South Asia tour package Sri Lanka, India, Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal

Upon your arrival at the airport terminal, please make your way towards the arrival section, and once you have completed the immigration and customs process, please keep an eye out for your tour guide, who will be waiting for you with a signboard displaying your name.
Your tour guide will be easily recognizable and will be more than happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. They will also provide you with all the necessary information you need to get started on your journey in Negombo.
Next, your tour guide will accompany you to your transportation, which will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Negombo. As you make your way to your hotel, your guide will share some insights about the local culture and traditions of Sri Lanka, giving you a glimpse of what to expect during your stay in Negombo.
Overnight stay in Negombo

After breakfast, head to Anuradhapura, the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th Century B.C., famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It was the most stable and durable center of political power and urban life in South Asia during its period. Sri Maha Bodhi, a 2,200-year-old sacred Bo-Tree, is the oldest documented tree in the world, and it was brought as a sapling of the tree under which Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment. You'll also see the famous 'Samadhi' Buddha statue, dating back to the 4th century AD, which depicts the Buddha in deep meditation.
Later, visit Mihintale, a mountain peak revered as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Stay overnight in Anuradhapura.
Stay overnight in Anuradhpaura

After breakfast, climb the Sigiriya "Fortress in the Sky," a 5th-century wonder built by King Kashyapa. Visit Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka, to see ruins of the Royal Palace and splendid Buddha statues. Highlights include Lankatilake, Thivanka, and Thuparama shrines, Gal Vihare rock shrine, and Vata-da-ge.
Stay overnight in Habarana

In the morning, you will visit a local village to explore typical village houses and take a short walk to the lake to enjoy a catamaran ride and breathtaking views. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a local lunch with villagers and visit a farm with a farmer's treehouse. Don't miss the chance to taste a freshly cut coconut from his trees.

After lunch, visit the Dambulla cave temples, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, which dates back to the third and second centuries BC (1st century BC to 993 AD). The temple is famous for the five cave temples on a rock that was donated by King Walagambahu in the 1st century BC to Buddhist monks. The first three caves are older, better, and larger than the other two. All the walls and ceilings of the five caves are covered with Buddhist murals, and you can find more than 130 Buddha statues, as well as statues of gods and kings.
Stay overnight in Habarana

Visit a spice garden in Matale en route to Kandy where you can see and purchase various spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper. You can also have a Sri Lankan style homemade lunch if interested. Afterward, proceed to Kandy and take a tour of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.

In Kandy, you can drive around the lake built by the last Sinhala king in 1798 and visit the bazaar, arts and crafts center, gem museum, and lapidary. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional dances of Sri Lanka.
Stay overnight in Kandy

After breakfast, you will transfer from your hotel to Peradeniya rail station for a scenic train ride from Peradeniya to Ella. Upon arrival at Ella railway station, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Ella. The train journey is renowned for its stunning views of rolling hills, tea plantations, waterfalls, and lush green landscapes. It is a popular and unique way to experience the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. Ella is a charming hill country town with beautiful vistas, hiking trails, and cascading waterfalls.
Stay overnight in Ella

After breakfast, explore the beautiful town of Ella with its stunning scenery, including the famous Nine Arches Bridge, a popular spot for photographers and train enthusiasts. Enjoy the views of Ella Gap, a natural rock formation that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills.

Don't miss the opportunity to hike Little Adam's Peak, a relatively easy climb with stunning views from the summit. Take in the beautiful tea plantations and rolling hills, and be sure to have your camera ready.
Stay overnight in Ella

Upon your arrive in Delhi, our representative will greet you and transport you to your hotel. After you've settled in, take a fascinating tour of Old Delhi, where you'll learn about the city's rich historical and cultural legacy. Visit the Red Fort, Jama Masjid (India's largest mosque), and Chandni Chowk, a lively bazaar that offers a sensory feast. In the evening, dine at a neighborhood restaurant before retiring to your Delhi hotel for the night.

Begin your day by seeing New Delhi, the capital's modern counterpart. Explore the broad boulevards, huge government buildings, and architectural wonders like India Gate and the President's House. Explore the tranquil beauty of Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Qutub Minar, India's highest minaret. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a neighborhood restaurant, experiencing the different tastes of Delhi's food. Experience the colorful environment of Connaught Place, Delhi's bustling business center, in the evening. Return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep in Delhi.

Travel from Delhi to Agra, the city of everlasting love and home to the majestic Taj Mahal. Witness the ethereal grandeur of the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, as the rising sun drapes golden hues across the marble mausoleum. Explore the splendor of Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the Mughal Empire's seat. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing the tastes of Mughlai cuisine. Return to your Agra hotel for a restful night's sleep.

Depart from Agra and go to Jaipur, often known as the Pink City. Visit the magnificent Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you may mount the fort on an elephant or a vehicle and enjoy its breathtaking architecture and panoramic vistas. Explore the City Palace, a stunning combination of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, as well as the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory. Explore the brilliant colors and craftsmanship of Jaipur's bustling bazaars. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal before retiring to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast, depart Jaipur and return to Delhi. On the route, stop by the tranquil and spiritual Akshardham Temple, a contemporary architectural and cultural heritage masterpiece. Enjoy a goodbye meal at a neighborhood restaurant, delighting in the final flavors of Indian food.

After breakfast, drive to Airport and fly to Paro. Arrive at Paro via Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, the national airlines that provide spectacular views of mountains and landscapes during the journey. After completing visa requirements, you will be met at the airport by our representative. We will next travel to Thimphu, Bhutan's picturesque capital city, which is only one hour away. Visit the 14th-century Tachog Lhakhang temple on the way, which is famed for its distinctive sculptures and the ability to walk on iron chains spanning the Paro chu (River). We will arrive at Thimphu valley by driving down the Wangchu (Thimphu river). After checking into your accommodation, go to Kuenselphodrang to see the 169-foot-tall Buddha Dordema monument that overlooks the city. Explore the Traditional Handmade Paper Factory, where you can witness the old process of manufacturing handmade paper and even try your hand at it. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a magnificent Buddhist temple devoted to the Third King and World Peace. Visit the majestic Thimphu Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortification on the banks of the Wang Chu River, to round up the day. Spend overnight in Thimphu.

Set off on a picturesque trip from Thimphu to Punakha, covering 130 kilometers in about 3 12 hours. Travel through the Dochu-La pass (3,150m) for panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks that border northern Bhutan. En way, stop at the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang, a one-of-a-kind monastery established in honor of Bhutan's fourth King. Descending down the mountain, you will see a shift in flora from sub-alpine to sub-tropical, with banana trees, cactus, and Punakha's terraced rice fields evident. Before going on to the gorgeous Phobjikha Valley, stop for lunch at Metsina village.

Visit Gangtey Gompa, Bhutan's largest Nyingmapa monastery, which is nestled on a tiny hill. Explore the enthralling Phobjikha Valley, which is recognized as the winter home of black-necked cranes who migrate to this warmer environment. Discover the Black Neck Crane Information Centre, which allows visitors to watch these magnificent birds via high-powered telescopes. The center also gives information on the area's natural and cultural heritage, and you may help the local community by purchasing handicrafts from the gift shop. Enjoy an overnight stay in the Phobjikha Valley at an elevation of 2,900 meters.

After a delicious breakfast, travel 75 kilometers back to Punakha, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Visit Chhimi Lhakhang, also known as the Divine Madman's Monastery, on the route, which is famed for its fertility shrine and unique blessings. Lunch at a small restaurant in Punakha Valley.

In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong, a majestic castle situated between two rivers. It played an important part in Bhutanese history and functioned as the central monastic body's winter home. Punakha, Bhutan's former capital, is noted for its cultural significance and magnificent natural beauty. The dzong is a historical and cultural emblem of Bhutan. Spend the night at a hotel in Punakha, which is 1,300 meters above sea level.

After breakfast, take a picturesque journey from Punakha to Paro, traveling 140 kilometers in about 3 hours. Stop on way to Dochula Pass (3,150m) for tea or coffee while admiring the panoramic views. Continue your journey to Paro and stop for lunch at a restaurant.

In the afternoon, make a visit to the fascinating Rinpung Dzong, often known as the "fortress of the heap of jewels." This beautiful dzong, erected in 1645, serves as the Paro district seat. Explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most holy monasteries going back to the seventh century.

In the evening, visit a typical farm house and experience the flavors of the local food with a local family. You may also enjoy a therapeutic hot stone bath, which is famed for its medicinal characteristics. Enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel in Paro at an elevation of 2,219 meters.

Immerse yourself in the sacred and mythological atmosphere of Paro, well known for its renowned Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. This monastery, perched on a granite cliff about 800 meters above the valley, is very important in Bhutanese culture. Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated here after flying to Paro on a tigress. The monastery has been designated a national treasure.

Hike to Tiger's Nest, which takes around two and a half hours. The path leads to a café with a stunning view of the monastery. A 45-minute uphill trek will get you closer to the monastery before returning to the restaurant for lunch. The return journey to the roadhead takes around an hour and a half. Enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel in Paro at an elevation of 2,219m.

Your Nepal tour begins upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Your guide will meet you, assist you, and transfer you to Bhaktapur for sightseeing. Bhaktapur is a medieval town and a living museum of medieval art and architecture. It is famously known as the "city of devotees" due to its significant influence on religion, culture, and tantrism. This unique old town is a collection of pagoda and shikhara-style temples surrounding a fifty-five window palace made of brick and wood. The durbar square in Bhaktapur is a charming architectural showpiece and one of the most captivating attractions in the area.

Pottery: Enjoy a leisurely guided walk at the Pottery Square, where handicrafts are still made in a traditional way. Clay pots are spun and fired using ancient techniques, preserving Bhaktapur's thriving craft industry. You can even try your hand at fashioning a clay pot and learn about this fascinating process. After finishing the sightseeing, you will drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you can enjoy welcome drinks and receive a briefing about the Nepal Family Vacation program. The rest of the day will be free for you to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

Your family vacation in Nepal start today. After Breakfast start sightseeing at UESCO Heritage Sites. Sightseeing at Patan Durbar Square- a distinct place for arts and architecture that is reflected on each temple, monument and palace building that were mostly built during the Malla period between the 16th, 17th and 18th century.
We will explore its unique Durbar Squares. In every corner & alley of Patan, you can see Thangka painters, filling color to ancient Gods and Goddess on canvases, fine metal shops that offer Buddha's exotic, handmade brass sculpture at very reasonable prices. You can taste local cuisine as well in Patan's alleys.

From there, the tour is directed towards Swayambhunath, a dome-shaped Buddhist shrine which has stood as a hallmark of faith and harmony for both the Buddhists and the Hindus from all over the world. Also known as the "Monkey Temple," this is a 2500 years old stupa believed to be self-evolved out of a lotus flower that bloomed in the middle of a lake that once spread across the Kathmandu Valley once was. The stupa is situated on a hillock about 77 m above the ground level and overlooking Katmandu valley.

Later we head to Pashupatinath Temple, a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Pashupatinath is located on the banks of the Bagmati River. This "extensive Hindu temple precinct" is a "sprawling collection of temples, ashrams, images and inscriptions raised over the centuries.

Today we drive (for around 5-6 hours ) to a Newar Cultural Village called Bandipur. Bandipur offers a heavy mix of history, architecture, unbelievable views, splendid caves and pristine landscapes. You can view the beautiful chain of mountains Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Langtang, Manaslu and Ganesh Himal from Tundikhel (if weather permits). In the evening take a walk and admire the beautiful vistas, chat with the friendly local people, and witness their simple local way of life.

In the morning we will take a short exploration of Bandipur then we will drive to Pokhara. Located 210 km west of Kathmandu, this beautiful lakeside city is a prime tourism destination in Nepal offering with spellbinding and hypnotic natural beauty, stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The drive on the way itself is going to be amazingly unique experience as you travel besides the mighty river with some strong current almost throughout your journey with scenic greenery on both sides of the road along with human settlements thick and thin at different places. After reaching Pokhara you check in to your hotel, get yourself refreshed and have some rest.

We then head out for some sightseeing to Bindhyabasini temple, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. Rituals and pujas are performed on different occasions to please goddess Bhagwati. We then head to Devi's Fall, a waterfall that flows directly into a narrow and deep canal which has no end. It is known as Patale Chango, which means underworld waterfall. Gupteshwor cave is recognized as one of the longest caves in Nepal with a length that exceeds 2000 meters and the cave interior consists of deposition of calcium carbonate and surrounding limestone

Boating at Barahi Temple - Today try out some boating at Phewa Lake for about an hour, visit Tal Barahi temple while boating. Tal Barahi Temple, situated in the middle of the lake on an island on the south east section, also known as Lake Temple, is a two-story pagoda temple located in the Kaski District of the Gandaki Zone in western Nepal. It is a Hindu temple of the Goddess Durga.

Today we will drive to World Peace Pagoda which takes 25 minutes. Enjoy beautiful views of Pokhara city, Sarangkot hills and the Himalayas from Stupa. Shanti Stupa, as it is also known, was built as a symbol of peace. It is the first World Peace Pagoda in Nepal. The pagoda is 115 feet tall and 344 feet in diameter. The white pagoda has two tiers for tourists and religious visitors to circumambulate.

After a short excursion at Peace Pagoda, we start hiking to Kalabang. The quaint location offers an alternative to the crowded viewpoint at Sarangkot, with spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna Range. Phewa Taal's waters stretch out disappearing into the surrounding hills. On certain seasons the horizon is blurred between the sky and the lake.

Here we will have lunch hosted by a local family and later, escorted by a local, we will visit Pumdi village. Drive to lakeside. Rest of the day free on your own.

On this day, right after breakfast we drive back to Kathmandu the same way we travelled through initially, which may take us around 6 to7 hours depending on traffic. On reaching the capital city, you may check into the hotel, get yourself refreshed and take a rest for a while after a long day's drive.

After breakfast, you will take a beautiful journey to Kathmandu airport for your 3-hour flight to Chengdu. When you arrive at Chengdu airport, our friendly guide will meet you and assist you with your seamless transfer to your Chengdu hotel. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and unwinding in the easygoing ambiance of this intriguing city.

Spend the night in Chengdu, immersing yourself in its beauty and energetic ambience.

In the morning, embark on a delightful half-hour drive to the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center, a sanctuary for giant pandas. Witness the pandas during their feeding time, when they are most active. This 230-hectare park, located just 10 km (6 miles) north of Chengdu, not only offers captivating panda encounters but also houses a comprehensive panda museum, providing a wealth of information about these beloved creatures. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this park as you spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring its wonders.

Following your panda adventure, the entire afternoon is yours to freely explore and discover Chengdu at your own pace. Take this opportunity to delve into the city's captivating sights, indulge in local cuisine, or immerse yourself in its cultural offerings.

As the evening sets in, you will be transferred to Chengdu Train Station to embark on an unforgettable overnight train journey to Lhasa. The train departs from Chengdu North Railway Station, and it is advised to arrive at least an hour or half an hour before departure, as the train can accommodate approximately 1000 passengers. Please ensure that you have your Tibet Permit handy, as it will be checked during the check-in process. Train Z322, destined for Lhasa, departs at 21:37, marking the beginning of your mesmerizing journey into the heart of Tibet.

Stay overnight on the train, cherishing the anticipation of the remarkable experiences that await you in Lhasa.

Embark on an unforgettable train journey from Chengdu to Lhasa, spanning 43 hours and 7 minutes. As you traverse the scenic landscapes, you'll pass through Lanzhou and Xining, important cities in northwest China. Marvel at the picturesque countryside and vibrant cityscapes along the way. Arriving in Xining, the gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, you'll reflect on the incredible experiences of the day. Stay overnight on the train, eagerly anticipating the enchanting adventures that await you in Lhasa and the mesmerizing beauty of Tibet.

Embark on a captivating journey along the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway, immersing yourself in a visual feast of breathtaking landscapes. Traverse snow-covered lands, expansive deserts, sprawling grasslands, majestic ice-capped mountains, and serene lakes that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. As you arrive in Lhasa around 16:00, be greeted by your knowledgeable tour guide, who will eagerly welcome you at the train station exit and accompany you to your carefully selected hotel in Lhasa. Prepare for an enchanting stay in this remarkable city, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Stay overnight in Lhasa, embracing the anticipation of the extraordinary experiences that await you in the heart of Tibet.

After breakfast you will be briefed about the day's program. Then your guide will take you on a tour to Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery and Barkhor Market respectively.

Jokhang Temple: Situated in the heart of Lhasa Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet. Nepalese princess, later Queen Bhrikuti who married King Songtsen Gampo. The king founded the temple in recognition of her with its main gate facing Nepal. Surrounding Jokhang Temple are the many impressive structure chapels.

Sera Monastery: an approximately five hour drive from Lhasa lies Sera Monastery founded in 1419. Sitting on the base of Mount Purbuchok in a peaceful and charming location. An important center for learning where once about 5000 to 6000 monks lived. The main structures inside the monastery are the Coqen Hall, (the main assembly hall), three Zhacangs (Buddhist colleges) and twenty-nine Khangtsens (monk dormitories). An intriguing feature is the nine-meter image of Maitraya. Here you can witness monk's practice debating, pitching their knowledge against each other.

Barkhor Market (Bazar): A very popular bustling market since the times of the Silk Road where one can purchase traditional Tibetan handicraft goods such as Buddhist articles, carpets, paintings etc. It is filled with religious atmosphere and exotic articles for sale since the Jokhang temple was built people flock to the area and hence this thriving market came into existence. It is suggested to walk in a clockwise direction along the Barkhor Street.

Stay overnight in Lhasa

After breakfast you will be briefed about the day's program. Then your guide will take you on a tour to majestic Potala palace & Drepung Monastery respectively.

Potala Palace: This thirteen storey fortress palace houses 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines, over 200,000 images rises to a height of above 117 meters. Its ancient chambers are filled to the brim with exquisite Tibetan art, vast arrays of beautiful statues and murals. Located inside are the tomb of eight Dalai Lamas. You will also get a chance to wander through the private apartments of the 13th and 14th Dalai Lamas, a glimpse into the past lives of its important residents

Drepung Monastery: It is one of the three great Gelukpa Monasteries, the other two are Sera and Ganden Monasteries. It served as a centre for learning and monastic training for monks from all over Tibet. For centuries it was a small monastic township situated 8 kilometres outside Lhasa where thousands of ordained monks resided debating and reading scriptures. Jam yang Chje Tahsi Palden, a disciple of Tsong Khapa founded the monastery in 1416.

Note: Since only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside the Potala palace every day, the order of sightseeing places will be decided upon by your guide.

Stay overnight in Lhasa

In the morning, drive from Lhasa to Shigatse .On the way, drive over the Gampala pass (4790 m), and you will have a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m) .The Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar, (7191m) the highest mountain near Lhasa .

Later, we will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside; At Manak Dam Lake, you can hang pray flag at Simila Mountain Pass; Then, we will arrive in Gyantse, historically Tibet's third largest city (after Lhasa and Shigatse).In Gyantse, we will visit the famous Pelkor Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum and enjoy the Far view of Gyangtse Fortress.

After one and a half hours of driving, we arrive in Shigatse, which is the second largest city in Tibet. In Shigatse, we may visit traditional Barley Mill and view the landscape of Barley Field (in summer).

Stay overnight in Shigatse

In the morning, we will embark on a visit to the revered Tashilunpo Monastery, the esteemed abode of the Panchan Lama. Afterward, we will depart from Shigatse, ensuring that we have obtained your Alien's Travel Permit, and proceed towards the picturesque town of Lhatse, where a delightful lunch awaits.

Continuing our journey, we will traverse the majestic Tsola Pass (4600m) and the awe-inspiring Gyatsola Pass (5248m). As we enter the Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve, a breathtaking spectacle awaits at Gawula Pass (5198m), offering an unforgettable panorama of the majestic Himalayas. Driving along the captivating new zigzag road, we will reach Everest Base Camp (5200m), allowing you to approach and marvel at the resplendent peak of Mount Everest. If weather and time permit, a golden sunset view of Everest will grace the lodging area.

Prepare for an extraordinary overnight stay at the Rongbuk Monastery guest house, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

In the morning, weather permitting, marvel at the sunrise over Mount Everest from your lodging area. Then, visit the unique Rongbuk Monastery, where nuns and monks reside together. Experience the grandeur of Everest Base Camp up close and capture unforgettable photos of the world's highest peak.

Afterward, drive from Everest Base Camp to Kyirong border, relishing breathtaking views of Mount Shishapangma and the stunning Pekutso Lake along the way. Pass through the majestic Ghungtang Lhamo (5236m) and arrive in Kyirong by late afternoon. Enjoy an overnight stay at a guesthouse, embracing the serenity of the surroundings as you prepare for more remarkable adventures.

Stay overnight in the guesthouse in Kyirong

After breakfast, drive 25 km to the border and the immigration point. After Chinese Immigration formalities we cross into Nepal by foot and meet our Nepali representative and vehicle at the Nepal side called Timure, Rasuwa Ghadi. After Nepali immigration formalities we will head towards Nuwakot, halfway between the Tibetan border and Kathmandu which may take us about 5 hours. This medieval village built on top of a hill and with prime historical importance, will give you a real taste of Nepalese rural life. With its spectacular views and its ancient Durbar Square, Nuwakot is one of Nepal's best hidden gems and remains a completely unknown destination for mass tourism to this day.

After breakfast drive back to Kathmandu for around 3-4 hours. Check in at hotel. Rest of the day free on your own. Evening we will go for a Typical Nepali Dinner with a live cultural show by different ethnic groups.

Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Aarya Village Travel will transfer you to the airport for your onward journey.