Compare East Himalayan Kingdoms by World Expeditions vs Meaningful India by Sky Vacations

Day 1 Join Kathmandu

You will be met by a World Expeditions representative on arrival and transferred to the Radisson hotel. In the afternoon there is a half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu (including Pashupatinath and Bouddhanath). Evening drinks are held in the hotel for all World Expeditions clients arriving today. Drinks and snacks will generally be served from 6:30 pm until 7:15 pm, and this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members before heading out to dinner.

meals : Array

Day 2 Fly Bhadrapur, drive to Darjeeling

Early transfer to the airport for our flight to Bhadrapur. On arrival we will meet our Indian guide and then transfer to our chartered bus for the drive to Darjeeling.As the road climbs up to Darjeeling we gain impressive views back down to the Indian plains.On arrival in Darjeeling we savour the cool mountain air and our first glimpse of the snow capped Himalaya.This evening a pre-trip briefing will be given.

meals : B,L,D

Day 3 In Darjeeling

Darjeeling is set on the top of a wooded ridge commanding views both to the plains and to the high mountains including Kangchenjunga. During the day we will organise sightseeing to the Tibetan Refugee Centre and also to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. We also visit one of the famous tea plantations that were established in the middle of last century. Later we explore the local bazaars and appreciate the rich variety of peoples including Sherpas, Tibetans and Bengalis who have made Darjeeling their home. A visit to the Tea Planters Club is also recommended, for it was here that the British inter-war expeditions stayed before assembling their Sherpa crews that would accompany them on the long march through Sikkim and across Tibet to the base of Everest.

meals : B,L,D

Day 5 Drive to Gangtok (6 hrs)

This spectacular drive winds through the rice paddies and pine forests of the Sikkim foothills. The drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim taking around five to six hours. Overnight Norkhill Hotel.

meals : B,L,D

Day 6 In Gangtok

Gangtok has been the capital of Sikkim since the 19th century. On a clear day it affords excellent views up the Zemu Valley to Kangchenjunga. We have scheduled visits to the Cottage Industries Emporium with its fine array of traditional crafts including hand woven carpets, shawls and hand carved furniture. We also visit the Tibetan Institute where many valuable manuscripts are stored after they were brought to Sikkim in 1959.

meals : B,L,D

Day 7 Drive to Kalimpong (6hrs)

En route we visit Rumtek Monastery, 24 km from Gangtok. The Monastery is affiliated with one of the important Tibetan Buddhist sects - the Kargyapa sect. When the leader of this sect escaped from Tibet in 1959 he was invited to settle in Sikkim. With an influx of funds the monastery was restored to its traditional Tibetan architectural lines in the 1960's - the original monastery having being destroyed by an earthquake. From Rumtek the drive to Kalimpong takes a further four hours, with time that afternoon to visit the bazaar and appreciate the time when the town was an important trading post between India and Tibet.

meals : B,L,D

Day 8 Drive to Phuentsholing (6/7hrs)

We drive back down to the Indian Plains and the Indian-Bhutan border. After clearing Indian immigration and customs we drive to an impressive archway that marks the formal entry to the Kingdom of Bhutan.  Here you will be met by our Bhutan guides who will accompany you to the nearby hotel in Phuentsholing for your briefing and overnight stay.

meals : B,L,D

Day 9 Drive to Thimphu (6/7hrs)

The drive to Thimphu winds up from the Indian plains to the Thimphu Valley. On arrival in Thimphu we transfer to our hotel for overnight accommodation. Thimphu has been the capital since 1960 (the previous being Punakha). This afternoon we will pay a visit to the main Secretariat building - the Tashichho Dzong is the most prominent building consisting of the main Secretariat, the National Assembly Hall, the Office of the King and the Throne Room. Its remarkable construction is in traditional Bhutanese style without the use of nails or metal of any kind. We also visit the large Stupa dedicated to the late King HM. Jimge Dorji Wangchuk, regarded as the founder of modern day Bhutan.

meals : B,L,D

Day 10 In Thimphu & transfer to Wangduephodrang via Dochu La

We spend the morning enjoying the charm of Thimpu. The town is by no means large and easily explored on foot. There are some interesting markets and bazaars, and the Handicraft Emporium with famous weaving, woodcarvings and paintings and the Post Office sells Bhutan's world renowned stamps. before we drive for about three hours to Wangduephodrang (locally known as “Wangdi”), changing climatic zones from mountainous to tropical. On the way, we cross over Dochu La, a 3150-metre-high pass marked by prayer flags and a chorten and, if the weather is fine, a view of the eastern Himalaya including the highest mountain in Bhutan, Mt Gangar Punsum (7520m). We drive through forests of rhododrendron and magnolia, before the road descends into the warmer lowlands around Punakha. Overnight Wangdi Kyichu Resort. *On the 24th June 2012, the beautiful Wangduephodrang Dzong was completely destroyed by fire. It was one of the oldest and most substantial dzongs in Bhutan built in 1638. Renovations were underway when the fire started and so most of the historic relics had been put into storage and were saved from the devastation of the fire. Re-building is already underway to restore the dzong to its former glory.

meals : B,L,D

Day 11 Drive to Paro via Punakha Dzong

This morning we visit the Punakha Dzong, which once served as the old capital of Bhutan. This remarkable fortress was built in 1637 between two rivers and has survived many glacial floods and fire. Every February there is a procession known as the Punakha Serda to commemorate the victory over the Tibetans. No journey in Bhutan is complete without a visit to this fascinating and visually stunning Dzong. Transfer to Paro, approx, 5 hrs. Our sightseeing program in Paro includes visits to the Paro Dzong and the even older Ta Dzong that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. While we are not permitted inside the monastery at the Dzong we can take a look around inside this impressive building which is the monastic and administrative centre for South-West Bhutan. Ta Dzong is the original fort and has been carefully transformed into a museum with excellent displays of all facets of Bhutan's rich cultural history. Old costumes and battle dress, together with priceless jewellery and specimens of the kingdoms unique flora and fauna are included within the museum.

meals : B,L,D

Day 12 In Paro, Taktsang Monastery

We drive to the foot of the Taktsang Monastery - the famous Tigers Nest Monastery said to have been one of the divine resting places of the Guru Ringpoche. However, although much of the building was once destroyed by fire it is now restored and it is still worthwhile to ascend the walking trail to appreciate the monasteries breathtaking location on a cliff edge about 800 metres above the valley floor. The rest of the day is free to complete sightseeing and purchases before our early morning departure the following day.

meals : B,L,D

Day 13 Trip concludes in Paro

Early morning transfer to the airport and onward arrangements.

meals : B

Day 01 Arrive Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by your Sky Vacations ambassador who will assist with with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore, unwind and rejuvenate.

Day 02 Delhi

This morning after breakfast proceed for a guided tour of Old Delhi. Hop on to a cycle rickshaw and ride through the rugged-rustic lanes of Old Delhi. The tours take you through some iconic streets like Chandni Chowk and other important landmarks of Old Delhi including mansions and colourful bazaars. During the tour you will be savouring some hot Jalebi’s a traditional Indian sweet and Samosa at a nearly 200-year-old sweet shop. Drive past the Red Fort made of Red sandstone built by Emperor Shahjahan. Drive around Lutyens Delhi which was also designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Drive past India Gate which was built to commemorate the undivided British Indian Army who died in World War I (1914-21). A stone’s throw away from India Gate lies the Rashtrapati Bhavan or Presidential Palace built between 1919 to 1925.

Post Lunch visit Mukti Ashram Founded in 1991 by Nobel Peace Laureate Mr. Kailash Satyarthi and managed by Bachpan Bachao Andolan, Mukti Ashram was formed as the first centre in India for rescued child laborers. It is a transit center where children stay for a short period of time till their repatriation. The transit rehabilitation center provides a holistic support for rebuilding lives of these children. The ashram receives custody of rescued child laborers on the order of Child Welfare Committee (CWC). In addition to care and protection, the centre also caters to medical, psychological, recreational, social and learning needs of Children.

Day 03 Delhi / Agra

After breakfast its time to head to the medieval city of Agra located on the banks of the Yamuna River, founded by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1506. During the Mughal reign, began the golden age in Agra. It remained the capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Check in and have lunch.

Following lunch proceed to visit the Agra Fort. The Fort was built by Akbar in 1565 and further developed by successive generations. This well-preserved fortress built of red-sandstone is a UNESCO site and dominates a bend of the river Yamuna- with a magnificent view of the Taj. The interior boasts of many grand buildings which include the Royal Pavilions, the Diwan-e-Am (hall of public audience) and Diwan-e-khas (hall of private audience) usually reserved for other kings and dignitaries.

At sunset visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday) – Situated on the banks of the River Yamuna, a monument of love built by the Mughal Emperor Shāh Jahān in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, also known as Mumtāz Mahal. It took 22 years to build. The white marble came from Makrana in Rajasthan and the red sandstone from Fatehpur Sikri. Precious stones like jade, crystal, turquoise, lapis lazuli, sapphire, jade, coral and diamonds were brought from far-flung places in Tibet, China, Sri Lanka, Persia and Afghanistan. It is believed that a fleet of 1000 elephants was used to transport the material. Post the tour return to the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 04 Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Abhaneri / Jaipur

Post breakfast check out and proceed to Jaipur. Enroute, stop at Fatehpur Sikri – the Ghost Capital of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fortress is a UNESCO world heritage site and built entirely of red sandstone, except the tomb of the Saint Salim Chisti, which in stunning contrast, is made of pristine white marble.

Post lunch continue to Jaipur , stop at Abhaneri village and visit Chand Baori the oldest surviving step well in Rajasthan and the most photogenic step well in India. It was built by the King named Chanda or Chandra of the Nikhumbha dynasty and therefore named after the King. The time of the stepwell is 8-9th CE making it 1200-1300 years old. Yes, it is older than Taj Mahal. The city back in the days was called Abha Nagri. When you stand next to this 13 story deep step well with 35,000 symmetric triangular steps leading to the water at the bottom, you cannot but be mesmerized. After the visit continue to Jaipur.

Day 05 Jaipur

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Jaipur, Stop for a photo visit of the honeycomb designed Hawa Mahal also known as the “Palace of Winds”. Built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this is one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. It is an integral part of the City Palace, an extension of the Zenana (women’s chambers) from where the royal ladies, who lived in seclusion, observed life on the outside without showing themselves.

Continue your tour and visit the Amber Fort – where you ascend the hill “Maharaja-style” on Elephant back. The Fort is known for its exquisite mirrored halls and lofty ramparts and is a superb example of Rajput architecture. It is strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the lake. This magnificent fort has recently been wonderfully restored bringing back some of its past glory. During return, Continue and enjoy a photo-stop at Jal Mahal Palace.

Post lunch proceed for shopping. At around 5 pm proceed to Dera Mandawa where we shall arrange for Rangoli an art form, originating in the Indian subcontinent, in which patterns are created on the floor or the ground using materials such as colored rice, dry flour, colored sand or flower petals. It is usually made during Diwali, Onam, Pongal and other Hindu festivals in the Indian subcontinent. Designs are passed from one generation to the next, keeping both the art form and the tradition alive.

Later participate in cooking demo followed by dinner with a respected Indian family.After dinner return to the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 06 Jaipur / Rohet

This morning after breakfast at your hotel, its time to head to Rohetgarh, enroute visit Tilonia, a small village in the desert regions of Rajasthan, India, is home of the Barefoot College. Since 1972, the College has worked to improve the lives of the rural poor by addressing basic needs for water, electricity, housing, health, education and income. Tilonia helps these rural artisans to market their products in India and around the world. With new markets for their crafts, their livelihood is improved and the traditional crafts are continued. Nearly 400 artisans earn supplemental income through sewing, needlework, embroidery, tie-dying, block printing and weaving. Designs and production methods draw on Indian craft traditions that are centuries old – but create modern opportunities for these rural women and men.

Proceed to Rohet and remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 07 Rohet

After breakfast, it’s time to explore an unknown side of India by taking a rural day drive seeing the unspoilt, simple, and pure rural countryside in its full glory. You traverse barren landscapes and witness colourful communities with varied wildlife and avian life. You experience the simplicity and purity of the Indian village life that inexplicably will make you question the complexity of your own. This unique and authentic rural experience is complete with the opportunity to interact with different people from different communities first hand, visit their dwellings, understand their lives, sample rural cuisine and witness other aspects of their day.

Start off-roading and begin with a thrilling dry riverbed drive. The dry riverbed drive is a unique signature experience of Overlander India. Experience 4×4 exhilaration first hand as you power and navigate your way through the cracked crevasses and uneven challenges of a dry riverbed. Various species of birds and some antelope like black buck can be observed as part of the natural habitat. Visit to the Dhani of a family from the Bishnoi community, agricultural communities live in family hamlets of hutments in the midst of their lands. A visit to such communities including the Bishnois, who are known for their conservation and preservation of the environment, provides you with the rare inside into the lives of the world’s first environmentalists and the founders of the “Chipku” movement. Visit an elementary village school to see what the government does for children, we organize a stop at a rural elementary school. Here, a small rural school greet you with a cheerful “good morning” and a prayer as your host explains everything about educating village children. Visit to the Dhani of a family from the Pittal community. See a rural kitchen in action with bread making and sampling. Inspite of being a desert void of fresh produce, the Thar is known for its delicacies, flavours and spices. You get the privilege of seeing a functioning rural kitchen and sample freshly made local breads. Your lunch comprises of vegetables grown in an organic garden, but made in a “smoked” wood village stove. Learn how to craft and Indian “chapatti” with your hands and enjoy lunch in the pure village air. After a truly unforgettable experience you return to your hotel by sundown with memories of a rural visit completely off the beaten path unlike anything else you will experience during your visit to India. Stay overnight at your hotel.

Day 08 Rohet / Ranakpur / Udaipur

This morning post breakfast check out from hotel and drive to Udaipur. Enroute visit Ranakpur, renowned for some marvellously carved Jain temples in marble, created in the 15th century AD during the reign of Rana Kumbha. Later we continue our drive to Udaipur. Arrive Udaipur and check in hotel. Udaipur is a city built around shimmering, clear blue-water lakes that reflect the green of the surrounding Aravalli hills. The famous Lake Palace, that seem to emerge from the peaceful Lake Pichola, whisper memories of tradition and glory. The city of Udaipur is gathered around three lakes – Pichola, Fateh Sagar and Udai Sagar. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 9 Udaipur

This day proceed for tour of Udaipur visiting City Palace, built in 1725, is actually a conglomerate of eleven palaces overlooking the sprawling Lake Pichola. Next visit The Crystal Gallery, one the most lustrous attractions for tourist showcasing the rare and precious crystal from the royal treasure. The gallery is nearly 129 years old (at the time of writing) with the magnificent collection of Oslers Crystals. These precious crystals were ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh from the famous manufacturers F and C Osler Company, Birmingham, England around 1877 A.D. These treasured crystals are kept in the charismatic City Palace Complex.

Afternoon proceed for a walking tour of the old town where you can walk around and see the artists painting the famous miniatures depicting the glory of the Mughals.

Later in the evening you enjoy boat ride on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you can see the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. During the boat ride you also visit Jag Mandir Palace. An unforgettable sight on Lake Pichola is the island of Jag Mandir. Maharana Karan Singhji built the palace in 1622 A.D, as a pleasure palace for royal parties and functions. This magnificent monument with its domes, marble pillars and fountains has a special approach of a row of marble elephants that seem to be guarding the island. . Post the ride return to the hotel.

Day 10 Udaipur

This morning we drive 30 mins to visit Sadhana. The three hour tour includes the Delwara Heritage and Community Walk and a visit to the Sadhna facility for a guided stitching and block printing workshop.

Sadhna was established in 1988 to provide alternative incomes for women in Udaipur’s rural, tribal and urban slum belts. As these communities were not dependent on agriculture, handicraft was chosen to be introduced to them. Sadhna taught Patchwork, Appliqué and Tanka embroidery skills to the women for them to earn a secure living. Today, Sadhna provides continuous training to women artisans to improve their skills, a support network to them in their villages and a respectable position in their family and society. Drive back, rest of the evening at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 11 Udaipur / Delhi

This morning it’s time for some fun in the old town with a short tuk tuk ride. Later you will be transferred to the airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met upon and transferred the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 12 Depart Delhi

It’s time to say goodbye to India. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.