Exploring the Himalayas: 13 Day Classic Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Overland Tour
This 13-day overland tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore three of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse countries in the Himalayas: Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan. Each country boasts unique traditions, stunning landscapes, and deeply spiritual settings that provide a profound experience for travelers.
Tour Overview
Key Destinations: Lhasa (Tibet), Kathmandu (Nepal), Thimphu and Paro (Bhutan)
Main Attractions: Potala Palace, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Punakha Dzong, Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Activities: City tours, monastery visits, scenic drives, light trekking
Detailed Itinerary for the 13-Day Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
- Arrive in Lhasa, Tibet. Transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day acclimatizing to the high altitude.
- Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 2: Lhasa City Tour
- Visit Potala Palace, the historic winter home of the Dalai Lama.
- Explore Jokhang Temple, a spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism.
- Walk through Barkhor Street, bustling with pilgrims and market stalls.
- Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 3: More Explorations in Lhasa
- Visit Drepung Monastery, once the world’s largest monastery with about 10,000 monks.
- Explore Sera Monastery, famous for its debate sessions on Buddhist doctrines.
- Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 4: Lhasa to Gyantse to Shigatse
- Drive to Gyantse via Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes.
- Visit Gyantse Kumbum and Pelkor Chode Monastery.
- Continue to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.
- Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 5: Shigatse to Kathmandu
- Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse.
- Travel overland to the border and enter Nepal, heading to Kathmandu.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 6: Kathmandu Sightseeing
- Tour Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa.
- Experience the vibrant streets of Thamel.
- Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 7: Kathmandu to Paro to Thimphu
- Fly from Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan.
- Visit the National Museum and Rinpung Dzong in Paro.
- Drive to Thimphu.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 8: Thimphu Sightseeing
- Visit the King’s Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, and the Folk Heritage Museum.
- Explore the vibrant local markets.
- Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 9: Thimphu to Punakha
- Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
- Visit Punakha Dzong and the suspension bridge.
- Overnight in Punakha.
Day 10: Punakha to Paro
- Return to Paro.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 11: Trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
- Trek to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery).
- Spend the afternoon exploring Paro or relaxing.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 12: Paro Leisure Day
- Enjoy a leisure day in Paro with optional activities such as a hot stone bath or a traditional Bhutanese meal.
- Overnight in Paro.
Day 13: Departure
- Depart from Paro International Airport.
This 13-day classic Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan overland tour is designed for travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the rich spiritual heritage and natural beauty of the Himalayas. It combines historic sites, spiritual encounters, and natural wonders, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable experience across three distinct countries
