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KIKINETWORK TRAVEL
kiki@kikinetwork.com
Kiki 608-858-2733
Price per person (Shared Room): $6899.00
Single Room Supplement: add $1099.00
Group size is 10 - 12 participants. A deposit of 40% is required to reserve your place.
Embark on a bespoke journey of discovery where ancient spirituality meets breathtaking natural beauty. This exclusive 13-day Nepal & Bhutan Combined Tour offers a meticulously crafted experience, from witnessing the snow-capped Himalayan peaks of Nepal and delving into the vibrant history of Kathmandu's World Heritage Sites, to finding serene tranquility by Pokhara's Phewa Lake. Then, journey into the "last Shangri-La," Bhutan, where magnificent mountains, pristine forests, and centuries-old traditions will touch your heart and soul, culminating in an awe-inspiring hike to the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery. This isn't just a trip; it's a personalized venture into the profound cultural tapestry and majestic landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas, designed for those seeking an truly unforgettable and deeply enriching adventure.
On arrival in Kathmandu Airport, you would be met and received by our representative & transfer to the hotel. After refreshment sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square. Kathmandu visiting Durbar Square, a complex of palaces, courtyard and temples, built between the 12th and 18th centuries, used to be the seat of the ancient Malla kings of Kathmandu. Overnight at the hotel. (Welcome Dinner)
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (Deluxe Rooms)
After breakfast, proceed for a city tour of Kathmandu. Visit the Swoyambunath Stupa, Boudhanath Stupa and Patan City. Swoyambhunath Stupa, atop the hillock is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal enlisted in the World Heritage Site. The stupa of Boudhanath lies 8kms east of Kathmandu. This ancient colossal stupa is one of the biggest in the world and the center of Buddhism in the world. It was listed in the UNESCO Heritage Monument in 1979. Patan City is an enchanting mélange of palace buildings, artistic courtyard and former palace complex. One remarkable monument here is a 16th century temple dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Krishna, built entirely of stone. (Breakfast)
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (Deluxe Rooms)
After breakfast proceeds for the sightseeing of Pashupatinath temple, Changunarayan Temple & Bhaktapur Durbar square. Pashupatinath Temple is situated 5 km east of Kathmandu, the temple of Lord Shiva, Pashupatinath with two tiered golden roof and silver doors is considered one of the holiest shrines of Hindus. Changunarayan Temple is oldest temple in Kathmandu. After Lunch we will visit Bhaktapur, the city of devotees. This town delivers sightseeing of medieval settlement with a number of cultural and historical squares, traditional skyscraper architectures and so on. Ancient Dattatraya temple, five storied Nyatapola temple, Pottery Square and of course, historical Durbar square are the eye-catching highlights of the town. After Bhaktapur sightseeing, drive back to Kathmandu. (Breakfast)
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (Deluxe Rooms)
After breakfast, Drive to Kathmandu Airport & fly to Pokhara. Pokhara is a place of remarkable natural beauty. The serenity of Phewa Lake and the magnificence of the Fishtail Peak rising behind it create an ambiance of peace and tranquility. Pokhara is a perfect place to see the panoramic view of Himalayan region including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. After refreshment proceed for a day sightseeing Tour of Pokhara including Visit David fall, Gupteshowr (Mahadev) cave, Tibetan Refugee camp, Peace Stupa. (Breakfast)
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi (Super Deluxe room)
After Breakfast drive to Phedi (1hrs). From Phedi, we embark on a 3-hour walk to the charming village of Dhampus, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Annapurna range. As we journey through lush tropical forests and picturesque rice fields, we immerse ourselves in the rural life of Nepal, taking in the breathtaking scenery and observing the daily life of Nepalese farmers. Upon reaching Dhampus, we enjoy a delicious and authentic Nepalese lunch, savoring the tranquility and natural beauty of the region. After lunch, we begin our descent towards Kande (2 hrs. walk), taking in the stunning views of the Annapurna range along the way. Once we arrive at Kande, will drive back to Pokhara. (Breakfast)
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi (Super Deluxe room)
After breakfast, 1 hour boating at Phewa Lake. Shopping & visit around Lakeside. Late Morning or afternoon drive back to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu. (Breakfast)
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guest House (Deluxe Rooms)
Arrival in Paro & transfer to Thimphu:
Thimphu lies in a wooded valley, sprawling up a hillside on the West Bank of the Thimphu Chhu [Chhu means River]. Thimphu is unlike any otherworld capital. Small and secluded the city is quiet and there are never the traffic jams familiar in other Asian Capitals. It is often said that Thimphu is the only world capital without traffic lights. Thimphu’s main shopping street is a delight not so much for what you can buy there, but for the picturesqueness of the architecture and national costume. Beautiful weaves in wool, silk and cotton, basketwork, silver jewelry, thangkas and other traditional crafts of the Kingdom are available in various Handicraft Emporiums.
Morning: Visit the Memorial Chorten, a huge stupa built in memory of the third King who reigned from 1952-1972.Visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved.
Visit the Painting School where traditional art is still preserved. Artists are taught to paint Thangkas here (sacred Buddhist scroll). Visit the Handicrafts Emporium where one can buy Bhutanese textiles and other arts and crafts.
Visit the Weekend market where vendors from throughout the region arrive on Friday afternoon and remain till Sunday. Here you will find indigenous goods, handicrafts, locally produced goods, etc.
Afternoon: Visit Tashichho Dzong – the main secretariat building. It is from here that the King and other prominent civil servants run the country. The Head Abbot and the central monastic body also reside here during the summer. Overnight in Thimphu. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Ariya
After breakfast drive to Visit Pangri Zampa Monastery, situated just beyond Dechencholing Palace (5 km. from Thimphu). This temple was the first residence of Shabdrung Ngawang Narngyal when he arrived in Bhutan in 1616 A.D. Ngawang Chogyel, the great ancestor of the Shabdrung, built it during the first quarter of the 16th century.
We will transfer to Punakha/Wangdue. En-route stop at Dochula Pass (3150 m), 30 km from Thimphu, for tea and biscuits and enjoy a view of the Eastern Himalayan Mountains. From Dochula to Wangdue, it’s another two hours’ drive. Later visit the Punakha Dzong. This is the winter residence of Bhutan’s spiritual leader, the Head Abbot, and the Central Monastic Body. The Dzong is built between two rivers known as “Phochu” (Male River) and “Mochu” (Female River). Visit Punakha Suspension bridge. Overnight in Thimphu (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Ariya
After breakfast drive to Paro, enroute to Wangdue Phodrang Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of 02 rivers. The position of the Dzong is remarkable as it completely covers the spur and commands an impressive view over both the north-south and east-west roads. The main road climbs the length of the spur and on the left, across the river, comes the first glimpse of the picturesque village of Rinchengang whose inhabitants are celebrated stonemasons.
Visit Simtokha Dzong. This is the oldest fortress in Bhutan, built in 1629 A.D. by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It also houses the largest monastic schools in the country.
The Paro valley has kept its bucolic nature in spite of the airport and the existence of development projects. Fields, brown or green depending on the season, cover most of the valley floor, while hamlets and isolated farms dot the countryside. The houses of Paro valley are considered to be among the most beautiful in the country.
Paro is believed to be one of the first valleys to have received the imprint of Buddhism. Afternoon: Visit the National Museum (Ta-Dzong). Once the watchtower for the Rinpung Dzong, it was converted into the National Museum in 1968. The museum stands on a promontory overlooking the Paro valley in all its glory. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong. A flagstone path rises gradually from a beautiful wooden bridge with shingle roofing and abutted by two guardhouses, to the Dzong. Today, the Dzong is the seat of the district administration as well as the home for the monastic school. The central tower (Utse) of the Dzong, with its superb woodwork, is one of the most beautiful in the nation. The Dzong was built in 1645 A.D. Overnight at Paro. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Accommodation: Kaachi Grand
Transfer to Paro for a 03 hrs. hike to the Taktsang Monastery. Taktsang is the most famous of all Bhutanese monasteries. It is perched on the side of a cliff 900 m above the floor of the Paro valley, where the only sounds are the murmurs of the wind, water and the chanting of the monks. The name Taktsang means ‘Tigers Nest’; the Guru is said to have flown on the back of a tigress to the site of the monastery where he meditated in a cave for three months.
The monastery itself is closed to tourists except by special permit. However the one-hour walk to the viewpoint, where there is a small wooden teahouse provides a close-up view of the monastery. It’s also a good warm-up hike if you are going trekking. In the evening visit a farmhouse for “traditional hot stone bath” and local hospitality. Overnight at Paro. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
Accommodation: Kaachi Grand
After breakfast, transferred to the Airport for a flight to Kathmandu. Late Afternoon or evening fly to Home. (Breakfast). Tip Ends.
Accommodation: N/A
From The Beatles and Lonely Planet’s Tony Wheeler in the 1970s, legendary mountaineers, authors and explorers in the ‘80s & ‘90s to present-day parliamentarians, presidents and world-famous artists, the Kathmandu Guest House (KGH) has been housing travelers since 1968. From the iconic Heritage Building built in 1902 to the modern-designed rooms in the new annexes, the KGH has always been at the top of restoration and upgrading every year. Being in the heart of Thamel, the KGH is known as a landmark, as it was the KGH that started the tourist hub of Thamel.
Hotel Barahi Pokhara opened in 1993 in the heart of Lakeside, Pokhara. It is named after the island temple of Barahi located in Phewa Lake just minutes away. Over the past three decades, the Barahi Hospitality & Leisure’s crown jewel establishment has built a reputation for the finest Nepali hospitality, quality customer service and opulent luxury.
Ariya is a contemporary hotel which seamlessly blends local heritage and modern comforts within its graceful architecture of clean lines and open spaces. Located at the southern entrance of the nation’s capital, Ariya’s personally appointed rooms have all the modern amenities for exceptional comfort and luxury. Enjoy our range of facilities, which include banquet, conference hall and lounge, a restaurant offering international and local cuisine, bar, café and the Ariya Touch Spa. Our hotel, nestled in the heart of Olakha, offers a sanctuary of tranquility and luxury. From the warm welcome to the meticulously decorated interiors, every detail reflects a commitment to providing an exceptional experience.
At Hotel Kaachi Grand, unrivaled comfort and luxury will elevate your holiday experience. Our luxurious selection of rooms will satisfy all of your requirements and make your stay unforgettable. Choose from our five categories of rooms, including Classic, Premier, Sky Deck, and Suites, each offering its own unique charm. Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views that accompany our rooms. Whether it's the town view, lush landscapes, or captivating vistas, each room offers a window to a world of beauty. Wake up to the gentle glow of the sun and let the scenic panoramas create an unforgettable backdrop for your stay.
Price per person (Shared Room): $6899.00
Single Room Supplement: add $1099.00
Group size is 10 - 12 participants. A deposit of 40% is required to reserve your place.
Commitment
Planning a trip can be daunting. We want you to relax and know that we are committed to ensuring that you will enjoy your journey. We work hard to create trips that have the feel of casual travel with friends rather than formal tours and plan itineraries that match your interests and fit your budget.
Responsible Travel
Global travel can only succeed if communities benefit from tourism. We hire local operators who value sustainable travel and support their communities.
Inspiring Through Travel
We specialize in journeys of discovery and inspiration. Our adventures are all about local culture—the people, history, art, architecture, and food. Our trips showcase a rich source of inspirational people, landscapes, and cityscapes. Traveling is the time for discovery, exploration, and adventure.
Trusted Support
In case of an emergency, all our guides are licensed and trained to handle situations that may arise. We are always with you to assist in any way we can to make your trip safe and memorable.
Disclaimer
Payments: As soon as we receive your down payment, we will confirm your reservations and at this point, all change and cancellation policies will be in effect. KikiNetwork Travel will send you a finalized itinerary which will contain all necessary information including confirmation numbers, addresses, and phone numbers. We must receive 40% of the trip cost when you register for the trip. The full cost of the trip must be paid 75 days before date of travel, on August 15.
Forms of Payment: We accept ACH transfers (1% fee and .30) and credit cards (American Express, Visa, and MasterCard). There is a 2.9 processing fee for MC and Visa credit cards, and American Express incurs a 3.9% fee. If you pay by check there is no additional fee. You will need to mail the check to Kiki Keating, PO Box 223, Georges Mills, NH 03751.
Airfare/Visas/Special Permits: You are responsible for your flight to the place of the trip departure. I am happy to advise and recommend the best flights for you. Please email me at kiki@kikinetwork.com for more details.
I will inform you of any visa needs, and you must obtain any necessary visas and travel permits for all countries that you will be traveling to or transiting through. Visa and entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality, the length of your stay, and the purpose of your visit. Please make certain that your passport is valid for at least six months after the latest expected end date of your planned trip, as some countries will not allow entry if your passport expires sooner.
Insurance is required for any KikiNetwork Travel trip. KikiNetwork Travel requires an insurance plan with 100% of trip cost insured, $150,000 of emergency assistance and transportation, and a minimum of $50,000 medical evacuation coverage. I am happy to work with you to recommend one of my recommended insurance coverage companies. Please call me directly at 603-858-2733 to discuss and ask questions about travel insurance coverage.
Health and Safety Matters: Please visit your local hospital Travel Clinic. Your doctor will let you know what, if any, vaccinations or other health or safety precautions are necessary or recommended for your destinations. We are not physicians, and nothing we say should be interpreted as professional medical advice. Government health advisories can be found on the internet at: http://www.cdc.gov and http://www.who.int
Cancellations: In addition to any cancellation penalties related to trip components we are not responsible for (e.g. permits, airfare, travel insurance, etc.), the following fees will apply: 75 days or less, no refund AND UP TO to 90 days, 30% of trip cost is refunded.
Cancellation penalties apply as soon as we have received payment. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance is required.
Responsibility/Release and Assumption of Risk: By paying and signing up for a KikiNetwork Travel trip you are agreeing to the following statement; I understand and am aware that during the travel itinerary in which I will participate under the arrangements of KikiNetwork Travel and its agents or subcontractors, certain risks and dangers may arise, including but not limited to the hazards of traveling in unsafe areas or under unsafe conditions, the dangers of civil disturbance and war, unplanned forces of nature, or disease. In consideration of, and as part of the payment for, the right to participate in such travel itineraries, I have and do hereby expressly assume all of the above risks. The terms of this agreement shall serve as a release and express assumption of risk for myself, my heirs, assignees, administrators, executors, and all members of my family, including any minors accompanying me. I have read and fully understand the provisions and the legal consequences of this Release and Assumption of Risk and I hereby agree to all its conditions, especially noting and agreeing to the portion of this provision that releases the Company and its agents, employees, officers, associates, and subcontractors, to the extent permitted by law, from liability for the negligent or reckless acts or omissions of the Company’s affiliated companies or subcontractors.