Astonishing Nepal with Bhutan Tour

Overview

Exploring the stunning birthplace of Buddha and taking a trip to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, where the Dragon King rules supreme, there is no better trip to combine the two major landlocked Himalayan Kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan. The last two remaining countries in the Himalayas where a king still rules over his people, this amazing experience is second to none.

Starting in the beautiful Kathmandu Valley, and the amazing temples and monasteries of the area, as well as the busy and chaotic center of the most exotic city in Asia, this trip gives you an awesome experience of the true Nepalese people and culture. Visit some of the most sacred sites in Nepal, and experience the unique Buddhist-influenced Hindu religion of one of the world’s top mountain destinations.

Across the Indian State of Sikkim lies the last true Shangri-La in the mighty Himalayas, the Kingdom of the Dragon King, Bhutan. Known as the Land of the Thunder dragon, this ancient and formerly isolated kingdom offers up a completely different experience of a truly Buddhist nation. With a policy of Gross National happiness, vast tracts of this beautiful country are protected, giving you the perfect unspoiled wilderness of high mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and beautiful valleys. And with the peaceful atmosphere of the style of living, there is no better way to end this tour.

Detail Itinerary

In the morning we start our sightseeing by visiting Durbar Square. Durbar Square is the spiritual heart of Kathmandu. The old royal palace at the centre of the city was surrounded by temples and other important buildings. After Durbar Square we will visit Swayambhunath. The stupa at Swayambhunath is the most important and oldest site of Buddhist worship in Nepal. Swayambhunath Stupa is famous for the eyes of Buddha which seem to observing the world from all 4 directions. After Swayambhunath we visit Bodnath. Bodnath is the largest Stupa of Nepal, its massive mandala makes it one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal and the world. The influx of large populations of refugees from Tibet has seen the construction of over 50 gompas around Boudha. Now we proceed to the temple city of Pashupatinath which is Nepal' s most important Hindu pilgrim site on the banks of the Bagmati river. The temple of Pashupatinath is dedicated to god Shiva. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning flight over the Himalayas on request (250 USD per person).Embark on a mountain flight in Nepal for a panoramic encounter with the highest peaks on earth. The plane departs from Kathmandu and flies alongside the Himalayas to give you eye-level views of snow-capped peaks before brining you back in just one hour. After breakfast travel to Patan. Patan was the second largest town in the valley. The temple architecture here gave this city fame to be unique and most beautiful. The square is full of ancient places, temples, and shrines noted for their exquisite carvings. The former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. After Patan we proceed to Bhaktapur, the third biggest city of the valley. Bhaktapur has preserved its mediaeval character better than Patan. Overnight at the hotel.


1 Tachogang Lhakhang Bridge On the way, stop at Tachoggang, a beautiful, historical place on the other side of the Paro River. Decorated with numerous prayer flags, the iron bridge makes for a beautiful walk towards the temple. Apart from the temple, the bridge is of great importance and is steeped in history. 


2 Simtokha Dzong Five miles from Thimphu, on a lofty ridge, stands Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in the Kingdom. Simtokha's strategic location affords a view of the entire Thimphu valley. The central tower has 12 sides, unlike any other fortress in Bhutan. The carvings on the walls in the courtyard are amazing.  


3 Dordenma Buddha Marvel at the majesty of the tallest seated Buddha statue, rising to an impressive height of 51.5 meters, located in Kuensel Phodrang. 


4 Wangdi-tse Monastery Take a journey through the tastes and smells of the dense pine forest along the Thimphu Valley leading to the magnificent Wangditse Temple. It's an hour and a half - an easy hike through local apple farms and houses, which can be exciting for kids. The trail continues through oaks, pines and rhododendrons that accompany you throughout the hike, sometimes opening up to views of Dordenma Buddha, Tashichoe Dzong and the Thimphu Valley. From Wangditse Temple you can return the same way and go to Dechenphodrang Monastery or go down to Dechenphodrang Monastery where you can meet young monks.

 

5 500th Anniversary Farmers' Market Thimphu Weekend Market, a bustling maze near Wang Chhu, is bustling with regional vendors from Thursday to Sunday. Delight your senses with aromatic incense, exotic spices and unique finds such as yak legs with attached hooves. From dried fish to local honey, the stalls offer a sensual feast. Don't miss the red rice cereal and kapche section. The bustling atmosphere spills out onto the streets, creating a vibrant market scene. Cross the traditional bridge to discover a nearby handicraft market only available on weekends. An unforgettable mix of flavors and culture awaits you!

1 Pangri Zampa Monastery Drive to the northern end of the Thimphu Valley, taking in a rural trek off the beaten track, visit the Buddhist Astrological Academy at Pangrizampa and the 21 Tara Devi Temple in the peaceful area next door, before trekking to Dodeydra Monastery. If you are interested in Buddhist astrology, you can consult with a monk there.

 

2 Dodeydrak Buddhist Monastery Begin your journey with a soul-stirring trek to the sacred hill of Dodeydra Monastery. As we climb, we are greeted by breathtaking views and a deep sense of peace that permeates the surroundings. Immerse yourself in the sacred land of Dodeydra Goempa, where you can meet and pray alongside the monks. Pray a quiet evening prayer and eat lunch with the monks. If you feel like it, engage in a Dharma discussion with the monks. Embark on an extraordinary journey of connection and spirituality. During your stay, you can enjoy the following activities: Receive a blessing from the monks with a special transformational/purification agent.


1 Dodeydrak Buddhist Monastery Wake up early to the sounds of chirping birds and the morning bell calling the monks to their morning prayers. Start your day by attending morning prayers with the monks at Dodeydra Monastery and then head back to Thimphu.


2 Dochula Pass On the way to Punakha, stop at the Dochu La Pass at 3,100m, home to 108 Buddhist temples. If the sky is clear, the towering Himalayan peaks to the north-east will be revealed in all their glory. Raise prayer flags at one of the highest points .


3 Chimi Lhakhang Temple Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, about a five-minute walk from Sopsokha village. Prepare to be greeted by paintings of an unassuming sight on your way to the site. The temple is also popularly known as the Temple of the Divine Mad Monk or the Fertility Temple.


4. Punakha Dzong Visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built on the junction of two rivers. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and Punakha Dzong still serves as the winter residence of the central order of monks. In 1907, the first king of Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck, was crowned here. The fortress has survived fires, earthquakes, and floods over the centuries. The last flood, which occurred in October 1994, caused massive damage to the fortress but miraculously saved its most sacred statue.

You will be dropped off to the airport. End of the tour.

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