India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet Tour

Delhi Elevation: 216 meters/709 feet

As soon as you arrive at the international airport in Delhi, our multi-country tour begins. We will greet you and pick you up at the airport terminal for the journey to Agra. The distance from Delhi to Agra is approximately 230 kilometers. Riding in a smooth and comfortable private vehicle, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way. If you wish, we can stop at landmarks like Qutub Minar, one of the world’s tallest brick minarets, and Sikandra, the tomb of emperor Akbar, en route.

A 3 – 4 hour scenic city drive from Delhi will take you to Agra. During this fascinating drive, you will have interesting insights into the diverse landscapes and historical and cultural importance of the places, which enrich your tour experience.

Agra Elevation: 171 meters/561 feet

Agra houses an iconic landmark, the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. We will see this morning’s sunrise at the world-famous Taj Mahal. This historic mausoleum was built by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, for his best-loved wife Mumtaz Mahal. After exploring this spectacular architecture, we head to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. After sightseeing this imperial mosque of Mughal emperors, you will tour the ghost city, Fatehpur Sikri, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once thriving Mughal capital is now abandoned, and remaints of the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the Mughal era.

Next, we visit the Agra Fort (military fort) and many other notable attractions. You will be provided with informative facts about each site visited. You can leisurely explore the architectural heritage of the place, take photographs, and immerse yourself in the magnificence of this ancient city. Time permitting, we will tour the local markets in Agra and arrange a traditional Mughlai meal.

Once the sightseeing tour in Agra ends, we will comfortably transport you back in a private vehicle to Delhi. In Delhi, you will spend the night at a standard hotel with a delicious dinner. But before that, you can have a joyful evening walk around the city streets and markets to go shopping or buy souvenirs. Enjoy your final day in India and sleep well for your next day’s early morning flight to Bhutan.

Paro Elevation: 2,250 meters/7,382 feet

Delhi to Paro Flight Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Today, we will fly from Delhi (India) to Paro, a small valley town in Bhutan. After arriving at the only international airport of Bhutan in Paro, we transfer you to the hotel. At the hotel, you can rest, eat, and be ready to head out to sightsee Paro City.

Paro, a historic town, has several sacred sites to visit. We will start by visiting Rinpung Dzong, a fortress built in the 17th century with intricate architecture. Ringpung Dzong is located in the suburb of Paro City, atop the hill overlooking the Paro Valley. This fortress monastery is said to protect the Paro Valley, which also offers awe-inspiring scenery and serenity.

Kyichu Lhakhang (Kyerchu Temple) is one of the oldest sacred temples in Bhutan. It is located in a peaceful ambiance encircled by hills, fields, and varieties of flowers. The rich history and religious importance of the Kyichu Lhakhand are evident in its historical relics, intricate paintings, Buddhist scriptures, and Sakyamuni, a statue of an 8-year-old Buddha.

In the afternoon, we will visit the Paro National Museum, which is inside a historic watchtower, Ta Dzong. While exploring this museum, you can gain deep knowledge of Bhutanese history, art, culture, and architecture. The museum also exhibits the distinctive traditional costumes, ancient weapons, and religious antiques of the rich kingdom of Bhutan. Next, we drive to visit Drukgyel Dzong on the outskirts of Paro. From this ruined fortress, you can enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains and village spreading at its feet.

In the evening, you can enjoy a slow and relaxed walk around the bustling streets and local markets of Paro. You can interact with charming Bhutanese people, sample local delicacies, and take in the captivating ambiance of the town.

Thimpu Elevation: 2,320 meters/7,610 feet

Taktsang Monastery Elevation: 3120 meters/ 10200 feet

Paro to Thimpu distance: 54 kilometers

Drive Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Hike Duration to Taktsang Monastery:2-3 hours

Early in the morning, we will embark on a popular and rewarding trek of Taktsang Monastery, which is one of the most iconic and holiest landmarks in Bhutan. Tatksang Monstery is also popularly known as the Tiger’s Nest. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) came here riding on the back of a tigress and meditated in the caves for several months.

We will take a short drive from Paro to the starting point of the hike. From there, we will follow the winding trails to Tatksang Monstery, which passes through the forests of pine and rhododendrons. There are teahouses on the way where you can stop for rest and scenic views. You can see several small shrines and prayer flags fluttering by the cool mountainside breeze while ascending to the monastery.

A 2-3 hour uphill hike, covering around 4.5 kilometers, will take you to Taktsang Monastery, which rewards you with mesmerizing views of the Paro Valley below. The Monastery is complexly situated and perched at the cliffside with a great spiritual atmosphere. After exploring this magnificent monastery, we will drive from Paro to Thimphu. The distance between these two places is around 55 kilometers, and it takes about 1-2 hours to cover this length via a road.

Punakha Elevation: 1,250 meters/4,100 feet

Thimphu to Punakha Distance: 76 kilometers

Drive Duration: 2-3 hours

Today, we will sightsee Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan. We will visit some of the notable landmarks of Bhutan like Tashichho Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Folk Heritage Museum and more. You can see the throne room of the Bhutanese king in Tashichho Dzong and marvel at the sweeping views of the city from the significant height of Buddha Shakyamuni, a massive bronze statue atop a hill. Next, you will explore the National Memorial Chorten built in memory of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Afterward, you will gain insights into the traditional way of life of the Bhutanese people at the Folk Heritage Museum. Besides, we will tour the National Library, Hand-made Paper Factory, and the School of Arts and Crafts

After completing the sightseeing in Thimphu, we will drive to Punakha. The roadway journey from Thimphu to Punakha will take you around 2.5 to 3 hours. During the journey, you will pass by diverse mountainside landscapes and cross the Dochula Pass, from where you can see expansive views of the mountains. Once you reach Punakha, you will reside in a comfortable hotel.

Punakha to Paro Distance: 130 kilometers

Drive duration: 4 hours

Today, after having a hearty breakfast in the morning, we will explore the key attractions of Punakha and drive to Paro for an international flight to Kathmandu, Nepal.

In Punakha, we will explore Punakha Dzong, a fortress-monastery, and Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple where couples seek blessings for fertility and children. Then, we will set out for a picturesque drive to Paro.

During the Punakha to Paro drive, you can witness the scenic landscapes of the Bhutanese countryside. You will pass through the lush valleys and traditional villages with terraced fields along the winding roads. Before descending down to the Paro Valley, you will traverse the Wangdue Phodrang town en route.

Kathmandu Elevation: 1,400 meters/4,594 feet

Paro to Kathmandu Flight Duration: 1 hour

Kathmandu to Bharatpur Flight Duration: 25 minutes

Drive Duration: 30 minutes

Today, bid farewell to the land of Thunder Dragon and proceed to the onward journey to Nepal.

After departing from Paro International Airport, you will arrive at Nepal, the land of the Himalayas. Next, you will fly from Kathmandu to Bharatpur airport in order to reach Chitwan.

From the Bharatpur airport, we will transfer you restfully to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check in to your accommodation, rest, eat, and sleep, and prepare for the next day of your adventurous journey.

Chitwan National Park is one of the well-protected wildlife sanctuaries in Nepal. It is the habitat of numerous wild species like the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, gaur, etc, and birds like ted barbet, red-breasted parakeet, Asian openbill, grey-headed fish eagle, red-vented bulbul, black drongo, and many more.

You can explore the Chitwan National Park by riding in a jeep (jungle safari) or opt for elephant rides. Likewise, you can go on bird-watching and canoeing trips. Also, you can have cultural experiences and exchange with the local Tharu people.

Pokhara Elevation: 823 meters/2,700 feet

Chitwan to Pokhara Duration: 150 kilometers

Drive Duration: 5-6 hours

Today, we will drive from Chitwan to the bustling tourist destination, Pokhara. We will follow the most common roadway from Chitwan to Pokhara through the Prithivi highway. We leave Chitwan and drive through several towns, including Bharatpur, Muglin, and Damauli, and finally reach Pokhara. Pokhara is a picturesque lake city amidst the foothills of the majestic Himalayas.

After arriving in Pokhara, you will boat at the Phewa Lake and visit the Talbarahi temple (holy Hindu temple) in the middle of this lake. Then, you will have a brief tour of David’s fall and Mahadev Cave. Next, we will embark on a leisurely hike to Buddha Shanti Stupa, where you can enjoy the expansive panorama of Pokhara city.

Pokhara to Kathmandu Flight Duration: 25 – 30 minutes

Today, we will wake up before the break of the day and drive to Sarangkot Hill to catch the magnificent sunrise view. From Sarangkot, you can see the magnificent sun rays radiating the pristine white snow-capped Himalayas with golden hues.

Next, we fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara. 25 to 30 minutes of scenic flight will reward you with stunning aerial views of the snow-capped Himalayas, rolling hills, and lush valleys. After you land at the Kathmandu airport, we will transfer you to the hotel. At the hotel, you can refresh, rest, and be ready for the flight to Lhasa (Tibet) the next day.

Lhasa Elevation: 3,656 meters/11,995 feet

Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours

Around 2 hours of flight from Kathmandu will land you at the international airport in Lhasa (Lhasa Gonggar Airport). Lhasa is the capital of Tibet, an autonomous region in China. Located in the southernmost part of Tibetan Pleatue, Lhasa is a historically, culturally, and religiously rich city with incredible Tibetan-Buddhist heritages.

Lhasa is at an altitude of around 3,656 meters/11,995 feet. After your landing at the airport, a Tibetan guide will escort you to the hotel, where you can rest and acclimatize to the high-altitude level of Lhasa. Enjoy the mouthwatering taste of lunch and dinner in the hotel. Plus, you can also sample the unique traditional Tibetan tea.

Sightseeing Duration: 5-6 hours

Lhasa offers various sightseeing opportunities. Potala Palace is one of the key attractions in Tibet. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is atop the Marpo Ri (Red Hill). This architectural heritage is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and was the winter residence of the Dalai Lamas for several centuries.

Norbulingla Palace is another UNESCO Site, which was the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas. It is also known as Jewel Park, with beautiful gardens, colorful murals and palaces.

Tibet Traditional Hospital is the center place for preserving and promoting traditional Tibetan medicines. During this guided tour with Tibetan doctors, you can learn about Tibetan medical practices, herbal remedies, and healing methods.

Sightseeing Duration: 5-6 hours

Today, we will tour a few more fascinating sites in Lhasa. Sera Monastery is one of the three great Gelung University monasteries of Tibet. It has unique murals, holy relics, and a debating courtyard (monks do philosophical debates in Buddhist scriptures). Drepung is the center of Buddhist learning and spiritual practices, where you can also see intricate artworks, assembly halls, religious relics, and more. Jokhang Temple is a combination of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian architectural styles. It hosts the sacred Jowo Shakyamuni statue of Lord Buddha at 12.

Barkhor Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace with lined shops alongside narrow alleys. There, you can find sellers of Tibetan handicrafts, clothing, religious art, and souvenirs. You can observe the daily life of people, sample Tibetan cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Barkhor Bazaar.

Excursion Duration: 5-6 hours

Ganden Monastery and Drayerpa Cave are two important religious and cultural sites in Lhasa. Today, we will pay a visit to these significant places during our full day of excursion.

Like Sera and Drepung, Ganden is one of the three great Gelung University monasteries of Tibet. The monastery is perched on the Wangbur Mountain at over 4,000 meters altitude. You can marvel at the fascinating views of valleys and mountains from this height. You can see the monks chanting, praying, meditating, and conducting daily rituals in the monastery

Drayerpa Cave (Drak Yerpa) is a sacred place for Tibetan Buddhist practitioners to meditate. The cave is located secludedly on the rugged limestone cliff, offering peace. The cave incorporates ancient statues, murals, and holy relics. You will hike the scenic trails to Drayerpa Cave to explore several meditation chambers and rich spiritual heritages.

Once the day tour ends, you will reside in a comfortable hotel in Lhasa and prepare to fly to Kathmandu the next day.

You will be transferred to the airport in Lhasa for the flight back to Kathmandu. After you arrive in Kathmandu, our tour guide, awaiting you outside the arrival area, will transfer you to the hotel. After you checkin your hotel, take some time to rest and have lunch before setting out to sightsee the city.

On this day, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of this historic city. We will start by visiting the Durbar Squares (Royal Palaces). Kathmandu Durbar Square, also known as Basantapur Durbar or Hanumandhoka, was the royal residence until the 19th century. In this ancient palace, important ceremonies used to be held by the Malla Kings or Shah Dynasties. After exploring the incredible architecture and exquisite decorations of this Royal Palace, we will continue to visit Swyambhunath, a monkey temple.

The Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest and holiest Buddhist stupas. It is situated at the top of a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. This stupa has a white dome and golden spire and is adorned with the eyes of the Buddha and colorful prayer flags. From Swyambhunath, you can marvel at the incredible views of the entire city and distant Himalayas.

Next, we visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which highlights the spectacular cultural heritages and exquisite newari architecture of ancient Nepal. Nyatapola Temple, 55 Windows Palace, Vatsala Temple, Bhairav Nath Temple, Golden Gate, etc, are some major attractions of the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

Another site on our list is the Pashupatinath, the most sacred ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at the banks of the Bagmati River, where the cremation rituals are held. Afterward, we will head towards the Bouddhanath stupa, which is one of the largest stupas in South Asia. It is the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture with unique arts and handicrafts.

Lastly, we will visit Patan Durbar Square, which is packed with numerous temples, courtyards, and statues of the medieval period. Here, you can explore some of the architectural heritage, such as the Golden Temple (the oldest Buddhist temple dating back to the 12th century with golden roofs and intricate wood carvings), the Krishna Mandir (Newari architecture dedicated to Lord Krishna), pagoda-style Taleju Bhawani temple, and more.

After completing the Kathmandu Valley excursion, you can have a well-rested time at your hotel.

Today is the final day of your multicountry tour of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. With the cherished memory of your amazing time in these wonderful countries, it is time to conclude the tour and get back home safely.

As this pleasant and legendary tour comes to an end, our airport representative member will pick you up from the hotel after you have your final breakfast in Nepal. Then, he/she will transfer you to Tribhuwan International Airport for your international departure. He/she will drop you off at the airport on time, depending on your flight schedule.

I want to thank you for embarking on this wonderful journey with us. We hope that you had an unforgettable time exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of the countries that you have visited. We hope to see you again on your next adventure. Bid farewell to Nepal and board the flight homeward.