Tibet, Nepal & Bhutan

Welcome to Tibet, a land of breathtaking landscapes and deep spiritual heritage. Upon arrival at Lhasa's airport or train station, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to rest and acclimate to Lhasa's high altitude, 11,995 feet above sea level. The city sits along the banks of the Kyichu River, surrounded by majestic mountains.

Lhasa, meaning "holy land" in Tibetan, is home to many sacred sites and a rich cultural legacy. In the evening, immerse yourself in local traditions with a welcome dinner at the hotel, where exquisite Tibetan and Chinese architecture sets the stage. The hotel showcases history and artistry, featuring nearly 100 pieces of ancient Tibetan and Chinese textile art, creating a mesmerizing ambiance. Explore the hotel's ornate Tibetan and Chinese textile boutique art garden, a hidden gem within its tranquil surroundings. 

Meals: Dinner 

Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Begin your day with a journey to one of Tibet's most awe-inspiring landmarks—the Potala Palace, the world's highest palace. Perched at an astonishing 12,139 feet above sea level, this former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas is now a UNESCO-listed museum, preserving centuries of Tibetan history, art, and culture. As you ascend its grand stairways, take in panoramic views of Lhasa's cityscape framed by rugged mountain peaks. After lunch at a local restaurant, immerse yourself in the intricate art of thangka painting, a traditional Tibetan practice depicting Buddhist deities and mandalas on silk. Witness skilled artisans at work and gain deeper insight into the spiritual significance of this sacred craft. Next, continue to Norbulingka, the former summer retreat of the Dalai Lamas. This serene oasis is home to Tibet's most extensive artificial garden, a masterpiece of Tibetan landscaping adorned with tranquil ponds, pavilions, and vibrant flora. Conclude the day with an authentic Tibetan-style dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the profound beauty and spirituality encountered throughout your exploration.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Today, immerse yourself in the profound spiritual heritage of Tibet as you visit some of its most revered monasteries and pilgrimage sites. After breakfast, begin your journey at the Jokhang Monastery, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Dating back to the 7th century, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site blends Han, Tibetan, Indian, and Nepalese architectural influences, making it a remarkable testament to Tibet's rich cultural legacy. Pilgrims from across the region prostrate themselves before its sacred halls, adding to the monastery's deeply spiritual atmosphere. Next, visit the vibrant Barkhor Street in Lhasa's Old Town, often called the "heart of Lhasa." After lunch, visit Ramoche Monastery, the sister temple to Jokhang. This revered site houses a small bronze statue of Buddha as a child, one of Tibet's most treasured relics. After dinner, return to your hotel for a free evening..

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Delve deeper into Tibet's spiritual and historical heritage with a visit to the Zhayeba Monastery, an awe-inspiring sacred site perched dramatically on a cliffside. After breakfast, embark on a journey to Tibet's second-highest monastery, a revered pilgrimage destination from the 7th century. Built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, this monastery is one of Tibet's four most sacred sites, featuring ancient cave chapels intricately carved into the mountainside. As you explore the network of temples, take in the breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and reflect on the monastery's deep spiritual significance. Following lunch, enjoy the afternoon at leisure, relax, or explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Today, journey through Tibet's breathtaking landscapes and sacred spiritual sites as you explore two of its most revered monasteries alongside local pilgrims. After breakfast, embark on a 31-mile scenic drive to Gandan Monastery, perched high above a lush valley. As the largest monastery of the Gelugpa sect, Gandan holds deep religious significance. Join Tibetan pilgrims in the traditional kora, a meditative ritual of circling the monastery while taking in sweeping views of the Lhasa River below. Enjoy a packed lunch in this serene setting before continuing to Sera Monastery, one of the 'great three' Gelug University monasteries. Here, witness the spirited monk debates, a fascinating practice where monks engage in lively philosophical discussions, a cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhist education. Today's driving distance is 80 miles.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Today, experience the breathtaking beauty of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's most sacred and picturesque landscapes. After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to Yamdrok Lake, a stunning freshwater expanse at 14,570 feet and spanning over 44 miles. People revere this sacred lake for its brilliant turquoise waters, mirroring the surrounding snow-capped peaks and rolling hills. According to Tibetan belief, Yamdrok is watched over by the goddess Dorje Gegkyi, and pilgrims undertake a seven-day kora (circumambulation) around its shores to purify their sins. Enjoy a picnic lunch against the panoramic backdrop of the lake before making the return journey to Lhasa. Spend the afternoon leisurely, allowing time to refresh before gathering for dinner at the hotel. Driving Distance: 143 miles 

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: St. Regis Lhasa Resort (Deluxe room)

Today, we bid farewell to Tibet and fly to Kathmandu in Nepal. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, meet your driver at the airport for a scenic drive (21 miles / approx. 1.5-hour drive) to Dhulikhel, a serene hillside town known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, from Cho Oyu in the east to Himalchuli in the west. Upon arrival in Dhulikhel, check into your hotel.

 Meals: Breakfast

 Accommodation: The Dwarika's Resort, Dhulikhel (Non-attached Jr Suite)

After an early breakfast, take a 2.5-mile walk to Kavre Village, an easy hike leading to the Kali Temple, known for its panoramic Himalayan views. Reached by a 1,000-step climb or a scenic forest trail, the temple's esplanade offers breathtaking vistas of the Dhulikhel mountains. Return to the hotel for a brief rest before checking out and begin the drive (21 miles, around 1.5 hours drive) to Kathmandu with a stop in Bhaktapur—an ancient city shaped like a conch shell and situated at 4,600 feet above sea level. Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its medieval art, architecture, and traditional craftsmanship. Highlights include Bhaktapur Durbar Square, built by King Bhupatindra Malla, the iconic 55-Window Palace, and Nyatapola Temple—Nepal's tallest pagoda with five terraces guarded by symbolic stone figures. You will also visit Pottery Square and try traditional pottery making. Continue to Kathmandu, the capital city in a valley surrounded by four hills and home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. 

 Meals: Breakfast

 Accommodation: The Dwarika's Hotel (Deluxe Heritage room)

Today's exploration of Kathmandu begins with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, once the royal palace complex of the Malla kings and now home to an array of temples, monuments, and courtyards reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the sacred Kumari Bahal, the residence of the Living Goddess who symbolizes divine consciousness, and the striking idol of Kal Bhairav—an awe-inspiring representation of Lord Shiva's fierce form carved from a single stone. Continue to the towering Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world and a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Built on an octagonal base and adorned with prayer wheels, monasteries and homes of Lamas surround it. The day concludes with a visit to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, an ancient Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop offering sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley. With its iconic all-seeing eyes of the Buddha gazing out from all four sides, Swayambhunath is a spiritual landmark and a serene spot to reflect. 

 Meals: Breakfast

 Accommodation: The Dwarika's Hotel (Deluxe Heritage room)

After an early morning transfer to the airport, board a scenic flight to Paro, Bhutan, where, upon arrival, you will be greeted and driven to Thimphu (34 miles, approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes drive), the charming capital city nestled in a Himalayan valley. Unlike typical capitals, Thimphu offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, where ancient monasteries sit beside contemporary structures, and crimson-robed monks walk alongside office-goers. In the afternoon, visit the majestic Buddha Dordenma, a towering 170-foot bronze statue gilded in gold that overlooks the city from Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. Believed to fulfill an ancient prophecy, the statue houses 125,000 smaller Buddha figures and radiates a peaceful aura across the Thimphu Valley. Continue to the vibrant Centenary Farmers Market, the largest in Bhutan, where locals gather to sell fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handicrafts in a lively and colorful atmosphere (please note the market is closed on Tuesdays).

 Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 Accommodation: Pemako Thimphu (Deluxe room)

Begin the day with an early morning transfer to the 12th-century Changangkha Lhakhang Monastery to participate in a serene Tshewang ceremony, a sacred prayer ritual led by monks for peace, prosperity, and good health, followed by a symbolic butter lamp offering. Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, visit a traditional art and craft school to learn about the ancient technique of Thangkha painting, where natural pigments depict auspicious symbols and deities. Continue to the National Memorial Chorten, a Tibetan-style stupa dedicated to the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and an essential place of worship for the Bhutanese. Creating personalized postage stamps at the Thimphu Post Office offers a fun opportunity to make an unforgettable, officially usable souvenir. For lunch, enjoy an authentic Bhutanese meal at the 150-year-old Babesa Heritage Home, lovingly restored to reflect the charm of traditional Bhutanese living. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Drubthob Goema (Zilukha Nunnery), offering panoramic views of the Trashichhoedzong and a chance to interact with nuns who have dedicated their lives to spiritual practice. The day concludes with a traditional dress-wearing session, where guests can don Bhutan's elegant national attire, gho for men and kira for women, celebrating the country's rich textile heritage and cultural pride.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: Pemako Thimphu (Deluxe room)

After breakfast, journey to Punakha on a scenic drive of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. En route, stop at the stunning Dochula Pass (10,006 feet), where 108 chortens grace the hilltop and offer sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks on clear days. Continue with a short countryside hike through lush rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, the famed fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, affectionately known as Bhutan's "Divine Madman." Revered for his unorthodox teachings delivered through humor, poetry, and song, he remains a beloved figure. Couples from around the world visit this sacred site hoping to receive a blessing for their children. Upon arrival in Punakha, discover the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, where the temperate climate supports a thriving agricultural region. Visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Nicknamed the "Palace of Great Bliss," the dzong served as the former seat of government and remains a vital spiritual and administrative center. Despite enduring fires and an earthquake, its grandeur and intricate architecture have been beautifully preserved. After the visit, check into your hotel and enjoy some time unwinding.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: Como Uma, Punakha (Valley room)

After breakfast, drive back to Paro (77 miles, approximately 4 hours drive), crossing the Dochu La Pass, and arrive in Paro's picturesque valley, 7,217 feet above sea level. This valley boasts stunning landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and ancient temples and monasteries. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and begin your afternoon exploration of Paro. Visit Ta Dzong, a former watchtower built in the 17th century to defend the Rinpung Dzong, now serving as Bhutan's National Museum since 1968, showcasing a remarkable collection of art, religious artifacts, and Bhutanese postage stamps. Then, take a short walk downhill to Rinpung Dzong, built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which houses both the district's monastic body and government offices. The dzong is renowned for its traditional covered bridge, Nemi Zam, and offers breathtaking views of the valley and its surroundings. It is also the site of the Paro Tshechu, an annual religious dance festival.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: Como Uma, Paro (Valley room)

After breakfast, embark on the iconic Taktshang Lhakhang hike, also known as the Tiger's Nest, one of Bhutan's most famous monasteries perched 900 meters above the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived on the back of a tigress to meditate, which is how the monastery earned its name. Revered as one of the holiest sites in Bhutan, it was visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and remains a pilgrimage destination for Bhutanese people. Though a fire severely damaged the monastery in 1998, it was restored to its original grandeur. The hike is a 6-hour round trip, offering stunning views and a spiritual experience. In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples, dating back to the 7th century. The Lhakhang complex consists of two temples: one built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and another built in 1968 by H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan.

 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 Accommodation: Como Uma, Paro (Valley room)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight home.

 Meals: Breakfast