Excursion Overland experience himalayan odyssey - nepal & bhutan tour at Phuket
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
07MIDHKT-A Himalayan Odyssey - Nepal & Bhutan
Departure: Friday, April 3, 2026 from Phuket at approx. 2pm
Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights
Re-join ship: Friday, April 10, 2026 in Colombo at approx. 11:30am
Reserve: Minimum of 90 days prior to sailing
IMPORTANT NOTE
This Silver Shore Overland Experience requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.
Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.
All Overland Experience fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Overland Experiences are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Overland Experiences may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.
VISA INFORMATION:
Visa is mandatory for all guests entering India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.
For India: Guests can obtain an e-visa before arrival, which allows entry through 30 designated airports. The e-visa is available for most nationalities and can be applied online. To apply and for further details, visit the Indian e-visa website.
For Nepal: Guests are required to have a visa to enter Nepal. It can be obtained on arrival for most nationalities however, it is recommended to acquire the visa before arrival. For the most up-to-date information, check with the local embassy or relevant government websites like Nepal e-visa website.
For Bhutan: Visas are required for all travelers and will be arranged by the tour operator. To obtain the visa, travellers must share a scanned copy of their passport and a passport-size photo.
For Sri Lanka: Guests are required to have a visa to enter Sri Lanka. It can be obtained on arrival for most nationalities however, it is recommended to acquire the visa before arrival. For the most up-to-date information, check with the local embassy or relevant government websites like Sri Lankan e-visa website.
Please bring one passport photo with you required for the Bhutan Visa.
LOCAL CURRENCY:
India:
The local currency is the Indian Rupee; however, US Dollars, Euros and British Pounds are well-accepted by most vendors. Local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels.
Bhutan:
The national currency in Bhutan is the Ngultrum (Nu) and cash is the most widely accepted throughout the Kingdom. Prices are usually quoted in Ngultrum although US dollars are widely accepted and changed. Guests are recommended to carry cash in currency as limited ATM access is available (only with credit cards currently and not always available). However, most of the antique/textile shops around Thimphu and Paro take VISA and a few take American Express. Ngultrum can be reconverted if changed from Authorized Money Exchanger. At Amankora, VISA, MasterCard and American Express are accepted and currency exchange to Bhutanese Nu is available using the following currencies - US Dollar, Pound Sterling & Euro. Cash advances on credit cards are not available at Amankora.
Nepal:
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee; however, Indian Rupees (INR), Euros and US Dollars are well-accepted by most vendors. Local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels (there is no shopping stop planned during the program).
Sri Lanka:
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee; however, Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are well-accepted by most vendors. Local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels.
LUGGAGE:
There baggage restrictions are as follows: hand baggage gross weight is limited to 5 Kg (11 lb), and size is limited to 23*36*56 cm. One checked bag must be less than 20 kg (44 lbs).
FULL DESCRIPTION
DAY ONE - Friday, April 3, 2026 - Phuket / Delhi
After lunch onboard the Silver Dawn, bid farewell to the ship in Phuket and head to the airport for your evening flight to Delhi (approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes). Meal will be served in-flight.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to The Oberoi Gurgaon, near Delhi Airport.
Overnight accommodation at The Oberoi, Gurgaon.
DAY TWO - Saturday, April 4, 2026 Delhi/ Kathmandu
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a short flight to Kathmandu (approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes), A light meal will be served onboard.
Welcome to Nepal, the country of Mount Everest, situated between India and Tibet. The rich cultural and artistic heritage of Nepal is synthesized in Kathmandu, the capital, which lies in a circular valley surrounded by a crown of forest-covered hills, south of the Great Himalayas at an altitude of 1,500 meters. Successive dynasties have left their mark in the stupendous palaces and temples, sculptures, and carvings found throughout the valley.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to the architecturally resplendent Dwarika’s Hotel. Much of the hotel’s collection of woodwork dates back to a golden period of artistic creation in Nepal’s history, ranging from the 12th–18th centuries AD, preserving a cultural legacy that has defined Kathmandu.
After checking in at Dwarika's Hotel, unwind with a delightful high tea experience, savoring local flavors and refreshing treats. Take some leisure time to relax and recharge, exploring the hotel's exquisite surroundings or simply enjoying the tranquility of your luxurious accommodations.
This evening, you will visit Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas of its kind in the world. Built on an octagonal base inset with prayer wheels, it stands with four pairs of eyes in the four cardinal directions, keeping watch for righteous behavior and human prosperity. Observing the devotees offer prayers and perform circumambulation of the stupa is a special sight to behold.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepalese dinner at the hotel, savouring flavors influenced by India, Tibet, and China.
Dinner and overnight accommodation at Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu.
DAY THREE - Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Kathmandu
Following breakfast at the hotel , start your day with a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Bhaktapur, the "City of Devotees." Shaped like a conch shell, this World Heritage Site was founded in the 9th century. Visit its Durbar Square, with an array of temples and the Palace of 55 Windows.
Return to the hotel for lunch.
After lunch, venture to Swayambhunath, one of Kathmandu's most revered landmarks – a majestic 2,000-year-old Buddhist stupa perched on a hilltop. As you approach, spin the prayer wheels and make a wish, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of devotion. Marvel at the shimmering golden spire and the all-seeing eyes of Lord Buddha, symbolizing wisdom and compassion. The panoramic views of the valley add to the stupa's breathtaking allure.
Dinner and overnight accommodation at Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu.
DAY FOUR - Monday, April 6, 2026 – Kathmandu/ Paro
After an early morning breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, which will take approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. A snack will be served on board.
The next leg of your adventure sees you embark on an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s best-kept secrets: mystical Bhutan, also known as The Land of the Thunder Dragon. A tiny, landlocked Himalayan kingdom bordered by the nations of India and China, Bhutan in many ways remains within a time warp. An enigmatic and deeply spiritual land, here is a wondrous place where traditions thrive untouched by the modern world; where fact and legend combine seamlessly; where celebrating the new doesn’t mean forsaking the old. Most telling of all, it is perhaps the only nation in the world that measures its own progress by a unique index called Gross National Happiness.
You descend into Paro valley. Located at an altitude of 7,000 feet, the beautiful valley of Paro is rich in culture, scenic beauty, and legends. It is also one of the most fertile valleys in the kingdom and produces a majority of the famous Bhutanese red rice. Continue by road to Thimphu, with an en route stop for spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
Upon arrival at Paro airport, an airport assistant will take you to the lounge and process the necessary final visa formalities and customs clearance for your baggage. All foreign nationals require a visa for Bhutan and Silversea will apply for this visa several weeks before your departure.
Your home in Thimphu will be the luxurious Amankora. Combining the Sanskrit word for ‘peace’ with kora or ‘circular pilgrimage’ in Dzongkha, the Bhutanese language, Amankora is a series of lodges across the central and western valleys of Bhutan, making it one of the most remote and pristine environments on earth. Amankora Thimphu is located high up in a blue-pine forest of the Motithang area.
After check-in lunch will be served at the hotel restaurant followed by some time to refresh and unpack.
Spend this evening strolling through the colorful and bustling crafts bazaar as you browse through some of Bhutan's fine traditional arts.
Dinner and overnight accommodation at Amankora Hotel, Thimphu.
DAY FIVE - Tuesday, April 7, 2026 – Thimphu
After a leisurely breakfast, commence your morning touring with a visit to Memorial Chorten, built in 1974. It is a revered monument dedicated to the memory of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Known as the “heart of Bhutan’s spiritual life,” the chorten’s distinctive white structure and golden spires are surrounded by prayer wheels and vibrant paintings, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and devotion. The tour will then continue with a visit to Tashichho Dzong. Built in the 17th century, this majestic fortress-monastery is home to the throne room of the King of Bhutan and the central monastic body.
Next visit Motithang Takin Preserve, perched on a hilltop, for Bhutan's best panoramic view of the entire valley. Originally built to support Bhutan's national broadcasting service, the tower has become a popular spot to admire breathtaking vistas of Thimphu’s landscape, with the city’s colorful buildings and surrounding green hills. It’s an ideal vantage point for capturing the beauty of Bhutan's capital in all its serenity.
Return to hotel for lunch.
Post lunch, visit Changangkha Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered monasteries. This sacred site is dedicated to the protective deity of Bhutan, Avalokiteshvara. It is also a popular place for families to bring their newborns for blessings.
Return to your hotel where dinner is served before you retire for the evening.
Dinner and overnight accommodation at Amankora Hotel, Thimphu.
DAY SIX – Wednesday, April 8, 2026 – Thimphu/ Paro
After breakfast, embark on a 1-hour and 30-minute drive to Paro, with a rest stop en route.
Your first stop is Ta Dzong, the one-time watchtower built to defend Rinpung Dzong during the inter-valley wars of the 17th century. Since 1967, Ta Dzong has served as the National Museum of the country. It holds a fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangka paintings, and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps.
The Kyichu Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the kingdom, dating back to the 7th century. The Lhakhang complex is composed of two temples. The first temple was built by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo, in the 7th century. In 1968, H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother of Bhutan, built the second temple in the original pattern. Continue to visit Paro Dzong, also known as the Rinpung Dzong. Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan, the Dzong houses the monastic body of Paro and the office of the district administrative head of Paro. A walk across the traditional bridge approaching the Dzong offers a good view of the Dzong as well as life around it.
Your lunch awaits you near the base of Bhutan’s sacred Taktshang monastery, next to Pa Chu River.
After a hearty meal, drive to the hotel and check in.
Your evening is at leisure to reflect on a day filled with culture, spirituality, and delicious cuisine.
Dinner and overnight accommodation at Amankora Lodge, Paro
DAY SEVEN – Thursday, April 9, 2026 – Paro/ Delhi/ Colombo
Your journey through this mystical land concludes as you descend from the Himalayan mountains and make your way to the Indian Ocean. This morning, you will fly to Delhi—a flight of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Upon arrival and completion of immigration formalities, relax in the comfort of the airport lounge, where you can enjoy the assortment of food and beverages while reminiscing about your unforgettable adventure.
Prepare for the final leg of your journey as you board your onward flight to Colombo, which takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. Meal will be served in-flight.
Upon arrival in Colombo, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Dinner and Overnight accommodation at Taj Samudra, Colombo.
DAY EIGHT – Friday, April 10, 2026 – Colombo
After a leisurely breakfast, proceed to the pier with an en-route panoramic tour of the city. Later, join the awaiting Silver Dawn.
Please note: This Mid-Voyage Overland Experience requires an extensive amount of walking and climbing of many steps at most sites. Altitude sickness may be a problem for guests suffering from palpitations, shortness of breath or severe headaches. This program is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilize a wheelchair. Comfortable shoes and dressing in layers is recommended. Due to a wide range of temperature (approx. 27-29c during the day/18c at night / 80-84F days, 65F nights) and climate conditions, it is recommended to bring appropriate clothing for protection against the changing conditions. Shorts, hats, sleeveless blouses are not permitted to wear in the monasteries. Dress code throughout the trip is modest casual with sturdy walking shoes. It is recommended to leave jewelry and valuables on board. The order of the itinerary may be amended due to flight schedule changes or other unforeseen factors. In case of flight changes, the tour sequence may be reversed or amended. Remember to bring your camera. There are baggage restrictions as follows: hand baggage gross weight is limited to 5 kg (11 lb.) and size is limited to 23*36*56 cm. One checked bag must be less than 20 kg (44 pounds). Guests must be aware that Bhutan's infrastructure is still very limited and touring in the country requires some 'roughing it'. As travel within the Kingdom needs to be flexible, your understanding and a sense of adventure is necessary. This description is a general overview of the programme only and changes may be made if local conditions require.
Thimpu is at an elevation of 7,656 ft (2,334 m), therefore guests should be prepared for the effects that may result from the altitude.
Kathmandu is located at an altitude of approximately 4500 feet (about 1,371 metres), an altitude not too high to cause any issues.
Programme Includes:
- One-night stay at The Oberoi, Gurgaon (Luxury Rooms)
- Two-night stay at Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu (Heritage Deluxe Rooms)
- Two-night stay at Amankora, Thimphu (Luxury Suites)
- One-Night stay at Amankora Lodge, Paro (Luxury Suites)
- One-Night stay at Taj Samudra, Colombo (Deluxe City View Rooms )
- Seven breakfasts, four lunches (plus 2 in-flight), five dinners (plus 2 in-flight) with drinks included. . (Lunch and dinner at restaurants include a choice of two local beers, soft drinks, and bottled water; beverage at dinner also includes house wine)
- Flights (Economy Class) - Phuket / Delhi, Delhi/Kathmandu, Kathmandu/Paro, Paro/Delhi, Delhi/Colombo. At an additional charge, an upgrade to First or Business Class may be requested, subject to availability. Requests must be submitted at the time of booking this programme. Each flight is quoted separately and is non-refundable once confirmed.
- Visa for Bhutan
- All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary
Not Included:
Any meals and drinks not specified above, charges incurred by the airlines for excess or overweight luggage, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation and/or medical insurance and other personal items, visa fees for countries other than Bhutan.
