Buddhist Scholars Holiday

Buddhist Scholars Holiday

Punakha Dzong, Punakha

This 20 days Buddhist Scholars Holiday is basically to experience the footsteps of Lord Buddha therefore the tour starts from Nepal taking us to see many renowned temples including the one in Lumbini before flying to Bodhgaya. After spending good time in Bodhgaya, we will fly to Bagdogra under West Bangle from where you will be driven to Bhutan. If you wish you can spend few days in Darjeeling Sikkim as well, otherwise we will spend more time in the Kingdom of Happiness. Book Buddhist Scholars Holiday with HBT and enjoy your time covering these beautiful three Asian countries. Buddhist Scholars Holiday Across Himalaya.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
On arrival at Kathmandu, you will be received and transferred to the hotel. Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is set in a valley surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. Later if time permits, we will visit. Kathmandu Durbar Square– It is a World Heritage Site. Kathmandu Durbar square, also known as Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, used to be the residence of the Nepali royal family and administrators. This ancient palace lies in the heart of the city. Stroll around Thamel town– It is a haven for tourists visiting the city. It contains numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops that cater specifically to western tourists. Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing
Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city in Nepal, sits at the heart of Kathmandu Valley, listed since 1979 as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Called city of Temples, Kathmandu is a holy land for you to discover the abundant culture and grand natural beauty in Durbar Squares, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple and etc. Pashupathinath Temple– One of the most sacred Hindu temples of Nepal – Pashupatinath Temple is located on both banks of Bagmati River on the eastern outskirts of Kathmandu. The massive Pashupatinath complex is one of the holiest pilgrimage spots in Nepal. Boudhanath Stupa– It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Boudha stupa is semicircle shaped and contains the relics and remaining of Buddha.The giant Boudhanath stupa is a gateway to heaven serving as a horizon between the earth and sky. Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple)- The Swayambhunath Stupa, an icon of Nepal, is an ancient religious structure on a hilltop in the Kathmandu Valley.From the Swayambhunath stupa, you will have an amazing view of Kathmandu and the valley. Bhaktapur Durbar Square– Bhaktapur Durbar Square, renowned for its antique heritages from the 15th century displays the masterwork of metal, wood, and stone arts. It in fact exhibits the vividness of very old era. Overnight in Kathmandu

Day 03: Kathmandu- Lumbini
After breakfast drive to Lumbini. You will drive from Kathmandu to Naubise on the Tribhuvan Highway. From Naubise, we continue drive along Prithvi Highway till Narayanghat and from there we drive through Mahendra Highway until we reach Lumbini. Lumbini is one of the holiest places of one of the world’s great religions, and its remains contain important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Lumbini

Day 04: Lumbini Sightseeing
Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, was born in 623 B.C. in the famous gardens of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Lumbini happens to be one of the famous tourist destinations, a Mecca for the devotees and believers all over the world. Blessed with the various sites, instruments and shrines of various stages of Buddha’s life, Lumbini offers a variety of attractions related to the different occurrences in Buddha’s life. Maya Devi Temple– The most sacred site in the Lumbini Garden where archaeologists have identified the exact spot where Lord Buddha was born. This temple is dedicated to Maya Devi- Lord Buddha’s mother. Ashoka Pillar– Built in the year 259BC, this pillar was built by King Ashok, who was Buddhist. On the surface of the pillar, the wording says that the local king had announced Lumbini to be free of tax as it was the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Myanmar Golden Temple– This temple is built in Myanmar architecture. This is one of the oldest structures of Lumbini. Pushkarni Pond– This is the pond where Mayadevi is said to have had a bath before giving birth to Buddha. Ramagram– It is believed to be the maternal home of Buddha. This is where we can see the biggest stupa, with important relics. It is said that it was built around 600 B.C. World Peace Pagoda– This bright white pagoda is located right outside Lumbini. This structure has a large gold statue of Buddha in his birth position. This pagoda was built in the cost of one million USD. Overnight in Lumbini

Day 05: Lumbini- Kathmandu
Retrace the drive back to Kathmandu via Tribhuvan Highway. Kathmandu is the capital of the kingdom, situated in a valley which is an open air museum of famous sites, ancient temples and shrines & golden pagodas. It is a city of inexhaustible historic artistic and cultural interest. Kumari House– Historical palace of the living goddess Kumari who is worshipped by Hindus & Buddhists. Evening at leirsure or free for shopping. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 06: Kathmandu-  Bodh Gaya
Take the flight to Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is a village in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. Considered one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 07: Bodh Gaya Sightseeing
Bodh Gaya is famous for Mahabodhi Temple, it was here undr the Bodhi tree that Budhha attained enlightenment. It is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mahabodhi Temple– The Mahabodhi temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. It is a Buddhist temple that marks the location where the Lord Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. Bodhi Tree– It marks the spot where the original Bodhi tree once stood, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Pragbodhi– It is believed that Lord Buddha spent seven years living an austere life in a cave in this hill before he attained enlightenment. Great Buddha Statue– The Great Buddha Statue is an awe-inspiring sight, standing at a height of about 25 m. It is believed to be one of the largest statues in India and shows Lord Buddha sitting on a lotus in a meditative pose. It was unveiled and consecrated on November 18, 1989, and the ceremony was attended by the 14th Dalai Lama who blessed the site. Vishnupad Temple– It is another famous piece of architecture in Gaya. The temple is dedicated to Lord Bishnu and marked by his foorprint, which is also known as Dharmasila. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 08: Bodh Gaya Sightseeing
Rajgir is an ancient city in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. Surrounded by hills, it’s known for its holy sites. Nalanda marks the site of the once famous Buddhist university also known as the Nalanda University, which has also been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ragir– The largest city in Majjhimadesa during the Buddha’s time. Tranquil Vulture’s Peak– It is also known as the Holy Eagle Peak. Vulture Peak is considered to be the second “holiest” place of Buddhism, after the Maha Bodhi Temple because this is the place where the Buddha spent so much time on retreat, meditating, and teaching so many discourses. This is also a perfect place for meditation. The Ruins of Nalanda University– It is spread over 14 hectares of land. One can see many Buddhist structures including stupas, chaityas, temples and monasteries. Stupa of Sariputta– It was a place where Lord Buddha believed to have attained salvation. Evening retrace the drive back to Bodh Gaya. Overnight in Bodh Gaya.

Day 09: Bodh Gaya Sightseeing
The life of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, is associated with the small town of Bodhgaya. It is one of the four holiest cities of Buddhist faith. Bodhgaya is not only an important Buddhist pilgrim center, but it is also an important center for the study of Buddhism. Muchalinda Sarovar- This is a holy pond in Bodh Gaya town, it’s name is derived from the snake king of the pond. Buddha spent sixth week meditating at this place after attaining awakening. Chinese Temple– The temple houses three golden statues of Lord Buddha and many inscriptions on the wall are engraved in Chinese. It was built by Buddhist monks with assistance from Chinese Government. Thai Monastery– It was built in the year 1956 by the then Thailand Monarch. The monastery reflects an exceptional blend of Thai Buddhist architecture with sloping roof curved at the corners and adorned with golden tiles. As you enter inside, a 25-meter high bronze statue of Lord Budhha catches attention. Royal Bhutan Monastery– Built at the command of King of Bhutan as a tribute to Lord Buddha.  The monastery has a beautiful Buddha temple housing a magnificent statue of Lord Buddha. Overnight in Bodh Gaya

Day 10: Arrival in IXB/NJP to Phuentsholing (4 hrs drive)
Depending on your flight/train arrival time, it will take about 4 hours to reach Phuentsholing. The drive will pass through crowded Siliguri town over Tista river into various tea gardens finally emerging into foothills of Bhutan. The journey will be hectic and long, recommended to book the flight arriving before 3pm at Bagdogra if possible. After arriving in Phuentsholing, check into the hotel and relax. Phuentsholing- Phuentsholing is the border point for any goods and services entry/exit into Bhutan. Phuentsholing lies opposite the Indian town of Jaigon and cross-border trade has resulted in a thriving local economy. Zangto Pelri Lhakhang: It is a small temple located in the heart of the Phuntsholing town. The temple’s soothing premises also serve as park, a good place to relax for both local and tourist. Elderly citizens come to circumambulate around the temple. Overnight in Phuentsholing, altitude 300m

Day 11: Phuentsholing to Thimphu (5 hrs drive)
Complete the immigration formalities before starting the journey to Thimphu, the immigration office gets open at 9AM. The feeling of exhausted and crowded in Phuentsholing comes to the end after half an hour drive uphill, you will start feeling fresh and enjoy the scenic beauty of the nature. The journey will pass through some of the most beautiful broad leaves forest to temperate alpine zone, villages, towns, water fall, hills and mountains until we reach Thimphu, creating the history for you. Roadside Stops: Leg stretch break for having tea/coffee, using restroom and taking photographs at scenic places like waterfalls, landscapes, and villages. Chuzom- Meeting point of two rivers (Thimphu & Paro) this is tri junction of highway leading to Thimphu, Paro and Phuentsholing into three directions. Enjoy the lovely picture of beautiful portrait of our King and Queen placed at chuzom which is so welcoming to all who visits Bhutan. Explore Thimphu City- If time permits, walking through the city gives you immense joys and understanding of modern city. Good option for imported garments and local souvenir, beside unique local handicrafts. Thimphu offers mixed style of personalities taking the street walk in Thimphu- only city in the world without traffic lights. Overnight in Thimphu, altitude 2400m

Day 12: Thimphu Sightseeing
Thimphu- This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country. Thimphu is the most modern city with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs and shopping centers. However it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization, often referred as world only city without traffic lights. Buddha Dordenma- The Buddha Dordenma is located at a top of the hill in Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park and overlooks the southern entrance to Thimphu valley. The Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic 51.5-meter tall statue, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. Arts and Crafts Vocational School- Arts and Craft School is where student learn 13 different techniques to master in Bhutanese Arts. Some of the skills required eight years to graduate. You can see live carving, painting, sculpture etc. You are allowed to take the pictures/make video. Products made by students are on display at the showroom for sales as well. The school is closed in July and December to February, beside their exams and events. Folk Heritage Museum-This museum was established in 2001 and provides visitors with fascinating insights into the Bhutanese material culture and way of life, especially the life of Bhutanese in remote parts of Bhutan. Authentic Bhutanese Crafts Bazaar- Bhutan’s first ever craft bazaar located behind Hotel Taj Tashi showcases wide range of authentic Bhutan-made arts and craft products with reasonable price range. Handicraft Emporium- Realizing the importance of socio-economic growth, handicraft emporium was set up with the command of His Majesty 3^rd King, this was the first step to showcase the authentic Bhutanese handicraft products in Bhutan. You can still find some of the fine products available here at reasonable cost. Witnessing Archery Match- Archery is the national game of Bhutan, it is amazing to see Bhutanese archers hitting target from a distance of 145 meters range. Bhutan has top archers on some categories on Olympic games. Weekend Market/Centenary Farmers Market– An interesting well organized permanent set of stalls built for vegetable vendors across the country. Its open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays. One can find wide range of local vegetables and fruits. Other side of the river is place for indigenous goods and handicrafts section, where locally produced goods, including religious objects, cloth, baskets and hats etc from various minority groups are sold here. These shops are open from Friday to Sunday only. Clock Tower Square- Situated in the heart of town, Clock Tower Square is a popular venue for open ground events such as cultural festivals, concerts, fund- raising events, live shows and trade fairs. The place is bounded by shops, cafes, souvenir shops and restaurants, making it one of the main attractions in the Thimphu town. Overnight in Thimphu

Day 13: Thimphu to Punakha (2 hrs drive)
Start the most scenic drive to Punakha from Thimphu over dochula pass which takes about two hours.  After the break at Dochula, the road descends into Wangdue and Punakha taking us to one of the warmest places of Bhutan. Dochula Pass- The pass is at a popular location as it offers a stunning 180 degree panoramic view of the Great Himalayan mountain ranges. The view is especially scenic and very clear on winter days with snowcapped mountains forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass. Lamperi Botanical Park- The park has many varieties of plants, herbs, birds and animals. This park is one of the must visit place for birds and nature lovers. You may enjoy the hot packed lunch here if you had planned picnic. Punakha Dzong- Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo religious head of Bhutan. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. This is one of the finest and must see Dzongs of Bhutan. The Dzong stands in between meeting point of two rivers, Phochu and Mochu making the most photogenic Dzongs of Bhutan. Punakha Suspension Bridge- Punakha suspension bridge is considered one of the longest of its kind in Bhutan. The bridge connects the dzong with the villages Shengana, Samdingkha and Wangkha on the other bank of the Po Chhu river. In these small villages, locals sell their wares in tiny, traditional shops. Visitors can stop here for a quick and authentic view of true Bhutan. The suspension bridge is only about 15 minutes’ walk from Punakha Dzong. Overnight in Punakha, altitude 1350m

Day 14: Punakha to Bumthang (7-8 hrs drive)
The drive though newly constructed road is quite smooth however some of the stretch are still under maintenance. The drive will pass through abundant natural beauty, spectacular landscapes, rich flora and fauna, breath taking hills and snow capped mountains and iconic Buddhist monasteries. Enjoy the drive through a region of diverse people with unique dialects, dress, food and lifestyle. Today we will be crossing Wangdue, Trongsa and over two passes up until we reach Bumthang. Chendebji Chorten– Located at 2430m, built in the style of the great Bodhanath Temple of Nepal, was constructed by Tshering Wangchuk son of Yon-Say and the Mahasiddha Zhidag in accordance with the prophecy of the second Gangteng Tulku Tenzin Lekpai Dhundrup in order to subdue harmful demons. Trongsa- This district falls at the centre of Bhutan and was considered crucial in controlling the kingdom in ancient history due to its strategic position of the district and particularly Trongsa Dzong. Trongsa Dzong- This is the largest Dzong (fortress) in Bhutan, located in the centre of the country. The Dzong is beautifully built on a spur overlooking the gorge of the Mangde Chhu River. The Dzong played very crucial role in the ancient history in protecting Bhutan and its sovereignty. The ruler of Trongsa Dzong was the most powerful leader to form Wangchuk Dynasty in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Trongsa Ta Dzong (Museum)- The watch tower was built in 1652 by first Governor of Trongsa. This was built to oversee and safeguard the Trongsa Dzong from any invading forces. Today it houses the Royal Heritage museum. The displays in the museum focused on Buddhist art and Royal memorabilia. Yotongla Pass- The pass divides Trongsa and Bumthang districts. This is one of the highest motor-able road pass at the height of 3460m. The pass is covered with mist and prayer flags most of the time. It is worth for a stop for photo break. Yatha Wool Weaving Center- This center is well known for woolen products, most of the yatha products are made from yak hair, sheep wool and other animal’s wool. This is the best place for buying woolen products like (jackets, caps, purse, muffler etc) Overnight in Bumthang, altitude 2600m

Day 15: Bumthang Sightseeing
Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of its oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries.  It is famous for its brightly coloured distinctive woolen item called Yathra and district formed by four valleys. Jakar Dzong or the “Castle of the White Bird”- Dominates the Chamkhar valley and overlooks the town, 3km 1.2 miles away from Chamkhar town. Jampay Lhakhang- One of the oldest temples built in the country. This is the home of the naked dance that is still performed annually. It is believed that the temple is built in 7^th century by Songtsen Gonpo of Tibet. Kurjey Lhakhang- The site where Guru Padmasambhava left the body imprint on the rock behind the temple. Visit for its artistic works and amazing structure. Kharchu Dratsang Monastery- This is an amazing experience to see monks chanting the mantras. The monastery has become part of an extensive effort to preserve and revitalize Bhutanese culture and heritage. Tamzing Lhakhang- Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, contains paintings of fundamental interest for the history of painting in this region. Is also one of the oldest temples in the valley. Swiss Cheese Farm & Red Panda Brewery- The Swiss Farm is established by Mr. Fritz Maurer. The project introduced brewing, farming machinery and fuel-efficient, smokeless wood stoves to the valley, as well as its first tourist guesthouse in Bumthang. Swiss cheese and Bhutan’s only native beer, Red Panda, is brewed here. Fees applicable. Overnight in Bumthang

Day 16: Bumthang to Phobjikha (5-6 hrs drive)
Starting early from Bumthang will give us more time on roads to enjoy some of the best view points and passes. The journey will pass through Yotongla, Trongsa, Chendebji and Pelela before arriving in Phobjikha the valley of Black Necked Cranes and rhododendron. Village Life Experience- This experience is a particularly fun and spontaneous way to connect with the local community and learn about Bhutanese culture and way of living.  Farmhouse stay/village homestay means staying with local family, sleeping on the floor, toilets not attached, no television, no Wi-Fi and this is ultimate Bhutanese experience. Overnight in Phobjikha, altitude 2900m

Day 17: Phobjikha Sightseeing
The valley of black necked cranes and rhododendron and is often referred as Asian Switzerland. The natural beauty of the Phobjikha, beautiful home stays and nature adds more value to experience the living style, food habit and culture of the Bhutanese people. Black Necked Crane Information Centre- This place is run by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) and has an observation room with high-power telescopes and good scope for spotting the famous Black Necked Cranes which migrates to the region during winter. It also displays information about the history of the region. Gangtey Gompa – The temple built over hill top, headed by Gangtey Tulku the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. Annual festival of Gangtey is preformed in the temple courtyard every year. This is also the place for black necked crane’s festival held every year on 11-Nov, coinciding with His Majesty’s Fourth King’s Birthday. Gangtey Nature Trail- It is a short and relatively easy trek with several beautiful villages and monasteries en route. It offers beautiful views of the country with mostly gentle, forested slopes. All-time best trail and it takes approx. 2 hours, the trails ends at the road next to Khewang Lhakhang. Overnight in Phobjikha

Day 18: Phobjikha to Paro (5 hrs drive)
As we say good bye to the Asian Switzerland, we will retrace the journey back to Thimphu crossing over Pelela, Wangdue, Dochula, up until Chuzom and further to Paro. The entire stretch of drive will refresh your mind and give you second chance to enjoy the great snowcapped mountain views of the Himalayas. Riverside Visit- visit to riverside to enjoy the crystal clear river and group video/photo is must in Paro. HBT guides will take you to the best place to enjoy at beautiful river banks of Paro. Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point- The Paro international airport is among the top 10 most stunning and challenging airports in the world. The view point offers an exquisite view of the Paro valley. Rinpung Dzong- ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels’, is ranked one of the best Bhutanese architecture. The massive buttressed walls that tower over the town are visible throughout the valley, particularly when landing at Paro Airport.  The Dzong also offers administrative seat of the district of Paro. The Dzong was built in 1644 under the order of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. National Museum of Paro- Perched above Paro Dzong it was watchtower built in 1649 to protect the undefended Paro Dzong located below, renovated in 1968 to house the National Museum. Today this museum houses the best collections of all time historical items making worth for a visit. Paro Town- Tiny Paro town actually can offer lot more, there are many authentic handicraft shops, readily available Bhutan made products, grocery and imported garment shops beside having many small restaurants around. Overnight in Paro, altitude 2200m

Day 19: Paro Sightseeing
This picturesque region in the kingdom is covered in fertile rice fields and has a beautiful, crystalline river meandering down the valley. Paro has more of historical sites, high-end tourist resort and many souvenir shops for shopping including world famous Takstang. Taktsang/Tiger’s Nest Temple– is Bhutan’s most iconic landmark and religious Buddhist site in the world. The name Taktsang translates to “The Tiger’s Nest”. The temple is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan which clings impossibly to a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley. Although good trekkers can make it to the top in two hours, most of the guests take whole day to complete the hike. Outdoor Activities- Nicely made and well maintained activity place attached to whole sell Buddha statue store, offers wearing Bhutanese dress, playing archery and darts for guests visiting Bhutan. The center is maintained and operated by HBT herself and its free of cost for all HBT guests. Overnight in Paro

Day 20: End of the Tour
Departure from the Kingdom of Bhutan

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