Duration
28 Nights / 29 Days
Routing
Delhi – Varanasi – Khajuraho – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Delhi– Paro – Timphu – Punakha – Trongsa – Bumthang – Gangtey – Paro – Kathmandu – Pokhara – Chitwan - Nagarkot - Kathmandu Departure
Delhi
Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, Shah Jahan, rickshaw ride, India Gate, President's House, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar
Varanasi
Evening Arti at Dasaswamedh Ghat, Sarnath Dhamekh Stup, Dharmarajika Stupa, Ashoka Pillar,
Khajuraho
Khajuraho temples, Kamasutra, En route Orchha Fort complex, Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Ram Raja temple
Agra
Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad Ud Daulah, Sinakdra, En route Fatehpur Sikri, Emperor Akbar's Residential complex, Mosque &Tomb of Salim Chisti, Abhaneri Caves
Ranthambore
Ranthambore National Park, Black Buck
Jaipur
City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal
Timphu
TachogangLhakhang, TashichhoDzong, Kuensel Phodrang, National Memorial Chorten, MotithangTakinPreserve
Punakha
Dochula Pass, PunakhaDzong
Trongsa
Trongsa Dzong, Cheokhor Rabdents
Bumthang
Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang, Chimi Lhakhang
Gangthey
Gangtey Goemba, Phobjikha valley
Paro
Simtokha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Dumtse lhakang, impung Dzhong
Kathmandu
Kathmandu Valley, Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the holiest temple of Lord Shiva, Boudhanath Stupa, which is one of the most important site for Buddhists
Swoyambhunath Stupa, also known as the Money Temple, Patan Durbar Square, known as the city of artisans, Khokna & Bugmati, outskirts of Kathmandu
Chitwan
Naturalist to view the enchanting wildlife. Elephant Safari, Culture Dance Show
Canoe Ride, Witness of daily life of locals, etc..
Pokhara
Pokhara Valley, Visit to Sarangkot for Himalayan sunrise & mesmerizing sceneries, Boating in Fewa Lake
Chitwan
Naturalist to view the enchanting wildlife, Elephant Safari, Culture Dance Show
Canoe Ride, Witness of daily life of locals, etc..
Nagarkot
Highland with Sunrise, Kirtipur, one of the oldest town in Kathmandu, Visit to Thamel, the center of tourist area in Nepal.
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive by International flight, after traditional Indian style ‘Swagat’ (Welcome) by Exceptional Escapes representative, he would assist you at the airport & transfer to hotel for check in.
Delhi takes pride in being the capital of the country for many dynasties. It is in fact a city wrapped in legend, where time flows differently, and where every moment becomes a moment of history. A vibrant melting pot, it encapsulates two very different worlds, the 'old' and the 'new', each representing delectably different experiences. Come experience it...
Overnight Hotel – Delhi
Day 02: Delhi
Post breakfast start your day with a private guided city of Old Delhi
Old Delhi:
Raj Ghat, memorial to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation20on 31 January 1948.
Continue the 17th century walled city of Shah Jahanabad, the great Jama Masjid, the principal mosque of Old Delhi. Built in the year 1656 AD by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it is the largest & best known mosque in India.
Experience the rickshaw ride ‘a friendly local guides takes you through the bustling streets for an authentic glimpse of the ‘walled city’ in the heart of Delhi. As you travel by foot and rickshaw, explore KhariBaoli, Spice Market, Visit a Sikh temple & admire historical land mark and more…
Post lunch Continue private guided tour of
New Delhi:
Drive past India Gate, and memorial built in the year 1931 to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the World War I & the Afghan Wars. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls.
President's House, the official residence of the President of India, built in the year 1931. Until 1950 it was known as Viceroy's House & served as the residence of the Governor-General of British India.
Humayun's Tomb, memorial of Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in the year 1562. The complex is a World Heritage Site & the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India.
Qutub Minar built in the year 1206 by Qutub-ud-din Aibek. It is the tallest (72m) brick minaret in the world, an important example of Indo-Islamic Architecture. QutubMinar& its monuments are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy rest of the free time enjoy light sightseeing of Delhi & shopping at some High end Fashion stores of South Delhi – One of the most happening places of Delhi. Visit Craft Emporiums etc with our shopping expert.
Overnight Hotel – Delhi (B)
Day 03: Delhi – Varanasi {Flight Details}
Post breakfast, transfer to airport to board the flight Varanasi. Upon arrival transfer to hotel. Varanasi, picturesquely situated on the banks of holy river Ganga. The city is the Oldest Living City of the World & traces of its existence are found around 10000 BC. Other than being a very holy city for Hindus, it also holds a very significant association with Buddha's life & Buddhism.
Evening Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat. (Not to Miss activities, highly recommended)
The Aarti ceremony – one of the most popular and important rituals of the Hindu faith. Hear temple bells ring out as pilgrims chant and pray before a row of young Brahman priests who wave flaming oil lamps in worship of the Ganges. Watching this scene from the river is unforgettable!
Rest of the day leisure to explore the local market of Varanasi & shop famous Banarasi saris.
Overnight Hotel – Varanasi (B)
Day 04: Varanasi
Start your DAY with a private boat ride on the river Ganges. Rise before dawn & step gingerly in the boat as the boatman starts rowing the boat. Witness the daily miracle to unfold, as the Sun appears triumphantly over the horizon. The sound of conches & temple bells add to the delicate pink fabric of dawn. The formerly hushed murmuring of ancient Sanskrit Shlokas (hymns) now rise, in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety & joy.
Later we explore the city by foot to get the feel of this oldest living city of the world
Also visit Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganga. It is believed that a dead human's soul finds salvation, when cremated here.
The holy city of Varanasi in India's northern Uttar Pradesh state is the gateway to salvation, so goes a Hindu belief. Fuelled by such faith, thousands over the last many centuries have travelled to Varanasi, also called Kashi, with a desire to die there. Dying in Varanasi is supposed to break the cycle of death and rebirth. Once one dies in Varanasi, he or she is never reborn, and thus attains salvation.
Later excursion to Sarnath; the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon about the basic principles of Buddhism. It has been a premier centre for Buddhism & has a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics & antiques comprising numerous Buddha & Bodhisattva images on display at the Archaeological Museum (Closed on Fridays)
Dhamekh Stupa; an imposing 33 m high cylindrical Stupa & the most impressive sight in Sarnath, built around the year 500 AD. It is suggested that this Stupa has close association with the Buddha’s Dhamma (the teachings of Buddha which lead to enlightenment).
Dharmarajika Stupa, built by Emperor Ashoka is now in ruins & consists of a circular base. It was believed to be built by Ashoka to enshrine the bodily relics of Lord Buddha at the time of his re-distributing the relics from the seven original Stupas & enshrining them in a number of other Stupas at different places.
Ashoka Pillar, reduced to just 2 m high, stands in ruins but the original Pillar was 15 m high & crowned with the magnificent Lion Capital that can be seen in Sarnath Museum. This Pillar is believed to mark the site where Buddha assembled the Sangha (ordained Buddhist monks or nuns) comprising 60 Arahants (highly spiritually evolved Buddhist)& exhorted them to go in different directions to spread the Teaching. On the pillar is an inscription, which says, “Let no one cause a division in the Sangha”.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Varanasi (B)
Day 05: Varanasi – Khajuraho {Flight Details}
Post breakfast late morning transfer to airport to board the flight to Khajuraho, upon arrival transfer to hotel. Khajuraho, built between 950-1050 AD by the mighty warrior kings of the Chandela dynasty, a truly inspired burst of creativity. Contain stunningly explicit erotic sculptures. They were rediscovered in the 20th century, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Later guided sightseeing of Khajuraho visiting visit Khajuraho temples, famous for the magnificent carvings depicting numerous exotic postures of the famous Kamasutra, ancient Indian work on sex. Only 22 temples survive of the 85 originally built. In fact, worship is still done today in the Matangeshwara temple, continuing an unbroken 1000 year tradition.
Evening is FREE for independent activity.
Overnight Hotel – Khajuraho (B)
Day 06: Khajuraho – Jhansi via Orcha (174 Kms / 3-4 Hrs)
Jhansi – Agra (Train Schedule)
Post breakfast Morning FREE at leisure.
Later driven to Jhansi en-route visiting Orchha Fort complex Within the Fort complex we visit Jahangir Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orchha.
Raj Mahal, built in the 17th century by Madhukar Shah, the deeply religious predecessor of Bir Singh Ju Deo.
Ram Raja temple, palace-turned-temple with soaring spires & palatial architecture. Built by the King Madhukar Shah it is one of the most unusual temples in India & the only place where Lord Rama is worshipped as a King not as a deity.
Later transfer to Jhansi railway station to board the train to Agra. Upon arrival transfer to hotel.
Evening is FREE for independent activity.
Overnight Hotel – Agra (B)
Day 07: Agra
Early morning start your day with a guided visit “Symbol of eternal LOVE Taj Mahal” at dawn (Closed on Friday), which stands on the banks of River Yamuna. It was built by the 5th Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in the year 1631 in memory of his wife, MumtazMahal. It was completed in 22 years.
Post breakfast guide sightseeing of Agra visiting Agra Fort, taken over from the Lodhis by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. The Fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. It was built from red sandstone, often inlaid with white marble & intricate decorations.
Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex in Agra, North India. It lies north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort on the opposite side of the Yamuna River, in the flood plains
Itmad Ud Daulah;, one of the most beautiful of Mughal tombs, stands across the river Yamuna from the Taj Mahal, nearly one and a half kilometers up-stream. Belonging to the age of Jahangir, it contains cenotaphs of Mirza Ghiyas and Asmat Begum, parents of the powerful Mughal Empress Nurjahan queen of Jahangir, an exceptional beauty and an astute administrator.
Also visit the Sinakdra; The Mughal Emperor Akbar, known as Akbar the Great, ruled an empire that stretched across North India from 1556 to 1605. His reign is considered the pinnacle of Mughal rule in India.
Rest of the day leisure to explore local market and famous inlay marble art work of Agra.
Overnight Hotel – Agra (B)
Day 08: Agra - Ranthambhore via Fatehpur Sikri & Abhaneri ( 265 Kms / 5-6 Hrs Approx)
Post breakfast driven to Ranthambhore en-route visiting to FatehpurSikri (Ghost Capital), the political capital of India's Mughal Empire under Akbar's reign, from the year 1571 until 1585, when it was abandoned, ostensibly due to lack of water. Also visit Emperor Akbar's Residential complex, Mosque &Tomb of Salim Chisti.
Abhaneri; a great historical site of the 7th Century Step well or “Bawri”, which is a unique invention of the natives. It is one of India's largest step wells and is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple, an ancient 7th Century Sun Temple.
Enjoy a camel ride (ON YOUROWN) through Abhaneri Village, visit to the onsite farm & experience the traditional village life from close quarter, followed by a traditional lunch (ON YOUROWN).
Continue drive to Ranthambore National Park, bounded to the north by Banas River & to the Chambal River in the south. It is named after historic Ranthambore fortress, which lies within the park. The Park was established as Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in the year 1955 by the Indian Government & was declared as Project Tiger reserves in the year 1973. It became National Park in the year 1980 & later in the year 1991 the tiger reserve was enlarged to include Sawai Man Singh & Keladevi sanctuaries, total area 1334 km.
It is famous for its tiger population & is one of India's Project Tiger reserves. Other Major wild animals found in the national park include the tiger, leopard, nilgai, dhole, wild pig, sambar, chital & the gaur. It is also home to wide variety of trees, plants, birds & reptiles.
Rest of the time relax at wildlife resort.
Get QuotesOvernight at wildlife Resort (B, L, D)
Day 09: Ranthambhore
Morning & Afternoon sharing Jeep safari with an English naturalist in the Jungle to view the enchanting wildlife.
BLACK BUCK: Just an hour's drive away from Ranthambhore one can see herds of Black Buck, the most magnificent gazelle of the desert landscape so beautifully depicted in the miniature paintings of the region.
Overnight at wildlife Resort (B, L, D)
Day 10: Ranthambhore - Jaipur (165 Kms/ 3-4 Hrs Approx.)
Post breakfast drive to Jaipur: popularly known as Pink City, the flamboyant & colourful capital of Rajasthan. With its rich & colourful past, resplendent with tales of velour & bravery, it is now one of the most important heritage cities in India. The city was founded in the year 1728 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber. It remains the only city in the world symbolizing the nine divisions of the universe, through nine rectangular sectors.
Evening is FREE for relax
Overnight Hotel – Jaipur (B)
Day 11: Jaipur
Post breakfast private guided sightseeing of PINK City, Jaipur
Start your day with an exciting adventure overwhelming experience of elephant ride at Amber Fort, the palace complex which stands to this date was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh.
City Palace a perfect blend of Rajasthani & Mughal architecture. The centre of the palace is a seven-storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine views over the gardens & the city.
Jantar Mantar (Solar Observatory) an astronomical treasure house, with solar devices that give accurate predictions till date.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a five-storied structure of pink sandstone. It was built in the year 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down the busy street market unseen by the world through its 593 stoneJharokas (mini windows).
Post Lunch day at leisure to explore the local market of PINK City.
Optional: Followed by evening CHOKIDHANI ethnic village excursion and traditional Rajathani dinner.
Overnight Hotel – Jaipur (B)
Day 12: Jaipur – Delhi {265 Kms/ 5-6 Hrs}
Post breakfast transfer to Delhi, on arrival check in at Hotel.
Enjoy rest of the free time enjoy light sightseeing of Delhi & shopping at some High end Fashion stores of South Delhi – One of the most happening places of Delhi. Visit Craft Emporiums etc.
Overnight Hotel – Delhi (B)
Day 13: Delhi – Paro {KB 205 @ 1155/ 1550 Hrs}
Paro – Thimphu (58 Kms / 1.5 Hrs Approx.)
Post breakfast transfer to airport to board the flight to Delhi. On arrival by International flight and collection of baggage, you will be welcomed by our tour Exceptional Escapes representative who will be your tour guide during your entire trip in Bhutan.
Check into your hotel in Thimphu. Free until lunch time for some rest from early morning flight, refreshment and lunch. If time permit then guided visit of following places:-
TachogangLhakhang; TachogangLhakhang is located in Paro district, on the way to Thimphu. It was founded by ThankthongGyelpo after he experienced a vision of Guru Rimpochhe, Amitaba and Avalokiteshvara near site. The caretakers today are said to be descendants of ThangtongGyelpo. Inside the temple one can see the masters relics, including his walking stick.
TashichhoDzong; The TashichhoDzong is a Buddhist monastery cum fortress at the northern edge of Thimpu the capital city of Bhutan. The Dzong was built on the western bank of the river Wang Chu, and has historically served at the seat of the DrukDesi or the Dharma Raja of Bhutan’s government. After the kings assumed power in 1907 this post was combined with that of the king and Thimphu severed as the summer caital of the kingdom before becoming the full time capital of Bhutan.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Thimphu (L, D)
Day 14: Thimphu
Post breakfast proceed to visit guided sightseeing of Thimpu visiting:
Kuensel Phodrang; The KuenselPhodrang or the Buddha point isthe world’s largest sitting Buddha statue, the statue is 167 feet high. The statue is situated on top of a hill overlooking the city of Timphu, it can be accessed by road and is about 15 minutes away from the city’s center. The word Kuensel means everything is clear and from this place you will sure enjoy a great view of the Thimphu Valley on both sides. The statute will house a temple inside it, the statue and its adjoining car park and recreational center.
National Memorial Chorten; The National Memorial was built by Bhutan's third king, H.M. JigmeDorjiWangchuck who is also known as the "father of modern Bhutan." He wanted to erect a monument carrying the message of world peace and prosperity. However, he was unable to give shape to his idea in his lifetime due to pressures of state and other regal responsibilities.
Get QuotesMotithangTakinPreserve; The MotithangTakin Preserve also known as the Thimphu Zoo by many is a small natural preserve for the Takin Bhutan’s national animal. It was originally a mini zoo, but it was converted in a preserve later on as the Takin. The mini zoo contained a small number of Takin but the King of Bhutan later decreed that it was improper for a Buddhist nation to keep an animal in captivity.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Thimphu (B, L, D)
Day 15: Thimphu – Punakha (84 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Post breakfast, start your drive towards Punakha via Dochula Pass. We will stop over for tea at Dochula (3,100 m), where on a sunny day, you can get stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. The Dochu La Pass is probably the best known mountain pass in Bhutan. Located at an altitude of 3150 meter above sea level, the Dochu La Pass is about 30 kilometer away from the capital city Thimphu and the road to Punakha.On a clear day the pass offers visitors a spectacular view of the majestic eastern Himalayan Ranges.
PunakhaDzong; The PunakhaDzong or the PungtangDechenPhortangDzong is located at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and the Po Chhu River, combine to form the Puna Tsang Chu which in turn is a tributary of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The Dzhong was constructed by ZhabdrungNgawangNamgyalWangchuck in 1638.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Punakah (B, L, D)
Day 16: Punakha – Trongsa (138 Kms / 4-5 Hrs Approx.)
Post breakfast guided visit of Trongsa Dzong; The Trongsa Dzong or the Cheokhor Rabdentse is one of the largest and most impressive Dzong in Bhutan. The Dzong is located on a cliff overlooking the Mangde Chu river gorge. The Dzong was built at the site of a temple that was constructed in 1543, by a Drukpa Lama. This huge multi-level fortress comprises of a series of courtyards and passageways that are built along the topography of the ridge.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Trongsa (B, L, D)
Day 17: Trongsa – Bumthang (79 Kms / 2-3 Hrs)
Post breakfast, we will drive towards Bumthang and visit Jakar Dzong. The Jakar Dzong is situated above the Jakar village in the Chamkhar valley of Bumthang. The Dzhong was originally a site of a monastery that was being constructed at the time of Lama Ngagi Wanchuck’s visit to Bhutan. According to legend during the construction of the Dzong a white bird emerged from the structure and perched itself on the site. In Bhutanese culture a white bird is considered to be auspicious.
Jambay Lhakhang; Jambay Lhakhang was built by King Srongsen Gampo of Tibet in 659 AD. The temple was blessed by Guru Rimpoche during his visit to Bumthang. It is said that Guru Rimpoche was the one who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. It was renovated by Sindhu Raja after Guru Rimpoche restored his life with his magical powers. Many believe that there is a natural lake under the temple in which Guru Rimpoche took refuge on several occasions.
Chimi Lhakhang; The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humour, songs and outrageous behavior to dramatise his teachings and due to this also known as "Divine Madman". This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30 minute walk across field from the road to the temple. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning "field". It then follows a tiny stream downhill to Yoaka and across more fields before making a short climb to Chimi Lhakhang. After Lunch drive approx 3 hours to Gangtey.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Get QuotesOvernight Hotel – Bumthang (B, L, D)
Day 18: Bumthang – Gangtey (165 Kms / 5-6 Hrs)
Post breakfast drive to Gangtey and visit Gangtey Goemba. The Gangtey Monastery or the Gangtey Goempa is an important monastery / temple associate with the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. The Monastery is Located in the Wandue Phodrang Dzhongkhag in central Bhutan. The Gangtey Monastery is situate in the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, which is also renowned for being the winter home of the rare Tibetan Black Necked Cranes. The monastery was established in 1613 by Peling Gyalse Rinpoche, the grandson of Trenton Pema Lingpa the great treasurer discoverer.
Phobjikha valley; The Phobjikha is a wide glacial valley located in close to the Gangtey Monastery. The Phobjikha valley is the winter home of the rare Black Necked Cranes that migrate from Tibet from the arid plains of Tibet to roost in the more comfortable climate of the Phobjikha Valley. The valley is at an altitude of 2900 meters above sea level and experiences a much lighter winter as compared to the harsh extremes of Tibet.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Gangtey (B, L, D)
Day 19: Gangtay – Paro (125 Kms/ 3-4 Hrs Approx.)
Post breakfast drive to Paro en-route visiting Simtokha Dzong; The Simtokha Dzong is a small Dzong located approximately 5 kilometers south of Thimphu. The Dzong is officially called the Sangak Zabhon Phodrang which roughly translates to the Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras. The Simthoka Dzong is said to be the first fortress to have been built by the legendary Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in Bhutan. Later drive to Paro, on arrival transfer to hotel.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Get QuotesOvernight Hotel – Paro (B, L, D)
Day 20: Paro
Post breakfast, we will take you for a morning hike up to Taktsang Monastery, also known as ‘Tiger’s Nest’. Hanging precariously and magically from a rather steep cliff, the Taktshang monastery is a monument of genuine pride for the Bhutanese nation. It defies architectural principles to the core and amazes tourists from around the world. It is a sight to behold.
Kyichu Lhakhang; The Jowo Temple of Kyichu is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. The temple was built by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo in the 7th Century AD. The Kyichu Lhakhang was one of the 108 temples constructed by him to subdue a demon that was terrorizing the people of the Himalayas.
The Lhakahng underwent many extensions during the ages with the last one being carried out in 1965 by the Queen Mother Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck.
Rest of the time is FREE for relax.
Overnight Hotel – Paro (B, L, D)
Day 21: Paro
Post breakfast proceed for guided visit of Paro visiting the following places: Dumtse lhakang; The Dumtse lhakhang Temple is located just north of the city of Paro. The Dumtse Lhabhang temple is very unique in its design as it’s designed like a Chorten (Stupa), which is highly unlike any guide other Lhakhang / temple in Bhutan. The Temple was built in the 1443 AD by Thantong Gyalpo, known as the iron bridge builder in Bhutanese legend. The Dumatse Lhakhang is built over 3 levels that represent the 3 spiritual realms of earth i.e. Hell, Earth and Heaven. The walls of theDumtse Lhakhang are decorated in beautiful hand-painted murals that depict these 3 realms of earth.
To visit the Dumtse Lhakahng tourists require a special permit that has to be obtained in advance, we recommend that you ask your Bhutan Travel Agent to apply for the same if you wish to visit the temple before you depart from your home country. Another thing that BhutanTravelAgency.com recommends is that you must carry a flashlight with you while visiting the temple. The inner reaches of the temple are very dark and only illuminated by a few butter lamps and the odd small window.
Rimpung Dzhong; The Paro Dzhong is probably Bhutan's best known and most iconic Dzhong. This is probably the first building you will notice when you land at Paro International Airportand will probably be your first memory of Bhutan.
The imposing Dzhong is perhaps the finest example of Dzhong architecture existing the world today, the massive buttered walls of the fortress dominate over the valley. The Rinpung Dzhong's names translates to the “Fortress on a heap of Jewels ".
In evening we will visit local market of Paro and overnight in a hotel in Paro.
Overnight Hotel – Paro (B, L, D)
Day 22: Paro – Kathamndu {Flight}
Post breakfast transfer to airport to board your flight to Kathmnadu. On arrival by International flight, after traditional Indian style ‘Swagat’ (Welcome) by Exceptional Escapes representative, he would assist you at the airport & transfer to hotel for check in.
Overnight Hotel – Kathmandu
Day 23: Kathmandu – Pokhara (Approx. 06 Hrs Drive)
Post breakfast, drive to Pokhara which is the second largest and the most beautiful city in Nepal. Upon arrival check in to the hotel and proceed for boating in Fewa Lake. In the evening, you have free time to explore on your own.
Overnight Hotel – Pokhara (B)
Day 24: Pokhara
Wake up early morning to take a short 30 minutes’ drive to Sagrangkot which is located at a height of 1600m. Sarangkot is renowned for its beautiful sunrise view and panoramic mountain views. Guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery for a while and drive back to hotel and breakfast. Later a half day sightseeing tour of Pokhara is in store for you. We will be visiting World Peace Stupa, Davis Fall, the old town of Pokhara & Tibetean Refugee camp. There will be 1 hour boating in Lake Fewa to enjoy the lake view and the mountains. After the sightseeing, you can walk around lake side area which is filled with shops, cafes & restaurants.
Overnight Hotel – Pokhara (B)
Day 25: Pokhara - Chitwan (Approx. 4.5 Hrs Drive)
Post breakfast, drive to Chitwan. Chitwan offers one of the finest wildlife experiences in Asia. In the evening proceed for cultural show which is known as Tharu stick dance.
Overnight Hotel – Chitwan (B, L, D)
Day 26: Chitwan
Today guests will be escorted by expert naturalist on various exciting activities including elephant back safari, Canoe ride, Jungle walk, Bird watching, Slide show.
Overnight Hotel – Chitwan (B, L, D)
Day 27: Chitwan – Kathmandu – Nagarkot (Approx. 06 Hrs Drive)
Post breakfast drive to Kathmandu and continue to Nagarkot which is at a height of 2300m above the sea level. From this beautiful highland you can catch excellent views of sunset and sunrise and gorgeous mountain ranges including Mt. Everest on a clear day.
Overnight Hotel – Nagarkot (B)
Day 28: Nagarkot – Kathmandu (Approx. 1.5 Hrs Drive)
Wake up early morning and enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise and the beautiful Himalayan Panoramas just in front of you. Enjoy the fascination scenery and enjoy you breakfast.
Guest may wish to have some walk in the village side near your hotel. Then we will drive back to Kathmandu and continue the sightseeing Tour.
Drive back to Kathmandu and continue visit to Pashupatinath Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Pashupatinath is one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for all the Hindus of the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the trinity and the guardian (patron) deity of Nepal. This is one of the oldest temples, situated on the banks of the Holy Bagmati River. It is double – roofed golden temple with four triple silver doorways. Pashupatinath covers an area of 281 hectares, which is one of the biggest temple complexes in Nepal. Although Pashupatinath Temple was only built in the fifth century and later renovated by Malla kings, the holy site is said to have existed from the beginning of the millennium.
Proceed for sightseeing tour to Great Stupa of Boudhanath (UNESCO World heritage site). Boudhanath Stupa holds a great importance to the entire Buddhist around the world. The Stupa is a vast dome-shaped monument representing the Mind of the Buddha, is the primary pilgrimage destination for Tantric Buddhists of the Himalayas and a major draw for Tibetan Buddhists from all over the planet. The history of the Stupa from its origins in the fifth century to the present day is also presented here for the
first time.
Our next destination is Kathmandu durbar square, (UNESCO World heritage site). Kathmandu Durbar Square is the historic place that was also a politically important site until recently. The Kings of Nepal were crowned and their coronation ceremony was solemnized in this durbar square. The Durbar Square, with its old temples and palaces, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. The temples, monuments, and palaces are believed to have been built by the Malla kings of the Medieval Nepal.
Overnight Hotel – Kathmandu (B)
Day 29: Kathmandu Departure
Transfer to airport to board your international flight for onward journey taking back a wonderful holiday experience.
Tour Concludes: Exceptional Escapes Manager will assist you with your transfer to the airport for boarding onward flight.
The arrangement of our trip was so perfectly done, that i could not find even a single fault or drawback for which i could provide a suggestion. We are so much impressed and touched by the hospitality and services provided. To be frank, we have already started to plan for our next holiday, may be sometime in the end of the year. We will get back to you soon :-) Thanks again Exceptional Escapes.....you guys are truly EXCEPTIONAL!!!! - read more...
The trip in general has been exceptional
The driver was a sweetheart. Always bringing me something to eat or drink and also always carrying a beautiful smile - read more...
Airport Representative was very Good Tour & Guide Services was very Good Ground Services was excellent Hotel Services was excellent - read more...
Generally all are good except that in shimla. Silverine hotel is not a suitable hotel for elderly people as they need to walk up and downhill to the hotel….though the place is ideal for shoppers - read more...
Thank you so very much for going above and beyond to ensure that we had a wonderful trip. I have been telling everyone about your hospitality. I truly had a great time and I especially am thankful for all your organizing and to take time to show us your family and invite us to your home. You have a beautiful family and I think Choti (your little sister) is so adorable - read more...
Hi Gaurav, thanks for following up and for all your efforts in making all the necessary arrangements for my trip. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. A few suggestions on how you might improve your services for future bookings - read more...
Many thanks for putting together a wonderful and memorable vacation for us. We thoroughly enjoyed it. We did not find anything lacking from your side. It was our first visit to India and it seems like we are already planning to be back. The pace was hectic so we did not find much time to visit the local markets which we will have to make up next time - read more...
We reached home safely on Sunday morning (USA time) and slept most of the day. I cannot thank you enough for all your help and efforts in making our trip such a wonderful success. I will never forget the experiences we had and fun time we enjoyed all throughout the trip. I will send you pictures soon.....'not to worry!!!' - read more...
We waited almost two years to meet again and it was well worth it. Everybody had a fantastic time and loved every moment of it. Your friend speaks very good English now and we all wish her well in the future. It seems that shopping with your friend was the highlight of the trip, the ladies would not stop talking about it - read more...