Sat 2-Dec Arrive in Kathmandu. Sun 3-Dec Explore Kathmandu s most iconic sites. Fly to Pokhara. Explore Pokhara. Mon 4-Dec

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2 The land of the Thunder Dragon, is an extraordinary place. Vast and impressive fortresses, known as Dzongs, dominate Bhutan's landscape - from the wide subtropical valleys in the south to the Himalayan mountain ranges of the north. One of the world's biodiversity hotspots, Bhutan's national animal is the Takin - legend says it is half goat, half cow. This is a country where selling cigarettes or plastic bags is illegal, where giant protective penises are painted on the walls, where chillies and cheese with red rice is the national dish, and where Gross National Happiness is deemed more important than Gross National Product. is of course synonymous with the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas and its highest mountains, awe inspiring treks, and rich religious cultures, but this breath taking country offers even more. The warmth of the subtropical south is home to an abundance of exotic wildlife in stark contrast to frozen peaks of the north. A diverse people farm terraces clinging on to hillsides and the country is shaped by the ancient trade routes between India and Tibet. New wonders are around every corner and open arms will welcome you as the country rebuilds itself after the devastating earthquake in As our name suggests, we like big panoramic vistas and encounters that give one a new perspective on life These countries boast a few of these of Himalayan proportions. We have made a name designing journeys that allow our clients to get "under the surface" of a country - to meet the people and get off the tourist route. In designing this itinerary, we have allowed time to meet local people, to walk in rural valleys, and really get to know these beautiful countries, as well as taking in the most important historical, natural and religious sights and highlights that define Bhutan & Nepal.

3 This tour takes in the twin delights of these Himalayan nations; in Nepal you ll experience the very best that this diverse country has to offer and once in Bhutan you ll see the classic highlights of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro. The countries are neighbours but different in culture, religion and society and we ll help you get under the skin a little with time to meet locals and explore the towns. Start in Kathmandu for an insight into the city and maybe a scenic flight to Everest then move on to chilled out lakeside Pokhara. Drive south to Chitwan National Park for an exotic safari before returning to the capital. You ll then fly into Bhutan to visit the quirky capital of Thimphu before heading over the fabulous Dochu Laa pass, to the subtropical valley of Punakha with it's fantastic Dzong, arguably the most beautiful in Bhutan. Join pilgrims at the quirky and colourful Dochu La festival before returning to calm Paro valley where you will have the opportunity to visit unusual monasteries or even try your hand at archery. Your journey in Bhutan culminates with a hike up to the iconic Tigers Nest Monastery perched high above the valley.

4 Sat 2-Dec Arrive in Kathmandu Sun 3-Dec Explore Kathmandu s most iconic sites Mon 4-Dec Fly to Pokhara. Explore Pokhara Tue 5-Dec Sarangkot sunrise views. Continue to Bandipur Wed 6-Dec Morning at leisure and on to Chitwan NP Thu 7-Dec Elephant and Jeep safari in National Park Fri 8-Dec Fly to Kathmandu and stay in medieval Patan Sat 9-Dec Fly to Paro and on to Thimphu Sun 10-Dec Thimphu - museums, markets & monuments Mon 11-Dec Dochu Laa pass & to subtropical Punakha Tue 12-Dec Punakha Dzong & chorten walk Wed 13-Dec Dochu Laa Festival and onto Paro Thu Fri Sat Sun 14-Dec Paro valley walk and sightseeing 15-Dec Tigers Nest Monastery Hike 16-Dec Fly to Kathmandu. At leisure at Dwarikas 17-Dec Depart Kathmandu

5 You will be met by a Panoramic Journeys representative who will be waiting to greet you with a board with your name on. The smells, noises and colours of this fascinating city will be on display during the journey to your hotel where you will have the rest of the day to relax after your flight. Our representative can answer any local questions you have and will let you know what time to meet in the morning. Let us know if you would like to arrange any sightseeing for today. Enjoy a day touring the city taking in the highlights such as Swoyambhunath stupa, Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. You also have the option to take an early morning hour long scenic flight to Everest. What better way to start your Himalayan adventure. Early evening walk down to Thamel House Restaurant with your guide. Travel Details Airport to hotel - 40 mins Accommodation Kantipur Temple House, deluxe room Includes Dinner Travel Details No major travel Accommodation Kantipur Temple House, deluxe room Includes Breakfast

6 Take a 25 minute internal flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara situated on the southern edge of the Annapurna Massif. Nepal s second city is has a laid back atmosphere, a tranquil lake, adventurous activities on tap and spectacular views all round. You ll have time to explore this beautiful area, boating on the lake, visit Davis Falls and the International Mountain Museum. After an early breakfast head up to Sarangkot for the (weather permitting) awesome sunrise vista on a huge sweep of the Himalayas. From Dhaulagiri (8167m) to Machhapuchhare (6997m), unclimbed out of religious respect, and Annapurna II (7937m). Drive on to the Newari settlement of Bandipur where you will stay the night. The village has beautifully preserved 18 th century architecture from its time as a key trading route stop-over. Set high on a ridge with views of snow-capped peaks and terraced fields there is plenty to explore. Travel Details Transfer to airport and 25 mins. flight Accommodation Temple Tree Resort, deluxe room Includes Breakfast Travel Details Pokhara to Bandipur 80km; 2.5 hours Accommodation The Old Inn Bandipur Includes Breakfast, lunch and dinner

7 Get up early (if you wish) to catch the sunrise over mighty Manasalu. After breakfast take the drive south toward the sub-tropical Chitwan National Park. Upon arrival at the lodge, you will be met by one of their representatives to plan various activities for this afternoon and tomorrow, including elephant safari, jeep sarari, river safari, bird wathching and jungle walks and a visit to the local Tharu village. Rise early for a game drive in Nepal s most famous reserves. Home to tiger, rhino, wild elephant, bison, antelope, sloth bear and Gharial crocodile. You will go on safari by elephant (the perfect way to navigate the giant grasses) in the morning and by jeep in the afternoon. When not on a game drive you ll have the opportunity to do a river safari. Travel Details Bandipur to Chitwan 102km; 3.5 hours Accommodation Barahi Jungle Lodge, Chitwan Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Travel Details No long journeys today Accommodation Barahi Jungle Lodge, Chitwan Includes Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

8 Early morning bird watching before breakfast then you will fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Patan. Once an independent city state Patan is now part of the greater Kathmandu area but has its own very distinct feel. The ancient medieval streets wind in and out of squares and courtyard. The rightly famous Durbar Square is home to numerous beautiful temples and place of tranquillity and the many Fairtrade shops give the opportunity to buy gifts and souvenirs knowing that the proceeds are properly distributed. You will need to check-in 2 hrs before departure. The flight from Kathmandu to Paro is spectacular. On arrival in Paro, you will be met by your guide and driver and taken along the national 'highway' to the capital of Thimphu, stopping off at Thamchu Lhakhang on the way. The view over Thimphu from the big Buddha statue helps get our bearings before heading into Thimphu town. Have your first taste of Bhutanese food at one of the capital's restaurants. Later this afternoon head up to Mothitang to see Bhutan's national animal, the rare and elusive Takin. If there is time, for those who wish to stretch their legs, there are great views of the town and Dzong on a lateral hike through the forests (1hr-1.5hr) to Wanguetse and Dechenphodrang monasteries. Travel Details Transfers and 20min flight to KTM Accommodation The Inn, Patan Includes Breakfast Travel Details Paro to Thimphu; 65km, 1 hour Accommodation Namgay Heritage Hotel, Thimphu Includes Breakfast, lunch & dinner

9 After breakfast, a sightseeing tour of Thimphu. Visit the memorial Chorten, which is so important to Thimphu's inhabitants and the Folk Heritage Museum which will give you an insight into how many rural Bhutanese live. A stop at the weekend market is a must. This afternoon, a walk to Cheri or Tango Goempas on the outskirts of town. Alternatively you can stay in town and have time to explore the town further, head back to the market or rest. Discuss within the group and with your guide. This evening dine at one of Thimphu's international restaurants. This morning you will really get a sense of being in the mountains as you ascend to the colourful Dochu Laa pass where you will hopefully see clear views of the snowcapped mountains to the north. Generally the views from the pass are clearer first thing in the morning- so it is best to start as early as possible. Take time to visit the ornate Druk Wangyal Lhakhang (temple) and perhaps a tea break before descending into Punakha valley. As you descend into the subtropical valley of Punakha, you will notice the forest changing in character from pine and evergreen to huge leaved tropical trees. After lunch walk through a small hamlet and paddy fields to a temple on a hill. Round off the day with a riverside walk with views of the Dzong. Travel Details No long drives today Accommodation Namgay Heritage Hotel, Thimphu Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner Travel Details Thimphu to Punakha; 80km, 3 hours Accommodation Meripuensum Resort, Punakha Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner

10 This morning you drive up to the other side of Punakha valley to visit the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal chorten. It's a 45 minute hike up to the chorten over a suspension bridge. Afterwards head back down into the valley for a picnic lunch and visit the spectacular Punakha Dzong - arguably the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan, where you will take time to explore some of the magnificent temples. This morning wrap up warm, as you will head back up to the Dochu Laa pass for the Druk Wangyel Festival. The festival runs until mid-afternoon. Depending on how cold it is and the interest of the group, continue onto Thimphu where you could visit are any sights that you missed on Sunday, because of weekend closures before heading to Paro where you will stay for the next 3 nights. Later this afternoon, time permitting, drive around Punakha valley to the villages of Talo and Nobding. Travel Details No long drives today Accommodation Meripuensum Resort, Punakha Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner Travel Details Punakha to Paro; 129km, 4.5 hours Accommodation Rema Resort, Paro Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner

11 A relaxed day to explore the peaceful Paro valley and town, with a walk through the valley to the Dzong and National Museum. There are lots of interesting temples in Paro valley, but we particularly like Kyichu Lhakhang with it's magic orange tree, and the unusually shaped Dungtse Lhakhang with it's ancient murals. There should be time today for a bit of leisure time - perhaps take a hotstone bath, learn how to play archery, or if it is clear you could head up to Chele Laa pass with your guide - the highest road pass in Bhutan has some great views and there is a short walk to the nunnery, Kila Gompa. The pass is nearly 4000m, so it is not for those feeling the effects of altitude. One of the most sacred of pilgrimages in the Himalayas, this hike is quite tough - but most abilities will be able to cope with it if it is taken at a steady pace. Although those accustomed to the altitude might take 2 hours to climb to the temple, we allow the full day for the excursion and stop regularly, including: for coffee on the way up, and for lunch on the return leg. You will be able to go at your own pace (or hire a pony - ask your guide) and if you prefer to stop at the cafe or view point a little higher up, that is fine. Walking through oak, rhododendrons and trees draped in lychen, it is a rewarding and photogenic hike. If there is time (and you have the energy!) you may like to visit Drukgyal Dzong on the way back to the hotel. Travel Details Paro to Chele Laa pass; 40km, 1.5 hours Accommodation Rema Resort, Paro Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner Travel Details No long drives today Accommodation Rema Resort, Paro Includes Breakfast, lunch, dinner

12 An early start for another spectacular flight over the Himalayas. On arrival back in Kathmandu you have the rest of the day at leisure to relax in the famous Dwarikas Hotel or to explore Kathmandu city. If you would like to arrange guided sightseeing please ask Kath. Transfer to the airport to catch you flight home, 3 hrs before departure. If you want to take the optional Everest scenic flight today, this is also possible, time and weather permitting. This evening you will have a 6-course farewell dinner at the traditional Nepalese Krishnapan restaurant in Dwarikas hotel. It is a great experience, and will round off your trip before your flight home tomorrow. Travel Details No long drives today Accommodation Dwarikas, Kathmandu Includes Breakfast and dinner Travel Details Transfer to airport Accommodation NONE Includes Breakfast

13 The city of Kathmandu, together with the cities of Patan and Bhaktapur make up the Kathmandu Valley. The whole valley is what most refer to as 'Kathmandu' and the three cities, small towns and villages within the valley form the hub of Nepal's traditional culture and arts. Nepal is an ethnically diverse country with almost 30 million inhabitants and 92 spoken languages and you will see evidence of this in Kathmandu. It is a place of temples and shrines where worship is a part of daily life for both Buddhists and Hindus who have resided side by side within Nepal for centuries. At the heart of each city is the Durbar Square (Durbar means 'palace') and it was from the Royal Palace on each square that the kings of Nepal once ruled. The medieval city core of Kathmandu, is often considered to be among the most beautiful urban locations in the world. (Please let us know if you would like to add more days in Nepal).

14 Nepal's second largest city is situated within a circular valley, surrounded by towering peaks and stunning lakes. It is sometimes known as the city for adventure as it is the starting point to many major treks. Three out of the ten highest mountains in the world - Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I and Manaslu - are located within 50km, resulting in a breathtaking northern skyline. This scene is brilliantly reflected by three neighbouring tranquil lakes - Phewa, Begna and Rupa. The lakes are located about 15km away from Pokhara and are divided by a forested hillock called Panchabhaiya Danda. The city is part of a once vibrant trade route extending between India and Tibet, making it a great place to stock up on any gifts or artifacts..

15 The Chitwan National Park is spread over an area of 932 sq km, covering Sal forests, tall elephant grasslands, hills, oxbox lakes and the flood plain of the Narayani, Rapti and Reu river. Chitwan literally means 'heart of the jungle' and the park is in a rich natural area in the Terai, the subtropical southern part of Nepal. A total of 68 species of mammals, 519 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles and amphibians as well as 126 species of fish have been recorded in the park. The park is renowned for its protection of the One Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger and Gharial Crocodile and in 1984 became a UNESCO World Heritage Site..

16 Paro, sits at the confluence of the attractive Paro-chu and Do-chu valleys a short distance from Bhutan s only international airport. The main street of this charming town is lined with colourfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants. The town is an excellent place to explore on foot and is worth an hour or two stroll, if time allows.. Only a few kilometres from the runway, you get a taste of many aspects of Bhutan and her people. Beside the road, farmers plant crops, a water wheel turns a prayer wheel that rings a bell; oxon plough fields and children walk to school.

17 Thimphu, this small city was established as the capital in The juxtaposition of old and new is one of its appealing qualities; robed monks texting on their mobile phones, college students in traditional dress with the latest trainers and hairstyles; even the beautifully hand painted petrol station! Famous for being the only capital in the world without traffic lights, 2008 saw many new structures built including the stadium which held the King s coronation. Best explored on foot, decorated shop fronts and intriguing 'grocery-cum-bar' signs reveal friendly shopkeepers and a surprising array of goods.. Takin, often known as a 'goat-antelope' the takin is found in the Eastern Himalayas above 2,000m. In Bhutan they can be found in the Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Park, but you would be extremely lucky to see one in the wild. This unique animal is strongly associated with Bhutan's religious history and is the national animal of Bhutan. Visit the Mothithang Takin Reserve to learn about these mystical creatures and the legend of how they came to be.

18 National Memorial Chorten, Bhutan's third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, but died before his plan came to fruition. However, the Royal Family and Cabinet resolved to fulfil his wishes and erect a memorial that would perpetuate his memory and also serve as a monument to peace.. Folk Heritage Museum, this is one of the oldest houses in Thimphu and as you look out of the windows from the top floor you can really imagine what Thimphu must have been like a century ago - just another rural valley with a small cluster of farmhouses. This traditionally built mud and timber farm house complete with its objects and implements from traditional Bhutanese life, provide an insight into how many rural Bhutanese still live today and give you a chance to have a proper look, before you visit a real family home. National Institute for Zorig Chusum There are 13 traditional arts of Bhutan, which can be grouped under one heading, Zorig chusum 'the 13 arts'. These are - painting, carpentry, carving, sculpture, casting, blacksmith, bamboo and cane craft, gold smithing & silver smithing, weaving, embroidery, masonry, leather works and paper making. Bhutanese art is religious and anonymous. The artist does not work to make a work of art, but a work of faith which will gain merit for the patron who commissioned the piece. There is a National Institute for Zorig Chusum and private schools that offer courses for artistic students.

19 Druk Wangyel Lhakhang, the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang was built over a period of four years ( ) under the vision and patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo. The Lhakhang honours the courageous service of the armed forces and the Fourth King, who personally led the troops against the insurgents.. Dochu Laa (3,140m), on fine days this pass has spectacular views of the snow capped Himalayas to the North. An impressive collection of 108 stupas and the more recently built temple, make this a very photogenic spot. One of the 4 th King's four wives initiated their construction to commemorate Bhutan's victory over North East Indian separatists in the South in This pass is a botanists dream, home to 16 species of Bhutanese Rhododendrons and other species such as Primula, Lauraceae such as Litsea, Cinnamomum, Neolitsea, Oaks, Virburnum, Magnolia, Daphne, Arisaema, Gentian, Himalayan Acer, and many others.

20 Punakha, was the winter capital of Bhutan for over 300 years before it was moved to Thimphu. Despite its historical significance, the first King of Bhutan was crowned in Punakha Dzong in Punakha is now a small village and most of the land in Punakha valley is used for cultivation..

21 Punakha Dzong (1,250m), has been damaged by fires, floods and earthquake over the centuries, but the Dzong has recently been fully restored to its original glory. The murals depicting the life of Buddha in the assembly hall are impressive - one of our clients recently likened the hall to the Sistine Chapel.. Chimi Lhakhang, this temple was built in honour of Lama Drukpa Kunley - the "Divine Madman". Childless couples travel from around the world to be blessed here by one of the wooden effigies of the "Erotic Lama" penis! Some take their children back to the temple to be named or send back photographs of the children that they have conceived since the blessing. Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten (Chorten Walk), The three-storey chorten was built by Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon in 1999 for the protection of the country. The views of Punakha valley from the top of the chorten are spectacular. Even though you are not allowed to take photos inside, it is worth keeping your camera for the views from the top.

22 Paro Dzong, otherwise known as the 'fortress of the heap of jewels', the Dzong is guarded by a Mongol holding a tiger on a leash, a fact we at Panoramic Journeys like especially! Look out for the superb woodwork on the central tower, the painting of the four friends (bird, rabbit, monkey and elephant) and the impressive cosmic mandalas.. The National Museum, housed in Paro Dzong's ancient watch tower, this museum gives a delightful introduction to Bhutan's history. Artefacts ranging from costumes, armour, masks and stamps to stuffed animals and musical instruments which are all housed in the spiral building. Although you can't take photos inside the museum, you may wish to keep your camera with you for the amazing views over Paro valley as you exit. Kyichu Lhakhang. Legend has it that the first temple at Kyichu was built in the 7 th century. A giant demoness was said to be attempting to prevent the spread of Buddhism by laying across the Himalayas. The Buddhist Tibetan King decided to build 108 temples across her body to subdue her. Lhasa was built above her heart and Kyichu Lhakhang was built on her left foot. In the 8 th century the temple was visited by Guru Rinpoche and it is believed he concealed many spiritual treasures here.

23 Chele Laa pass used to be on the main route from North western India to Bhutan and is well documented in travellers accounts. If the weather is clear there are amazing views from the pass to Mt Jomolhari and Jichu Drakye in Bhutan and Mt Kanchenchunga in Sikkim. Chele Laa is one of the richest sites for Bhutanese flora and birdlife. Many species of Primula, Rhododendron, Iris, Lily, Gentian as well as four species of Himalayan poppies are found here.. Drukgyal Dzong. These ruins are situated 15km north of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1649 to protect the country against threatening Tibetans and is the best example of a fortified Dzong built in the 17 th century. Unfortunately a fire in 1951 destroyed the Dzong but it still shows unique and intriguing design and construction techniques including a false entry to lure invaders into an enclosed courtyard, which along with other tactics, helped the Bhutanese protect their country successfully through the 17 th century.

24 Taktsang Monastery (3,200m), an iconic landmark and national treasure, Taktsang ( The Tiger s Nest ) is perched spectacularly on a rocky ledge above Paro valley. Its foundation was laid in the 8 th century when 2 nd Buddha, Guru Padma Sambhava, flew to the site on the back of a tigress and meditated here for 3 months, 3 days and 3 hours in order to subdue the evil demons residing within the cave.. Taktsang Monastery hike, one of the most sacred of pilgrimages in the Himalayas, this hike can be tough - but most abilities will be able to cope if it is taken at a steady pace. Although those accustomed to the altitude might take 2 hours to climb to the temple, allow a full day for the excursion and stop regularly including for coffee on the way up and for lunch on the return leg. You will be able to go at your own pace and if you prefer to stop at the cafe or view point a little higher up, that is fine. Walking through oak, rhododendrons and trees draped in lychen, it is a rewarding and photogenic hike.

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26 This hotel, built in old Newari temple-style, is an oasis of calm, on the edge of the old town, less than ten minutes walk to the hustle and bustle of Thamel and Durbar square. The friendly staff are happy to help with suggestions for eating out, or the restaurant in the hotel also comes recommended. The owner of the hotel is environmentally aware - the food is organic, guests are given cloth bags to use when shopping, and bulk mineral water is available free of charge, so you don't need to buy unrecyclable plastic bottles.

27 The Barahi Jungle Lodge, set on the banks of the East Rapti River offers luxurious, yet low key bungalow accommodation with views of the Rapti River, grassland and jungle beyond. A wide range of wildlife activities are conducted by a team of hand-picked naturalist guides who are experts on the various habitats in the Chitwan National Park. There is a large pool and decked terrace overlooking the river, an extensive Spa with Ayurvedic treatments. The lodge s restaurant serves a wide range of Asian and Western cuisine, created to a high standard using organically grown local produce wherever possible.

28 We select the hotels that we consider to be the most comfortable and characterful from old palaces, to converted farmhouses, and more modern hotels in great locations. Some rooms have fireplaces, others balconies, or a fantastic location - and 99% are ensuite. In places where there is limited accommodation such as the Phobjikha and Haa valleys and further east, the hotels may be a bit more basic, perhaps with hot water provided in bowls or harder beds! Accommodation bookings can change at the last minute in Bhutan, so you should be prepared for a possible change to the itinerary.

29 We select the hotels that we consider to be the most comfortable and characterful. The Dwarikas ticks both of these boxes. This heritage hotel was built using exquisitely carved wooden beams and frames from the houses of old Kathmandu that would have been used for firewood. Each of the rooms has its own character and individuality. There are 16th century windows in many, while there are private courtyards attached to others. You will find all the amenities of a luxury hotel complemented with fabrics and furniture custom designed from traditional patterns.

30 Ray & Lesley Fletcher 2016 Helen and Bob Conway 2011 Cynny Sharp 2013 Louise Fournier 2008

31 Price Includes: Accommodation (based on 2 sharing*) Meals as per itinerary Mineral water during days out Bhutanese visa, permits & government royalties Activities as per itinerary (optional Everest scenic flight payable locally) English speaking guide(s) Druk Air return flights KTM-PAROKTM Private surface transportation (vehicle and driver) Park & museum entrance fees Domestic Flights in Nepal Airport transfers Price Excludes: Travel Insurance Passport Vaccination charges Private excursions Bar bills Laundry Telephone calls & items of a personal nature International flights to KTM Single supplement $ 875 Deposit $1,500 per person (plus any extras) Full payment is due if departure is in less than 90 days PANORAMIC JOURNEYS Ltd., Granary Barn, Chapel Road, Chadlington, OX7 3NX, England info@panoramicjourneys.com - Tel. +44 (0)