Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan Highlights Tour

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, you will explore two ancient cities near Kathmandu: Patan and Bhaktapur.

In Patan, your itinerary includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Next, explore the Patan Museum to delve deeper into the history of this city and the reign of its kings. Then, proceed to the Golden Temple, a significant attraction for both Hindus and Buddhists, as well as the Banglamukhi Temple. After visiting Patan you will head towards Bhaktapur; it is the city that was the capital of the Greater Malla Kingdom until the 15th century. Bhaktapur is a treasure trove of artistic creations displayed in the temples and monuments of the city. Now this square is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is managed by the Archaeological Department of Nepal and Bhaktapur municipality. Bhaktapur is known as the most ancient city. Durbar Square used to be the home place of royal families. There are basically four different squares; Taumadhi Square, Durbar Square, Pottery Square and Dattatreya Square. You’ll explore the ancient architecture, intricate woodwork, and vibrant culture of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath temple, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, Peacock Window, Golden Gate, fifty-five windowed palace, Taleju bell, Dattatreya temple, Vatsala Temple, Chyasilin Mandap, are the major attraction of Bhaktapur.

After completing your sightseeing, return to Kathmandu and enjoy some well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: Overnight in Yatri Suites and Spa or similar.

Before three hours your flight scheduled time Asian Heritage representative will drop off you at Tribhuwan International Airport to catch a flight to Paro. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport our office representative will welcome you and transport you to Thimphu. From Paro, you can enjoy spectacular views of Everest and Kanchenjunga. You can also enjoy amazing panoramas of Bhutan’s sacred Chomolhari and Jichu Drakey. You may also venture on your own to explore Thimphu’s streets or relax in your hotel.
Accommodation: Overnight in a hotel at Thimpu.

After breakfast drive to Punakha (4298 ft.)/ Wangdue, on the way Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (3150 mts.). to view the higher Himalayas. Arrive at Punakha and check in at the hotel. After noon visit Punakha Dzong – built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungtang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. After that take a short and easy walk to visit the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest bridges in Bhutan. Evening free for leisure.
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Accommodation: an overnight stay in a hotel in Punakha.

After breakfast drive to Paro (7,483 ft.) On arrival check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Ta Dzong – National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Rinpung Dzong – Meaning “fortress of the heap of jewels”. The Dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro. Evening free for leisure.

Accommodation: an overnight stay in a hotel in Paro

After breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, 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 is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place and visited by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal in 1646 and 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 now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendor.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a hotel in Paro.

In the morning, after breakfast, you will fly to Kathmandu. You can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains from the window seat. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our guide will assist you. Your Drive onward to Pokhara will then be managed, you will head towards Pokhara, located in the northwest direction of Kathmandu, which is approximately 210 kilometers away. Upon your arrival in Pokhara, check in at the hotel and take some time to rest. Later in the afternoon, you can explore the charming lakeside streets of Pokhara and enjoy the serene beauty of Phewa Lake.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in the Hotel Shaara or a similar one.

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 you will head towards Lumbini, located in the Southwest direction of Pokhara, which is approximately 160 kilometers away. Lumbini is the most important Buddhist pilgrimage site the place where Buddha was born and attracts Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Sakya Guest House or a similar one.

Today we commence sightseeing in and around the actual birthplace of Lord Buddha. You will visit the sacred garden, where you can explore the Ashoka pillar, the small pond Pushkarini, the Maya Devi temple, and the remaining meditation site, along with the residential monastery for monks. Following that, you’ll have the opportunity to tour some of the monastic establishments in the monastery zone.

After sightseeing in Lumbini Continue your journey towards Chitwan, situated 150 kilometers from Lumbini. Along the route, you’ll come across numerous small shops and a mini-market. As you approach Chitwan, you’ll notice the forest becoming denser. Upon your arrival in Chitwan, check into your hotel and take a rest. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to attend the Tharu cultural program show. Enjoy the performance, and then return to your hotel.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Rain Forest or a similar one.

Start your full-day sightseeing tour. You’ll embark on a Jungle Safari by Jeep. Enter the community forest section to observe the One-Horned Rhino and various other wild animals like wild boar, deer, and leopard. Afterward, cross the Rapti River to reach the outskirts of the main national park area. If luck is on your side, you might even spot the Royal Bengal Tiger in the highland area where the bushes can reach up to 5-6 feet. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to witness wild elephants and other fascinating creatures. Once you’ve completed your jungle safari, return to the hotel for lunch. Later, take a guided tour of the Tharu village and enjoy a canoeing adventure on the Rapti River. Here, you can observe the Marsh Mugger and Gharial crocodiles resting by the banks of the Rapti River in Chitwan. Return to the hotel to relax after your sightseeing tour.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Rain Forest or a similar one.

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.