India Bhutan Nepal and Tibet Tour

India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet Tour is an exciting tour which begins in Delhi, India. Travel to these four countries best known to the world today as the last Shangri-La. The select visitors who make this rare journey discover that there is no other destination like India, Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal which are also known as the land of pure and exotic mysticism. The Indian, Bhutanese, Nepalese and Tibetan people protected their sacred heritage and unique identity for centuries, by choosing to remain shrouded deep in a jealously guarded isolation. The rich Himalayan flora and fauna, dazzling white peaks of the Himalayas, and lush valleys provide Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal with a stunning beauty and aesthetic grandeur. A limited number of people are now allowed every year for carefully organized Bhutan tours for cultural and trekking and vacations.

Best tours in Himalaya Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour , Bhutan culture tour and Everest base camp trekking. Special Nepal Tibet and Bhutan tour package.

Tour Attractions of India Bhutan Nepal and Tibet tour

• Admire the ancient Palaces, Stupas & Temples of Kathmandu Valley in Nepal
• Fly over Mt. Everest and the Himalaya Range between Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan
• Explore the highlights of the Tibet heartland around Lhasa, Potala palace of Dalai Lama
• Enjoy the enchanting valley of Paro, Thimpu and Wangdu / Punakha
• Visit the Taj Mahal, “the epitome of love.”  The beauty of this magnificent monument is such that it is beyond the scope of words.

Day 1

Arrive in Delhi (most flights arrive either in the evening or at night)

You are greeted at the airport. You are then driven to your hotel where you are assisted with your check in. The next day’s plans are briefly reviewed with your travel facilitator.

Day 2

Delhi. Start your exploration of India with a guided city tour of Old Delhi

Drive, walk and ride through the ancient city’s streets and alleys; explore crowded and colorful bazaars. This excursion includes explorations of the Jama Masjid (finished in 1650 AD), the largest mosque in India, and the amazing Red Fort that was finished a decade before the mosque. Both structures were built by Shah Jahan, the emperor that created the Taj Mahal. The Masjid (Mosque) is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and is constructed of red sandstone and white marble. It is an active place of worship and its courtyard can hold 25,000 worshipers. The great city inside the massive sandstone walls of the Red Fort offers visitors a large number of architectural and historical attractions; it was once known as the 8th wonder of the world. The Red Fort was the seat of the Moghul Empire for more than two hundred and fifty years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an amazing example of a blend of Persian, Indian, and European architecture. Once you leave the Fort you will enjoy a rickshaw ride through the alleys of the ancient bazaar at Chandni Chowk. After experiencing the crowded and colorful bazaar you will proceed to your last destination in Old Delhi. The cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi (Raj Ghat) is a simple yet stirring memorial to the father of the nation. Lush lawns extend beyond the enclosure that surrounds the black marble platform occupying the spot where the Mahatma was cremated. An eternal flame burns next to the platform.

Afternoon – enjoy a city tour of New Delhi. This excursion begins with a drive past Safdarjang’s Tomb (1753 AD) while driving to the awe-inspiring Qutab Minar (1193 A.D.). This 239 ft. tall medieval tower is a symbol of victory and a beautiful example of Persian architecture from that period. There is a winding stairway inside the tower that goes up all the way to the balcony at the very top of the tower.  Unfortunately no longer accessible for visitors. The Qutab Minar and its Monuments are also  UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Within the Qutab complex, amidst the ruins of the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, stands one of the legendary Ashoka Pillars. This large iron pillar has withstood the ravages of Delhi’s weather (and recent pollution) and has not rusted in over 1500 years. After the Qutab complex you will be driven to visit the magnificent tomb of the Moghul Emperor Humayun. Delhi has such an abundance of amazing monuments that this Tomb Complex (1562 A.D.) does not quite get the acclaim that it deserves. It is Delhi’s third UNESCO World Heritage Site and its amazing architecture and the elaborate gardens (all currently undergoing restoration) will captivate you. From the tomb you will proceed on a drive to Lutyens’ New Delhi. Time permitting, this drive will include photo opportunities at some of the following attractions – the exterior of the massive and awe-inspiring Rashtrapati Bhawan (known as Viceroy’s House during the British era), Delhi’s landmark structure India Gate, a golden domed Sikh Temple (Bangla Sahib Gurudwara), & the Birla Temple. The last part of this excursion is a drive through Connaught Place, which is New Delhi’s downtown.

Day 3

Delhi – Agra

You are assisted with your checkout from your hotel and driven to Delhi’s railway station where you will board the early morning Express train to Agra for a two hour journey. Your Easy Tours facilitator assists you in locating your assigned seats and has your luggage ported to the appropriate location above your seats. The facilitator stays with you till the train departs. Your Tour Director provides you with a detailed itinerary of the train’s schedule so as to make you comfortable with every step of the journey. Refreshments are served by Indian Railways during this journey – we recommend that you refrain from consuming these (except for the bottled water) as you will have been provided with a boxed breakfast. You are greeted by an Easy Tours Facilitator on your arrival at Agra. You now start your exploration of Agra with a half day city tour of the magnificent monuments of this city. This exploration includes a visit to the famous tomb of Itmad-Ud–Daulah’s. This was built by Mughal Emperor Jehangir’s queen as a memorial to her father. The tomb’s sheer beauty will surprise you – the only reason it does not get more accolades is because it shares the stage with the incomparable Taj Mahal. Like the Taj it has amazingly intricate ‘Pietra Dura’ inlay and lattice marble screens. The mausoleum rests in a walled garden with a view of the river Yamuna. Constructed in the year 1628, most historians believe that its design provided the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. After your exploration of the tomb you will visit the first red sandstone fort of North India, the Agra Fort. It was built in 1565 by India’s greatest Mughal ruler, Emperor Akbar. Its royal audience halls, immense stone courtyards, marble mosque and the private royal chambers give us a glimpse of the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.

Afternoon – Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the incomparable Taj Mahal. The world’s greatest monument dedicated to love is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Taj Mahal was completed by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1653 AD as a memorial to his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal. This spectacular white marble mausoleum was created by about 22,000 skilled craftsmen and it took twenty two years to complete. When you experience the Taj Mahal with an Easy Tours Guide and have them provide unique insights into its innumerable facets, some of their passion for this masterpiece may rub off on you! Explore the amazing Taj and its surroundings till it is time to admire the sun’s rays setting on the facade of one of the world’s finest monuments. Agra’s artists are famous for their creations in inlaid marble.

Day 4

Agra – Jaipur

The day begins with an optional (no charge) sunrise visit to Mehtab Bagh, which is a 500 year old Mughal garden located across from the Taj Mahal on the other side of the Yamuna River. You also have the option of visiting the Taj Mahal again for a sunrise visit (entry fee surcharge applies). If you select either of the two options, you will return to your hotel to freshen up after the visit. You are assisted with your check-out from your hotel and then you are driven to Fatehpur Sikri. Enjoy a guided exploration of this beautiful uninhabited city. It was built by Emperor Akbar between 1570 and 1585 and is constructed primarily out of red sandstone. The Emperor moved his capital from Agra to this city and then abandoned it, returning back to Agra. Visit the tallest gateway in the world, the towering Bulund Darwaza (The Gate of Victory). In the northern part of the courtyard is the superb white marble tomb of Shaik Salim Chishti, built in 1570. Continue on with your drive to Jaipur. Arrive at Jaipur and you are assisted with your check in at your hotel. Jaipur is famous for its carpets, jewelry, & handicrafts.

Day 5

Jaipur

Start your day with an excursion to the Amber Fort & Palace, located 12 kilometers from the center of the City. Just like the Emperors of centuries ago, enjoy the ascent up to the ramparts of the fort on top of a colorfully caparisoned elephant (if you so desire, jeeps are available instead of the elephants). The massive Fort complex was originally built by Raja Mansingh and is one of India’s finest examples of Rajput architecture. Explore the chambers and hallways of the Palace which are famous for their exquisite designs and handcrafted embellishments. Return to the valley beneath the Fort on your elephant or jeep and proceed back to the Pink City.

Afternoon – Proceed for a city tour of the walled city of Jaipur, including the magnificent City Palace. Visit the unique Jantar Mantar magnificent stone observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in 1728. View the ‘Hawa Mahal’ (Palace of the Wind), the intriguing facade built in 1799 to allow the ladies of the court to view the city and bazaar from the windows without being seen themselves. Continue on to visit the City Palace, the former royal residence (a part of it is still occupied by the Royal family and is not accessible to the public), built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. This immense complex also houses a number of museums that offer a large and impressive collection of miniature paintings, costumes, and armory.

Evening – You are driven to a nearby venue where an Easy Tours facilitator is your host at a cultural show and dinner. An alternative to this is that there is usually a cultural performance at your hotel in the evenings. You can choose to watch this instead (if available) and then drive to the home of a Rajasthani family where you can enjoy a traditional dinner with them. This selection needs to be made when you reserve your tour.

Day 6

Jaipur – Delhi (265 km / 5 hrs drive)

Overnight stay at a hotel in Delhi.

Day 7

Fly to Paro and drive to Thimpu (L/D) KB

After immigration and custom formalities, you are met and transferred to Paro, where you can eat lunch in a local tourist restaurant. Visit the National Museum of Paro, before driving to Thimphu, which takes about 1.5hrs. Take a rest in the hotel. Overnight in Thimpu

Day 8

Thimphu sightseeing. (B/L/D)

Thimphu sightseeing includes a visit to the National Library, with a priceless collection of Buddhist manuscripts and a few English version books; Folk and Heritage Museum, which displays the day to day livelihood of typical Bhutanese farmers of the medieval period and their accessories; late King’s Memorial Stupa  and a Traditional Handmade Paper Factory; Painting School, which preserves the art of traditional paintings, sculpturing and wood curving; Majestic Tashichhodzong, which houses office for the king and ministers and National Handicraft Emporium, the best place to look for souvenir from Bhutan. Evening is free to walk in Thimphu City. Overnight in Thimpu

Day 9

Thimphu – Punakha-Thimpu (148 Kms.) 7 hrs. (B/L/D)

After breakfast proceed to Punakha across the Dochula pass (3,100m). The pass offers the most spectacular view of the greater eastern Himalayas including the highest peak in Bhutan. Enroute, make a short excursion of about an hour to the Temple of the Divine Madman, also well known as the Temple of Fertility. It is fascinating to walk through the villages and the rice fields. Arrive in Punakha, the capital city of Bhutan till 1955 and still the Je Khenpo. The Chief of Abbot resides there during the winter season. After lunch visit Punakha Dzong built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1638 and situated at the junction of Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. Evening drive back to Thimpu. Overnight in Thimpu

Day 10

Thimphu – Paro (B/L/D)

Drive to Paro and Transfer to the trail-head and begin your trek to Takstang (Tiger’s Lair) monastery, Bhutan’s most famous sight. Your guide can arrange a pony/horse ride uphill till the Cafeteria, but one must be able to walk after that. Proper trekking boots or good walking shoes are necessary for this hike. Those who choose not to hike can stay back with the driver and tour around Paro. Overnight in Paro

Taktshang – Tiger’s Nest: Taktshang or ‘Tiger’s Nest’ as it is often referred to for Taktshang Pelphung monastery, is one of the most venerated and famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. It is located on the face of a 900 m sheer cliff. An impressive and unmissable site, but accessible only by walking or by mules/pony. Taktshang was rebuilt by the population of Tsento village. Again, in April of 1998, a major fire destroyed the main structure of the building and its contents (some believe it to be arson). Reconstruction began in 2000 and was completed and consecrated after extensive efforts and financial support of the governments as well as donors.

Day 11

Paro- departure to Kathmandu Nepal

Early morning drive to Paro Airport then a flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, your tour guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After some refreshment, you will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Kathmandu Durbar Square: Situated in the heart of the city, Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the important monuments you will visit during your trip to Nepal. This complex of temples and the old royal palace (Durbar) of the city represents Nepalese art and architecture linking the old with the new. This site has played a central role in the political, cultural and artistic life of the country. The oldest monument dates back to 12th century where Durbar square flourished in the 17th – 19th century during the reign of Malla and Shah Monarchs. In this tour in Nepal, you will have an opportunity to see Kumari, the living goddess. ‘Kumari Chhen’, a building with beautifully carved doors and windows, houses a little girl whom people worship as a living goddess of power. People believe it will bring good luck if they get chance to look at her. Get ‘Darshan’ (glimpse) of her and be blessed for your onward trip in Nepal. Overnight in hotel (D)

Day 12

The main highlights of today’s tours are Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath temple and Bouddhanath Stupa. Swayambhunath Stupa aka the Monkey Temple

Swayambhunath (the self-existent) is a widely known Buddhist monument on a hillock, west of central Kathmandu. The shrine is approximately 2600 years old and is still glorious and eye-catching for visitors. Because of the presence of holy and tricky monkeys, the stupa is also known as the Monkey Temple. Because of the visit to this site by the famous Indian emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, this monument has become an historical pilgrimage since ancient time. A common temple for both Hindus and Buddhists in the complex of stupa symbolizes religious tolerance in Nepal.

Patan Durbar Square: Located 7 Km south east of Kathmandu and founded in the 3rd century AD, Patan is the oldest of the 3 cities in the valley. Patan, historically known as Lalitpur (city of fine arts), has fascinating Hindu and Buddhist monuments with finest craftmanship since time immemorial. The royal palace square, surrounding shrines and courtyards are praiseworthy monument.. The palace, a number of pagodas, Shikhara style Krishna temple made of stone, classic craftsmanship, nearby five– storied Kumbheshwar temple and the golden temple are some of the main highlights of Patan. Though we can see ancient temples, Stupas and monasteries in the city, Durbar square consists of monuments from 16th and 17th century in general.

Pashupatinath Temple: Being a Mecca for Hindus of the world, the temple has its origins way back in the early Kirant period. However, the present structure dates back to early 18th century. The main Shiva temple is most noted for its gold-painted roof and silver coated doors in each of four directions. This holy site is also famous for an open public crematorium. See the devotion of people to Pashupatinath, dedicated Sadhus- the holy men, post death rituals and the strange monkeys in area of the shrine.

Bouddhnath Stupa: Bouddhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, is set in the octagonal Mandala design. It is a must visit site for the Tibetan Buddhists since the legend of the Stupa is related to the Tibetans. It’s almost a Tibetan settlement area with dozens of monasteries in its surroundings. This ancient Stupa has 108 images of deities and 147 insets of prayer wheels adorning the base of the huge dome. Overnight in hotel (B)

Day 13

Optional early morning mountain flight tour to Mount Everest. In the afternoon, we will tour Bhaktapur Durbar Square. In the dusk, you will capture the sunset view from Nagarkot.

Optional Mountain flight to Everest: Using a modern jet-stream aircraft, enjoy glorious the Himalayas from the height of approximately 25,000 feet. This breathtaking journey takes you close to the highest point of the world – Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga (3rd highest peak), Makalu, Cho-Yu, Lhoste, as well as the Tibetan plateau. During your flight above the clouds, you will have a once in a lifetime approach to the glaciers, lakes, rivers and gorges from your individual window. Enjoy aerial photography capturing the magnificent landscapes of Nepal. As an alternative of this one-hour flight, you can take helicopter flight. Nyatpola Temple Bhaktapur Durbar Square: This Square is an open museum holding exciting palaces, courtyards, a royal bath, sculptures, pagodas, Shikhara style temples and a Buddhist Monastery along with amazing architecture. In other words, this is the most beautiful Durbar you will visit during your Nepal tour. Though the 1934 earthquake damaged its structure, the remaining monuments are the finest examples of medieval excellence. Near the square, you will visit the traditional painting school, the dying art of Nepal which is a wonderful souvenir. In addition to the palace complex, there is a five story temple with the most exquisite architecture, the Pottery Square, Dattatraya Square and Peacock window.

Nagarkot: Enjoy a countryside drive after your days in Kathmandu. Nagarkot, literally known as ‘the fort of the town’, was at one time an army training center. In recent years, it has been developed as a resort village. Located 15 Km from the Bhaktapur main city and 30 Km east of Kathmandu, it is an ideal place to enjoy hide and seek with the sun. Besides sunrise and sunset view, this is also one of the best places to enjoy the glimpse of the mountain range if the weather is clear. Overnight in resort (B)

Day 14

This morning, you will enjoy a sunrise view from your hotel at Nagarkot. After breakfast, we will drive to Chitwan, 180 Km southwest of Kathmandu; 5-6 hours in driving distance. Alternatively, you can fly to Chitwan from Kathmandu airport which takes just 25 minutes.

Village tour in Chitwan: In the afternoon, we will visit a local village. As our Nepal tour package offers opportunities to discover Nepalese culture and lifestyle, today you will visit the Tharus, the indigenous people of the southern lowland of Nepal. After observing their daily life and visiting the museum, we will be return to our resort where you will enjoy the cultural Stick Dance of Tharus. Overnight in resort (BLD)

Day 14

Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park

Includes an elephant back safari, nature walk, a visit to the elephant breeding camp and canoeing along the Rapti River.  You have the opportunity to observe various flora and fauna including baby elephants, rhinos, crocodiles and a number of bird species.

Chitwan National Park: Established in 1973, this park has been a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1984. The core area of the park is 932 Km and the buffer zone is 750 Km. As one of the best national parks in south Asia, it is home to 600 plant species, 539 birds, 56 mammals and 49 amphibians and reptiles. One Horned Rhinos, Royal Bengal Tigers, monkeys, leopards, wild boar, wild dogs, wild cats, python, gharial, and marsh crocodile are found in Chitwan National Park. Moreover, hornbills, peacock/hen, red-headed trogon, woodpeckers are some of the local bird species here. Paradise flycatcher, parakeets and Indian pitta are the summer migrants. On the other hand, Siberian birds like pintails, waterfowl and bar-headed geese can be seen in winter. Overnight in resort (BLD)

Day 16

Chitwan to Pokhara

Today we drive to Pokhara (240 Km, 08 hrs.) which is another charming town you will visit. On the way, you will enjoy landscape photography along with the beautiful views of the  countryside. Overnight in hotel (B)

Day 17

Pokhara Tours

Early morning sunrise tour. After breakfast and in the afternoon, we will visit a cave, waterfall, river gorge, temple and the coast of the lake.

Pokhara: The term ‘Pokara’ is the deviated form of ‘Pokharee’ which means ‘Lake’. So, simply speaking, Pokhara is the city of lakes. However, this second largest town of Nepal is equally famous for natural caves which are older than 5000 years. David Fall is one of the natural wonders where water enters the earth that can be seen from the lower part of Gupteshwar – the Cave of Hidden God. Sarankot is an ideal hill from which to enjoy paragliding and a breathtaking scene of the sunrise above the Himalayas. The town is most famous Fewa Lake with a shrine on its island. Pokhara, the most visited town by the outsiders and native tourists, is also the choice of those who are fond of boating. Overnight in hotel (Bpokhara sarangkot sunrise

Day 18

In order to complete your tour in Nepal, today we are leaving Pokhara for Kathmandu.

It’s a 6 hour scenic drive (200 Km). If you are thinking of an optional flight with extra cost , it takes just 30 minutes to arrive in Kathmandu airport. Today you have a free afternoon for additional exploration/relaxation or for preparation for your Tibet tour. Overnight in hotel (B)

Day 19

Fly to Lhasa . (B)

Fly to Lhasa and enjoy the views of the Himalayas including Mount Everest. Upon arrival in Lhasa airport, you are met by your Tibetan Guide and transferred to your hotel in the city. Today, just take easy to acclimate to the high altitude. This is a free afternoon for complete rest.  Overnight in Lhasa

Lhasa: Located at the foot of Mount Gephel, Lhasa is the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China, and is a city that has captivated the fascination of the West for centuries. Lhasa is famous as the traditional seat of the Dalai Lama and is a place that is revered by every Tibetan. In the 7th century, a powerful and visionary king called Songtsen Gampo conquered many tribes, united Tibet and moved the capital from Yarlung to Lhasa. Apart from the amazing monasteries that surround the city as well as the bustling, tourist friendly Barkhor Street, it is the Potala Palace that captivates the mind, the eye and the soul. The Potala Palace is perched atop the Red Hill and dominates the skyline. It was built by Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. Later on, the palace became the residence of the Dalai Lamas. It still holds items such as murals, Holy Scriptures and sutras that are invaluable to Buddhism. The city has approximately 255,000 inhabitants and stands at an altitude of approximately 3,650 m. Some of the aesthetically as well as historically important sites in Lhasa are the Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery and Norbulingka Palaces.

Day 20

Lhasa sightseeing

In Lhasa today you will visit Drepung Monastery, Jorkhang Temple and the Barkhor Street.

Barkhor Street: Located in the old area of Lhasa City, Barkhor Street is a very ancient circular street surrounding the Jokhang Temple. The Tibetan people are very proud of this area. As a symbol of Lhasa, this street is also a must see for the tourists. It is said that in 647, the first Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo (617 – 650) built the Jokhang Temple. Due to its magnificence, it quickly attracted thousands of Buddhist pilgrims. As a result, a trodden path appeared. That is the origin of Barkhor Street. Today, many pilgrims hold the prayer wheels and walk clockwise from dawn to dark. Also, you can see some pilgrims walking or progressing body-length by body-length along the street. Some of them are teenagers or have walked thousands of miles to reach this sacred place. The manner in which they express their piety makes you understand the holiness of this area.

Drepung Monastery: The Drepung Monastery is the largest in Tibet. Its foundations were laid in 1416 by Jamyang Chojey, a direct disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelukpa Schools. This beautiful monastery is atop the Gambo Utse Mountain, 5 kilometers from the western suburb of Lhasa. Before the Cultural Revolution of 1959, the monastery housed approximately 15,000 monks. The ground floor of the monastery is built on the caves and temples of Jamyang Chojey. There are also two white pagodas on which the buildings of this monastery rests. In the southwest corner, there is the Ganden Potrang which is a building that was constructed by the second Dalai Lama in 1530. At the center, there is the Coqen Hall with a large square before it. A wide series of stone stairs will lead to the Entrance Hall. Once you enter, you can see the Sutra Hall which is supported by 183 pillars. Inside the monastery there are statues of Sage Manjushri Tsong Khapa and Kwan-yin Bodhisattva. The Coqen hall has the conch of Jamyang Chojey.

Jokhang Temple: The Jokhang Temple, a revered Buddhist temple located in the Barkhor Square of Lhasa, built by King Songtsen Gampo around 642 AD. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was originally called, Rasa Tulnang Tsuklakang (House of Mysteries). In the 11th century a learned Buddhist monk named Atisha, taught here and it was after that, that the Jokhang temple gained recognition. Today, the temple covers an area of about 25,000 sq. ft. The Jokhang temple is a four-storied structure. The style is Indian in its approach but has been well blended with Nepalese as well as Tibetan influences. The roofs of the temple are gilded with bronze. The rooftop has statues of two golden deer surrounding a Dharma wheel. This is one of the most revered images in all of Tibet and for the practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism. As you enter the Jokhang temple complex, you can see many shrines and rooms that are well decorated. The primary chamber is a hall which houses the Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue, one of the most venerated objects in Tibetan Buddhism. There are also other statues of Guru Rimpoche (Saint Padmasambhava), King Songtsen Gampo, his wives, Wen Cheng of China and Bhrikuti of Nepal.

Day 21

Lhasa Sightseeing

In the morning you will visit the Potala Palace and in the afternoon, Sera Monastery and Norbulingkha Palace.

Potala Palace: The Potala Palace is perched atop the Red Hill and dominates the skyline of Lhasa. The Palace can be divided into two sections, the White Palace and the Red Palace. It was built by Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century and used as his center of meditation. It was in 1645 under the fifth Dalai Lama, Lozang Gyatso, that the Palace increased massively as the White Palace was completed. The construction of the Red Palace began in 1690 and was completed within a span of 4 years. It was the residence of the Dalai Lamas, until the 14th Dalai Lama escaped to India in 1959. Today, the Palace serves as a state museum of China. The Palace has vast inward-sloping walls and has many windows. Its roofs are flat at various levels. The central part of this group of buildings is quadrangular. This towering central portion of Potala is called the Red Palace. It contains the principal halls and chapels and shrines of past Dalai Lamas. It still holds items like murals, Holy Scriptures and sutras that are invaluable to Buddhism. Today the Potala Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited structures in the world.

Sera Monastery: In 1419 Jamchen Chojey also popularly known as Sakya Yeshe, one of the two principal disciple of Tsongkhapa, founded Gelukpa University, which later came to known as the Sera Monastery, and became one of the Great Three Gelukpa Monasteries of Tibet. The Sera University Monastery had three basic schools. The first is the Sera Mey Dratsang which was built in 1419 for the purpose of providing basic information on the doctrines of Buddhism and for the orientation of the monks. The second was the Sera Jey Dratsang, built in 1435, which was the largest, and was reserved for itinerant monks. The third one known as Ngagpa Dratsang which was built in 1559, was a school for the teaching of the Gelukpa dogmas. Scriptures written in gold powder, fine statues, scent cloth and unparalleled murals can be found in these halls. Colorful debates on Buddhist doctrines are held here and these employ a style distinctive from those at Lhasa’s other famous monasteries.

Norbulingkha Palaces: In 1755, the seventh Dalai Lama built a park and a modest palace as his summer residence. Later on other structures were added but the most important contribution was made by the present 14th Dalai Lama, who added chapels, gardens, fountains and pools to the east of what the seventh Dalai Lama had built. This collection of palaces, also known as the Norbulingka Palace are located three kilometers west of the Potala Palace, which was the winter palace. Norbulingka, when translated, literally means the Jeweled Park. Among others, the most visited one is the palace of the 14th Dalai Lama which was built in a fusion style of both Tibetan and Western from 1954-1956.The living quarters have a modern touch and include furniture and a European style bathroom. There is also a zoo at Norbulingka, which was built to keep the animals which were given to the Dalai Lama. The Austrian mountaineer, Heinrich Harrer, helped the 14th Dalai Lama build a small movie theatre here in the 1950s. In 2001, UNESCO inscribed Norbulingka on its World Heritage List as part of the “Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace”. The Norbulingka garden opens for general public everyday at 9 AM till 12 noon.

Day 22

Fly from Lhasa to your next destination or home via Katmandu or Delhi or Beijing

Formalities

• Passport should be valid for 6 months more at the time of travel.
• Indian visa must be gotten in advance before flying to India.
• Bhutan visa is pre-processed by us with your passport copies
• Nepal visa is available at the airport. You need USD 40 cash and one photograph
• For Nepal visa 15 days multiple entry. For 30 days need USD 40 per person
• Tibet visa and Tibet travel permit also pre-processed by us. If you are going to Tibet from Nepal, a Chinese visa must be issued from Nepal. If you plan to enter China from your home, a China visa must be received from your home country.