Nepal – Bhutan – two countries larger than life
India Travelix invites you to experience a unique Spiritual Journey in India. A Bhutan Tour combined with a Nepal Organized Tour is an unforgettable adventure. Larger than life, the high snow-capped peaks of the Himalaya offer landscapes of extraordinary beauty across dzongs, monasteries and lush green valleys strewn with prayer flags. In these deeply Buddhist lands, you will meet an exceptionally welcoming people, happy to live to the rhythm of a traditional culture with deeply rooted customs.
Welcome to the kingdom of "Gross National Happiness"! International flights.
DAY 1: The flight to Kathmandu
Fly to Nepal. Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to the hotel.
DAY 2: Kathmandu
Early in the morning, a scenic flight over the mountains with views of striking landscapes. Return to the hotel for breakfast, followed by a full-day tour of the Kathmandu Valley.
AM: Swayambhunath Stupa & Kathmandu Durbar Square. PM: Patan Durbar Square. Swayambhunath — Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple, since holy monkeys live in parts of the temple to the north-west. Located about 4 km (2.5 miles) away, this Buddhist stupa is said to be 2,000 years old. The stupa consists of a dome at the base. Above the dome, a cubical structure displays the eyes of the Buddha looking out in the four directions, with the word "unity" in the main Nepali dialect between them. Pentagonal toranas sit above each of the four sides, carved with statues. Behind and above the torana there are thirteen tiers. Above all the tiers there is a small space, above which the Gajur stands.
Kathmandu City — capital of the Kingdom of Nepal, Kathmandu is also known as Kantipur. Kathmandu owes its name to a structure on Durbar Square called Kasthamandap, said to have been built from the wood of a single tree. Here you will visit Durbar Square, the former palace of Nepali royalty. The complex has 50 temples spread across two quadrangles of Durbar Square. The outer quadrangle includes the Kasthamandap, the Kumari Ghar (temple of the living goddess) and the Shiva-Parvati temple, while the inner quadrangle includes the Hanuman Dhoka and the main palace. Newari Temples
Patan City
Patan Durbar Square, another royal palace complex of the Malla kings during the 17th century, sits in the centre of the city of Patan. It is regarded as the youngest of the kingdoms. The square and its surroundings are a very fine example of ancient Newari architecture. The city of Patan is considered a Buddhist city, and you can see many Buddhist shrines, stupas, monasteries and more. The palace has three main courtyards: the largest and oldest is Mul Chowk. To the west of the complex stand a dozen temples of different sizes and styles. The Krishna temple, widely revered on the occasion of its anniversary, the Bhimsen temple, the golden temple of Hiranya Varna Mahavihar and Sundari Chowk (the bathing complex of the Malla king) make up the architectural excellence of their time. Sundari Chowk, with the sunken bath of Tusha Hiti, holds outstanding wood, stone and metal carvings. Patan Durbar Square is also home to a Taleju Bhawani temple. Within this complex there is an incredible art museum displaying collections of Hinduism and Buddhism.
DAY 3: Kathmandu – Chitwan (180 km, 4-5 hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel, then we head for Chitwan, 180 km from Kathmandu, about 4 to 5 hours' drive, in the shadow of the Annapurna Himalaya. After checking in at the hotel and freshening up, you will be briefed on the nature programmes by the nature guide. We then set off for activities. There will be a guided village walk and a stroll along the banks of the Rapti River to admire the charming sunsets over the subtropical jungle. Overnight in Chitwan.
DAY 4: Chitwan
Breakfast at the resort. AM / PM: Jungle activities according to the lodge programme.
Jungle activities — At the foot of the Himalaya, Chitwan is one of the few undisturbed areas of the Terai region that once stretched across the foothills of India and Nepal, with its very rich flora and fauna. One of the last populations of the one-horned Asian rhinoceros lives in Chitwan National Park, which is also one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger. Here you will take an elephant safari to see the rhinos living in the park and enjoy guided walks through it. Chitwan is home to 50 different animal species such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears and more, and 450 different bird species, along with one-horned rhinos, Asian elephants, crocodiles, marsh muggers, gharials, barking deer, spotted deer and many other animals seen in the jungle of Royal Chitwan National Park. Lunch at the resort. In the evening, dinner with a cultural programme by the ethnic tribes, featuring their stick dance and tribal drums. Overnight in Chitwan.
DAY 5: Chitwan – Pokhara (190 km, about 4-5 hrs' drive)
Early breakfast at the hotel and drive to Pokhara, about 4 to 5 hours. We go deeper into the mountains, following the rivers for much of the day. Pokhara, also nicknamed the City of Lakes, is not only one of the finest places in Nepal but one of the most beautiful on the planet. The city offers magnificent views of Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, the five peaks of the Annapurna and others. Pokhara is also the gateway for trekking in the Annapurna region. The rest of the day is free to relax, or you can soak up the setting, or drop in on the local pubs, bars or shops. Overnight in Pokhara.
DAY 6: Pokhara
AM: Sarangkot. PM: Davis Falls, Bindabasini temple, Fewa Lake. Sarangkot — from Pokhara, Sarangkot is the most popular tourist destination, from where you can enjoy magnificent views over the Pokhara valley and the stunning mountains. It sits at an altitude of 1,592 m. This hill lies to the north of Pokhara and overlooks the valley and Fewa Lake. It is just a short, scenic hike through the small villages and jungle from Pokhara's main tourist area, or a 30-minute drive to get there. Sarangkot is a beautiful village known for its sunrise. On a clear day you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Himalaya — Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), Manaslu (8,163 m) and Annapurna (8,091 m), and in the middle of the Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre (6,993 m). The best sunrise, the beautiful green hills, the rice terraces and the magnificent view over the Pokhara valley can all be seen from Sarangkot hill.
Pokhara lies 198 km west of Kathmandu, at the foot of the incredible Annapurna Himal. Pokhara has become a major tourist centre in Nepal. It is the most visited tourist destination in the country. Pokhara is famous for its magnificent views of the central Himalaya, Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Manaslu, Davis Falls, the Bindabasini temple, Fewa Lake, the Bat cave and many other attractions that have made Pokhara's reputation. The city of Pokhara offers a combination of nature and culture with a distinct character. Pokhara is also known as the starting and finishing point of the famous Annapurna and Jomsom treks. In terms of climate, Pokhara is pleasant all year round.
This morning, wake at dawn to watch the sunrise. When the weather is clear, the view of the Annapurnas is magnificent. After breakfast, visit the Bindabasini temple and three caves. Pokhara is a city set on Phewa Lake, where we will take a boat ride and, weather permitting, we will head to Begnas Lake. Overnight in Pokhara.
DAY 7: Pokhara - Bandipur (80 km, 1-2 hrs)
Lunch and departure for Bandipur. Bandipur is a small village perched in the heart of the Nepali mountains that has beautifully preserved its Newari culture. Its winding lanes are lined with traditional houses. The town was an important stop on the India-Tibet trade route until it was bypassed by the Prithvi Highway, a road built in the 1960s. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 8: Bandipur - Nagarkot (80 km, 1-2 hrs)
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, return to Kathmandu and then on to Nagarkot. Nagarkot lies 32 km east of Kathmandu, about an hour and a half by road. It is a world-renowned hill station offering breathtaking views of the majestic Himalaya, rolling hills, deep valleys and a lush pine forest in a picturesque rural setting. The panoramic view of the main peaks takes in Everest, Ganesh, Langtang, Dorje Lakpa and Gauri Shankar. When conditions are clear, you can also see the Annapurna range from Nagarkot. There is an excellent view of the snow-capped peaks of the eastern Nepal Himalaya (weather permitting), as well as a spectacular sunrise. Although Mount Everest is far from Nagarkot, it can be seen from the Nagarkot tower. The road to Nagarkot is the gateway to Everest and the other Himalayan mountains. Overnight in Nagarkot.
DAY 9: Nagarkot - Kathmandu
After breakfast, sightseeing. AM: Bhaktapur Durbar Square. PM: Pashupatinath temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon: Bhaktapur, about 20 km east of the Kathmandu valley, is also known as the "City of Devotees", "City of Culture" and "Living Heritage". Bhaktapur is one of the oldest but smallest towns of the Newar community and is dotted with pagodas and religious shrines. You will follow the ancient trade route between India and Tibet. Also known as Bhadgaon, this place was founded in the 9th century and has the shape of a conch shell. The town sits at an altitude of 4,600 feet. In Bhadgaon you will visit Durbar Square, with its array of temples overlooked by the 55-window palace built by King Bhupatindra Malla. The Nyatapola temple, also built by King Bhupatindra Malla, is the finest example of the pagoda style. It stands on five terraces, on each of which sits a pair of figures: two famous men, two elephants, two lions, two griffins and two goddesses. Weather permitting, a visit to the Thangka painting museum can also be arranged.
Boudhanath Stupa — Boudhanath embodies Tibetan Buddhism. It lies 8 km east of Kathmandu and was built by King Man Licchavi in the 5th century AD. Its colossal, ancient stupa is considered one of the largest in the world and was built on a stepped octagonal base, inlaid with alcoves for its teachings. After the Chinese invasion in 1959, thousands of Tibetans came to this famous Buddhist chaitya and revitalized the stupa. The stupa is surrounded by various temples, or "gompas". The atmosphere of the whole place lights up with zest as the scent of incense drifts through the air. You can hear the chanting of the monks and the creak of the prayer wheels as you walk around the base. It is one of the favourite sites of pilgrims and tourists in the country.
Pashupatinath temple is one of the four most important religious sites in Asia for devotees of Shiva. Pashupatinath, dedicated to Shiva the Destroyer, is the holiest Hindu pilgrimage site in Nepal. Although the Pashupatinath temple was only built in the 5th century and later renovated by the Malla kings, the sacred site has existed since the beginning of the millennium. A gold-plated roof, four silver doors and wood carvings of the finest quality decorate the Pashupatinath pagoda temple. Temples dedicated to several other Hindu and Buddhist deities surround the Pashupatinath temple. Nearby stands the Guheshwori temple, dedicated to Sati Devi, the wife of Shiva. Behind the temple runs the Bagmati River. On the banks of the Bagmati are raised platforms used as cremation sites for Hindus. Only Hindus are allowed into the courtyard of Pashupatinath. The temple begins to fill with worshippers around 4 a.m. every morning. However, the top of the hill east of the temple is the ideal spot for the non-Hindu visitor to see the temple, its rich surroundings and, below on the banks of the Bagmati, the ghats where the dead are cremated.
DAY 10: Kathmandu - Paro (flight) - Thimphu
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in the Himalaya. Flying along the Himalayan range, you will be treated to fascinating views and an exhilarating descent, as the plane slaloms between peaks over 5,000 metres before dropping into the Paro valley at 2,500 metres. The first gift Bhutan gives you as you step off the plane is the fresh, pure mountain air. Welcome by our guide. Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, with a stop at Chuzom, at the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers, which is adorned with three styles of stupa — Tibetan, Nepali and Bhutanese. Check in at the hotel and free evening to get to know the sights of the city of happiness.
DAY 11: Thimphu
Breakfast. Departure to visit the Thimphu valley and the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum, a fascinating testament to Bhutan's material culture and living traditions. Visit the largest stupa in Bhutan. Drive to Buddha Point to see the largest Buddha statue, where from the heights of the hill the view over the city of Thimphu is extraordinary. Free time in the evening to wander through the Handicrafts Emporium and the local craft bazaar, and discover traditional Bhutanese art such as weaving, embroidery, thangka paintings, masks, ceramics, slate and wood carvings and jewellery. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 12: Thimphu - Gangtey (150 km, about 5.5 hrs' drive)
Lunch. Drive to Gangtey via the Dochu La pass (3,080 m) and the Phobjikha valley, through forests of oak and rhododendron trees. On a clear day, the peaks of the Himalaya are clearly visible and striking. The road follows the picturesque Dang Chhu before climbing through bamboo and oak forests. Arrival and check-in at the hotel. Walk in the valley and visit the very old Gangtey monastery.
DAY 13: Gangtey
Today you will enjoy the hike along the Gangtey Nature Trail. The Gangtey valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan. A few kilometres beyond the Gangtey monastery, on the valley floor, lies the village of Phobjikha. In winter, this place becomes the refuge of the black-necked crane, which migrates from the arid plains of Tibet to spend the winter in a milder climate. Phobjikha lies on the edge of the Black Mountain National Park. Free evening and overnight at the hotel.
DAY 14: Gangtey – Punakha (70 km, 3-4 hrs' drive)
Lunch. On the way, a short walk to reach the fertility temple, or Chimi Lhakhang. The trail leading to the temple takes about 30 minutes and crosses the farmland of the village of Lobesa. As you walk, you will have the chance to see the farmers at work.
Chimi means "No Dog". The 15th-century Buddhist master Drukpa Kunley (the Divine Madman) reached the spot chasing the demon of Dochola, which had taken the form of a dog. It was here, on this dramatic hill, that the madman caught the demon, killed it, buried it and built a black stupa as a symbol over the evil. He left a piece of ivory in the shape of a phallus and declared: "Later, on this hill that resembles the breast of a young woman, a temple will be built, and this piece will represent me blessing men and women." Indeed, a master known as Ngawang Chogyal, a cousin-brother of Drukpa Kunley himself, built a temple on this hill near the black stupa. To this day, the temple houses a monastic school, and the piece of ivory is used to bless people who come seeking blessings for fertility, prosperity, long life and protection. The temple is known as the Fertility Temple. Evening walk in the town of Punakha. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 15: Punakha
Visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers that still serves as the winter residence of the monks. Later in the day, an excursion to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. This beautiful hike leads to the majestic Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in a changing world. The chorten dominates the upper Punakha valley with breathtaking views over the Mo Chhu and the peaks of Gasa. Return for lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, visit the villages of Talo and Nobgang. A walk along the winding, hilly roads to the village of Talo, which is known for its beauty and cleanliness, with its vegetable and flower gardens. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 16: Punakha – Jakar
Departure for Jakar, crossing the many valleys that make up Bhutan. Along the way we will visit the Ta Dzong at Trongsa, converted into a museum of Buddhist art. Dinner. Continue on towards Jakar over the Pele La pass, at 3,300 metres' altitude and a natural border between eastern and western Bhutan. The landscapes of the Bhutanese hinterland, made up of pastures and forests, will enchant us. Check in at the hotel. Supper and overnight at the hotel.
DAY 17: Jakar
We will begin the day with a visit to the Kurje Lhakhang temple complex. It contains the imprint of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated in this place. Jambay Lhakhang, for its part, is recognized as one of the 108 temples built in a single night to subdue a demoness. Lunch with a local family — an ideal chance to watch the preparation of Bhutanese dishes and to demystify the clever seasonings that make up this simple but flavourful cuisine. Then we will take a short walk to the Tamshing Lhakhang temple, where we can admire the paintings of the 1,000 buddhas. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
DAY 18: Jakar – Paro (flight)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight to Paro. The Paro valley is full of rich culture and picturesque landscapes. It is home to many temples and monasteries. Mount Chomolhari (7,314 m) reigns at the northern end of the valley, and its glacial waters plunge into deep gorges to form the Pa Chhu (Paro River). Here are the most fertile valleys of the Kingdom, with their red rice grown in terraced paddies.
On arrival, check in at the hotel and lunch. In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong; this watchtower was built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the inter-valley wars of the 17th century. Ta Dzong was inaugurated as the National Museum of Bhutan in 1968. Today it houses a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings and exquisite Bhutanese stamps.
Continue the visit with Rinpung Dzong, crossing a traditional covered bridge called Nemi Zam. A walk along an inlaid stone path offers a breathtaking view of the Dzong's architecture. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 19: Paro
Walking excursion to Taktshang monastery. This monastery is the icon of Bhutan. It is one of the most famous monasteries in the country, perched on the side of a cliff 900 m above the floor of the Paro valley. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated in this monastery, hence its name "Tiger's Nest". This site was recognized as a sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, and is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of the building, but this Bhutanese jewel has now regained its original splendour.
Along the way, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in the Kingdom, dating from the 7th century. The master of the Dalai Lama lived here for many years and passed away here. His ashes rest beside an immense statue of Guru Rinpoche. This Lhakhang complex is made up of two temples. The first was built in the 7th century, and in 1968 the Queen Mother of Bhutan built the second in the same original design.
Arrival in Paro, exploration of this charming town and free time. Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 20: Paro - Departure
Breakfast and transfer to Paro airport for the flight to your next destination.
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Bhutan Tour
This package includes:
This package does not include:
BHUTAN VISA – In order to process the Bhutan visa, we need a clear and legible colour copy of the passport (the page containing the passport number and photo, in JPEG or PDF format) at least 30 days before the date of entry into Bhutan. The remaining validity of the passport must be at least 6 months from the date of entry into Bhutan (excluding the month of travel).