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(Follows Bhutan Tours Spring & Fall)
Day 1
Day 2 This morning we will be arranging the Tibet permits.
Morning tour of Patan. Originally known as Lalitpur, Patan is situated on the southern bank of the Bagmati River and is 5 Km southeast of Kathmandu. ItsÕ Durbar Square is an enchanting melange of palace buildings, artistic courtyards and graceful pagoda temples. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the former royal palace complex is the center of Patan's religious and social life, and houses a museum containing an array of bronze statues and religious objects. One remarkable monument here is a 17th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, built entirely of stone instead of the usual brick and wood used for temples in Nepal. WeÕll also visit the Golden Temple, the Mahabouddha Temple (also known as the temple of the thousand Buddhas due to the carving of Buddha on each brick), Uku and Kwa Bahal.
Afternoon walking tour of Kathmandu CityÕs Durbar Square with itÕs array of temples centralized around the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, the ancient seat of royalty. Visit the Jagannath Temple with itÕs erotic carvings, the Kal and Seto Bhairav temples, the Temple of the Living Goddess, the big bell and the Kasthamandap Pavilion, said to have been built out of timber of a single celestial tree and from which the city of Kathmandu derives itÕs name.
Culminate with a visit to Swayambunath, one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambhunath, the oldest Buddhist stupa, said to be 2000 years old. The stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four sided base of the spire are the all seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. This hill is a mosaic of small chaityas and pagoda temples.
Day 3 Fly to Lhasa. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to hotel, about 100km,1hour 40minutes drive. Independent time to rest and aclimatize to the altitude. Hotel in Old City, Keichu hotel or Dhood Gu hotel.
Lhasa- means holy land in Tibetan. Located on the northern bank of Lhasa River, a tributary of Yarlungtsanpo River, it is 3,650 meters above sea level. It is the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region and is a political, economic and cultural center of the region. It boasts many historical sites and scenic spots both in its urban areas and outskirts.
Afternoon: Tour of Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Jokhang Temple is in the heart of old Lhasa, most sacred temples in Tibet established in 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, the King who brought Buddhism to Tibet. Barkhor Temple and Barkhor Bazaar is the market place where everything is available, also good for people watching. Tibetans spin prayer wheels and shop as they circumambulate. Good for shopping everything from trinkets to tantaric ritual objects.
Day 4 Tour of Potala Palace, Kangyur Stupa & Norbulingka.
Potala Palace is the cardinal landmark and a structure of massive proportion. This symbol of Tibet, an architectural gem built in the colossal monastic style of Central Tibet by Gyelwa Ngapa, the fifth Dalai Lama, in the 17th century, stands 300m above the valley atop the hill called Marpo Ri. The thousand rooms in Potala date from 1645 when the fifth Dalai Lama began erecting a palace that would serve as a sacred and administrative center. It served many succeeding Dalai Lamas and as one of Tibetās most impressive and enduring monuments, the Chinese Army of Red Guards protected it during the Cultural Revolution. As a result many of its chapels and treasures are intact, virtually unchanged since the 17th century Norbulingka Palace.
Kangyur Stupa: This unique site is a favorite pilgrimage site for Tibetans today. The entire Kangyur (Translated Buddhist Cannon) is carved onto slate rocks, and the slates then used to build the stupa.
Norbulingka is the summer palace of His Holiness Dalai Lama. The 8th Dalai Lama designated it as a summer retreat but the majority of the buildings were not erected until the reigns of 13th and 14th Dalai Lamas. Every year as the chill air warmed, the Dalai Lama would leave Potala in a grand procession for six months residence in the Norbulingkha. It is worth a visit and the park is a great place to be at festival times and public Holidays.
Day 5 Tour of Drepung & Sera Monastery.
About 8km to the west of central Lhasa, Drepung, one of the world's largest monastery was built in 1416 by Jamyang Choje a pupil of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa Sect. Drepung literally means ŅRice Mountain,Ó after the famous and very large Danayakataka Stupa in South India where Buddha originally taught the Kalachakra Tantra. Prior to 1959 Drepung ranked as Tibet's largest monastery, sometimes with a population exceeding 10,000 monks. It also served as the residence of the early Dalai Lamas, until the Potala Palace was constructed in 1645. The second and third and the fourth Dalai Lama lived and were entombed here. Suffering only minor damage during the Cultural Revolution Drepung has plenty of historical relics, Buddhist scriptures and arts. We will walk down to Nechung Monastery and drive to Lhasa for lunch.
In the afternoon, drive to Sera monastery, the 15th century sprawl of golden roofs and whitewashed walls is situated on a mountain slope, few miles north of Lhasa city. This monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect and is one of the three great monasteries of Tibet, the other two being Drepung & Ganden. Sera was hard hit during the cultural revolution owing to its resident's active participation in the 1959 uprising. The highlight of the visit to Sera would be to witness the monks debating out in the courtyard.
Day 6 Lhasa/Samye/Tsetang
After breakfast, depart for Yarlung river and board the ferry for an hour across the river followed by a 20 minutes drive in a bus or truck to Samye monastery. Built in the mid-8th century; Samye is first formal Buddhist Monastery for the monks in Tibet. The magnificent and unique Central Hall is three-stories high. The first floor is of the Tibetan architectural style, the second the Han style and the third the Indian style. The halls in the monastery house many statues and murals. The monastery has bronze bells, carved marble lions and tablets marking the development of Buddhism. All these are valuable cultural relics. As described in historical books, this monastery is considered "an unimaginable construction and incomparable monastery." Return the same route and drive to Tsetang ( 200 kms. 5 hours drive & 2 hours on ferry).
Tsetang has had many "firsts", for instance, the first king Nyatri Tsenpo, the first palace Yumbu Lhakang, the first temple Tradruk, the first cropland Syarisotang, the first Tibetan Opera Pakhapu and the first Buddhist scripture Pangkong Chagya are all credited to Shannan. Here is also the place where King Songtsan Gampo united Tibet and once lived with Princess Wencheng. The Tangka made and embroidered by Princess Wencheng herself is still kept in Tradruk Temple, which is a great treasure house of culture and art. Overnight in Yarlung Hotel in Tsetang.
Day 7 Tsetang/Yamdrok Lake (approx 3 hrs); Yamdrok (Kamoa La)/Gyantse (41/2 hr).
Morning drive to Mindroling monastery then climb to Kampa La Pass 4793m to view the Yamdrok Tso (lake).
Yamdrok Tso (lake) also known as Turquoise lake is situated in the Lhoka area, covers 621 square km at elevation of 4441M and is one of the three largest lakes in Tibet. Enjoy the beautiful views of the lake; time for photo opportunity and short walk.
There is a road to Gyantse which go via lake, but now the road is under construction. So we have to take the main highway (friendship highway) which goes near Sgigatse, then take a short cut to Gyantse. It doesn't actually go to main Shigatse town. It gets near Shigatse, then takes short cut. Overnight in Jing Zhang Hotel in Gyantse.
Mindroling Monastery is one of the two major Nyingmapa centers in Central Tibet. The monastery is large and impressive. Most of the vast complex has been destroyed in the 1960s. Despite the damage, its handsome building constructed of beauitfully dressed stones are among the finest in the country. The monastery dates back to the 1othe century. Overnight in Jing Zhang Hotel in Gyantse.
Day 8 Gyantse to Shigatse - Pelkor Choede, Kumbum Stupa & Shalu monastery.
After breakfast visit Pelkor Choede Monastery. Its' remarkable feature accommodates the three sects of Tibetan Buddhism in one monastery coexisting in peace with each other. The three sects are: the Sakya, the Kagyu and the Gelug. The full name of the Palcho Monastery is "The Auspicious Wheel Joy Monastery." According to the historical records, this monastery was built in 14th or 15th century. It consists of the Assembly Hall, the 100000-Buddha pagoda, dratsangs and an enclosure wall as its construction units. Also visit the justifiably famous Kumbum monastery with its extraordinary architecture. The Stupa was designed by Newari architects from Nepal and is one the unique stupas in Tibet.
After lunch, drive 90 kms, 2 hours to Shigatse, an ancient city on the Plateau of which its history can be traced back to more than 500 years. With its altitude of 3800m, Shigatse covers a total area of 182000sq.km in 18 counties and is the second largest city after Lhasa. With population of 635200 under its jurisdiction, Shigatse is historically named 'Nyangme' which means -the lower reaches of the Nyangchu River- in Tibetan.
Before reaching Shigatse we will visit Shalu Monastery which is a detour from the main road. Shalu is the only monastery in Tibet known to possess a significant collection of 14th century Newari style murals, moderated and enhanced by the artistic sensibilities of the Yuan Dynasty of China. Arniko, master painter from Kathmandu valley, pioneered this unique art that later came to full flower in the Chinese capital. The architecture of Shalu is a rare combination of Chinese and traditional Tibetan elements. Overnight in Hotel Shigatse or Manasarovar in Shigatse.
Day 9 Shigatse/Tashilunpo Monastery/Lhasa
After breakfast, visit the great Tashilhunpo Monastery , the seat of the Panchen Lama, second only in importance to the Dalai Lama. Located on the south slope of the Nyimari hill in the west of the city of Xigatse, the Tashilunpo Monastery , known as one of the six major monasteries of Źthe Gelug Sect, was originally built in 1447. It is the largest monastery in the Tsang area of 300000-sq.m. Tsongkhapa's 8th disciple, Gendun Drupa,the 1st Dalai Lama, built it with the financial aid from the Pakdru regime. Its numeroushalls contain a 21.6-meter wooden statue of Maitreya, the future Buddha and elaborate, jewel encrusted reliquary chorten. The monastery was expanded and renovated by the 4th, 5th and 6th Panchens. Thereafter, the Tashilunpo Monastery stands at an impressive scale today and becomes the residence for each successive Panchen Lama. Drive back to Lhasa (4 hours). Enroute, visit carpet weavers.
Tibetan carpets have a history of over 600 years. Situated to the west of Tibet University Lhasa Carpet Factory is one of the remarkable enterprises in Tibet Autonomous Region. Hundreds of experienced weavers use old-styled vertical looms to weave carpets of incredible complexity. Learn about the process of natural dying, preparation of wool, technique of weaving and symbolism in patterns.
Day 10 Early morning flight to Kathmandu. This is one of the most spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan range including Mt. Everest. Remain at airport for flight home.
Price: $1305/Oct 07 & April 08; $1375/Oct 08 per person based on min 4 people plus airfare KTM-LXA-KTM $ 647 (airfare subject to change)
Includes: LXA-KTM airport tax, fuel and insurance surcharge.
If joining after Bhutan tour: $215 incl hotel in Calcutta, airport transfer; flight Guwhati - Calcutta approx $95.Ź
Includes: Meet and assistance at the airport by our representative, all airport transfers, daily breakfasts,
2 nights accommodation at The Summit Hotel/garden Wing rooms (room upgrade possible based on availability)
7 nights-8 days in Tibet using the following hotels.
* 04 nights accommodation at Dhood Gu or similar hotel
* 01 night accommodation at Yarlung hotel - Tsedang
* 01 night accommodation at Jian Zhang hotel - Gyantse
* 01 night accommodation at Mansarovar hotel - Shigatse
* All transfers and sightseeing tours will be provided as per the program with English speaking guide.
Does not include: Nepal visa ($30 on arrival), Chinese visa ($65 for US citizens, pay directly to Kathamndu agent), airfare, airport tax, photography fees, refreshments, bottled drinks, tips, porters, cost arising out of land slides/road blockade/cancellation of flight, any kind of insurance, expenses of personal nature, any sightseeing tours in Kathmandu and any other items not mentioned in the above cost.
The Summit is a very special Nepali style hotel with western comfort. It is located equidistant between the great Durbar Squares of Kathmandu and LalitpurTerraces set in spacious flower gardens give views north across the Kathmandu Valley to the Shivapuri ridgeline and the snow clad Himalayan range beyond. Open balconies with local hand made tile floors and carved wooden pillars connect to the rooms. With Kathmandu now being a crowded city, the old city of Patan (Lalitpur) has not changed much over the centuries and can easily be explored on foot. www.summit-nepal.com
The Patan Museum is located in a most beautiful renovated Malla Palace Garden and a visit there, and a stop off at the Museum Restaurant is a must. The Summit Hotel operates the restaurant in the Patan Museum. It is open from 10am - 5 pm and offers an excellent variety of Nepalese, and continental snacks and meals with organic vegetables and salads grown in the Museum gardens. The Patan Museum itself displays the traditional sacred art of Nepal in an outstanding architectural setting. Its home is an old residential court of Patan Durbar, one of the royal palaces of the former Malla kings of the Kathmandu Valley. Its gilded door and windows face one of the most beautiful squares in the world. The museum's exhibits cover a long span of Nepal's cultural history and some rare objects are among its treasures. Their meaning and context within the living traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism are all clearly explained. Most of the objects are cast bronzes and gilt copper repoussˇ work, traditional crafts for which Patan is famous.
Also located near the Summit are some of the best woodwork and handicraft shops in the valley. The Tibetan Refugee Camp has a wide selection of hand woven natural and vegetable dye carpets.
For those who have not previously been to Nepal, extra optional extension upon return from Tibet:
Oct 11 Full day excursion to Changu Narayan Temple, the medieval village Bhaktapur, Sankhu: and Panauti villages and culminating with arrival in the mountain village Dhulikkel. Overnight Mirabel Resort.
The temple of Changu Narayan, located 14km/9miles from Kathmandu, is the oldest in the valley and represents Lord Vishnu. Located on a hillock which at one time doubled as a small fort, is considered to be one of the greatest artistic legacies of the Lichhavian era. The courtyard of the temple is a virtual museum of ancient stone carvings.
Bhaktapur: the third city of the valley Bhaktapur is a store house of medieval architecture. Completely renovated by the Germans a few years back, the city reflects the medieval look. It was founded in the 9th century and shaped like a conch shell. Located 4,600 above sea level, the city boasts an array of temples overlooked by the Palace with its 55 windows built by King Bhupatindra Malla. Here you will visit the Golden Gate at the Palace of 55 windows, the Pashupatinath temple famous for itÕs erotic carvings, the Nyatapole temple-- the tallest in the country Š best example of the Pagoda style, the Dattatreya temple and Pujari Math with itÕs uniquely carved wooden windows.
Sankhu: is a small village 20km/12miles North East of Kathmandu. This village was the last stop for the traders going to Lhasa from 7th till 19th century AD. The village is a legend in itself. The town is famous for itsÕ small shrines and the Vajrayogini Temple, a Buddhist goddess of power, located on a hillock and reached by a flight of stairs taking about 30 minutes.
Panauti : An ancient village, 32 Km/20 miles south east of Kathmandu, is situated on the banks of Punyamati River. A leisurely walk through this tiny village will reveal itÕs antiquity to the visitors, a must in Panauti is a visit to the 14th century AD Hindu temple of Shiva locally known as Indreshwor Mahadev. The wooden struts supporting the temple are splendid example of wood carving of that era, which till date remain unchallenged in the entire Kingdom.
Oct 12 Relaxed morning in Dhulikhel. You can take an easy hike if you wish. Afternoon return to Patan enroute visit the small isolated Nala village (27km/17 miles east of Kathmandu). Nala is situated on the southern slope of a mountain overlooking the beautiful green valley. The whole village has a mystical atmosphere due to itsÕ location and a temple of Bhagawati, a classic example of pagoda architecture.
Oct 13 Excursion to Dakshinkali. The drive is about 13 kms (approx 2 hrs). En-route we visit Kirtipur, one of the typical Newar villages.
Dakshinkali:Located in a small gorge on the bank of a stream, Dakshinkali is dedicated to Goddess Kali, a Hindu goddess of power. A chief center of tantric worship, animal sacrifices (hens, goats and buffaloes) are held every Tuesdays and Saturdays. The temple itself is located in a forested canyon and lies 19km/12miles from Kathmandu City. We proceed to Kirtipur via Shesh Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu Trinity. The temple is accessible by climbing a short flight of stairs and overlooks fish ponds.
Kirtipur, 6 km southwest of Kathmandu and said to be situated on a single rock, was the only town that resisted the Gorkha Invasion for 17 times in the late 18th century. The ancient township of 35,000 people, is a natural fortress thus having proud and courageous history. Built on a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, Kirtipur was once an independent kingdom. Perhaps as a result of Kirtipur's legendary stubbornness, the town has been unaffected by the development of Kathmandu and Patan. Here you will visit Uma Maheswore Temple and the Bagh Bhairav Temple as well as small lesser known shrines, The tour of Kirtipur town is to be conducted on foot. The people are known for their skill in building and weaving.
Oct 14 Depart Kathmandu.
Price: Request
includes: 1 night Mirabel Resort (Dhulikhel), 2 nights accommodation at The Summit Hotel/garden Wing rooms (room upgrade possible based on availability)
Group Tour: Saga Dawa Pilgrimage
Pilgrimage to holy Mt Kailash to join in the sacred celebration of the birth of Buddha. Annual in June.
Guaranteed Departures & Private Tours
The following itineraries require a minimum of 4 travelers in order to obtain the necessary permit. If you are not a group of four,
you can join our Lhasa and Tibet Overland which are guaranteed departures every Tuesday & Saturday during the season. You will be joining a
small group of travelers who come from all over the world. For Everest Base camp & MT Kailash, if you are less than 4 people, you can enter
Tibet from Chengdu (as opposed to Kathmandu) and we can obtain the necessary permit for you there.
Best seasons are: April/May/June and Sept/Oct/Nov.
Lhasa - Click here for Detailed Itinerary
5 days/4 nights
Tibet Overland - Click here for Detailed Itinerary
8 days/7 nights
Tibet Everest Base Camp - Click here for Detailed Itinerary
10 days/9 nights
Everest Base camp-Guarnateed Group Departures
Holy Mount Kailash - Click here for Detailed Itinerary
18 days/17 nights
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all text & photos © 1997-07, Barbara Sansone