From the Himalayas to the Sacred Ganges: A Journey Through Bhutan & India
- Sep 13, 2025
- 10 min read
Updated: May 8
From the peaceful monasteries of the Himalayas to the sacred banks of the Ganges, this journey unfolds through landscapes shaped by devotion, history, and timeless tradition.
Explore Bhutan’s serene mountain kingdom and India’s vibrant royal cities, where ancient temples, living rituals, and sacred rivers reveal a world both deeply spiritual and profoundly alive.
Each destination offers its own rhythm—quiet moments of reflection, magnificent architecture, and encounters with cultures that continue to honor the sacred in everyday life.
Led by Catherine, this is not just a tour—it is a passage through sacred landscapes, cultural wisdom, and moments of stillness that linger long after the journey ends.
TOUR ROUTE
LAX – Kathmandu – Paro (Bhutan) – Thimphu – Punakha – Paro – Delhi – Agra – Jaipur – Varanasi (Banaras) – Delhi – LAX
TRAVEL DATE
Mar 18, 2027 – Apr 5, 2027
PRICING
Early Bird: $6,885 (valid until July 31, 2026)
Package Price: $7,285 (after July 31, 2026)
Nepal – Gateway to the Himalayas
Arrive in Kathmandu, where ancient temples, prayer flags, and the quiet rhythm of Nepal offer a gentle introduction to they Himalayas. Enjoy a half-day sightseeing experience and welcome dinner before resting overnight in Kathmandu. The following morning, continue onward to Bhutan, where the next chapter of the journey begins among the monasteries and mountain landscapes of the Himalayas.
Highlights
🌺 Boudha Stupa, Kathmandu – One of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas, alive with prayer, chanting, and devotion
🏯 Kathmandu, Patan & Bhaktapur Durbar Squares (UNESCO) – Royal palaces, sacred temples, and exquisite Newari architecture
Bhutan – The Last Himalayan Kingdom
Bhutan is a place where happiness is a national philosophy and spirituality shapes everyday life. Untouched, intentional, and deeply peaceful, this kingdom offers a rare glimpse into a world moving at a slower, more mindful pace.
Highlights
🏔️ Scenic Flight into Paro Valley – A quiet, awe-filled arrival as the Himalayas unfold beneath you
🕊️ Thimphu Valley – A capital that feels unhurried, where tradition and daily life move side by side
🙏 Memorial Chorten & Wangditse Temple – Spaces of living prayer, where locals gather in quiet devotion
📜 National Library of Bhutan – Ancient texts carefully preserved, holding centuries of spiritual knowledge
🎨 Institute of Zorig Chusum – Watching tradition passed hand to hand through Bhutan’s 13 sacred arts
🛕 Dochula Pass – 108 chortens rising into mist, where the mountains feel close and still
🌊 Punakha Dzong – Set between two rivers, where architecture and nature exist in perfect balance
🥾 Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten – A steady walk upward, ending in silence and open views across the valley
🌸 Chimi Lhakhang – A place of blessings, where devotion is expressed with both sincerity and lightness
🐅 Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang) – Reached step by step, and felt more deeply than it can be described
🕯️ Kyichu Lhakhang – A quiet, enduring presence—one of Bhutan’s oldest sacred spaces
🏛️ Paro Dzong & National Museum – A glimpse into Bhutan’s history, held carefully between past and present
India – Where Empires, Devotion & Sacred Rituals Endure
India is a land of extraordinary contrasts—royal palaces beside ancient bazaars, sacred rivers beside bustling cities, and timeless rituals woven into everyday life. From the Mughal grandeur of Delhi and Agra to the royal elegance of Jaipur and the spiritual heart of Varanasi, this journey reveals India through history, devotion, architecture, and living tradition.
Highlights
🏛️ Delhi – Old & New Delhi – Moving between narrow lanes and open boulevards, where history and daily life overlap
🕌 Jama Masjid, Delhi – One of India’s grandest mosques, surrounded by the vibrant energy and timeless chaos of Old Delhi
🛺 Chandni Chowk – Rickshaw rides through spice-scented lanes, colorful bazaars, hidden shrines, and centuries of living history
🏰 Red Fort & Humayun’s Tomb – Mughal masterpieces reflecting the power, artistry, and elegance of imperial India
Lotus Temple & Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Sacred spaces of peace, devotion, and spiritual openness across faiths
🗼 Qutb Minar – A soaring UNESCO monument and one of the earliest architectural wonders of Islamic India
🌅 Taj Mahal, Agra – India’s iconic marble masterpiece, glowing softly at sunrise as a timeless symbol of love
🏰 Agra Fort & 🤍 Itmad-ud-Daulah – Elegant Mughal palaces, gardens, and marble artistry along the Yamuna River
🏛️ Fatehpur Sikri – The hauntingly beautiful abandoned capital of Emperor Akbar, preserved in red sandstone grandeur
Chand Baori – One of India’s most mesmerizing stepwells, descending in perfect geometric symmetry
👑 Jaipur – The Pink City of Rajasthan, filled with royal palaces, vibrant markets, and desert elegance
🏰 Amber Fort – A majestic hilltop fortress of mirrored halls, royal courtyards, and sweeping desert views
🌬️ Hawa Mahal & 🌞 Jantar Mantar – Architectural beauty and astronomical wonder at the heart of Jaipur
🌊 Jal Mahal & 🌈 Patrika Gate – Serene lakeside beauty and vibrant Rajasthani artistry
🪔 Varanasi – One of the world’s oldest living cities, where sacred rituals unfold continuously along the Ganges River
🚣 Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride – Witness pilgrims, prayers, and morning light illuminating the ancient ghats of Varanasi
🛕 Kashi Vishwanath Temple – One of Hinduism’s holiest temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and spiritual liberation
🔥 Dashashwamedh Ghat & Evening Ganga Aarti – A profound riverside ceremony of fire, chanting, devotion, and sacred offering
☸️ Sarnath – The revered Buddhist pilgrimage site where the Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment
🕍 Dhamek Stupa – A sacred monument honoring the beginning of the Buddha’s teaching journey
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:
Day 1–3 (Thu–Sat, 3/18–3/20): LAX → Kathmandu
Day 3 (Sat, Mar 20): Kathmandu – Half-day Sightseeing (D)
Day 4 (Sun, Mar 21): Kathmandu → Paro → Thimphu (B, D)
Day 5–9: Bhutan Exploration (B, L, D)
Day 10 (Sat, Mar 27): Paro → Delhi. Arrival in Delhi – Orientation Walk & Welcome Dinner (B, D)
Day 11 (Sun, Mar 28): Delhi Heritage Tour – Old Delhi & Mughal Landmarks (B, L, D)
Day 12 (Mon, Mar 29): Delhi → Agra – Mehtab Bagh Sunset View of Taj Mahal (B, D)
Day 13 (Tue, Mar 30): Agra – Taj Mahal Sunrise, Agra Fort & Baby Taj (B, L, D)
Day 14 (Wed, Mar 31): Agra → Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri & Chand Baori (B, L, D)
Day 15 (Thu, Apr 1): Jaipur – Amber Fort, City Palace & Pink City Exploration (B, L, D)
Day 16 (Fri, Apr 2): Jaipur → Varanasi – Old City Walk & Evening Ghats (B, D)
Day 17 (Sat, Apr 3): Sacred Varanasi – Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride & Ganga Aarti (B, L, D)
Day 18 (Sun, Apr 4): Varanasi → Sarnath → Delhi (B, D)
Day 19 (Mon, Apr 5): Delhi → LAX
PRICE INCLUDES:
International and domestic flights
All transportation by private vehicle
Professional English-speaking guides
4-star hotels
Daily breakfast, dinners, and 10 lunches
Entrance fee, shuttle bus & any other fees of the scenic spots as required
Activities & excursions as listed in the itinerary
PRICE EXCLUDES:
Travel and health insurance
Visas (Nepal, Bhutan, India – approx. $120 total)
Gratuities: $10 per person per day (collected prior to the trip)
RESERVATIONS:
To reserve your spot:
Call Catherine at Tarzana Tour & Travel: 626-380-7948
Email passport copy to: catherine@tarzanatour.com
A $500 deposit is required and is non-refundable and non-transferable. By submitting your deposit, you acknowledge and agree to the reservation and cancellation policy.
Disclaimer / Release of Liability Agreement
Please note: Airfares are constantly fluctuating now more than ever, and due to the frequent airline cancellation beyond our control; hence, price subject to change without prior notice.
ITINERARY DETAILS:
Day 1 – Mar 18 → Day 3 – Mar 20 | LAX – Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 3 – Mar 20 | Arrival in Kathmandu – Kathmandu UNESCO Heritage Tour (D)
Gateway to the Himalayas
Arrive in Kathmandu, where ancient temples, prayer flags, and the quiet rhythm of Nepal offer a gentle introduction to they Himalayas. Enjoy a half-day sightseeing experience and welcome dinner before resting overnight in Kathmandu. The following morning, continue onward to Bhutan, where the next chapter of the journey begins among the monasteries and mountain landscapes of the Himalayas.
Day 4 – Mar 21 | Kathmandu → Paro (Bhutan) – Thimphu (B, D)
Into the Last Himalayan Kingdom
Fly into Bhutan’s spectacular Paro Valley and drive to Thimphu, stopping at meaningful landmarks along the way.
Chuzom – A rare confluence marked by three distinct styles of stupas.
Tamchog Lhakhang – A 15th-century temple connected by a traditional iron chain bridge.
Memorial Chorten – A spiritual gathering place for daily prayer and meditation.
Wangditse Temple – A peaceful hilltop retreat overlooking Thimphu.
Tashichho Dzong – Bhutan’s majestic fortress housing the King’s offices and monastic body.
Day 5 – Mar 22 | Thimphu Valley Exploration (B, L, D)
Culture, Wisdom & Daily Bhutanese Life
Buddha Dordenma (Kuensel Phodrang) – One of the world’s largest Buddha statues with sweeping valley views.
National Library – Home to ancient Buddhist manuscripts and sacred texts.
Institute of Zorig Chusum – Discover Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts preserved through generations.
Thimphu Town & Markets – A gentle evening stroll through Bhutan’s charming capital.
Day 6 – Mar 23 | Thimphu → Punakha via Dochula Pass (B, L, D)
Mountain Passes & Sacred Fortresses
Drive through stunning landscapes to Punakha.
Dochula Pass – Famous for 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views on clear days.
Wangdue Dzong – Recently restored, symbolizing resilience and continuity.
Punakha Dzong – Widely regarded as Bhutan’s most beautiful dzong, set at the confluence of two rivers.
Day 7 – Mar 24 | Punakha Valley Exploration (B, L, D)
Pilgrimage & Blessings
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten – A scenic hike to a hilltop chorten built for peace and protection.
Chimi Lhakhang – Known as the Temple of Fertility, dedicated to the beloved “Divine Madman,” blending humor and devotion.
Day 8 – Mar 25 | Punakha → Paro (B, L, D)
Heritage & Valley Views
Return to Paro and explore Bhutan’s cultural treasures.
National Museum (Ta Dzong) – A former watchtower showcasing Bhutanese art and history.
Rinpung Dzong – An impressive fortress monastery overlooking Paro Valley.
Cantilever Bridge – One of Bhutan’s longest traditional bridges.
Paro Town – Leisurely evening to explore local shops and cafés.
Day 9 – Mar 26 | Paro – Tiger’s Nest Hike (B, L, D)
The Sacred Climb
Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktshang), dramatically perched on a cliffside. This spiritual journey is both physically rewarding and deeply moving. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples.
Day 10 – Mar 27 | Bhutan → Delhi, India (B, D)
From Himalayan Stillness to Imperial India
Depart Paro and fly to Delhi, where the quiet rhythm of the Himalayas gradually gives way to the movement and layered energy of India’s capital.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and take time to settle into a different pace of travel—one shaped by dynasties, devotion, and centuries of living history. In the evening, enjoy a gentle orientation walk through Delhi, followed by dinner and overnight rest before continuing deeper into India.
Day 11 – Mar 28 | Delhi – Layers of History (B, D)
Where Empires and Everyday Life Meet
Spend the day exploring the many faces of Delhi, where Mughal grandeur, spiritual devotion, and modern life exist side by side.
Begin at Jama Masjid before weaving through the lively lanes of Chandni Chowk by rickshaw. Pause for views of the great Red Fort, then continue to sacred spaces including Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and Lotus Temple.
Later, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Qutb Minar, masterpieces of Indo-Islamic architecture that reveal the enduring elegance of India’s imperial past.
Highlights:
• Jama Masjid
• Chandni Chowk Rickshaw Ride
• Red Fort (photo stop)
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
• Agrasen Ki Baoli
• India Gate (drive past)
• Humayun’s Tomb
• Lotus Temple
• Qutb Minar
Day 12 – Mar 29 | Delhi → Agra (B, L, D)
Toward Something Timeless
Travel to Agra, where the rhythm softens as you approach one of the world’s most enduring symbols.
In the evening, visit Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna River. As the light begins to fade, the Taj Mahal reveals a quieter side—less about grandeur, more about stillness and reflection.
Day 13 – Mar 30 | Agra – Mughal Grandeur (B, L, D)
Echoes of Empire
Rise early for sunrise at the Taj Mahal, when the marble glows softly beneath the morning sky and the monument feels at its most intimate and serene.
Continue to Agra Fort, where emperors once ruled from vast courtyards overlooking the river, then visit Itmad-ud-Daulah, often called the “Baby Taj,” admired for its delicate marble craftsmanship and intricate detail.
For those interested, an optional visit to Wildlife SOS offers a meaningful encounter with rescued elephants in an ethical conservation setting.
Highlights:
• Taj Mahal at Sunrise
• Agra Fort
• Itmad-ud-Daulah (“Baby Taj”)
• Optional: Wildlife SOS Elephant Sanctuary
Day 14 – Mar 31 | Taj Sunrise & Journey to Jaipur (B, L, D)
Light, Stone, and the Passage of Time
Journey toward Rajasthan with remarkable stops along the way.
Explore Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital of Emperor Akbar, where grand courtyards and silent palaces remain suspended in time.
Continue to Chand Baori, one of India’s most mesmerizing stepwells, descending in precise geometric symmetry deep into shadow and stone.
Arrive in Jaipur by evening, where the colors and artistry of Rajasthan begin to unfold.
Day 15 – Apr 1 | Jaipur – The Pink City (B, L, D)
Color, Craft, and Continuity
Spend the day in Jaipur, where royal heritage, artistry, and desert grandeur come alive in vivid color.
Visit Amber Fort, rising above the hills with layered courtyards and mirrored halls. Continue to City Palace, Jaipur and Jantar Mantar, where royal life and the study of time exist side by side.
Pause at Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal—moments that feel less like monuments and more like passing glimpses of a city still unfolding.
End the day at Patrika Gate, vibrant with the colors and artistic spirit of Rajasthan.
Day 16 – Apr 2 | Jaipur → Varanasi (B, D)
Into the Sacred City
Fly east to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and among the holiest places in Hinduism.
In the evening, walk through the old city’s narrow lanes, where shrines, incense, pilgrims, and daily ritual life exist in constant motion. Arrive at Dashashwamedh Ghat as twilight gathers along the Ganges, where chanting, bells, and sacred fire illuminate the riverfront.
Flight Schedule:
• AI 1834: Jaipur → Delhi | 08:35 – 09:35
• AI 1741: Delhi → Varanasi | 10:40 – 12:00
Day 17 – Apr 3 | Sacred Varanasi Experience (B, L, D)
Along the Eternal Ganges
Begin before dawn with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River, watching pilgrims gather along the ghats as the city slowly awakens in golden light.
Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, then continue exploring the alleyways, shrines, and riverside ghats that shape the spiritual rhythm of Varanasi.
In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat—a profound offering of fire, chanting, and devotion to the sacred river.
Day 18 – Apr 4 | Varanasi → Delhi (B, L, D)
Where the Buddha First Taught
This morning, travel to Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment.
Visit the great Dhamek Stupa and explore the surrounding archaeological ruins, where monasteries and centers of learning once flourished. The atmosphere here feels markedly different from Varanasi—quieter, contemplative, and deeply reflective.
Fly back to Delhi in the afternoon for your final evening in India.
Flight Schedule:
• AI 2624: Varanasi → Delhi | 15:45 – 17:25
Day 19 – Apr 5 | Departure (B)
Carrying It Forward
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
What began among mountains, monasteries, sacred rivers, and royal cities now continues in quieter ways—through memory, perspective, and the subtle shift in how you move through the world.
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