India, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim Tour
DURATION: 36 DAYS

ITINERARY

DAY 01:
ARRIVE IN DELHI
Upon arrival you will be met by our representative at the international airport and will be transferred to the hotel. Delhi is the nation’s capital and India’s third largest city with a population of 10 million plus, covering an area of 1483 sq km. It is located in the northern part of India, at a height of 239 m above sea level, and is a bustling metropolis. The main languages spoken are Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi, although English is also widely understood.
Delhi is also a major travel gateway and is one of the busiest entrance points for overseas airlines, being a major link to all other northern and southern cities.
Overnight at hotel, New Delhi.
DAY 02: FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING OF NEW AND OLD DELHI
The guide will report you at the hotel in the morning and take you for the sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi.
There is Old Delhi and New Delhi, although the demarcation between the two has begun to blur and areas to the north, south, east and west of Delhi are becoming increasingly popular. New Delhi was designed and built by the British and remains the hub of major political and commercial activities giving the city a cosmopolitan air. It is graced with wide roads, stately monuments, government buildings and embassies, and green parks and gardens.
Begin with old Delhi by visit to Jama Masjid, Indias largest mosque, built of red sandstone and white marble in the middle of the 17th Century. Then enjoy strolling around Chadni Chowk (Silver Street), once the Imperial Avenue down which Shah Jehan rode at the head of lavish cavalcades, and endless little alleyways, today bustling with silversmiths ateliers and shops and stalls selling almost everything! You may also like to visit the Red Fort, built in 1648 during the reign of Shah Jehan in red sandstone, which gave the fort its name. There is a museum that houses a 14th century manuscript of the Holy Quran.
Sightseeing of New Delhi includes a visit to India Gate, built in memory of Indian soldiers killed during the First World War. Rashtrapati Bhawan, built in the early 20th century as the Imperial residence of the Viceroy is today the official residence of the President of India and Parliament House and unique circular building with huge colonnades, houses the Upper and Lower Houses of Parliament.
Drive straight to one of Delhi’s most striking monuments is the 70-meter high Qutub Minar, which looms majestically across the wide plains of Delhi.
End your tour with a visit to Humayans Tomb; the first Mughal garden tomb, built by his grieving widow, Hamida Begum, of red sandstone and white marble. The tomb houses 100 graves within it. Visitors are immediately struck by the tomb’s resemblance to its more famous cousin, the Taj Mahal, with its four grand gateways, octagonal base-plan, soaring niche-shaped arches, lofty double domes and the symmetrical garden with its central canal. Wander round the gardens, the air filled with the sounds of peacocks and a wide variety of birds; and sit quietly on a bench watching the sun go down.
Drive back to the hotel evening free for leisure.
Overnight at hotel, New Delhi.
DAY 03: DRIVE TO JAIPUR (259 KM, 6 HOURS)
Morning after breakfast drive to Jaipur. The Rose Pink City founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1743), is the capital of Rajasthan. The Old City (Known as the Pink City) is a great place to wander around. The whole city was painted in Pink colour by Maharaja Man Singh II when Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876 AD. Today, every home within the city is obliged by law to maintain its facade. It is a very well planned city laid out in a grid pattern and was designed by a young Bengali engineer and scholar by the name "Vidyadhar Bhattacharya".
Jaipur got its name from its founder Sawai Jai Singh (1693-1743), who had the vision to create a meticulously planned city as his capital. Jaipur was and remains the only city in the world, symbolising the nine divisions of the universe, through nine rectangular sectors sub-dividing it. Jaipur is a royal city & this is its most noticeable aspect, small buildings & festivals testify it. Jaipur & its surroundings are rather like an endless museum. The city also offers an endless variety of crafts. Jewellers here still fashion the beautiful enamel-on-gold pendants, studded on the reverse with precious stones or pearls & turquoise that one sees in miniature paintings. Jaipurs lacquer bangles are famous all over the world.
Upon arrival check in to the hotel, evening free for leisure.
Overnight at hotel, Jaipur
DAY 04: ELEPHANT RIDE ON AMBER FORT & CITY TOUR OF JAIPUR
In the morning your guide will take you to Amber Fort for the Elephant ride, 11 km north of Jaipur and the regional capital for 6 centuries before Jaipur was built. Rising majestically on the slopes of a hill, this 11th century fort and palace complex is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles. It may be possible (subject to availability) to enjoy an elephant ride up the ramparts of the fort. The earlier constructions in the inner apartments designed by the Hindu founder are austere, while later constructions abound in the rich flourishes characteristic of Muslim influence. The Diwani-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) affords a view of the strategic location of Amber. The Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory) is the finest example of the artistic exuberance of the day - panels of alabaster, fine inlay work, a shimmering Hall of Mirrors, renowned for its fine mirror work. The Sukh Nivas (Hall of Pleasure) has 17th century air conditioning.
Continue exploring Jaipur, one of the best planned cities in India, built of rose-pink sandstone by the great astronomer-king Jai Singh II in 1727. The City Palace stands in the centre of the city. Part of it is still the Maharajas residence, while most of the complex has been developed into a museum containing rare manuscripts, fine specimens of Rajput and Mughal paintings, royal apparel and an armoury. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is the landmark of Jaipur. It stands on one of the main streets, a curious building, elaborate and fanciful, built of pink sandstone with a delicate honeycomb design. Rising five storeys high, it is composed of semi-octagonal overhanging windows, each with its perforated screen, which allowed the ladies of the court to look onto the main street without being seen.
Jantar Mantar is the observatory, built by the founder of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The huge stone instruments were devised to study the movements of the sun, moon and planets and are incredibly accurate.
There is time to wander through the colourful bazaars, a veritable collectors paradise where you can watch ancient craft forms. Meenakari or enamelling delicate patterns of birds and flowers fired in glowing red, deep green, peacock blue and white; the gold jewel is then given further sparkle with emeralds, rubies, white sapphires and dangling pearls. In tiny ateliers you can see the age-old tie-dye methods of cloth printing, with yard upon yard of vivid turquoise, ochre and crimson cloth unfolding.
Overnight at hotel, Jaipur.
delicate honeycomb design. Rising five storeys high, it is composed of semi-octagonal overhanging windows, each with its perforated screen, which allowed the ladies of the court to look onto the main street without being seen.
Jantar Mantar is the observatory, built by the founder of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The huge stone instruments were devised to study the movements of the sun, moon and planets and are incredibly accurate.
There is time to wander through the colourful bazaars, a veritable collectors paradise where you can watch ancient craft forms. Meenakari or enamelling delicate patterns of birds and flowers fired in glowing red, deep green, peacock blue and white; the gold jewel is then given further sparkle with emeralds, rubies, white sapphires and dangling pearls. In tiny ateliers you can see the age-old tie-dye methods of cloth printing, with yard upon yard of vivid turquoise, ochre and crimson cloth unfolding.
Overnight at hotel, Jaipur.
DAY 05: DRIVE TO AGRA VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI (232 KM, 6 HOURS)
After breakfast drive to Agra. Approx. 6 hours drive en route visit Fatehpur Sikri. This deserted sandstone city was the glorious but short-lived imperial capital of Akbar, the greatest of Mughal emperors. Lying on a rocky ridge, it is today a haunting complex of empty palaces, forts and mosques. A variety of architectural styles are found, since craftsmen representing many schools were employed.
Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal empire between 1570 and 1586. But as abruptly as it had been built, it was abandoned. A popular legend is attached to the citys conception; Emperor Akbar was without a male heir and therefore made a pilgrimage to seek the blessings of the powerful saint Sheikh Salim Chisti. His prayer was fulfilled and soon a son was born to him. In honour of the saint, Akbar named the prince Salim, and decided to found a new city to celebrate his birth. And thus, the magnificent Fatehpur Sikri, the new capital, came into being. The city was intended to embody the noble ideals and the humanitarian bent of this dynamic emperor. Although a Muslim, Akbar was famous for his incredible tolerance towards other religions and he is said to have indulged in a great deal of study and discussion in this field in his new capital. He also created a new religion, Deen-e-Elahi, which attempted to fuse positive aspects of all the major religions.
Continue your drive to Agra, on arrival check in at the hotel, evening free for leisure.
Agra is a city that is still associated with the memorable Mughal period during which, in the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra was the capital of India. The city has many monuments that epitomize the high point of Mughal architecture. It was here that the founder of the dynasty, Babar, laid out the first formal Persian garden on the banks of the river Yamuna. Here, Akbar, his grandson raised the towering ramparts of the great Red Fort. Within its walls, Jehangir built rose-red palaces, courts and gardens, and Shah Jehan embellished it with marble mosques, palaces and pavilions of gem-inlaid white marble. Agra is home to some of the world famous monuments that are an epitome of skilled craftsmanship and timeless beauty; the crowing glory being, of course, the Taj Mahal.
Evening free for leisure.
Overnight in Hotel, Agra
DAY 06: AGRA SIGHTSEEING & TRANSFER TO TRAIN STATION FOR VARANASHI
Sun rise is a wonderful time to visit the Taj Mahal - surely the greatest monument to love and one of the wonders of the modern world. There are fewer visitors at this time and the sun casts its mellow rays on this magical building, bathing the pristine white marble edifice in warm hues of gold, ochre, orange, rust and flame. Completed in 1652, skilled craftsmen from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy and some 20,000 laborers’ worked for 17 years to build this edifice, constructed by Emperor Shah Jehan as a mausoleum for his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal stands serene and awesome, on a raised marble platform, by the banks of the Yamuna River. It was built in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved wife of Emperor Shah Jehan, who died giving birth to their 14th child. The main architect of this symbol of eternal love was Isa Khan, who was brought all the way from Shiraz in Iran. After Shah Jehan was deposed and brutally imprisoned in the Agra Fort by his son, Aurangzeb, he spent the rest of his life looking wistfully at his wifes final resting place, just across the river.
Drive back to the hotel for breakfast. Check out from the hotel drive to Agra fort.
Visit Agra Fort standing like a crescent on the banks of the Jamuna River, enclosed by forbidding 20-meter high walls with a 12-meter moat between them, three successive Mughal emperors - Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jehan - helped create this massive structure which is notable for its smooth blending of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The Fort houses palaces, courts, mosques, baths, gardens and gracious pavilions within its premises. Among the fascinating structures is the red sandstone Jehangiri Mahal built by Akbar for his Hindu queen, Jodhabai, this being one of the earliest constructions illustrating the forts change from a military structure to a palace. The Diwan-i-Am, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Khas Mahal, the Palace of Mirrors, the Pearl mosque, the Nagina Masjid, the Garden of Grapes, and the Fish Pavilion are the other monuments in the fort complex.
After Dinner in the local restaurant or with the packed dinner you will be transferred to railway station to board your overnight to Varanashi MARUDHAR EXPRESS departing at 21:20 hours and arriving Varanashi at next morning 8:35 hours.
Overnight in train.
DAY 07: Arrive in Varanashi Train station and transfer to Hotel
After breakfast in hotel our representative will take you to Saranath. Sarnath, about 10 km away from the holy city of Varanasi, is the place where Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon. The celebrated Mantra, 'Buddham Sharanam Gachhami', owes its origin to Sarnath. On the day before his death Buddha included Sarnath along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar as the four places he thought to be sacred to his followers. It makes Sarnath one of the most venerated Buddhist places. Besides Buddhism, Sarnath is also connected with Jainism.
After lunch we will take you to River Ganga. Ganga is a major river of the Indian subcontinent, associated in myth and reality with the land and people of India as well as neighboring countries like Bangladesh. In Hinduism, the river Ganga is personified as Goddess and holds an important place in the Hindu religion. In Hindu mythology, it is believed that bathing in the river Ganga causes the remission of sins and facilitates the attainment of salvation or nirvana. This deep-rooted truth is proved by the fact that people travel from distant places to immerse the ashes of their kin in the water of the Ganga at Varanasi or other places located on the banks of this holy river. Some of these sacred places, located on the Ganga, are Varanasi, Haridwar and Prayag (Allahabad).
Day 8: After breakfast DRIVE TO SUNAULI (Nepal-India Border). 320km approx. from Vanarashi (8 hours drive by private vehicle)
Lunch on the way
After immigration and custom formalities transfer to hotel in Lumbini or Bhairahawa.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 9: After breakfast visit Lumbini and Tilaurakot (Kapilvastu).
Lumbini is the place where the newly born prince Siddhartha (simply known as Buddha) took his first seven steps and uttered an epoch-making message to the suffering humanity, this happened exactly in a beautiful Sal grove, which is now a focal point of Lumbini Garden area. Maya Devi, the queen of Sakya King Suddhodana of Kapilvastu, while passing through the Lumbini Garden. On the day of Vaishakha Poornima (the full moon-day of may 623BC), took a bath in the Pushkami (the sacred pond) and soon after she took support of a tree branch, then birth to the Crown Prince Siddhartha, who become Buddha. The Lumbini Garden covers an area of 1X3 sq. miles and encompasses three zones each covering one square mile connected with walkways and a canal. In Lumbini we have many stupas built by many countries. We also have Ashoka Pillar and Mayadevi Temple. Many Buddhist come here for praying and they believe that there would be peace in the world after their praying in the Lumbini.
Tilaurakot, 25km west of Lumbini, is said to be the childhood home of the Buddha. Tilaurakot is believed to the capitla of the Kapilavastu kingdom, where the Prince Siddhartha Gautam lived for the first 29 years of his life. Tilaurakot is 3km north of the busy village of Tiulihawa. Few less people visit here than Lumbini. It is a peaceful place with shaded grounds. There are the remains of some stupas( a mound of Lord Buddha) ,some fort gates, old city walls and a moat. There are two Ashokan Pillars here, which were put up to memorialize the birth of the Buddha in two previous ages. The eastern gate is considered important, because the Buddha is said to have pasted through this gate when he departed to find enlightenment. We will take you back to the hotel after visiting Lumbini and Tilaurakot.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 10: After breakfast departure to Chitwan. Approx 180 km, 4:00 hours.
We will Check in hotel in Chitwan and have lunch there we will take you to see jungle activity in Chitwan National Park. The Chitwan National Park, established in 1973, provides a great wildlife experience with its rich flora and fauna –read further for more details. The wildlife and the landscape are not as breathtaking as those found in Africa but still, the experience will stand out in Chitwan National Park.
Chitwan is only 150m above the sea level. The place gets steamy from March-June, with peak temperatures reaching 43°C in the shade. Short grass makes Feb-May the best game-viewing season, but the autumn months are gorgeous, with Himalayan views, and in winter (December-January), Chitwan is pleasantly warmed compared to Kathmandu. The monsoon season (July-August) is intense with pounding rain, swollen rivers, and luxuriant vegetation. While the rain isn't constant, the humidity is all pervasive.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 11: Full day jungle activity in Chitwan National Park
This is the right place to see the activities of birds and other animals. Chitwan national park offers an opportunity for pet lovers to enhance life time experience seeing Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, various species of birds and butterflies. Your choice of Resorts and lodges are located in the region. Most of the activities include elephant safaris, jungle walks, canoeing, jungle drive, bird watching, elephant bathing, and many more cultural activities.
Overnight in Hotel
Day 12: After breakfast transfer to Pokhara. Approx 160km, 4:30 hours.
We will check in Hotel after we arrive in very beautiful city, Pokhara and we will have lunch there. After lunch we will take you to visit Few lake and peace pagoda stupa.
The Fewa (or Phewa) Lake 1.5 kilometer long, second largest lake in Nepal, offers an excellent view of the mountains and their reflections on the lake. Many tours and trekking operators and hotels are located on the lakeside. One can easily find a place to sit back, relax and enjoy great meal while enjoying scenery here. You will also enjoy boating on the lake.
World Peace Pagoda, a massive Buddhist stupa is situated on the top of a hill on the southern shore of Phewa Lake. Besides being a impressive sight in itself, the shrine is a great vantage point which offers the spectacular views of the Annapurna range, Phewa Lake, and the Pokhara city.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 13: Sarankot sunrise tour
We will take you to Sarankot in early morning where you can see a panoramic sweep of Himalayan peaks, Dhaulagiri (8167m) in the west to the perfect pyramid that is Machhapuchhare (6997m) and the rounded peak of Annapurna II (7937m) in the east. Most people come here at dawn or dusk, when the sun picks out the peaks in brilliant colors.
The main village is just below the ridge, but a set of steps leads uphill to a dramatic viewpoint in the ruins of an ancient kot (hill fort). It is currently occupied by the army, but photography is fine, as long as you don't take pictures of the soldiers. After Sunrise we will take you to visit Mahendra cave, Seti Bridge and Bindabasani Temple.
We will come back to hotel after the visit of early morning and have Breakfast at hotel. We will take you to visit Davids Fall, Guptesyar Mahadev Temple. Davis Fall an unique waterfall that lies 2 Km from central Pokhara City. The water fall directly goes into a deep and narrow canal with no ends. It is believed that this deadly waterfall took the life of a tourist named David, who fell down into the canal and was never found, and hence the name David waterfall, named in his memory by the people of Pokhara. This place has many nick names like Davy's Fall, David's Fall or Davis's Fall, all mean the same thing.
After visiting the above mentioned places we will come back to hotel and have lunch there. After lunch we will take you to visit Intl Mountain Museum, Regional Museum, Super Market and Lake Side Market.
Overnight in Hotel
Day 14: After breakfast transfer to Kathmandu. 200km.
We will see Charaudi closed by Trishuli river on our way to Kathmandu and we will stop there to experience rafting in Trishuli river for 1 hour. We will have lunch in river side and can experience for another session of rafting for two and half hours and then we will continue our destination to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
The Trishuli river is very accessible to visit from different places of Nepal because of well transporation and very famous for rafting trip. We can experience of sight seeing and rafting in Trishuli river depending upon the availability of time and interest. The Trishuli is the most popular river for rafting followed by the Sun Koshi. A Trishuli trip can be easily managed to end at a place where a wildlife tour begins.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 15: After breakfast full day Kathmandu sightseeing
Swayambhunath, situated on a hillock about 77m above the level of the Kathmandu Valley is one of the worlds most glorious Buddhist Chaityas, said to be 2000 years old. Swayambhnath is located 4 km west of central Kathmandu.
The Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is a temple of Lord Shiva, with two tiered golden roof and silver doors, is famous for its superb architecture. It is situated 5km east of Kathmandu city. This temple is regarded as one of the holiest sites for Hindus all over the world. Visitors can clearly seen the temple and the activities performed in the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati river.
The stupa of Bouddhnath is an ancient Buddhist monument and is the biggest stupa in Nepal. It is located 5km east of central Kathmandu. The stupa stands on a three-tiered platform raised over the crossed rectangles. Every Buddhist come to visit Boudhanath for making round the stupa. Buddhist believes Boudha Stupa is the mind of Buddha.
The another attraction of Kathmandu is Kathmandu Durbar Square, is the historic seat of royalty. It is located at the heart of Kathmandu Ciy. The durbar square, with its old temples and places, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. The king of Nepal that kings used to get crowned and their coronations solemnized before the monarchy was abolished. Another attraction of this Durbar is we can see Kumari, the living child goddesses of Nepal . Kumari is believed to have supreme power. That is why the King of the Nepal used to bow and take blessing from him as well.
Patan Durbar Square complex, situated in the center of Patan city, also known as Lalitpur, houses the residence of the former Patan royal family. Patan Square and its surroundings are good specimen of ancient Newari architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one is located at the centre of Patan square. After visiting these all unique and superb places we will back to hotel .
Overnight in hotel
Day 16: Kathmandu – Zangmu/Neyalam (3600m) – 153 km
Departure at 05:30 hrs from your hotel
Approximately 05 hours drive to Kodari (China / Nepal boarder), Half an hour drive to Zhangmu, where after completion of immigration from authorities we drive further to Neylam following Bhotekoshi river in a deep valley with some overflowing waterfalls.
Overnight in Hotel
Day17: Neylam – Tingri/ Lhatse (4050m) – 285 km
Drive through Neyalam Pass (3800m) with the view of Jugal Himal. A continued drive via Lalungla Pass (5050m) has some of the outstanding view of Mt. Xixapangma (8013m highest in Tibet) Mt. Makalu (8464), Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Cho Oyu (8201m) and Mt. Everest (8848m)
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 18: Lhatse _ Xigatse (3900m) - 90km
Drive to Xigatse, the place of the famous Tashilumpo Monastery and the seat of Panchen Lama. The Tashilumpo Monastery, located in Shigatse, Tibet, is a reflection of Chinese culture and religion that has influenced people around the world. Visitors of the monastery are mostly Buddhist followers who want to pay honor and tribute to the sacred place. Others are just plain curious about the lifestyle and teaching of Buddhism. Those who visit the place will catch a glimpse of the rich and influential Buddhist tradition.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 19: Xigatse _ Gyantse (3950m) - 90 km
After visiting Tashilumpo Monastery in the morning including the Bazar of Xigatse we will drive to Gyantse, which is 02 hrs. Gyantse is a small busting town steeped in history. It lies 264 kms. Southwest of Lhasa on the northern bank of Nyang Chu river. In the 15th century it served as the capital of a small kingdom. Visit Kumbum Chorten which was built around 1400 AD. It later became the main center for trade with British India
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 20: Gyantse – Lhasa (3650m) – 261 km
08 –hrs drive takes you to Lhasa crossing the Karo La Pass (5010m) and Kambala Pass (4794m). The Karo La climbs between two lofty mountains, Nozing Khang Sa (7223m) and Ralung (6236m). While driving you will see the Yamdrok Tso (Turguoise Lake) which takes approx. 1 hour to cross around. After passing Kamba La, Lhasa valley is seen to the north. You will also cross the Brahmaputra river. Reaching Lhasa and check into hotel. The accompanied guide will reconfirm your onward airline ticket
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 21: Visit Potala Palace / Sera monastery
In the morning we tour Potala, the winter palace of the Dalai Lama & listed as a world heritage site. Potala named after a holy hill in South India is a Sanskrit word meaning "Abode of the Avalokite?vara (Buddha of Mercy)." Legend has it that in the 7th century, to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty (618B.C. - 907B.C.) of China, the then Tibet King Songtsen Gampo built a 9-storey palace with a thousand rooms up on the Red Hill and named it Potala. Later, with the collapse of the Songtsen Gampo Dynasty, the ancient palace was almost destroyed in wars. What we see at present is the architecture of the Qing Dynasty (1644B.C. - 1911B.C.) and the continuous expanding work outcome since the 17th century.
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 monastery was named Sera which mean wild rose in the Tibetan language, because the hill behind it was covered with wild roses in bloom when the monastery was built. The monastery is magnificent and covers an area of 114,946 square meters (28 acres).
Overnight in Hotel
Day 22: Visit Jorkhang Temple / Barkhor street / Drepung monastery
The Jokhang Temple was built on the former site of a lake. According to the legend, the lake site was chosen after many failed attempts to build a temple in the region. Prior to this, every time a temple was built, it would collapse. Confused by this phenomenon, Princess Bhrikuti turned to Wen Cheng for help. Being a learned woman, Wen Cheng told the Princess that the geography of Tibet was very much like a hag, with the lake at the heart. In order to build the temple, Wen Cheng advised they must demolish the hag by filling and leveling the lake using 1,000 goats to carry soil from a mountain far away. When the temple was done, it was called Ra-Sa-Vphrul-Snang ('ra' meaning goat and 'sa' meaning earth in Tibetan) to commemorate those goats.
Located in the old area of Lhasa City, Tibet, Barkhor Street is a very ancient round street surrounding the Jokhang Temple and the Tibetan people are always proud of it. As a symbol of Lhasa, this street is also a must-see place for the tourists. It's said that in 647, the first Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo (617 - 650) built the Jokhang Temple. Due to its magnificence, it quickly attracted thousands of Buddhist pilgrims. As a result, a trodden path appeared. That is the origin of Barkhor Street.
Situated at the foot of the Mountain Gambo Utse, 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the western suburb of Lhasa, the Drepung Monastery is known as the most important monastery of Gelugpa in Tibetan Buddhism. It is considered one of the 'Three Great Monasteries' (the other two are the Ganden Monastery and the Sera Monastery. Covering an area of 250,000 square meters (299,007 square yards), it held 7,700 monks in total and possessed 141 fazendas and 540 pastures in its heyday, and is the largest-scale monastery among the ones of the same kind.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 23: Early morning after breakfast drive to the airport for Kathmandu.
Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport and transfer to hotel by our representative.
After lunch we will go to visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Bhaktapur is the land of devotees. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is an assortment of pagoda and shikhara-style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. The square is part of a charming valley as it highlights the idols of ancient kings perched on top of stone monoliths, the guardian deities looking out from their sanctuaries, the wood carvings in very place - struts, lintels, tympanums, gateways and windows - all seem to form a well orchestrated symphony.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 24: After early breakfast transfer to airport for Bhutan
The flight into the Bhutan Himalayas is one of the most spectacular experiences you will ever witness. Flying in from the himalayan country of Nepal towards the Northeast, one can witness from the left side of the plane, a chain of the worlds highest and majestic peaks. Pay careful attention when the Druk Air captain points out the names: Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga and the rest as you fly pass them in minutes. Soon you will descend into Druk Yul, and even as the plane lowers
it landing gears preparing for landing you will not find any air strip or signs of a city, do not despair, instead enjoy the view of the approaching valley and the primeval alpine forests, the little monasteries, temples and farm houses all in splendid isolation. Moments before landing, you may catch a glimpse of the fertile Paro valley, the colossal Paro Dzong and the winding Paro Chu river. As you step out of the plane, take your first breath of cool, clean fresh air, this will be your first free gift Bhutan has to offer to the guest. After your Bhutanese guide identifies you, he will escort you to the Hotel.
Overnight in hotel.
DAY 25: PARO VALLEY
The people of Paro are known for their hard work which they like to show in their big and traditional country houses. If you marry a girl from Paro, be prepared to put a metal roofing over the traditional single roof in your wifes house, to show that you are a capable and well – to – do husband, so we joke among ourselves. Morning sightseeing includes: the Ta Dzong National Museum considered to be one of the best natural history museums in Asia; it has a fine collection of natural and historic artifacts. A short drive to the Drukgyel Dzong fortress, a strategic sentry where the Bhutanese forces repelled the numerous Tibetan invasions from the north; the majestic Jumolhari or the Mountain of the Goddess can be seen in the background for many, the 2- 3 hour hike to Taktsang or the famous Tigers Nest is a memorable spiritual journey. It was here that the great tantric master Guru Padmasambhava flew in from Tibet on a tiger to bring Buddhist teachings to Bhutan, retreat in their spiritual quest: the remainder of the day can be spent shopping or simply strolling through town.
Overnight in hotel.
DAY 26-27: THIMPHU: THE CAPITAL OF BHUTAN
Thimphu is a short hour and half drive from one main valley to the next across paddy fields, apple orchards, farm houses, paddy stacks, farmers drying paddies on the road, cattle, pine trees and hamlets that smell of burning wood. Check in at the Jumolhari or Druk Hotels. When in Thimphu be prepared for several things. This unique capital (8000 feet) of the country has adopted its own version of the British – India colonial times traffic policemen, who can startle you and memorize others with his elaborate hand gestures: sometimes he may be signaling stop when it looks like go but you don’t have to worry about it and just observe the flow and notice this smile as you stare at him.
Sightseeing includes the Tashicho Dzong, seat of the royal government and central monastic body, it was rebuilt in the early 1960s after a fire destroyed most of the building; the late Kings Memorial Chorten which is well visited by the residents of Thimphu especially during the festive and religious occasions; the Handicrafts Center to view the traditional arts now being revived by the government: the Indigenous Medicine Hospital, where herbal medicine, acupuncture and the ancient art of healing that has passed down from Tibet is still being practiced today ; if time permits you can also visit the Thankha Painting School; silver and goldsmith village; if you visit coincides on a Saturday or a Sunday you witness the interesting Sunday Market so called even on Saturday, you can delve into the various vegetables, chilies, temperature fruits from all parts of Bhutan, (all grown without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers); not far from the market place is the Changlimithang ground where you will always find the game of archery (the national sport of Bhutan) being played.
Overnight in hotel.
DAY 28: THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA & WANGIPHODRANG (3HRS DRIVE)
After breakfast we will drive east climbing steadily towards the Dochu La Pass at 10000 feet. A large chorten and forest of prayer flags greet you as you face the range of majestic peaks towards the North, Gangar Punsum, among others is the highest unclimbed peak (over 24000 feet) in the world. The descent from the pass to valley is about 2 hours, with a altitude drop of over 5500 feet you pass through temperate forest colored with rhododendrons and magnolias, down to the semitropical zone of orange, banana and cactuses. Situated near the river on a small plateau is the famous Chime Lhakhang for infertile women.
The Punakha Dzong built in the 16th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, was the winter capital for 300 years; today it is winter home to the Je Khenpo the chief Abbot, hundreds of monks, and also serves as the asministrative headquaters for the Punakhadistrict. Downstream from the Punakha valley is the Wangdiphodrang Dzong strategically located on a ridge (4430 feet) over looking the junction of the Sunkoshi Tangchu rivers; it is the gateway to central and eastern Bhutan. Legend has it that Mahakala, the protective deity of Bhutan appeared to tell Shabdrung of a prediction, saying; at top of a rocky spur where two rivers meet, at the place where a flock of raven will fly off in four directions, you will build the dzong. As prophesied by the deity the Shabdrung built the dzong in 1638. The Punakha and Wangdi valleys are also the winter home for many of the high altitude farmers who migrate with their cattle to the warm climate in the valley. The numerous paddy fields indicate the fertile conditions ideal for agriculture, farmers here often grow 2- 3 crops a year, rice and chili being important cash crops for the farmers.
Overnight in hotel.
Day29: After breakfast drive to Phuentsholling/Jaldapara(Bhutan-India Border)
The small modern town of phuentsholing in the south is the gateway to Bhutan. Headquarters of the Bank of Bhutan and the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan on top of a law hill at nearby Kharbandi a small Gompa.
Or public temple, reconstructed by Queen Phuentsholing Chhoden, grandmother of the present king looks out over the town and the surrounding plains.
The Amo Chuu, commonly known as the Torsha River, is a favourite spot for fisherman and picnickers. The jungles that lie close by teem with wild animals and birds, for here the traveler is in the heart of Bhutan's subtropical southern zone.
From Phuentsholing the road goes to north, over the southern foothills, through lush forested valleys and around the rigged north-south ridges of the inner of Thimpu and Paro. Hairpin corners on this breathtaking six hour drive are, to reassure the traveler, marked with tall, colourful sculptures of the Tashi Tagye, the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism.
Jaldapara is situated at the foothills of eastern Himalayas.
The river Torsha flows through this rain forest sanctuary which is mostly covered with tall grasses, the sanctuary encompasses luxuriant vegetation and a rich variety of wildlife. The Malangi River also flows nearby from east to west. Riding elephants and jeep safari is the only way to move inside this forest.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 30: Jaldapara Sightseeing and drive to Darjeeling
Early morning elephant ride/car safari inside the grassland of Jaldapara to watch the great Indian Rhino in their natural habitat. After breakfast we will drive to Darjeeling and will have Lunch on our way to Darjeeling. We will check in at hotel in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling is the summer capital of India, and land of infinite variety and charm. It will cater you a mix-experience of lively nature charming Himalayan people. Surrounded by Tea gardens; this little town faces some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Take a rest and then a walk around town to appreciate the new culture you are in.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 31: Darjeeling Best points Sightseeing
Very early morning of next day we will to visit Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and its amazing effects on the Mt. Kanchendzonga (Worlds 3rd highest peak), Visit Ghoom Monastery and Batashia Loop War Memorial while returning to the Hotel. After breakfast followed by Half day best point local sightseeing covering Japanese Temple, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja N. Zoological Garden, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tibetan Refugee Self-help Center and Rock side. We will go to visit Mall (Chowrasta) along with local Market to experience City Life.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 32: Darjeeling to Gangtok
Very early morning after breakfast we will drive to Gangtok (110kms/4hrs), at an altitude of 5500ft. Gangtok is the Capital of Sikkim is a beautiful and clean town promising of the best monasteries and landscapes. You can relax or do whatever you prefer in the evening time.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 33: Gangtok Local Sightseeing
Early morning we go to visit Hanuman Tak,Ganesh Tak,Tashi view Point(These three points are famous for watching beautiful early morning view on Mt Kanchenjunga).After breakfast we will go for best point sightseeing tour and around this capital city of Sikkim, covering Chortan, Stupa, Institute of Tibetology Institute of Handicrafts and handlooms , Monastery & Dharma Chakra Centre (24Kms/45Mins), the sect of the Kargyupa Sect – one of the 4 major Tibetan Buddhist Sect,& Flower Show.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 34: Excursion Trip to Tssomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
After breakfast we will have a trip to Tsomgo lake (12400ft), which is only 32 kms from Gangtok City where you can see the oval shaped lake is almost about 1Km long, and 15 mtrs deep. The lake is considered sacred by the local people. We will drive to 18 kms to the lake Baba Mandir, (temple of disappeared army personal) and back to Gangtok. You can go to visit downtown of Gangtok for shopping and experience the city life of Gangtok.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 35: Gangtok to Kalimpong
We will go to Kalimpong (85kms/03hrs) in the morning after we will have breakfast. Kalimpong is the another quiet hill station in Eastern Himalaya and famous for its Orchids & Nurseries and some of the rarest cacti & Orchids can be seen. Oak, Maple and Chestnut stretch up the ridge as far as the eye can reach. We will check in restaurant for Lunch and followed half day sightseeing in & around Kalimpong covering Durpin Dhara, Zong Dong Palri Fo-Brong Monastery and flower & Orchid Nursaries and Kalimpong Market.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 36: After breakfast transfer to Bagdogra (IXB) airport or Jalpaigudi Train station for your forward destination or connecting journey.
Tour End.

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