Textile Museum, which provides insight into Bhutan's one of the most distinct art form. We also visit Simply Bhutan, a living museum and studio encapsulating the cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people.
After lunch, we take a short drive to the 16th century Pangri Zampa, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Here Buddhist students learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy. Later we visit the Takin Preserve. "Takin" is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomy places the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.
We then visit Trashichhoedzong, one of the most important buildings in the nation. This large structure is the center of government and religion, the site of monarch's throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Originally built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in 1960s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans following a fire.
After returning to our hotel there will be some free time to explore Thimphu's center, visiting shops and the local market. Prior to dinner, we have arranged a special cooking demonstration held at local restaurant where a team of chefs demonstrate how local Bhutanese delicacies are prepared. Bhutanese food is heavily seasoned with red chilies and can be quite hot. Tasty and fiery 'Emma Datshi' made with chilies and local Bhutanese cheese is the national dish of Bhutan. Guests can have fun participating in the preparation of local Bhutanese delicacies.
Day 12: Punakha
After breakfast, we leave Thimphu and drive to Punakha across the Dochula pass (3,080m). Like other passes In Bhutan, the pass is marked by traditional Bhutanese Chortens draped with prayer flags. With clear weather there are spectacular views over the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas.
In the afternoon we visit Punakha Dzong (the Palace of Great Happiness), built at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal this majestic dzong once served as the religious and the administrative center of Bhutan. Your guide will explain more about the intricate culture of Bhutan, explaining the significance of the paintings that adorn the temple.
Later in the day we visit Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of the Divine Madman, it is situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley. The Divine Madman was a maverick 15th century saint who blessed the site and it is now considered as an important fertility site, where couples who want children are usually blessed with a child very soon after praying here. The temple is reached by a trail which leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, where you are offered a rare glimpse into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers. Also watch out for the phallic paintings and sculptures which adorn many of the buildings to the amusement of tourists.
Later in the afternoon drive back to Punakha/Wangdue for overnight. The evening is free to explore the small town of Wangdue and its local market.
Day 13: Punakha
After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Phobjikha and Gangtey. The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan, a wide, flat valley without any trees reached after a hard climb through dense forest.
We visit Gangtey Goempa, 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 Mountains 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. We explore the beautiful Gangtey village and visit a traditional farm house, offering an insight into the lifestyle of a traditional farmer. Bhutanese farm houses are very colorful, decorative and traditionally built without the use of single nail. All houses follow the same architectural pattern.
Later, we continue to the fascinating Phobjikha valley, which lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park and boasts two beautiful meandering rivers. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in a milder and lower climate. To learn more, we visit the Black Necked Crane Information Centre, which 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.
Day 14: Paro
After breakfast, we drive to Paro along the scenic highway. En route, we visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in the country built in 1627 and now home to the School for Buddhist studies. After lunch in Paro, we proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, this impressive structure now houses the National Museum. The museum is home to an extensive collection, including antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons &armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.
From the museum we take a short walk down the hill to visit Rinpung Dzong, fortress of the heap of jewels, which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine paintings illustrating Buddhist lore.
In the evening, we visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.
Day 15: Paro
In the morning we start early to participate in a traditional puja ceremony at a monastery aiming at peace, prosperity and happiness. We then embark on a memorable excursion to the iconic Tiger's Nest monastery.
One of Bhutan's most famous monasteries, it is perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it's Tiger's Nest name. This site has been recognised as an important sacred site and is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. The monastery is reached by a relatively demanding trek through lush pine forests, draped with prayer flags.
Following the descent and lunch we drive in the afternoon to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. We drive to the base and then hike up to the Dzong. The snowy dome of the sacred Chomolhari mountain which in clear weather can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong.
In the evening, witness a cultural performance, followed by dinner. All Bhutanese art, dance, drama and music has its roots in the Buddhist religion. The music of Bhutan is an integral part of its culture and plays a leading role in transmitting social values. Traditional Bhutanese music includes a spectrum of genres, ranging from folk to religious song and music. Dances are performed wearing ornate costumes and masks, with each aspect having a symbolic meaning.
Day 16: Paro – Delhi
We fly back to Delhi today, where we have made arrangements for a room to relax and refresh prior to your international departure.
Day 17: Departure from Delhi
Connect to your flight back to your home country.