16 Days Bengal and Beyond

About the destination: Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh. It is the principal city of Dhaka District and Dhaka Division. The historic quarter of Dhaka stands on the east bank of the Buriganga River. Modern Dhaka is the center of political, economic and cultural life in Bangladesh. It is a major financial center in South Asia. Dhaka was the 2012 ISESCO Asian Capital of Culture. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • 857 Memorial. • Aparajeya Bangla. A statue dedicated to those who lost their lives in the 1971 Liberation War. • Central Shaheed Minar. A symbol of Bengali nationalism. • Mausoleum of National Leaders. • National Poet's Graveyard. • Baldha Garden. • National Botanical Gardens. • Ramna Green. • Suhrawardi Uddyan.

About the destination: Yangon, formerly Rangoon, was the capital of Myanmar until it was superseded by Naypyidaw in November 2005. Today, with a population of over 5 million people, it remains the largest city and main economic hub of Myanmar. The city is an amalgamation of British, Burmese, Chinese and Indian influences, and is known for its colonial architecture, which although decaying, remains an almost unique example of a 19th-century British colonial capital. The Shwedagon Pagoda or Paya is the single most important religious site in all of Myanmar and is an interesting place for tourists. The Shwedagon captures the essence of both the informal nature as well as the strong ties that signify the relationship that the Burmese have with their Buddhism. There is no other pagoda like it in Burma and there is no other place like the Shwedagon Pagoda in the world. Yangon has been a cosmopolitan city with a polyglot mixture of peoples from its early days and has a friendly and welcoming attitude towards strangers.

About the destination: Discover Paro: A Journey to Bhutan's Cultural Heart Nestled in the verdant valleys of Bhutan, Paro is a destination that promises a harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As you arrive in Paro, the first thing that strikes you is the serene landscape, punctuated by terraced fields, dense pine forests, and snow-capped peaks. The Paro Valley, with its fertile plains and clear rivers, is the perfect introduction to Bhutan’s pristine environment. The tranquility of the surroundings, coupled with the slow pace of life, allows visitors to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the local culture. One of the must-visit landmarks in Paro is the iconic Taktsang Monastery, often referred to as the Tiger's Nest. Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff 3,000 meters above sea level, this 17th-century monastery is a marvel of Bhutanese architecture and spiritual devotion. The hike to Taktsang is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top. Ensure you carry a camera to capture the awe-inspiring vistas and the intricate details of the monastery's design. Paro is also home to the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the ancient Ta Dzong watchtower. The museum offers a fascinating insight into Bhutanese art, history, and culture, with exhibits ranging from traditional thangka paintings to ancient weaponry. Just a short walk away is the Rinpung Dzong, another architectural gem that showcases the brilliance of Bhutanese craftsmanship. This fortress-monastery, with its towering walls and ornate woodwork, plays a central role in the spiritual and administrative life of Paro. To truly experience the essence of Paro, take time to stroll through its charming town center. The streets are lined with traditional Bhutanese houses, shops selling handicrafts, and cozy restaurants offering local delicacies. Engage with the friendly locals, who are always eager to share stories and provide a deeper understanding of their way of life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply in search of peace and tranquility, Paro stands as a gateway to the soul of Bhutan, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

About the destination: Kathmandu is the history-rich capital and largest town of Nepal. Located in one of the most dramatic natural environments possible, the Himalayan Mountains, Kathmandu has a large concentration of culture, art and tradition. Most of the cultural centers in Nepal are concentrated around the Kathmandu valley, a Valley with thousands of years of history. Walking around Katmandu is like strolling through an open air museum, the temples are majestic and the unique Nepali architecture is fascinating. Durbar Square is an excellent depiction of architecture and culture of Nepal. Located heart of Kathmandu, Durbar Square is filled with palaces and temples, including amazing ancient temples like Taleju Temple, a royal palace and the interesting Kumari Palace. Visit Swayambhunath where the Monkey Temple sits high overlooking Kathmandu. Even more impressive is the huge Boudha Stupa in Boudha, one of the most sacred sites for Tibetan Buddhism. The Hindu Temple at Pashupatnath gives a good idea of the Hinduism in Kathmandu. It is here where you will see the huge fires for the cremations on the banks of the Baghmati River. Go to Thamel for restaurants, bars and shops. Nepal’s most cosmopolitan city has lots to offer, and it is also a perfect base to explore the rest of this magical and fascinating country.

About the destination: Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal and the second largest city in India after Mumbai. Abject poverty mix inexplicably with crumbling British Raj-era gems, sprawling gardens and historical colleges. Long known as the cultural capital of India, Kolkata continues to spawn generations of poets, writers, film producers and Nobel Prize winners. The city sprawls along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, a tributary of the Ganges, which divides it from Howrah on the western bank. For travelers, the most relevant parts of Kolkata are south of the Howrah Bridge in the areas around BBD Bagh and Chowringhee. Kolkata is a huge city with a lot to see but some of the main attractions are the Eden Gardens, Fort William, Victoria Memorial, Nakhoda Mosque, the largest mosque in Kolkata, Shobhabajar Rajbari, Parashnath Jain Temple and the Birla Temple, the largest in Kolkata and worth a visit. If Bangalore is the Seattle of India, than Kolkata is the sub-continent’s London. It is an 'in your face' city that shocks and charms the unsuspecting visitor. If your trip only allows for a visit of one or two of India's metropolitan cities, than definitely consider placing Kolkata on your itinerary. Love it or hate it, you definitely won't forget the city on the Hooghly.