Himalayan Odyssey: Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan

Why visit just one destination when you can visit three? The Himalayan Odyssey takes you to Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan in one unforgettable 20-day journey.

Begin in Tibet, where you will visit the stunning Yarlung Valley, believed to be the birthplace of Tibetan civilization. You will also see the famed Kumbum shorten and visit the monasteries of Gyantse and Shigatse before heading to Lhasa to see the city’s many treasures, including the Potala Palace.

Next, venture to Nepal, the “Roof of the World”, where wonders await in its two largest cities. Take in breathtaking views of Kathmandu from the Swayambhunath stupa, where the Lord Buddha gazes serenely upon the surrounding valley. Fly along the high Himalaya to Everest and back aboard a turbo-prop aircraft with specially-outfitted wide viewing windows. In Pokhara, revel in the glory of the mighty Himalaya as you visit sites and explore the city.

Finally, Bhutan is a place of peace and stunning natural beauty, tucked away high in the Himalayas, bordering Tibet and the northeastern provinces of India. The landscape consists of a succession of fantastic, snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. Here you will wander the markets and museums, visit fortresses, hike through the beautiful Punakha valley, and spend two days visiting the sights in Paro, including the “Tiger’s Nest”, Taktsang Monastery.

Outline Itinerary

Day 1  Chengdu

Welcome to Chengdu!

Day 2  Tibet

Fly to Tibet and drive to the scenic Tsedang Valley

Day 3  Yarlung Valley & Samye Monastery

Visit the stunning Yarlung Valley, considered to be the birthplace of Tibetan civilization.

Day 4  Tsedang to Gyantse

The highlight of today’s tour will be a visit to the famed Kumbum chorten.

Day 5  Gyantse to Shigatse

Visit the region’s monasteries.

Days 6-8  Lhasa

Spend the next several days exploring the capital’s many sights, including the Potala Palace.

Days 9-10  Kathmandu

Enjoy two days in Kathmandu, visiting its temples and its vibrant bazaars.

Days 11-12  Pokhara

Explore this beautiful setting in the shadow of the mighty Himalaya.

Day 13  Return to Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu and visit the rug weaving center of Refugee Tibetans.

Day 14  Bhutan

Fly to Bhutan and drive to Thimpu.

Day 15  Thimpu

Explore the markets and museums of Thimpu.

Days 16-17  Punakha

Explore Punakha for two days, visiting the fortress, temples, and enjoying a hike through the beautiful valley.

Days 18-19  Paro

Spend two days visiting the sites of Paro. The highlight will be a visit to Taktsang Monastery, also known as “Tiger’s Nest.”

Day 20  Departure

Activity Level

Be advised that touring will reach altitudes of more than 16,000 feet as we drive over high passes with sleeping elevations consistently above 11,500 ft in Tibet. This tour is subject to mountain weather (high winds, cold morning, possible snowfall) and other high mountain hazards. Circumstances may mean that some days could be long and arduous for some people. Anyone with a history of medical problems, particularly cardiac or respiratory, should consult a doctor before considering this tour. Release of liability and a medical certificate, signed by a physician will be required from all participants. Flexibility, a good sense of humor and an adventurous spirit are essential on this tour.