Nepal & BhutanMarch 26 - April 6, 2020

BE-Spiritually connected in the Himalayas! Known for Mount Everest and eight of the world’s tallest mountains, Nepal is a kaleidoscope of breathtaking views, natural surroundings and deeply rooted traditions. While Bhutan may be one of the smallest countries in the world, its cultural diversity and richness are profound. It’s a country where the emphasis is placed on Gross National Happiness and preservation of its unique culture are practiced by all. We have an extraordinary journey through the Himalayas waiting for a small group of savvy women travellers.

Kathmandu is like stepping into another world, with close proximity to world-class hiking trails, this diverse and historic city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the narrow streets and local markets then meet some incredible women to hear their stories about the challenges they face. Recharge with a spiritual sunrise, enjoy an interactive experience with the Monks and learn how the locals live in harmony with the elements of nature. Share a meal with a local family and acquaint yourself with the spirituality of the Bhutanese. Immerse yourself in gastronomy with a cooking demonstration. And, complete the tour at “Tiger’s Nest” Monastery, the most sacred place in Bhutan, which is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime.

There’s so much to experience on this exhilarating, spiritual journey through Nepal & Bhutan. We invite you to lace up your sneakers and experience it for yourself.

Included• Private group arrival/departure transfers (based on group air times)• Private transportation as per the itinerary• Superior accommodations throughout:

Kathmandu (2 nights), Pokhara (2 nights), Dulikhel (1 night), Thimphu (2 nights), Punakha (2 nights), Paro (2 nights)

• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner (11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners)• Domestic air Kathmandu - Pokhara (return), Kathmandu - Paro• Sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary• Henna experience• Seven Women Headquarters visit• Boat ride on Phewa Lake• Stamp making at the National Post Office• Visit Institute for Zorig Chusum - Arts & Crafts School• Meditation & yoga program conducted by a Monk• Hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten• Hike to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of fertility and local village• Visits to Ta Dzong & Rinpung Dzong• Cultural dinner and cooking demonstration with local family• Hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)• Bhutan visa fee• Services of a local English speaking guide (one in Nepal & Bhutan)• Services of a Broad Escapes Tour Manager (& 24 hour Emergency Contact )• All applicable taxes and service charges as of booking date

Not Included• International airfare – inquire with us about group space• Passport photos, government fees and Nepal visa (approx. $35 USD)• Vaccinations, luggage handling, incidentals• Driver & local guide gratuities• Additional taxes, fuel surcharges or service charges levied by the

governments or our suppliers

Optional• International group air from Toronto. (We would be pleased to book your

flights to connect with the group flight from Toronto or from any departure gateway)• Manulife Travel Insurance (coverage available for Canadian residents who have a

valid provincial health card - includes emergency medical coverage, cancellation and interruption, limited baggage insurance – see policy for terms and conditions)

Payments• Deposit $700.00 CAD + insurance due at time of booking• 2nd Deposit $1500.00 CAD due July 24, 2019• Balance due December 20, 2019

$7225.00 CADTwin occupancy (Minimum of 10, maximum of 16 travellers)

$1525.00 CAD Single supplement

BEcaptivated

Day 1 – Thursday, March 26 – Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal D

*Independent Arrival in Kathmandu - Upon arrival meet our English speaking assistant who will accompany us on a private group transfer to our hotel. The capital of the ancient mountain kingdom of Nepal, Kathmandu has the air of a medieval city including a labyrinth of narrow streets, wooden temples and beautifully decorated palaces. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore Kathmandu and stretch your legs after a long flight. Join fellow Broad Escapes travellers for a welcome dinner this evening.

Broad Escapes will offer a designated group flight from Toronto. The tour will commence on arrival in Kathmandu & the group transfer will be based on the recommended group arrival time. Private transfers can be arranged (at an additional cost) for those arriving at a different date/time. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.

Overnight at The Inn Patan (or similar) 2 nights

Day 2 – Friday, March 27 – Kathmandu B/L/D

Our Kathmandu city tour begins in Durbar Square with its array of temples, overlooked by the Hanuman Dhoka, the ancient palace of the Nepalese royalty. Visit the residence of the living Goddess with carved wooden balconies and windows believed to have been built from the timbers of a single tree. Afterwards, visit the Swayambhunath, an ancient religious architectural stupa atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. This evening try a Mehandi or Henna experience, a form of body art from Ancient India. Later, walk from the Indra Chowk to Assam Bazar, a local market of Kathmandu.

Day 3 – Saturday, March 28 – Kathmandu – B/L/DFly to Pokhara

Rise early and drive to Nagrkot (30km) for the early morning views of Mt. Everest (subject to weather conditions). Later visit Seven Women Headquarters and meet incredible women who have been empowered by this non-profit social enterprise organization. Listen to their stories and hear how their skills and training have impacted their lives and the local economy. Later transfer to the airport for our flight to Pokhara. The Pokhara Valley is regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Nepal. Pollution free and less crowded, Pokhara has a lot to offer visitors. This afternoon enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside or the many activities this town has to offer.

Overnight at the Fish Tail Lodge (or similar) 2 nights

Day 4 – Sunday, March 29 – Pokhara B/L/D

Early this morning drive to Sarangkot (13km) for sunrise. The highest view point for the sunrise standing at 1592m has breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Afterwards, visit Bindyabasini Temple dedicated to Kali a Hindu goddess and Pokhara’s chosen deity. This temple has great religious significance to the Hindus living in the area of Pokhara and stands charmingly among the incredible backdrop. Visit the Hemja Tibeatan Monastery built by the local Tibetan communities who have been residing in Nepal since they fled Tibet. Here, enjoy an interactive experience with the Monks. Then continue to the Phewa Lake for a private boat tour.

Day 5 – Monday, March 30 – Pokhara – B/L/DFly to Kathmandu - Dulikhel

Today we fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to Dulikhel. Located 30km from Kathmandu, enjoy the superb views of the Himalayan range and the Kathmandu Valley. This afternoon embark on a walk around the Old town and the market of Dulikhel. Our overnight stay emphasizes living in harmony with the elements of nature. Enjoy!

Overnight at the Dwarika’s Resort (or similar) 1 night

Day 6 – Tuesday, March 31 – Dulikhel – Kathmandu – B/L/DThimphu, Bhutan

Transfer to the airport for our flight to Paro. The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular in the Himalayas, offering fascinating views along the Himalayan range. Welcome to Bhutan. Upon arrival transfer to Thimpu (55km/1.5hrs) our home for the next 2 nights. This capital city of Bhutan, with a population of 90,000, is perhaps still the world’s only capital city without a traffic light. Enjoy an exploratory walk around the main street and market area this evening.

Overnight at the Hotel Druk (or similar) 2 nights

Day 7 – Wednesday, April 1 – Thimphu B/L/D

Rise early and engage in meditation and yoga with a Monk at Buddha Point. Continue on a full day tour of Thimphu including visits to the Textile Museum to learn the significance of the national art of weaving, the Institue for Zorig Chusum commonly known as Arts & Crafts School where students study the traditional Bhutanese art skills, the Bhutan Post Office Headquarters where we will partake in a stamp making, the Memorial Choten for insight into Buddhist philosophy and more. Conclude the tour with a visit to Trashichhoedzong, the ‘fortress of the glorious religion’. This center of government and religion was reconstructed in the 1960’s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans.

Day 8 – Thursday, April 2 – Thimphu – Punakha B/L/D

Drive to Punakha (88km, 3hrs) across Do Chula pass (3,080m). Marked by large Bhutanese Chorten and prayer flags this pass offers the most spectacular views of the eastern Himalayas. After checking into the hotel, proceed to the majestic Punakha Dzong for a visit of this historic structure. Punakha Dzong is not only the second oldest and second largest dzong but it is also one of the most majestic structures in the country. Complete the day with an afternoon hike (2hrs roundtrip, easy to moderate, 1300m) through fields of chilies and cabbages to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. This evening is free to relax or wander through the Punakha local market at the banks of the river.

Overnight at the Dhesa Boutique Resort (or similar) 2 nights

Nepal & BhutanMarch 26 - April 6, 2020

Day 9 – Friday, April 3– Punakha B/L/D

Visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery today. Perched high up on a ridge amongst pine trees and overlooking the valley gleams this magnificent structure. The complex houses many beautiful statues and provides an area for the nuns to engage in education, meditation and skills training such as tailoring, embroidery, statue making and thangka painting. Later partake in an afternoon hike (1.5hrs, easy, altitude 1300m) through paddy fields and villages to Chimi Lhakhang, the temple of fertility. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana. A walk through the village will provide rare glimpses into the daily life and lifestyle of the villagers.

Day 10 – Saturday, April 4 – Punakha – Paro B/L/D

Depart for Paro (125km, 4hr) through the dramatic Wang Chhu and Paro Chhu river valleys. Enroute, visit Simtokha Dzong, a place of profound tantric teachings and schools the study of the Dzongkha language. Home to many of Bhutan’s oldest temples and monasteries, Paro will be our home for the next 2 nights. This evening engage in a traditional dinner and cooking demonstration with a prominent local family. Experience local delicacies and gain knowledge of Bhutan’s unique culture, customary values and traditions.

Overnight at the Zhiwa Ling Hotel (or similar) 2 nights

Day 11 – Sunday, April 5 – Paro B/L/D

No tour to Bhutan would be complete without a visit to Takshang Monestery or Tiger’s Nest. Perched 900meters above the Paro valley floor, this site has been recognized as a sacred place and is visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. Lace up your hiking boots for an exhilarating, rewarding and spiritual hike (5hrs, moderate to difficult, altitude 3000m, 8 km return) to this remarkable heritage site (option for those who want to only go half way to view it from the cafeteria). Return to Paro with a sense of accomplishment. Gather with fellow travellers for a farewell dinner to reminisce about the incredible memories shared and experienced along the way.

Overnight at Hotel do Colegio, Ponta Delgada (or similar)– 1 night

Day 12 – Monday, April 6 - Home B

After breakfast bid farewell to Bhutan on a private group transfer to the Paro Airport.

Broad Escapes will offer a designated group flight from Paro to Toronto. The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight departure time. Private transfers can be arranged (at an additional cost) for those departing at a different date/time. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.

B - Breakfast / L- Lunch / D - Dinner denote meals included in tour cost

Please note that a moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy the various activities of this tour. Trip activities include hiking and walking, sometimes on uneven ground and at elevations of a maximum of 3100m above sea level. As a courtesy to fellow travellers all Broad Escapes tours are considered non-smoking in that smoking will not be permitted during group activities or on board the bus.

Travel times are approximate and based on averages. Opening/Closing times of some monuments and sites in the itinerary are subject to change and may be closed on government holidays.

**While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the tour. Due to traffic or other circumstances beyond our control, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations. Broad Escapes reserve the right to change the itinerary when deemed necessary.**

TERMS & CONDITIONS Reservations: To reserve space on this tour, contact your Ellison Travel & Tours Travel Consultant Deposits & Payments: A deposit is due at the time of booking. The amount of the deposit varies according to the tour booked. Final payment depending on the tour is due 60 to 120 days prior to departure. Both deposits and final payments are non-refundable at time of payment unless covered by insurance. Forms of Payment: Ellison Travel & Tours will accept payment in the form of cheque, Visa or Mastercard. Cheques must be made payable to Ellison Travel & Tours. If the credit card sale is declined, the customer will be informed immediately, and payment will be considered not received. Verbal authorization of the use of your credit card commits you to your reservation whether or not you have signed a credit card draft. Refunds will be processed in the form they were received. Goods & Services Tax: The Canadian Government's G.S.T. and/or H.S.T. may apply to the cost of your tour. Your vacation consultant will advise of the additional G.S.T./H.S.T. charges, if any, that apply to the cost of your tour. Ellison Travel & Tours reserves the right to pass any Government changes to the tax structure on to the consumer. Price Guarantee: Once the deposit is paid, the tour cost is guaranteed. Prices are however subject to change to cover any unexpected costs over which Ellison Travel & Tours has no control, such as fuel surcharges, government taxes and country visas. In the event of a surcharge tour members and/or vacation consultants will be advised of any surcharge on their tour. If a rate increase of more than 7% is necessary, clients may cancel with no penalties. No surcharges will be added within 30 days prior to departure. Insurance: Ellison Travel & Tours strongly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, and Comprehensive Assistance, Health Coverage, Individual Accident Coverage, and Baggage and Personal Effects Insurance. Details are available from your travel agent. Proof of Citizenship: Canadian Citizens are asked to carry a passport for tours to the United States. For international travel a valid passport is required. Citizens of other countries or landed immigrants should check with their travel agent for requirements for travel outside Canada. Passengers must have valid passports for travel abroad and visas for some countries. Ellison Travel & Tours does not accept responsibility for passengers who do not meet correct visa and passport requirements. Currency: All prices are shown in Canadian Dollars. Baggage: Maximum baggage allowance on motoroach tours is one large suitcase per person. All hand luggage must be carried personally aboard the motorcoach or aircraft. The Tour Manager and Coach Driver supervise the transfer of luggage to and from the motorcoach and every effort is made to handle luggage as carefully as possible. Ellison Travel & Tours cannot assume liability for loss, theft or damage due to breakage, fire, water, etc. Accommodation: All hotels listed in itineraries have been confirmed at the time of printing and are subject to change. On most tours, TWIN refers to two persons sharing one room with two beds; however, in some areas, only one double bed may be available, so please specify at time of booking if you wish two separate beds. TRIPLE or QUAD usually refers to three or four persons sharing one room with two double beds, all with private bath. Please keep in mind that in some areas local customs may mean that there is a change in the type of accommodation provided. Items not included: Items of personal nature such as laundry, telephone charges and drinks with meals other than noted in the tour Inclusions. Responsibility: Ellison Travel & Tours acts solely as organizer of the tours outlined herein and is responsible for making all reservations and charting the routes as outlined but it is expressly understood and agreed between the tour organizer and the passengers that Ellison Travel & Tours or its agents shall not be held responsible for: a) non-performance on the part of any hotel or accommodation for any act or omission that is not directly attributed to the neglect of the tour organizer; b) any delays, misconnections, loss, damage or injury to persons or property or for mechanical defects or failure, however caused or for any substitution of hotels or carrier equipment beyond the control of the tour operator, or for any additional expenses occasioned thereby; c) any inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset, disappointment, distress or frustration whether physical or mental however caused, except where caused directly by the tour operator; d) any additional costs incurred or any ancillary loss sustained as a result of cancellations or delays of tours caused by inclement weather conditions, acts of God, or any other event, which result in one or more persons being unable to continue or complete the tour through no direct fault of the tour organizer. The tour organizer reserves the right to make any changes before or during the tour for the comfort and enjoyment of the passengers and it is agreed and understood that any increase in costs occasioned by such change shall be paid by the passengers or any decrease in costs occasioned by the change shall be refunded to the passenger. Force Majeure: Except where otherwise expressly stated in these conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any injury, damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of “force Majeure”. In these conditions, “force Majeure” means any event which Ellison Travel & Tours or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, disease, fire and all similar events outside our control. Promotional Photography: Ellison Travel & Tours reserves the right to take photographs during the operation of any tour and to use them for promotional purposes. By booking travel with Ellison Travel & Tours, tour members agree to allow their images to be used in such photographs. Tour members who prefer that their images not be used are asked to identify themselves to their travel planner or tour leader at the beginning of their tour.

All tour itineraries are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. Tour managers are subject to substitution where deemed necessary. Ellison Travel & Tours shall have no responsibilities beyond their refund of all monies paid by the passenger which is deemed to constitute full settlement. The tour organizer reserves the right to decline any person as a member of the tour at any time before or during the tour should such person's presence be considered detrimental to the interest, comfort and enjoyment of the other tour members. Persons leaving the tour during operation will not receive a refund of unused services. Ellison Travel & Tours, its agents and all passengers agree that conditions set out herein are part of the terms between the passenger and the tour organizer. Acceptance of the ticket for the tour or any deposit given to the tour organizer represents acceptance by the passenger of all the aforementioned conditions.