Himalayan Mountain Kingdoms

There is mystery and magic in the Himalaya, in the resonant chanting of maroon-robed monks in brightly painted monasteries, in the snow plumes trailing from high peaks, and in the smiles of Buddhist pilgrims at their ancient temples. We enter this world by exploring three exotic Himalayan lands, experiencing Tibet through the immense power of places like Samye Monastery, the flourishing kingdom of Bhutan, where we hike up to the hermitage of Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest” and witness a traditional festival with mask dances, and Nepal, where the ancient past lingers on in the temple-filled streets and vibrant bazaars of Kathmandu. Throughout, we encounter an array of peoples from nomads to lamas, and revel in the most majestic mountain scenery on earth.

Itinerary at a Glance

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Days 1-5
Lhasa, Tibet / Yarlung Valley / Samye

(March Paro Festival Departure) We explore Lhasa’s massive 1,000-room Potala Palace, join pilgrims who gather at the candle-lit altars at Tibet’s most sacred temple, the Jokhang, and walk the Barkhor pilgrimage circuit. We also visit some of the small temples hidden in Lhasa’s back streets that other travelers rarely visit. Beyond Lhasa, we explore the imposing Ganden Monastery, with its vast complex of temples, and follow the kora along with groups of Tibetan pilgrims who perform various religious rituals to earn spiritual merit. Heading to the remote Yarlung Valley, 7th century birthplace of the first kings of Tibet, we visit the spectacular 8th century Samye Monastery, an architectural showplace with its 108 chapels built into a great circular stone wall. Samye’s remarkable wall paintings offer a rare glimpse of the original artistry of the master mural painters who once flourished in Tibet.

Days 6-7
Kathmandu, Nepal

In Kathmandu, we discover an ancient city where Hindu and Buddhist worlds intertwine. Golden shrines are adorned with garlands of marigolds, beautifully carved wooden windows and doorways overlook narrow alleys, and the scent of exotic spices fills the air. Temples abound, and we explore such fascinating sites as the thriving Buddhist center at Boudha, Swayambu, with its commanding views of the valley, and the riverside cremation ghats and Hindu temples of Pashupatinath.

Days 8-14
Paro, Bhutan / Thimphu / Punakha / Paro

The presence of Tibetan Buddhism is everywhere in Bhutan, from fluttering prayer flags dotting the countryside to exquisite hilltop lhakhangs (temples). In Paro, we attend the spectacular Tsechu Festival, an occasion when Bhutanese dress in their finery and express their faith in a traditional celebration of community. The festival’s sacred masked dances are wonderfully photogenic, performed both by costumed monks and laymen in monastery courtyards under the brilliant blue sky. We also hike up to the famous hermitage of Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest.” Journeying by vehicle across the 10,200-foot Dochu La Pass, we head to the peaceful Punakha Valley for hikes to hillside chortens (shrines) and to view the stunning and labyrinthine Punakha Dzong, set at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Po Chu (the Mother and Father rivers). In charming Thimphu, the capital, we visit the Arts and Crafts School, where children are trained in traditional Bhutanese painting, sculpture, and woodcarving, and the Folk Heritage Museum. We depart via Paro on Day 14.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

Optional Extensions

If you would like to continue your adventure, we offer the following extension:

• Scenic Everest Flight (1 days)

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 2+, easy to moderate. It features vehicle-based sightseeing with day walks and hotel/lodge accommodations throughout. Our optional day hikes take place at altitudes of 4,000-13,000 feet. All hiking is with a daypack only, and you always have the option to skip any hike you don’t want to undertake. This trip is appropriate for anyone in good health living an active outdoor lifestyle. Although you carry only a daypack on the walks, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Daily brisk walking and/or regular hiking (or using a stair-climbing machine at your gym) are excellent preparatory exercises. You should wear sturdy, well-broken-in footwear. Accommodations in Tibet and Bhutan range from rustic to deluxe. The Zhiwa Ling Hotel in Paro, the Taj Tashi in Thimphu, and the Yak & Yeti in Kathmandu are deluxe and offer a great deal of comfort, while the lodge in Punakha and the hotels in Lhasa and Tsetang are well situated and cozy but somewhat rustic.

Explanation of Trip Levels