Magical Himalayan Kingdoms & A Journey to , , and Including Thailand May 16 - 29, 2017

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 1

(14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS) • THIMPHU • PARO • • LHASA

Nestled among the world's highest mountains are the legendary erstwhile kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan. The traditional culture and lifestyle of the people in these regions, as alive and intact as they have been for centuries, permeate all aspects of modern day life. From traditional woven garments to prayer flags fluttering on high mountain passes, from religious mask dances to folk dance, the cultural heritage of these regions is proudly evident everywhere. Serene forested valleys, majestic mountains and sprawling castle-like complete the magical picture of these majestic Himalayan kingdoms.

Thailand Known as the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand has become South East ’s primary holiday destination. Despite a vast influx of visitors, the country’s unique cultural heritage remains intact and the kingdom has managed to absorb Western influences without losing its own rich character. Bordered by to the north-west, to the north-east, to the south-east, and to the south, Thailand is truly at the heart of South East Asia and offers something for everyone, be it exploring ancient temples, shopping at gleaming modern malls, lounging on tropical island beaches, or trekking the rugged mountains of the northern provinces.

Bhutan The Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan is the last of the Buddhist kingdoms that once occupied a vast area of the . In Paro visit the old fortress of Drunkgyel and the dramatically poised cliff-top of Taktsang. In the capital, Thimphu, we will see the Tashichoe Dzong, a prominent building constructed in the traditional Bhutanese style, without the use of nails or metal of any kind.

Nepal Rudyard Kipling’s observation that, “The wildest dreams of Kew are the facts of Kathmandu” holds true even today. It is said that there is a temple or idol for every soul living in the city, and Kathmandu is a treasure house just waiting to be explored. With its ancient temples, straggly-looking holy men and its fascinating melting pot of cultures, Nepal’s magic touches everyone.

Tibet Tibet’s rugged, wind-swept landscape is home to the Potala palace, which appears to grow out of the rocks into the crisp dry air. Lhasa, the capital, is built around the sacred Jokhang temple, where horns, yak-butter lamps, lama chants, bells and devout pilgrims provide a dramatic setting in which to observe the resurgence of the ancient Tibetan Buddhist religion in modern-day Tibet.

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 2 Journey Monday May 16, 2017 Depart USA Tuesday May 17, 2017 Arrive Bangkok (THAILAND) Wednesday May 18, 2017 Bangkok Thursday May 19, 2017 Fly Bangkok – Paro and drive to Thimphu (BHUTAN) Friday May 20, 2017 Thimphu Saturday May 21, 2017 Thimpu – Paro Sunday May 22, 2017 Paro Monday May 23, 2017 Paro – Kathmandu (NEPAL) Tuesday May 24, 2017 Kathmandu Wednesday May 25, 2017 Fly Kathmandu – Lhasa (TIBET) Thursday May 26, 2017 Lhasa Friday May 27, 2017 Lhasa Saturday May 28, 2017 Lhasa Sunday May 29, 2017 Departure

Accommodations Bangkok Anantara Siam Thimphu Khang Residency Paro Zhiwaling Kathmandu Yak & Yeti Lhasa Four Point Sheraton

Meals As per itinerary

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 3 Detailed Itinerary

Tuesday May 17, 2017 Arrive Bangkok, THAILAND Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Bangkok International Airport, you will be met and greeted by our representative and transferred to hotel.

Well known as the City of Angels, Krungthepmahanakorn (Bangkok) is the present and the focal point for Thailand. It was made the capital of Thailand in 1782, by the first monarch of the present Chakri Dynasty. It is a vibrant city, a national treasure house and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic enter with endless choice of sightseeing and entertainment opportunities. In addition to the many temples and historic buildings, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of interesting places to visit is endless. There are numerous canal (klong) networks, the Chaophraya River, giving it the name of “Venice of the East”.

After check-in at hotel, the balance of the day is yours. Overnight: Anantara Siam Hotel

Wednesday May 18, 2017 Bangkok Day free at leisure or enjoy the resort’s facilities. Overnight: Anantara Siam Hotel Meals: Breakfast

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 4 Thursday May 19, 2017 Fly Bangkok – Paro and drive to Thimphu, BHUTAN Early morning you are transferred to the Bangkok airport for your flight to Paro.

Welcome to Bhutan! The Dragon Kingdom of Bhutan is the last of the Buddhist kingdoms that once occupied a vast area of the Himalayas.

Upon arrival in Paro, drive to Thimphu. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery and serene countryside to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Sandwiched in the heart of the Himalayas, Thimphu is a small, charming city, with all the buildings constructed and painted in the traditional Bhutanese style.

Arrive in Thimphu by afternoon. Check-in directly to your hotel. Overnight: Khang Residency Meals: Dinner

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 5 Friday May 20, 2017 Thimphu Today we wind our way through one of Bhutan’s loveliest valleys. We can confidently assert that this is one of the most beautiful drives you will ever experience. Along the way we’ll see intact landscapes, idyllic farmhouses and small monasteries, crowned by crystal clear mountain views. The great fortresses, known as dzongs, are among the most striking examples of Bhutanese architecture. Rising proudly at strategic places - at the entrance to a valley, at the summit of a hill or at the confluence of two rivers - dzongs are built on a grand scale without the help of any drawings and are held together without a single nail. The dzongs symbolize the history and long independence of Britain. Overnight: Khang Residency Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 6 Saturday May 21, 2017 Thimpu – Paro This morning, take a close look today at the forms that continue to flourish in everyday life ‐ , woodcarvings and the traditional art of painting Thangkhas (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls). Explore the folk heritage museum and National Textile Museum before departing for the drive to .

En route, traverse (10,500 ft.) and see one of Bhutan ʹs most breathtaking views – a plethora of colorful rhododendron blossoms and soft green wild herbs and forest trees dot a canvas of alpine snow.

Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, and the fertile valley of Punakha (4,430 feet).

This afternoon drive to Paro, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon.

Later in the day, visit Rinpung Dzong, meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore. Overnight: Zhiwaling Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 7 Sunday May 22, 2017 Paro This morning, your guide leads you on a hike to the enchanting ʺTigerʹs Nest” the Taktsang Monastery viewpoint. Built around a cave where the Guru Rinpoche meditated, this monastery impossibly seems to cling to a cliff of rock 3,000 feet above the valley floor.

The Taktsang Monastery is one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world, containing 13 holy places. Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Lair”, gets its name from the Bhutanese legend. In the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche came to Taktsang in a miraculous manner, flying on the back of a tigress from Khenpajong in the region of Kurteop.

The hike takes about 5 hours roundtrip, and is challenging, but unforgettably thrilling and mystical. (Transport by pony is available on the ascent, if you do not wish to hike. Walking is mandatory on the descent).

Afternoon visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses the National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons & armor, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Overnight: Zhiwaling Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 8 Monday May 23, 2017 Paro – Kathmandu, NEPAL It is said that there is a temple or idol for every soul living in the city, and Kathmandu is a treasure house just waiting to be explored. With its ancient temples, wild looking holymen and fascinating melting pot of Indian and Tibetan cultures, Nepal has a magic that touches everyone. We will fly to Kathmandu in the morning.

This afternoon we will visit the ancient of Boudhanath, one of the largest in the world. It stands on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels and ringed by houses of lamas. It was built by King Manadeva on the advise on the goddess Mani Jogini.

We will also visit the temple of Pashupatinath. It is said that Lord Siva came here because it was a perfect place for a holiday. Worship has been going on here for at least 1500 years and there was a Siva temple here at least as far back as 879 AD. It is one of the most important Siva temples on the sub-continent and many Indians come to visit the popular pilgrimage site. The cremation ground is near the temple and the ashes of persons cremated are sprinkled into the waters of the Bagmati, eventually to be carried to the sacred Ganges River. Overnight: Yak & Yeti Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 9 Tuesday May 24, 2017 Kathmandu Early morning one hour (optional) mountain flights to view the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world including Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth.

Later this morning, depart Kathmandu for Bhaktapur City, one of the three medieval principalities of Kathmandu Valley.

Visit the Durbar Square with Golden Gates, Palace of the 55 Windows, Royal Bath and a number of other temples with intricate woodcarving and fabulous stone works.

This afternoon is free to explore the city on you own. Overnight: Yak & Yeti Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 10 Wednesday May 25, 2017 Fly Kathmandu – Lhasa, TIBET Tibet’s arid landscape is home to the majestic Potala Palace, which appears to grow out of the rocks into the crisp dry air above. Lhasa, the capital, is built around the sacred Jokhang Temple, where yak-butter lamps, lama chants, horns, bells and devout pilgrims provide a dramatic setting to observe close up the resurgence of the ancient Tibetan Buddhist religion in modern day Tibet. A morning flight takes us to Lhasa.

Board a morning flight to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Lhasa was built around the sacred Jokhang Temple, where yak‐butter lamps, lama chants, horns, bells and devout pilgrims provide a dramatic setting to observe close up the resurgence of the ancient Tibetan Buddhist religion in modern day Tibet.

Arrive at your hotel by late afternoon. Remainder of the day is free to relax at your Hotel. Overnight: Four Point Sheraton Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 11 Thursday, Friday May 26 & 27, 2017 Lhasa Today explore the rich cultural history of Lhasa and Tibet.

The old city of Lhasa was built around the Jokhang, which is the most sacred temple in Tibet. It was established in the 7th century, when was first introduced into Tibet and, since its founding, has been considerably enlarged, particularly during the reign of the Great 5th Dalai Lama. Within the Jokhang, there are a series of temples situated on the ground and the upper floors. After the Cultural Revolution, these temples were left in various states of repair. Visit this area full of temples, pilgrims praying and traditional markets. At the main entrance see pilgrims prostrating themselves as they conduct their prayers before continuing on their ritual circuit around the temple. Explore the Barkor Bazaar, with its multitude of stalls selling anything from ceremonial scarves to Chinese thermos flasks.

Drive on a breathtaking ascent to the iconic and lofty Potala Palace, formerly the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. This majestic palace seems to grow out of the rocks into the crisp dry air above. Built in the 17th century, it contains hundreds of rooms, labyrinthine corridors, and lavish decorations provide insight into the glory that was the Tibetan kingdom. Visit the White and Red Palaces, containing the Dalai Lama’s former living quarters, the Great West Hall, and the splendid West Chapel. See the eight gold , which were the tombs of the Dalai Lamas.

Your tour of Lhasa also includes Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Built on the banks of the Kyichu River in 1755, the palace grounds cover more than 100 acres of jewel‐ like parks, immaculate gardens, wild forests, and stately pavilions. The massive palace has 374 rooms. Overnight: Four Point Sheraton Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Saturday May 28, 2017 Lhasa – Yamdrok Tsho Lake Excursion Embark on the drive of a lifetime along the Lhasa‐Kathmandu Southern Highway that runs parallel to the Himalayas. After you cross the Yarlungdzangbo River, the road gradually climbs to Kamba La (15,820 ft.), where you have your first view of brilliant turquoise blue Yamdrok Tso Lake. This is one of the four holiest lakes of Tibet and the home of wrathful deities. Along with the lake, the view in the distance massif of Mt. Nojin Kangtsang (23,586 ft.) can be seen. Explore this beautiful lake and learn about its nature and history before you return to Lhasa by the late afternoon.

Afternoon is at leisure.

A farewell Dinner on the final night in Lhasa will give you a chance to recap the experiences. Overnight: Four Point Sheraton Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday May 29, 2017 Lhasa Departure Today you will take your flight to from there catch your international flight to back home.

Magical Himayalan Kingdoms | 12 TOUR PRICES & OTHER INFORMATION

Trip cost includes round trip international flights (Minimum 10 Pax Travelling) Per Person Twin-Share USD 6,539 Internal Flights Bangkok/Paro - Paro/Kathmandu - Kathmandu/Lhasa - Lhasa/Beijing USD 1,460 Total Trip Cost USD 7,999

Trip cost without international flights (Minimum 10 Pax Travelling) Per Person Twin-Share USD 4,689 Internal Flights Bangkok/Paro - Paro/Kathmandu - Kathmandu/Lhasa - Lhasa/Beijing USD 1,460 Total Trip Cost USD 6,149

Single Occupancy USD 1,380 Mountain Flight ride in Kathmandu for one Hour Extra (Optional) USD 225 per person

Tibet Visa Fee: USD 175 for US Citizens and USD 85 for other Nationals Nepal Visa Fee: USD 25

Includes:  Accommodation on twin sharing basis  All arrival and departure transfers  Local English speaking guide  All sightseeing and excursions  Transportation by coach  Meals as specified in the itinerary  Bhutan visa fee / royalty and taxes  Internal flights: Bangkok – Paro – Kathmandu – Lhasa – Beijing  Entrance fees of the monuments  Accompanying travel manager

Excludes:  Nepal visa - available up on arrival at the airport  Personal expenses  Gratuities  Beverages or any other services, which is not mentioned above  Mountain flight ride in Kathmandu

Worldwide Adventures Magical Himalayan Kingdoms | 13 Terms & Conditions

HOW TO BOOK Complete, sign and return the booking form (attached page 15) with your deposit.

DEPOSIT / FINAL PAYMENT INFORMATION Initial Deposit: US$ 500 (At the time of booking) Second Payment US$ 2000 is due on 30th Oct 2016 Final Payment Due on 10th Feb 2017

Payments are accepted by check made payable to: Worldwide Adventures

Mail to: Worldwide Adventures India Towne Place at Garden State Park 923 Haddonfield Road - Suite 300 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002 USA

OR

Give to: Professor John Quinesso, Jr. Rowan University James Hall - Suite 3068 PH: 609-922-6385 or 856-324-8245 E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellation by You - Cancellation charges will be applied as shown below, calculated from the day written notification is received by Worldwide Adventures. In addition to cancellation fees for tours operated by Worldwide Adventures as shown below, airlines, hotels and other third parties may impose up to 100% cancellation charges.

Prior to 90 days 0% of tour cost (only flight cancellation will be applicable) 89 to 60 days 30% of tour cost 59 to 45 days 50% of tour cost 44 to 31 days 60% of tour cost 30 to 15 days 80% of tour cost Less than 14 days 100% of tour cost

International Flight Cancellation Charges US$ 550

In addition to the above, cancellation charges may apply for additional arrangements booked by Worldwide Adventures, such as air tickets, hotels. If the reason for cancellation is covered by your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Worldwide Adventures Magical Himalayan Kingdoms | 14 Payments and Booking Form

PAYMENTS Checks Made Payable to: Worldwide Adventures India Towne Place at Garden State Park 923 Haddonfield Road - Suite 300 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

**PASSPORT INFORMATION **

Passport #: ...... Nationality: …...... ………..…

Issued At: ...... Issue Date (mm/dd/yy): ......

Passport Name: ...... Expiry Date (mm/dd/yy): ………………………..…………..

Date of Birth: ...... Email: …………………………………………………..…………….. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the expected date of your return home. I do not yet have a passport, but will be applying for one.

In completing this form, I affirm that I am in general good health, capable of performing the required exercise to participate, and that I have not recently been treated for, nor am I aware of, any condition that would jeopardize myself or other members of this tour. I accept as my personal risk the hazards of such participation, and will not hold Worldwide Adventures India or its representatives responsible. I confirm that I am over the age of 18 and hereby release and forever discharge Worldwide Adventures, its officers, directors, servants and agents from any liability whatsoever arising as a result of my participation in this trip, and I declare this release is binding upon me, my heirs, executors and assigns. I agree that this agreement shall be governed in all aspects by, and interpreted in accordance with, the law of TRIVANDRUM, INDIA.

I have read the Terms & Conditions as outlined above. I also understand that the unique nature of this type of travel involves accommodations, transport, safety and medical facilities not found on a conventional vacation.

SIGNATURE: ______DATE: ______

Worldwide Adventures Magical Himalayan Kingdoms | 15