ACROSS THE HIMALAYA
14 DAYS – NEPAL & BHUTAN HIMALAYAN ODYSSEY
OVERVIEW
Dive into Himalayan culture in comfort. Explore the best of Nepal & Bhutan as we peruse street markets, wander ancient alleys, hike to Buddhist monasteries, and soak up stunning Himalayan views. All the while we’ll be sampling delicious cuisine and staying in delightful accommodations boasting local flair.
And of course, we’ll make the hike up to Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery!
Busy days keep us active, but still allow time to wander on your own and engage in these delightful Himalayan cultures. A fun itinerary suitable for anyone who enjoys a bit of walking each day.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Exploring hidden alleys in Kathmandu
- Shopping at colorful street markets
- Temples and Palaces of ancient Himalayan city-kingdoms
- The iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff
- Himalayan views
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
DAY 1 Kathmandu | Historic Boutique Lodging in Heart of Ancient City
Arrive Kathmandu. Welcome dinner and orientation.
DAY 2 Kathmandu | Temples and Palaces of Ancient Kathmandu
Walking tour of hidden backstreets and iconic landmarks of Kathmandu. Explore the ancient city-kingdom of Patan and the iconic Swyambunath (Monkey Temple).
DAY 3 Pokhara | Fly to Pokhara — Boating on Lake — Shopping
We’ll take a mid-day flight to Nepal’s adventure capital, Pokhara. Situated on the beautiful Fewa Lake and tucked up to the base of the Himalaya, Pokhara offers stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Afternoon free to go boating on the lake, shopping or just exploring along the popular lakeside. Tranquil lodge in the countryside.
DAY 4 Pokhara | Mountain-Top Resort with Stunning Himalayan Panorama
Morning optional paragliding or have morning to yourself to wander our country surroundings. In the afternoon we’ll drive to a nearby mountain-top for stunning Himalayan views and tonight’s lodge.
DAY 5 Gorkha | Village Walk in the Lap of Mt. Manaslu
Start the day with breakfast on the terrace overlooking the Himalaya, followed by a small hike to the nearby local’s Shiva temple. This afternoon we’ll drive to Gorkha District where a quaint hill-top resort awaits us. Allow one of the locally-raised lodge staff to guide you on a stroll through their quiet village.
DAY 6 Kurintar | Riverside lodge — Manakamana Temple
After visiting the 18th century Gorkha Palace, we’ll have the option of taking a cable car up to the Manakamana Temple. Stop in a highway-side bazaar town to buy locally grown oranges or have tea. Finish the day with a 20 minute stroll through a secluded village to reach our walking-only lodge. Enjoy drinks beside the pool or on the terrace overlooking the river.
DAY 7 Nuwakot District | Historical Palace and Farmhouse Lodge
It’s a lovely drive along the scenic Trishuli River today. We’ll stop in a bustling market town to experience everyday life in a small community. Next you’ll have the option to take an afternoon hike up the mountain to our lodge, or ride in the van. Finish the day with a sunset stroll to the Nuwakot Palace (circa 18th century). Delightful heritage farmhouse lodge serves up fresh, locally grown produce.
DAY 8 Kathmandu | Largest Stupa in Nepal
Morning drive to Kathmandu. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure and explore the area around Nepal’s largest stupa. You will find pilgrims from all over the world circumambulating the iconic Bouddhanath Stupa. Hyatt or similar lodging.
DAY 9 Thimphu | Fly to Bhutan
Today we fly to Bhutan and will be transported directly to our lodging in the capital, Thimphu. We’ll have time to visit the Thimphu Dzong (palace) and do some shopping.
DAY 10 Thimphu | Drive to Dochula Pass
Sightseeing – giant Buddha statue, memorial stupa, Dochula Pass.
DAY 11 Haa | Remote Mountain Valley.
Scenic drive to remote Haa village. Village walk.
DAY 12 Paro | Highest Motor-able Road in Bhutan.
After crossing the highest motor-able road in Bhutan with amazing mountain views, you’ll have the option to take an afternoon hike to a cliff-side monastery. This evening we’ll end up in the green Paro Valley with great accommodation.
DAY 13 Paro | Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Probably the highlight of our time in Bhutan, today we’ll trek to the stunning Tiger’s Nest Monastery for incredible photo opportunities. Return to Paro for a delicious traditional Bhutanese dinner.
DAY 14 Depart | Final day in Bhutan
Last minute shopping in Paro town. Departure. Options to return to Kathmandu, or fly on to Bangkok, Thailand.
PRICING
FROM
2-3 people $7,295 per person
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4-5 people $6,695 per person
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6+ people $6,395 per person
WHAT’S INCLUDED
INCLUDED
- Airport transfers
- All in-country transportation
- 13 nights delightful lodging
- All breakfasts
- 9 lunches
- 11 dinners
- International flights: Kathmandu – Paro, Bhutan; Paro – Kathmandu or Paro – Bangkok.
- Domestic flight: Pokhara – Kathmandu
- Entrance fees for all listed sights
- Bhutan Visa
- Government certified guide and driver for Bhutan segment.
- Eli as personal Trip Leader and Cultural Liaison
NOT INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
- International airfare to / from Nepal
- Nepal visa fee
- Any drinks other than complimentary drinks
- Snacks
- Personal equipment
- Trip insurance
- Emergency evacuation if required
- Other personal expenses
- Tips for guides, staff, drivers, etc…
DATES
DEPARTURE DATES 2018
Feb 23-Mar 06 | Mar 09-20 | Mar 23-Apr 03 | Nov 23-Dec 04
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FLEXIBLE DEPARTURE DATES
Don’t see dates that work for you? Contact me to plan dates that fit your schedule.
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RECOMMENDED SEASON
October – December, February – May
EXTENTIONS & ADD-ONS
EXTENTIONS & ADD-ONS
Stop off in Thailand for a couple days of sun and beach before returning home. Ask me about the options.
ACROSS THE HIMALAYA
14 DAYS – from $6,395 per person
DELIGHTFUL ACCOMMODATION
Stay at these or similarly beautiful properties on this trip.
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