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33 Days Spiritual Odyssey from India to Nepal Tibet and Bhutan

33 Days Spiritual Odyssey from India to Nepal Tibet and Bhutan

(ITNB002) Delhi - Pink City - Jaipur - Agra - Orchha - Varanasi - Lumbini - Chitwan - Kathmandu - Lhasa - Shigatse - EBC - Saga - Darchen - Kailash - Saga - Gyirong - Paro - Thimpu - Punakha - Taktshang Goemba - Paro

Overview

The epic 33-day tour ingeniously weaves all the holiest Buddhist sites from India to Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan together. Your spiritual odyssey starts with a triangle tour route to three of the most popular cities in northern India, i.e. Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. Then, you hop on the train to sacred Varanasi, where you will enjoy the boating in the Ganges and explore the daily life of Hindus. Then, you cross the Indio-Nepal border to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

After the thrilling jungle safari in Chitwan and the classic sightseeing in Kathmandu, you board the flight to Lhasa. By following the epic overland tour from Lhasa to EBC, Mt.Kailash, and Kathmandu, you will learn more of Tibetan Buddhism and stand at the foot of the world’s highest peak and experience best spiritual walk around holy Mt. Kailash.

The final part of the journey takes you to Bhutan, the mystic Himalayan Kingdom. You can hike to the famous cliff-side Bhutan Dzongs and closely observe the peaceful life of local Bhutan people.

At a Glance

Day 1

Arrival in Delhi

Day 2

Day Tour in Delhi: Explore Old and New Delhi

Day 3

Travel from Delhi to Jaipur (280 km; 5-6hrs drive)

Day 4

Day Tour in Pink City: Visit City Forts and Palaces

Day 5

Travel from Jaipur to Agra (280km; 5-6hrs drive)

Day 6

Travel from Agra to Orchha by Train (220km, 2:50 hrs)

Day 7

Orchha Sightseeing and Take Train to Varanasi

Day 8

Arrival in Varanasi

Day 9

Day Tour in Varanasi

Day 10

Cross the border from Varanasi to Lumbini, Nepal (293.6km; around 5hrs)

Day 11

Travel from Lumbini to Chitwan ( around 3hrs drive)

Day 12

Full-day Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

Day 13

Drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu ( around 5-6hrs drive)

Day 14

Day tour in Kathmandu: Kathmandu City, Swayambhunath and Pantan City

Day 15

Day tour in Kathmandu: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Bhaktapur City

Day 16

Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa

Day 17

Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

Day 18

Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery

Day 19

Lhasa- Shigatse via Gyantse (360km)

Day 20

Shigatse to EBC 350 km

Day 21

EBC - Saga (450km)

Day 22

Saga to Darchen, via Lake Manasarover (450km)

Day 23

Darchen - Drirapuk (driving 7km, Trek 13km)

Day 24

Drirapuk - Dzutrpuk (Trek 18km)

Day 25

Dzutripuk - Darchen (Trek 7km, driving 5km)

Day 26

Darchen - Saga (450km)

Day 27

Saga to Gyirong County (102km)

Day 28

Exit China through Gyirong Border (2600m), Then Drive to Kathmandu

Day 29

Arrival in Paro and Get Transferred to Thimpu (2300m) (2hrs’drive)

Day 30

Sightseeing in Thimpu and Travel to Punakha (1250m) (3-4hrs’drive)

Day 31

Sightseeing in Punakha Dzong and Drive back to Paro (1460m) (4 hrs’ drive)

Day 32

Trek to Taksang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest)

Day 33

Departure from Paro

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Arrive at international airport in Delhi; you will be warmly received by our Indian guide and get transferred to hotel. You can relax yourself and explore around for the rest of the day.

Stay overnight in Delhi

Day 2: Day Tour in Delhi: Explore Old and New Delhi

After breakfast, we are expected to explore the historical Old and New Delhi. The first stop will be Jama Mosque, one of the largest mosques in India. You may enjoy the stunning architecture and enjoy the crowds for praying, esp. on Friday. Afterwards, you can take rickshaw ride via old Chandni chowk bazaar to visit Old Delhi and one of the largest spice markets in Asia.

Then we keep moving to Raj Ghat, the memorial of father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi. You can enjoy the peace and tranquility while strolling the enchanting garden and monument. Later, we head to New Delhi, built by British. You will pass the official office and residence of the president of India and visit iconic India gate, which is a memorial to patriotic Indian soldiers who died in WWI. Finally we will cover the Qutub Minar, a magnificent UNESCO world heritage site in New Delhi.

Stay overnight in Delhi

Day 3: Travel from Delhi to Jaipur (280 km; 5-6hrs drive)

Today we will head to Jaipur, the welcoming Pink City in Northern India. The long drive will pass idyllic Indian villages and Aravalli hills, etc. Upon your arrival in Jaipur, you can will be directly transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is for your relaxation or you may opt for touring Galta Ji, a monkey-ruled Hindu temple with unique architecture in Jaipur.

Stay overnight in Jaipur

Day 4: Day Tour in Pink City: Visit City Forts and Palaces

After tasty breakfast, we are on our way to tour the stunning Amber fort, a must visit UNESCO site in Jaipur. You may follow the stairs to explore the magnificent fort, or even enjoy the elephant ride. The main attraction of the fort is the Sheesh Mahal where the belgium glass used for the mahal. You can closely observe exquisite artworks and skillful stone cutting, etc.

Afterwards, we will head to visit City Palace, a superb royal property built by Maharaja of Amer during 1729-1734. The sublime architecture and a large collection of textiles, costumes and weapons jewels, etc. will blow your mind. The last stop takes you to Jantar Mantar, a perfect place for science geeks to explore astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II.

Stay overnight in Jaipur

Day 5: Travel from Jaipur to Agra (280km; 5-6hrs drive)

The long drive will take us from Jaipur to Agra, one of the major tourist cities in India. On the way, we will make a brief visit to 9th Century step well Abhaneri. The over 3000 crisscrossing steps arranged in a geometric architectural design will leave you in awe. Then the tour group is expected to tour Ghost city Fatehpur Sikri. You may stroll in the imperial complex of pavilions and palaces spread amongst a large abandoned 'city' peppered with Mughal masterpieces. Finally, you will arrive in the hotel in Agra.

Stay overnight in Agra

Day 6: Travel from Agra to Orchha by Train (220km, 2:50 hrs)

Traveling by train to reach Orchha gives you a different perspective of India. Through the window, you will have a glimpse of India’s cities and rural scene. After arrive in Orchha, we will be transferred to your hotel. After you check in, we will make a brief visit to magnificent Orchha Fort built by Bundela Kings on the bank of Betwa River.

Stay overnight in Orchha

Day 7: Orchha Sightseeing and Take Train to Varanasi

In the morning, we set out to visit Tarrggram, a distinct paper-making plant, where you can enjoy the traditional paper-making techniques and even help tribal ladies to make your own paper. In the afternoon, we can enjoy a relaxing cycling tour of the small town or stroll along the river.

In the evening, we board the overnight train to Varanasi. (13hrs )

Stay overnight in the Train

Day 8: Arrival in Varanasi

After you check in the hotel, in the afternoon, we will take a stroll in the narrow streets of old city of Varanasi, and visit Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in India. The rest of time is for free exploration of the town and a great option is to walk to the banks of the River Ganges to soak up the unique religious atmosphere.

Stay overnight in Varanasi

Day 9: Day Tour in Varanasi

Have an early rise for the famous morning boating in the Ganges. The Hindus’ way of life will unfold before your eyes. Sitting on the boat, you may also enjoy a lot of temples close to the riverbank and a number of famous Ghats (piers).

After the boating we will drive to Sarnath, around 8km from Varanasi City. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites where Lord Budha founded Sangha and deliver his first sermon. And in the evening, we will experience the Hindu ritual Aarti, performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. You may watch in the ghat or riverside boat.

Stay overnight in Varanasi

Day 10: Cross the border from Varanasi to Lumbini, Nepal (293.6km; around 5hrs)

It will be a long drive. You will travel in the winding mountain roads and enjoy the changing landscape. Then we will process the Nepal Visa and go through customs and head to holy Lumbini, the holiest place for Buddhism. You can visit Lumbini Garden,the birthplace of Lord Buddha including a number of Buddhist monasteries.

Stay overnight in Lumbini

Day 11: Travel from Lumbini to Chitwan ( around 3hrs drive)

After breakfast, we travel overland from Lumbini to Chitwan National Park. You will experience a lot of Safari activities; jungle walks, canoeing, Elephant safaris and so forth. Once the night falls down, we entertain you with cultural performances including bonfire before getting in bed.

Stay overnight at Chitwan

Day 12: Full-day Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park

Enjoy your breakfast and you will get full day safari activities in Royal Chitwan National Park. If you are lucky, you will see many amazing creatures that you spend most time to looking for, such as, rhinoceroses, Chitwan's royal Bengal tigers, leopards, monkeys, many types of deer and reptiles. Check your camera gear - preferably with a telephoto lens and you will not miss any shots.

Stay overnight in Chitwan

Day 13: Drive from Chitwan to Kathmandu ( around 5-6hrs drive)

After breakfast, we will have a long drive to Kathmandu Valley. You may enjoy the changing landscape and enchanting villages along the way. After you check in the hotel, you may have a good rest at the hotel or explore around freely.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu

Day 14: Day tour in Kathmandu: Kathmandu City, Swayambhunath and Pantan City

The day starts with a tour of Kathmandu City and takes in the famous Kathmandu Durbar Square. The most famous square in the city, the Durbar Square is the Royal Palace square in the city and is surrounded by ancient buildings from the early 16th century. The magnificent architecture, exquisite decorations, and the intensity of historical items gives a great insight into Nepali culture.

You then continue the tour with a visit to the Swayambhunath Pagoda, which is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambhunath is a huge golden stupa festooned with prayer flags that flutter in the breeze, on a hill that overlooks the entire city. Then it is on to Patan City, the second largest city in the Kathmandu Valley area. Patan City has one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Nepal that dates back to the 12th century and is a great place to explore the Buddhist culture of Nepal.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 15: Day tour in Kathmandu: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath and Bhaktapur City

You will also get to go further afield in Nepal, to visit the ancient Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in Asia, and a focal point for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Set on the banks of the Baghmati River, Pashupatinath is one of Nepal’s famous UNESCO sites, and the sunset over the temple roofs is spectacular.

Another great place to see is Boudhanath, located on the ancient trade route. It is a place of meditation and part of the spiritual journey around Kathmandu. With one of the largest stupas in the world, it has been the site of many Tibetan prayers over the centuries. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the last place to visit for the day, with its pagoda and shikhara temples strewn around the royal palace. The square really highlights the ancient building arts of Nepal.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 16: Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa

Take a flight to Lhasa, which is expected to last around 1h30m. Do take the left window seat, you can enjoy stunning bird’s eye view of Mt. Everest while flying past Great Himalayan Range. Upon your arrival, our local Tibetan guide will be expecting you and escort you to your hotel in Lhasa. The rest of the day is for you to have a good rest to acclimatize to the high altitude on Tibetan Plateau.

Stay overnight in Lhasa

Day 17: Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street

Today's tour will first bring you to the Potala Palace which is the winter palace of the Dalai Lama. It was put to use since the 7th Century by the 33rd great king of Tibet. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.

Then after lunch, tourists head to Jokhang temple which was founded by the 33rd great king of Tibet in the 7th century. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.

Besides, we can taste Tibetan tea with locals in tea house; the welcome dinner will also be arranged accordingly.

Optional:
With time permitting, you may go with tour guide to visit Tibetan handicraft art or Tibetan Traditional Medicine center. You can upgrade your service to enjoy Tibetan Culture Show in the evening (fr. 60USD)

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 18: Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery

In the morning, you are going to visit Drepung Monastery which is one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries of Tibet, founded in 1416 by Jamyang choge, one of the Tsongkhapa’s main disciples. You can visit biggest monastery kitchen inside the monastery and enjoy Buddhist Sculpture Carving workshop near Drepung.

In the afternoon, Tourists will visit Sera Monastery which is another one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries of Tibet. The hot attraction is the Monks debate at around 3 - 5 in the afternoon. In addition, you can tour the Tibetan religious scripture printing house; inside the monastery, you can see three sand Mandalas and colorful Rock Painting of Buddha.

Stay overnight in Lhasa

Day 19: Lhasa- Shigatse via Gyantse (360km)

In the morning, drive from Lhasa to Shigatse. On the way, drive over the Gampala pass (4790 m), and you will have a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso(4400m). The Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance, you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar(7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa.

Later, we will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside; at Manak Dam Lake, you can hang pray flag at Simila Mountain Pass; then, we will arrive in Gyantse, historically Tibet's third largest city (after Lhasa and Shigatse). In Gyantse, we will visit the famous Pelkor Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum and enjoy the far view of Gyangtse Fortress.

After one and a half driving, we arrive in Shigatse, which is the second largest city in Tibet. In Shigatse, we may visit traditional Barley Mill and view the landscape of Barley Field (in summer).

Stay overnight in Manasarovar Hotel

Day 20: Shigatse to EBC 350 km

In the morning, we will visit the home of Panchan Lama - Tashilunpo Monastery. Then, we’ll leave Shigatse after getting your Alien’s travel permit, and then drive to Lhatse, it is a small town where you can have lunch.

After that, we will pass Tsola Pass(4600M), and Gyatsola Pass(5248M). Shortly after we enter Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve, tourists can enjoy the panorama of Himalaya at Gawula Pass(5198m). Then we drive along the New zigzag road to Everest Base Camp(5200m). You can get closer to gazt at the Mt. Everest peak. The sunset of golden Everest peak if time and weather permit at the lodging area.

Stay overnight at Tent Guest House

Day 21: EBC - Saga (450km)

In the morning, we can enjoy the sunrise of Everest Peak at lodging area if weather permits; then As we head to saga, you can view of the worlds’14th highest peak Mt.Shishapangma (8012m), and Turquoise Lake Peiku tso(4590m). If you are lucky enough, you are very likely to see wild animals like wild donkey, wild antelope etc.

Stay overnight in Saga Xibuyizhan Hotel or Mu Linsen hotel

Day 22: Saga to Darchen, via Lake Manasarover (450km)

On the way to Darchen, you will have a chance to appreciate the stunning view of the Saga valley between the Gangdise Range and Himayala Range. Meanwhile, the beautiful grassland and local's villages can also be seen. As we cross the Mayoral Pass(5112M), you can enjoy the spectacular vista of Mt. Naimonanyi(7694M). Then we are supposed to pass by the holy Lake Manasarovar and finally arrive at the southern foot of Mt.Kailash, the holiest mountain in Tibet.

Stay overnight in Tarchen Chongqing Hotel

Day 23: Darchen - Drirapuk (driving 7km, Trek 13km)

In the morning, we are supposed to take eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung valley. Then we will meet Yaks and porters at Sarshung village. (the cost of hiring yaks, horses, and porters are not included in the package) After that, we can begin the trek (Around 13km) from Sarshung to Drirapuk Monastery along the Lachu valley and rivers. You can enjoy both west and north face of mountain Kailash today. Finally, we will visit Drirapuk Monastery.

Stay overnight in Guest House

Day 24: Drirapuk - Dzutrpuk (Trek 18km)

Today, we will trek over Dromala pass(5630m), the highest pass of the Kora. On the way you can have a rest in a teahouse. All the way, you can see locals Tibetans prostrating in the Kora path and beautiful Kadoe Lake when walking downhill. We may also visit Zutulpuk Monastery.

Stay overnight in Guest House

Day 25: Dzutripuk - Darchen (Trek 7km, driving 5km)

On the day three of the kora. you will trek 7km to Zongto where you can take bus to Darchen. Along the Kora, you can see piles of Mani Stones. We will end the Trek around noon, rest in the lodging place.

(Optional): Taking bath in Lake Manasarova and enjoy hot spring

Stay overnight in Tarchen Chongqing Hotel

Day 26: Darchen - Saga (450km)

Drive from Darchen to Saga via Lake Manasorova

Stay overnight in Saga Xibuyizhan Hotel or Mu Linsen hotel

Day 27: Saga to Gyirong County (102km)

In the morning, we keep moving southward to Gyriong County, close to Sino-Nepal border. The 102km’s ride takes around 5-6 hours. On the way, you can enjoy the tranquil Peiku-tso in the distance against snow-capped Mt. Shishapangma and enjoy the vibrant forest in the deep valley. We will arrive in Gyirong in the late afternoon.

Stay overnight in the guesthouse of Gyirong

Day 28: Exit China through Gyirong Border (2600m), Then Drive to Kathmandu

In the morning, drive clients to the Sino-Nepal border - Gyirong, tour guide will assist clients to check out of the border. After going through the immigration, Nepalese driver will pick you up at the border and drive to Kathmandu. The road to Kathmandu is bumpy but the scenery is quite beautiful, you can see the deep gorges, rivers all along the way. The road condition is rough in Nepal so this 160km road takes a whole day. Then you will be transferred to your hotel. Your guide will explain briefly the program upon arrival at the hotel.

Stay overnight in Kathmandu

Day 29: Arrival in Paro and Get Transferred to Thimpu (2300m) (2hrs’drive)

Welcome to Bhutan, the land of the “thunder Dragon”. We’re sure you must get amazed at the stunning vista of majestic Himalayas, esp. the lofty Mt. Jumolhari and Jichu Drake Peaks during your flight. However, they are only a small appetizer. Upon your arrival in Paro internatonal airport, our Bhutan guide and driver will be expecting you and later transfer you to your hotel.

After a brief rest at your hotel, in the afternoon, with time permitting, we may visit the Kyichu Lhakhang (also known as Kyerchu Temple), the oldest and most beautiful temple in Bhutan. Surrounded by the fields, flowers and hills, Kyichu Lhakhang is home to the eight-year-old Buddha statue of Sakyamuni, historic relics, elaborate paintings and numerous Buddhist scriptures, etc. And Later explore the Paro Rinpung Dzong. Located at the suburb of Paro City, Rinpung Dzong is a fortress built in the 17th Century to protect Paro valley, which offers you picturesque scenery and a sense of inner peace.

In the evening, we will head to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and spend the night there.

Stay overnight in Thimphu

Day 30: Sightseeing in Thimpu and Travel to Punakha (1250m) (3-4hrs’drive)

As the capital city of Bhutan, Thimpu is devoid of stereotyped skyscrapers and huge traffic. Instead, surrounding by rolling mountains, Thimpu is known for its picturesque Bhutan dzong, fresh air and loveable local people. Today’s tour begins with a visit to Late King's Memorial Chorten, and explore the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum and Hand-made Paper Factory, and the School of Arts and Crafts, where you will have a panoramic view of Bhutan history and learn more of textile and the handicraft making in the most traditional way.

Of course, the highlight comes as we tour the Tashichho Dzong (Thimpu Dzong), the most beautiful Bhutan dzong as well as the headquarters of Bhutan government. Later, we will travel northeast to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. On the way, we will stop at scenic Dochu La Pass (3,100m) for refreshing tea. The perfect vintage point brings you the unobstructed vista of Great Himalayas.

After lunch at Wangduephodrang (1,350m), we keep driving to Punakha.

Stay overnight in Punakha

Day 31: Sightseeing in Punakha Dzong and Drive back to Paro (1460m) (4 hrs’ drive)

Get up in the morning to visit Punakha Dzong, widely believed to be the most beautiful Bhutanese Dzong, built at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Rivers. Never miss the Punakha festival around mid-Feb if you come at the right time.

After touring Punakha, we are about to drive back to Paro. In the afternoon, we head to National Museum of Bhutan, which looks like a round watchtower. You can trace back to the ancient Bhutan history and explore the diverse wild lives as well as splendid local culture and arts. Then we drive to visit Drukgyel Dzong, where you can enjoy the enchanting village lying at its foot.

Stay overnight in Paro

Day 32: Trek to Taksang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest)

Getting up in the fresh morning, we’ll start today’s trek to Taktshang Goemba (also known as Tiger's Nest).Standing on the cliff of Paro Valley, Taktshang Goemba (3120 meters) is the landmark of Paro as well as the holiest temple in Bhutan. It’s said that Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche) had flied here on the back of a tigress and meditated in the caves on the cliffside for three months. From here, you can catch a panoramic view of Paro Valley.

After lunch, you may opt for a stone bath or enjoy free exploration nearby.

Stay overnight in Paro

Day 33: Departure from Paro

Today, our tour guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your next destination. Tour service ends.

Service Guide

Service Included:

  • Tibet travel permit and all other necessary permits to Tibet;
  • All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary;
  • Personal knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide;
  • Personal comfortable, clean and safe vehicle with reliable Tibetan local driver; vehicle ranging from 4WD land cruiser to minibus depending on your group size;
  • All lodging listed in the itinerary; it’s your decision about the accommodation class: luxury 5-star international hotel, comfortable 4-star hotel, economic 3-star hotel or budget hostel, guesthouse or tent. Please tell us your accommodation preference when submitting the enquiry; we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.
  • Domestic flight/train tickets listed in the itinerary;
  • All meals listed in the above itinerary;
  • Tourist accident/casualty insurance;
  • First aid kit;

Service Excluded:

  • International flight to and out of China;
  • Chinese visa (Note: we could help you with the Chinese visa application, like providing the invitation letter, presenting the hotel or domestic flight reservation copies, etc that you may need. )
  • Domestic flight/train not listed in the itinerary. (We can provide you the domestic flight/train ticket booking service at the BEST discount price; please contact us our travel experts for the details.)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary; usually it costs about USD3-15 per person for one meal in TAR (Tibet Autonomous Region).
  • Tips and gratitude to tour guide and driver;
  • Personal expenses, like laundry, phone call, snacks, soft drinks (please do the best to avoid the alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.

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