India – Bhutan – Nepal – The Journey of Myths, Monuments and Colours

Detailed itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Delhi – pick-up – sightseeing

  After our arrival in Delhi we are greeted at the airport and taken to the Hotel Jay Pee Siddharth. Depending on the time remaining, we undertake a first orienting drive through the centre and see the India Gate as well as further striking buildings from the colonial era. In this way we gain a first impression of the lively rhythm of the metropolis before letting the day come to a relaxed end at the hotel. Overnight at Jay Pee Siddharth or similar.

   

• Day 2: Visit to Delhi and onward journey to Agra – 240 km and approx. 4 hours of driving

  We get to know Delhi as a city full of contrasts, where modern metropolitan life meets deeply rooted traditions. Our first stop is the impressive Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, whose wide inner courtyards and tall minarets open up a fascinating view of historic Delhi. Afterwards we discover further highlights of the city such as the Qutub Minar, a masterly example of Indo-Islamic architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site known for its open community kitchen and its particularly spiritual atmosphere. If time allows, we also visit the India Gate, a monumental war memorial and popular meeting place in the heart of the capital. In the afternoon we drive by private vehicle to Agra, where we let the day end in a peaceful atmosphere. Overnight at Ramada Plaza or similar (B).

• Day 3: Sunrise at the Taj Mahal and drive to Jaipur – 240 km and approx. 5 hours of driving

  Even before daybreak we experience the Taj Mahal in the soft morning light. The sight of this more than 370-year-old masterpiece, whose white marble glows in warm pastel tones in the first rays of the sun, is regarded as one of the most magical moments of any trip to India. The mausoleum, which Emperor Shah Jahan had built in the 17th century as a declaration of love to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, combines perfect symmetry, fine marble inlays and a unique architectural harmony. No visitor escapes the quiet awe radiated by this world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. After breakfast at the hotel we continue our journey on to Jaipur. The capital of Rajasthan delights with its lively atmosphere and the pink-coloured facades of the old town. We enjoy the first impression of this architecturally clearly laid-out city, whose streets extend at right angles to one another and form a harmonious, well-thought-out cityscape. Overnight at Alsisar Haveli (B|D).

  

  

• Day 4: Discover Jaipur and onward drive to Udaipur – approx. 390 km and 5 hours of driving

  In the morning we visit the impressive Amber Fort, which was built in the 16th century and towers majestically on a hill above Jaipur. Its artful courtyards, intricate wall paintings and the famous Mirror Hall, whose thousands of glass elements have shimmered in the light for around 400 years, make this fortress one of the most impressive buildings in Rajasthan. From the upper terraces we enjoy a wide view over the old city of Amber and the surrounding hills — a moment that makes the historical significance and beauty of the region tangible. Afterwards we see the Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, which was built at the end of the 18th century. The delicate facade of pink sandstone with its more than 900 small windows appears like an artistic lace pattern in stone. Originally, the palace served the court ladies as a way to observe the colourful life of the city without being seen themselves. To this day, it is one of India’s most iconic buildings and an absolute photo motif. Around midday we continue our journey on to Udaipur, one of the most romantic cities in India. The 16th-century city sits picturesquely on Lake Pichola and enchants with shimmering palaces, quiet lakeside promenades and the gentle backdrop of the Aravalli hills. Overnight at Kankarwa Haveli or similar (B|D).

• Day 5: Sightseeing in Udaipur and excursion to Ranakpur

  Udaipur captivates us with its City Palace, the construction of which began in the 16th century and which to this day ranks among the largest and most impressive palace complexes in Rajasthan. The artfully decorated balconies, sprawling courtyards and elegant terraces open up ever new, magnificent views across the shimmering Lake Pichola. Together with the narrow, winding lanes of the old town and the gentle hills of the Aravalli range, an almost fairy-tale cityscape emerges that has earned Udaipur the nickname “Venice of the East”. In the afternoon we drive to Ranakpur and visit the famous 15th-century Jain temple, a masterpiece of snow-white marble. The 29 halls and over 1,444 artistically carved pillars — none of which is like any of the others — make this temple an architectural wonder and one of the highlights of our trip. After this impressive visit we return to Udaipur and let the experiences quietly settle. Overnight at Kankarwa Haveli or similar (B|D).

  

  

  

• Day 6: Boat trip on Lake Pichola and return flight to Delhi

  If the water level allows, in the morning we take a boat trip on Lake Pichola and experience Udaipur from a completely new perspective. The palaces and ghats are reflected in the calm water and lend the city a quiet, almost magical atmosphere. Around midday we drive to the airport and fly back to Delhi. The afternoon is at our leisure, so we can let the journey end in a thoroughly relaxed way. Overnight at Jay Pee Siddharth or similar (B|D).

• Day 7: Flight from Delhi to Paro and onward drive to Thimphu (approx. 1.5 hours of driving)

  Today we fly from Delhi to Paro, one of the most impressive approach routes in the Himalayas. On a clear day an impressive chain of snow-capped peaks appears on the horizon, and with a little luck we even make out the distant silhouettes of Everest, Lhotse and Makalu. Especially impressive is the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, which is often clearly visible. Shortly before landing the sacred Jomolhari finally appears, towering impressively above the Paro Valley. After landing and the entry formalities, we first drive about ten minutes into the centre of Paro (2,280 m). Here we visit Paro Dzong and walk across the traditional wooden bridge. After lunch we continue our journey on to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. At an altitude of 2,320 metres we check in at our hotel and can gradually get used to the altitude. Later on we take a relaxed walk around the Memorial Chorten, where numerous Bhutanese carry out their ritual circumambulations to the sound of their prayers — a moving and peaceful experience. Those who feel like it can afterwards stroll through the local craft market. Overnight at Pelyang Boutique or an accommodation of similar category (B|L|D).

  

  

• Day 8: From Thimphu to Punakha (71 km, approx. 2.5 hrs) – Dochu La pass & visit to Chimi Lhakhang

  Today we drive into the lovely Punakha Valley (1,250 m), the former capital of Bhutan and winter residence of the monks. The route leads over the scenically impressive Dochu La pass (3,050 m) with its 108 chortens, which rise harmoniously over three terraces. In good visibility a wide view opens up onto the mighty Himalayan range — and with a little luck even the sacred Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m) shows itself. After arrival in the valley we have lunch and then visit the Chimi Lhakhang monastery, set on a hill. The walk leads through idyllic villages and rice terraces and offers wonderful insights into rural life. The temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman”, and is known for its particular blessing power. After check-in, the afternoon is at your leisure; a small walk in the evening is well worth it to enjoy the warm colours of the Punakha Valley.
  Overnight at Meri Puensum or similar (B|L|D).

• Day 9: Punakha Dzong & onward drive to Gangtey (85 km, approx. 2 hrs) – afternoon hike

  After breakfast we follow the course of the Pho Chu river and cross a suspension bridge before entering the magnificent 17th-century Punakha Dzong — one of the most impressive buildings in Bhutan. Afterwards we leave the main road and drive over the Lawala pass into the high valley of Phobjikha. Along the way we visit Wangdue Dzong and enjoy wide views. After lunch we reach the quiet high valley of Gangtey, an impressive glacial valley. In the afternoon we visit Gangtey monastery, which sits on a hill above the valley, and afterwards undertake a first easy hike (approx. 2–3 hours) through wide alpine meadows and light forests — ideal to let the quiet landscape sink in.
  Overnight at Hotel Dewachen or similar (B|L|D).

  

  

• Day 10: A full day in the Gangtey / Phobjikha Valley – nature, easy hikes & black-necked cranes

  Today we dedicate ourselves entirely to the secluded Phobjikha Valley, which is among the most significant wetlands of Bhutan. Alongside deer, wild boar and various bird species, with a little luck Himalayan black bears can also be spotted. Particularly characteristic are the black-necked cranes, which come here annually in winter from Tibet and, on their arrival and departure, circle the monastery three times — a fascinating custom. In the morning we undertake a roughly 3–4-hour hike. The Gangtey Nature Trail leads through pine forests, small farms and traditional villages as far as the wetlands near Khewa Lhakhang and impressively conveys life in the high valley. A visit to the information centre of the black-necked cranes rounds off the day.
  Overnight at Hotel Dewachen or similar (B|L|D).

• Day 11: Drive from Gangtey back to Paro via Thimphu (170 km, approx. 5 hrs) – hike & sightseeing

  In the morning we set off on the way back to Thimphu. There we first visit the Astrology School before undertaking a roughly 1½-hour hike to Wangditse temple — a beautiful path through fragrant pine forests with wide views across the Thimphu Valley. Afterwards we visit Buddha Point / Kuenselphodrang (2,600 m), from which the city can be overlooked in its full splendour. The 52-metre-high Buddha statue is one of the landmarks of Bhutan. In the afternoon we continue on to Paro. The Paro Valley impresses with its traditional farmhouses, steep pine slopes and rice terraces. An evening walk through the small old town of Paro rounds off the day in atmospheric fashion.
  Overnight at Tashi Namgay Resort or similar (B|L|D).

• Day 12: Ascent to the Tiger's Nest (3,100 m) & visit to Paro

  Today one of the highlights of the trip awaits us — the hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest. After a short drive we reach the starting point. We set off early to make use of the pleasantly quieter morning hours. Taktshang monastery sits spectacularly on a cliff 3,100 metres above the valley and is one of the holiest places in the country. According to legend, Guru Padma Sambhava landed here on the back of a tigress to defeat demons and establish Buddhism in the country. After about 1½ hours we reach the tea house with viewpoint — those who wish can rest here while the rest of the group continues to climb. The entire path lasts around five hours, covers over 900 metres of altitude and numerous steps; good footwear, sun protection and sufficient water are therefore important. The view of the monastery rewards every step. Overnight at Tashi Namgay Resort or similar (B|L|D).

  

  

• Day 13: Flight to Kathmandu and onward drive to Bhaktapur

  
  Today it is time to say goodbye to Bhutan. After a warm farewell our guide takes us to the airport in Paro, and we enjoy a pleasant flight back to Kathmandu. There we are already expected and continue on to Bhaktapur, one of the most charming and atmospheric royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley. If time allows, in the afternoon we take a short walk on our own through the narrow lanes, past artful temples, traditional workshops and lovingly restored brick houses. The quiet and authentic atmosphere of this city makes arriving especially pleasant. Overnight at Hotel Heritage House or similar (B).

  

  

  

• Day 14: Experience Bhaktapur and Patan and drive to Kathmandu

  We begin the day with an extensive visit to Bhaktapur, which is regarded as a true jewel of Newari culture and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The artistic wood carvings, the historic temples and the atmospheric squares such as Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the imposing Nyatapola temple and the atmospheric Dattatraya Square invite you to marvel and convey a vivid picture of the old royal city. Afterwards we continue on to Patan, one of the oldest cities in the Kathmandu Valley. Patan is famous for its extraordinary art tradition and its fine metal and wood works. We stroll through the beautiful Durbar Square, admire the pagodas and temples with their intricate carvings and, if time allows, visit one of the small local craft centres. The quiet, almost meditative atmosphere of Patan makes the visit especially pleasant. In the afternoon we return to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is at our leisure and offers the chance for a leisurely stroll, a café visit or some relaxed browsing in small boutiques and craft shops. Overnight at Kathmandu Guest House or an accommodation of similar category (B).

• Day 15: Discover Kathmandu and relaxed free time in the afternoon

  
  Today we explore the most beautiful spiritual places of the Kathmandu Valley together with a local guide. We visit Swayambhunath, the famous Monkey Temple, which lies high above the city and welcomes us with its peaceful view over the valley. After that we continue on to Pashupatinath, one of the most important Hindu temple complexes in Nepal, and from a respectful distance we experience the ritual ceremonies on the banks of the Bagmati river. A particular highlight is the visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist sanctuaries in South Asia. Its calm, powerful atmosphere and the constant circumambulation of pilgrims make it a place where one likes to linger. In the late afternoon we return to the hotel and can either relax and pack or simply let the impressions of the day sink in. Overnight at Kathmandu Guest House or Hotel Tibet (B).

• Day 16: Flight back home

  Today we say goodbye to Nepal. With many beautiful memories in our luggage we drive to the airport and begin the journey home (B).

  We reserve the right to make changes to the programme due to special events, force majeure or weather conditions.

  B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner