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Culture Trip / Tibet The Ultimate Himalayan Excursion in Nepal, Tibet and BhutanNext tentative Date: Available as a Private Trek on a date of your preference.
A transformative journey through Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, where timeless spirituality, awe-inspiring landscapes, and ancient traditions await, offering an experience like no other. |
Overview
Highlights
| The Spirit of Lhasa: Discover Lhasa's spiritual heart as you visit the iconic Potala Palace, and the sacred Jokhang Temple. Stroll through Barkhor Street’s vibrant marketplace and witness lively monk debates at Sera Monastery, immersing yourself in Tibet's profound beauty and culture. | |
| High Passes and Yamdrok Lake: Journey through the breathtaking Kampa La and Karo La passes, where winding mountain roads unveil dramatic landscapes, from arid plateaus to towering, snow-capped peaks. Along the way, marvel at the turquoise beauty of Yamdrok Lake, a sacred gem nestled amidst this stunning Himalayan scenery. | |
| Annapurna Hike and Pokhara Wellness : Embark on a peaceful hike in the Annapurna foothills, with views of iconic peaks like Machapuchare and Annapurna South. Then, unwind with wellness experiences in Pokhara, nestled beside the tranquil Begnas Lake, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. | |
| Chitwan Safari Adventure: Embark on an exhilarating safari in Chitwan National Park, exploring dense jungles teeming with wildlife. Spot one-horned rhinos and a rich array of bird species, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Nepal's premier wildlife sanctuary. | |
| Ethical Elephant Experience: Connect with nature through ethical elephant activities, where you go on a bush walk with the majestic creatures roaming chain-free. End your day with a serene sundowner by the river, sharing unforgettable moments in the company of elephants in their natural habitat. | |
| Kathmandu Durbar Square Sightseeing: Step into the heart of Kathmandu’s history at Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with intricate temples, ancient palaces, and bustling courtyards. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and timeless charm of Nepal's architectural and spiritual heritage. | |
| Bhutan's Spiritual and Scenic Treasures: Explore Bhutan’s enchanting beauty, from the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliffside to the vibrant Paro and Thimphu valleys. Visit ancient fortresses like the Punakha Dzong, immerse yourself in colorful festivals, and wander through peaceful monasteries, all while experiencing Bhutan’s unique culture, spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes. | |
| Traditional Hot Stone Bath and Archery Experience: Indulge in a rejuvenating traditional hot stone bath, a centuries-old Bhutanese healing practice that soothes the body in mineral-rich waters. Then, immerse yourself in Bhutan's national sport with an exciting archery experience, where you can try your hand at this ancient tradition in a scenic, culturally rich setting. |
Best time to go
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
JanFebMarAprMayJun
JulAugSepOctNovDec
Summer is the warmest time of the year, with temperatures ranging between 8°C/46°F to 15°C/59°F. July and August bring rainfall to some areas and can sometimes be humid. Nights remain cold. This is also a popular time to visit Tibet.
| Group size | Price per person* |
| 4-7 people | Inquire |
| 8 people & above | Inquire |
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Valid until Dec 31st, 2025
Itinerary
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Day 1 |
Arrival in Kathmandu (Nepal) |
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Day 2 |
Kathmandu - Pokhara - Dhampus |
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Day 3 |
Dhampus - Australian Camp - Pokhara |
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Day 4 |
Pokhara - Chitwan |
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Day 5 |
Chitwan safari |
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Day 6 |
Chitwan - Kathmandu |
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Day 7 |
Kathmandu (Nepal) - Paro (Bhutan) - Thimpu |
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Day 8 |
Thimpu Exploration |
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Day 9 |
Thimpu - Punakha |
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Day 10 |
Punakha valley exploration |
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Day 11 |
Punakha - Paro (Retrace the trails) |
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Day 12 |
Taktsang excursion (Hike to the Tiger's Nest) |
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Day 13 |
Paro (Bhutan) - Kathmandu (Nepal) |
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Day 14 |
Kathmandu (Nepal) - Chengdu (China) |
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Day 15 |
Chengdu - Lhasa (3,650m/11,975ft) |
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Day 16 |
Lhasa sightseeing tour (Potala Palace and monasteries exploration) |
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Day 17 |
Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake |
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Day 18 |
Lhasa Departure |
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Day 1 |
Arrival in Kathmandu (Nepal) |
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Drive from Kathmandu to hotel |
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Welcome dinner at Nepal's architecturally marvellous hotel |
Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: Shankar Hotel, Kathmandu
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Day 2 |
Kathmandu - Pokhara - Dhampus |
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Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara |
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Drive or hike to the mountain town of Dhampus |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodges of Nepal Dhampus
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Day 3 |
Dhampus - Australian Camp - Pokhara |
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Hike from Dhampus to Australian Camp, and back 3 to 4 hrs |
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Drive from Dhampus to Pokhara 1 to 1.5 hrs |
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Evening stroll at Lakeside and dinner overlooking the lake. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Begnas Lake Resort
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Day 4 |
Pokhara - Chitwan |
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Fly from Pokhara to Chitwan 20 mins |
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Drive to Amaltari 1.5 to 2 hrs |
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Sunset bush walk and sundowner with elephants |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
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Day 5 |
Chitwan safari |
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Jungle safari inside Chitwan National Park |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge
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Day 6 |
Chitwan - Kathmandu |
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Canoeing river safari 1 to 2 hrs |
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Drive to Chitwan airport |
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Fly to Kathmandu |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shankar Hotel, Kathmandu
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Day 7 |
Kathmandu (Nepal) - Paro (Bhutan) - Thimpu |
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Fly from Kathmandu to Paro 45 mins |
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Drive from Paro to Thimpu 1 hr Step into the kingdom of Bhutan by landing at Paro International Airport. Depending on the arrival time, we will have a quick lunch or coffee break in Paro town and continue on a picturesque one-hour drive to Thimphu. At Thimpu, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, lively markets and the pulse of the town. We conclude our day at our hotel in Thimpu. If you arrive early, we take you to Tachogang Lhakhang enroute Thimpu. This spiritual haven pays homage to Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as 'The Iron Bridge Builder’. We walk past the iron suspension bridge and explore the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 8 |
Thimpu Exploration |
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Thimpu valley excursion Today, we have a line up of interesting exploration and cultural immersion waiting us including Kuensel Phodrang / Buddha Point – 51.5 meters Shakyamuni Buddha statue and view of Thimphu valley. You can also opt for an hour’s hike around the Buddha. Besides, we also visit Memorial Chorten / Stupa – Congregation of devout Buddhists circumambulating the Chorten from dawn till dusk, Bhutan Postal Museum -make your personalized stamps with your photo and use them to send postcards to your family and friends around the world, Takin Preserve – Takin the national animal of Bhutan, Centenary Farmers Market/Kaja Throm, Craft Bazaar – single line of shops selling traditional made in Bhutan arts and crafts. If time permits, we will also explore Tashi Chho Dzong/ Fortress of Splendid Religion - office of the Golden Throne of the Dragon King. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 9 |
Thimpu - Punakha |
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Drive from Thimpu to Punakha with exploration on the way Set off on a captivating 2-hour drive to Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Along the way, we catch your breath at Dochula Pass, 3,150 meters high. On clear days, one can witness the awe-inspiring snow-capped Himalayas. We will also explore the 108 chortens, Lobesa market and the famed Chime Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility. Marvel at the newly renovated Wangdue Dzong and take a leisurely stroll through quaint market pockets. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 10 |
Punakha valley exploration |
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Explore Punakha (The old capital) Embark on an enriching 2-hour hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel, treated to captivating valley vistas, terraced paddy fields, and a meandering river. Explore the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong, a Fortress of Great Bliss, and cross the longest iron suspension bridge on foot. Behold the breathtaking valley from Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, where engaging interactions with English-speaking nuns await. The day wraps up with a comfortable night's stay at your Punakha hotel. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 11 |
Punakha - Paro (Retrace the trails) |
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Drive from Punakha to Paro Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive back to Paro. We check-in at the hotel and catch a quick rest. |
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Explore Paro and visit Paro Dzong Visit Paro Dzong and meander through the quaint Paro town and the vibrant markets. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 12 |
Taktsang excursion (Hike to the Tiger's Nest) |
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Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft) 5 to 6 hrs Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft) 4 to 5 hrs | 9 kms (5.5 mi) After breakfast, we gear up for an invigorating hike to the most important cultural icon of Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery. The hike is a 3-hour uphill journey rewarded with a 2-hour downhill trek. On the way, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century. |
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Archery and exploration Later, you have the options to engage in traditional archery for some Bhutanese fun, and delve into the culinary culture with a Bhutanese cooking experience, either learning the craft or creating your own delectable meal. |
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Traditional hot stone bath We end our trip with a traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse in Paro - white round stones picked up from the riversides are roasted in fire until red hot and then immersed in a wooden tub of fresh spring water sprinkled with herbs. These hot stones baths are supposed to be very curative with numerous medicinal and healing properties and has been the practice since the ancient times in Bhutan. We have a farewell dinner with our team at the hotel. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 13 |
Paro (Bhutan) - Kathmandu (Nepal) |
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Fly from Paro to Kathmandu |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Shankar Hotel, Kathmandu
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Day 14 |
Kathmandu (Nepal) - Chengdu (China) |
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Swayambhunath stupa morning kora |
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Fly from Kathmandu to Chengdu |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 15 |
Chengdu - Lhasa (3,650m/11,975ft) |
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Fly to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region Tentative flight departure time from Chengdu: 08:00 and arrival in Lhasa: 10:25 |
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Acclimatization, easy exploration around Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Market You can rest for the day or go walking around for acclimatization. We will have a briefing over dinner. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 16 |
Lhasa sightseeing tour (Potala Palace and monasteries exploration) |
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Explore Potala Palace, and a traditional village near Lhasa Our sightseeing tour begins with the magnificent Potala Palace. Its layered structure houses intricate chambers adorned with sacred art. |
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Explore Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery After lunch, we continue our tour to Drepung Monastery which showcases exquisite architecture and peaceful courtyards. Later at Sera Monastery, we experience a tranquil ambiance against the backdrop of beautiful murals. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 17 |
Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake |
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Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok lake Today, you'll drive to the stunning Yamdrok Lake in Tibet, passing over the high Kampa La (4750m) and Karo La (5010m) passes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and turquoise waters. Enjoy breathtaking views, take beautiful photos, and explore this sacred lake, believed to be a goddess in transformation. Continue your drive to Gyantse to visit the 15th-century Pelkhor Monastery, renowned for its vivid murals, clay sculptures, and the coexistence of three Tibetan Buddhist sects (Gelug, Sakya, and Kagyu). If time allows, explore the chapels of the iconic Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city, where you'll arrive in the late afternoon. |
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
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Day 18 |
Lhasa Departure |
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Drive from hotel to airport |
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Fly out of Lhasa |
Meals Included: Breakfast
Customize this trip
Kathmandu Hotel and Transfers
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If you’d like us to organize airport transfers and arrange your stay in Kathmandu or any other cities, let us know. We’re happy to give you options based on your preference, and book them for you.
Here’s one of our popular 2 days add-on: USD 185 per person:
- Airport pick up and drop off, facilitated by an English-speaking representative
- 2 nights in a four-star hotel in Kathmandu (Hotel Shankar or similar) on bed & breakfast plan and twin-sharing basis