Trip Facts
Summary
This three-week journey follows the great arc of the Himalayas, weaving together the vibrant cultures of Nepal, the spiritual landscapes of Tibet, and the serene beauty of Bhutan. From ancient palaces and sacred stupas to turquoise lakes and high mountain monasteries, the trip balances cultural immersion, gentle adventure, and unforgettable panoramas.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Airport pickup and hotel transfer.
- Evening stroll in Thamel and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Heritage
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.
- Afternoon in Bhaktapur, exploring palace squares and traditional crafts.
Day 3: Kathmandu Free Day
- Optional visit to Patan or day trip to Nagarkot for Himalayan views.
- Preparation for Tibet journey.
Day 4: Fly Kathmandu – Lhasa
- Scenic flight over the Himalayas into Tibet.
- Light acclimatization walk in the Barkhor old town.
Day 5: Lhasa Exploration
- Visit Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
- Walk around Barkhor Street with Tibetan pilgrims.
Day 6: Monastic Traditions
- Excursion to Drepung and Sera Monasteries.
- Observe monks’ debates at Sera.
Day 7: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Gyantse
- Drive across high mountain passes to Yamdrok Lake.
- Continue to Gyantse to visit Kumbum Stupa and Pelkor Monastery.
Day 8: Gyantse – Shigatse
- Journey to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
- Explore Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama.
Day 9: Shigatse – Everest North Base Camp
- Drive through spectacular landscapes to Rongbuk Monastery.
- Sunset views of Mount Everest from the Tibetan side.
Day 10: Everest – Shigatse – Lhasa
- Sunrise at Everest Base Camp.
- Return journey via Shigatse to Lhasa for overnight.
Day 11: Fly Lhasa – Paro, Drive to Thimphu
- Scenic arrival in Bhutan.
- Evening visit to Buddha Dordenma statue.
Day 12: Thimphu Exploration
- Visit Tashichho Dzong, Folk Heritage Museum, and local markets.
- Evening walk through Bhutan’s charming capital.
Day 13: Thimphu – Dochula Pass – Punakha
- Cross Dochula Pass for Himalayan views.
- Arrive in Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong and suspension bridge.
Day 14: Punakha - Trongsa
- Hike to Chimi Lhakhang (fertility temple).
- Explore rice terraces and riverside villages.
Day 15: Punakha – Trongsa
- Explore majestic Trongsa Dzong
- Historic museum
- Overnight in Trongsa town
Day 16: Trongs – Bumthang
- Scenic drive to Bhutan’s cultural heartland.
- Stop at roadside temples and villages.
Day 17: Bumthang Valley
- Visit Kurjey Lhakhang and Jambay Lhakhang.
- Explore weaving centers and local dairy farms.
Day 18: Bumthang Exploration
- Day hikes to remote monasteries.
- Free evening to enjoy the peaceful valley.
Day 19: Fly or Drive Bumthang – Paro
- Return to Paro.
- Leisure afternoon with optional hot-stone bath.
Day 20: Tiger’s Nest Monastery & Departure
- Full-day hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
- Farewell dinner and departure from Paro International Airport.
Day 21: Return flight
Return to Home country from Paro airport.
About the company
Travel Himalaya is a Travel Operator registered in Switzerland. We are a family-owned, female-led travel agency with strong ties to the countries in the Himalayas. We are known for quality, good value, fairness and for offering unique experiences that we enjoy as travellers ourselves. All our tours are tailored to your individual interests and travel preferences.
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