Architectural Wonders Of The Himalayas – 12 Days

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Thimphu, the vibrant capital city of Bhutan. Your journey begins with a picturesque drive along the winding road that follows the beautiful Paro River.

Experience the grandeur of Tashichho Dzong, also known as ‘The Fortress of the Dharma Raja.’ It has traditionally been the seat of the Druk Desi, the head of Bhutan’s civil government.

Note: Tashichho Dzong is open during weekdays after office hours (5pm onwards) and from 9am to 5pm on weekends.

On the second day, experience the heart of Bhutanese culture and tradition as you explore these remarkable sites in Thimphu. Visit the Memorial Chorten (Buddhist funeral monument) and enjoy panoramic city views from Changangkha Lhakhang Temple. Explore the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s unique national animal.

Discover ancient texts at the National Library of Bhutan and witness traditional crafts at the School of Art and Handicraft, renowned for its Thangka paintings and mud statues. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Bhutan’s capital city.

Today, your journey continues with a personalized exploration of Thimphu before we head to the enchanting town of Paro. Our first stop is the historic Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, believed to guard the region against evil spirits. Its name translates to ‘Atop a Demon’. This historical site also houses the Rigney School for Dzongkha and monastic studies, attended by both monks and laypeople.

As we drive through picturesque landscapes, we’ll make our way to Paro, where you’ll be captivated by the majestic Paro Dzong, also known as Ringpung Dzong, meaning ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’. This magnificent structure is a prime example of Bhutanese architecture and one of the most renowned dzongs in the country.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture as you explore these significant landmarks.

Embark on a memorable hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as ‘Tiger’s Nest’, perched on a cliff at 3,000 meters above Paro. This iconic site, a symbol of Bhutan, is where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in one of its thirteen caves. Experience breathtaking views and spiritual tranquility during this enriching journey.

Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest Himalayan Buddhist temples, built in the 7th century near Paro Airport. Explore the serene grounds and soak in the profound cultural and spiritual significance of this sacred site.

Savor every moment as you delve into the spiritual and historical richness of Paro on this unforgettable day.

After breakfast transfer to Paro Airport for your flight to Kathmandu.

The city of Kathmandu is a melting pot for the nation’s population and its unique architectural heritage, palaces, temples, and courtyards have inspired many writers, artists, and poets, both foreign and Nepalese. It boasts a unique symbiosis of Hinduism, Buddhism and Tantrism in its culture, which is still as alive today as it was hundreds of years ago. Religious influence can only be seen in the city.

Explore the vegetable and spice market in Ason, its many courtyards, and bustling bazaars. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Also visit Swayambhunath Stupa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as the Self-Created Stupa.

After breakfast at your hotel, set out to explore the captivating city of Kathmandu, followed by visits to the Swayambhunath Stupa and the artistic city of Patan.

Start your day at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Durbar” means “palace,” and this historic square was once the royal palace of the Malla Dynasty. Explore its small courtyards and shrines, with the temple of the living goddess, Kumari, being a highlight. The Kumari Devi often appears on the temple’s balcony during ceremonial processions and festivals. A short walk through a vibrant alley will take you to an old part of Kathmandu, now a bustling vegetable and spice market.

In the evening visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of Kathmandu’s most imposing and significant landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a center of Tibetan Buddhism and is built on a massive three-level mandala. As one of the largest stupas in the world, it attracts countless visitors. Surrounding the stupa, you’ll find shops offering a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and exclusive Tibetan specialties and delicacies.

After breakfast at your hotel, set out to explore Patan, known as the city of artisans and a paradise of fine arts. Patan is home to the valley’s finest craftsmen who have preserved the ancient repoussé technique, creating exquisite sculptures by turning, chiseling, and hammering sheets of metal. The city retains much of its old-world charm with its narrow streets, brick houses, and numerous courtyards, or “bahals,” filled with Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries.

Stroll through the narrow streets to the heart of the city, Patan Durbar Square. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its ancient palaces, pagoda temples, stone baths, statues, engravings, and bronze carvings. One of the main attractions is the Royal Palace, where the Malla Kings once resided. The Patan Museum, also located here, showcases an impressive collection of traditional crafts and artworks.

After breakfast, head out to Bhaktapur, medieval town of Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, the ‘City of Devotees.’ Located on the Araniko Highway, connecting Kathmandu to the Chinese border, Bhaktapur transports visitors back in time with its traditional art and architecture, historical monuments, rich culture, pottery, and numerous festivals.

Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved temples and palaces from the Malla Dynasty. Despite the damage caused by the earthquake in April 2015, the square retains its charm and historical significance.

Visit the Nyatapola Temple, Bhairavnath Temple, The Golden Gate, and Taumadhi Tole, each offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, one of Nepal’s holiest Hindu shrines. Located on the sacred banks of the Bagmati River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is primarily a cremation site for Hindus, where the deceased are cremated by their eldest sons, and their ashes are then swept into the Bagmati River, eventually joining the Holy Ganges. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the god of destruction, this temple, built in 1696, features a gilded roof and intricately carved silver doors. While access to the shrine is limited to Hindus, others can view the temple from the east bank of the river.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Lhasa. Upon arrival at Gonggar Airport (3570m) in Lhasa, you will be met and assisted by our representative. After checking in to the hotel, rest for most of the day.

Lhasa is a city of wonders that contains many culturally significant Tibetan Buddhist religious sites and lies in a valley next to the Lhasa River.

After breakfast, visit Sera and Drepung Monastery.

Founded in 1419, Sera Monastery is one of the “great three” Gelukpa university monasteries in Tibet. 5km north of Lhasa, the Sera Monastery’s setting is one of the prettiest in Lhasa. The Drepung Monastery houses many cultural relics, making it more beautiful and giving it more historical significance.

Today, visit Potala Palace, Jokhang, Norbulinka and Barkhor Market.

Potala Palace, the chief residence of the Dalai Lama since the 7th century has been the focus of travelers for centuries. It is the cardinal landmark and a structure of massive proportion. It symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism and its role in the traditional administration of Tibet.

Norbulingka means ‘Treasure Park’ in Tibetan and is situated in the western suburb of Lhasa City, on the bank of the Kyichu River, about one kilometer southwest of the Potala Palace. It is the biggest man-made garden in Tibet. Jokhang Temple also houses many invaluable cultural relics. Every year, the Great Prayer Festival is held here.

Visit Barkhor Street, the oldest street in Lhasa and runs through the center of the old city. It is a circular street where Tibetan culture, economy, religion and arts assemble.

After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu take your flight back home.