Sri Lanka Nepal Bhutan Bangladesh Tours

Our Asia Experiences staff welcomes you and greets you warmly after you arrive at Colombo Airport. Along with a Sri Lankan chauffeur guide, transfer to the hotel for rest and refreshments. Later explore some popular attractions in Colombo such as the Old Colombo Dutch Hospital, Pettah Bazaar, and Arcade of Independence Square. Spend a night in a hotel.

• Old Colombo Dutch Hospital- The oldest building in the Colombo Fort Area which is now a heritage site
• Pettah Bazaar, Arcade of Independence Square- Popular Shopping Centers for all types of goods

Drive to Habarana and proceed on a beautiful village tour of Hiriwadunna Village. This village tour takes you on a Catamaran boat ride over the beautiful Hiriwadunna Lake. The village tour gives deep insights into traditional village life, culture, and food. Then, head for an exciting Jeep Safari in the Hurulu Forest Reserve where you can witness diverse flora and fauna species such as elephants, peacocks, birds, colorful plant species, etc. Return to a hotel for an overnight stay.

• Hiriwadunna Village tour- Learn about traditional village life and culture
• Hurulu Forest Reserve- Jeep Safari to witness diverse flora and fauna species

Take an hour scenic ride to Anuradhapura which is famous for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site also fondly called the ‘Garden of Dagobas’. Visit iconic sites in the vicinity such as Jetavanaramaya Monastery, Ruwanweliseya Stupa, sacred Bodhi tree, Abhayagiri Monastery Complex, Samadhi Buddha Statue, Thuparmaya, Isurumuniya Temple, Kuttam Pokuna, and Archaeological Museum. Return to Habarana for an overnight stay.

• Ruwanweliseya Stupa and Jetavanaramaya Monastery- A city's sacred largest two structures
• Sri Maha Bodhi tree- Holy tree situated in the Mahamevnāwa Gardens
• Thuparamaya- The first stupa in Sri Lanka
• Abhayagiri Monastery Complex- Famous for its inspiring ruins
• Samadhi Buddha Statue- Lies in Mahamevnāwa Park which is carved from dolomite marble
• Kuttam Pokuna- An ancient twin bathing pool
• Isurumuniya Temple- Unbelievable architectural wonders and sophisticated sculptures
• Archaeological Museum- Gain Sri Lanka’s historical and cultural insights

Take a short ride to UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress for an early morning hike. Get rewarded with stunning surrounding views and explore ruined halls, citadel, Mirror Wall, ancient Frescoes, and beautiful gardens and moats.

Walk downhill and drive to Dambulla Cave Temple which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are mainly 5 caves perched on Dambulla Rock that hold great historical and cultural significance. Adore the awesome surrounding scenery from here. Next, proceed to Kandy which takes about 2 hours.

On the way stop at Ranweli Spice Garden in Matale where you get to learn about spice variations, their uses, and health benefits. Some popular varieties of spices include Nutmeg, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Cardamom, etc. Continue to drive to Kandy and transfer to the hotel. Attend Kandy Cultural Dance Shows in the evening and stay overnight in a hotel.

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress- Famous for its ancient ruins, frescoes, and breathtaking surrounding views is a UNESCO Heritage Site
• Dambulla Caves- Historical and culturally significant 5 caves
• Dambulla Rock- Adore the awesome surrounding scenery from Dambulla Rock
• Ranweli Spice Garden- Variety of spices and get insights on their uses and health benefits
• Kandy Cultural Dance Shows- Relish Traditional dance performances

Visit the historically and culturally important Tooth Relic Temple where Lord Buddha's tooth is treasured. It is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site listed as a UNESCO Heritage site.

Drive to Negombo (Colombo) and on the way stop at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya. A huge garden is popular for its orchid varieties, Orchid House, Javan fig tree, beautiful Avenue of Palms, and 4000 plant species including medicinal and endemic.

Continue to drive and en route stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Get an opportunity to witness the largest Wild Elephant herds closely. This orphanage is a nursery and breeding center for captive Wild elephants where you can feed, play, and bathe the elephants. From here, continue to drive to Negombo and transfer to a hotel for an overnight stay.

• Tooth Relic Temple- A UNESCO-listed site where Lord Buddha’s tooth is treasured
• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage- A nursery and breeding center for captive Wild Elephants
• Royal Botanic Gardens- Relish the orchid varieties, 4000 plant species, Javan Fig tree, etc.

Take a scenic flight to Kathmandu (Nepal) from Colombo. Land at the TIA airport and apply for a Nepal Visa which is easy, quick, and only takes 15-20 minutes. A warm greeting and welcome from our representative and a transfer to the hotel after completing all formalities. Rest, relax, and later take a short visit to nearby places. Spend a night in a hotel.

Kathmandu Sightseeing commences after breakfast where we visit UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. Visit the former royal palace Bhaktapur Durbar Square which is renowned for its Victorian-style temples, artistic courtyards, numerous sculptures, and well-preserved architecture. Also, try delicious Newari cuisine and the famous Juju Dhau (King Curd). After a half day of sightseeing head to our next destination Boudhanath Stupa. It is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site which is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. End your day with a visit to the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath. Relish the evening ‘Aarti’ which is mesmerizing and serene to witness. Return to a hotel for an overnight stay.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Historically and culturally significant and prominent for its architectural wonders
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the biggest Buddhist stupas in Nepal
• Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva

Fly to Pokhara relishing a scenic flight that takes approx. 25 minutes and drive to a hotel. Visit popular attractions such as Davis Falls or Devi’s Falls and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. Explore the lakeside area and nearby markets. In the evening, attend a cultural dance show and folk songs performed at restaurants for dinner. Spend a night in a hotel.

• Davis Falls (Devi’s Falls): A beautiful waterfall and most visited attractions in Pokhara
• Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave: A fascinating cave that has a Lord Shiva idol and sight of Davis Falls

Wake up early to relish the sunrise view over the majestic Himalayan ranges from Sarangkot. Take a short scenic ride in a private vehicle to get to Sarangkot. Get mesmerized to witness the panoramic views of the Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, and Annapurna ranges. Return to a hotel for breakfast.

Continue to Pokhara sightseeing by visiting popular attractions Seti Gorge, and the International Mountain Museum. Cherish the amazing boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit the Tal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake. Adore the fabulous views of Machhapuchhre and other mountain ranges while boat riding.

After an amazing boat ride, explore the lakeside area, visit markets, and relish the nightlife of Pokhara. Return to a hotel for an overnight stay.

• Sarangkot: Famous viewpoint for sunrise over the majestic Himalayan ranges
• Seti Gorge: Beautiful scenic gorge
• International Mountain Museum: Learn about the culture and lifestyle of mountain people
• Phewa Lake Boat Ride: Adore beautiful mountain vistas on a scenic boat ride and visit Tal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake

Note: (There is an option of sightseeing around Peace Stupa, Pumdikot Shiva Statue, or Annapurna Cable Car ride for interested travelers.)

Take a scenic drive to Chitwan from Pokhara which takes about 4-5 hours (optional flight: 25 minutes). Transfer to the hotel for rest and refreshment. Later visit the nearby beautiful Tharu Village inhabited by Tharu indigenous. Learn about Tharu culture, tradition, and lifestyle. Try authentic Tharu cuisine and interact with the local Tharu people. Relish the Tharu stick dance in the evening. Return to a hotel for an overnight stay.

• Tharu Village Tour: Interact with Tharu Indigenous, learn about their culture, tradition, and lifestyle, and enjoy cultural dance

Commence your day with a Jeep tour to Chitwan National Park. Enjoy the safari passing through varied flora and encountering fauna species. Get sight of diverse bird species, wild species, and plant species. If lucky get sight of a one-horned rhino and Royal Bengal Tiger. Visit the Crocodile Breeding Center and Elephant Breeding Center. End your day with a canoe ride over the Rapti River and relish the magical sunset view. Spend a night at the hotel.

• Jeep Tour: Chitwan National Tour Jeep Safari, Visit Crocodile Breeding Center and Elephant Breeding Center, Canoe ride, etc.

Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. A leisure day to explore on your own. Explore the old Ason market and vibrant Thamel market. Stroll around, do shopping, or just freely walk around. Join us for a farewell dinner in a classic Nepali Restaurant which includes authentic Nepali dishes and cultural dance in the evening. Spend a night in a hotel.

• Ason or Thamel Market: Visit the old Ason market and vibrant Thamel market for short tours or shopping

Take a scenic flight to Paro in Bhutan and land at the world’s one of the extreme Paro International Airport. Our guide greets and welcomes you and transfers you to the café/restaurant for lunch or snacks as your preference.

Proceed to Thimphu in a private vehicle admiring the scenic surroundings. Stop halfway to visit the 16th-century Tachogang Lhakhang temple. Traverse a bridge to visit the ancient temple and adore the surrounding views from the bridge. Continue to drive to Thimphu and get transferred to the hotel.

Later, commence Thimphu sightseeing with a visit to popular landmarks such as the National Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, and the Great Buddha Dordenma statue at Kuensel Phodrang. Spend a night in a hotel.

• Tachogang Lhakhang temple: 16th-century ancient temple
• National Memorial Chorten: Large white structure with a golden spiral with impressive exterior
• Tashichho Dzong: A popular Buddhist monastery also called Fortress of the Glorious Religion features a central tower, chapels, temples, and shrines
• Great Buddha Dordenma: An enormous Great Buddha Dordenma statue is a perfect vantage point to cherish the beautiful city view of Thimphu

Drive to Punakha from Thimphu which is house to the largest suspension bridge in Bhutan. Visit the Punakha Dzong which was built completely without using nails. Attend the popular Punakha festival if you are here around mid-February. Next, visit Chhimi Lakhang, the renowned Fertility Temple of Bhutan. Complete the Punakha tour and return to Thimphu for an overnight stay.

• Punakha Dzong: Second-oldest prominent Dzong in Bhutan
• Chhimi Lakhang: Worldwide renowned Fertility Temple worshipped by childless couples devoted to the Divine Madman

Drive to Paro early in the morning after breakfast and arrive at the foothill of the iconic Taktsang Monastery. It is popularly called Tiger’s Nest Monastery and is the most-visited landmark in Bhutan. It is perched on the Cliff above Paro Valley and holds great historical and cultural significance. A holy Vajrayana Himalayan Buddhist site that is believed to have been meditated by Guru Padmasambhava for more than three years to ward off evil spirits.

A hike to the monastery is tiring but rewarding as it offers awesome surrounding views. Stop halfway for a short break and rest. Make sure to wear appropriate clothes to enter the monastery and strictly follow the guidelines. It is at an elevation of 3,120 m so hike slowly maintaining your speed. Visit the monastery, and caves, and interact with monks. The peaceful ambiance of the monastery is magical to witness. After completing the hike, descend slowly admiring the views. Return to a hotel and the remaining day is free. Explore the local market, or visit nearby attractions. Spend a night in a hotel.

Note: There is an option of a pony ride for travelers having physical difficulty during the Tiger’s Nest hike.

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Exciting hike to a holy Vajrayana Buddhist site at an elevation of 3,120 m.

Fly to Dhaka (Bangladesh) from Paro where you are welcomed by our representative. Transfer to the hotel for relaxation. Commence Dhaka sightseeing and the city is classified as Old Dhaka and New Dhaka. These cities have numerous historic and cultural landmarks. Some popular landmarks in both Old and New Dhaka are as follows:

• Tara Mosque (Star Mosque): Phenomenal interior and exterior architecture
• Armenian Church: Historically significant architectural memorial
• Bahadur Shah Park: A historically significant striking war memorial
• Lalbagh Fort: 17^th-century incomplete Mughal Fort with its impressive Mughal architecture
• Dhakeshwari Temple: Holy Hindu temple which is one of the oldest in Dhaka
• Ahsan Manzil Museum: It houses numerous beautiful paintings and artifacts
• Liberation War Museum: Displays the History of Bangladesh
• Buriganga River: Relish a boat ride and adore the beauty of the river and its surroundings

Drive to Sonargaon which is a historic city with prominent landmarks such as archaeological sites, Hindu temples, Sufi shrines, and historic mosques and tombs. Goaldi Mosque, Folk Arts and Craft Museum, and Panama City are popular places to explore.

• Goaldi Mosque: 15th-century mosque renowned for its pre-Mughal architecture
  Folk Arts and Craft Museum: Rich textile culture from the 17^th century onwards
• Panama City/Nagar: Visit this city and take a boat tour around the Meghna River that takes you to Sandbank Island, the traditional village

Drive to Bogura or Bogra, one of the important cities in Bangladesh recognized for its ancient Buddhist stupas, Hindu temples, and ancient palaces of Muslim sultans, and Buddhist kings. There are several popular landmarks like Mahasthangarh, Govinda Bhita Temple, Gokul Medh, Basu Bihar, etc.

• Mahasthangarh: The oldest archeological site surrounded by ancient buildings
  Govinda Bhita Temple: Famous Hindu temple in the Citadel’s vicinity
  Gokul Medh: Also known as the Behula Lakshindar Bashor Ghor is an important archaeological site
  Basu Bihar: It displays the architecture, art, and lifestyle and is a significant Buddhist site

Drive to Paharpur which is renowned for its archaeological sites and thus historically and culturally prominent city in Bangladesh. Mahayana Buddhism or Vajrayana came to rise in this city has numerous popular attractions like the Kusumba Mosque, Somapura Mahavihara, and many more.

• Kusumba Mosque: The 14^th to 16^th-century stone-carved art with an impressive architecture
• Somapura Mahavihara: UNESCO Heritage Site listed significant archeological site that includes ancient statues, inscriptions, coins, ceramics, and terracotta plaques

Drive to Rajshahi after sightseeing in Paharpur. Rajshahi is a beautiful and significant city that has world-class architecture, cultural institutions, lush green spaces, turreted castles, and vibrant buildings. Varendra Research Museum, Puthia Temple, and Bagha Mosque are some prominent landmarks.

• Varendra Research Museum: The oldest museum that houses an extensive collection of archaeology, anthropology, history, and art
• Puthia Temple: A holy Hindu temple that has unique designs with intricate terracotta carvings, stunning wood, and stone carvings
  
• The Bagha Mosque: Beautiful archaeological site with outstanding early Islamic architecture

We hope you had a great time and created some amazing memories in these combined Sri Lanka Nepal Bhutan Bangladesh tours. The guide bids farewell and drops you at the Dhaka airport for your departure as a scheduled flight to your next destination. Hope to see you again and have a safe journey.