Land of the Peaceful Dragon — if ever there was an intriguing description of a country, this must be it. A land of friendly, devout Buddhists, mountain monasteries and snow-capped 22,000-foot peaks, Bhutan and its neighbors, Darjeeling and Sikkim, are the cultural explorer’s Philosopher’s Stone.
Our trip begins with a short flight to the Nepal/India border. From here, we drive to the former hill station of Darjeeling, famous for its tea plantations, temperate climate and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Views of Kanchenjunga (the world’s third highest mountain) and a visit to a tea plantation feature prominently during our days in Darjeeling.
In Sikkim, a kingdom formerly closed to tourists, be awe-inspired by spectacular views of mountain peaks. Experience a rare opportunity to mix with a traditional Himalayan community, considered by many to be the last Shangri-La.
We travel to Bhutan along winding mountain roads. We visit Thimpu, the nation’s capital, and wander through markets, Buddhist temples and monasteries. We watch local craftsmen working with wood, silver and gold. We journey to Punakha via the Duchola Pass, with its stunning views of the Himalayas.
Add a visit to Paro, where one can hike, or travel by horseback to Taktsang Monastery, and encounter Bhutan’s gentle and gracious people. It’s the perfect recipe for a magical itinerary set against the mystical backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. |
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Day 1 Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 2 Kathmandu — Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath Day 3 Fly to Bhadrapur, Nepal Day 4 Darjeeling — Mt. Kanchenjunga
Day 5 Darjeeling — Mountaineering Institute Day 7 Gangtok — Rumtek Monastery Day 8 Institute of Tibetology and Enchey Monastery Day 10 Phuntsoling, Bhutan
Day 12 Thimpu, Duchola Pass, Wangdi Day 13 Punakha, Wangdi Fort Day 14 Punakha, Duchola Pass, Simotka Fort Day 15 Paro Sightseeing, Taktsang Day 17 Bhaktapur and Patan Accommodations
Comfortable hotels with private washrooms.
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