India Nepal Bhutan Buddhist Tour

India Nepal Bhutan Buddhist Tour

Dochula Pass, Thimphu

For your convenience, this 18 days tour of India Nepal Bhutan Buddhist Tour starts from Delhi before flying to Bodhgaya, place where Lord Buddha was enlightened. After spending quality time here, we will fly to Nepal to enjoy the birth place of Lord Buddha. In Nepal we will cover to see renowned temples including Lumbini before flying to Bhutan. Bhutan is only Buddhist kingdom in the world where the teaching of Lord Buddha is still immensely practiced. There are centuries old temples, fortress and unique culture to enjoy and learn more of Buddhist ‘A way to leading better life and be helpful to rest of the people’. Buddhism is rather learning to live better than more of religion. Book this days tour with HBT which ends in Bhutan before you flying back home. India Nepal Bhutan Buddhist Tour. 

Day 01: Arrival in Delhi
On arrival at Delhi, you will be received and transferred to the hotel. Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. Later if time permits, we will visit. Delhi is the capital city of India and is regarded as the heart of the nation. The city is popular for its enriched culture and heritage. The city hosts some famous historical monuments and is developing with the passing of time. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Delhi

Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing
Delhi is India’s national capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Delhi is home to a colorful tapestry of major monuments, archeological remnants as well as modern iconic buildings. Alternatively, New Delhi is also called Lutyens Delhi. This part of Delhi was purpose- built as a modern capital by the British imperial administrators of India when the capital was moved to Delhi from Kolkata in 1911. Laxmi Narayan Temple– Popularly Known as Birla Mandir, it’s a large Hindu Temple built in Orissa style in 1938, by the renowned Birla family. People of all faiths can worship at this temple. Bahai Temple– Situated atop the Kalkaji Hill. Its also known as “The Lotus Temple” due to its distinctive lotus shaped design in Marble. It was built in 1987 by the followers of Bahai faith. The temple signifies the purity and equality of all religions. Qutab Minar– It is an excellent example of Afghan Architecture . The Minar is 72.5mts high victory tower. It has been given World Heritage Site status. Gandhi’s Smriti– This house is where Gandhi spent the final days of his life and where he was assassinated. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 03: Delhi- Bodh Gaya
Take the flight to Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is a village in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. Considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 04: Bodh Gaya Sightseeing
Bodh Gaya is famous for Mahabodhi Temple, it was here undr the Bodhi tree that Budhha attained enlightenment. It is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mahabodhi Temple– The Mahabodhi temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It is a Buddhist temple that marks the location where the Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Bodhi Tree– It marks the spot where the original Bodhi tree once stood, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Pragbodhi– It is believed that Lord Buddha spent seven years living an austere life in a cave in this hill before he attained enlightenment. Great Buddha Statue– The Great Buddha Statue is an awe-inspiring sight, standing at a height of about 25 m. It is believed to be one of the largest statues in India and shows Lord Buddha sitting on a lotus in a meditative pose. It was unveiled and consecrated on November 18, 1989, and the ceremony was attended by the 14th Dalai Lama who blessed the site. Vishnupad Temple– It is another famous piece of architecture in Gaya. The temple is dedicated to Lord Bishnu and marked by his foorprint, which is also known as Dharmasila. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 05: Day Excursion to Ragir & Nalanada
Rajgir is an ancient city in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. Surrounded by hills, it’s known for its holy sites. Nalanda marks the site of the once famous Buddhist university also known as the Nalanda University, which has also been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ragir– The largest city in Majjhimadesa during the Buddha’s time. Tranquil Vulture’s Peak– It is also known as the Holy Eagle Peak. Vulture Peak is considered to be the second “holiest” place of Buddhism, after the Maha Bodhi Temple because this is the place where the Buddha spent so much time on retreat, meditating, and teaching so many discourses. This is also a perfect place for meditation. The Ruins of Nalanda University– It is spread over 14 hectares of land. One can see many Buddhist structures including stupas, chaityas, temples and monasteries. Stupa of Sariputta– It was a place where Lord Buddha believed to have attained salvation. Evening retrace the drive back to Bodh Gaya. Overnight in Bodh Gaya.

Day 06: Bodh Gaya Sightseeing
The life of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, is associated with the small town of Bodhgaya. It is one of the four holiest cities of Buddhist faith. Bodhgaya is not only an important Buddhist pilgrim center, but it is also an important center for the study of Buddhism. Muchalinda Sarovar- This is a holy pond in Bodh Gaya town, it’s name is derived from the snake king of the pond. Buddha spent sixth week meditating at this place after attaining awakening. Chinese Temple– The temple houses three golden statues of Lord Buddha and many inscriptions on the wall are engraved in Chinese. It was built by Buddhist monks with assistance from Chinese Government. Thai Monastery– It was built in the year 1956 by the then Thailand Monarch. The monastery reflects an exceptional blend of Thai Buddhist architecture with sloping roof curved at the corners and adorned with golden tiles. As you enter inside, a 25-meter high bronze statue of Lord Budhha catches attention. Royal Bhutan Monastery– Built at the command of King of Bhutan as a tribute to Lord Buddha. The monastery has a beautiful Buddha temple housing a magnificent statue of Lord Buddha. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 07: Bodh Gaya- Kathmandu
On arrival at Kathmandu, you will be received and transferred to the hotel. Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. Later if time permits, we will visit. Kathmandu Durbar Square– It is a World Heritage Site. Kathmandu Durbar square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. This ancient palace lies in the heart of the city. Stroll around Thamel town– It is a haven for tourists visiting the city. It contains numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops that cater specifically to western tourists. Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 08: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city in Nepal, sits at the heart of Kathmandu Valley, listed since 1979 as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Called city of Temples, Kathmandu is a holy land for you to discover the abundant culture and grand natural beauty in Durbar Squares, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple and etc. Pashupathinath Temple– One of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal – Pashupatinath Temple is located on both banks of Bagmati River on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu. The massive Pashupatinath complex is one of the holiest pilgrimage spots in Nepal. Boudhanath Stupa– It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Boudha stupa is semicircle shaped and contains the relics and remaining of Buddha.The giant Boudhanath stupa is a gateway to heaven serving as a horizon between the earth and sky. Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple)- The Swayambhunath Stupa, an icon of Nepal, is an ancient religious structure on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley.From the Swayambhunath stupa, you will have an amazing view of Kathmandu and the valley. Bhaktapur Durbar Square– Bhaktapur Durbar Square, renowned for its antique heritages from the 15th century displays the masterwork of metal, wood, and stone arts. It in fact exhibits the vividness of very old era. Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 09: Kathmandu- Lumbini
After breakfast drive to Lumbini. You will drive from Kathmandu to Naubise on the Tribhuvan Highway. From Naubise, we continue drive along Prithvi Highway till Narayanghat and from there we drive through Mahendra Highway until we reach Lumbini. Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world’s great religions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Lumbini

Day 10: Lumbini Sightseeing
Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, was born in 623 B.C. in the famous gardens of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Lumbini happens to be one of the famous tourist destinations, a Mecca for the devotees and believers all over the world. Blessed with the various sites, instruments and shrines of various stages of Buddha’s life, Lumbini offers a variety of attractions related to the different occurrences in Buddha’s life. Maya Devi Temple– The most sacred site in the Lumbini Garden where archaeologists have identified the exact spot where Lord Buddha was born. This temple is dedicated to Maya Devi- Lord Buddha’s mother. Ashoka Pillar– Built in the year 259BC, this pillar was built by King Ashok, who was Buddhist. On the surface of the pillar, the wording says that the local king had announced Lumbini to be free of tax as it was the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Myanmar Golden Temple– This temple is built in Myanmar architecture. This is one of the oldest structures of Lumbini. Pushkarni Pond– This is the pond where Mayadevi is said to have had a bath before giving birth to Buddha. Ramagram– It is believed to be the maternal home of Buddha. This is where we can see the biggest stupa, with important relics. It is said that it was built around 600 B.C. World Peace Pagoda– This bright white pagoda is located right outside Lumbini. This structure has a large gold statue of Buddha in his birth position. This pagoda was built in the cost of one million USD. Overnight in Lumbini

Day 11: Lumbini – Kathmandu
Retrace the drive back to Kathmandu via Tribhuvan Highway. Kathmandu is the capital of the kingdom, situated in a valley which is an open air museum of famous sites, ancient temples and shrines & golden pagodas. It is a city of inexhaustible historic artistic and cultural interest. Kumari House– Historical palace of the living goddess Kumari who is worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists. Evening at leirsure or free for shopping. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 12: Kathmandu- Paro- Thimphu
Fly on the wings of the Dragon to Bhutan, on arrival in Paro International Airport, complete the immigration formalities and exit through only one arrival gate where HBT dedicated team who will be holding placard, no one will be missed. We welcome with khaddar and proceed to Thimphu which will take about an hour and half. The route will follow Paro River until Chuzom from where we will bend towards Thimphu river taking us to the heart of capital city Thimphu. The entire stretch of drives is very scenic and picturesque as we pass by some of the beautiful villages of Bondey, Shaba, Isina etc until we enter welcome gate in Thimphu. Tachongang Lhakhang- En-route to Thimphu, stopover for little leg stretch walk crossing Paro River or enjoy the views from the roadside depending your arrival time. Chuzom- Meeting point of two rivers (Thimphu & Paro) this is tri junction of highway leading to Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing into three directions. Enjoy the lovely picture of beautiful portrait of our King and Queen placed at chuzom which is so welcoming to all who visits Bhutan. Overnight in Thimphu, altitude 2400m

Day 13: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu- This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. National Memorial Chorten- It is located close to the center of Thimphu city and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circumambulating the Chorten throughout the day. The National Memorial Chorten was built in memory of Late Third King of Bhutan and dedicated to World Peace. Third King is regarded as father of modern Bhutan. Buddha Dordenma- The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. The Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic 51.5-meter tall statue, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. Changangkha Lhakhang– It is an ancient fortress like temple built in 12th century on a sacred location chosen by Lam Phajo Dugom Zhigpo. It is the most important temple for the children born in Thimphu since the protective deity of children resides in this temple. Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery– It is a Buddhist monastery located in Zilukha overlooking Tashichodzong. At present the nunnery still functions as an institutes were women of Bhutan who are admitted at the nunnery are educated in Buddhism and after they graduate these nuns dedicate their lives for community service. Folk Heritage Museum-This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Tashichho Dzong-Houses the throne room of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and government secretariat buildings, beautiful arts and crafts, built in 17^th century. Visitors are open for an hour in the evening and closed during official meeting or gathering. Overnight in Thimphu

Day 14: Thimphu- Punakha
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours. After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. Dochula Pass- The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Chimi Lhakhang- This temple is known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that childless couples can visit this temple to pray for better fertility to conceive the child. There are stories and incidences that many visitors dream came true however one must truly need to believe and follow the lama’s instruction. The hike though the lovely villages of Mesina gives truly amazing experience. Enjoy the gentle walks from the road head. Punakha Dzong- Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952.  This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands in between meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m

Day 15: Punakha- Phobjikha
The road to Phobjikha passes through old town of Wangdue taking us through the black mountain region into Gangtey. The drive also passes through some of the most beautiful forests, water fall, hills, river and villages and Pelela pass before stepping into Phobjikha. Enjoy the most scenic and adventurous drive today with HBT. Gangtey Gompa- The temple built over hill top, headed by Gangtey Tulku the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Annual festival of Gangtey is performed in the temple courtyard every year. This is also the place for black necked crane’s festival held every year on 11-Nov, coinciding with His Majesty’s Fourth King’s Birthday. Gangtey Nature Trail- It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. It offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes. All-time best trail and it takes approx. 2 hours, the trails ends at the road next to Khewang Lhakhang. Black Necked Crane Information Centre- This place is run by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) and has an observation room with high-power telescopes and good scope for spotting the famous Black Necked Cranes which migrates to the region during winter. It also displays information about the history of the region. Overnight in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m

Day 16: Phobjikha- Paro
As we say good bye to the Asian Switzerland, we will retrace the journey back to Thimphu crossing over Pelela, Wangdue, Dochula, up until Chuzom and further to Paro. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas. Rinpung Dzong- ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport.  The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. National Museum of Paro- Perched above Paro Dzong it was watchtower built in 1649 to protect the undefended Paro Dzong located below, renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. Today this museum houses the best collections of all time historical items making worth for a visit. Kichu Lhakhang- Temple considered sacred Jewel of Bhutan was established by the Buddhist King Songstsen Gampo of Tibet to overcome the giant ogress that laid across Tibet and Himalayas preventing the spread of Buddhism. The king is believed to have built the temple at the left foot of the enormous ogress. Kichu Lhakhang was among 12 temples in Bhutan out of 108 temples said to have been constructed over single night. Kichu Lhakhang was initially small in size however later, the temple expanded both in grandeur and size to its form that we see today. Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 17: Paro Sightseeing
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Paro has more of historical sites, high-end tourist resort and many souvenir shops for shopping including world famous Takstang. Taktsang/Tiger’s Nest Temple– is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious Buddhist site in the world. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan which clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley. Although good trekkers can make it to the top in two hours, most of the guests take whole day to complete the hike. Outdoor Activities- Nicely made and well maintained activity place attached to whole sell Buddha statue store, offers wearing Bhutanese dress, playing archery and darts for guests visiting Bhutan. The center is maintained and operated by HBT herself and its free of cost for all HBT guests. Overnight in Paro

Day 18: End of the Tour
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan

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