14 Days Himalayan Adventure - India & Bhutan
Price from NZD 7567 / AUD 6810 per person on twin sharing basis
Flights (Kolkata-Bagdogra + Paro-Kolkata) from NZD 959 / AUD 863 per person
Kolkata - Darjeeling – Kalimpong – Gangtok – Phuntsholing – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro - Kolkata
This trip takes you to mountainous east India, visiting the origin of the world’s best Tea – Darjeeling, with its panoramic views of the Himalayas, tea gardens, Buddhist monasteries and colonial past. Continue on and visit arguably the most beautiful Indian state of Sikkim and the Land of the Dragon – mystical Bhutan. See Tibetan and Buddhist Monasteries with amazing architecture, get close to a raw and rustic Bhutan, which is still to open its doors to globalization, where people are humble and yet so proud of their heritage.
Day 1: Kolkata
Arrive at Kolkata airport and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2: Kolkata (B)
Full day city tour of Kolkata visiting the India Museum, built in Italian architectural style, Howrah Bridge, one of the three bridges on River Hooghly and a famous state landmark, Victoria Memorial, modelled on the Taj Mahal, and St Paul's Cathedral.
Day 3: Kolkata – Bagdogra - Darjeeling (B/D)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bagdogra. Transfer to Darjeeling and check in at your hotel.
Day 4: Darjeeling (B/D)
With a backdrop of the mighty Himalayan peaks, Darjeeling is famous for its tea. You will go for a full day sightseeing tour which will include a visit to Ghoom Monastery and its magnificent statue of Maitreya, “the future Buddha” draped in white silk scarves. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre where you can see Tibetan craftsmen making traditional items.
Day 5: Darjeeling – Kalimpong (B/D)
Today drive to Kalimpong known for its flowers and nurseries. Visit TharpaCholing Monastery, belonging to the Gelugpa sect.
Day 6: Kalimpong - Gangtok (B/D)
Drive to Gangtok which is frequently dotted with stupas and monasteries. Visit the Do-drul Chorten Stupa, which contains rare Mandalas, Enchey Monastery, blessed by the great Tantric master Lama DruptabKarpa, known for his flying powers. Lastly, visit the Research Institute of Tibetology, centre for promoting and keeping alive the traditional arts and crafts of the region.
Day 7: Gangtok (B/D)
Today you will visit Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Kagyupa, and one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects. The centre houses some of the world’s most unique religious scriptures and objects. Later visit Tashi, which offers an enchanting view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu.
Day 8: Gangtok - Phuntsholing (B/L/D)
Morning drive to Bhutan’s border town of Phuntsholing passing through lush green tea gardens. You will cross the border and visit ZangthoPelri Lhakhang, the temple representing heaven of Guru Rinpoche followed by a stroll around the local market.
Day 9: Phuntsholing - Thimphu (B/L/D)
Take a scenic drive to Thimphu, the modern capital, enroute visiting KharbandiGoemba, a beautiful monastery. Visit SimtkhaDzong, the oldest fortress of the Kingdom which now houses the school for Buddhist studies.
Day 10: Thimphu (B/L/D)
Today you will do the City tour of Thimphu and will visit Trashichhodzong, the ‘fortress of the glorious religion’, Memorial Chorten, National Library, Art School, the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum and Government Handicrafts Emporium.
Day 11: Thimphu – Paro (B/L/D)
Drive to Paro Valley, which showcases a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundreds of myths and legends. Visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum and RinpungDzong which has a long, fascinating history.
Day 12: Paro (B/L/D)
Morning visit to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest). Later in afternoon visit Durkgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress followed by a visit to a traditional farmhouse which offers a good insight into local life.
Day 13: Paro - Kolkata (B)
Transfer to Paro Airport to board flight for Kolkata. Arrive at Kolkata airport and transfer to your hotel.
Day 14: Kolkata (B)
Transfer to Kolkata, Airport for your onward flight. Depart or extend stay in India by choosing various add on tours we offer.
Included: Accommodation for 13 nights, meals as per itinerary, transfers, sightseeing as indicated, local English speaking guides, entrances and the Bhutan Visa fee
Departs: Daily
Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2024. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.