RAVEN’S KATHMANDU-BHUTAN-SIKKIM TRIP
Day 1 – Arrive at Kathmandu International Airport.
When you arrive at the Kathmandu airport, our representative will greet you with typical Nepali tradition and will drive you to the hotel where you will be staying.
Later in the evening you will be taken to the typical Nepali restaurant (Bhojan Grihia) for dinner and will be hosting traditional dances.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2 – Kathmandu to Pokhara
Morning visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square – is an assortment of pagoda and shikhara-style temples grouped around a fifty-five-window palace of brick and wood. The square is part of a charming valley as it highlights the idols of ancient kings perched on top of stone monoliths, the guardian deities looking out from their sanctuaries, the wood carvings in ver place – struts, lintels, tympanums, gateways and windows – all seem to form a well orchestrated symphony.
Patan Durbar Square – The ancient city is situated on the southern bank of the river Bagmati and is about five kms southeast of Kathmandu. The city is full of Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples with fine bronze gateways, guardian deities and wonderful carvings. Noted for its craftsmen and metal workers,it is known as the city of artists. Patan is the oldest of the three ancient city-kingdoms of the Kathmandu valley which once ruled by the mallas.
Pashupatinath – The temple of Pashupatinath, or Pashupati, is located in Deopatan, a little town 3 km northwest of Kathmandu. It is a Hindu temple, dedicated to a manifestation of Shiva called Pashupati (Lord of Animals). It attracts thousands of pilgrims each year and has become well known far beyond the Kathmandu Valley.
The temple is barred to non-Hindus, but a good view of the temple compound’s inner courtyard can be had from Shleshmantak hill on the opposite (eastern) bank of the Bagmati river. The Bagmati River, which runs next to Pashaputinath Temple, has highly sacred properties. Thus the banks are lined with many ghats (bathing spots) for use by pilgrims and also a cremation site.
Later in the afternoon take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.(35 minutes flight)
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 3 – In Pokhara
Morning visit Sarangkot: At an altitude of 1592 meters, this mountain sits north of Pokhara overlooking the valley and Fewa Tal. Just a short 2 hour scenic trek through small villages and jungle from the main tourist area of Pokhara, or a 45 minute taxi ride.
Sarangkot is a beautiful village best known for its sunrise, where on a clear day you can see an unobstructed view of the Himalayan Mountains of Annapurna rang, Dhauligiri, Fishtail.
Another main attraction to Sarangkot is to spend an hour in the sky paragliding with fantastic views of the mountains and the city below.
To experience true Nepali culture, take a 3 hour tour around Sarangkot and meet the locals and see how they live.
Later visit the Santi Stupa, a massive Buddhist stupa which is situated on top of a hill on the southern shore of Phewa lake in Pokhara. Besides being an impressive sight in itself, the scene is a great advantage point which offers spectacular views of the Annapurna range, holy Mount Macchapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and Pokhara city.
Overnight in Pokhara
Day 4 – Pokhara to Lumbini
Morning after breakfast drive from Pokhara to Lumbini by private transport.
Overnight in Lumbini.
Day 5 – In Lumbini
Lumbini (Sanskrit for “the lovely”) is a Buddhist pilgrimage site located at the Nepalese town of Kapilavastu, district Rupandehi, near the Indian border.
Lumbini is one of four Buddhist pilgrimage sites based on major events in the life of Gautama Buddha. Interestingly, all of the events occurred under trees. The other three sites are in India: Bodh Gaya (enlightenment), Sarnath (first discourse), and Kushinagar (death).
Lumbini is the traditional birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, who was born in the 7th or 6th century BC. According to Buddhist tradition, Maya Devi (or Mayadevi) gave birth to the Buddha on her way to her parent’s home in Devadaha in the month of May in the year 642 BC. Feeling the onset of labor pains, she grabbed hold of the branches of a shade tree and gave birth to Siddharta Gautama, the future Buddha.
The Buddha is said to have announced, “This is my final rebirth” as he entered the world. Buddhist tradition also has it that he walked immediately after his birth and took seven steps, under each of which a lotus flower bloomed.
Overnight in Lumbini
Day 6 – Lumbini – Chitwan National Park
After breakfast transfer from Lumbini to Chitwan by bus. Overnight in a Jungle Resort in Chitwan National Park.
Overnight in the Park.
Day 7 – In Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is a main attraction in Nepal. This National Park is regarded as the best National Park of Nepal, and is also the most developed one. Elephant Breeding Center, sunset at the Rapti River and the Crocodile Farm are must see locations in the park.
You will journey into the deep forest riding on elephant back, and be able to witness the preserved natural assets of Nepal like birds, flora and fauna. World’s one of the most endangered species, Bengal Tigers are found in Nepal, and many of them in Chitwan National Park. If it’s your day, you might see them too.
The other major animal you will see is the one-horned rhinos whose famous place to live on earth is none other than Nepal. The park is also famous for bird watching, and boat tours.
Chitwan is also a place to learn about ethnic Nepali people called “Tharu”. The traditional Tharu dances and songs are performed in the evening and we will visit one of these interesting local cultural events.
Activities included in our Chitwan program are: elephant ride, canoe tour, jungle walk, village walk, bird watching and Tharu Cultural program.
Overnight in the Park.
Day 8 – Chitwan National Park – Kathmandu
Transfer from Chitwan to Kathmandu.
Later visit, Boudhanath Stupa (or Bodnath Stupa) is the largest stupa in Nepal. It is also the center of Tibetan culture in Kathmandu and rich in Buddhist symbolism and sacred importance. The stupa is located in the town of Boudha on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu.
The main entrance to the upper platform of Bodnath Stupa is on the north side. Here Amoghasiddhi, progenitor of the future Buddha, presides. Below Amoghasiddhi is the Buddha Maitreya, the future Buddha. Surrounding Bodnath Stupa are streets and narrow alleys lined with colorful homes, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, and street vendors.
Swayambunath: Perched atop a forested hill on the western edge of the Kathmandu Valley, Swayambunath Stupa is Kathmandu‘s most important Buddhist shrine. The sleepy, all-seeing Buddha’s eyes that stare out from the top of this hemispherical shrine have become the quintessential symbol of Nepal.
The pilgrim’s route to the Swayambunath Stupa is a steep stone staircase of more than 300 steps, often claimed as 365. Leading up to the Swayambunath gate are walls into which are set dozens of copper prayer wheels, inside of which are thousands of Tibetan Buddhist prayers. Buddhists gain a better standing in their next life by saying as many prayers or mantras as possible, and it is believed that when each prayer wheel is spun, all the prayers inside are recited and sent heavenward.
Swayambunath is also known as the Monkey Temple, and as you start up the hill, you will likely begin to see the monkeys that lend the stupa this alternate name.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 9 – Depart from Kathmandu Airport to Bhutan.
Arrive at Paro Airport and then drive to the capital city Thimphu. Altitude: 2320m/ 7656ft above sea level.(1 hour 30 minutes drive)
The flight into the Himalayas reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt Everest (8848m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan mountain ranges. After checking into the hotel later visit,
Zorig Chusum Institute: The 13 arts and Crafts institute. The two main objectives of the institute are a) to preserve and promote the traditional arts and crafts and b) to create job opportunities for the underprivileged group of the society.
Textile museum: It was established with the aim of preserving and promoting Bhutanese textile arts.
Paper factory: The handmade paper making in Bhutan stemmed from the age old tradition originated in 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes as valuable National heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and is preserved through all the ages. The Traditional paper is recognized and held high esteem both in home and outside world.
Memorial Chorten: This particular chorten was constructed in 1974 as a memorial for the third King of the country, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is widely regarded as the father of modern Bhutan.
Mini zoo: Here you can see just one animal – Bhutan’s national animal- the Takin. This is an extremely rare member of the goat family. Found in herds in the very high altitudes (13,125ft and over). They live on a diet of grass and bamboo.
Sangaygang View Point: The view point is also the perfect place to take in some truly breathtaking views of the entire city of Thimpu and also later visit Kuenselcholing hilltop where the largest Buddha in the world is being built.
Tashichho Dzong : The names means – Means Fortress of Glorious Religion. It was built in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room and the office of the king, and the central monk body.
In the evening if you wish, Raven Tours and Treks can make arrangements under your request to take you to enjoy the recent trends of the younger Bhutanese, who spend their evenings in the discotheques, or in the entertaining hubs where there are live performances of Bhutanese songs and dances (traditional and modern) by the best Bhutanese bands. If you wish you can even test your singing talents in the bars that offer Karaoke.
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 10 – In Thimphu
Morning visit the weekend market: Held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the people crowd the stalls every day, dressed in full colour and gathered to meet and to barter, much like the street markets in London!
Later take a hike to Cheri Monastery(Includes Dodina and Jigme Dorji Wild life Sanctuary): Hike about 1hrs(to and fro) leds to Cheri Goemba (Cheri Dorji Dhen). Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this monastery in 1620 and established the first monk body here. A chance to spot birds such as Mrs Gould’s Sunbird, Yellow-browed Tit, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Long-billed Thrush, Ultramarine Flycatcher.
Folk Heritage museum: It was inaugurated by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, who is the founder and patron of the Museum, on 28th July 2001.It is dedicated to connecting people to the Bhutanese rural past through exhibition of its items and artifacts used in rural households.
Thangtong Dewachen(Nunnery): It was founded in 1976 by Rikey Jadrel, who is considered as emanation of Thangthong Gyalpo(1363 – 1485), the builder of numerous iron chain bridges across the Himalayas.
Later just stroll around the city and see how local live and do some shopping.
Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 11 – Thimphu to Trongsa. Altitude: 2200m /7260ft above sea level.(5 hours drive)
Morning driving towards Trongsa(, we come across a pass known as Dochula (3140m, 10362ft from where a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range can be seen, especially in clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens- a 108 stupas built by the eldest Queen, Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.
Overnight in Trongsa.
Day 12 – Trongsa to Bumthang. Altitude: 2600m/ 8580ft above sea level.(3 hours drive)
Morning visit, Trongsa Dzong: It was built by Chhogyel Mingyur Tempa (sent by Zhabdrung to unify Eastern Bhutan to bring under the rule of the Desi) in the year 1644The dzong dominates the horizon, dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Both the First and the Second King ruled the country from this Dzong. And also visit the Trongsa Museum.
Later drive to Bumthang valley.
On the way visit Hand Loom shops.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 13 – In Bumthang
Morning visit, Jakar Dzong :The Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549 by the great grandfather of the Zhabdrung.
Jambay Lhakhang: It is one of the 108 monasteries built by King Songtsen Goenpo in the 8th century to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region.
Kurjey Lhakhang: Means body print. It dates back to 8th century when Guru Rimpoche first visited Bhutan. It is after his visit to the Monyul (country in the darkness); Buddhism was introduced in the country.
Then hike across to Tamzhing Lhakhang: “Temple of good message”. It was built by Terton Pema Lingpa (Treasure Discoverer) in 1501AD. We can see the paintings done by him on the wall and an iron jacket which was also made by him.
Mebar Tsho(Lake of Burning Fire):This is a sacred lake for Bhutanese who believe that Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures from this lake in the 12th century.
Later stroll around the town.
Overnight in Bumthang.
Day 14 – Bumthang to Gangtey. Altitude: 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level (5 hours drive)
Morning visit Ogyen Choling Palace: It is a village in the Tang valley of Bumthang district. It is located on a commanding spur at an elevation of 3000m, on the east side of the Tang Chu. Visitors have to cross the Tangchu suspension bridge near Kizom and climb up to the village on foot. The trek takes about 45 minutes. Kizom is approximately 33 km from Jakar. The palace has been converted in a museum these days.
Later drive to Gangtey.
Overnight in Gangtey.
Day 15 – Gangtey to Punakha. Altitude: 1350m/4455ft above sea level.(1hour 30 minutes drive)
Morning visit the Phobjikha Visitor Centre: This is the crane information centre. Stopping here first also ensures that visitors become aware of the codes of conducts for the conservation area.
Later we will go for a Gangtey Nature Trail: (Duration: Half day: two hours at a quicker pace): This is one of the most beautiful and shortest of the existing nature trail. In this trail you have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Goemba(Monastery), it also leads to sloping area of green grass, flanked by pine trees on either side. You will even come across some villages, rivers, crane roosting ground.
Later drive to Punakha valley
Overnight in Punakha.
Day 16 – Punakha to Paro. Altitude: 2280m/ 7524ft above sea level(4 hours drive)
Morning visit, Punakha Dzong (fortress): Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung which is remarkably located between the rivers of Mo (Female) Chu (river) and Pho (Male) Chu. Until the time of second king it served as a seat of the king.
Chimi Lhakhang(Temple of fertility): This Temple was built by lam Drukpa Kuenley (The Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about thirty minutes hike across fields from the road –Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of the houses and also phalluses are painted on the walls of houses. It is the common belief that this helps in driving away evil spirits.
Later drive to Paro valley
Later visit, Ta Dzong: This means – watch tower, which it served as during the 17th century to guard the region from the Tibetan invasion. It was converted to the National Museum in 1968.
Rimpung Dzong: Means fortress of the heap of jewels. It was built during the time of Zhabdrung (deeply revered to this day as dynamic political and spiritual leader) in 1644It is also the venue for the Paro festival (Tsechu.
Kichu Lhakhang(Monastery): It is one of the two most sacred and the oldest temples in Bhutan. It was built in 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.
Overnight in Paro.
Day 17 – In Paro
Hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s nest): This is Bhutan’s most recognizable cultural icon perched 800m/2640ft up a seemingly sheer cliff. Although it was tragically and mysteriously consumed by fire in April 1998 it has now been restored to its former glory. It is believed that in the 8th century, the great tantric master Guru Rimopche/ Padmasambhava (2nd Buddha) flew on the back of a tigress to the site where the monastery now stands. Three hours hike(to and fro)
Visit Farmhouse: Eating, taking bath and staying for a night at a local farmhouse gives a different variation, and a chance to see the inside of such a home, rather than just the brightly decorated exteriors.
Later stroll around the town and see how locals live.
Overnight in Paro
Day 18 – Depart from Paro to Phuentsholing
Your Bhutanese representative from Raven Tours and Treks will greet you on arrival from the Indian Border and through Phuentsholing to the hotel where you will be staying.
Phuentsholing, the “gateway to Bhutan ” in the south-west of Bhutan, is the only land border which grants access to the country. 90% of trade in Bhutan is with India and is conducted through this town. Phuentsholing is approximately 170km east of the Indian national airport Bagdogra, near Darjeeling, and 180km from the capital city Thimphu, a drive of around eight hours. Phuentsholing being the border town has an Indian character and taste, even though it tries to maintain Bhutanese way of living.
Morning drive to the border town with India known as Phuentsholing(6 hours drive).
The road descends from Paro to Phuentsholing and you will witness some of the most fascinating views of the Himalayan mountain ranges available during the day, and take in the wide variety of fauna and flora along the roadside. You will also notice the sudden change in altitude, temperature and vegetation that heralds the beginning of a truly memorable stay in our country from the foot hills, passing through many villages and spectacular landscape. (6-7 hrs drive)
On the way visit Kharbandhi Goemba.
Overnight in Phuentsholing.
Day 19 – Depart from Phuentsholing to Sikkim(India).
Early breakfast at the hotel and then drive to the border town for exit formalities.
Meet the guide at the border town and drive to Darjeeling. (140 km / 06 hrs.)
Overnight in Darjeeling.
Day 20 – In Darjeeling
Early morning tour of Tiger Hills (at around 4 am) to view sunrise over Kanchenjunga Peak (subject to clear weather). On way back visit Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop. Afternoon visit to Himalayan Zoological Park (Closed on Thursday), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Gumbu Rock site and Tibetan Refugee self-help (Closed on Sunday) Center.
Overnight Darjeeling.
Day 21 – Darjeeling to Gangtok: After B/Fast Transfer from Darjeeling to Gangtok on the way (Optional White River Rafting at Testa River) ( 115km, 04 hrs).
Overnight in Gangtok.
Day 22 – In Gangtok
Early morning sightseeing of Rumtek Monastery-the principal seat of Karma pa out of Tibet and the largest one in Sikkim, and go to Kanchejunga View Point, Drul-Chorten ,Sikkim Research Institute of Tibet logy, handicraft centers and check in hotel at Gangtok.
Evening Free to explore Gangtok.
Overnight in Gangtok.
Day 23 - Gangtok to Kalimpong
After breakfast transfer from Gangtok to Kalimpong on the (Optional White River Rafting at Testa (2hrs 7Kms) continue drive to Kalimpong check in hotel then Go for a sightseeing of Dello hills, Dr. Graham_s Home, Jang-Dong-Palriffo Brang, and Durbin Dara Hills.
Overnight in Kalimpong.
Day 24 – Depart from kalimpong
Early morning, drive to your destination either Bagdogra Airport/ NJP Station Trips for your next destination.
Inclusion on the Tour
- All sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary.
- Experienced English Speaking Tour Guide
- Accommodation in the hotels mentioned or similar.
- Private transport (Toyota coach / Tucson / Santafe / Land cruiser / Prado) as per itinerary.
- All entry fees to monuments.
- All applicable taxes.
- All applicable airfares in economy class (Kolkata – Bagdogra & Paro – Katmandu)
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) in Darjeeling, Gangtok and Bhutan.
- Only breakfast in Kathmandu, Nagarkot and Pokhara.
- Visa fee for Bhutan
- Bhutan – Kathmandu flight fare
- Pokhara – Kathmandu –Pokhara flight fare.
Exclusion on the Tour
-
- Any airport taxes
- Any meals other than those already mentioned.
- Bank fee = USD25 only.
- Gratuities, bar bills, telephone bills, personal expenses and laundry.
- Any other services not mentioned.
HOTELS TO BE USED:
| CITY | HOTELS | CATEGORY | NIGHTS | WEBSITE ADDRESS |
| KATHMANDU | HOTEL MANASLU | 3 STAR | 2 | www.hotelmanaslu.com |
| POKHARA | HOTEL BARAHAI | 3 STAR | 2 | www.barahi.com |
| LUMBINI | BUDDHAMAYA GARDEN | 3 STAR | 2 | www.ktmgh.com/buddha |
| CHITWAN | HOTEL PARK SIDE | 3 STAR | 2 | www.hotelparkside.com |
| THIMPHU | HOTEL MIGMAR | 3 STAR | 2 | www.hotelmigmar.bt |
| TRONGSA | HOTEL YANGKHIL | 3 STAR | 1 | |
| BUMTHANG | JAKAR VILLAGE LODGE | 3 STAR | 2 | www.wix.com/jakarvillagelodge/bhutan |
| GANGTEY | HOTEL DEWACHEN | 3 STAR | 1 | www.dewachenhotel.com |
| PUNAKHA | PUNATSHAGCHHU COTTAGES | 3 STAR | 1 | www.punatshangchhucottages.com |
| PARO | HOTEL SONAM TROPHEL | 3 STAR | 2 | www.sonamtrophelhotel.com |
| PHUENTSHOLING | ROYAL ORCHID | 3 STAR | 1 | www.royalorchidbhutan.com |
| DARJEELING | HOTEL SEVEN SEVENTEEN | 3 STAR | 2 | www.hotel717.com |
| KALIMPONG | Holumba Haven Resort | 3 STAR | 1 | www.holumba.com |
| GANGTOK | HOTEL MINTOKLING | 3 STAR | 2 | www.mintokling.com |
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