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It is with a great pleasure that we invite you to join me personally on this once in a lifetime experience. I’m honoured to be hosting this tour with you. My goal in personally hosting this beautiful adventure is to create the most wonderful experiences for you to have in these ancient lands of Nepal & Bhutan. This personalized itinerary complete with exclusive gatherings, exquisite events, and magical experiences are designed to impress, intrigue, and capture the essence of wonder and awe that only Explore India can deliver. The seamless unfolding of rich experiences and events each day of this tour has been carefully designed to offer the ultimate in enjoyment and comfort and I’m so pleased to be able to host this journey for you.
Nazir Karnai, President
Explore India Journeys Inc.
The Ultimate 14 day Journey to the exotic Himalayan nations of Bhutan and Nepal. As you approach you will be reminded of the tranquil remoteness of these countries as you land in what appears to be the most glorious mountain range on earth. The landlocked country of Bhutan is amazingly serene and as you visit the Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples and the medieval townships as the majesty of this serenity is unveiled for you. You will also have the opportunity to revel in the time-honoured traditions of the people of Bhutan as you visit their homes with their elaborately carved windows and doors as well as the embroidered works, they are famous for. Similarly, in Nepal you will experience the best of the people and cities where the foreign visitor is always welcomed with pride. You will experience the traditional art and customs that have been followed by the families for several generations. In addition to exploring the cultural and architectural wonders of these two small nations, we will also offer you the exciting opportunity to cover part of the journey in adventurous ways like white water rafting, a jungle walk to explore the wildlife, and even parts of the journey by canoe. The experience has been packaged with unparalleled services of our knowledgeable and friendly guides who enjoy showcasing these lands to you in their impeccable English. After all the exciting sightseeing, excursions and experiences, you will return to the amazing and carefully selected hotels and lodges where you will experience the absolute best in legendary mountain hospitality where ‘service with smile’ is not just a slogan but a way of life.
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Tour Highlights
- Experience the serene remoteness of these landlocked countries
- Feel the tranquil essence of peace as you enter ancient Buddhist monasteries
- Learn about traditional arts and customs including the healing art of bowl therapy
- Fly over Mount Everest and film the dramatic majesty of this mountain range
- Savour in the spectacular cuisine of both Nepal and Bhutan
- Shop for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that will remind you of this spectacular journey
- See the impressive Tiger’s Nest Monastery, set into a cliff 3,000 feet above Paro
- Wonder at the dzongs (great citadels) of Bhutan with their striking architecture
- See an archery demonstration, Bhutanese dance and enjoy a farewell dinner in Paro
- Wander the unique streets of Thamel enjoying the sights and sounds of this bustling area
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrival in India
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling Havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
You will be greeted by an Explore India representative at the airport and then taken to the hotel close to the airport.
Accommodation: Pullman New Delhi AerocityPullman New Delhi Aerocity
Asset No 02, Gmr Hospitality District, IGI Rd, Aerocity, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttps://all.accor.com/hotel/7559/index.en.shtml+91 11 4608 0808Combining lifestyle and design, for business and leisure . Whether traveling for business or just wishing to visit New Delhi and go around for shopping, Pullman New Delhi Aerocity is the perfect place to start your journey as your day begins from the luxurious comfort of our contemporary large rooms.
Suitably adjacent to international & domestic airport terminals, this 5-star hotel is well connected through the Airport Express Line, 5 minutes away. It is near the Cyber City and Delhi’s famous shopping malls like DLF Promenade, Emporio and Worldmark. The hotel is well positioned to attain a large segment of important Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) market as it is home to Delhi NCR’s largest convention space spread over a vast expanse of more than 40,000 sq.ft.
The hotel offers 670 spacious & luxurious rooms(including Novotel New Delhi) with 5-star amenities, Wi-Fi & 6 dining destinations for optimum comfort, convenience and connectivity. Visit the Pullman Wellness Spa & Salon, Fitness Center & the outdoor pool.
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Day 2:
Kathmandu
Breakfast at the hotel, then drive to the airport for the flight to Kathmandu, upon arrival you will be received by Explore India representative and transferred to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy your lunch after your arrival at the hotel.
In the afternoon, start your exploration of Kathmandu Valley from AsonTole Vegetable & Spice Market which offers vivid local life of Nepali people. Discover Kathmandu’s rich culture among the bustling narrow streets and many courtyards which form the base of living in Kathmandu. Continue your visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square where you will see Kumari Temple which houses the living Goddess and have an external view of Taleju Temple and Kala Bhairav.
Later, proceed to Thamel on the rickshaw via street Market, the best ways to explore Kathmandu and its little alleys with local residential areas and local markets. On arrival in Thamel, stroll through nearby markets, where you can admire the work of local Thangka paintings. Thamel also acts as the pre-base camp for mountaineers. It boasts a wide range of mountaineering gear shops, foreign money exchange booths, mobile phone shops, pubs, clubs, and nightlife, along with numerous travel agents and guest houses.
This evening enjoy a dining experience set within the 1905 Suites and restaurant
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hyatt Regency KathmanduHyatt Regency Kathmandu
Taragaon, Kathmandu 44601, Nepalhttps://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/nepal/hyatt-regency-kathmandu/kathm+977 1-5171234Set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a luxury five-star hotel designed in traditional Newari-style architecture, ideally located only 4 km away from the international airport. Situated in a city with a plethora of ancient sites and fascinating architecture, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a gateway to the city’s top attractions like Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Basantapur, Thamel, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and much more. You not only get the luxurious hospitality packages, but also get a cultural fest while you are at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu.
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Day 3:
Kathmandu
Early this morning you will be transferred to Kathmandu airport for once in a lifetime experience.
Your private aircraft will take you for a mountain flight overlooking some of the highest peaks including Mount Everest. (weather Permitting)
Return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast,
Later in the day we will explore the Boudhanath Stupa and visit Pashupatinath Temple.Boudhanath Stupa is one of the oldest and the biggest Buddhist monuments ever built in Nepal, and also one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Kathmandu. Boudhanath is an imposing structure standing some 36 meters. The Stupa stands on the massive three-level mandala-style platforms surrounded by colorful private family houses. Very much like Mecca for the Buddhists, every year tens of thousands of pilgrims from all over the Himalayan region visit the Boudhanath Stupa.
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Shiva in the world and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in the eastern part of Kathmandu. The temple is one of the holiest sites for Hindus and does not allow entry to non-Hindus. They are so rigid about this rule that the most famous of India’s Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi was barred from entering the place because by marrying a Parsi she had automatically denounced her Hindu religion. This happened when (unlike today) Nepal was almost totally dependent on India for all their need for petroleum, industrial products, telecommunication, electricity production, and defense.Nevertheless, the highlight is actually located outside the temple on the bank of river Bagmati – The burning pyres as well as the evening Aarti –Evening Musical Prayers with hundreds of flaming lamps.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Hyatt Regency KathmanduHyatt Regency Kathmandu
Taragaon, Kathmandu 44601, Nepalhttps://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/nepal/hyatt-regency-kathmandu/kathm+977 1-5171234Set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a luxury five-star hotel designed in traditional Newari-style architecture, ideally located only 4 km away from the international airport. Situated in a city with a plethora of ancient sites and fascinating architecture, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a gateway to the city’s top attractions like Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Basantapur, Thamel, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and much more. You not only get the luxurious hospitality packages, but also get a cultural fest while you are at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu.
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Day 4:
Sarangkot
After breakfast, we fly to the Pokhara. Upon arrival, we will see the Tibetan Refugee Camp, Devi’s fall, and the Cave of Shiva (Ghupteshwor Mahadev).
Later enjoy lunch at Fishtail Lodge. Later on, drive to Sarangkot. Check-in at Sarangkot Mountain Resort.
Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty situated at an altitude of 827m from sea level and 200km west of Kathmandu valley, the city is known as a center of adventure. It is one of the most popular destinations in Nepal, noted for its tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding countryside. It is also a base for trekkers undertaking the Annapurna Circuit. The enchanting city has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The serene lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambiance of peace and magic. In the evening, you will enjoy a free lakeside walk.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Sarangkot Mountain LodgeSarangkot Mountain Lodge
साराङकोट रोड, Pokhara 33700, Nepalhttps://barahi.com/properties/sarangkot-mountain-lodge/+977 985-6067928With an elevation of 1600m (5250 ft), at Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, every luxurious room offers stunning views of the glorious Annapurna mountain range. Enjoy the clean crisp mountain air at sunrise from your private balcony while you sit in peace and soak up the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.
Welcome to Sarangkot Mountain Lodge. Enjoy the nature of the surrounding jungle and the breathtaking views of sunrise over the mountains.
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Day 5:
Sarangkot
Morning at your leisure.
Afternoon we will experience the village activities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Sarangkot Mountain LodgeSarangkot Mountain Lodge
साराङकोट रोड, Pokhara 33700, Nepalhttps://barahi.com/properties/sarangkot-mountain-lodge/+977 985-6067928With an elevation of 1600m (5250 ft), at Sarangkot Mountain Lodge, every luxurious room offers stunning views of the glorious Annapurna mountain range. Enjoy the clean crisp mountain air at sunrise from your private balcony while you sit in peace and soak up the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.
Welcome to Sarangkot Mountain Lodge. Enjoy the nature of the surrounding jungle and the breathtaking views of sunrise over the mountains.
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Day 6:
Chitwan National Park
Early morning enjoys the beautiful sunrise over the Himalayas from the hotel. After breakfast fly to Chitwan National park.
The Royal Chitwan National Park is 158.6 km South West of Kathmandu and houses the first National Park of the Kingdom. It is famous for its variety of wildlife especially the Great Indian horned Rhinoceros and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.
Upon arrival at the park, you will have a meeting with the biologists involved in studying the nature park. Chitvansky National Park covers a vast territory of 400 square kilometers in the low wooded hills. Known for the beauty of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the country boasts one of the best national parks in Asia. This is one of the few places in the world where you can still see the Bengal Tiger and the Indian Rhino in the wild. Chitwan is home to a wide variety of animals such as leopards, bears, monkeys, various species of deer, wild boar, and about 400 species of birds. Also at the park are approximately 60 Bengal Tigers. Chitwan National Park is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites because of the importance of its biodiversity.Your guide will give you a brief introduction to your Chitwan program and after lunch, your Chitwan jungle activities will begin according to the schedule the guide has set out for you.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Barahi Jungle LodgeBarahi Jungle Lodge
West, Narayani 97761, Nepalhttps://www.barahijunglelodge.com/+977 56-695447Barahi Jungle Lodge situated in the pacific Chitwan, reflects the serenity of the National Park. Chitwan’s tranquility and the lodge’s peace very well complement one another. Experiencing refined luxury in the panoramic jungles adorned with the Rapti River when viewed from Barahi’s vantage point is a parallel universe retreat. We take immense pride in strengthening the bond of nature and mankind through our experiences.
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Day 7:
Chitwan National Park
Full-day jungle activities. Overnight stay at the resort.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Barahi Jungle LodgeBarahi Jungle Lodge
West, Narayani 97761, Nepalhttps://www.barahijunglelodge.com/+977 56-695447Barahi Jungle Lodge situated in the pacific Chitwan, reflects the serenity of the National Park. Chitwan’s tranquility and the lodge’s peace very well complement one another. Experiencing refined luxury in the panoramic jungles adorned with the Rapti River when viewed from Barahi’s vantage point is a parallel universe retreat. We take immense pride in strengthening the bond of nature and mankind through our experiences.
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Day 8:
Kathmandu
After breakfast, fly to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
Enjoy lunch at Babar Mahal Revisited called Mulchock restaurant.
In the afternoon enjoy a sightseeing tour of Patan
Patan is the oldest of all the three cities of Kathmandu valley. It is best known for its artistic heritage.It is probably one of the oldest Buddhist cities in the world. The city is situated on a plateau across the Bagmati River. Another name of Patan, is Lalitpur. The city is surrounded by 4Stupas as 4 corners of Patan, one at each corner of its cardinal points. These stupas are said to have been built by the famous Emperor Asoka. This is one of the most elegant architectural treasures of which Patan is very proud. About the beauty of Patan, a western lady writer has to say this – “Patan means eternity itself and Patan Durbar Square is the spectacular sight of Asia indeed”. The place is full of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments with bronze gateways, guardian deities, and wonderful carvings and many visitors come here to see these monuments. Patan Durbar square is a famous visiting place. The square is full of ancient places, temples, and shrines noted for their exquisite carvings. The major attractions here are Krishna Temple, Golden Window, Patan Museum, Mahabouddha Temple, etc.
In the evening we take you for another not to be missed experience – a typical Nepalese 6-course dinner at the most exquisite restaurant in entire Nepal
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Hyatt Regency KathmanduHyatt Regency Kathmandu
Taragaon, Kathmandu 44601, Nepalhttps://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/nepal/hyatt-regency-kathmandu/kathm+977 1-5171234Set on 37 acres of landscaped grounds, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a luxury five-star hotel designed in traditional Newari-style architecture, ideally located only 4 km away from the international airport. Situated in a city with a plethora of ancient sites and fascinating architecture, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu is a gateway to the city’s top attractions like Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Basantapur, Thamel, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and much more. You not only get the luxurious hospitality packages, but also get a cultural fest while you are at Hyatt Regency Kathmandu.
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Day 9:
Thimphu
Your journey begins with the most spectacular mountain flight with views of major Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Makalu, and on the final approach Bhutan’s own snowy peaks, the sacred Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tserimgang. You fly over the southern hills, known as ‘dwarfs’, or gateways into the Himalayas as they rise from the plains until they meet the great snow-capped peaks that rise up to the sky.
On arrival at Paro airport and after completion of airport formalities, you will be met by your representative (guide). Drive from Paro to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan, and an exciting blend of tradition and modernity.
Rest of the day at leisure or you may want to take a stroll through this lively town.In the evening, visit the impressive Trashicho Dzong/fortress which houses the throne room of the King and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of Chief Abbot and the central monk body. If your visit falls on a working weekday, arrive in time to watch the hoisting of the National Flag and the March of the Guards.
Also visit the Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (51.5mt bronze), sitting on top of Kuensel Phodrang hill. This site offers unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley End the day by visiting the local Art gallery called VAST Studio. Following that, stroll around Thimphu town. The Craft Bazaar or Vegetable markets are open, and definitely worth a visit!Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: dusitD2 Yarkay ThimphudusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu
Chorten Lam Thimphu , Kingdom of Bhutan, 11001, Bhutanhttps://www.dusit.com/dusitd2-yarkay-thimphu/+975 2 339 988Designed to reflect the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan’s captivating capital, dusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu welcomes guests with smart style and local charm.
Set on Chorten Lam near the main Thimphu Traffic Circle, the hotel enjoys an inner-city location within easy reach of Thimphu’s main attractions.
The lobby is adorned with local artworks, design features reference a beloved national folktale and facilities include a spa, a fully equipped gym and international restaurant.
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Day 10:
Thimphu
Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.
Today’s visit will include:
Memorial Chorten, the building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”) and a monument dedicated to peace. During the mornings and evenings, it is a bustling place where people of all ages circumambulate the chorten/stupa, prays and prostrate at the shrine, turns the big prayer wheels, offers butter lamps, and bask in the sun as they socialize and mingle.
Zorig Chosum, (also known as the painting school) offers a six-year course in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. The students follow a comprehensive course that starts with drawing and progresses through painting, woodcarving, embroidery, and statue-making. This is a great opportunity to interact and photograph the students while they practice their skills in the classroom.
National Library: The National Library was established in the late 1960s primarily to conserve the literary treasures which form a significant part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. It now houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature mostly in block-printed format, with some works several hundred years old. This collection, known as the Choekey Collection, mainly comprises Buddhist literature written in Choekey, the religious script of Northern Buddhism, but also includes works written in Tibetan and in Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language. The library also displays one of the biggest books in the world – “Bhutan” (a former Guinness Book of World Record holder). Besides its sheer size and weight, the continuously printed images (printed on a roll of paper longer than a football field and with a gallon of ink) are spectacular – vivid colors and human-size portraits.
Takin Zoo:A short distance up the road to the BBS tower viewpoint is a trail leading to a large fenced enclosure that was originally established as a zoo. Some years ago the fourth king decided that a zoo was not in sync with Bhutan’s environmental and religious convictions, and so it was disbanded. The animals were released into the wild, but the Takins, Bhutan’s national animal, were so tame that they wandered around the streets of Thimphu looking for food, and the only solution was to put them back into captivity.
Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery, popularly known as Zilukha Anim Dratshang, it is the only nunnery in the Capital. The nuns dedicate their lives to religion and provide social services to the local communities. They live within the premises of the temple in a close community (50-100 nuns) and like a family, each one of them is assigned daily chores and responsibilities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: dusitD2 Yarkay ThimphudusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu
Chorten Lam Thimphu , Kingdom of Bhutan, 11001, Bhutanhttps://www.dusit.com/dusitd2-yarkay-thimphu/+975 2 339 988Designed to reflect the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan’s captivating capital, dusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu welcomes guests with smart style and local charm.
Set on Chorten Lam near the main Thimphu Traffic Circle, the hotel enjoys an inner-city location within easy reach of Thimphu’s main attractions.
The lobby is adorned with local artworks, design features reference a beloved national folktale and facilities include a spa, a fully equipped gym and international restaurant.
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Day 11:
Paro District
After an early breakfast, set off for Phobjikha; driving up to Dochu-la pass (3,088m/10,130ft) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags that decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the high Himalayan peaks towards the northeast will be revealed in all their glory. If the day is very clear, the following peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendegang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158m), Kangphugang (7,170m), Zongaphugang (7,060m) a Table Mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana, and finally, Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m.
Then continue to Paro.
Enroute stop at the Iron Chain Bridge built in the early 15th century by the great iron bridge builder and Poet – Yogi Thangtong Gyalpo (1385-1464), who also built Dungtse Lhakhang in Paro and many iron bridges throughout Bhutan and Tibet. The iron bridge was carried away by floods in 1969 and a traditional style bridge with the original iron chains was built in 2005. Continue to Paro.
This beautiful valley encapsulates a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. It is home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, the country’s only airport, and the National Museum. Mt. Chomolhari (7,300m) reigns in white glory at the northern end of the valley, its glacial waters plunging through deep gorges to form the Pa Chu (Paro River). The Paro valley is one of the kingdom’s most fertile, producing the bulk of Bhutan’s famous red rice from its terraced fields.
On arrival visit the National Museum. The museum collection includes ancient Bhutanese art and artifacts, weapons, coins, stamps, and a small natural history collection.
Then walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong) situated at a commanding height overlooking Paro valley. Built by ShabdrungNgawangNamgyal in 1646, this Dzong now houses Paro’s monk body and the offices of the civil administration and is symbolic of the religious and secular center of all affairs of the valley. Walk down a paved stone path running alongside the imposing outer walls and across a traditional cantilever bridge adorned with colorful prayer flags. If you drive a little further down along the river, there is a good spot where you can capture all three sites – the Cantilever Bridge, Paro Dzong, and the National Museum.
Later, visit a Farmhouse to share a cup of traditional butter tea with the family.
Evening explores the quaint Paro town.Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
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Day 12:
Paro District
If you’re adventurous and physically fit, get ready for a memorable hike to the world-famous “Tiger’s Nest” or Taktsang Palphug Monastery. Located on the face of a sheer cliff above the floor of the Paro Valley, this not to be missed site is accessible by hiking. It is a strenuous uphill climb including over 700 steps. This sacred pilgrimage site is where the great tantric mystic, Padmasambhava flew on the back of a tiger and brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan (mythical belief). The Monastery clings to a cliff soaring 3,000 feet above the valley floor at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Along the way, you can hang prayer flags for world peace, or for people who are hungry, ill, or in pain. In Bhutan, people relate unhappiness to an imbalance of greed, anger, ignorance, ego, and jealousy. The prayers and mantras are written on the cloth. The prayer flags are usually hung outdoors in higher places where the winds are stronger. When prayer flags are hung it is believed to enhance the balance of the above attributes, thus creating happiness. This is also done to wish good tidings to other sentient beings.
Stop for lunch and admire the breathtaking views from the tea- cafeteria before slowly descending.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Naksel Boutique Hotel & SpaNaksel Boutique Hotel & Spa
Paro, Upper Ngoba Village, Paro, Bhutanhttps://www.naksel.com/+975 8 272 992Located thirty minutes from Paro International Airport, Naksel Boutique Hotel & Spa is a luxury retreat where the comforts of man and the presence of nature combine for a peaceful escape in the hills of Bhutan.
Nestled on the edge of the national forest and the quiet Ngoba Village, Naksel derives its name from the Dzongkha translation of ‘Forest,’ which is only fitting for this Himalayan sanctuary.
The main lodge and surrounding cottages of Naksel rest on more than six acres for forest land, at 2700 meters above sea level.
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Day 13:
New Delhi
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport to connect your flight to New Delhi.
On your arrival at Indira Gandhi international airport, our Explore India representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pullman New Delhi AerocityPullman New Delhi Aerocity
Asset No 02, Gmr Hospitality District, IGI Rd, Aerocity, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttps://all.accor.com/hotel/7559/index.en.shtml+91 11 4608 0808Combining lifestyle and design, for business and leisure . Whether traveling for business or just wishing to visit New Delhi and go around for shopping, Pullman New Delhi Aerocity is the perfect place to start your journey as your day begins from the luxurious comfort of our contemporary large rooms.
Suitably adjacent to international & domestic airport terminals, this 5-star hotel is well connected through the Airport Express Line, 5 minutes away. It is near the Cyber City and Delhi’s famous shopping malls like DLF Promenade, Emporio and Worldmark. The hotel is well positioned to attain a large segment of important Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) market as it is home to Delhi NCR’s largest convention space spread over a vast expanse of more than 40,000 sq.ft.
The hotel offers 670 spacious & luxurious rooms(including Novotel New Delhi) with 5-star amenities, Wi-Fi & 6 dining destinations for optimum comfort, convenience and connectivity. Visit the Pullman Wellness Spa & Salon, Fitness Center & the outdoor pool.
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Day 14:
Delhi - Home
Early morning transfer to airport to connect for your flight back home
What’s included
- Accommodation and meals breakfast, lunches & dinners as mentioned in the program
- International roundtrip airfare and all local flights including flights to Nepal & Bhutan
- Escorted Roundtrip Airport Transfers
- All transfers and sightseeing by air-conditioning coach / mini cars
- Entrance fees of all monuments as per itinerary
- Traditional mask dance and cultural show during welcome dinner in Thimphu
- Archery Demo in Paro the national sport of Bhutan
- Unlimited bottled water and soft drinks during long drives and sightseeing tours
- All government taxes including Royalty tax in Bhutan and all tourist visas to India, Nepal & Bhutan.
- Activities & exclusive events during the tour
24/7 Explore India concierge team to assist with any last-minute, unexpected, and unusual requests - Applicable taxes and fees
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, alcoholic beverages, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Taxes Additional $572 per person
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
Recent Reviews
My wife, Julia, and I wanted to express to you our satisfaction with all the arrangements that were made for our group during our travels in India. Everything was absolutely wonderful and went extremely smoothly. Our guide, Shyaam Singh, was totally amazing. He was truly a professional as well as more than flexible with making changes to our itinerary to suit our needs. His knowledge and experience was very apparent and most appreciated. Our group felt like Shyaam was part of our family and he included us in a very enjoyable experience with celebrating Diwali with one of his friends family while we were in Varanasi. This was a wonderful experience for our group. Shyaam made our experiences in India more wonderful than we could ever have expected. We will highly recommend Explore India to all of our friends, family and personal contacts for any travels to India. Thank you very much for all of your hard work put into making our travels such a beautiful experience. Sincerely, Gord and Julia Donaldson
Gord & Julia Donaldson
Calgary AB, Canada
Namaste Nazir Thanks for your note. You were certainly right about India being a Trip of a Lifetime and an adventure. We are so glad we went. We saw so many wonderful and awesome sights, and some we would rather not see. We did more adventures for fun, as in our elephant and camel rides, than we could ever imagine doing at home. Our tour guide, Yujurc, was exceptionally knowledgeable, very patient and always helpful. Our bus driver, Mr. Singh, was amazing to say the least and Surrinder treated us with help and respect and we were always happy to see his very kind smiling face. India is truly an amazing country with so many diversities and wonders to behold. We would not hesitate to recommend your tour company. We were very well looked after, and we never had to wait for Yujurc to lead us. When he said we were going to go somewhere or do something, that is what we did. Our flights were long but uneventful. Travel has always been an education for us, never more so than on our trip to India. Thank you,
Donna and Joe Treffers
Ottawa, Canada
Hi Nazir, Thanks for your welcome home note. I had a very enjoyable and interesting trip. We packed so much into each day thanks to the attention, knowledge and persistence of our wonderful leader, Arvind Sharma and the excellent bus drivers and their assistants on every journey. Namaste
Natalie Kotyck
Toronto, Canada
Dear Nazir, We had a wonderful trip and were very pleased with the quality of the tour. The staff was very professional and friendly. We really appreciated the friendliness and great care your clients received. We have already recommended your company to others and hope to return to India again. The highlights for us were the safari and visiting the Taj Mahal. One suggestion I have is to suggest clients bring candies or small gifts (pencils, pins etc.) or a book to give to the children in the villages. We have so many fond memories and new friendships from our voyage. I hope to use your services again soon. Namaste
Edward and Patrice Campagnaro
Summerland, Canada
Hi Nazir, Greg and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to India. We were impressed with the excellent service from all Explore India personnel. Your choice of hotels, points of interest and breakfasts were excellent. Our driver and bus helper were especially good. Thank you for a wonderful trip. Ram, ram
Elaine and Greg
Burnaby, Canada
This is how we tell it:) After reading an ad in the Globe& Mail, phone calls to Nazir (voice of confidence and charm) what could l say. Although it took some time to do some research and a few emails/calls finally it was a go... From the first morning at 300a.m.in our hotel in Delhi we first met our Leader we were confident we had made a good choice for our first trip to India. As we reflect the first thing that comes to mind is how well every detail was so well organized, the personal touch and the caring way that our Leader Nazir looked out for everyone was absolutely amazing.. Some of the many moments that stick out in my mind:) Never in my wildest dream had l ever thought of spending Valentine day in Old Delhi, the sights, the sounds & the crowds l could never imagine or was l prepared. The Jama Mosque, Bicycle Rickshaw ride(just one of several)memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, the Unesco sites, more Mosques, more Temples and. amazing Forts...To top off the day like all others to follow was the accommodations & dining experiences all extra-ordinary. We also remember Varnasi, the religious Capital of Hinduism again the Temples & Museum, the Banks of the Ganges to witness the ceremony of the Aarti to the sunrise early next morning to see the bathing Ghats. Also how could we ever forget another early morning to "The Jewel,The Great TAJ" There was so much more,2 memorable elephant rides, one in the early morning another at sunset through the bush ending with a party of entertainment, dancing and FOOD(always food)The most amazing evening Camel ride at a Safari Camp, again a lovely evening under the evening sky on the desert, another banquet with entertainment and dancing. No travel brochure or photo could ever capture any of these settings,They are more than words can explain. Everytime we tell friends or recall an experience we come up with more WOWS Nazir..not only were you our fearless leader but you were always showing your sincere concern that we all have a good time in your beloved country. We loved the trip, we enjoyed our travel companions and now we bask in the memories. Cheers,
Lorne & Dori Ebel
Orangeville, Canada
Just wanted to let you know what an awesome experience our trip to India was. Maxine and I really enjoyed it. Everyone in our group was wonderful and George sent us his amazing pictures. We would all laugh when we avoided what seemed to be an unavoidable head-on collision on the highway! I think the roads are the most amazing part of the trip. Our northern guide Mahendra added extras, like visits with his family, which really was special. The 4 of us who went south to Kerala were really glad we did…so different and beautiful. Can’t say enough about the trip. We would highly recommend it. If anyone is thinking about going and has any questions they can call me and I can tell them how wonderful it is.
Denise Fader
Chilliwack, Canada
Explore India Tour September – October 2015-10-27 Pre Tour; your notes and advice before the trip started proved to be very useful – from how to obtain a visa to suggestions of clothing to toiletries and travel insurance. I’d advise any traveler to read these carefully and apply the ones that suit. Flights: after flying such long distances with Cathay Pacific I have to say that I would fly with them again anywhere. Superb service. Also I was expecting less from the Indian regional airlines but Spicejet and Indigo exceeded the performance of any regional airline I have flown with in North America. Air India is not so great! Hotels: again, I was astonished at the quality of the Hotels and the facilities offered. The variety was also beyond expectation. The Greenhouse Hotel in Pushkar is unique – I could have stayed another week and dinner on the roof at the palace hotel in Ranthambore was magical. Food: We were never short of drinking water on the bus – thanks to the kind attention of the driver and the hotels which provided it freely. Sadly I am not one who can eat hot, spicy foods and the foods at most of the dinner buffets were heavily spiced and I had to circumvent many offerings. Western foods are more available at breakfast buffets and I would advise travellers to eat a hearty breakfast. Towards the end of our trip I had to admit that there was little chance of mild spice so gave up trying. I did find that an occasional energy bar went a long way to solving this problem. Daily Tours: in general the topics were very interesting and some excelled. I cannot imagine anything in the world that is as beautiful as the Taj Mahal. It brings tears to the eyes. The boat cruise at Udaipur was reminiscent of Venice and the tour of the palace there quite illuminating. The visit to the Exotic Marigold Hotel near Jaipur was sheer delight. Lunch was hot! I didn’t expect to see too many tigers at the tour of Ranthambore National Park and was not disappointed. It was, however, pleasant to get out into the more untouched countryside. Probably, with some exceptions, my strongest memories and the completely enjoyable part was the getting there. The bus journeys were so full, so complete, so much of the human experience that I was always sorry when we arrived at our destination yet what we found once there was another unique experience. Personnel: I cannot say too much about the people on your team. Obviously there is no such thing as equal so some must stand out. Raheev, your Operations Manager, talked to us individually each day to monitor progress and seek to know if there were any changes he could initiate to make our trip better. Your local manager in each town was on site to greet us and explain the local programme and introduce the guide. The Guides: all tried to make their own particular place especially interesting. I do think that some guides might work harder to improve their language skills. Some start speaking slowly and concisely and, getting excited about the message, speed up and lose some of their precision. I know that they are speaking infinitely better English than I could ever speak Hindi but it’s useful to remember that listening very, very carefully to language other than one’s own can be very tiring. In my own work before retirement I was in similar situations often and know the weariness that language can bring. The Guides could mix up the message so that some modern facts and events are mixed in with the history. If I were doing their job I’d be tempted to also distribute a brief “info highlights” sheet – not to replace the spoken script but to augment it. There were several anecdotal events with Guides, some hilarious, some touching, but never did they allow us to put ourselves at risk. They all were watching over us. Drivers: the client is with the driver for most of the tour. We became fast friends with our driver BaBu who nursed us like a mother hen for twelve days. He checked on us before leaving each morning with a broad grin and “Good morning everybody. Passports, wallets?” He never once exhibited irritation or annoyance with the road or traffic conditions and was patience itself when we caused delays. He could find anything (Strepsils for a viciously sore throat) and weave his way through traffic like a camel through the eye of a needle. He proved to be a gem in Explore India’s crown. Varanasi: when arranging the trip you suggested we add a visit to Varanasi to our itinerary with the words (paraphrased) “some people think you haven’t seen India unless you’ve seen Varanasi”. Sounded like a sales pitch to me but I went along with it and how right you were. It is everything one imagines India to be – everything you’ve seen in National Geographic. The Ganges, the Holy Men, The Cremation Site, the Museum and archaeological site where Buddha gave his first sermon. Even the streets seem different - Spiritual (?) - despite the mess. But even in Varanasi it’s still people who make the difference and you have an excellent local manager but brilliant guide. Jha Rahi, a very spiritual and academic man was a joy to be with and he explained many of the mysteries of the local condition and the seeming religious contradictions. If asked, I would undoubtedly say that the once in a lifetime memories would be of the Taj Mahal and Varanasi – and our driver’s skill in traffic. Others would point to the day we saw a Black Python trying to cross the road in front of us or the death defying traffic in Old Delhi or the three hundred booth carpet exhibition that Jha managed to get us into. Perhaps the thing that everyone could remember would be how the staff of Explore India paid such great care and concern to the safety, well-being and pleasure of their clients. Summary: perhaps, most important is how a client would answer the question “Would you go again and would you go with Explore India”? My response would be a heartfelt “Yes – in a heartbeat”.
F & D Watts
Port Coquitlam, Canada
It was AWESOME! I can't say enough good things about the trip and in particular about our guide Muzaffar Shah. Everything was well organized and ran on time, the food was great, I absolutely loved that water was always available on the bus, we saw enough sights to feel like we knew India, and had enough down time to recover and wander around a bit. The hotels and food were lovely and we saw THREE tigers!! Shah knew the absolutely perfect balance between friend/friendly, and tour guide. I have told several people to put India on their bucket list and when they decide to go they should book through you and ask for Shah!! Prior to the trip I found that both you and Mandira were extremely friendly and helpful and in fact I just got off the phone with her! Thank you for a wonderful experience! Janet
Janet Marcoux
Saskatoon SK, Canada
We had a fantastic time on your organized tour over the 12 nights and 13 days spent in India. Your contact in New Delhi Mr. K.R.Joshi was very helpful. He met us at the Park Hotel the 1st day we went there. He gave us all the Hotel Vouchers, Travel Car arrangements, Rail sleeper car Tickets and the internal Flight Travel Vouchers. He stayed in touch with us all the time and contacted us through the various drivers in all the Cities. He also met us on the eve of our departure. Also we have to mention your contact in Srinagar, Kashmir, Mr. Rafeek. He booked us in a super luxury Houseboat. He brought us new towels and soap from his own home as the ones supplied by the Boathouse were not too good. The boat house-keeper was excellent. He served the meals personally and waited on us till we finished the meal. The meals supplied by him were really good. He made special Kashmir Biriyani and mutton curry for us for the last dinner. We also have to mention about your driver Mr. Hilal in Srinagar who brought us to the local airport from the boat-house. He came with us right through to airport security with our luggage and booked us at the check-in desk and took us to the Airport gate for our flight. He was very helpful as not many clerks at this airport spoke English and the security was very strict. All your drivers came on time to pick us for the Tours. They were very courteous and very careful. Your travel guides were very knowledgeable and good. Please mention the baggage allowance in writing along with your e-tickets. We had difficulty at Varnasi Airport with the check-in clerk. She said we both can take only two pieces with a combined weight of 40 kg. She delayed us over 25 minutes at the check-in and we had remove some clothes from our bags into our hand luggage. This is the only snag we had in India. We would gladly recommend your services and travel bookings to other Canadians who would like to see a good part of India. Also we would like to advise people never to travel on your own to a country like India.
Sudu & Rani Gunadasa
Vancouver, Canada
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