Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour

Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal! Upon your arrival, an Asian Heritage Treks & Travel representative will greet you at the airport with your nameplate. You will then be promptly transferred to the hotel. En route to the hotel, you will pass by the Open Cremation Place (Pashupatinath Temple), the Royal Palace Museum, known as Narayanhity, and the Garden of Dreams before arriving in Thamel. Your hotel will be located downtown in the Touristic Hub. Our representative will assist you and go over your travel itinerary. You’ll have ample time to explore the streets of Thamel.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites & Spa or similar

After breakfast, our tour guide will pick you up along with the driver and a vehicle. Firstly, you will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO world heritage site where you can admire the typical wood-carved temples and buildings reflecting the ancient Kathmandu city. Following that, we shall head towards Swyambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Kathmandu city. Next, you will explore the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the biggest pilgrimage sites for Hindu devotees in Southeast Asia. Additionally, we can visit another nearby pilgrimage site, Guweyswori Temple.Lastly, our itinerary will take us to Boudhanath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This Stupa, constructed in 600 A.D., is a unique symbol of Buddhism worldwide. We will thoroughly explore the area around Boudhanath Stupa. Once we have completed our sightseeing tour, you can return to the hotel and relax.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites & Spa or similar

On the third day of the Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour, you will take a flight to Lhasa. Upon your arrival, our Tibet agent will warmly welcome you at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA). You will then be transferred to your hotel by a private vehicle. Lhasa is located on the north bank of the Kyi-chu River, known as the “Place of the Gods” in Tibet. Spend the rest of the day allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in Lhasa.

After breakfast, we started our exploration of Lhasa. Our first stop is the stunning Potala Palace, a 17th-century architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views of the entire city. The private quarters of the Dalai Lama within the palace are also fascinating to explore. Following our visit to Potala, we head to Norbulingka, known as the Summer Palace, which boasts the largest man-made garden in Tibet.
Our next destination is the Tibet Traditional Hospital, a renowned center for treating, training, research, and producing Tibetan medicine.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in Lhasa.

After breakfast, we shall explore Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Jokhang Temple, and the Barkhor Bazaar. Drepung Monastery, constructed in the 14th century, holds the distinction of being the world’s largest monastic institution. It is believed to have provided refuge to approximately 10,000 monks in the past, but in recent times, there has been a considerable decline, with only a few hundred remaining. Sera Monastery stands as a well-preserved religious site characterized by whitewashed walls and gilded roofs. One of its main attractions is the daily monk debates held from 3-5 p.m., excluding Sundays. Jokhang Temple represents another significant sacred location in Tibet, revealing profound mysteries of Tibetan Buddhism. You can behold the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. We then continue our exploration in Barkhor Bazaar (the market). With its outdoor stalls, shops, and bustling crowds of pilgrims, it serves as the heart of Lhasa.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in Lhasa.

On the sixth day of the Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour, you will drive from Lhasa to Shigatse. En route, you’ll pass over the Gampala pass (4790 m) and get a chance to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-Tso Lake (4400 m), surrounded by numerous snow-capped mountains, offering spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191 m), the highest peak near Lhasa. Further along the way, we’ll pass by the Korola Glacier on the roadside. At Manak Dam Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to hang prayer flags at Simila Mountain Pass. Continuing our journey, we will reach Gyantse, historically Tibet’s third-largest city (following Lhasa and Shigatse). In Gyantse, we’ll explore the famous Pelkor Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum while enjoying a panoramic view of Gyangtse Fortress. After some time, we’ll finally arrive in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. You will spend the night in Shigatse.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel at Shigatse.

Today, on the seventh day of the Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour, we’ll drive back to Lhasa via Gyantse, where you can stand on the viewing platform and admire the vast Yalong Riverbed. Upon arriving in Lhasa, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel in Lhasa.

During the eighth day of the Nepal Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour, a flight will take you from Lhasa to Kathmandu. While en route, you’ll have the opportunity to behold the majestic mountains from high above in the sky and savor the deep blue expanse adorned with cotton clouds. Upon your arrival at the airport, our representative will be there to greet you and provide transportation to your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites and Spa or similar

Today, our guide will greet you and then chauffeur you to Patan for a delightful sightseeing experience. In Patan, your itinerary includes visits to heritage sites like the Krishna Temple and the Patan Durbar Square. Following that, you’ll explore the Patan Museum, delving deeper into the rich history of this city and its monarchs. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the Golden Temple and the Banglamukhi Temple, which are major attractions for both Hindu and Buddhist devotees.
Afterward, we’ll head to Bhaktapur, where you’ll be enthralled by the remarkable architecture. Take in the charm of the antique wood-carved buildings that grace Bhaktapur’s streets. Roam the vicinity and make your way to the Nyatapola Temple, Nepal’s largest temple. While you’re here, consider participating in a traditional pottery-making class at Pottery Square. You’ll receive guidance on crafting and decorating pottery with intricate designs and inscriptions.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites and Spa or similar

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport by flight, our office representative will be there to receive you and arrange for your transfer to Thimphu. As you depart from Paro, you will be treated to a spectacular view of Everest and Kanchenjunga. Additionally, the awe-inspiring sights of the sacred Chomolhari and JichuDrakey of Bhutan will captivate you. Feel free to explore Thimphu’s charming streets at your leisure or unwind in the comfort of your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel at Thimpu.

After breakfast, we will explore the local market, which opens four days a week (specifically, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Our itinerary also includes a visit to the handmade paper mill and the School of Arts and Crafts, where students engage in learning 13 different forms of art. Following that, we’ll make our way to the Memorial Chorten (temple), constructed in honor of the late 3rd King’s memory. Our next stop will be at Changangkha Lhakhang, which stands as the oldest temple in the valley. We’ll also have the opportunity to see the enclosure where the national animal is housed and visit the Zilukha Nunnery.
Accommodation: Overnight in a Hotel at Thimpu.

Following breakfast, proceed through Dochula Pass at 3050 m. When the weather is clear, you can savor the breathtaking view of Bhutan’s highest mountains. Following a brief tea break, we will proceed to the sub-tropical Punakha. In the afternoon, explore the nunnery and then make your way down to your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel at Punakha.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, our first destination will be Kichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest temples in the country. Next, we’ll explore the historic Drukgyal Dzong, a magnificent fortress, and embark on a hike to reach Tiger’s Nest, the most significant temple in the nation, perched on a stunning granite cliff. Later in the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Paro.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel at Paro.

In the morning, after breakfast, you will fly to Kathmandu, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains from the window seat. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our guide will assist you, and then you will take a flight to Pokhara. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you will check in at the hotel and have a relaxing evening. If you wish, you can explore the streets of Pokhara to enjoy the rest of your evening.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel Crystal Palace or similar

Today, you will be exploring the picturesque town of Pokhara. Just a few minute’s drive away, you’ll find the enchanting Davi’s Falls, which is formed by the outflow of Pardi Khola from Phewa Lake. This mesmerizing cascade disappears into a mysterious cavern in the ground, creating magnificent sprays.

Another point of interest is the Seti Gandaki River, which meanders through the heart of the town. Its milky color is due to the limestone in the soil. At certain locations, the Seti Gandaki flows entirely underground. You can also explore various Tibetan settlements near Pokhara, where you can purchase handicrafts, Tibetan carpets, and more. Additionally, our itinerary includes visits to Davi’s Waterfall, Gupteswor Mahadev, and the International Mountain Museum.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel Crystal Palace  or similar

Today, your journey begins with an early drive to Sarangkot. Here, you can capture the tranquil and magical view of the city before sunrise. The first rays of sunlight casting their glow upon the mountains in the background are truly magnificent. Furthermore, Sarangkot offers panoramic views of the Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and other stunning peaks.

Afterward, we will embark on a boating excursion at Fewa Lake and then hike towards Peace Stupa. Pokhara Shanti Stupa, a remarkable Buddhist pagoda-style monument, rests atop Anadu Hill in Kaski. The boat trip, which takes you from Pumdi Bhumdi Bay to Phewa Ghat across Phewa Lake, lasts for approximately half an hour. This provides a wonderful opportunity to relish the sight of Himalayan peaks reflecting on the water. Additionally, it offers a relaxing conclusion to a day of hiking and a panoramic visit to the World Peace Pagoda.
Accommodation: Overnight in Hotel Crystal Palace or similar

Today, we’ll take you to Lumbini, where you can explore the SACRED GARDEN featuring the Mayadevi temple, depicting the birth of Lord Buddha. There, you’ll also find the Ashoka pillar marking the exact place of his birth. Additionally, you can visit the Sakyan Tank, where Mayadevi, the mother of Buddha, is believed to have taken a dip before giving birth. Lumbini boasts numerous remnants of monasteries and Chaityas, each with its own unique history, spanning centuries.
Accommodation: Overnight in Sakya Guest House or similar

Today, we shall begin our day with an early morning visit to Lumbini. There, you will have the opportunity to explore the German Monastery, the Chinese Monastery, the Thai Monastery, and the International Nuns’ residence. Additionally, don’t miss the magnificent Golden Temple. Moreover, the Peaceful Monastic Zone showcases the profound teachings of Lord Buddha, providing insight into the diverse cultures within Lumbini’s various monastic areas. Following the completion of your sightseeing adventure, you will continue your journey to Chitwan. You are expected to arrive in Chitwan during the early evening, where you can proceed to check in at your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight in Rain Forest Resort or similar

Today, our first adventure takes us on a walk through the jungle of Chitwan. After that, we’ll dive deep into the forest in a local jeep to track the footprints of the tiger. Additionally, be prepared for a glimpse of the one-horned rhino, Asian elephant, Spotted Deer (Chital), Barking Deer, Hog Deer, Samber, Swamp Deer, Black Buck, Bull, Wild Boar, Wild Dog, Leopard, and many other wild animals. Following the jungle safari, we’ll embark on a canoe trip along the Rapti River, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe various bird species.
Accommodation: Overnight in Rain Forest Resort or similar

Today, we shall drive back to Kathmandu. Afterward, feel free to stroll through the streets of Thamel. You may choose to purchase gifts as tokens of love for your friends and family, or alternatively, take some time to relax in the hotel and prepare your bags. This day marks the conclusion of the Nepal Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites and Spa or similar 

Your trip will come to an end today. First, you will be advised and assisted with your onward travel arrangements. Then, we shall transfer you to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. You will reach the airport 3 hours before your flight schedule.
Have a safe journey onward.