This tour offers a rich cultural journey through the medieval heritage of the Kathmandu Valley, followed by a scenic exploration of Darjeeling and the Himalayan state of Sikkim. It is designed to give travelers a deeper understanding of the region’s history, art, architecture, and living traditions.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu Valley with a visit to Patan Durbar Square, one of Nepal’s finest examples of Newari art and architecture. Renowned for its exceptional artistic value, Patan has a history dating back to the 4th century BC. The city is believed to have been founded by Emperor Ashoka, who built the four ancient stupas at the four corners of Patan. The palace complex reflects the architectural brilliance of the medieval era and is home to both Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments.
Major highlights of Patan Durbar Square include the three principal courtyards—Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk, and Keshav Narayan Chowk. At the heart of Sundari Chowk lies the exquisite stone masterpiece known as Tusha Hiti, the royal bath. Other notable attractions include the Golden Temple (Hiranya Varna Mahavihar), Patan Museum, Krishna Temple, and Mahaboudha Temple, also known as the Temple of a Thousand Buddhas.
The journey then continues to Bhadrapur, the gateway to Darjeeling, a charming hill station located at an altitude of approximately 2,042 meters. In Darjeeling, you will visit renowned attractions such as Tiger Hill, lush tea estates, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. A ride on the famous Darjeeling Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage experience, adds a nostalgic charm to the trip.
After Darjeeling, the tour proceeds to Sikkim, the least populous state of India and a region blessed with dramatic Himalayan landscapes. The state’s altitude ranges from 280 meters to 8,586 meters, offering remarkable geographical diversity. Key destinations in Sikkim include Gangtok, Kalimpong, Yuksom, Durpin Dara, and Raja Dorje Market.
Sikkim is also renowned for its spiritual heritage. Visitors can explore important religious sites such as Ganesh Tok, Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Sanga Choeling Monastery, Dubdi Monastery, and Durpin Monastery.
This journey beautifully blends history, culture, spirituality, and natural beauty, offering a deeper insight into the diverse cultures and lifestyles of Nepal and the eastern Himalayas of India.
Outline Itinerary
Price Details.
For more information on price, please email us at ehtours@explorehimalayatravel.com
Detail Itinerary.
Upon arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by our office representatives who will the transfer you to the hotel in Kathmandu.
Rest of the day at leisure
PATAN CITY
Patan Durbar Square complex, also known as Lalitpur is one of the oldest Buddhist cities. Patan Durbar Square and its surroundings is a good specimen of ancient Newa architecture. There are three main courtyards in the palace: Mul Chowk, Sundari Chowk and Keshav Narayan Chowk. Mul Chowk, the oldest one is at the centre of Patan Durbar Square. Several multi-sized and multi-styled temples occupy the western part of the complex. The main among these are Krishna Temple, Bhimsen Temple and the Golden Temple of Hiranya Varna. The city of Patan offers visitors the chance to see an abundance of exquisite works of religious art and architecture. In the heart of Lalitpur city, Patan Durbar Square is filled with ancient palaces, pagoda temples, stone baths, Hindu and Buddhist statues, engravings, and bronze carvings. Patan Durbar Square is one of seven monument zones in the Kathmandu Valley that together have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also located in the square is the Patan Museum, which houses bronze statues and religious objects, some dating back to the 11th century.
Rest of the day at leisure
