Beyond – Breathtaking – Blessed
Join Sue Barlow on this extraordinary expedition, where every moment is an invitation to connect with the soul of the Himalayas and discover the cultural tapestries and timeless wonders of Nepal and Bhutan.
We begin our journey in Kathmandu, in the bustling markets of Thamel, the timeless treasures of Patan, and the medieval charm of Bhaktapur await, offering a captivating glimpse into Nepal’s rich heritage. Set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains, it is here we will explore the city of Kathmandu, where the past whispers through every cobblestone street.
We then take in the majestic breathtaking beauty on our flight over the Himalayas and venture into the mountain valleys of Bhutan, where time seems to stand still. Nestling amongst the towering mountains, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital, before traversing the landscape to Punakha, where rice paddies stretch to the horizon and ancient dzongs guard the valleys.
Our final part of the journey takes us to where you feel the spiritual energy permeate the air as you take a small trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched majestically on a cliffside on the outskirts of Paro.
As our adventure comes full circle, we return to Kathmandu, where we’ll be captivated by the city’s ancient allure once more, where our journey culminates with a Farewell dinner, weaving together the threads of Nepal and Bhutan into a tapestry of unforgettable memories, before boarding your international flight home.
Woven throughout this tour is a unique blend of yoga, meditation and mindfulness personally curated and facilitated by Sue Barlow.
Kathmandu — Thimphu — Punakha — Paro — Kathmandu
10.5 Nights / 11 Days
Beyond the White Clouds
Friday, 21st March – Monday, 31st March 2025
YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 10.5 Nights Premium, Heritage, or Deluxe Accommodation or similar.
- 10 Daily Breakfasts at Premium, Heritage, or Deluxe Accommodation.
- 08 Lunches at Speciality Restaurants.
- 10 Dinners at Premium, Heritage, or Deluxe Properties.
- All sightseeing as per the program with Private Driver & Air-Conditioned Coach.
- English Speaking Guides.
- Entrance fee to the monuments as per the program & applicable taxes.
- Group Airport transfers within the included package dates.
- 2 International Flights Kathmandu to Paro return.
- Bhutan SDF Sustainable Development Fee
- Applicable Visa for Bhutan.
From $ 8,595*
*AUD per person twin share
Single Room supplements available
Trip Highlights
- Witness the devotion and mesmerising spiritually of the Pashupatinath Temple Sandhya Aarati on the banks of the Bagmati River followed by our Welcome Dinner.
- Explore the culture with a heritage walk of Patan, then wander local bazaars of the Durbar Square.
- Immerse in a Sound Healing Workshop with a Master and get lost in the vibrant bustling markets of Thamel.
- Indulge in a 6 Course Ethnic Nepali & Newari gastronomic experience at Kathmandu’s finest Heritage Hotel.
- Experience one of the largest spiritual Buddhist Stupas in the world, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, carrying mantras and prayers towards the heavens and a blessing ceremony from a Monk.
- Discover the ancient temples of Bhaktapur Square & hands on immersive experience of Pottery Making.
- Witness local artisans on our morning walk through Bhaktapur on a Culinary Food Tour and evening Chef’s traditional Nepali Dinner.
- Explore the majestic Buddha Dordenma and participate in the burning of 108 Butter Lamps at Memorial Chorten
- Explore the capital of Thimphu, its artwork, the Institute of Traditional Medicine & Takin Wildlife Preserve.
- A special visit to a Monastic School to interact and support the local monk children.
- A special Dinner with local Bhutanese Women to interact and exchange stories of their lives and yours.
- Wonder at the breathtaking Dochu La Pass offering a mesmerizing panorama of the snow-capped peaks of the eastern Himalayas, with its iconic 108 memorial chortens.
- Enjoy a short Village walk to Chimi Temple: the auspicious fertility monastery.
- Interact with the Nuns of Bhutan and join their evening chanting and prayers.
- Explore Punakha Dzong one of the most majestic Dzongs in Bhutan.
- Walk along one of the longest Suspension Bridges in Bhutan, perched high above the majestic Po Chu River
- Enjoy our Boutique Hotel Spa, a Himalayan sanctuary nestled on the edge of the national forest in the peaceful emerald hills of Paro.
- Experience the awe and spiritual energy of Tiger’s Nest Monastery the most sacred site in Bhutan, perched majestically on a cliffside on the outskirts of Paro.
- Final Day Breakfast amongst beautiful Gardens, bazaar shopping and Dinner at a boutique heritage property in Kathmandu.
- Day use at a premium property before your late evening international flight home.
- Yoga and meditation with Sue Barlow complete the experience to these vast and beautiful lands of Nepal & Bhutan.
Trip Notes
Tour Exclusions
Cancellation Conditions
From: $8,595*
*AUD per person twin share
Prices are subject to change and availability.
For Tour Enquiries:
Contact Sue Barlow – [email protected]
Payment and travel Bookings:
Contact Paula at Essence of India Tours
[email protected]
CHITWAN WILDLIFE ADVENTURE EXTENSION TOUR
Pre-Tour – Prior to the Main Tour
04 Nights / 05 Days
17th – 21st March 2025
Begin your subcontinent adventure with a 4-night journey to Chitwan Wildlife National Park. We fly to Southern Nepal to commence our adventure including jeep, boat and walking safaris to seek out the famous one-horned rhino and native wildlife. Explore local villages and indulge in premium accommodation. Immerse in the calm of nature exploring the varying landscapes of Nepal prior to embarking on our unique Himalayan experience.
Day 1:
Arrival: Kathmandu International Airport.
Upon arrival and once you have cleared customs, you will be personally met by our representative in the arrivals hall who will assist you to transfer from the airport and check into your hotel.
Day 2:
Today our adventure begins with our flight from Kathmandu to Chitwan in Southern Nepal, a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. We check-in to our deluxe boutique hut accommodation, on our 12-acre Jungle Lodge on the banks of the Rapti River.
This afternoon, we meander the tranquil waters of Chitwan’s rivers on an afternoon Boat Safari including evening sundowner. Enjoy sumptuous all-inclusive meals during our stay at the Lodge.
Day 3:
We take a trilling early morning Jeep Safari navigating the dense forests and Terai plains, seeking out the famous one-horned rhino and native wildlife. Indulge in breakfast amidst the wilderness, witnessing the morning splendour in the calm of nature.
After lunch, we embark on a village walking tour to experience the rural beauty and village life of the ethnic Tharu people and the cultural tapestry of this local ethnic Nepalese community. Afternoon at Leisure.
Day 4:
We begin our day as the jungle awakens, taking another early morning Jeep Safari navigating the dense forests and Terai plains, seeking out the famous one-horned rhino and native wildlife. We return to the Lodge for Breakfast and enjoy the rest of the morning at Leisure.
This afternoon, we embark on a jungle walking safari exploring the varying landscapes of Chitwan National Park with our esteemed Jungle Expert.
Day 5:
Our adventure culminates with our return flight to Kathmandu, where we transfer to our Main Tour Hotel to meet the rest of the group, prior to embarking on our unique Himalayan experience.
Pricing available on request
THE TERRACES RESORT EXTENSION PACKAGE
Post-Tour – After to the Main Tour
1.5 Nights / 2 Days or 2.5 Nights / 3 Days
31st March – 1st April 2025 or
31st March – 2nd April 2025
Extend your journey into a realm of relaxation and well-being with either a 1.5 night or 2.5-night extension package at The Terraces Resort & Spa, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Kathmandu Valley. Take in the breathtaking views and rejuvenate in this serene forrest mountain setting, to complete your Himalayan journey.
Pricing available on request
Payment plans are available for this package.
Prices are subject to availability and change without notice.
Booking terms and conditions apply
For international bookings made outside of Australia a US $15 bank service fee apply.
“It is necessary that we know with absolute certainty
that in essence we are spirit.”
~ Rabindranath Tagore
