Nepal & The Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan 2012

This introductory tour combines enigmatic Bhutan with the spiritual nation of Nepal. Known as the 'last Shangri-La', the remote Kingdom of Bhutan was off limits to tourists until 1974 and even today, the country continues to preserve its cultural identity and integrity with visitors basking in the nation’s beautiful mountain scenery and exploring its forts, monasteries and markets. Acclimatise at the start of the tour with a stay in the Nepaline capital Kathmandu, returning to Nepal at the end for an enchanting stay in the beautiful Gokarna Forest.

OVERVIEW OF TOUR
•   Guided tour to Pashupatinath & Boudhnath
•   City tour of ancient Kathmandu
•   Flight to Paro, Bhutan
•   Paro sightseeing tour including the iconic Taksang Monastery
•   Tour of Thimpu
•   School, library, Royal Golsmith and handicraft visits
•   Visit the Simtokha Dzong
•   Days at leisure in Kathmandu

Guide

An English speaking local guide is included in Nepal and Bhutan.

MEAL PLAN → Breakfast in Kathmandu; breakfast, lunch and dinner in Paro and Thimpu.

ACCOMMODATION → Four star hotels in Kathmandu, three star in Bhutan.

GROUP SIZE → Maximum 14 passengers.

MINIMUM NUMBERS → This tour is subject to a minimum number of passengers (please call for details).

GRATUITIES → We recommend tipping your driver and guide at the end of your tour.

TRAVEL TIPS → Due to the remote mountain terrain travelling in Bhutan can be slow but hugely rewarding.

NB → This tour includes some walking. Due to the altitude we would not recommend this tour for those with walking, blood pressure or breathing difficulties. → The flights into Paro in Bhutan are operated by Druk Air and are subject to schedule changes, these flights are also in high demand so we recommend that you book early. → Due to local conditions changes may be made to the timings of the tour itineraries. → Driving times are approximate.

DAY 1 LONDON TO KATHMANDU
Depart from Heathrow on Jet Airways overnight, via Delhi, to Kathmandu.

DAY 2 KATHMANDU
Arrive in Kathmandu and spend two nights at the Shangri-La. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

DAY 3 KATHMANDU
This morning, visit the beautiful golden roofed Pashupatinath Hindu temple, and also the impressive Boudhnath Stupa. This afternoon embark on a fascinating half day tour of this magical city including visits to the Temple of the Living Goddess and Durbar Square with its array of temples overlooked by the spectacular Hanuman Dhoka, the ancient royal residential quarter.

DAY 4 KATHMANDU TO PARO, BHUTAN
Morning flight with Druk Air from Kathmandu to Paro providing breathtaking views of the Himalayas including Everest. Transfer to the Kichu Resort for a two night stay, this evening enjoy a stroll around the market.

DAY 5 PARO
Visit the ruined fortress of Drugyel Dzong before hiking 2-3 hours uphill through villages and forests to the spectacular Taksang monastery, perched on a granite ledge over a sheer drop of over 2,600 feet. This afternoon, continue through the beautiful Paro Valley to visit the National Museum housed in the watch tower known as Ta-Dzong. Continue down the hill, visiting the Rinpung Dzong administrative centre and school for monks before crossing the traditional bridge into Paro town for a final stroll around the market.

DAY 6 PARO TO THIMBU
Depart Paro for the scenic drive to the Bhutanese capital Thimpu and check into the Namgay Heritage Hotel for a two night stay (approx. 2 hours). This afternoon explore the Memorial Chorten (stupa) built in the memory of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, followed by visits to the 15th Century Changangkha monastery and Motithang Zoo to see the extremely rare Takin. The journey onwards is a spectacular one with fine views of the Thimpu Valley, finishing at the new Drupthob nunnery temple.

DAY 7 THIMBU
Enjoy a morning visit to the painting school, National Library, Royal Goldsmith workshop and handicraft centres, with the afternoon at leisure.

DAY 8 THIMBU TO PARO
Drive back to Paro, en route visiting Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan's oldest building and home to the Buddhist University. Check back into the Kichu Resort for an overnight stay (approx. 2 hours excluding sightseeing).

DAY 9 PARO TO KATHMANDU
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival transfer to the Gokarna Forest Resort & Spa for three nights. Set amidst majestic forests with a stunning Himalayan backdrop, the hotel is a striking complement to its magnificent surrounds. Traditionally the private Royal hunting grounds of the Kings of Nepal, the temperate forests have been preserved for over 500 years. You are at leisure to explore the local holy places, perhaps enjoy a secluded picnic, forest walks, or a bird watching excursion.

DAY 12 KATHMANDU TO LONDON
Transfer back to the airport for your flight from Kathmandu via Delhi to Heathrow with Jet Airways, arriving later the same day.