India, Nepal, Bhutan & Tibet Experience Tours

EXCELLENCE IN TRAVEL

indianepal,bhutan & tibet

IncaTailor-madeTravelIndividual Tailor-made Tour

Packages, Safaris,Treks &

Small Group Departures

Over

30 years

Experie

nce

INCA TOURS~EXCELLENCE INTRAVEL

CONTENTS

2

CONTENTS Page

The Highlights 3

Why Inca Tours? 4

Your Travel Options 6

Longer Duration Tours Days

India, Nepal& Tibet 21 8

India South to North 28 12

Nepal, Tibet& Bhutan 14 15

Gods&Golden Triangle 12 18

Rajasthan Heritage 14 20

South India Cultural 14 22

Himalayas& the North 14 28

Shorter Tours & Safaris

India

South India Highlights 9 24

Wildlife& Temples 8 26

The Golden Temple 5 30

Shimla& the Himalayas 7 31

Kolkata& Darjeeling 8 32

Exotic Goa 5 33

Nepal

The Best of Nepal 12 34

Nepal Highlights 9 36

Nepal Express 6 38

Bhutan

The Best of Bhutan 11 40

Bhutan Cultures 8 42

Bhutan Express 5 44

Tibet

The Best of Tibet 10 45

Tibet Highlights 5 47

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Cultural 7 48

Southern Sri Lanka 8 49

Treks

The Royal Trek 9 50

Annapurna Region Trek 14 52

Everest Base Camp Trek 15 54

INCA TOURS HAS OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE ORGANISING SMALL GROUP

TOURS TO VARIOUS DESTINATIONS. JUST IMAGINE WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU!

religious festival, the ganges river

tiger, india

tiger fest

ival

taj hotel foyer

the taj mahal, agra

welcome to indianepal bhutan tibet


THE HIGHLIGHTS

3

The Real Indian SubcontinentIndia, Nepal, Bhutan& Tibet are culturally rich and exotic places—from India’s often arid “Golden Triangle” in Rajasthan, with itsmajestic palaces in the West, to the lush backwaters of Kerala in theSouth; from its monsoon forests, home to the elusive Tiger in theEast to the temples of the North. Majestic mountains and tropicalseas, red deserts and sacred rivers, old customs and new ways,modern cities and traditional crafts, they all call the region home!

Once connected to Africa, India drifted north and collided with Asiaand threw up the mighty Himalayas. Here we find the landlockednation of Nepal, bordering China to the north and India to thesouth, east and west. Nepal has a rich geography, with its northhome to eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, includingEverest. Bhutan is also small and landlocked. It is located at theeastern end of the Himalayas and bordered to the south, east andwest by India and to the north by China. Its landscape ranges fromsubtropical plains in the south to the sub-alpine Himalayas in thenorth. Tibet is a plateau, north-east of the Himalayas. It is also thehighest region on earth, with an average elevation of 4,900 metres!

This is definitely a part of the world which conjures up images ofthe exotic, from people and food to palaces and temples, yet India,Nepal, Bhutan& Tibet are excellent value destinations. Why wait!

The Highlights of the Region

The Golden TriangleThis is India’s most famous part, made up of the area between Agra,Udaipur and Jaisalmer. It contains one of the “New Seven Wondersof the World”, the Taj Mahal! Other highlights in Udaipur are LakePichhola, with the Lake Palace located in its middle. There is also themagnificent Palace of Winds in Jaipur, the “Pink City”; Jodhpur,the “Blue City”; and Jaisalmer, overlooked by its12th Century fort.

The South & West CoastFrom Mumbai (“Bombay”) in the Northwest to Chennai (“Madras”)in the Southeast and taking in the main cities of Bangalore, Cochinand Madurai, this is the tropical heartland of India. This region hasit all, from the wildlife in Periyar National Park, numerous culturalexperiences, the comfort of a backwaters cruise on a houseboat, thebustle of Mumbai to the exotic beaches of Goa. If you are lookingfor a diverse and fulfilling journey, through an area renowned for itswealth, culture and food, you won’t be disappointed.

TibetTibet is the traditional homeland of the Tibetan People, as well asother ethnic groups such as Monpas, Qiang and Lhobas. It is nowalso inhabited by considerable numbers of Han and Hui People.There are over 800 small settlements in Tibet. Lhasa is Tibet’straditional capital and a city well worth visiting. It contains twoWorld Heritage Sites—the Potala Palace and Norbulingka, whichwere the residences of the Dalai Lama. Lhasa also boasts a numberof beautiful and significant temples and monasteries, includingJokhang and Ramoche Temple.

The Himalayas, Bhutan & NepalFormed when India broke away from the African Continent and collided with Asia, the Himalaya Mountain Range covers thenorthern part of India and includes the independent Kingdoms ofNepal and Bhutan. Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, isjust one of the many high peaks to be found along its length.

Shimla, the former Summer Capital of India, is a great springboardfor exploring the surrounding mountains and offers a full range of accommodation. There are a number of health spas scatteredthroughout the ranges, all offering different experiences. TheKingdom of Bhutan offers a most pristine experience, as it was onlyrecently opened up to visitors yet has retained its traditional way oflife. Additionally, the Bhutanese have been rated the happiest peoplein Asia! The Kingdom of Nepal is more developed but a must see asit is home to Everest and many other scenic and cultural treasures.

Sri LankaLegend as well as history record that Sri Lanka (“Ceylon”) has alwaysdelighted visitors to its shores. For countless centuries its fragrantspices, beauty, sublime culture and friendly people captivated theirattention. Today too, this small tropical island, set in the IndianOcean, with its elevated central highlands and World Heritage listedsites, has so much to offer. All this natural beauty and history makesit easy to combine prime resort beaches with wildlife encountersand cultural experiences to create a memorable holiday which isboth relaxing and adventurous at the same time.

Indus

Ganges

Sri Lanka

Pakistan

Nepal

Maldives

India

China

Burma

Bhutan

Bangladesh

Tibeta

Goa

Sunderbans

Corbett NP

Pokhara

Thekkady

Pahalgam

Kumarakom

Kohima

Kanha

Jodhpur

Jaisalmer

Gulmarg

Dimapur

Dharamsala

Bandhavgarh

Agra

Paro

Shimla

Kandy

Bentota

UdaipurVaranasi

Srinagar

Mysore

Amritsar

Nagpur

Mumbai

Madurai

Kolkata

Jaipur

Cochin

ChennaiBangalore

Ranthambore NP Thimphu

New DelhiKathmandu

Colombo

Lhasa


AN AUSTRALIAN OWNED COMPANY

4

why inca tours?Value for MoneyAt Inca Tours we believe our guests should get value for money.Cheap tours normally result in dissatisfaction and a feeling that theexperience was a waste of money. The reason is that on cheap toursmost of what you wish to do and see is not included and requiresextra cost, a cost which you have not taken into account when youbooked. This is how they keep the cost of the tour down! Had youtaken all the costs into account then the so called “cheap tours” donot turn out to have been the cheapest option. For this reason,everything detailed in our tour itineraries or in your private Tailor-made Tour is included in the cost unless it clearly states “optional”.

PlanningIn planning a visit to a diverse region, one not only has to decidewhat to see and how much time to spend in each location but justas importantly, what to avoid. Tours must be sensibly organised tosatisfy special interests, whether they be the majestic scenery, thedynamic cities of today, the monuments of past civilisations, thecolourful people who call it home, meeting new friends or justhaving a good time! We do all this and more, because our tours areplanned and operated by people who know and above all, love India.

ExperienceAt Inca Tours we have over 30 years experience organising privateand small group tours to various parts of the world. This means youcan be assured we will suggest the very best private holiday or grouptour possible, which results in you returning home having had a greatexperience. You will remember your holiday for all the right reasons!

ReliabilityWe only use well established operators with a long track record,some for over 25 years. They are not the cheapest but they are thebest. We use them because we know what standard of service theydeliver and that they will not cut corners to save money.

Destination KnowledgeThe current owners of Inca Tours lived for many years in variousparts of the world, having organised and lead tours on differentcontinents dating back over twenty five years. All of our India SalesProfessionals have actually been to the continent and will thereforebe giving you first hand knowledge, not information they have readin brochures or heard about from others. To ensure that you receivethe most relevant and up-to-date knowledge of the destinations, weare constantly updating our staff through visits to this vast region.

Strong Past Client ReferralIn most cases, regardless whether they travelled on a Tailor-madeTour or on a set departure Group Tour, Inca Tours’ guests returnwith great memories and an appreciation for the smooth manner inwhich their holiday was conducted. They are usually so taken withthe service that they offer to act as independent referees for us. Soif you would like to speak with a person who has travelled with uson a similar itinerary to what you are considering, please let us knowand we will put you in contact with one of our valued past clients.

AccommodationAll Tailor-made Tour hotels and lodges retain the character andcharm of India. We avoid where possible, the chrome and glass hotelsof major international chains, preferring to experience the culture andlifestyle first hand in properties with local character. All hotels, lodges,vessels and trains are of Standard, Superior or Deluxe-class (3-star, 4-star or 5-star). We only use properties which have been inspectedby an Inca Tours’ staff member or one of our representative offices.

Local RepresentationInca Tours has representative offices in India (Delhi, Mumbai,Chennai, Kolkata, Cochin, Bangalore, Goa, Varanasi, Khajuraho,Agra, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Darjeeling, Madurai andShimla); Nepal (Kathmandu); Bhutan (Thimphu); Tibet (Lhasa);Sri Lanka (Colombo); and the Maldives (Male). These offices arethere to support you during your holiday and to give you peace ofmind that help is close at hand should anything come up. This maybe something as simple as “where is a good restaurant?” to anymajor incident that requires immediate assistance. Our representativeoffices are also the bases from which our expert local guides operate.

From the Managing DirectorI hope you can join us on one of our very special, private Tailor-madeTours to India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet or Sri Lanka. I’m certain youwill find it an exciting, educational and enjoyable experience to thisunique part of the world. Please call me on 1800 024 955 if youhave any questions regarding our services in India. Shubh Yatra!

Mike KuhlManaging Director

inca tours: personalised & private services


GET THE MOST FROM THIS BROCHURE

6

“ This brochure is more about ideas andpossibilities than fixed itineraries...”

Points to ConsiderBelow are some important issues you need to research wellwhen choosing an itinerary to the Indian subcontinent:• Often descriptions in brochures look the same but vary in time

and quality when experienced.• The transfers, city tours and sightseeing tours described in this

brochure are mainly run on a “private” basis—unless otherwise requested. The cheaper alternative is the “seat-in-coach” service which we do not usually recommend, as it can involve delays while the transfer vehicle frequents one hotel after another.

• We prefer to visit Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks whichoffer the very best chance of seeing Tiger in the wild.

• Road travel times are very different from what you would expect at home. Driving 300 kilometres can take as much as ten hours due to the state of the roads and the congestion. Flying or travelling by express train between places usually offers a better use of your time, although it does add additional cost.

• There are many “Palace Hotels” in India, many of which are stillowned by the various royal families, offering you the idea of greatcomfort and style but which, on arrival, turn out to be in variousstates of disrepair with poor plumbing and substandard furniture.For this reason we only use properties which we have either inspected ourselves or had our local representatives inspect.

• The hotel grading system in the India Region does not reflect what many of our guests expect. Many supposed “5-star” hotels turn out to be 3 or 4-star. We therefore grade all hotels used. In addition, we have inspected all of the properties we use. They areall well located, clean, have private facilities and include breakfast.

• We don’t use Kerala Backwater Houseboats for Tailor-made Tourswhich are rated at less than 5-star. The reason for this is that anything less would be considered 3-star or less by our standards.

Comparative CostingsWe appreciate that you may be seeking comparative costings fromother agencies so we wish to stress the importance of “comparingapples with apples.” Our clients often ask us to comment on travelproposals they have obtained elsewhere. Because of our experiencein India we are able to identify subtle differences in the standard ofservices quoted, non-apparent optional extras and hidden exclusions.

Having said that, please allow us to make the following points. Wedo not necessarily contract the cheapest available ground services.However by selecting services on reliability rather than price, weknow the quality of our service is second to none.We simply paymore for higher quality, professional and reliable services. Thisdramatically increases the enjoyment of the tour for our clients.

Costs on the enclosed Price Insert Most tours in this brochure depart with a minimum of two people.We also quote a single supplement but this is not applicable if thereis only one person on the departure. It only relates to where thereare two or more people and one or more of them are solo travellers.

Tailor-made Tours & TravelIf you do not necessarily want to travel as part of a group or youwish to travel with your own group of friends, then this is wherethis brochure really comes into its own. Anything you see in theitineraries can be modified and altered to suit what you would liketo do. This means you can pick and choose components from thedifferent itineraries and make up your own unique tour to suit exactlywhat you wish to do. Almost anything is possible at Inca Tours!

Inca Tours has a faultless reputation for organising escorted grouptours, but what most travellers do not realise is that the majority of guests who travel with us, do so on a private Tailor-made Tour.

Just tell us what you have in mind: the standard of accommodation;if you want private or seat-in-coach services; when you wish to departand when you wish to return. One of our Travel Professionals willdo the rest! You will receive a detailed itinerary with everythingincluded that you requested, as well as a clear costing for your tour.

All of the Inca Tours’ Travel Professionals who handle the IndiaRegion enquiries and bookings have actually been there. This willgive you confidence regarding their advice when constructing youritinerary, because their suggestions come from first hand experience,having spent time in the destinations they are recommending to you.

Small Group Tours versus Tailor-made ToursIf you are looking to travel on an escorted small group tour, you willneed to look at the India, Nepal & Bhutan Gold Tours brochure.These tours (with a maximum of 18 guests) have set departure datesand are therefore not as flexible as the India, Nepal, Bhutan& TibetTailor-made Tours detailed in this brochure.

If you are interested in any of our India, Nepal, Bhutan& Tibet Tours, please call us toll free on 1800 024 955and we will confirm the current prices for you.

your travel optionsA beautiful buddha

DAY 1 SundayArrive Delhi

On arrival in Delhi you are met and takento your hotel for the night.

DAY 2 MondayDelhi / Varanasi

After breakfast you are taken to the airportfor your flight to Varanasi. (Cost of this flightis additional.) On arrival you are met andtaken on a tour of Sarnath,which symbolisesthe birth of Buddhism with sculpturesdating back as far as the 3rd Century BC. In the evening you visit the Ganges wheretemples are lit with oil-lamps and candles.This light, combined with the aromas ofincense sticks, oil lamps and flowers fillingthe air, makes the experience magical as youwatch hundreds of little lamps float outonto the Ganges River as offerings duringthe Arti Ceremony (“collective prayer”).After this most spiritual experience you arereturned to your hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 3 TuesdayVaranasi / Khajuraho

You witness an incredible scene on an early morning boat ride, as thousands of pilgrims and other devotees immersethemselves in the holy water of the Gangesto pay their homage to the revered SunGod. This is followed by a late breakfastbefore being taken to the airport for yourflight to Khajuraho. (Cost of this flight isadditional.) In the realm of architecture,Khajuraho holds a unique position!

The temples here were built between 950and1,050 AD by the Chandela Dynasty,who claims descent from the Moon Godand a mortal, Hemavati, with whom thegod fell in love. After freshening up at yourhotel you have a comprehensive tour of theEastern and Western Group of Temples.These contain some of the finest examplesof Chandela Art to be found. (B)

DAY 4 WednesdayKhajuraho / Agra

You start the day with a final visit to theKhajuraho Temples. Later you are driven toJhansi visiting Orchha enroute. Once thecapital of its own state, Orchha is made upof three joined palaces in the same style asthe palace in Udaipur. On arrival in Jhansiyou board the Shatabdi Express Train toAgra. On arrival this evening you are metand taken to your hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 5 ThursdayAgra

Early today you visit what is one of theabsolute highlights of the tour: the TajMahal, built in memory of his belovedempress, Mumtaz Mahal, by Emperor Shah Jahan. This marble mausoleum is thegreatest gesture of love known to mankind.It is breathtakingly beautiful with manyprecious stones used in its inlays. Timed to correspond with the sunrise, you haveample time to explore this memorial.

Later in the day you visit the Agra Fort andSikandra, a beautiful tomb built for theMughal Emperor Akbar the Great. (B)


DELHI, UTTAR PRADESH,

jama masjid mosque, delhi

Nepal

India

Tibet

Khajuraho

Jodhpur Agra

UdaipurVaranasi

NagarkotJaipur

Kathmandu

LhasaNew Delhi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Varanasi & Ganges’ Arti Ceremony.• Khajuraho & its unique architecture.• A tour of the beautiful Taj Mahal.• Agra & the Agra Fort.• Jaipur “Pink City”& Jodhpur “Blue City”.• Udaipur & City Palace Tour.• Old & New Delhi City Tour.• Kathmandu, Nepal’s ancient capital.• Nagarkot & its views of Mount Everest.• A flight around Mount Everest.• Potala Palace, a well known landmark.• Drepung Monastery & Sera Monastery.• Bharkhor Bazaar, Tibet’s oldest market.• Jolkhang Temple, Lhasa’s most sacred.• Norbulingkha Palace, the “Jewel Park”.

Dining Experiences• This tour includes many but not all meals, allowing you to do what you wantand eat where you like in your free time.

• 36 superb meals included in the tour: 20 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches & 9 Dinners.

Please Note• This tour is comprised of more than one small group tour, so local guides and guests will change periodically.

• This tour includes high altitude areas.• For this tour a Chinese Visa (US$114) must be paid for in Kathmandu. Inca Tours will arrange this in advance.8

21 days: indianepal & tibet

DAY 6 FridayAgra / Jaipur

Today you travel by road to Jaipur, theCapital of Rajasthan and often referred to as the “Pink City”. Enroute you will visit Fatehpur Sikri, also known as the“Deserted” or “Ghost City”. It was thecapital of the Moghal emperor Akbar. (B)

DAY 7 SaturdayJaipur

You undertake a comprehensive full day tour of Jaipur taking in the highlightsthis interesting city has to offer. Theyinclude the Hawa Mahal, or the “Palace ofWinds”, the Jantar Mantar (AstronomicalObservatory) and the ornately decoratedAmber Fort, located just outside the city.This was the seat of power before the CityPalace was built, which is visited on yourreturn to the city. (B)

DAY 8 SundayJaipur / Jodhpur

After breakfast you are driven to Jodhpur,also called the “Blue City”, which is locatedon the edge of the Thar Desert. Thisafternoon your tour takes you to theMehrangarh Fort. Towering over the city, it contains a number of grand palaces, each of which is an impressive example of architectural excellence.

Before returning to the hotel for theevening you visit Jaswant Thada, where anumber of cenotaphs erected in1899 are to be found. (B)

DAY 9 MondayJodhpur / Udaipur

After breakfast you are driven through the rugged, wooded hills of Rajasthan tothe Jain Temples of Ranakpur. Noted forthe grandiose scale of their architecture, the resident priests are still continuing theconstruction to this day. After viewing thetemples you continue on to Udaipur, alsoknown as the “Lake City” because of itstwo most beautiful sites, the dream-like JagNiwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandirmarble palaces, which appear to rise fromthe blue waters of Lake Pichhola. (B)

DAY 10 TuesdayUdaipur

This morning you have a tour to Eklingjiand Nagda Temples, some of which datefrom the16th Century. In the afternoon youvisit the famous City Palace. It is actually acollection of palaces surrounded by the royalpalace walls, which stretch over a mile onthe eastern side of the lake. Following thisyou undertake a boat ride on the lake. (B)

DAY 11 WednesdayUdaipur / Delhi

After breakfast you are taken to the airportfor your flight to Delhi. (Cost of this flightis additional.) This afternoon you undertakea comprehensive tour of Old and NewDelhi including: India Gate, Houses ofParliament, Raj Ghat, Mahatma GandhiMemorial, Red Fort and Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. You also visitQutab Minar, a1,500 year old tower. (B)

DAY 12 ThursdayDelhi / Kathmandu

Following breakfast you are taken to theairport for your flight to Kathmandu. (Cost of this flight is additional.) On arrival at Kathmandu Airport you are metand taken to your centrally located hotelwhere you stay for two nights. In theevening you are introduced to the cultureof Nepal with a Cultural Dinner &Danceat a local restaurant.

Kathmandu the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has theair of a medieval city; a maze of narrowstreets, wooden temples and beautifullydecorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of janglingcymbals and the markets are a rich blend of colours and aromas.

Only in the1950s was Nepal opened up to visitors and today the contrast between21st Century technology and traditionallifestyles help to make Kathmandu one ofthe world’s most fascinating cities. (BD)

DAY 13 FridayKathmandu

This morning you are taken on asightseeing tour of Kathmandu visitingamongst others the Temple of Kumari, the residence of the living Goddess with its carved wooden balconies and windowsand the fabulous Buddhist Stupa ofSwayambhunath, which is said to be over2,000 years old.


RAJASTHAN,

9ganges river dweller

camel herder, thar desert city palace balcony, jaipur

In the afternoon you visit Patan City or“the City of Fine Arts”, as it is also known.Here you visit Patan Durbar Squaresituated in the heart of the city. PatanDurbar Square contains a number of Hindu Temples and Buddhist Monuments. It consists of three main chowks orcourtyards, the central Mul Chowk,Sundari Chowk and Keshav Chowk. Withthe assistance of your expert guide you getto explore this interesting area dating backmany hundreds of years. (BLD)

DAY 14 SaturdayKathmandu / Nagarkot

Following breakfast you are taken to yourhotel in Nagarkot. Nagarkot is a small hillstation located to the east of Kathmandu.A good panoramic view of the major peaksof the eastern Nepal Himalayas, includingMt Everest, can be seen from here. Youhave the day at leisure to enjoy yoursurroundings. (BLD)

DAY 15 SundayNagarkot / Kathmandu

You rise early today to watch the sunriseover Mt Everest before returning to yourhotel for breakfast. Following breakfast youare returned to your hotel in Kathmandu.

In the afternoon you are taken to BhaktapurCity or the “City of Devotees”, as it is alsocalled. It is shaped like a conch shell andwas the setting for the major Hollywoodproduction The Little Buddha. Pottery and weavings are its traditional industries.

Here you will also visit other architecturalshowpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery,Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows,Bastille Temple and the Bell of BarkingDogs. You also visit Natyapola Templebefore being returned to your hotel for this evening. (BLD)

DAY 16 MondayKathmandu

Early this morning you have theopportunity to undertake a flight aroundMt Everest. After breakfast you are taken toBoudhanath, which is possibly the world’slargest Buddhist stupa and a site of greatveneration for Buddhists.

Around the stupa a number of monasteriesof the different sects of Tibetan Buddhismhave been established including one thathouses an enormous, splendidly adorned,seated statue of Maitreya Buddha. You alsovisit Pashupatinath, the most sacred ofHindu Temples in Nepal and situated onthe banks of the holy Bagmati River. Yourafternoon is at leisure. This evening you are taken out for dinner. (BLD)

DAY 17 TuesdayKathmandu / Lhasa

This morning you are taken to the airportfor your flight to Lhasa. (Cost of this flightis additional.) On arrival you are met andtaken to your hotel for the night. (BD)


NEPAL

shiva temple, nepal

patan durbar square, nepal

10expert local guides throughout

DAY 18 WednesdayLhasa

After breakfast you visit Potala Palace; theDrepung Monastery and Bharkhor Bazaar.

Potala Palace is probably the best knownlandmark in Tibet, consisting of13 storiesand1,000 rooms. Once the winter palaceof the Dalai Lama, it is now a museum. It can be seen from everywhere in Lhasa.

Drepung (meaning “Rice Heap”) Monasterywas the biggest and the richest of all themonasteries in Tibet. Said to be the largestMonastery in the world, at its peak ithoused over10,000 monks and governed7,700 subsidiary monasteries. Founded in1416 the second, third and fourth DalaiLama lived and were entombed here.Today only about 400 monks lived there.

Bharkhor Bazaar is the largest and oldestmarket in Tibet. As you walk through OldLhasa, with its narrow streets, white stonehomes, black window frames and brightlypainted woodwork, you will notice thatalmost everyone is selling something! (BLD)

DAY 19 ThursdayLhasa

Today you visit Sera Monastery, JolkhangTemple and Norbulingkha Palace.

Sera Monastery, north of Central Lhasa is Tibet’s second largest monastery. Thisfamous place was named after wild rosesgrowing here when founded in1419. At itspeak it housed 7,000 monks and was famousfor its warrior monks, the “Dob-Doa”.

Jokhang Temple is located in the heart ofOld Lhasa and is the most sacred and oldesttemple in Lhasa. According to tradition thetemple was built for the two brides of theking, one from the Chinese Tang Dynastyand the other from Nepal. Both wives aresaid to have brought important BuddhistStatues and Images from China and Nepalto Tibet as part of their dowries.

Norbulinkha Palace or the “Jewel Park”, asit is known in Tibetan, was built in the18th Century by 7th Dalai Lama and servedas the summer palace of the13th and14th

Dalai Lamas. The palace is an interestingmixture of religious and modern elementsand featured a colourful garden which wasthe site of picnic and public gatherings.

The palaces are richly decorated, creatingan atmosphere of peaceful repose. (BLD)

DAY 20 FridayLhasa

Today’s tour takes you out of the city to the Gandan Monastery. Meaning “Joyful”,Gandan Monastery is located on WangburMountain and has commanding views ofthe Kich Valley below. Like Sera Monastery,it is one of the three most significantGelugpa University Monasteries. (BLD)

DAY 21 SaturdayDepart Lhasa

Following breakfast you are collected fromyour hotel and taken to the airport whereyour tour comes to an end. (B)


& TIBET

11potala palace, lhasa

mountain village, tibet

India, Nepal & Tibet Departs* The 1st and 3rd Sunday of themonth as a Small Group Tour,with a minimum of two people.Alternatively and at additionalcost, any day of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.

Times to visitBest: March to April.Shoulder: Nov to Feb but the

higher areas will be cold.

Star rating3-star only.

DAY 1 SundayArrive Chennai

Your tour begins on arrival in Chennaiwhere you are met and taken to your hotelfor a relaxing two night stay.

Chennai is one of the four majormetropolitan cities of India and is thecapital of Tamil Nadu. Stretched out onthe coastline where the blue waters of theBay of Bengal mingle with golden sandbeaches, its forts and palaces remind one of a bygone era.

DAY 2 MondayChennai

After a leisurely breakfast you undertake afull day city tour of Chennai or “Madras”,as it used to be known during britishColonial times. Although it was the oldestsettlement of the British in India, the onlyremnants of this period are the cathedraland the Fort of St George, which you visit during the tour. (B)

DAY 3 TuesdayChennai / Mahabalipuram

Today you are taken by road to the seasidevillage of Mahabalipuram. A UNESCOWorld Heritage Site, it showcases severalantique sculptural marvels and frescoes. On the way you visit Kanchipuram, known as the “Golden City of a ThousandTemples”, it is one of India’s sacred cities.

This afternoon you are taken on a tour ofsome of the more significant sites to befound in the area. (B)

DAY 4 WednesdayMahabalipuram/ Pondicherry

Your day starts with a drive to Pondicherry.This afternoon you tour Pondicherry,including the Aurobindo Ashram. (B)

DAY 5 ThursdayPondicherry / Tanjore

Today is a full day drive but you have stopsat Chidambaram and Kumbakonam. (B)

DAY 6 FridayTanjore

After breakfast you undertake a morningtour of Tanjore which includes a stop at theBrihadiswara Temple. The afternoon is atleisure to relax or to further explore. (B)

DAY 7 SaturdayTanjore / Trichy

You start the day with a relatively shortdrive to Trichy. In the afternoon you visitthe town as well as the Ranganatha Templeat Srirangam. This beautifully sculptedtemple is the largest in India. (B)

DAY 8 SundayTrichy / Madurai

After breakfast you are driven to Madurai.Known as the “Athens of the East”, Maduraiis more than 2,000 years old and is believedto have been built by the Pandyan KingKulasekara in the 6th Century BC. In theafternoon you visit the Meenakshi Temple.Designed in1560, it covers an area of sixhectares, has four main entrances, twelvetowers and 985 richly carved pillars! (B)


TAMIL NADU,

meenakshi sundareswarer temple, madurai

Nepal

India

ThekkadyKumarakom

Jodhpur

AgraMandawa

BikanerJaisalmer

Udaipur

Madurai

Jaipur

Cochin

ChennaiMahabalipuramPondicherryTanjore

Trichy

Pushkar

New Delhi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Chennai City Tour.• Mahabalipuram, a World Heritage Site.• Pondicherry & the Aurobindo Ashram.• Tanjore & the Brihadiswara Temple.• Trichy & nearby Srirangam.• Madurai, the “Athens of the East”.• Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.• Kerala Backwaters’ Houseboat Cruise.• Kumarakom & its famous Bird Park.• Cochin Sightseeing Tour.• Kathakali Dance Drama Performance.• Full day Old & New Delhi City Tour.• Mandawa & Bikaner.• Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tour.• Sunset Camel Ride in the Sam Desert.• Jodhpur, the “Blue City”.• Udaipur & City Palace Tour.• Pushkar & Pushkar Lake Tour.• Jaipur, the “Pink City”.• A tour of the beautiful Taj Mahal.• Agra & the Agra Fort.

Dining Experiences• 28 superb meals included in the tour: 27 Breakfasts & 1Dinner.

Please Note• This tour is comprised of more than one small group tour, so guides and other guests will change periodically.

12

28 days: India South to north

DAY 9 MondayMadurai / Thekkady

After enjoying breakfast you are driven toThekkady. This will provide an insight intothe life of the locals as you travel past ricepaddies and travel through several smallvillages. As you climb the escarpment tothe village of Thekkady, famous for itsspices, you notice a change in climate and vegetation. Kerala, the spice capital of the world, was wholly dependent untilrecent times on its spice trade and traderscame from far and wide to purchase theseprecious commodities. Later you visit aspice plantation for an afternoon tour. (B)

DAY 10 TuesdayThekkady / Houseboat

This morning you are taken to the PeriyarWildlife Sanctuary, for a walk before beingdriven to Kumarakom. On arrival you aretransferred to your houseboat for a relaxingbackwaters cruise and overnight stay.Fringing the coast of Kerala and windingfar inland is a vast network of lagoons,lakes, rivers and canals. Floating throughthese placid waters, passing palm fringedcanals, lakes and villages you will observethe locals. You dine onboard as you leisurelymeander through this fascinating area. (BD)

DAY 11 WednesdayHouseboat / Kumarakom

Following breakfast you disembark and aretaken to your hotel. In the afternoon youvisit the Kumarakom Bird Park. (B)

DAY 12 ThursdayKumarakom

You have the full day at leisure to relax orto explore in your own time. (B)

DAY 13 FridayKumarakom – Cochin

Today you are driven to Cochin where youundertake an afternoon sightseeing tour.

Cochin, with its wealth of historicalassociations, and its magnificent setting ona cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas,Cochin is one of the most fascinating cities of coastal South India. It is a city with indelible marks of Christianity, Islam,Hinduism and Jewish traditions. Of specialmention is the older parts of the FortCochin area which more or less exists as itused to a1,000 year ago. This part of thecity reflects an unusual blend of medievalPortugal, Dutch and English country lifegrafted on to the tropical Malabar Coast.

A special treat awaits you this evening as youproceed to witness the strength and vigourof Kathakali Dance Drama. The extremelystylised gestures, the elaborate make-up, themasks and the splendid costumes of theseall-male dancers, recreates an incomparablesense of pageantry. (B)

DAY 14 SaturdayCochin

You have a day at leisure to explore themarkets in your own time or simply relaxat your hotel. (B)

DAY 15 SundayCochin / Delhi

Following a leisurely breakfast you aretaken to the airport for your flight toDelhi. (Cost of this flight is additional.)On arrival in Delhi you are met and takento your hotel for a two-night stay. (B)

DAY 16 MondayDelhi

Following breakfast you undertake asightseeing tour of Old Delhi during which you visit the Red Fort, Raj Ghat, the memorial site of the Mahatma Gandhi;Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India;and Chandni Chowk, the bustling andcolourful market of the old city.

In the afternoon you visit New Delhiwhich includes visits to Qutab Minar, a72 metre high iron pillar which hassurvived the vagaries of weather for over1,500 years, You also visit the Governmentbuildings, built between1921 and1930. (B)

DAY 17 TuesdayDelhi / Mandawa

Today you are taken by road to Mandawawhere, in the afternoon you tour the fortsand palace around town. Mandawa is asmall town in the Shekhawati Region ofRajasthan. It has a unique medieval charmwith each home painted in the Shekhawatistyle, known for its unique colours. (B)

DAY 18 WednesdayMandawa – Bikaner

The day sees you driven to Bikaner with an afternoon tour of the town. Bikaner is adesert fortified city on the ancient caravanroutes that linked Africa and West Asia.The fort, founded by Raja Rai Singh, isdistinguished by its numerous pavilionsand elaborate balconies. (B)

DAY 19 ThursdayBikaner / Jaisalmer

After breakfast you depart for Jaisalmer. This drive takes most of the day. (B)

DAY 20 FridayJaisalmer

Today you undertake a half day sightseeingtour of Jaisalmer, which is followed by asunset camel ride in the Sam Desert, only a short drive from the city.


KERALA, RAJASTHAN,

13houseboat, kerala backwaters

Jaisalmer, the “Citadel City” as it is oftencalled, was built in the12th Century fromyellow sandstone and lies in the silence of the Thar Desert. The forts, palaces and superbly carved Jain Temples in andaround Jaisalmer are all reminiscent of aglorious history. (B)

DAY 21 SaturdayJaisalmer / Jodhpur

You set off this morning for Jodhpur, alsoknown as the “Blue City”. In the afternoonyou tour the city, as well as the MehrangarhFort. Jodhpur was the home of the RathoreRulers and still has its high stone wallsurrounding the city, built to protect itduring their rule. Overlooking Jodhpur isthe imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which wasfounded in1459 AD. The fort is intricatelyadorned with long carved panels andlatticed windows, designed of exquisite red sandstone. (B)

DAY 22 SundayJodhpur / Udaipur

Your journey today takes you to Udaipur.Enroute you visit the Jain Temples inRanakpur. (B)

DAY 23 MondayUdaipur

You start the day with a visit to the SriEklingji and Nagda Temples. In theafternoon you tour the “Lake City”, asUdaipur is also known, before undertakinga boat ride on Lake Pichola. Udaipur is acool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan and is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romanticor exotic tale to tell. The huge City Palace,towering over the Lake Pichola, is thelargest palace complex in Rajasthan. (B)

DAY 24 TuesdayUdaipur / Pushkar

Following breakfast you are driven toPushkar where you undertake a tour of the town and Pushkar Lake in the afternoon.Pushkar is a well known Hindu PilgrimCentre. It is also known for its camel andcattle fair. (B)

DAY 25 WednesdayPushkar / Jaipur

Today you travel to Jaipur with a visit toAjmer on the way. On arrival in Jaipur youhave the rest of the afternoon at leisure. (B)

DAY 26 ThursdayJaipur

This morning you visit the Amber Fort,the former capital of the Royal Jaipurs.Your guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with itsmirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaicsand water-cooled swings that delighttoday’s visitors as they did their formerroyal residents. In the afternoon you visitthe city of Jaipur. During the tour you seethe Hawa Mahal or “Palace of the Winds”,a five-storied structure of pink sandstoneoverlooking the main street of the old city.You also visit the City Palace in the heart of the old city, with its blend of Rajasthaniand Mughal architecture. (B)

DAY 27 FridayJaipur / Agra

After breakfast you are driven to Agra witha visit to Fatehpur Sikri enroute. FatehpurSikri was built by Emperor Akbar as hiscapital. It was a veritable fairy tale city withits ruins still in a pristine condition. (B)

DAY 28 SaturdayAgra / Depart Delhi

Today you undertake a sunrise visit to theTaj Mahal. No matter how many photos ofit you have seen, the Taj never disappoints!Besides its perfect symmetry, the inlay ofsemi-precious stones into marble is simplyremarkable. Later you visit the Agra Fortbefore being taken to Delhi Airport. (B)


UTTAR PRADESH & DELHI

the taj mahal, agra

14

India South to North Departs* The 4th Sunday of the month as a Small Group Tour, with a minimum of two people. Alternatively and at additionalcost, most days of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.

Time to visitBest: November to March.


Jaisalmer, thar desert

DAY 1 Arrive Kathmandu

On arrival into Kathmandu you are metand taken to your centrally located hotel fortwo nights. This evening you are introducedto the culture of Nepal with a CulturalDinner & Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has theair of a medieval city. It is a maze of narrowstreets, wooden temples and beautifullydecorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of janglingcymbals and the markets are a rich blend ofcolours and aromas. Only in the1950s wasNepal opened up to visitors and today thecontrast between 21st Century technologyand traditional lifestyles help to makeKathmandu one of the world’s mostfascinating cities. (BD)

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on asightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visitingamong others the Temple of Kumari, theresidence of the Living Goddess with itscarved wooden balconies and windows.You also visit the fabulous Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath, which is said to be over 2,000 years old.

In the afternoon you visit Patan City or“the City of Fine Arts”, as it is also known.Here you visit Patan Durbar Square,situated in the heart of the city andboasting many Hindu Temples andBuddhist Monuments. It consists of threemain chowks or courtyards, the central

Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and KeshavChowk. With the assistance of your guide,you will explore this interesting area datingback many hundreds of years. (BLD)

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Nagarkot


DAY 4 Nagarkot / Kathmandu

You rise early today to watch the sunriseover Mt Everest before returning to yourhotel for breakfast. Following breakfast youare taken to your hotel in Kathmandu.

This afternoon you are taken to BhaktapurCity or the “City of Devotees”, as it is alsocalled. It is shaped like a conch shell andwas the setting for the major Hollywoodproduction The Little Buddha. Pottery and weavings are its traditional industries. Here you also visit other architecturalshowpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery,Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows,Bastille Temple and the Bell of BarkingDogs. You also visit Natyapola Templebefore returning to your hotel. (BLD)

DAY 5 Kathmandu

Early this morning you have the chance to undertake a flight around Mt Everest.


NEPAL,

15

jewellery from the region

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Kathmandu, Nepal’s ancient capital.• Nagarkot & its views of Mount Everest.• A flight around Mount Everest.• Potala Palace, a well known landmark.• The Drepung Monastery, Tibet’s largest.• Bharkhor Bazaar, Tibet’s oldest market.• Sera Monastery, Tibet’s second largest.• Jolkhang Temple, Lhasa’s most sacred.• Norbulingkha Palace, the “Jewel Park”.• Paro & its picturesque valley surrounds.• Thimphu & its Buddhist Culture.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes almost all meals, as there are very few alternative dining options available in the destinations visited.

• 36 superb meals included in the tour: 13 Breakfasts,10 Lunches & 13Dinners.

Please Note• This tour is comprised of more than one small group tour, so local guides and guests will change periodically.

• This tour includes high altitude areas.• You may elect to undertake Nepal & Tibet only or alternatively, Tibet & Bhutan only, at a reduced cost.

• For this tour a Chinese Visa (US$114) must be paid for in Kathmandu. Inca Tours will arrange this in advance.

Nepal

India

Bhutan

Tibet

Nagarkot ParoKathmandu

Lhasa

Thimphu

14 days: Nepal Tibet & bhutan

Following breakfast you are taken toBoudhanath, which is possibly the world’slargest Buddhist Stupa and a site of greatveneration for Buddhists. Around the stupa a number of monasteries of thedifferent sects of Tibetan Buddhism havegrown up including one that houses anenormous, splendidly adorned, seatedstatue of Maitreya Buddha. You also visitPashupatinath, the most sacred of HinduTemples in Nepal and situated on thebanks of the holy Bagmati River.

You have the remainder of the day at leisureuntil you are taken out to dinner. (BLD)

DAY 6 Kathmandu / Lhasa

After breakfast you are taken to KathmanduAirport for your flight to Lhasa, Tibet.(Cost of this flight is additional.) On arrivalat Lhasa Airport you are met and taken toyour hotel for the night. (BD)

DAY 7 Lhasa

Following breakfast today you visit Potala Palace, the Drepung Monastery andBharkhor Bazaar.

Potala Palace is probably the best knownlandmark in Tibet. It consists of13 storiesand1,000 rooms and was previously thewinter palace of the Dalai Lama. Now amuseum, it can be seen and photographedfrom any part of Lhasa.

Drepung (meaning “Rice Heap”)Monastery was the biggest and the richestof all the monasteries in Tibet. Said to bethe largest Monastery in the world, at its

peak it housed over10,000 monks andgoverned 7,700 subsidiary monasteries.Founded in1416 the second, third andfourth Dalai Lama lived and wereentombed here. Today only about 400monks lived there.

Bharkhor Bazaar is the largest and oldestmarket in Tibet. As you walk through theheart of old Lhasa, with its narrow streetswhite-washed stone homes, windowsframed in black and brightly paintedwoodwork, you will notice that almosteveryone has something to sell! (BLD)

DAY 8 Lhasa

Today you visit the Sera Monastery,Jolkhang Temple and Norbulingkha Palace.

Sera Monastery is situated to the north ofCentral Lhasa and is Tibet’s second largestmonastery. This famous place was namedafter the wild roses growing around it whenit was founded in1419. At its peak it housedover 7,000 monks and was known for itswarrior monks known as the “Dob-Doa”.

Jokhang Temple is located in the heart ofold Lhasa and is the most sacred and oldesttemple in Lhasa. According to tradition, it was built for the two brides of the king,one from the Chinese Tang Dynasty and the other from Nepal. Both are said to havebrought to Tibet important Buddhist Statuesand images from China and Nepal as partof their dowries and they were housed here.

Norbulinkha Palace or the “Jewel Park”, asit is known in Tibetan, was built in the18th

Century by 7th Dalai Lama and served asthe summer palace of the13th and14th DalaiLamas. The palace is an interesting mixtureof religious and modern elements andfeatured a colourful garden landscape whichwas the site of picnic and public gatherings.The palaces are richly decorated, creatingan atmosphere of peaceful repose. (BLD)

DAY 9 Lhasa

Your tour today takes you out of the city to the Gandan Monastery. Meaning“Joyful”, Gandan Monastery is located onWangbur Mountain and has commandingviews of the Kich Valley down below. Like Sera Monastery, it is one of the threemost significant Gelugpa UniversityMonasteries. (BLD)


TIBET

mountain landscape, nepal

bodhnath stupa, nepal

16

DAY 10 Lhasa / Paro

This morning you are taken to the airportto fly to Paro in Bhutan, via Kathmanduwhere you change planes. (Cost of theseflights is additional.) On arrival you are metand taken to your hotel for the night. Parois located in a beautiful valley encapsulatinga rich culture, scenic beauty and hundredsof myths and legends. It is home to manyof Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries,the country’s only airport and the NationalMuseum. Mt Chomolhari (7,300 metres)reigns in white glory at the northern end ofthe valley, its glacial waters plunging downto form the Pa Chu (“Paro River”). (BD)

DAY 11 Paro / Thimphu

After breakfast you walk to the TaktsangMonastery, the most famous in Bhutan andperched on a cliff 900 metres above the ParoValley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpochearrived here on the back of a tigress andmeditated at this place, hence the monasteryis also called “Tiger’s Nest”. This site is aplace of pilgrimage which Bhutanese try tovisit at least once in a lifetime. The excursionup to the viewing area located on a rockyoutcrop across a ravine from the monasterytakes about five hours round trip. Thoughthe climb is steep, the journey is worthwhileon account of the superb views enroute.After lunch you are taken to your hotel inThimphu, the capital. Exquisitely beautifuland boasting traditional Bhutanese art,architecture and culture, this tiny capitalcity is nothing less than Shangri-La. (BLD)

DAY 12 Thimphu

You start with a visit to the NationalMemorial Chorten with its finely executedwall paintings and statues. This provides aninsight into the Kingdom’s Buddhist Culture.On your return you drive past Tashi ChhoeDzong (“Fortress of the Glorious Religion”),a fortress-monastery erected in1641. Thisafternoon you visit the National Library,established in the1960s to conserve Bhutan’sliterary treasures, which form a significantpart of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. You thenvisit the Institute for Zorig Chusum, knownas the “Painting School”, where studentsspend six years training in13 traditional artsand crafts. You also visit the folk Heritageand National Textile Museums. (BLD)

DAY 13 Thimphu / Paro

After breakfast you drive up the Dochu-laPass, where you stop briefly to admire the108 Chorten (spiritual Stupas), Mani Wall(prayer slate covered stone wall) and prayerflags which decorate the highest point onthe road. If skies are clear you will be able to see many of the high peaks whichsurround the area including GangkarPuensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at7,497 metres. From here you return to Parowhere you visit the Paro Bazaar to witnessthe day-to-day life of the locals. (BLD)

DAY 14 Depart Paro

Following breakfast you are taken to theairport where your tour ends. (B)


& BHUTAN

17picturesque valley, bhutan

paro, bhutan

Nepal, Tibet & Bhutan Departs

Any day of the week as a private Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.

Times to visitBest: Mar to April & Sept to Oct.Shoulder: May & November.

Star rating3-star, 4-star or 5-star.

Flights & VisasFlight schedules& visa conditionsfor Tibet & Bhutan can change.Please contact us for further info.

memorial chorten, bhutan


On arrival in Delhi you are met and takento your hotel for the night.

DAY 2 MondayDelhi / Varanasi

Following breakfast you are taken to theairport for your flight to Varanasi (Cost ofthis flight is additional.) On arrival you aremet and taken on a tour of Sarnath whichsymbolises the birth of Buddhism withsculptures dating back to the 3rd CenturyBC. This evening you visit the Gangeswhere temples will be lit with oil-lampsand candles. This light, combined with the aromas of incense sticks, oil lamps andflowers filling the air, makes the experiencemagical as you watch hundreds of littlelamps float on to the Ganges as offeringsduring the Arti Ceremony (“collectiveprayer”). After this spiritual experience you return to your hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 3 TuesdayVaranasi / Khajuraho

You witness an incredible scene on yourearly morning boat ride, as thousands of pilgrims and other devotees immersethemselves in the holy water of the GangesRiver to pay their homage to the reveredsun god. This is followed by a late breakfastat your hotel before being taken to theairport for your flight to Khajuraho (Costof this flight is additional.) In the realm of architecture, Khajuraho holds a uniqueposition! The temples here were built

between 950 and1,050 AD by the ChandelaDynasty, who claims descent from theMoon God and a mortal, Hemavati, withwhom the god fell in love. After fresheningup at your hotel you have a comprehensivetour of the Eastern and Western Group of Temples containing some of the finestexamples of Chandela Art to be found. (B)

DAY 4 WednesdayKhajuraho / Agra

You start the day with a final visit to theKhajuraho Temples. Later you are driven toJhansi with a visit to Orchha enroute. Oncethe capital of its own state, Orchha is madeup of three joined palaces in the same styleas the palace in Udaipur. On arrival inJhansi you board the Shatabdi Express Trainto Agra. On arrival this evening you are metand taken to your hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 5 ThursdayAgra

Early today you visit what is one of theabsolute highlights of the tour: the TajMahal, built in memory of his belovedempress, Mumtaz Mahal, by Emperor Shah Jahan. This marble mausoleum is thegreatest gesture of love known to mankind.It is breathtakingly beautiful with manyprecious stones used in its inlays. Timed to correspond with the sunrise, you haveample time to explore this memorial.

Later in the day you visit the Agra Fort and Sikandra, a beautiful tomb built forthe Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great. (B)


DELHI, RAJASTHAN

the taj mahal, agra

Nepal

India

Khajuraho

Jodhpur Agra

Udaipur Varanasi

Jaipur

New Delhi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Varanasi & a Ganges’ Arti Ceremony.• Khajuraho & its unique architecture.• A tour of the beautiful Taj Mahal.• Agra & the Agra Fort.• The state of Rajasthan.• Jaipur, the “Pink City”.• Jodhpur, the “Blue City”.• Udaipur & City Palace Tour.• Old & New Delhi City Tour.

Dining Experiences• This tour includes breakfast daily, allowing you to do what you want andeat where you like in your free time.

• 11 superb Breakfasts are included.

18

12 days: gods & goldenTriangle

DAY 6 FridayAgra / Jaipur

Today you travel by road to Jaipur, theCapital of Rajasthan and often referred toas the “Pink City”. Enroute you visitFatehpur Sikri, also known as the“Deserted City” or the “Ghost City”. It was previously the capital of the MoghalEmperor Akbar. (B)

DAY 7 SaturdayJaipur

You undertake a comprehensive full daytour of Jaipur taking in the highlights this interesting city has to offer. Theyinclude the Hawa Mahal, or the “Palace ofWinds”, the Jantar Mantar (AstronomicalObservatory) and the ornately decoratedAmber Fort, located just outside of the city. This was the seat of power before theCity Palace was built, which is also visitedon your return to the city. (B)

DAY 8 SundayJaipur / Jodhpur

After breakfast you are driven to Jodhpur,also known as the “Blue City”. Jodhpur islocated on the edge of the Thar Desert.This afternoon your tour takes you to theMehrangarh Fort. Towering over the city, it contains a number of grand palaces, each of which is an impressive example ofarchitectural excellence. Before returning to the hotel you visit Jaswant Thada wherea number of cenotaphs erected in1899 areto be found. (B)

DAY 9 MondayJodhpur / Udaipur

After breakfast you are driven through the rugged, wooded hills of Rajasthan tothe Jain Temples of Ranakpur. Noted forthe grandiose scale of their architecture, the resident priests are still continuing theconstruction to this day.

After viewing the temples you continuingon to Udaipur, also known as the “LakeCity” because of its two most beautiful sites,the dream-like Jag Niwas (“Lake Palace”)and the Jag Mandir marble palaces, whichappear to rise from the blue waters of LakePichhola. (B)

DAY 10 TuesdayUdaipur

Today you undertake a morning excursionto the Eklingji and Nagda Temples, someof which date from the16th Century. In the afternoon you visit the famous CityPalace. It is actually a collection of palacesall surrounded by the Royal Palace walls,which stretch over a mile on the easternside of the lake. Following your tour of thepalace you undertake a short boat ride onthe lake. (B)

DAY 11 WednesdayUdaipur / Delhi

Following breakfast you are taken to theairport for your flight to Delhi. (Cost ofthis flight is additional.) On arrival you are met and taken to your Delhi hotel.

This afternoon you will undertake acomprehensive tour of Old and New Delhi in which you see India Gate, theHouses of Parliament, the Raj Ghat, theMemorial to Mahatma Gandhi, the RedFort and the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’slargest mosques.

Your also visit Qutab Minar, a1,500 yearold tower which is still standing. (B)

DAY 12 ThursdayDepart Delhi

Following breakfast you are collected fromyour hotel and transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Your tour comes toan end on arrival at the airport. (B)


& UTTAR PRADESH

19jodhpur, the “blue city”

the “lake palace”, udaipur

The Golden Triangle Departs* The 1st and 3rd Sunday of themonth as a Small Group Tour,with a minimum of two people.Alternatively and at additionalcost, any day of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.




On arrival in Delhi you are met and takento your hotel for a two-night stay.

DAY 2 MondayDelhi

After breakfast you undertake a sightseeingtour of Old Delhi during which you visitthe Red Fort; Raj Ghat, the memorial siteof the Mahatma Gandhi; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and ChandniChowk, the bustling and colourful marketof the old city. This afternoon you visit NewDelhi, including a visit to Qutab Minar, a72 metre high iron pillar which has survivedthe vagaries of weather for1,500 years. (B)

DAY 3 TuesdayDelhi / Mandawa

Today you are taken by road to Mandawawhere, in the afternoon you tour the fortsand palace around the town. Mandawa is a small town in the Shekhawati Region ofRajasthan. It has a unique medieval charmwith each home painted in the Shekhawatistyle, known for its rich use of colours. (B)

DAY 4 WednesdayMandawa – Bikaner

Today you are driven to Bikaner with anafternoon city tour on arrival. Bikaner is adesert fortified city on the ancient caravanroutes that linked Africa and West Asia.The fort, founded by Raja Rai Singh, isdistinguished by its numerous pavilionsand balconies. (B)

DAY 5 ThursdayBikaner / Jaisalmer

Following breakfast you depart for Jaisalmer.The drive takes most of the day. (B)

DAY 6 FridayJaisalmer

Today you undertake a half day sightseeingtour of Jaisalmer which is followed by asunset camel ride in the Sam Desert, ashort drive from the city. Jaiselmere, theCitadel City as it is often called, was builtin the12th Century from yellow sandstoneand lies in the silence of the Thar Desert.The forts, palaces and superbly carved JainTemples in and around Jaisalmer are allreminiscent of a glorious history. (B)

DAY 7 SaturdayJaisalmer / Jodhpur

You set off this morning for Jodhpur, alsoknown as the “Blue City”. In the afternoonyou tour the city, as well as the MehrangarhFort. Jodhpur was the home of the RathoreRulers and still has its high stone wall aroundthe city, built to protect it during their rule. Overlooking Jodhpur is the imposingMehrangarh Fort, founded in1459 AD.The fort is intricately adorned with longcarved panels and latticed windows,designed of exquisite Red Sandstone. (B)

DAY 8 SundayJodhpur / Udaipur

Your journey today takes you to Udaipur.Enroute you visit the Jain Temples inRanakpur. (B)


RAJASTHAN

“bollywood” billboard & the taj mahal

Nepal

India

Jodhpur

AgraMandawa

BikanerJaisalmer

Udaipur

JaipurPushkar

New Delhi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Full day Old & New Delhi City Tour.• Mandawa & Bikaner.• Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tour.• Jodhpur, the “Blue City”.• Udaipur & City Palace Tour.• Pushkar & Pushkar Lake Tour.• Jaipur, the “Pink City”.• Agra & the Agra Fort.• A tour of the beautiful Taj Mahal.



20

14 days: Rajasthan Heritage

DAY 9 MondayUdaipur

You start the day with a visit to the SriEklingji and Nagda Temples. In theafternoon you tour the “Lake City”, asUdaipur is also known, before undertakinga boat ride on Lake Pichola. Udaipur is acool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan and is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romanticor exotic tale to tell. The huge City Palace,towering over the Lake Pichola, is thelargest palace complex in Rajasthan. (B)

DAY 10 TuesdayUdaipur / Pushkar

After breakfast you are driven to Pushkarwhere in the afternoon, you undertake atour of the town and Pushkar Lake. Pushkaris a well known Hindu pilgrim centre andfamous for its camel and cattle fair. (B)

DAY 11 WednesdayPushkar / Jaipur

Today you travel to Jaipur with a visit toAjmer enroute. On arrival in Jaipur, the“Pink City”, your afternoon is at leisure. (B)

DAY 12 ThursdayJaipur

This morning you visit the Amber Fort, theformer capital of the Royal Jaipurs. Yourguide will elaborate on the history of thisarchitectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their former royal residents.

In the afternoon you visit the city. During the tour you see the Hawa Mahalor “Palace of the Winds”, a five-storiedstructure of pink sandstone overlooking the main street of the old city. You also visit the City Palace in the heart of the old city with its blend of Rajasthani andMughal architecture. (B)

DAY 13 FridayJaipur / Agra

Following breakfast you are driven to Agra with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri on theway. Fatehpur Sikri, today a ghost town,was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital.It was a veritable fairy tale city with itsruins still in a pristine condition. (B)

DAY 14 SaturdayAgra / Depart Delhi

Early this morning you undertake a sunrisevisit to the Taj Mahal, one of the mostphotographed monument in the world. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan, inmemory of his beloved Empress, MumtazMahal. This marble mausoleum is thegreatest gesture of love known to mankind.No matter how many pictures you haveseen of it, the Taj never lets you down!Besides its perfect symmetry, the inlay workof semi-precious stones into marble in thePietra Dura style is absolutely remarkable.

Later you are taken to visit Agra Fort beforebeing transferred to Delhi Airport. (B)


21taj umaid bhawan palace & hotel, jodhpur

local of jaipur, the “pink city”

Rajasthan Heritage Departs* The 2nd Sunday of the month as a Small Group Tour, with a minimum of two people. Alternatively and at additionalcost, any day of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.



traditional indian dance

DAY 1 SundayArrive Chennai

Your tour begins on arrival in Chennaiwhere you are met and taken to your hotelfor a two nights. Chennai is one of the fourmajor metropolitan cities of India and thecapital of Tamil Nadu. Stretched out on thecoastline where the blue waters of the Bayof Bengal mingle with golden sand beaches,its forts and palaces are like a bygone era.

DAY 2 MondayChennai

After breakfast you undertake a full day tourof Chennai or “Madras”, as it was known.Although it was the oldest settlement of theBritish in India, the only British remainsare the Fort of St George and the cathedral,which you visit during today’s tour. (B)

DAY 3 TuesdayChennai / Mahabalipuram

Today you are driven to the seaside villageof Mahabalipuram. A UNESCO WorldHeritage Site, it showcases antique frescoesand sculptural marvels. On the way youvisit Kanchipuram, known as the “GoldenCity of a Thousand Temples” and one ofIndia’s sacred cities. In the afternoon youtour more significant sites in the area. (B)

DAY 4 WednesdayMahabalipuram/ Pondicherry

Your day starts with a drive to Pondicherry.In the afternoon you undertake a tour ofPondicherry which includes a visit to theAurobindo Ashram. (B)

DAY 5 ThursdayPondicherry / Tanjore

Today is quite a long driving day but you do stop to visit Chidambaram andKumbakonam along the way. (B)

DAY 6 FridayTanjore

Following breakfast you undertake amorning tour of Tanjore which includes a stop at the Brihadiswara Temple. Theafternoon is at leisure to relax or to explorein your own time. (B)

DAY 7 SaturdayTanjore / Trichy

You start the day with a relatively shortdrive to Trichy. In the afternoon you visitthe town as well as the Ranganatha Templeat Srirangam. This beautifully sculptedtemple is the largest in India. (B)

DAY 8 SundayTrichy / Madurai

After breakfast you are taken to Maduraiby road. Known as the “Athens of theEast”, Madurai is more than 2,000 yearsold and is believed to have been built by the Pandyan King Kulasekara in the 6th Century BC.

In the afternoon you will visit theMeenakshi Temple. Designed in1560 itcovers an area of six hectares and has fourmain entrances, twelve towers and 985richly carved pillars. (B)


TAMIL NADU

local craft, india

Nepal

India

ThekkadyKumarakom Madurai

Cochin

ChennaiMahabalipuramPondicherryTanjore

Trichy

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Chennai City Tour.• Mahabalipuram, a World Heritage Site.• Pondicherry & the Aurobindo Ashram.• Tanjore & the Brihadiswara Temple.• Trichy & nearby Srirangam.• Madurai, the “Athens of the East”.• Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.• Houseboat Cruise on Kerala Backwaters.• Kumarakom & its famous Bird Park.• Cochin Sightseeing Tour.• Kathakali Dance Drama Performance.

Dining Experiences• This tour includes mainly breakfasts, allowing you to do what you want andeat where you like in your free time.

• 14 superb meals included in the tour: 13 Breakfasts &1Dinner.

22

14 days: South india Cultural

DAY 9 MondayMadurai / Thekkady

After breakfast you are driven to Thekkady.This will provide an insight into the life of the locals as you travel past rice paddiesand through several small villages. As youclimb up the escarpment to the village ofThekkady, famous for its spices, you noticea change in climate and vegetation. Kerala,the “World’s Spice Capital” was dependent,until recent times, on its spice trade. Traderscame from far and wide to purchase theseprecious commodities. This afternoon youtour a spice plantation. (B)

DAY 10 TuesdayThekkady / Houseboat

This morning you are taken to the PeriyarWildlife Sanctuary for a morning walkbefore being driven to Kumarakom. Onarrival you transfer to your houseboat for a relaxing backwaters cruise and overnightstay. Fringing the coast of Kerala andwinding far inland is a vast network oflagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. Floatingthrough these placid waters, passing palmfringed canals, lakes and villages you willobserve the locals going about their dailylives. You have your meals on board as youleisurely meander through this area. (BD)

DAY 11 WednesdayHouseboat / Kumarakom

Following breakfast you disembark and aretaken to your hotel. In the afternoon youvisit the Kumarakom Bird Park (B)

DAY 12 ThursdayKumarakom

You have the day completely at leisure. (B)

DAY 13 FridayKumarakom – Cochin

Today you are driven to Cochin where onarrival, you undertake a sightseeing tour.

Cochin, with its history and magnificentsetting on a cluster of islands and peninsulasis one of South India’s most fascinatingcities. It is a city with indelible marks ofChristianity, Islam, Hinduism and Jewishtraditions. Of special mention are the olderparts of the Fort Cochin area, which moreor less exist as they did1,000 years ago.

This part of the city reflects an unusual mixof medieval Portugal, Dutch and Englishcountry life grafted onto the beautifulMalabar Coast.

A special treat awaits this evening whenyou witness the strength and vigour ofKathakali dramatic dance. The stylisedgestures, elaborate make-up, masks andsplendid costumes of the all-male dancers,recreates an incomparable sense ofpageantry. (B)

DAY 14 SaturdayDepart Cochin

Following breakfast you are collected fromyour hotel and transferred to the airportwhere your tour comes to an end. (B)


& KERALA

23meenakshi temples, madurai

pristine backwaters, kerala

South India CulturalDeparts* The 4th Sunday of the month as a Small Group Tour, with a minimum of two people. Alternatively and at additionalcost, any day of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.

Time to visitBest: December to April.


traditional indian drama

DAY 1 MondayArrive Chennai / Mahabalipuram

Your tour begins on arrival in Chennaiwhere you are met and driven to your hotelin Mahabalipuram for a two-night stay.

DAY 2 TuesdayMahabalipuram

This morning you tour Mahabalipuram. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, itshowcases antique sculptural marvels andfrescoes. Your afternoon is at leisure. (B)

DAY 3 WednesdayMahabalipuram / Chennai

After a leisurely breakfast you are taken by road to Chennai or “Madras”, as it usedto be known. Although it was the oldestsettlement of the British in India, the onlyremnants of this period are the cathedraland the Fort of St George. Chennai is oneof the four major metropolitan cities ofIndia and is the capital of Tamil Nadu.Stretched out on the coastline where theblue waters of the Bay of Bengal minglewith golden sand beaches, its forts andpalaces remind one of a bygone era. Thisafternoon you undertake a city tour. (B)

DAY 4 ThursdayChennai / Mysore

This morning you are taken to the railwaystation to board the Shatabdi Express boundfor Mysore. On arrival early this afternoonyou are met and taken to your hotel. Theremainder of the afternoon is at leisure. (B)

DAY 5 FridayMysore

Today’s full day tour takes you toSrirangapatnam, as well as Mysore.Srirangapatnam is constructed mainly of wood with the murals on the outer wallsdepicting scenes from Tipu’s wars, whilethe interior walls are ornately painted withabstract designs and floral motifs.

Mysore is famous for its silk, sandalwoodand incense and is steeped in history. MysorePalace, built in Indo-Saracenic style, is oneof India’s largest and most brilliant palaces.It is a kaleidoscope of stained glass, mirror,gilt and colour with beautifully carvedwooden doors and mosaic floors. (B)


TAMIL NADU

mahabalipuram, a unesco world heritage site

Nepal

India

MysoreBangalore Chennai

MahabalipuramOoty Coonoor

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Mahabalipuram, a World Heritage Site.• Chennai City Tour.• The Shatabdi Express Train.• Mysore, famous for silk & sandalwood.• The beautiful Mysore Palace.• Srirangapatnam, made mainly of wood.• Ooty, a picturesque mountain village.• The ‘Toy Train’ to Coonoor.• Coonoor, a popular hill resort town.• Bangalore & Cubbon Park Gardens.• The Mughal-style Tipu’s Palace & Fort.



24

9 days: South India Highlights

street markets, mysore

DAY 6 SaturdayMysore / Ooty

Following breakfast you are driven to Ooty. This afternoon you undertake acomprehensive tour of the area.

Ooty is a picturesque town nestling in anamphitheatre created by four majestic hillswhich are part of the Nilgiri Ranges, themeeting points for the Western and theEastern Ghats. The name Nilgiri or the“Blue Mountains” may have been derivedfrom when the funnel-shaped lavender-blue flowers blossom. When this occurs thepicturesque mountain range is covered withthe colour of the blue lavender, making theentire mountain appear a beautiful blue. (B)

DAY 7 SundayOoty – Coonoor

This morning you are taken to Ooty TrainStation where, subject to its operation, youboard the Toy Train to Coonoor. On arrival you undertake a tour of the areabefore being driven back to Ooty by road.

Coonoor, situated at an altitude of 610metres, is a small town with an equableclimate that has made it popular as a hillresort in its own right.

The main attraction is the Sim’s Park, asmall well-maintained botanical gardenthat has several varieties of plants not to be found in any other hilly areas of thisparticular part of India. (B)

DAY 8 MondayOoty / Bangalore

Your journey today takes you to Bangalore,where in the afternoon you are taken on asightseeing tour. You also visit the Lal Baghand Cubbon Park Gardens. The name LalBagh was given to these gardens because of the wonderful red roses which bloom all year round. The final visit is to Tipu’sPalace and Fort. The architecture andlayout of this palace is in the Mughal-styleand provides an insight into a past era. (B)

DAY 9 TuesdayDepart Bangalore

After breakfast you are met and transferredto the airport where your tour ends. (B)


& KARNATAKA

25dance & drama performers, south india

gargoyle, fort of st george bangalore palace

South India Highlights Departs* The 2nd and 4th Monday of themonth as a Small Group Tour,with a minimum of two people. Alternatively and at additionalcost, any day of the week as aprivate Tailor-made Tour, withprivate guides and vehicles.



hindu temple, chennai

DAY 1 Arrive Raipur / Kanha Reserve

On arrival at Raipur Airport this morningyou are met and driven to your lodgelocated near the Kanha Tiger Reserve. Youhave two nights here. One of the largestNational Parks in India, Kanha offers thebest chance of seeing tiger in the wild. Withits plateaus, hills and grasslands, it is alsoone of the country’s most scenic parks. (D)

DAY 2 Kanha Tiger Reserve

Both in the morning and afternoon youundertake safaris to track tiger. Whilelooking for these elusive cats, you shouldalso see a selection of other animals, birdsand plants. During the heat of the day youhave the opportunity to relax. (BLD)

DAY 3 Kanha Tiger Reserve / Bandhavgarh National Park

Following a final game drive and breakfastyou are taken by road to your lodgeconveniently located near the BandhavgarhNational Park for a another fabulous two-night wildlife encounter. BandhavgarhNational Park has been a centre of humanactivity for 2,000 years and previouslybelonged to the Maharaja of Rewa. It isfamous for its tigers but it also has a widevariety of other game. (BLD)

DAY 4 Bandhavgarh National Park

During your stay at Bandhavgarh NationalPark you undertake morning and eveningsafaris to track tiger. (BLD)


MAHARASHTRA, MADHYA PRADESH

a watchful tiger, india

Nepal

India

Raipur

Khajuraho

Kanha NPBandhavgarh NP

Varanasi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Two of India’s best Tiger Reserves.• Two-night stay at Kanha Tiger Reserve.• Two-night stay at Bandhavgarh NP.• Morning & evening Jeep Safaris.• A Sound & Light Show at Khajuraho.• Khajuraho’s Western Group of Temples.• Arti Ceremony, Ganges River, Varanasi.• A morning Ganges River Cruise.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes most but not all meals, allowing you to do what you want and eat where you likein your free time.


26

8 days: wildlife & temples

a chital deer stag, india

DAY 5 Bandhavgarh / Khajuraho

After your final game drive you are drivento Khajuraho for a two-night stay. (B)

DAY 6 Khajuraho

In the realm of architecture, Khajurahoholds a unique position! The temples herewere built between 950 and1,050 AD bythe Chandela Dynasty, who claims descentfrom the Moon God and a mortal,Hemavati, with whom the God fell in love.

This morning you have a comprehensivetour of the Western Group of Templesfeaturing some of the finest examples ofChandela Art to be found. This evening (if operating) you attend a spectacularSound & Light Show at the temples! (BL)

DAY 7 Khajuraho / Varanasi

After a morning at leisure you are taken to the airport for your flight to Varanasi.Located on the west side of the HolyGanges, it has been the centre of theHindu Religion, learning and civilisationfor over 3,000 years, thus making it one of the oldest living cities in India.

This afternoon you have time to visit a silk emporium and see fine hand weavingtaking place. In the evening you are takenby bicycle rickshaws through the colourful,chaotic, vibrant market area to reach thebanks of the Ganges where the temples will be lit with oil-lamps and candles. Thislight, combined with the aromas of incense

sticks, oil lamps and flowers filling the air,makes the experience magical as you watchhundreds of little lamps float out onto theGanges River as offerings during the ArtiCeremony (“collective prayer”). After thisspiritual experience you return to yourhotel for the night. (BD)

DAY 8 Depart Varanasi

You will witness an incredible scene onyour early morning boat ride, as thousandsof pilgrims and other devotees immersethemselves in the holy water of the GangesRiver to pay their homage to the reveredSun God. This is followed by a latebreakfast at your hotel before being takento the airport where your tour ends. (B)


& UTTAR PRADESH

27the ganges river, varanasi

Wildlife & TemplesDeparts




a beautiful tiger, indiathe western group of temples, khajuraho

DAY 1 Arrive Delhi

Your tour starts on arrival into Delhi,where you are met and taken to your hotelfor tonight.

DAY 2 Delhi / Corbett NP

Following breakfast you are collected from the hotel and driven by road to theCorbett National Park in the foothills ofthe Himalaya Mountains. On arrival atyour lodge in the early afternoon, youcheck in for an exciting three-night stay.You have the remainder of the day to relax and explore our surroundings. (BD)

DAY 3 Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park was India’s firstnational park and tiger reserve, founded in1936. It has a diverse topography withsavannah grasslands, deep gorges, rollinghills and thick forest cover. The parkprovides an opportunity to see a largevariety of animals, which includes theelusive Tiger. There are also a substantialnumber of bird species to be found, over600. As you drive through the reserve inyour safari vehicles you may be surprised to hear the crowing of roosters and seethem running around until you realise that these are the wild ancestors of thecommon chicken. Chital Deer and WildBoar are also relatively common.

You undertake an early morning and anafternoon safari into the park to spot thevarious live treasures the park holds. (BLD)

DAY 4 Corbett National Park

You again undertake an early morning anda late afternoon safari into Corbett NationalPark. (BLD)

DAY 5 Corbett NP / Haridwar

This morning you are driven to Haridwar,one of India’s most spiritual places, locatedon the Ganges River where it leaves theHimalaya Mountain Range. On arrival inthe afternoon you check into your hotel for a two-night experience.

In the evening you will be taken to theGanges River to witness the Arti Ritualwhich has been taking place here forthousands of years. (BD)

DAY 6 Haridwar

Today you are taken on a full day tour ofHaridwar and Rishikesh. Haridwar is oneof the holiest cities in India for Hindupilgrims and consequently has manytemples and places of worship. Rishikesh,the “Yoga Capital of the World”, is located 24 kilometres upstream on the banks of the Ganges. Its bazaars and narrow lanesare vibrant with shops selling religiousartifacts and as the evening descends theringing of temple bells fills the air. Yourevening is at leisure to further soak up theatmosphere of this spiritual place. (BD)

DAY 7 Haridwar / Chandigarh

You are driven to Chandigarh in the LowerHimalayas. This evening you are taken tothe Rock Gardens and Pinjore. (BD)


DELHI, UTTAR PRADESH, UTTARANCHAL,

a holy man, haridwar

Nepal

India

Corbett NP

Amritsar

HaridwarShimla

Dharamasala

New Delhi

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Three nights at Corbett National Park.• Morning & evening Tiger Safaris.• Arti Ritual, Ganges River, Haridwar.• Haridwar City Tour.• Visit to Rishikesh, India’s Yoga Capital.• Spectacular Himalaya Scenery.• Shimla & Surroundings Tour.• Dharamsala & McLeodganji Tour.• A view of Tsuglagkhang Complex, the official residence of the Dalai Lama.

• Amritsar City Tour.• Visit to the Golden Temple, Amritsar.• Wagah Border Crossing Excursion.• The Shatabdi Express Train to Delhi.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes many but not all meals, allowing you to do what you want and eat where you likein your free time.


28

14 days: Himalayas & The North

DAY 8 Chandigarh / Shimla

Following breakfast you are driven throughspectacular scenery to Shimla, the OldSummer Capital of India in Colonial times.On arrival in the afternoon you have theremainder of the day at leisure to relax. (B)

DAY 9 Shimla

This morning you are taken on a drive tothe Naldhera Region. Your drive includes a stop at the Pine and Oak Woods atMashobra and the opportunity toexperience spectacular views of theHimalaya Mountain Range from Kufri.You return to Shimla before lunch time.

In the afternoon you undertake a half daytour of Shimla which includes the Mall (an old English-style village with numerousshops selling all sorts of wares) and theJakhu Temple, which sits atop Jakhu Hill.This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman,also known as the “Monkey God”. Otherplaces of interest include the State Museumand St Michael’s Cathedral. (B)

DAY 10 Shimla / Dharamsala

Your drive today takes you through theHimalayas to the town of Dharamsala.Dharamsala is close to the home of theexiled Dalai Lama in McLeodganji or“Upper Dharamsala”, which is the town’salternative name. Dharamsala has largelycome to be associated with the TibetanGovernment in exile. On arrival you checkinto your hotel for two nights. (BD)

DAY 11 DharamsalaToday you are taken on a full day tour ofDharamsala and McLeodganji. Included in the tour is a visit to the Kangra ArtMuseum. This museum displays artifactsthat date back to the 5th Century and isalso famous for its miniature paintings.

McLeodganji bears a distinct ambiancewith Tibetan children running in thestreets along with monks in their robes.You will be taken on a short walk to viewthe Tsuglagkhang Complex which housesthe official residence of the Dalai Lama.You then have some free time to explore thetown and its shops selling Tibetan wares.Following the visit you are driven back toyour hotel in Dharamsala for tonight. (BD)

DAY 12 Dharamsala / AmritsarYou continue your drive through themountains to the spiritually significanttown of Amritsar. On arrival you have theremainder of the afternoon at leisure. (BD)

DAY 13 Amritsar / DelhiAmritsar was originally built around theGolden Temple and the Amrit SarovarLake from which it derives its name. Thecomplex is surrounded by a fortified wallwith eighteen gates. The temple consists ofthree stories, the lower in white marble andthe upper two in pure gold leaf. The AkalTakht, located next to The Golden Temple,is the seat of the religious governing bodyof the Sikhs. This morning you are takenon an escorted city tour of Amritsarincluding a visit to the Golden Temple.

In the afternoon you undertake a guidedtour to the Wagah Border Crossing which forms a crossing between India andPakistan. It is famous for its Changing ofthe Guards and Flag Lowering Ceremonywhich is accomplished with great pompand ceremony by the security forces ofboth countries each morning and evening.

Later you are taken to Amritsar RailwayStation, where you board the ShatabdiExpress Train to Delhi. On arrival in Delhilate this evening you are met and taken toyour hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 14 Depart Delhi

Your tour comes to an end this morning asyou check out of your hotel. (B)


HIMACHAL PRADESH & PUNJAB

29

amrit sarovar lake, amritsar

Himalayas & the North Departs


Times to visitBest: Nov & March to April.Shoulder: Dec to Feb but the



shimla from a distance

DAY 1 Arrive DelhiOn arrival in Delhi you are met and takento your hotel for tonight.

DAY 2 Delhi / AmritsarThis morning you are taken to New DelhiRailway Station where you are assisted inboarding the Shatabdi Express to Amritsar.On arrival in Amritsar you are met andtaken to your hotel for an intriguing three-night stay. You have the afternoon at leisureto explore your surroundings or to relax inthe hotel. This evening you are taken toexperience the beauty and wonder of theGolden Temple superbly lit up at night. (B)

DAY 3 AmritsarAmritsar is built around the Golden Templeand the Amrit Sarovar Lake from which itderives its name. The complex is surroundedby a fortified wall with eighteen gates. Thetemple consists of three stories, the lower in white marble and the upper two in puregold leaf. The Akal Takht, located next to The Golden Temple, is the seat of thereligious governing body of the Sikhs.

This morning you are taken on a City Tourof Amritsar, including a visit to the GoldenTemple. In the afternoon you undertake aguided tour to the Wagah Border Crossing,which forms a crossing between India andPakistan. Famous for its Changing of theGuards and Flag Lowering Ceremonywhich is accomplished with great pompand ceremony by the border security forcesof both countries each morning and eachevening. (B)

DAY 4 Amritsar / Delhi

You have the morning at leisure to furtherexplore Amritsar. This afternoon you aretaken back to Amritsar Railway Stationwhere you are assisted to board the ShatabdiExpress Train to Delhi. On arrival in Delhilate this evening you are met and taken toyour hotel for the night. (B)

DAY 5 Depart Delhi

Your tour comes to an end this morning asyou check out of your hotel. (B)

It is possible to fly to Amritsar from Delhithus making a return flight or a combinedflight one way and the train in the otherdirection option possible. Flights are anadditional cost.


DELHI & AMRITSAR

the golden temple, amritsar

India

Punjab

Delhi

Amritsar

New Delhi

The Golden Temple Departs


Time to visitBest: October to March.


Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Shatabdi Express Train to Amritsar.• An intriguing 3-night stay in Amritsar.• Amritsar City & Golden Temple Tour.• Wagah Border Crossing Excursion.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes breakfast daily, allowing you to do what you want and eat where you like in your free time.


30

5 days: the golden Temple

DAY 1 Arrive Delhi

On arrival into Delhi you are met andtaken to your hotel for tonight.

DAY 2 Delhi / Shimla

This morning you are taken to New DelhiRailway Station where you are assisted toboard the Shatabdi Express to Kalka. Hereyou transfer to the narrow gauge hill train (if operating), which takes you throughspectacular scenery as you climb theHimalayas to Shimla. On arrival in Shimlayou are met and taken to your hotel for arefreshing four nights. Your afternoon is atleisure to explore your surroundings. (B)

DAY 3 Shimla

After breakfast you are taken on a drive tothe Naldhera Region. This includes a stop atthe Pine and Oak Woods at Mashobra andthe opportunity to experience spectacularviews of the Himalaya Mountain Rangefrom Kufri. You return to Shimla beforelunch. In the afternoon you undertake a halfday tour of Shimla, which includes the Mall(an old English style village with numerousshops selling all sorts of wares) and theJakhu Temple, which sits atop Jakhu Hill.This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman,also known as the “Monkey God”. Otherplaces of interest include the State Museumand St Michael’s Cathedral. (B)

DAY 4 Shimla

You have today at leisure to further explore.You may wish to play an optional round ofgolf at Naldhera, located near Shimla. (B)

DAY 5 Shimla

You have another day at leisure to relax andsoak up Shimla’s clear mountain air! (B)

DAY 6 Shimla / Delhi

This morning you are driven to Kalka,where you connect with the ShatabdiExpress to New Delhi. On arrival you aremet and taken to your hotel for tonight. (B)

DAY 7 Depart Delhi

Your tour comes to an end this morning as you check out of your hotel. (B)

It is possible to fly to Shimla from Delhi,thus making a return flight or a combinedflight one way and the train in the otherdirection. Flights are an additional cost.


DELHI & HIMACHAL PRADESH

31

India

Uttaranchal

Uttar Pradesh

Punjab

HimachalPradesh

Haryana

Delhi

Shimla

New Delhi

typical buildings, shimla

Shimla & the HimalayasDeparts


Times to visitBest: March to May.Shoulder: October to Feb but the



the clear himalayan air

7 days: Shimla & The Himalayas

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Shatabdi Express Train, Delhi to Kalka.• Narrow Gauge Rail, Kalka to Shimla.• A relaxing 4-night stay in Shimla.• Excursion to the Naldhera Region.• Spectacular views of the Himalayas.• Shimla Tour, including Jakhu Temple.• An optional Round of Golf at Naldhera.• Shimla’s clear, clean mountain air!



DAY 1 Arrive Kolkata

On arrival in Kolkata, once the capital ofIndia, you are met and taken to your hotelfor a fabulous three-night stay.

DAY 2 Kolkata

Following breakfast you are taken on a fullday city tour of Kolkata. The tour includesa visit to the Victoria Memorial, built inmemory of Queen Victoria. It is one ofKolkata’s most fascinating landmarks, made of white marble with a harmoniousblend of European and Mughalarchitectural styles.

You also visit the Marble Palace, built byone of Bengal’s richest landlords. The name Marble Palace was probably given toit due to the fact the entire palace was builtusing an astounding126 varieties of marbleprocured from various parts of India.Another important landmark visited is thecantilever bridge over the Hooghly River.In the evening you return to the HooghlyRiver for a sunset cruise on the river. (BL)

DAY 3 Kolkata

You have the full day at leisure to relax orfurther explore this interesting city. (B)

DAY 4 Kolkata / Darjeeling

Today you are taken to the airport for yourflight to Bagdogra, where you are met andtaken by road to your hotel located inDarjeeling, the “Tea Capital”, for a fantasticfour-night stay. You have the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to relax. (B)

DAY 5 Darjeeling

Early this morning you are taken to TigerHill to view the magnificent sunrise overthe Himalaya Mountains. Followingbreakfast you undertake a half day city tourof Darjeeling and surroundings. This tourincludes a trip on the ‘Toy Train’ to Ghoom.This hillock is dominated by the famousYiga Choeling Monastery. The monasterycontains many ancient palm leaf and papermanuscripts in Tibetan script. The Museumof Natural History has a collection ofHimalaya animals, reptiles, birds andinsects and the Llyod Botanic Gardens has a marvellous collection of alpine flora andorchids. You also visit the Padmaja NaiduHimalaya Zoological Park, the only centrein India for the breeding of the rare snowleopard. Other attractions are the UssurianTiger and the Himalaya Black Bear. (BL)

DAY 6 Darjeeling

Today is entirely at leisure in Darjeeling. (B)

DAY 7 Darjeeling

Renowned for its tea, Darjeeling is knownthe world over. This morning you visit aworking tea estate for a tour to see how this renowned product is grown. (B)

DAY 8 Darjeeling / Depart Bagdogra

After breakfast you are collected from your hotel and driven to Bagdogra Airportwhere your tour ends. There are convenientflights from here to Delhi, Kolkata andother airports in North East India. (B)


WEST BENGAL & SIKKIM

tea plantation, darjeeling

India

West Bengal

Sikkim

West Bengal

Darjeeling

Bagdogra

Kolkata

Kolkata & Darjeeling Departs


Time to visitBest: October to March.

Star rating3-star & 4-star only.

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• A fabulous 3-night stay in Kolkata.• Full day Kolkata City Tour.• Hooghly River Sunset Cruise.• A fantastic 4-night stay in Darjeeling.• Early morning Tiger Hill Excursion.• Sunrise over the Himalaya Mountains.• Darjeeling & Surrounding City Tour.• The ‘Toy Train’, Darjeeling to Ghoom.• The Himalaya Zoological Park.• Tour of a Darjeeling Tea Estate.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes mainly breakfasts, allowing you to do what you want and eat where you like in your free time.

• 9 superb meals are included in the tour:7 Breakfasts & 2 Lunches.

32

8 days: Kolkata & Darjeeling

India’s premier beach destination has moreto it than just sea and sand. The kilometresof palm-fringed white sand beaches, offeringthe opportunity to laze on the sand or take a dip in the warm waters is a majorattraction for some but for those seekingmore, Goa provides it.

You could take a ride along its roads as they wind through beautiful villages withwhitewashed churches and exuberantlycoloured temples. Visit some of the nightclubs and pubs. Have a refreshing coconutdrink from a local vendor or experiencegourmet options with the amazing array of exotic cuisine available.

Goa has so much more to offer, regardless of whether you are travelling on a budget or on a luxury 5-star Tailor-made Tour.

DAY 1 Arrive Goa

On arrival in Goa you are met and takento your beachside resort for an exotic four-night stay.

DAY 2 Goa

After breakfast you are taken on an OldGoa Historical Tour. Old Goa is now aUNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and has some magnificent PortugueseCathedrals. The most famous of these isthe Basilica of Bom Jesus, built in the16th

Century. This church houses the body of St Francis Xavier in an ornate silver casket.

You also visit Fort Aguada, built in1612 bythe Portuguese and one of the main bastionsat the entrance into the Mandovi River.

After the tour you return to your resort torelax and enjoy your surroundings. (B)

DAY 3 Goa

Today is entirely at leisure. You can samplethe local spice shops and restaurants, have acool drink at the bar or soak up the sun. (B)

DAY 4 Goa

You have another day at leisure to enjoy themany pleasures and hidden secrets whichGoa has to offer. (B)

DAY 5 Depart Goa

Following breakfast you check out of yourhotel and are taken to the airport whereyour tour ends. It is possible to add extranights at additional cost. (B)


GOA

33

India

Goa

palm-fringed beach, goa

Exotic Goa Departs


Time to visitBest: October to April.

Star rating3-star, 4-star & 5-star.

5 days: Exotic Goa

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• An exotic 4-night beach stay in Goa.• Old Goa Historical Tour.• The16th Century Basilica of Bom Jesus.• Fort Aguada, built in1612.• Ample time at leisure to explore Goa.




On arrival at Kathmandu airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to the culture of Nepal with a CulturalDinner &Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has theair of a medieval city; a maze of narrowstreets, wooden temples and beautifullydecorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of janglingcymbals and the markets are a rich blend of colours and aromas. Only in the1950swas Nepal opened up to visitors and today the contrast between 21st Centurytechnology and traditional lifestyles help to make Kathmandu one of the world’smost fascinating cities. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on asightseeing tour of Kathmandu visitingamongst others the Temple of Kumari, the residence of the living Goddess with its carved wooden balconies and windowsand the fabulous Buddhist Stupa ofSwayambhunath, which is said to be over 2,000 years old.

In the afternoon you visit Patan City or“the City of Fine Arts”, as it is also known.Here you visit Patan Durbar Square,situated in the heart of the city andboasting many Hindu Temples andBuddhist Monuments. It consists of threemain chowks or courtyards, the central

Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and KeshavChowk. With the assistance of your guide,you will explore this interesting area datingback many hundreds of years. (BLD)

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Chitwan NPFollowing breakfast you are taken by roadto Bharatpur. On arrival the naturalistguides meet you and assist in crossing theriver by boat. You are then taken to yourjungle lodge located in the heart of theRoyal Chitwan National Park. This park ishome to among others, the One-hornedRhinoceros, Sloth Bear, Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, various deers, monkeys andcrocodiles as well as a selection of birds.

In the late afternoon you undertake yourfirst jungle activity. (BLD)

DAY 4 Chitwan National ParkEarly today you are taken into the junglefor a safari on elephant back, penetratingthrough dense grasslands to view thewildlife. This grass, commonly known aselephant grass, grows to a height of sixmetres and is the favourite habitat of therhinoceros and other mammals. Later youare taken to the elephant stables where thenaturalist guides provide an explanationabout the habits of the elephants.

In the afternoon you may relax around the camp or undertake a jungle safari inLandrovers followed by a dugout canoe ride down the Narayani River. Here there is a good chance of seeing the Gharial andMugger Crocodiles, fresh water dolphins,otters and varieties of water birds. (BLD)


NEPAL

stag deer, wildlife sanctuary, nepal

Nepal

India

Royal Chitwan

NP

Pokhara

NagarkotLumbini

Tansen Kathmandu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• 4 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu.• Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath.• Patan City,“the City of Fine Arts”.• 2-night stay in Royal Chitwan NP.• Jungle Safari on Elephant back.• Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha.• Tansen, in the Mid-western Region.• Pokhara and its serene Peace Stupa.• Boat ride on beautiful Lake Phewa.• Nagarkot, with its Himalayas’ Views.• Sunrise over Mount Everest!• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• The beautiful Natyapola Temple.• A flight around Mount Everest.• Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist Stupa.• Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu Temple.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes all meals, as there are very few alternativedining options available in the destinations visited.

• 32 superb meals included in the tour: 11Breakfasts,10 Lunches &11Dinners.

34

12 days: the best of Nepal

DAY 5 Chitwan NP / Lumbini

This morning you are driven to Lumbini,the birth place of Lord Buddha. On arrivalyou are taken to explore the area. (BLD)

DAY 6 Lumbini / Tansen

Today you set out for Tansen, a Newar hilltown in the mid-western region. In the lateafternoon you undertake a walk aroundShrinagar Hill, which can offer spectacularviews of the surrounding mountains. (BLD)

DAY 7 Tansen / Pokhara

After breakfast you are driven to Pokhara.Here your afternoon is at leisure. (BLD)

DAY 8 Pokhara

This morning you are taken on a tour ofPokhara, which includes a visit to the PeaceStupa. In the afternoon you undertake aboat ride on Lake Phewa. (BLD)

DAY 9 Pokhara / Nagarkot

This morning you are taken to the airport where you board your flight toKathmandu. On arrival you are met andtaken to your hotel in Nagarkot. Nagarkotis a small hill station located to the east of Kathmandu. A good panoramic view of the major peaks of the Eastern NepalHimalayas, including Mt Everest, can beseen from here. (BLD)


You rise early to watch the sunrise over MtEverest before returning to your hotel. Lateryou are taken to your hotel in Kathmandu.

In the afternoon you are taken toBhaktapur City or the “City of Devotees”,as it is also known. It is shaped like a conchshell and was the setting for the majorHollywood production The Little Buddha.Pottery and weavings are its industries.

Here you also visit other architecturalshowpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery,Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows,Bastille Temple and the Bell of BarkingDogs. You visit Natyapola Temple beforereturning to your hotel for the night. (BLD)

DAY 11 Kathmandu

This morning you have the opportunity totake a flight around Mt Everest.

After breakfast you are taken to Boudhanath,which is possibly the world’s largest BuddhistStupa and a site of great veneration forBuddhists. Around the stupa a number ofmonasteries of the different sects of TibetanBuddhism have been established whichinclude one that houses an enormous,splendidly adorned, seated statue of MaitreyaBuddha. You also visit Pashupatinath, themost sacred of Hindu Temples in Nepal andsituated on the banks of the Bagmati River.The remainder of your day is at leisure tofurther explore Kathmandu. (BLD)

DAY 12 Depart Kathmandu

This morning is at leisure. Later today you are taken to Kathmandu Airport. (B)


35picturesque lake phewa, nepal

buddhist stupa, nepal

The Best of Nepal Departs


Times to visitBest: March to May&

September to November.

Star rating3-star & 4-star only.

mountain village, nepal


On arrival at Kathmandu Airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to the culture of Nepal with a CulturalDinner & Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu, the Capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal has the air of a medieval city; a maze of narrow streets,wooden temples and beautifully decoratedpalaces. In the background there is oftenthe sound of jangling cymbals. The marketsare a rich blend of colours and aromas.Only in the1950s was Nepal opened tovisitors and today the contrast between21st Century technology and tradition helpmake Kathmandu a fascinating city. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on a tour of Kathmandu visiting among others, theTemple of Kumari, the residence of theLiving Goddess, with its carved woodenbalconies and windows. You also visit the Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath, which is said to be over 2,000 years old.

In the afternoon you visit Patan City or“the City of Fine Arts”, as it is known. Hereyou visit Patan Durbar Square in the heartof the city, boasting many Hindu Templesand Buddhist Monuments. It consists ofthree main chowks or courtyards, the centralMul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and KeshavChowk. With the assistance of your guide,you will explore this historic area. (BLD)


NEPAL

patan durbar square, nepal (interior)

Nepal

India

Royal Chitwan NP

PokharaKathmandu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• 4 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu.• Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath.• Patan City,“the City of Fine Arts”.• 2-night stay in Royal Chitwan NP.• Jungle Safari on Elephant back.• Pokhara and its serene Peace Stupa.• Boat ride on beautiful Lake Phewa.• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• A flight around Mount Everest.• Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist Stupa.• Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu Temple.



36

9 days: Nepal Highlights

eyes of buddha on stupa, nepal

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Chitwan NP

This morning you are driven to Bharatpur.On arrival your naturalist guide assists youcrossing the river by boat. You are then takento your jungle lodge located in the RoyalChitwan National Park. This park is hometo among others, One-horned Rhinoceros,Sloth Bear, Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard,deers, monkeys, crocodiles, as well as aselection of birds. In the late afternoon youundertake your first jungle activity. (BLD)

DAY 4 Chitwan National Park

Early today you are taken into the junglefor a safari on elephant back, penetratingthrough dense grasslands to view wildlife.This grass, commonly known as elephantgrass, grows to a height of six metres and is the favourite habitat of the rhinoceros andother mammals. Later you are taken to theelephant stables where the naturalist guidesprovide an explanation about their habits.

After lunch you may relax around the campor undertake a Landrover safari, followed bya dugout canoe ride on the Narayani River.Here there is a good chance of seeingcrocodiles, dolphins and otters. (BLD)

DAY 5 Chitwan NP / Pokhara

This morning you are driven to Pokhara.Your afternoon it at leisure there. (BLD)

DAY 6 Pokhara

This morning you tour Pokhara, includinga visit to the Peace Stupa. After lunch youtake a boat ride on Lake Phewa. (BLD)

DAY 7 Pokhara / Kathmandu

This morning you are taken to the airportwhere you board your flight to Kathmandu.On arrival in Kathmandu you are met andtaken to your centrally located hotel.

This afternoon you are taken to BhaktapurCity or the “City of Devotees”, as it is alsocalled. It is shaped like a conch shell andwas the setting for the major Hollywoodproduction The Little Buddha. Pottery andweavings are its traditional industries. (BLD)

DAY 8 Kathmandu

Early this morning you have theopportunity to undertake a flight aroundMt Everest. After breakfast you are taken toBoudhanath, which is possibly the world’s

largest Buddhist Stupa and a site of greatveneration for Buddhists. Around the stupa a number of monasteries of thedifferent sects of Tibetan Buddhism havebeen established which include one thathouses an enormous, splendidly adorned,seated statue of Maitreya Buddha. You alsovisit Pashupatinath, the most sacred ofHindu Temples in Nepal and situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River.

You have the remainder of the day atleisure to further explore Kathmandu or to simply relax. (BLD)


This morning is at leisure until you are takento the airport for your onward flight. (B)


37sunrise over the himalayas, nepal

patan temples, nepal

Nepal Highlights Departs


Times to visitBest: March to May &




On arrival at Kathmandu airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to the culture of Nepal with a CulturalDinner & Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu, the Capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal has the air of a medieval city; a maze of narrow streets,wooden temples and beautiful palaces. Inthe background there is often the sound ofjangling cymbals. The markets are a richblend of colours and aromas. Only in the1950s was Nepal opened up visitors andtoday the contrast between 21st Centurytechnology and tradition help to makeKathmandu a most fascinating city. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on a sightseeingtour of Kathmandu visiting the Temple ofKumari, the residence of the living Goddesswith its carved wooden balconies andwindows and the fabulous Buddhist Stupa ofSwayambhunath, said to be 2,000 years old.

This afternoon you visit Patan City or “theCity of Fine Arts”, as it is known. Here youvisit Patan Durbar Square situated in theheart of the city and full of Hindu Templesand Buddhist monuments. It consists of three main chowks or courtyards, thecentral Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk andKeshav Chowk. With the assistance of yourguide you will explore this interesting areadating back many hundreds of years. (BLD)


NEPAL

the mighty himalayas, nepal

Nepal

India

Nagarkot

Kathmandu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• 4 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu.• Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath.• Patan City,“the City of Fine Arts”.• Nagarkot, with its Himalayas’ Views.• Sunrise over Mount Everest!• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• The beautiful Natyapola Temple.• A flight around Mount Everest.• Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist Stupa.• Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu Temple.



38

6 days: Nepal Express

mountain village, nepal

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Nagarkot



You rise early today to watch the sunriseover Mt Everest before returning to yourhotel for breakfast. Following breakfast you are taken to your hotel in Kathmandu.

This afternoon you are taken to BhaktapurCity or the “City of Devotees”, as it is called.

Bhaktapur City is shaped like a conch shell and was the setting for the majorHollywood production The Little Buddha.Pottery and weavings are its industries.

Here you also visit other architecturalshowpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery,Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows,Bastille Temple and the Bell of BarkingDogs. You visit Natyapola Temple beforereturning to your hotel for the night. (BLD)

DAY 5 Kathmandu

Early this morning you have theopportunity to undertake a flight aroundMt Everest. After breakfast you are taken toBoudhanath, which is possibly the world’s

largest Buddhist Stupa and a site of greatveneration for Buddhists. Around the stupaa number of monasteries of the differentsects of Tibetan Buddhism have beenestablished which include one that housesan enormous, splendidly adorned, seatedstatue of Maitreya Buddha. You also visitPashupatinath, the most sacred of HinduTemples in Nepal and situated on thebanks of the holy Bagmati River.

You have the remainder of the day atleisure to further explore Kathmandu or to simply relax. (BLD)


This morning is at leisure until being takento the airport for your onward flight. (B)


39bodhnath stupa, nepal

Kali Gandaki (“Gandaki River”), nepal

Nepal Express Departs


Times to visitBest: March to May &



eyes of buddha on stupa, nepal

DAY 1 Arrive Paro / Thimpu

On arrival at Paro Airport you are met and taken for lunch before being taken byroad to Thimpu, the capital. Exquisitelybeautiful and brimming with traditionalBhutanese art, architecture, and culture,this tiny capital of Bhutan is nothing lessthan Shangri-La.

In the afternoon you visit the NationalMemorial Chorten with its finely executedwall paintings and delicately fashionedstatues giving us a deep insight into thekingdom’s Buddhist Culture. On yourreturn you drive past the Trashi ChhoeDzong (“Fortress of the GloriousReligion”), a distinctively Bhutanesefortress monastery erected in1641. (LD)

DAY 2 Thimpu

Today’s full day of sightseeing in ThimpuValley will be your first introduction to theway of life in this peaceful part of the world.

You start the day with a walk to TangoGoemba, a monastery of the Mahayanaschool of Buddhism located outside thecity. Here we are given the opportunity to witness how the young monks aretrained in the Buddhist way of life. In theafternoon you visit the National Librarywhich was established in the late1960s to conserve the country’s literary treasures,which form a significant part of Bhutan’scultural heritage. While in the area you visitthe nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum,commonly known as the “Painting School”,where students spend six years training in

the13 arts and crafts of Bhutan. You alsovisit the folk Heritage and National TextileMuseums, a fascinating testimony toBhutan’s living traditions. (BLD)

DAY 3 Thimpu / Tongsa

After breakfast you are driven up theDochula Pass, where you stop briefly toadmire the108 Chorten (spiritual stupa),mani wall (prayer slate covered stone wall),and prayer flags which decorate the highestpoint on the road. If skies are clear you willsee many of the high peaks surroundingthe area including Gangkar Puensum, thehighest peak in Bhutan at 7,497 metres.

You continue down the winding pass to the town of Wangduephodrang, where youhave lunch. Following lunch you continueon to Tongsa across the Pele-la Pass, thetraditional boundary between east andwest. The pass is marked by a large whitechorten and prayer flags. There is also anabrupt change in vegetation at this point,with mountain forest being replaced byhigh altitude Dwarf Bamboo. On arrival inTongsa you check into our hotel and havethe remainder of the day to relax. (BLD)

DAY 4 Trongsa / Bumthang

This morning you undertake a walk to the Tongsa Dzong, built by Shabdrung in1647. Following lunch, you drive toBumthang via the Yutong-la Pass. The road winds steeply up the pass then downthrough a Coniferous Forest into a wide,open cultivated valley known as theChumey Valley. (BLD)


BHUTAN

a very young monk, bhutan

India

BhutanBumthang

Trongsa

Punakha

Paro Thimphu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Thimpu, the Capital of Bhutan.• The National Memorial Chorten.• Full day of sightseeing in Thimpu Valley.• Mahayana Buddhism Monastery.• The National Library of Bhutan.• Bhutan’s Arts & Crafts Painting School.• Crossing of Dochula & Pele-la Passes.• Trongsa & the Trongsa Dzong.• Bumthang & Surroundings Tour.• Punakha & Surroundings Tour.• Wangdue Phodrang, 400 year old town.• A fabulous 3-night stay in Paro.• “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”, Paro.• Visit to Drukgyel Dzong, from1646.• Walk to the “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery.• Blue Pine & Rhododendron Forests.• Lhakhang Karpo (“White”) Monastery.• Lhakhang Nagpo (“Black”) Monastery.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes all meals,as there are few other dining optionsavailable in the destinations visited.

• 30 superb meals included in the tour: 10 Breakfasts,10 Lunches & 10 Dinners.

Please Note• Flight schedules & visa conditions for Bhutan & Tibet can change, so please contact Inca Tours for up-to-date info.40

11 days: The Best of Bhutan

DAY 5 Bumthang

Bumthang is the general name given to the combination of four valleys: Chumey,Choekhor, Tang and Ura whose altitudevaries between 2,600 metres and 4,000metres. It is home to many prominentBuddhist Temples and Monasteries.

Today you visit the Kurje Lhakhang, where Saint Padmasambhava subdued alocal demon and left his bodily imprint ona rock; the 7th Century Temple of JambeyLhakhang, the Tamshing Lhakhang, whichhouses some of the oldest wall paintings inBhutan and Jakar Dzong, the administrativecentre of the region. Later you have timefor a stroll in the village to visit thehandicrafts shop and to just take in the atmosphere of the region. (BLD)

DAY 6 Bumthang / Punakha

Today you are driven to Punakha, with anumber of stops along the way to stretchyour legs. On arrival you check into yourhotel for a two night-stay. (BLD)

DAY 7 Punakha

Following breakfast you tour Punakha, theKingdom’s Capital until 1955 and thewinter home for the country’s central bodyof monks. The local dzong has a gold-domed six story tower where your guidewill take you inside to view its courtyardsand religious statuary, while explaining thedepth of history and spiritual traditionembodied here. You also visit the newlybuilt Khamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten.

Later in the day you are taken on anexcursion to Wangdue Phodrang, a 400year old town whose dzong is located on a ridge with a commanding view of thevalleys below. As you enjoy a guided tourto the dzong you will be fully immersed in Bhutan’s spectacular Himalaya scenery,where the workings of a long isolatedculture exhibit a dignity and spirituality to match the loftiness of their naturalsurroundings. Following the visit youreturn to your hotel in Punakha. (BLD)

DAY 8 Punakha / Paro

After breakfast you are driven to Paro. It is located in a beautiful valley whichencapsulates a rich culture, scenic beautyand hundreds of myths and legends.

Paro is home to many of Bhutan’s oldesttemples and monasteries, the country’s only airport and the National Museum. Mt Chomolhari (7,300 metres) reigns inwhite glory at the northern end of thevalley, its glacial waters plunging throughgorges to form the Pa Chu (“Paro River”).

Today you visit Rinpung Dzong or the“Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”, which was built in1646. The approach to theDzong is through a traditional coveredbridge (called the “Nemi Zam”) and thenup a paved stone path running alongsidethe imposing outer walls.

In addition, you visit Ta Dzong which islocated on a ridge immediately overlookingRinpung Dzong and was originally built as a watchtower to protect the dzong. It is now the National Museum and holds afascinating collection of art, relics, religiousThangkha paintings, Bhutan’s exquisitepostage stamps, coins and handicrafts,together with a small natural historycollection. (BLD)

DAY 9 Paro

This morning you are driven to see theruins of the Drukgyel Dzong, perched in the mountains, at the departure pointfor many long-distance mountain treks. This dzong, with a picturesque villagenestling below its ramparts, was built in1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his famous victory overthe Tibetan invaders.

Following the visit you undertake a walk to the Taktshang Monastery, the mostfamous of Bhutan’s monasteries, which isperched on the side of a cliff 900 metresabove the Paro Valley floor. It is said thatGuru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this place,hence the monastery is also called “Tiger’sNest”. This site is a place of pilgrimagewhich Bhutanese try to visit at least once ina lifetime. The excursion up to the viewingarea, located on a rocky outcrop across aravine from the monastery, takes about fivehours round trip. Though the climb is quitesteep, the journey is most worthwhile onaccount of the superb views enroute. (BLD)

DAY 10 Paro

Today you undertake a full day excursionto Haa. You drive to Haa via the Chele-laPass with its Blue Pine and RhododendronForest. From the top of the pass if theweather is clear, you have superb views of Mt Chomolhari and Jichu Drakey. The Haa Dzong is presently occupied bythe Indian Military but the view from theoutside is stunning! After a picnic lunch youvisit the famous Lhakhang Karpo Monastery(“White Temple”) and Lhakhang NagpoMonastery (“Black Temple”). The centralshrine in Lhakhang Nagpo is said to beidentical to that in Lhasa Jowo, Tibet. (BLD)

DAY 11 Depart Paro



41

The Best of Bhutan Departs


Times to visitBest: March to early May & late



Punakha Djong, bhutan

DAY 1 Arrive Paro

On arrival at Paro Airport you are met andtaken to your hotel for two nights.

Paro is located in a beautiful valley whichencapsulates a rich culture, scenic beautyand hundreds of myths and legends. It ishome to many of Bhutan’s oldest templesand monasteries, the country’s only airportand the National Museum.

Mt Chomolhari (7,300 metres) reigns in white glory at the northern end of thevalley, its glacial waters plunging throughdeep gorges to form the Pa Chu (“ParoRiver”). (D)

DAY 2 Paro

This morning you are driven to see theruins of the Drugyel Dzong, perched in the mountains, at the departure point for many long-distance mountain treks. This dzong, with a picturesque villagenestling below its ramparts, was built in1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate his famous victory overthe Tibetan invaders. On your return youvisit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse.

After lunch you visit Ta Dzong, which islocated on a ridge immediately overlookingRinpung Dzong and was originally built as a watchtower to protect the dzong. It is now the National Museum and holds afascinating collection of art, relics, religiousthangkha paintings, Bhutan’s exquisitepostage stamps, coins and handicrafts,together with a small natural historycollection. (BLD)

DAY 3 Paro / Thimpu

Following breakfast you undertake a walk to the Taktsang Monastery, the mostfamous of Bhutan’s monasteries, which isperched on the side of a cliff 900 metresabove the Paro Valley floor. It is said thatGuru Rinpoche arrived here on the back ofa tigress and meditated at this place, hencethe monastery is also called “Tiger’s Nest”.This site is a place of pilgrimage whichBhutanese try to visit at least once in alifetime. The excursion to the viewing arealocated on a rocky outcrop across a ravinefrom the monastery, takes five hours roundtrip. Though the climb is steep, the journeyis worthwhile on account of the views.

After lunch you are taken to your hotel in Thimpu. Exquisitely beautiful andbrimming with traditional Bhutanese art,architecture and culture, this tiny capital isnothing less than Shangri-La! (BLD)

DAY 4 Thimphu

You start the day with a visit to the NationalMemorial Chorten, with its finely executedwall paintings and delicate statues, each ofwhich provide an insight into the Kingdom’sBuddhist Culture. On your return you pass the Tashi Chhoe Dzong (“Fortress of the Glorious Religion”), a distinctivelyBhutanese fortress monastery from1641.

In the afternoon you visit the NationalLibrary, established in the late1960s toconserve the country’s literary treasures,which form a significant part of Bhutan’scultural heritage.


BHUTAN

taktshang monastery (“Tiger’s nest”), bhutan

India

BhutanPunakha

Paro Thimphu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• A fabulous 3-night stay in Paro.• “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”, Paro.• The National Museum.• Visit to Drukgyel Dzong, from1646.• Walk to the “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery.• Thimpu, the Capital of Bhutan.• The National Memorial Chorten.• The National Library of Bhutan.• Bhutan’s Arts & Crafts Painting School.• Crossing of Dochula Pass.• Punakha & Surroundings Tour.• Wangdue Phodrang, 400 year old town.• The long established Paro Bazaar.



Please Note• Flight schedules & visa conditions for Bhutan & Tibet can change, so please contact Inca Tours for up-to-date info.

42

8 days: Bhutan Cultures

While in the area you visit the Institute forZorig Chusum or “Painting School”, wherestudents spend six years training in the 13arts and crafts of Bhutan. You also visit theHeritage and National Textile Museums, atestimony to Bhutan’s live traditions. (BLD)

DAY 5 Thimphu / Punakha

After breakfast you are driven up theDochula Pass, where you stop briefly toadmire the108 Chortens (spiritual Stupa),mani wall (prayer slate covered stone wall)and prayer flags which decorate the highestpoint on the road. If the sky is clear you willsee many of the high peaks which surroundthe area, including Gangkar Puensum,Bhutan’s highest peak at 7,497 metres.

You continue down the winding pass toWangduephodrang, where you have lunch.After lunch you continue on to Punakha.On arrival you check into your hotel andhave the rest of the day at leisure. (BLD)

DAY 6 Punakha

Following breakfast you tour Punakha, the Kingdom’s Capital until 1955 and thewinter home for the country’s central bodyof monks. The local dzong has a gold-domed six-story tower into which yourguide will take you to view its courtyardsand religious statues, while explaining thehistory and spiritual tradition embodiedhere. You also visit the newly builtKhamsum Yuley Namgyal Chorten.

Later you are taken to Wangdue Phodrang, a 400 year old town whose dzong is locatedon a ridge with a commanding view of thevalleys. During a tour to the dzong, you willbe fully immersed in Bhutan’s spectacularHimalaya scenery, where the workings of along isolated culture exhibit a dignity andspirituality to match the loftiness of theirnatural surroundings. Following the visityou return to your hotel in Punakha. (BLD)

DAY 7 Punakha / Paro

After breakfast you are driven back to Parowhere you visit the Paro Bazaar. (BLD)

DAY 8 Depart Paro



43national memorial chorten, thimpu

paro valley, bhutan

Bhutan Cultures Departs


Times to visitBest: March to early May &

late September to November.


buddha point, thimpu, bhutan

DAY 1 Arrive Paro

On arrival at Paro Airport you are met andtaken to your hotel for the night. Paro islocated in a beautiful valley encapsulating a rich culture, scenic beauty and hundredsof myths and legends. It is home to manyof Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries,the country’s only airport and the NationalMuseum. Mt Chomolhari (7,300 metres)reigns in white glory at the northern end ofthe valley, its glacial waters plunging throughgorges to form Pa Chu (“Paro River”). (D)

DAY 2 Paro / Thimpu

After breakfast you undertake a walk to theTaktsang Monastery, the most famous ofBhutan’s monasteries, which is perched onthe side of a cliff 900 metres above the ParoValley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpochearrived here on the back of a tigress andmeditated at this place, hence the monasteryis also called “Tiger’s Nest”. This site is aplace of pilgrimage which Bhutanese try tovisit at least once in a lifetime. The excursionup to the viewing area located on a rockyoutcrop across a ravine from the monastery,takes about five hours round trip. Thoughthe climb is quite steep, the journey is mostworthwhile on account of the superb views.

Following lunch you are taken to yourhotel in Thimpu, the capital. Exquisitelybeautiful and brimming with traditionalBhutanese art, architecture, and culture,this tiny capital of Bhutan is nothing lessthan Shangri-La! (BLD)

DAY 3 Thimphu

You start the day with a visit to the NationalMemorial Chorten, with its finely executedwall paintings and delicate statues whichprovide a deep insight into the Kingdom’sBuddhist Culture. On your return you pass the Tashi Chhoe Dzong (“Fortress of the Glorious Religion”), a distinctivelyBhutanese fortress monastery from1641.

In the afternoon you visit the NationalLibrary, established in the late1960s toconserve the country’s literary treasures,which form a significant part of Bhutan’scultural heritage. You also visit the Institutefor Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the“Painting School”, where students spend sixyears training in the13 traditional arts andcrafts of Bhutan. You then visit the Heritageand National Textile Museums, a fascinatingtestimony to Bhutan’s live traditions. (BLD)

DAY 4 Thimphu / Paro

After breakfast you drive to the DochulaPass, where you stop briefly to admire the108 Chorten (spiritual Stupas), mani wall(prayer slate covered stone wall) and prayerflags which decorate the highest point onthe road. If the sky is clear you will see manyof the peaks surrounding the area includingGangkar Puensum, the highest peak inBhutan at 7,497 metres. You then return toParo where you visit the Paro Bazaar. (BLD)

DAY 5 Depart Paro



BHUTAN

buddhist dzong, paro valley

India

Bhutan

Paro Thimphu

Bhutan Express Departs


Times to visitBest: March to early May &

late September to November.


Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• A fabulous 2-night stay in Paro.• An eventful 2-night stay in Thimpu.• Walk to the “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery.• The National Memorial Chorten.• The National Library of Bhutan.• Bhutan’s Arts & Crafts Painting School.• The spectacular Dochula Pass.• The long established Paro Bazaar.



Please Note• Flight schedules & visa conditions for Bhutan & Tibet can change, so please contact Inca Tours for up-to-date info.

44

5 days: Bhutan Express


On arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal, you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel for two nights. Today is at leisure.

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on a tour ofKathmandu and the Buddhist Stupa ofSwayambhunath. This afternoon you visitPatan City or “the City of Fine Arts”. (B)

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Zangmu

This morning you are driven to Kodariwhere the “Friendship Bridge” is located.Once you reach the Friendship Bridge you are assisted with Nepal’s immigrationformalities before walking across the bridgewhere you clear Chinese Immigration andmeet your Tibetan Guide. Once throughyou are driven to Zangmu which is locatedat 2,500 metres above sea level. On arrivalyou check into your hotel for the night andhave the remainder of the day at leisure. (D)

DAY 4 Zangmu / Xegar

Today you travel by road to Xegar locatedat 4,350 metres above sea level. During thedrive you cross the Nyalam and Lalung-LaPass (5,050 metres) which offers spectacularviews of the Himalayas and includes viewsof Mt Everest if the weather is clear. (BLD)

DAY 5 Xegar / Shigatse

Following breakfast you depart for Shigatse,located at 3,900 metres above sea level. Thefirst part of the drive across plains shouldprovide panoramic views of Mt Everest,

Cho-Oyu, Makalu and other lofty peaksjutting out of the skyline toward the bluesky above. This should be a great day forphotography. During the drive you also crossthe Gvatso La Pass (5,252 metres). (BLD)

DAY 6 Shigatse / Gyangtse

This morning you visit the TashilhunpoMonastery (“Heap of Glory”), founded by the first Dalai Lama in1447 in honour of his teacher Kadrub. It is believed that allfortunes and happiness are gathered here.

In the afternoon you are driven to Gyangtse,at 3,950 metres, where you visit the PalkhurChoide Monastery and the KumbumStupa, built in the15th Century solely forworship. No monks lived there. (BLD)


TIBET

45

India

Nepal

Tibet

BhutanZangmu

Xegar

ShigatseGyangtseLhasa

Kathmandu

mountain hotel, tibet

10 days: the best of Tibet

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• “Friendship Bridge”, Nepal & Tibet.• Zangmu, 2,500 metres above sea level.• Spectacular views of Mount Everest.• Xegar, at 4,350 metres above sea level.• The Gvatso la Pass, at 5,252 metres asl!• Shigatse, at 3,900 metres above sea level.• The Tashilhunpo Monastery, from1447.• The Palkhur Choide Monastery.• The15th Century Kumbum Stupa.• Gyangtse, at 3,950 metres above sea level.• The picturesque “Turquoise Lake”.• Lhasa, at 3,650 metres asl, for 3 nights.• Potala Palace, a well known landmark.• The Drepung Monastery, Tibet’s largest.• Bharkhor Bazaar, Tibet’s oldest market.• Sera Monastery, Tibet’s second largest.• Jolkhang Temple, Lhasa’s most sacred.• Norbulingkha Palace, the “Jewel Park”.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-madeTour includes all meals,as there are few other dining optionsavailable in the destinations visited.


Please Note• This tour includes high altitude areas.• For this tour a Chinese Visa (US$114) must be paid for in Kathmandu. Inca Tours will arrange this in advance.

roof of norbulinkha monastery

DAY 7 Gyangtse / Lhasa

Today you complete the drive to Lhasa,located at 3,650 metres. Although not far,the drive takes most of the day. You cross theKaro La Pass (5,010 metres) and then travelaround the edge of the picturesque YamdrokLake, also known as the “Turquoise Lake”.You then cross Khamba La Pass (4,794metres) and travel through several valleysbefore reaching Lhasa. On arrival you checkin to your hotel for three nights. (BLD)

DAY 8 Lhasa

After breakfast you visit Potala Palace; theDrepung Monastery and Bharkhor Bazaar.

Potala Palace is the best known landmarkin Tibet, consisting of13 stories and1,000rooms. Originally it was the winter palaceof the Dalai Lama but it is now a museum.It can be seen from any part of Lhasa.

Drepung (meaning “Rice Heap”) Monasterywas the largest and richest of all theTibetan Monasteries. Said to be the largestmonastery in the world, at its peak ithoused over10,000 monks and governed7,700 subsidiary monasteries. Founded in1416 the second, third and fourth DalaiLama lived and were entombed here.Today only about 400 monks lived there.

Bharkhor Bazaar is the largest and oldestmarket in Tibet. When you walk throughOld Lhasa’s narrow streets, white-washedstone homes, black window frames andbrightly painted woodwork, you will noticethat everyone is selling something! (BLD)

DAY 9 Lhasa

Today you visit the Sera Monastery,Jolkhang Temple and Norbulingkha Palace.

Sera Monastery is situated to the north ofCentral Lhasa and is Tibet’s second largestmonastery. This famous place was namedafter the wild roses growing around it whenit was founded in1419. At its peak it housedover 7,000 monks and was famous for itswarrior monks known as the “Dob-Doa”.

Jokhang Temple is located in the heart ofOld Lhasa and is the most sacred and oldesttemple in Lhasa. According to tradition, thetemple was built for the two brides of theking, one from the Chinese Tang Dynastyand the other from Nepal.

Both are said to have brought to Tibetimportant Buddhist Statues and images fromChina and Nepal as part of their dowries.

Norbulinkha Palace or “Jewel Park”, as it isknown, was built in the18th Century by the7th Dalai Lama and served as the summerpalace of the13th and14th Dalai Lamas. The palace is a very interesting mixture ofreligious and modern elements and featureda colourful garden landscape which was thesite of picnic and public gatherings. Thepalaces are richly decorated, creating anatmosphere of quiet, peaceful repose. (BLD)

DAY 10 Depart Lhasa

This morning you are taken to LhasaAirport where your tour ends. (B)


& NEPAL

view from roof of potala palace, Lhasa

potala palace, lhasa

The Best of Tibet Departs


Time to visitBest: March to October.


FlightsIn November & December flightsonly operate on Tuesdays &Saturdays.

46

DAY 1 Arrive LhasaOn arrival at Lhasa Airport you are metand taken to your hotel for four nights. (D)

DAY 2 LhasaAfter breakfast you visit Potala Palace, theDrepung Monastery and Bharkhor Bazaar.

Potala Palace is probably the best knownlandmark in Tibet, consisting of13 storiesand1,000 rooms. Previously it was thewinter palace of the Dalai Lama but is now a museum. It can be seen andphotographed from any parts of Lhasa.

Drepung (meaning “Rice Heap”) Monasterywas the biggest and the richest of all themonasteries in Tibet. Said to be the largestMonastery in the world, at its peak ithoused over10,000 monks and governed7,700 subsidiary monasteries. Founded in1416 the second, third and fourth DalaiLama lived and were entombed here.Today only about 400 monks live there.

Bharkhor Bazaar is the largest and oldest of Tibet’s markets. When you walk throughOld Lhasa with its narrow streets, white-washed stone homes, black window framesand brightly painted timber, you notice thatalmost everyone is selling something! (BLD)

DAY 3 LhasaToday you visit the Sera Monastery,Jolkhang Temple and Norbulingkha Palace.

Sera Monastery is situated to the north ofCentral Lhasa and is Tibet’s second largestmonastery. This famous place was namedafter the wild roses growing around it when

it was founded in1419. At its peak it housedover 7,000 monks and was famous for itswarrior monks known as the “Dob-Doa”.

Jokhang Temple is located in the heart of Old Lhasa and is the most sacred andoldest temple in Lhasa. According totradition the temple was built for the twobrides of the king, one from the ChineseTang Dynasty and the other from Nepal.Both wives are said to have broughtimportant Buddhist statues and imagesfrom China and Nepal to Tibet as part oftheir dowries and they were housed here.

Norbulinkha Palace or the “Jewel Park”, asit is known in Tibetan, was built in the18th

Century by the 7th Dalai Lama and servedas the summer palace of the13th and14th

Dalai Lamas. The palace is an interestingmixture of religious and modern elementsand featured a most colourful garden whichwas the site of picnic and public gatherings.The palaces are richly decorated, creatingan atmosphere of peaceful repose. (BLD)

DAY 4 Lhasa

Today’s tour takes you out of the city to the Gandan Monastery. Meaning “Joyful”,Gandan Monastery is located on WangburMountain and has commanding views ofthe Kich Valley below. Like Sera Monastery,Gandan is one of the three most significantGelugpa University Monasteries. (BLD)

DAY 5 Depart Lhasa

Following breakfast your tour comes to anend as you are taken to the airport. (B)


TIBET

47

Nepal

Tibet

Bhutan

Lhasa

norbulinkha monastery, lhasa

Tibet Highlights Departs


Time to visitBest: March to October.


FlightsIn November& December flightsonly operate on Tuesdays &Saturdays.

5 days: Tibet Highlights

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• 4 nights in Lhasa, at 3,650 metres asl.• Potala Palace, a well known landmark.• The Drepung Monastery, Tibet’s largest.• Bharkhor Bazaar, Tibet’s oldest market.• Sera Monastery, Tibet’s second largest.• Jolkhang Temple, Lhasa’s most sacred.• Norbulingkha Palace, the “Jewel Park”.• Gandan Monastery, meaning “Joyful”.• Commanding views of the Kich Valley.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes all meals, as there are very few alternative dining options available in the destinations visited.


Please Note• This tour includes high altitude areas.• For this tour a Chinese Visa (US$114) must be paid for in Kathmandu. Inca Tours will arrange this in advance.

• Flight schedules & visa conditions for Tibet & Bhutan can change, so please contact Inca Tours for up-to-date info.

DAY 1 Arrive Colombo

On arrival in Colombo you will be metand taken to your hotel for the night.

DAY 2 Colombo / Dambulla

After breakfast you are driven to your hotelin Dambulla for a fascinating three-nightstay. Dambulla is a great location fromwhich to explore the “Sri Lankan CulturalTriangle”. This afternoon is at leisure toexperience your new surroundings. (BLD)

DAY 3 Dambulla – Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa

Today you undertake a full day excursionto Sigiriya (also known as “Lion Rock”)and Polonnaruwa. Sigiriya, listed as the 8th Wonder of the World, is a large stonefortress dating from around AD 480.Polonnaruwa became Sri Lanka’s Capital inthe10th Century, boasting a water storageand irrigation system that was well ahead ofits time and still partly in use today. (BLD)

DAY 4 Dambulla – Anuradhapura

Today’s tour takes you to Anuradhapura, a World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s firstcapital, dating from the 4th Century BC. It is one of the world’s oldest continuouslyinhabited cities and renowned for its well-preserved, ancient Sri Lankan Ruins. (BLD)

DAY 5 Dambulla / Kandy

Following breakfast you farewell this area asyou are driven to Kandy. Enroute you visit aspice garden and a tea plantation to see howfamiliar spices and tea are grown. (BLD)

DAY 6 Kandy

Today you have a half day city tour whichincludes a visit to the Botanical Gardens, aswell as the “Temple of the Tooth”, so namedas it contains a sacred relic tooth of the LordBuddha. Your afternoon is at leisure. (BL)

DAY 7 Kandy / Depart Colombo

After breakfast you are taken to ColomboAirport where your tour ends. Enroute youvisit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a home for about 60 elephants foundabandoned or orphaned in the wild. Theyare being cared for, fed and trained by thewildlife authority. The best to visit is in themorning, when you have the opportunityof seeing these ‘babes’ being bottle-fed. (B)


SRI LANKA

tea plantation, sri lanka

Sri Lanka

Kandy

DambullaSigiriya

Polonnaruwa

Anuradhapura

Colombo

Sri Lanka Cultural Departs


Time to visitBest: April to September.


Combines well withThe Southern Sri Lanka Tourto form a comprehensive13 daytour of Sri Lanka.

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Colombo, the Sri Lankan Capital.• A fascinating 3-nights in Dambulla.• The “Sri Lankan Cultural Triangle”.• Excursion to Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa.• Anuradhapura, a World Heritage Site.• A Spice Garden & a Tea Plantation.• A fabulous 2-night stay in Kandy.• The Kandy Botanical Gardens.• “Temple of the (Lord Buddha) Tooth”.• The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes most but not all meals, allowing you to do what you want and eat where you likein your free time.


48

7 days: Sri lanka Cultural produce markets

DAY 1 Arrive Colombo

On arrival in Colombo you are met andtaken to your hotel for the night.

DAY 2 Colombo / Galle

Following breakfast you are taken by roadto Galle. On the way you stop to visit aturtle breeding hatchery. On arrival inGalle you check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. You have the afternooncompletely at leisure to relax or to exploreyour new surroundings. (B)

DAY 3 Galle

Old Galle, a fine example of a17th CenturyDutch Colonial Fortress, is a UNESCOListed World Heritage Site. It still houses a bustling community with narrow streets,pillared verandas and framework facades.

This morning you undertake a shortwalking tour of the area before being left toexplore in your own time or alternatively,being taken back to the hotel. (B)

DAY 4 Galle / Tangalle

You enjoy another leisurely start to the day before being taken by road to Tangalle.On arrival you check in to your hotel fortwo relaxing nights. Well renowned forsome of the very best beaches in Sri Lanka,you have time this afternoon to explore the area or to simply relax. (B)

DAY 5 Tangalle

You have a full day at leisure in Tangalle tofurther explore your surroundings. (B)

DAY 6 Tangalle / Bentota

Following breakfast you start your returnjourney towards Bentota. Renowned for its water activities, on arrival you have theafternoon to relax or to explore. (B)

DAY 7 Bentota

This morning you are taken to the BriefGardens, near Kalawila. Spread over threehectares, they provide the opportunity for astroll, as well as a visit to the gardens’ privatemuseum. Following this you return to yourhotel and have the afternoon at leisure. (B)

DAY 8 Bentota / Depart Colombo

This morning you are taken back toColombo Airport where your tour ends. (B)


SRI LANKA

49

Sri Lanka

Galle

Bentota

Tangelle

Colombo

Southern Sri LankaDeparts


Time to visitBest: December to March.


Combines well withThe Sri Lankan Cultural Tourto form a comprehensive13day tour of Sri Lanka.

asiatic elephants, sri lanka

8 days: Southern Sri lanka

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert local guides in each location.• Colombo, the Sri Lankan Capital.• A unique Turtle Breeding Hatchery.• Galle, a 17 th Century Dutch Fortress.• A Walking Tour of Old Galle.• Two relaxing nights in Tangalle.• A full day at leisure in Tangalle.• Bentota, renowned for water activities.• The Brief Gardens, near Kalawila.



This trek is named in honour of PrinceCharles, the Prince of Wales, who trekkedthe route many years ago. Due to it beingfairly easy going, short yet offering someexcellent views, it is quite popular. On thetrek you get to see Mustang, the AnnapurnaRange, Manaslu, as well as Begnas Lake.


On arrival at Kathmandu Airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to Nepal with a Cultural Dinner & Danceat a local restaurant.

Kathmandu the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has theair of a medieval city. It is a maze of narrowstreets, wooden temples and beautifullydecorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of janglingcymbals and the markets are a rich blend of colours and aromas. Only in the1950swas Nepal opened up to visitors and today the contrast between 21st Centurytechnology and traditional lifestyles help to make Kathmandu one of the world’smost fascinating cities. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu

This morning you are taken on asightseeing tour of Kathmandu visitingamong others, the Temple of Kumari, theresidence of the Living Goddess, with itscarved wooden balconies and windows.You also visit the fabulous Buddhist Stupaof Swayambhunath, which is said to beover 2,000 years old.

This afternoon you visit Patan City or “theCity of Fine Arts”, as it is known. Here youvisit Patan Durbar Square, situated in theheart of the city and boasting many HinduTemples and Buddhist Monuments. Itconsists of three main chowks or courtyards,the central Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowkand Keshav Chowk. With the assistance ofyour guide, you will explore this interestingarea, dating back hundreds of years. (BLD)

DAY 3 Kathmandu / Pokhara 210 kilometres, 5 hours

Following breakfast you are taken by roadto Pokhara, where you have the afternoonat leisure. Pokhara is located in one of themost scenic valleys in Nepal, with excellentviews (when the weather is clear) of the MtAnnapurna Range. Pokhara also has a lakewhich is well worth visiting. (BLD)

DAY 4 Pokhara / Kalikathan 1,500 metres, 4 hours

Today starts with a short drive to BijayapurKhola, where you begin your trek. Initiallythe trek takes you through paddy fields,before you begin the ascent to Kalikasthan.Tonight is spent at a local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 5 Kalikathan / Shaklung 1,730 metres, 6 hours

After breakfast you commence walkingthrough villages along the hill ridge. Thiswalk offers mountain views of Annapurnaand Lamjung Himal. Today you trek forabout six hours visiting many local villages,as well as rhododendron forests enroute.Overnight is at another local lodge. (BLD)


NEPAL

beautiful lake begnas, nepal

Nepal

India

Pokhara Kalikathan

Chisopani ShaklungKathmandu

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert trekking guide throughout.• 3 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu.• Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath.• Patan City,“the City of Fine Arts”.• Pokhara, in Nepal’s most Scenic Valley.• Picturesque paddy fields.• Overnight at lodge in Kalikasthan.• Annapurna & Lamjung Himal Views.• Local Villages & Rhododendron Forests.• Overnight at Local Lodge in Shaklung.• Local “Gurkhas” Villages.• The best views of Himalaya Panorama.• Overnight at Guesthouse in Chisopani.• Boat ride on the beautiful Lake Begnas.• Overnight at Guesthouse in Pokhara.• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• An optional flight around Mount Everest.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes all meals, as there are very few alternativedining options available on the trek.

• 23 superb meals included in the tour: 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches 8 Dinners.

50

9 days: The Royal Trek

DAY 6 Shaklung / Chisopani2,000 metres, 6 hours

Today you walk through Gurung(“Gurkhas”) Villages, where you observe the locals. Today’s trek has many up anddown sections, as you walk through Sal andRhododendron Forests. You trek for sixhours, during which you experience the bestviews of the Himalaya Panorama includingMt Dhaulagiri and Mt Annapurna. Tonightis spent at a local guesthouse. (BLD)

DAY 7 Chisopani/ Pokhara950 metres, 3 hours

Today starts with a descent to Rupatal,before a final climb to Sundare Danda. Fromhere your final decent is to Lake Begnas.

Here you undertake a boat ride of aboutone hour, before meeting up with yourdriver who will take you to your Pokharaguesthouse for the final trek night. (BLD)

Please note: Begnas Lake Resort overlookingBegnas Lake is very comfortable. You maychoose to upgrade and stay here as opposedto staying in the Pokhara guesthouse.


This morning you are taken to the airportwhere you board your flight to Kathmandu.

In the afternoon you are taken to BhaktapurCity or the “City of Devotees”, as it is alsocalled. It is shaped like a conch shell andwas the setting for the major Hollywoodproduction The Little Buddha.

Pottery and weavings are its traditionalindustries. Here you also visit otherarchitectural showpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery, Golden Gate, thePalace of 55 Windows, Bastille Temple and the Bell of Barking Dogs.

Later in the day you visit the NatyapolaTemple before being returned to your hotel for the night. (BLD)


Early this morning you will have theopportunity to undertake an optional flightaround Mt Everest. After breakfast you aretaken to Kathmandu Airport where yourtrekking tour comes to an end. (B)


51local trekkers’ lodge, nepal

local shop on trek trail, nepal

The Royal Trek Departs


Times to visitBest: Late September to November.Shoulder: March to May but there

will be more cloud.

Star rating2-star to 3-star only.

trek trail crossing, nepal

This is one of the most popular mid lengthtreks.The diverse terrain and cultures of theregion make each day’s walk unique.Walkingthrough the wild but friendly nature isamazing and although fairly challenging,reaching Machapuchre and AnnapurnaBase Camps is greatly rewarding.Themaximum altitude reached is 4,234 metres.


On arrival at Kathmandu Airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to Nepal with a Cultural Dinner &Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has the air of a medieval city. It contains amaze of narrow streets, wooden templesand beautifully decorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of jangling cymbals and the marketsare a rich blend of colours and aromas.Only in the1950s was Nepal opened up to visitors and today the contrast between21st Century technology and traditionallifestyles help to make Kathmandu one of the world’s most fascinating cities. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu / Pokhara 210 kilometres, 5 hours

After breakfast you are driven to Pokhara,where your afternoon is at leisure. Pokharais located in one of the most scenic valleysin Nepal, with excellent views of the MtAnnapurna Range on clear days. It also hasa lake which is well worth visiting. (BLD)

DAY 3 Pokhara / Hille or Ulleri 1,500 metres or 2,070 metres

After breakfast you drive to Naya Pool, thestarting point for your trek. From here youwalk along the river bank before havinglunch at a riverside restaurant. You then trekthrough local villages and subtropical forestsfor about four hours before reaching Hille.Once there, your guide will decide whetherto continue to Ulleri (a 40 minute toughwalk up hill) or stay overnight in Hille.Trekkers usually choose to complete this lastleg before stopping for the night, so theydo not have to start with it the next day.Overnight is spent at a local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 4 Hille or Ulleri / Ghorepani 2850 metres, 5 hours

Today you trek through more jungle beforereaching Ghorepani, a small village withshops, restaurants and tourist lodges. Hereyou will feel the fresh air of frequent weatherchanges. Tonight is spent at a lodge. (BLD)

DAY 5 Ghorepani/Poon Hill/Tadapani2,660 metres, 6 hours

You start with a trek up to Poon Hill (3,200 metres), a perfect viewpoint to seethe sunrise over the Annapurna Range. The climb is a bit tough but worth it forthe spectacular views. Following the sunriseyou return to your lodge in Ghorepani forbreakfast. You later head east, experiencingincredible views of the Himalayas,Rhododendron Forests, waterfall and rivers.After trekking for about six hours you arrivein Tadapani. Overnight at a lodge. (BLD)


NEPAL

annapurna base camp, nepal

Nepal

I

PokharaUlleri

Annapurna I

Annapurna South

Annapurna III

Machapuchhare

Annapurna BC Machapuchhare BC

ChomrongGhorepani

TadapaniJhinuwa

To Kathmandu

DovanBamboo

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert trekking guide throughout.• 2 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• Pokhara, in Nepal’s most Scenic Valley.• Local Villages & Subtropical Forests.• Overnight at a lodge in Hille or Ulleri.• Overnight in the Village of Ghorepani.• Sunrise over the Annapurna Range.• Incredible Views of the Himalayas.• Rhododendrons, Waterfalls & Rivers.• Overnight at lodge in Tadapani.• The West Bank of the Modi Khola.• The Gurung & Magar Communities.• Overnight at beautiful Chhomrong.• Wild Boar, Deer & Snow Leopard.• A night at Machhapuchre Base Camp.• Vast pasture lands of wild flowers.• One night at Annapurna Base Camp.• A Guesthouse in a “Bamboo”Village.• Jhinuwa Danda’s Natural Hot Springs.• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• An optional flight around Mount Everest.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes all meals, as there are very few alternativedining options available on the trek.

• 38 superb meals included in the tour: 13 Breakfasts,12 Lunches &13 Dinners.

52

14 days: Annapurna region Trek

DAY 6 Tadapani / Chomrong 2,030 metres, 5 hours

Today you descend through the thick forest with your route taking you along theWest Bank of the Modi Khola. You thenpass through the village of Chuile beforereaching Kimrong Khola. Here you havelunch before continuing your climb toChhomrong, a beautiful village dominatedby the Gurung and Magar Communities,Tonight you stay in a local lodge, with themountain towering above you! (BLD)

DAY 7 Chomrong / Dovan 2,580 metres, 6 hours

Following breakfast you head down fromChhomrong and cross the suspensionbridge. You then commence the assent up Sinuwa Hill. The trail passes throughdense Rhododendron Forests as far asKhuldighar. From there the trail passesthrough thick Bamboo Forests until youreach the village of Dovan. You will spendthe night here at a local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 8 Dovan / Machapuchhare Base Camp 3,720 metres, 6 hours +

Today you follow the trail above the river, through a thick Bamboo, Oak andRhododendron Forests. After crossingvarious streams, the trail passes through an area where monkeys, wild boars, deers,birds and Snow Leopard have been seen.Following lunch you continue trekkingalong the river bank to Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC). The last one and a halfhours of the walk is quite challenging butyou will forget the challenge after seeing theriver, the mountains and the colourful flora.Tonight is spent at a lodge at MBC. (BLD)

DAY 9 Machapuchhare Base Camp / Annapurna Base Camp 4,130 metres, 3 hours

You continue trekking to Annapurna BaseCamp (ABC), the dream of a lifetime formany! You trek through vast pasture landswith wild flowers enroute. On the horizonyou will see snow-covered hills, melting toform many small rivers. Ahead appear themighty Machhapuchre, Annapurna South,Annapurna One and Hiuchuli Peaks. Onarrival at ABC you are at leisure to admirethe beauty of the Himalayas, the climax ofyour trek! Overnight at a local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 10 Annapurna BC / Bamboo 2,300 metres, 7 hours

You have breakfast while enjoying themagnificent sunrise before heading downto Machhapuchre Base Camp, Deurali,Dovan and finally, to the place known as“Bamboo”. Here you stay tonight in a local lodge or guesthouse. (BLD)

DAY 11 Bamboo / Jhinuwa 1,400 metres, 6 hours

Today’s trek takes you up many stone stepsto Chhomrong, before the steep descent toJhinuwa Danda. Blessed with natural hotsprings just10 minutes from your lodge, youhave the chance to rest and soak your warybones! Overnight in the local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 12 Jhinuwa / Pokhara 6 hours + 1 hour drive

With time to once again enjoy the hotsprings following breakfast, you trek fromJhinuwa to Naya Pool and then to KyumiVillage. After lunch you trek to SyauliBazaar, Birethanti and finally, to Naya Poolwhere your trek ends. Here you are met by your driver and taken to Pokhara for the evening. (BLD)


This morning you are taken to PokharaAirport to board your flight to Kathmandu.On arrival you are met and taken to yourcentrally located hotel for the night.

In the afternoon you visit Bhaktapur Cityor the “City of Devotees”, as it is called. It is shaped like a conch shell and was the

setting for the major Hollywood productionThe Little Buddha. Pottery and weavingsare its traditional industries. Here you alsovisit other architectural showpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of BhupatindraMalla, the Picture Gallery, Golden Gate,the Palace of 55 Windows, Bastille Templeand the Bell of Barking Dogs. Finally, you visit Natyapola Temple before beingreturned to your hotel for the night. (BLD)


Early this morning you have the opportunityto undertake an optional flight around Mt Everest.

Following breakfast you are taken to theairport where your trekking tour ends. (B)


53

rhododendron, annapurna trail

Annapurna Region Trek Departs


Times to visitBest: Late September to November.Shoulder: March to May but there

is more rain and cloud.


trekker, annapurna trail, nepal

The route to Everest Base Camp is probablythe most famous mountain trek in theworld. Each spring and autumn manywalkers make the journey through thefriendly Sherpa Villages to the base camp.

With eight of the world’s highest peaks,Nepalis second to none for mountain scenery. Thistrek takes you into some spectacular areas.


On arrival at Kathmandu Airport you aremet and taken to your centrally locatedhotel. In the evening you are introduced to Nepal with a Cultural Dinner &Dance at a local restaurant.

Kathmandu is the capital of the ancientmountain Kingdom of Nepal and has the air of a medieval city. It boasts a mazeof narrow streets, wooden temples anddecorated palaces. In the background there is often the gentle sound of janglingcymbals and its markets are a rich blend of colours and aromas. Only in the 1950swas Nepal opened to visitors and today thecontrast between21st Century technologyand tradition help make Kathmandu oneof the world’s most fascinating cities. (D)

DAY 2 Kathmandu/Lukla/Phakding2,800 metres, 6 hours

Today you are taken to the airport for yourflight to Lukla, where your trek begins.This is possibly one of the most spectacularflights in the world. Time permitting youmay visit the nearby monastery. Tonightyou stay at a local lodge. (BLD)

DAY 3 Phakding / Namche Bazaar 3,500 metres, 6 hours

Today you trek through Pine Forests, alongthe Dudh Koshi River and over a numberof suspension bridges. You have glitteringviews of Mt Thamserku (6,618 metres).After entering Sagarmatha NP you pass thevillage of Josralle, before reaching NamcheBazaar. Here you spend two nights. (BLD)

DAY 4 Namche Bazaar 3,500 metres, optional walks

This is the very important acclimatisationday. You may take optional walks to Thameor Kunde or just explore your surroundings.Namche Bazaar is the main trading centrefor the region. (BLD)

DAY 5 Namche/ Tengboche 3,860 metres, 5 hours

Today you trek to Tengboche, enjoyingsuperb views of Mt Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse,Ama Dablam and a close up of Thamserkuenroute. During the walk you may seeMusk Deer, Himalaya Thar and Pheasant.Tengboche has a magnificent monastery, theoldest in the Khumbu Region. On arrivalyou visit some local Chortens. Overnight is spent at a lodge in Tengboche. (BLD)

DAY 6 Tengboche / Dingboche 4,360 metres, 6 hours

Today is another exciting day of trekking asthe trail drops to Debuche. You then crossthe suspension bridge over Imja Khola,before climbing to Pangboche. Your uphilltrek continues to the quaint Sherpa Village


NEPAL

namche bazaar, nepal

Nepal

I

Tibet

C

Lukla

PhakdingNamche Bazaar

Tengboche Dingboche

Pumori

Kala PattarGorak Shep

Mt Everest

Lhotse

Ama Dablam

Island PeakNuptseLobuche

Pheriche

To Kathmandu

EverestBC

Tailor-made Tour Highlights• Expert trekking guide throughout.• 3 nights in fascinating Kathmandu.• Nepalese Cultural Dinner & Dance.• The most spectacular flight to Lukla!• Sagarmatha National Park.• 2 relaxing nights in Namche Bazaar.• Superb views of Mount Everest!• Deer, Himalaya Thar & Pheasant.• Tengboche’s magnificent Monastery.• Overnight at a Lodge in Tengboche.• A night in Dingboche, a Sherpa Village.• High Altitude Farmlands & Meadows.• The Moraine of the Khumbu Glacier.• An overnight at a Lodge in Lobuche.• Gorak Shep & nearby Mount Everest!• The Trail to Everest Base Camp (EBC).• Sunrise over Mount Everest.• Breathtaking Views from Kala Patthar.• Bhaktapur City, the “City of Devotees”.• A full day at leisure in Kathmandu.• An optional flight around Mount Everest.

Dining Experiences• This Tailor-made Tour includes almost all meals, as there are few alternative dining options available on the trek.

• 39 superb meals included in the tour: 14 Breakfasts,12 Lunches &13 Dinners.

54

15 days: Everest Base Camp Trek

of Dingboche in the Chukhung Valley. It is a popular stop for trekkers and climbersheading to Mt Everest, Ama Dablam orImja Tse (“Island Peak”). (BLD)

DAY 7 Dingboche / Lobuche 4,910 metres, 7 hours

After breakfast you start along the trailwhich passes through farmlands, meadowsand along the moraine of the KhumbuGlacier. Later you arrive at Lobuche andyour camp located just below the terminalmoraine of the glacier. Lobuche is a smallsettlement and a popular stop for trekkersin the area. From here trekkers continue on to Everest Base Camp (EBC) or opt toclimb the nearby and more modest peak ofKala Patthar (5,545 metres), for a fantasticview of Mt Everest. (BLD)

DAY 8 Lobuche / Gorak Shep 5,140 metres, 10 hours

This is your last major uphill day as you follow the trail to Gorak Shep. Onreaching Gorak Shep, you are surroundedby mountains including the mighty MtEverest (8,848 metres), the world’s highestmountain! After lunch you take the trail to Everest Base Camp (EBC) where you see tents belonging to those attempting to climb Everest itself. You find yourself in a spectacular setting, surrounded bymountains such as Nuptse, Khumbusteand Pumori Peaks but interestingly enough,you can’t see Everest from EBC! ReachingEBC is a dream for any trekker. Later youreturn to your lodge in Gorak Shep. (BLD)

DAY 9 Gorak Shep / Pheriche 4,240 metres, 8 hours

Today is probably the highlight of your trek, as you rise very early, braving the coldto view the sunrise over the Himalayas andespecially Mt Everest. After a 3 hours ascentyou reach Kala Patthar (5,545 metres) whereyou have truly breathtaking views. The mostspectacular photos of Mt Everest are takenfrom here! You then return to your lodge inGorak Shep, before beginning the descentto Pheriche where you stay tonight. (BLD)

DAY 10 Pheriche / Tengboche 3,860 metres, 5 hours

Following breakfast you continue the walkback down the valley, re-tracing the trail toTengboche, where you stay tonight. (BLD)

DAY 11 Tengboche / Namche 3,450 metres, 6 hours

Your trek today takes you as far as NamcheBazaar, where you spend the night. (BLD)

DAY 12 Namche / Lukla2,850 metres, 7 hours

Today is the last day of trekking as youcomplete the sometimes steep decent toLukla, where your adventure started. (BLD)

DAY 13 Lukla / Kathmandu

This morning you are taken to the airportto fly to Kathmandu. On arrival you are metand taken to you centrally located hotel.

This afternoon you visit Bhaktapur City orthe “City of Devotees”, as it is known. It isshaped like a conch shell and was the setting

for the Hollywood production The LittleBuddha. Here you visit other architecturalshowpieces such as Lion Gate, the Statue of Bhupatindra Malla, the Picture Gallery,Golden Gate, the Palace of 55 Windows,Bastille Temple and the Bell of BarkingDogs. You also visit Natyapola Templebefore returning to your hotel. (BLD)

DAY 14 Kathmandu

Today is at leisure and is included in theevent of delays on the trek or the flight. (B)


Early this morning you have the chance to undertake an optional flight around MtEverest. After breakfast you are taken to theairport where your trekking tour ends. (B)


55himalayas at dawn, nepal

trekkers & locals, everest base camp trek, nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek Departs


Time to visitBest: Late September to November.Shoulder: March to May but there

is more rain and cloud.


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