Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centres. However, it still retains its’ cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization. There are several attractions in Thimphu such as the National Post Office, the Clock Tower Square, the Motithang Takin Preserve, Tango and Chari Monasteries, Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmer's Market, Semtokha Dzong to name a few. These form the most important tourist attractions in the capital city.
Punakha Dzong was built at the confluence of two major rivers in Bhutan, the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu, which converge in this valley. It is an especially beautiful sight on sunny days with sunlight reflecting off the water onto its white-washed walls. In addition to its structural beauty, Punakha Dzong is notable for containing the preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan as well as a sacred relic known as the Ranjung Karsapani. This relic is a self-created image of Avalokiteswara that miraculously emerged from the vertebrae of Tsangpa Gyarey, the founder of the Drukpa School when he was cremated.
Accentuating the natural beauty are the elegant, traditional-style houses that dot the valley and surrounding hills. One of the distinctive features of Paro town is that it is situated in a flat valley bottom and follows a grid-like pattern. The central plaza is adorned with a large prayer wheel and a small amphitheater where events are held throughout the year. There are over 155 temples and monasteries in the area, some dating as far back as the 14th?century. The country’s first and only international airport is also located in the region. Its close proximity to the historical and religious sites in the region has resulted in the development of an array of luxurious, high-end tourist resorts making Paro one of the main destination for visitors.
Kathmandu, the remarkable capital of Nepal, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It boosts everything from ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples to spice markets bound to have you sneezing or buying exotic products by the kilo. It’s a hectic, busy and loud city, and there’s a good chance you will either fall in love with Kathmandu, or you’ll just want to escape to the Garden of Dreams. With so many incredible tourist places in Kathmandu you could never be bored here, and when you travel to Nepal you should ensure you spend at least a few days here.
(Distance: 65 kms. / Driving Time: 2 hrs. / Altitude of Thimphu: 2350 mts.)
Meet & Greet on arrival at Paro Airport and transfer to Thimphu (7,710 ft.) the capital city of Bhutan. On arrival check in at the hotel. Evening explore the Thimphu town by walk. Overnight stay at Thimphu.
After breakfast visit Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Statue) a place for refreshing with a huge statue of Buddha on the top of the Kuensel Phodrang, National Memorial Chorten (Monument) & Folk Heritage Museum. Afternoon visit Sangaygang View Point, Changangkha Monastery, Takin Preserve Centre, the national animal of Bhutan can be seen here, Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion). Overnight stay at Thimphu.
(Distance: 76 km (One Way). / Driving Time: 3 hrs. / Altitude of Punakha: 1310 mts.)
After breakfast start an excursion to Punakha (4298 ft.) / Wangdue, On the way Stop at Dochu-La-Pass (3150 mts.) to view the higher Himalayas, visit Punakha Dzong - built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. After that take a short and easy hike to visit the Chhimi Lhakhang - The Temple, also known as “The Temple of Fertility” was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”. Evening back to Thimpu. Overnight stay at Thimpu.
(Distance: 65 kms. / Driving Time: 2 hrs. / Altitude of Paro: 2280 mts.)
After breakfast transfer to Paro( 7483 ft.). On the way visit the Tamchog Lhakhang – It is situated between Thimphu and Paro and it was built in the 13th century by Thangthong Gyalpo. He is also known as the Iron bridge builder. Situated on a hill top, we have to cross an ancient style bridge to reach the temple. On arrival in Paro, check in at the hotel. Afternoon visit Ta Dzong - National Museum with an excellent collection of arts, relics, religious thangkha, etc. Rinpung Dzong - Meaning "fortress of the heap of jewels". The dzong now serves as the administrative and judicial seat of Paro. Overnight stay at Paro.
After breakfast hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery - called “Tiger’s Nest” (2hrs hike from the base camp). Later visit Drukgyel Dzong & Kyichu Monastery. Overnight stay at Paro.
After breakfast check out from hotel and drop at Paro Airport for your onward journey to Kathmandu.
Meet and greet assistance upon arrival Kathmandu international airport. Later, transfer to the hotel. After a short break proceed for the half day city tour of Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple, renowned for its superb architecture, its two storied golden roof and silver doors is about 5 km from Kathmandu. Thousands of devotees converge here every day, but specially on an annual pilgrimage on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, the night of Lord Shiva, in the month February. Entrance into the temple-precincts is permitted only for the Hindus but other can clearly see the temple and ritual performance from the eastern bank of the Bagmati, where people cremate the dead.
Swayambhunath, this is one of the world's most glorious Buddhist Stupa dating back around 2000 years. The Stupa, which forms the main structure, is made of brick and clay supporting the lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four-sides of the spire base are the eyes of Lord Buddha. It is three kilometres west of Kathmandu City, and is situated on a hillock about 77m above the level of the Valley. This hill is a mosaic of small Chaityas and pagodas. Swayambhunath is, perhaps, the best place to observe the religious harmony of Buddhist and Hindu, in Nepal. It provides an excellent view of the Kathmandu Valley. This is the one of the UNESCO cultural heritage sites of Nepal.
Post visit, return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Today explore the beautiful sights of Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Durbar Square, with its old temples and places, epitomizes the religious and cultural life of the people. It is the historic seat of royalty. It is here that Kings of Nepal were crowned and their coronations solemnized. Interesting things to see here are; Taleju Temple built by King Mahendra Malla in 1549 A.D., Kal Bhairav, the statue of King Pratap Malla, the Big Bell, Big Drum etc. On the right-hand corner, large wooden lattice screen hides an enormous gilded face of Swet Bhairav. The screen is removed only during the Indra Jatra festival. The temple or the residence of Living goddess, Kumari, is situated in the vicinity of Hanumandhoka Palace. The building has profusely carved wooden balconies and window screens. The Kumari-the living Goddess, acknowledges the greetings from her balcony window.
Patan Durbar Square This whole square is a cluster of fine pagoda temples and stone statues; it is at the same time the business hub of the city. At every step one comes across a piece of art or an image of a deity, testifying to the consummate skill of Patan's anonymous artists. The ancient palace of the Malla kings and the stone baths associated with various legends and episodes of history are especially interesting to visitors. The stone temple of Lord Krishna and the Royal Bath (Tushahity) with its intricate stone and bronze carvings are two other masterpieces in the same vicinity.
Boudhnath Situated 7kms northwest of Kathmandu city, the stupa of Boudhanath contains the relics of Kashyap Buddha, one of the former Buddha’s. The stupa was much later renovated by the Lichchhavi rulers of the 8th century A.D. Boudhanath is a very important and holy stupa to Buddhists, particularly to the Tibetan Buddhists. The lotus-born Guru, Guru Padmashambava had revealed its greatness and importance to the Tibetan King Trisondetsen (742-797 A.D.)
Post visit, return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Later, proceed for the day tour of exploring the
Bhaktapur Square, situated about 14 Km east Kathmandu city was founded in 9th Century by King Anand Dev. This “City of Devotees” is renowned for its pottery and weaving industry. Bhaktapur, also known as Bhadgaon, is a home of medieval art and architecture. The main square of the city contains innumerable temples and other architectural showpieces such as lion gate, the golden gate, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla, palace of 55 window, the big bell, the bell of barking dogs, Nyatapola Temple etc.
Changu Narayan Temple, is built on top of a high hill to the east of Kathmandu and north of Bhaktapur cities. This temple is the most celebrated Vaishnava shrine in the Kathmandu valley. Its origin dates back to the fourth century, but the earliest inscription on a stone pillar belongs to the ruler of Licchavi dynasty Manadev who ruled at the end of the fifth and early sixth century. The Central image in the sanctum is worshipped by Hindus as a god Garuda Narayan, and by Buddhists as a deity Harihara Bahan Lokeshwara. The temple has been restored during the late 1500-s and devastated by fire in 1702, but was then restored. Although the present temple is not one of the oldest in the Kathmandu valley, some of its decorative ornaments are extremely old.
Evening sunset Nagarkot, is a hilltop village located 32 km east of Kathmandu Valley passing the Bhaktapur City and at an elevation of 2195m high above the sea level. It is considered one of the most scenic view points in near the Kathmandu. It is renowned for its Sunrise and Sunset View of the Himalayas including Mount Everest, Lang tang Range, Ganesh Himal, Ghaurisankar, Rolwaling Himal as well as other snow-capped Himalayan Range of eastern Nepal.
Post visit, return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Breakfast at the hotel, later in time transfer to the airport to board your onward journey flight.
Choose Le Méridien Thimphu for an unforgettable experience. Located at the heart of Bhutan's capital city, we are just steps away from shops and entertainment, and conveniently accessible to Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong and other celebrated attractions. Our 78 elegant guest rooms and suites boast authentic Bhutanese-style furnishings and stellar amenities like flat-screen TV, free high speed wi-fi, marble bathroom, an ergonomic workspace and uncompromising views of the local hillsides and the capital city .Be inspired and energised by the global flavours and creative presentations of our carefully curated fare at Latest Recipe, Sese Shamu, the only Pan Asian restaurant in Thimphu and Latitude 27.
Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is the perfect destination which offers life time opportunity to live and experience the country’s exotic culture and natural beauty with a mix of luxury and comfort. Located 10 minutes from Paro International Airport, Le Meridien Paro, Riverfront is situated on the edge of the Paro River, offering panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.The timeless art of leisure can be freely pursued with amenities that include Explore Spa and an indoor heated pool, as well as a Fitness Center. Our two restaurants, Bamboo Chic and Latest Recipe and Latitude bar offers a diners an exquisite sensorial experience. The hotel also caters to international business travelers, with 612 square meters of meeting space. Our 59 guest rooms, including seven suites, are chic retreats designed with the curious traveler in mind. Each offers striking Himalayan Valley and Paro River views, as well as our signature LM BED and separate soaking bathtub.
Conveniently located at the heart of the capital, Kathmandu, Hotel Shangri-La is a great base from which to explore this vibrant city. The airport is merely 7 kilometers away from the Hotel which is adjacent to diplomatic consulates and offers every guest a private getaway in a bustling city. At Hotel Shangri-La, the traditional touch in the hotel’s interiors fusion with state of the art facilities never fail to make our guests stay worthwhile. Further complemented by other prominent features of the hotel include 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all public areas, 24-hour security, wheelchair accessible, daily housekeeping service. Whatever your reason for visiting Kathmandu, Hotel Shangri-La is the perfect venue for an exhilarating and exciting break away.
Consistently voted the happiest country in the world, the little nation of Bhutan is set at the far eastern end of the Himalayas, between India and China. Bhutan only began to open its doors to outsiders in the 1970s, and still has a strict sustainability policy in place with respect to tourism. As a result it has retained a deep cultural authenticity and has preserved its environment admirably, making it one of Asia’s most beguiling and unforgettable destinations. Highlights include incredible forts and temples perched on sheer mountain cliffs, a rich (predominantly Buddhist) culture, and spectacular scenery – ranging from temperate sub-tropical plains and valleys cloaked with dense forest, to lofty sub-Alpine mountains capped with snow.
Tucked away in the Himalayan Mountains, this enchanting nation’s natural landscape is dominated by eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. In addition to the numerous ambitious climbers who flock here to face the challenge of climbing this majestic peak, Nepal attracts large numbers of eco-tourists eager to experience this intriguing country’s virtually untouched natural wonders including lush subtropical forests home to a range of exotic wildlife. Nepal’s cultural landscape is just as diverse as its natural one, playing host to an array of distinct ethnic groups. Other popular tourist highlights include: the capital city of Kathmandu with its exquisite temples and palaces; the sheer magnificence of Patan’s Golden Temple; Chitwan National Park, for its impressive scenery; and, of course, Bodnath, the nation’s most sacred Buddhist monument.
BANKING AND CURRENCY
The unit of the Nepalese Currency is Rupee. One Nepali Rupee is made up of 100 paisa. Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000. Coins come in paisa 5,10,25,50 Rs. 1 , 2, 5 denominations. Paisa coins are not currently used for common transactions. Foreign currency and travellers cheques can easily be exchanged at banks or authorized agents. In Kathmandu banks have money exchange counters, which are quick and convenient. Nepal has modern banking facilities and some international banks even have offices in Kathmandu. Almost all foreign currencies along with credit cards such as American Express, Visa, and Master card are accepted in Nepal. All visitors are required to exchange their money through the bank or authorized agents. In Kathmandu banks with money exchange counters are found everywhere and most hotels also have exchange counters. These facilities to change money are quick and convenient. It is necessary to ask for receipts when money is changed.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in Nepal are one of two types: the "Type D" Indian 5 amp BS-546 or the European CEE 7/16 Europlug. The Indian socket is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for both types.
