Experience Nepal, Tibet,
Bhutan & India with Endless Knot Journeys!
Endless Knot Journeys based in Madison, WI (USA) specializes in hand-crafted custom tours and adventure holidays in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan & India. Sandeepa Lama Palmer, who was born and raised in Nepal, founded the company in 2014 with the aim of promoting Nepal and the neighboring countries of Bhutan, India and Tibet as holiday destinations to the discerning travelers of the United States. Sandeepa is passionate about her native country's diverse cultures, ancient traditions, and rich spiritual and artistic heritage. She actively shares her passion and inside knowledge about Nepal and the surrounding region with people she meets at Endless Knot, a gift store that she founded in 2011 that offers unique hand-crafted products made in Nepal and India. With the support of Ananya Holidays (www.ananyanepal.com), it's sister concern and ground-handling partner based in Kathmandu, Nepal, Endless Knot Journeys is able to craft and organize group tours and custom holidays that offer unique experiences and exceptional value.
NEPAL
Best time to visit: October - November, February - April (possible to travel throughout the year)
Stunning snowy summits, world heritage sites, timeless traditions, ancient festivals, quaint hill villages, wonderful wildlife and languid lakes, Nepal has something for everyone.
The grandeur of the Himalayas is what draws thousands of visitors to Nepal every year. However, this tiny landlocked country has a lot more to offer than the highest mountains in the world. Nepal is home to 101 ethnic groups and sub-groups that speak more than 90 different languages. Ancient streets, centuries-old monuments and medieval palace squares of Kathmandu valley stand in testament to the country's rich history and cultural and artistic heritage. Traditional villages in the high mountains, hills and valleys not only provide respite from the hectic lifestyle of the cities but also present opportunities for meaningful cultural engagements. Protected and well managed national parks and wildlife reserves are teeming with rare wildlife such as the Bengal Tiger, snow leopard and one-horned rhino and exotic bird species.
Experience the magic of Nepal by embarking on one of our featured tours or adventure holidays. Or let us know your interests and requirements and we will craft a tailor-made travel itinerary that is bound to delight you
Capital: Kathmandu
Area: 147,181 sq kms
Population: 30.4 million
Government: Democratic Republic
Official language: Nepali
Currency: Nepalese Rupees
Religion: 80.6% Hindu, 10.7% Buddhist, 4.2% Muslim, 3.6% Kirat, 0.9% Others
People: More than 101 ethnic groups and 92 spoken languages
Time: GMT + 5 hours 45 minute
Visa: All nationals except for Indians require a visa, which can be obtained in advance or on arrival
TIBET
Tibet is a popular dream destination for travelers and adventure lovers alike. Lying at a height of 4,900 m in the rain shadow of the Himalaya, Tibet offers exceptional trekking opportunities during the summer months. Trekking in the thin air requires excellent acclimatization so it's best not to rush a holiday to Tibet.
Culturally, Tibet is a treasure trove. In Lhasa, the Potala Palace is the landmark sight with its towering white walls and prostrating pilgrims. The Jokhang and surrounding streets of the Barkhor Market form both the spiritual and commercial heart of the old city. Outside of Lhasa, the old towns of Gyantse, Shegar and Shigatse provide a glimpse of life in old Tibet with their monasteries and forts. The ancient capital of Guge – a city of cave dwellings and crumbling palaces – is one of the least visited places in Tibet.
Away from the cultural centres, the landscape of Tibet is its crowning glory. The sacred mountain of Kailash and the towering north face of Everest are two of the most impressive sights attracting both trekkers and pilgrims alike – particularly at the time of the Saga Dawa Festival at Kailash. But it is probably the endless, high-altitude plateau of brown rolling hills, pierced occasionally by enormous peaks, that best characterises Tibet and leaves an indelible impression on all visitors.
BHUTAN
Bhutan, also known as the land of the thunder dragon, is a tiny kingdom tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas. Since time immemorial ascetics, mystics, scholars, philosophers and pilgrims have been drawn to the remote and rugged mountains of Bhutan in their personal search for wisdom, inspiration, solitude and happiness. Visitors will be surprised that the invaluable spiritual and cultural legacy that these seekers left behind is still richly intact and at the degree to which they permeate all strands of modern secular life. From the traditional woven garments to the prayer flags on high mountain slopes, from the architectural environment to the natural environment, from the religious mask dances to folk dances, this heritage is readily evident and offers a unique setting.
Bhutan's climate ranges from tropical in the south, to temperate in the centre of the country, to cold in the north. Mid December to early January can be a beautifully clear and dry time in western Bhutan. Late December through mid February is the period of heaviest snowfall in the higher elevations. The autumn season, late September through November, is usually mild and the sky is at its clearest affording magnificent views of the Himalaya.
INDIA
India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, from bustling urban Delhi to tranquil Keralan backwaters, and from the deserts of Rajasthan to snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Northwest India makes a good starting point with dazzling festivals in Rajasthan, cool colonial hill stations in Himachal Pradesh and some spectacular trekking in Garhwal. In the far north there are breathtaking summer treks in Zanskar and Ladakh, and in northeast India the kingdom of Sikkim offers beautiful mountain walking and a vibrant Buddhist culture. For the truly adventurous there is the little known region of tribal Nagaland to explore, whilst for those wanting a more relaxing experience, the laid back charms of Southern India won’t disappoint.
Aside from the impressive scenic and cultural diversity, India is rightly renowned for its wonderful wildlife. Kaziranga National Park in Assam, close to the mighty Brahmaputra, is the place to see the rare One-horned rhino whilst tigers are the main attraction at Ranthambore. In Ladakh, the Hemis National Park is the largest in India and one of the few places where Snow Leopards may be spotted whilst, at the opposite end of the country, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a wonderful place to see monkeys, elephants and big cats. Exotic birdlife also abounds in India with the reserves at Chattra Sagar and Javai Band lakes in Rajasthan perfect for viewing a dazzling array of birds whilst sipping a sundowner.
NEPAL
Glimpses of Nepal, 10 days
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu. Visit Monkey Temple in the evening.
Day 2: Sightseeing tour visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and the ancient and beautifully crafted Newari city of Bhaktapur.
Day3: Drive to the breathtaking mountain village of Bandipur. Spend the afternoon exploring the mountainside or at leisure. (optional early morning Everest Mountain Flight at supplementary cost).
Day4: Take in the medieval, rustic charm of Bandipur and ride a cable car to visit the local temple of Goddess Manakamana. In the afternoon, take a scenic 3 hr drive to the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara.
Day 5: Enjoy breathtaking views of sunrise over Annapurna Himalayan range from Sarangkot (1,592m/5,223ft). In the afternoon, hike up to Japanese Peace Pagoda and enjoy stunning sunset over Pokhara Valley.
Day 6: Drive to Chitwan National Park (5 hours) through towns, villages, and endless rice fields of the plains. Visit Tharu Village and elephant stable before dinner.
Day 7: Enjoy a full day of jungle activities including an elephant safari, canoe ride and nature walk. Enjoy cultural show featuring local Tharu stick dance.
Day 8: After breakfast drive to Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha Shakyamuni. Visit the Sacred Garden, the Maya Devi Temple, and the Ashoka Pillar. Saffron-robed monks can be seen meditating at the foot of a sacred Bodhi tree, festooned in prayer flags.
Day 9: Fly to Kathmandu. The rest of the day may be spent at leisure or exploring Kathmandu. Visit the Palace Museum to gain insight into the royal massacre, or visit Durbar Square to see the remnants of the old Nepalese kingdom.
Day 10: Transfer to airport for journey back home.
Adventure Holiday Nepal, 7 days
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 2: Take a 3 hr scenic drive to the Last Resort, a beautiful and peaceful resort on a high cliff-top gorge of the Bhotekoshi river. Experience the thrill of your lifetime by taking a bungee jump from a bridge over a 160 m high tropical gorge. Relax in the serene environment of the Last Resort and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
Day 3: Go rafting in rapids of the wild Bhotekoshi river and get a full body workout by paddling the rapids of the Bhotekoshi.
Day 4: We will go on a 6 hr scenic drive to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara, which sits in the lap of the Annapurna mountain range. In the afternoon, you can take a small hike to the Peace Stupa and enjoy beautiful views of the and the majestic Annapurna Range. In the evening, explore the city leisurely by taking a boat ride on the Fewa lake or strolling the shops and cafes of Lakeside main street.
Day 5: Drive to Sarangkot pre-dawn for spectacular view of sunrise over the Himalayas. After breakfast, take off from Sarangkot (5223 ft) for a 30 min one of a lifetime paragliding experience. You will have a breathtaking view of the Fishtail mountain and the majestic Annapurna Range as you hover above the Fewa Lake and the city of Pokhara.
After lunch, depart for a 3 to 4 hr mountain biking trip around the hills of Pokhara and experience culture and heritage of the people along the trail.
Day 6: After breakfast, we will head back to Kathmandu (6 hrs). In the evening, enjoy the sights and sounds of the city on a walking tour of old parts of Kathmandu and the Durbar Square.
Day 7: Transfer from hotel to airport for departure to your home country.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek, 16 days
Itinerary
Day 1: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
Day 2: We will take a scenic 6 hr drive to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara, which sits in the lap of the Annapurna mountain range
Day 3: Trek to Pothana(1,829 m / 6,000 ft)
Day 4: Trek to New Jhinu Danda(1,780 m / 5,839ft). 6½ hours
Day 5: Trek to Sinuwa (2,340m/7,677ft). 4-5 hours mostly uphill
Day 6: Trek to Deurali via Bamboo (3,200m/10,498ft). 7 hours
Day 7: Trek to Machhapuchare Base Camp(3,658m/12,000ft). 3-4 hours
Day 8: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp(4,130m/13,550ft). 3-4 hours
Day 9: Trek to Dovan(2,630m/8,628ft). 6-7 hours
Day 10: Trek to Chomrong (2,170m/7,119ft) 6-7 hours
Day 11: Trek to Tadapani (2,590m/8,497ft). 5-6 hours
Day 12: Trek to Ghorepani(2,750m /9,022ft). 6 hours
Day 13: Climb Poon Hill & Trek to Hille (1,520m/4,987ft) 5-6 hours walk from Ghorepani to Hille
Day 14: Trek to Naya Pul (2½ hours walk)& Drive to Pokhara
Day 15: Drive to Kathmandu
Day 16: Transfer from hotel to airport for departure to your home country
TIBET
Journey to Mt Kailash, 17 days
Itinerary:
Day 1: Upon arrival in Kathmandu you will be met and transferred to hotel. If time permits, you will visit the Monkey Temple followed by trip briefing.
Day 2: Visit World Heritage Sites - Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa - in the morning. Drive to Kodari (4 hrs) near Nepal-China border and stay overnight at a guest house.
Day 3: Experience the rigors of border crossing at immigration check-points of Nepal and China. You will then drive to the traditional Tibetan town of Nyalam ((3,750m/12,303ft). Overnight at hotel.
Day 4: The entire day is free for acclimatization. We will go on short treks in preparation for the Kailash journey
Day 5: Drive to Dongba (8 hrs). The scenery along the way is terrific as the fertile Nepalese valleys give way to arid Tibetan plateau. En-route we will cross the Tong La Pass (4,996m/16,390ft) and pass Paiku-Tso lake & Brahmaputra river.
Day 6: Drive to the holy lake of Mansarovar (7hr). The road follows the Tsang Po River, passes through a number of villages before crossing the Mayum La Pass (5,280m/17,323ft). Circumambulate the sacred lake (2.5 hrs) and enjoy the experience.
Day 7: Most of the day is free for spiritual activities - prayers, hawans and a dip in the holy lake. You can also walk to Langpona Gompa from where you can see the river winding its way towards lake Mansarovar. Drive to Darchen.
Day 8: Drive to Tarboche (8 km) and visit Yamdwar. We will then trek to Diraphuk monastery (5,209m/17,090ft).This is the first day of Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation). We will walk for about 6 -7 hours to the north face of Mt Kailash. Overnight at lodge.
Day 9: Trek to Dzutrul Phuk monastery via Khandro Sanglam pass. The climb is steep as we pass the glacier to the Northeast of Mt Kailash and the Shiwa Tsel (Dakini Charnel Ground). The descent down into the valleys takes us by Kuber Kund.
Day 10: Enjoy a relatively peasant and beautiful trek (8 kms) to finish the parikrama (circumambulation). Drive to Darchen where you will spend the night.
Day 11: Take an excursion to Asthapad from where you will have the closest and the best view of Mt Kailash. It is approx. a 20 minute drive or a trek of 5 hours. Overnight in tent. (Asthapad visit will only take place if “permitted” by the Chinese government)
Day 12: Trek to the Atma Lingam, Sapta Rishi caves & Nandi Parvat. Return back to Asthapad and stay overnight in tent.
Day 13: Trek to Darchen (5 hrs) and stay overnight at lodge.
Day 14: Drive to New Drongba (7 hrs) via Mayum La (5,150m/16,896ft) and Paryang (4,600m/15,092ft) where you will probably have lunch. Cross the Soge La pass and continue the drive beside Tsang Po river. Overnight at guesthouse.
Day 15: Drive to Nyalam (5hrs) passing many Tibetan peaks, the Peku Tso lake, the mighty Lalung La and Thong La passes with great views of Shishgangma, the worlds 13th highest peak.
Day 16: Drive to the border town of Zhangmu, After customs formalities, you will transfer to Nepalese transport and continue your drive alongside the banks of the Sun Koshi River towards Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel.
Day 17: Transfer to airport for your flight back home.