The Himalayan Duo

Today you will be visiting soul-enriching journey to the Namobuddha Monastery and the charming town of Panauti in Nepal. The adventure begins with a visit to the serene Namobuddha Monastery, nestled amidst rolling hills, where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and reflect on Buddhist teachings. Continuing to Panauti, you'll discover ancient temples, intricately carved architecture, and a quaint atmosphere that transports you back in time, offering a captivating glimpse into Nepal's cultural and spiritual heritage.

Lunch at Vatsala Café in Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur City: Known as the "City of Devotees," Bhaktapur is a medieval gem in the Kathmandu Valley, preserving its heritage with intricate architecture, ancient squares, and well-preserved buildings. The Durbar Square is a treasure trove of Newari craftsmanship, showcasing intricately carved palaces, temples, and courtyards. The city's timeless ambiance, red-brick streets, and traditional way of life create a captivating atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

Rest of the day is at leisure

Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Kathmandu Durbar Square: This historic plaza in the heart of Kathmandu is a living museum of Nepal's royal past. Adorned with palaces, temples, and intricately carved wooden structures, it reflects the architectural brilliance of bygone dynasties. The Kumari Chowk, home to the living goddess Kumari, and the Taleju Temple are among the square's mesmerizing highlights.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Perched atop a hill, Swayambhunath is an ancient stupa and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. The eyes of Buddha watch over the city as monkeys frolic around the stupa, adding a lively charm to this spiritual sanctuary where Buddhism and Hinduism intertwine.

Pashupatinath: A sacred complex on the banks of the Bagmati River, Pashupatinath is Nepal's most revered Hindu temple. Devotees and Sadhus gather here to pay homage to Lord Shiva, and the ghats where cremations take place offer a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death, all set against the serene backdrop of the temple's pagoda-style architecture.

Lunch at Nani’s Kitchen, Boudha (4 course menu)

Boudhanath: This colossal stupa, one of the largest in the world, is a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Kathmandu. The all-seeing eyes of Buddha gaze out from the stupa's white dome, while prayer flags flutter in the breeze. The surrounding area is a hub of monasteries, shops, and Tibetan cultural influence, making it a spiritual and cultural hub within the city.

Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Today, you will fly to Paro and transfer to Thimphu (55 Km – 1.5 hrs)

The flight to Paro, Bhutan, is renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan range. Departing from Kathmandu, Nepal, this journey treats passengers to captivating views before a thrilling descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. Upon disembarking, Bhutan welcomes you with crisp mountain air, a refreshing introduction to the country.

After completing immigration formalities, a representative will greet you with the traditional "Tashi Khaddar," offering a white scarf as a warm and respectful welcome gesture. Following this ceremony, you'll board a vehicle heading towards Thimphu, Bhutan's capital. The route takes you through the picturesque Paro valley, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet at Chuzom. During the journey, you'll have the chance to visit Tamchog Lhakhang, dedicated to the 13th-century saint Thangthong Gyalpo, renowned for his bridge-building skills. To reach the temple, you'll cross a remaining iron chain bridge—one of those crafted by Thangthong Gyalpo.

Upon arriving in Thimphu, you'll check into your hotel. The capital, while not conforming to typical city expectations, is Bhutan's political, religious, and commercial center, blending modern development with ancient traditions. After lunch, explore Buddha Point, locally known as Kuensel Phodrang, home to Bhutan's largest Buddha statue. Offering prayers and a leisurely stroll, the point provides panoramic views of the Thimphu valley to the west.

Overnight Stay at the Hotel in Thimphu (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Early morning take a short drive to northern end of town to perform Tshewang ceremony (additional cost-optional) at 12^th century Changangkha Lhakhang: It is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above Thimphu, south of Motithang.

This is a special prayer ceremony held at monastery by a team of  monks for the peace, prosperity and good health, guests are required to lit butter lamp at monastery alter.

 Later visit Takin Preserve: The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.

Lunch is followed by a short city tour visiting Textile Museum, the living national art of weaving. The place introduces the major weaving techniques, styles of local dress and textiles made by women and men.  Continue on to Simply Bhutan Museum: The newly commissioned museum depicts the ancient Bhutanese architecture which is being lost to modernization.  The uniqueness of the structure is in its composition of the materials used. The structure is built reusing old timber, window and door frames and other items from traditional and old demolished houses.  Later visit to King's Memorial Chorten continuously circumambulated by people, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace.

Drive further up to visit Trashichhoedzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion, site of monarch’s throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in 1960s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans.

Overnight at the Hotel in Thimphu (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

After breakfast at hotel, Drive to Punakha across Dochula pass (3O8Om). In Bhutan, the passes are marked by a large Bhutanese Chorten and prayer flag. Dochula pass offers the most spectacular view over the high peaks of the eastern Himalayas on a clear day.

After checking into hotel, proceed to visit Punakha Dzong, a massive structure built at the junction of two rivers. It was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and still serves as the winter residence of the monk body.

Later in the day excursion to Chimi Lhakhang (from hotel it is about 15 minutes’ drive till motorable road and then walk starts through paddy fields and villages. This is total about 1½ hour walk, including both way). The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning ‘field’.

Overnight at the Hotel in Punakha (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Paro along scenic highway, en-route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the country built in 1627 which now houses the School for Buddhist studies. On arrival in Paro, check into the hotel. After lunch, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons &armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artefacts. Ta Dzong visit immediately followed by a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (ParoDzong), meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru and other cosmic Mandala. Overnight at the Hotel in Paro (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

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 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. Afternoon drive  to Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. The snowy dome of sacred Chomolhari, "mountain of goddess'' can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong.

Later, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Overnight at the Hotel in Paro (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to Kathmandu. Arrive at Kathmandu and transfer to Patan city for sightseeing tour.

Patan City: Also referred to as "The City of Fine Arts," Patan is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and artistic marvels. The Durbar Square is a living museum of Newari architecture, adorned with pagoda-style temples, intricate woodwork, and ornate metalwork. The Patan Museum is a highlight, exhibiting an exquisite collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts, showcasing the city's profound historical and artistic significance.

Lunch at El-mediterreno at Jhamsikhel

After the lunch drive to Hotel and check in

Rest of the day is at leisure

Evening: Nepalese dinner with cultural dance show at Nepali restaurant (Mahotsav)

Overnight stay at Hotel in Kathmandu (Includes: breakfast, lunch & dinner)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to your next destination