Covers 3 country- Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan
Beijing - Tibet - Lhasa - Nepal Kathmandu - Bhutan Paro - Thimphu - Punakha - Paro - Bangkok / Delhi
Trip Facts
Duration: 16 Days
Accommodation: Hotels and resorts
Activities: Cultural touring, Small hikes, Village visits, Attend local festivals
Trip Grading: Moderate
Trip Type: Popular
Group Size: 5-9 pax  ( minimum 5 pax need for tibet travel permit - we have already 4 people confirmed )
Start From: Beijing / Lhasa 
Finish In: Paro / Bangkok 
Highest Altitude:12,001 ft (3,650 Meter)

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing 15 days

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi 14 days

Trips Highlights

- Potala Palace and Norbulingkha Palace of Dalai Lamas
- Great Gelugpa Monasteries of Drepung and Sera
- Ancient Jorkhang Temple and Barkhor Street- Samye Monastery, ancient Tradruk Temple and Yambulakhang Palace-the first Tibetan building.
- Durbar Squares of Three medieval Malla Principalities of Nepal.
- Pashupatinath-the holiest Hindu Temple of Nepal and Boudhanath-the largest Buddhist Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa-the two thousand years old Buddhist shrine.
- Mountain views from Nagarkot and Dhulikhel Hill Resorts
- At Paro-Ta Dzong, Paro Rinpung Dzong, Takstang Monastery, Drugyel Dzong etc
- At Thimphu-Tasicho Dzong, Nunnery, Takin Zoo, Arts and Craft School, Paper factory, textile factory etc.
- At Punakha and Wangud Valleys-Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lakhang and Wangdue Dzong
- Local festivals

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi

Flexible Itinerary- Join American group

Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan Tour
This Tibet, Nepal & Bhutan the tour of Himalayas includes highlights of Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan. You will be exploring the culture, religion as well as art and crafts of these three Himalayan countries.

Day 01: Arrival in Beijing 

Airport pick up and transfer to hotel. Overnight in Beijing at Hotel .  Today we hand over your original Tibet travel  permit  which you need before flying to lhasa.  

Day 02: Fly to Lhasa
Transfer to airport, Upon arrival in Lhasa airport, we are met by Tibetan Guide and we are transferred to our hotel in the city. Today, we just take easy to cope with the effects of the altitude.Free afternoon for complete rest/ to acclimatize to altitude.Overnight in Lhasa

Lhasa: Located at the foot of Mount Gephel, Lhasa is the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China, and is a city that has captivated the fascination of the west for centuries. Lhasa is basically famous for it is the traditional seat of the Dalai Lama and is a place that is revered by every Tibetan. In the 7th century, a powerful and visionary king called Songtsen Gampo conquered many tribes, united Tibet and moved the capital from Yarlung to Lhasa. Apart from the amazing monasteries that surrounds the city as well as the bustling tourist friendly Barkhor Street, it is the Potala palace that captivates the mind, the eye and the soul. The Potala palace is perched on the top of the Red Hill and dominates the skyline. It was built by Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. Later on, the palace became the residence of the Dalai Lamas. It still holds items like murals, holy scriptures and sutras that are invaluable to Buddhism. The city has about 2, 55,000 inhabitants and stands at an altitude of approximately 3,650 m. Some of the aesthetically as well as historically important sites in Lhasa are the Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery and Norbulingka
Palaces.

Day 03: Lhasa Sightseeing (B)
Visit the World Heritage formidable site of Potala Palace in the morning. In the afternoon, visit Sera Monastery. Towards the late afternoon, visit the 7th century Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s holiest site. In the evening, take a walk in a clock-wise circuit or Kora around the temple grounds, along with the stream of humanity. Stroll through Barkhor market square.
Overnight in Lhasa

Potala Palace: The Potala palace is perched on the top of the Red Hill and dominates the skyline of Lhasa. The palace can be divided into two sections, the White Palace and the Red Palace. It was built by Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and used it as his centre of meditation. It was however in 1645 under the fifth Dalai Lama, Lozang Gyatso, that the palace took a massive shape as the white palace became complete. The construction of the Red Palace began in 1690 and was completed within a span of 4 years. It was the residence of the Dalai Lamas, until the 14th Dalai Lama escaped to India in 1959. Today the palace serves as a state museum of China. The palace has vast inward-sloping walls and has many windows and its roofs are flat at various levels. The central part of this group of buildings is quadrangular. This towering central portion of Potala is called the Red palace. It contains the principal
halls and chapels and shrines of past Dalai Lamas. It still holds items like murals, Holy Scriptures and sutras that are invaluable to Buddhism. Today the Potala Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited structures in the world.

Sera Monastery: In 1419 Jamchen Chojey also popularly known as Sakya Yeshe, one of the two principal disciple of Tsongkhapa, founded of a Gelukpa University, which later came to known as the Sera Monastery, and became one of the Great Three Gelukpa Monasteries of Tibet. The Sera university monastery had three basic schools. The first is the Sera Mey
Dratsang which was built in 1419 for the purpose of providing basic information on the doctrines of Buddhism and for the orientation of the monks. The second was the Sera Jey Dratsang, built in 1435, which was the largest, and was reserved for itinerant monks. The third one known as Ngagpa Dratsang which was built in 1559 was a school for the teaching of the Gelukpa dogmas. Scriptures written in gold powder, fine statues, scent cloth and unparalleled murals can be found in thesehalls. Colorful debates on Buddhist doctrines are held here and these employ a style distinctive from those at Lhasa's other famous monasteries.

Jokhang Temple: The Jokhang Temple is the most revered Buddhist temple in Lhasa and of Tibet, built by King Songtsen Gampo in about 642 AD. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was originally called, Rasa Tulnang Tsuklakang (House of Mysteries). In the 11th century a learned Buddhist monk named Atisha, taught here and it was after that, that the Jokhang temple got recognition. Today the temple covers an area of about 25,000 sq. ft. The Jokhang temple is a fourstoried structure. The style is basically Indian in its approach but has been well blended with Nepalese and well as Tibetan influences. The roofs of the temple are gilded with bronze. The rooftop has statues of two golden deer surrounding a Dharma wheel.

Day 04: Lhasa Sightseeing (B)
In the morning, visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery of Tibet. Later visit Mentsekhang (traditional Hospital). In the afternoon visit Norbulingkga Palace. The rest of the afternoon is free for rest or stroll around. Overnight in Lhasa

Drepung Monastery: The Drepung Monastery is the largest in Tibet. Its foundations were laid in 1416 by Jamyang Chojey, a direct disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelukpa Schools. This beautiful monastery is atop the Gambo Utse Mountain, 5 kilometers from the western suburb of Lhasa. Before the Cultural Revolution of 1959, the monastery housed about 15,000 monks. The ground floor of the monastery is organized on the caves and temples of Jamyang Chojey.There are also two white pagodas on which the buildings of this monastery rests. In the southwest corner, there is the Ganden Potrang which is a building which was constructed by the second Dalai Lama in 1530. At the centre, there is the Coqen Hall with a large square before it. A wide series of stone stairs will lead to the Entrance Hall. Once you enter through, you can see the Sutra Hall which is supported by 183 pillars. Inside the monastery there are statues of Sage Manjushri Tsong Khapa and Kwan-yin Bodhisattva. The
Coqen hall has the conch of Jamyang Chojey.

Mentsikhang (Tibetan Medicine Institute): The history of Tibetan medicine can be dated back to 2,300 years ago but for giving this a worldwide recognition Mentsekhang played an important role. Mentsekhang, the Tibetan medicine institute was built in 1916 as the center of research for Tibetan medicine. This serves as the traditional Tibetan hospital and is incidentally the largest in Tibet. It is located at Yuthok Lu just west of the Jokhang Temple. This was also the place for calendar calculations and was under the Tibetan local government before the Cultural Revolution in 1959. In 1980,Mentsekhang was expanded and it became the immediate centre for research and production of Tibetan medicine. This is also the place where training and treatments are provided. The institute is spread over an area of 40,000 sq meters. It consists of various departments like, orthopedics, pediatrics, internal medicine and surgery, etc. Mentsekhang is also the school for training Tibetan doctors. The Tibetan medical theory is portrayed on Thangkas as a teaching tool.

Norbulingkha Palaces: In 1755, the seventh Dalai Lama built a park and a modest palace as his summer residence.Later on other structures were added but the most important contribution was made by the present/ the 14th Dalai Lama,who added chapels, gardens, fountains and pools to the east of what the Seventh Dalai Lama has built. This collection of palaces known as the Norbulingka was the winter palace for Dalai Lamas. Norbulingka when translated literally means the Jeweled Park. Among others, the most visited one is the palace of the 14th Dalai Lama which was built in a fusion style of both Tibetan and Western from 1954-1956. The living quarters have a modern touch and included a lot of furniture and a European style bathroom. There is also a zoo at Norbulingka, which was built to keep the animals, offered to the Dalai Lama. The Austrian Mountaineer Heinrich Harrer helped the 14th Dalai Lama build a small movie theatre here in the 1950s. In 2001, UNESCO inscribed Norbulingka on its World Heritage List as part of the "Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace". The Norbulingka garden opens for general public everyday at 9 in the morning till 12 noon. It again reopens at 3.pm and closes just an hour after at 4 in the evening.

Day 05: Excursion to Yamdok Tsho Lake (B)
Today, we drive along the Lhasa-Kathmandu Highway to see Yamdrok Tso Lake. After about half hourfrom the city, you will cross Yarlung Tsangpo River and then climb up to Kamba la pass (4797m/15,820m). From the pass, you will get the first view of this brilliant turquoise-blue lake. Yamdrok Tsho Lake is one of four holiest lakes in Tibet. Along with the lake, you will also see in distant, the massif Mt. Nojin Kangtsang (7191m). Visit the lake and possibly see some nomads, nearby. Return to Lhasa by late afternoon.
Overnight in Lhasa

Day 06: Fly to Kathmandu CA 407 1045 0945 (B)
Transfer to lhasa airport for one hour long flight, Spectacular trans-Himalayas flights brings you to Kathmandu city. For Nepal Visa on arrival, you will need $25 in cash and two passport size photos. After clearing immigration and customs, Nepali guide welcomes you in kathmandu and take to the hotel. afternoon half day tour and evening typical nepalese dinner with dance.

Day 07: Kathmandu (B)
You will explore the Kathmandu valley Including pashupatinath temple the holistic Hindu temple, Boudhanath Stupa The Gaint Stupa in the world  And Bhaktapur city a city of wood carving today you will visit the painting school of Kathmandu.Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 08: Fly to Pokhara 30 minutes
After breakfast, drive to air port for flight to Pokhara-the capital of nature. Check in hotel and later stroll in the lakeside and enjoy boating in Fewa Lake and visit the Island Temple of Barahi.

Day 09: Pokhara (B)
After breakfast take a hike or drive to Sarangkot (1,592m,) that offers the excellent views of Annapurnas, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri on a clear weather day. Back to hotel for breakfast and visit some local sites in Pokhara.

Day 10: Pokhara-Kathmandu (B)
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to airport for flight to kathamndu.
Up on arrival in Kathamndu pick up by guide and transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Kathamndu.

Day 11: kathmandu (B)
In the morning visit Patan the city of art and craft.
Free afternoon to pursue your own interest.

Day 12: Fly to paro and drive to Thimpu (L/D) KB 127 0650 0950.
Transfer to Kathmandu internation airport, with in one hour you get to Bhutan, After immigration and custom formalities, you are met and transferred to Paro, where you can eat lunch in a local tourist restaurant. Visit the National Musuem of Paro, before driving to Thimphu, which takes about 1.5hrs. Take rest in the hotel.
Overnight in Thimpu

Day13: Thimphu sightseeing. (B/L/D)

Thimphu sightseeing includes - visit to National Library, the priceless collection of Buddhist manuscripts and few English version books; Folk and Heritage Museum, which displays day to day livelihood of typical Bhutanese farmers in medieval period and their accessories; Late King’s Memorial Stupa, built for the world peace and Traditional Handmade Paper Factory; Painting School, which preserves our traditional paintings, sculpturing and wood curving; Majestic Tashichhodzong, which houses office for the king and the ministers and National Handicraft Emporium, the best place to look for souvenir from Bhutan. Evening free walk in Thimphu City.
Overnight in Thimpu

Day 14: Thimphu – Punakha-Thimpu (148 Kms.) 7 hrs. (B/L/D)
After breakfast proceeds to Punakha across Dochula pass (3,100m).  The pass offers the most spectacular view over the greater eastern Himalayas including highest peak of Bhutan.  Enroute make short excursion about an hour to the temple of divine madman, also well known as the temple of fertility. It is fascinating to walk through villages and the rice fields. Arrive Punakha the capital city of Bhutan till 1955 and still the Je Khenpo, the Chief of Abbot resides there during the winter season.  After lunch visit Punakha Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638 and situated at the junction of Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers.
Evening drive back to Thimpu. Overnight in Thimpu

Day 15: Thimphu - Paro (B/L/D)
Drive to Paro and Transfer to trail-head and begin your trek to Takstang (Tiger’s Lair) monastery, Bhuitan’s most famous sight. Your guide can arrange pony/horse for ride uphill till the Cafeteria, but one must be able to walk after that. A proper trekking boot or good walking shoes is necessary for this hike Those who choose not to hike can stay back with the driver and tour around Paro.
Overnight in Paro

Taktshang - Tiger's Nest: Taktshang or 'Tiger's Nest' as it is often referred to for Taktshang Pelphung monastery, is one of the most venerated and famous of Bhutan's monasteries. It is located on the face of a 900m sheer cliff. An impressive and un-miss able site, but accessible only by walk or to ride mules/pony. Taktshang was rebuilt by population of Tsento village. Again in April of 1998, a major fire destroyed the main structure of the building and its contents (some believe it to be arson). Reconstruction began in 2000 and was completed and consecrated after extensive efforts and financial support of Governments as well as donors.

Day 16:  Paro - Bangkok / Delhi (B) Transfer to Airport on time after breakfast

 

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi

Tour Cost will be charged in US dollors, depending on days and hotel category , Please contact us via E-mail

Join American's group from August 7th - 22nd 2013

Trip Activity Level

The trip is mostly motor vehicle based sightseeing with some light hikes and village visits. Lhasa is at an altitude of 3,500m and travelers can experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness but with prior preparation, we can minimize the chances. As we continue to stay in the elevation of Lhasa, the effects of altitude should disappear in a day or two.
Himalayas guide is an active adventure travel company. We have set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Since we are the leading adventure company, we have a lot to live up to, so we make sure we provide safe, quality trips and the best customer service to our passengers.

Note on Itinerary.
Although we will do our very best to adhere to the itinerary schedule as listed; it is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi

Booking and Cancellation

When you are sure you are traveling, please don't delay in booking. The internal flights are the key factor in determining whether your trip can be realized or not.

Deposit.
A non-refundable land deposit of US$150.00 plus the cost of internal airfares is requested. Also forward your trip application form and a copy of the photo page of your passport.

Balance Payment
Balance payment is due 90 days prior to your departure. Depending on the number of applicants, we may set an early payment date. If balance of payment is not received by the requested date, we reserve the right to cancel your booking without prior notice.

Cancellations
Cancellations received 90 days prior departure will result in loss of deposit.
Cancellation received less than 90 days and more than 45 days prior to the departure date will be charged 25% of the land cost.

Cancellations received less than 45 days and more than 15 days prior to the departure date will be charged 75% of the land cost.

There will be no refund on cancellations received less than 15 days.

Air ticket cancellation charges will be as per the policy of concerned airlines.

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi

Travel Note

1 Bangkok/Paro flight operates every day.
2 Paro/Kathmandu flight operates only on TUE, THUS and SUN.
3 Kathmandu/Lhasa/Kathmandu flight operates Tue,Thu,Sat
4 Kathmandu/Bangkok flight operates everyday

Accommodations and facilities.
There are not many choices of hotels in Bhutan. With a couple of exceptions, all hotels are small in size but are clean, well maintained and staffed with the friendly locals. You can expect reasonably modern en suite bathrooms with running water but you may want to bring your own toiletries, hair dryers etc.

There are more choices in Tibet but we pick a middle range hotel in the Barkhor Area which is pre-dominantly Tibetan in character. Our choice of hotel has Tibetan décor and managed and staffed by friendly Tibetan locals. The hotels promise fundamental amenities such as bathroom en suite, running hot and cold water, heating etc. In Nepal, there are ranges of accommodations available and comparing to their counterparts in Bhutan and Tibet, they have better amenities and services. We use 4-5 star level hotels which guarantee all modern comforts.

Expert Local Guides
We use local guide and tour escorts who are knowledgeable, experienced and professional. Besides showing you wonder you'd never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You'll be in good hands with them every step of the way. By the way, you should know that, unlike in some countries, driver and guide is different person.

Vehicle
Depending on group size, we use car, Japanese Hiave Van, SUVS or mini buses which are in excellent condition.

Visa and Permits
You should apply Chinese visa on your own. Tibet permits and Bhutan visa are taken care of by us. You can obtain Nepal visa upon arrival at Kathmandu airport. We will provide more information through correspondence.

Internal Flights
All internal flights are manually booked in respective country. You will collect these tickets from our local representatives in the gateway cities. Its your responsibility to check and reconfirm all the tickets.

Alternative Routes

Option 02 Bangkok - Bhutan - Nepal - Tibet - Bangkok/ Beijing

Option 03 Kathmandu Nepal - Tibet - Bhutan - Bangkok / Delhi