Himalayan Mountain Kingdoms

There is mystery and magic in the Himalaya, in the eerie 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 ancient temples. We experience this extraordinary world in three Himalayan lands, discovering Tibet through the immense power of places like Samye Monastery, exploring Nepal, whose ancient past lingers on in the temple-filled streets and vibrant bazaars of Kathmandu, and savoring the flourishing kingdom of Bhutan, where we witness a traditional festival and hike to the famous cliffside hermitage of Taktsang. Throughout, we encounter an array of Himalayan peoples, from nomads to lamas, and relish some of the most majestic mountain scenery on earth.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-5
Lhasa, Tibet / Yarlung Valley / Samye (Paro Festival Departure)

Our journey begins in Lhasa, Tibet’s sacred city, where we explore the massive Potala Palace, then join pilgrims who gather at the candle-lit altars at Tibet’s most sacred temple, the Jokhang. Heading out of Lhasa, we explore the imposing Ganden Monastery for a chance to walk the kora along with groups of Tibetan pilgrims who perform various religious rituals to earn spiritual merit. In the remote Yarlung Valley, 7th century birthplace of the first kings of Tibet, we visit the spectacular 8th century Samye Monastery, an architectural showplace whose remarkable wall paintings offer a rare glimpse of the original artistry of the master mural painters who once flourished in Tibet.

Days 6-8
Kathmandu, Nepal

In Kathmandu, we discover an ancient city where Hindu and Buddhist worlds intertwine. Small 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 Bodhnath, where monasteries encircle a massive stupa painted with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha.

Days 9-15
Paro, Bhutan / Punakha / Thimphu / Paro

Gold-roofed monasteries, emerald valleys, deep, rustling forests—Bhutan’s landscape is so enchanting it seems taken from the pages of a storybook. In this tiny kingdom, the presence of Tibetan Buddhism is everywhere, 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 renew their faith in a traditional celebration of community. We also hike up to the famous hermitage of Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest.” Journeying across the 10,200-foot Dochu La Pass, we head to the peaceful Punakha Valley, Bhutan’s winter capital for 300 years, for hikes to hillside chortens (shrines). The stunning and labyrinthine Punakha Dzong, seat of the head abbot of Bhutan, sits at the spectacular confluence of the Mo Chu and Po Chu (the Mother and Father rivers). We also explore charming Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. We depart via Paro on Day 15.

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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