Compare Bhutan Cultural Journey by World Expeditions vs The Best of Israel and Egypt Tour - 15 Days by Noah Tours

Day 1 Join Paro (2200m)

After clearing customs and immigration in Paro, you'll be met by our group leader. There's time to freshen up and have lunch before heading out to hike to Zuri Dzong (2,600m). This scenic small hike to the Dzong will serve as an acclimitization walk as offer a glimpse into the beautiful landscapes of Bhutan. After the hike, we check into the hotel for a trip briefing and a welcome dinner. Overnight: Hotel Drukchen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 2 Drive to Haa Valley (70km; 3hrs)

After breakfast we drive towards the Haa valley via Chele La Pass, the highest motorable road in Bhutan. Before making it to Chelela, we visit Kila Gompa Nunnery, reputedly the oldest nunnery in Bhutan consisting of a series of buildings pressed against the cliffs. Around 50 nuns pursue higher Buddhist college studies here. We then embark on a scenic 1.5-2hr hike to Chele La, passing serene forests, chortens and fluttering prayer flags. Our transport will pick us up from the pass and transfer us to the below valley of Haa. Arriving at Haa, we visist Lhakhang Karpo & Nakpo, established in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo in his missiong to build 108 temples in one day to pin down the giant ogress who was obstructing against the spread of Buddhism in the Himalayan region. Lhakhang Karpo has been renovated recently and also hosts the annual Haa Tshechu. A short distance away is Lhakhang Nakpo, where it is believed a hidden lake is below the shrine. There is an opportunity to stroll down the small town of Haa and its one-street town. We check into our heritage lodge and its traditional architecture. Try the hot stone baths that are renowned in Bhutan. Overnight: Soednam Zingkha Heritage Lodge or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 3 Drive to Gangtey (6hrs)

After breakfast we drive to Gangtey (approx. 6 hrs drive), which is a wide and beautiful valley the open grassland and thickets of dwarf bamboo, designated as conservation zone within the Jigme Singye Wangchuk National. It is a natural habitat for wildlife, including nesting grounds for endangered black-necked cranes that migrate from Central Asia in the winter (late October and stay till March). We visit the Crane Centre created to provide information on this elusive species. Overnight: Hotel Dewachen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 4 Explore Gangtey

After breakfast at leisure, drive up to visit the Gangtey Monastery on a forested hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha valley. Black neck cranes circle this monastery before landing in the valley and taking off for Tibet in February end for 110 km non-stop journey. From this monastery, we embark on a hike (approx 2hrs) starting by the Mani stone wall, through pine and bamboo forests and ends in Khewa Lhakhang. Views over the Phobhikha Valley and wetlands are endless and breathtaking. Overnight: Hotel Dewachen or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 5 Drive to Bumthang (68km, 4-5hrs)

Today we cross the Pele La pass (3,420m) on the Black Mountain range towards Trongsa. Enroute we pass the beautiful 18th century Chendebji Chorten, erected to subdue harmful, anti-religious demons. Upon arriving at Trongsa, the ancestral home of Bhutan's ruling dynasty. After lunch we visit the Ta Dzong Museum that houses a rare collection of historical artifacts belonging to the Royal Family. We continue to Bumthang, the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and stop at Zungney village mid way. Bhutan is well known for their bright coloured wooled fabrics known as Yathra and we will visit a factory where ladies weave these vibrant fabrics in different patterns and shapes. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similiar

meals : B,L,D

Day 6 Explore Bumthang

Legend has it that throughout the Buddhist Himalayas, valleys hidden from the outside world exist. Sheltered and protected, together these regions could become the last bastions of traditional Tibetan Buddhism. Shangri-La in James Hilton's Lost Horizons is based on this very idea. There remain few places more suited than Bumthang, Bhutan's spiritual heartland, to stand as symbols of such ideals. We will be dropped off at Jambay Lhakhang, from where we still start our sightseeing tour on foot. Jambay Lhakhang was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, on the same day as the Kyichu temple in Paro. This temple has been repaired and rebuilt several times of the year and is of significance to Buddhist tales. On our hike, we also visit Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang and the Kenchosum Lhakhang - all traditional temples that have been preserved and restored. We end the day with a visit to the Swiss Cheese Factory. Taste the local cheese and try Panda beer, produced by the Swiss Brewery. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 7 Bumthang - Tang Valley

Tang is the most remote of Bumthang's valleys with not as much agriculture as the valley below, although in places where the soil is fertile and deep the Arcadian scenes are picture perfect. Terton Pema Lingpa the famous saint responsible for discovering many treasures as prophesized by Guru Rimpoche was born in this valley. The people of this valley raise sheep and at higher elevation, yaks. We visit the Ogyencholing Museum that was restored in the 19th Century. This museum offers a glimpse into history with exhibits that capture the ambiance and lifestyle of the former Governor. In the afternoon we start a hike on the ancient trails of local merchants and traders. We cross Baetely La (pass) at 2900m and end at the famous Kharchu Dratsang where our car will drive us to the hotel. Overnight: Rinchenling Lodge or similiar

meals : B,L,D

Day 8 To Punakha (6hrs)

Today we will head to the warmer valley of Punakha. Visit the village of Lobesa where a short walk ends at Chimi Lhakhang, the auspicious fertility monastery built in 1499. We will also visit the impressive Punakha Dzong - a fortress monastery which acts as the winter residence of the monastic order’s head, with numerous rooms and grand courtyards to be explored. Overnight: Meri Puensum Resort or similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 9 Drive to Thimphu

After breakfast we commence the drive towards Thimphu, the nation's capital. Thimphu is the largest city with a population of 1.2m and also without traffic lights! It is home to the Government, royal family and has an interesting mix of Himalayan and western influence. Later in the afternoon, we visit the tallest sitting statue of Buddha Dodenma (52m). This statue fulfills an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th Century A.D of emanating an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world. We also visit the Jungshi paper making factory where you can observe the traditional process of producing hand made paper passed down through generations. This type of paper was originally used by monasteries for manuscript books and writing prayer books. This factory continues to preserve and promote this ancient tradition.

meals : B,L,D

Day 10 Morning hike to Cheri Monastery

This morning, we will drive for 45 minutes to the start of the hike to Cheri Monastery (about 2hrs walk return). This monastery was established in 1620 and is now a major centre for the Drukapy Kagyud sect of Buddhism, the state religion. This significant site serves a monastic school for the study of Buddhist philosophy, metaphysics, mathematics, poetry and other Buddhist studies. After a riverside lunch, we return to town (45 minutes) to visit National Institute for Zorig Chusum (painting school), where students are taught the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. We conclude the day by visiting the Royal Textile Academy which displays the significance of textile weaving as an important component of Bhutanese culture and tradition.

meals : B,L,D

Day 11 Drive to Paro

After a morning of exploring the town, we drive to Paro. In the evening head out to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a contemporary of Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang. Legend says that a giant demoness lays across the whole area of Tibet and the Himalayas and was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. So in order to control her, King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet is believed to have built 108 temples which are places on all points of her body. Kichu Lhakhang was one of the 108 monasteries (pinning her left sole of the feet). Overnight: Hotel Drukchen to similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 12 In Paro, visit Tigers Nest Monastery

We drive to the foot of the Taktsang Monastery - the famous Tigers Nest Monastery (3120m) said to have been one of the divine resting places of the Guru Ringpoche. This Monastery was blessed and sanctified as one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites. It hangs on a cliff and stands above a beautiful forest of blue pine and rhododendrons at 10,000 ft. Today Paro Taktsang is the most sacred site for pilgrimage for Buddhists around the world and a special hiking place. The main street, only built in 1985, is lined with colorfully painted wooden shop fronts and restaurants and handicrafts for souvenirs. Paro remains one of the best Bhutanese towns to explore on foot and is worth an hour or two's stroll at the end of a day of sightseeing. Overnight: Hotel Drukchen to similar

meals : B,L,D

Day 13 Trip concludes

After breakfast our trip concludes with a transfer to the airport for onward arrangements.

meals : B

Day 1: Arrival

Arrival to Tel Aviv International Airport. A Noah Tours representative will meet you after passport control and accompany you to your transfer to your hotel.

Day 2: Jaffa - Caesarea - Haifa - Nazareth - Cana - Galilee

After breakfast drive through Jaffa, an ancient port city and the oldest part of Tel Aviv. Continue on to the ancient city of Caesarea that was built by King Herod the Great while driving along the beautiful Mediterranean coast. We will then proceed to Haifa, passing by Mt. Carmel to see the famous Bahai Gardens. From Haifa, we will drive to Nazareth and the Church of Annunciation. Drive to Cana, where the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine took place and visit the “Wedding Church”.  End the day with an overnight in Tiberias/Galilee Sea.

Day: 3 Galilee - Mt. Beatitudes - Capernaum - Tabgha - Golan Heights

Start the day with an exciting boat ride on the Galilee Sea. Continue to see the “Jesus Boat”, the ancient boat found sunk in the Sea of Galilee from the time of Jesus. Ascend up to Mt. Beatitudes, where Jesus gave the “Sermon on the Mount”.  Continue the day in Capernaum, known as “The Town of Jesus”, visit the synagogue and Peter’s house. Take a lunch break with a delicious St. Peters fish lunch. Next, we will visit Tabgha, the place where the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes took place. You will also have the amazing opportunity to see the famous mosaic under the alter of the ancient church of Tabgha. Proceed to the Golan Heights and have an overview from above. End the day at your hotel in the Galilee Sea for your overnight.

Day 4: Jordan River - Qumran - Masada - Dead Sea

Begin the morning driving along the Jordan River to Yardenit Baptismal Site. Visit Qumran and see the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Travel on to Masada where you will take a cable car up to the fortress. The history of the famous Jewish fortification will unfold before your eyes; the palaces built by King Herod, the synagogue and bathhouses used by the Jews. Descend Masada by cable car and drive to the Dead Sea for some relaxation and a dip in the water. Overnight at a Dead Sea hotel and spa where you will be able to take advantage of the spa facilities.

Day 5: Dead Sea - Mt. of Olives - Bethlehem

Take advantage of some extra sleep or an early spa treatment, since check out isn’t until 11:00 AM. Go up to the Mt. of Olives, a cemetery that once was covered in olive groves, where you will have a magnificent panoramic view of Jerusalem. Depart for Bethlehem to see the Church of Nativity located at Manger Square. Overview of the Judean Desert and Shepherd's Field. Finish the day back in Jerusalem for your overnight.

Day 6: Jerusalem (New City) - Mahane Yehuda Market

The morning will begin with a visit to Israel’s official memorial to the Holocaust, Yad VaShem, located on Mt. Herzl. Drive past The Knesset and the Israeli Supreme Court, on your way to the Israel Museum, Israel’s national museum, where you will see the Dead Sea Scrolls as well as a model of the Second Temple. Continue the day with an exciting tour of the Mahane Yehuda Marketplace (Shuk) and experience life as an Israeli. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 7: Jerusalem (Old City) - Tel Aviv

Today will begin with a tour of the Garden of Gethsemane, the place where Jesus prayed and his disciples slept the night before his crucifixion. Make your way to Mt. Zion where you will visit David’s Tomb and the site of the Last Supper, also known as the “Upper Room”. We continue to the Christian Quarter where you will enter the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, where Jesus was crucified. From there, walk where Jesus walked and make your way down Via Dolorosa (Stations of the Cross). The day will continue with a trip to The Cardo, what used to be a main street in the Old City during the time when Judea was under Roman rule. Go down to the Western Wall and spend some time in reflection and/or prayer. End the day with an overnight in Tel Aviv.

Day 8: Arrival to Cairo

Transfer to Tel Aviv airport for a flight to Egypt. Upon arrival at Cairo Airport, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel for an overnight.

Day 9: Transfer to Luxor

After breakfast flight to Luxor and transfer to your Nile Cruise. In the afternoon visit the temple complexes at Karnak and Luxor. A vast open air museum of ruined temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings, notably the Great Temple of Amen. Dinner and overnight on cruise boat.

Day 10: Luxor - Esna - Edfu

Immediately opposite Luxor, across the River Nile, lie the monuments, temples and tombs of the Theban Necropolis, which includes the Valley of the Kings and Queens. The archeological remains of Thebes offer a striking testimony to Egyptian civilization at its height. Among others we shall view the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a famous female Pharaoh who during her 22 year long reign became known for her extensive expeditions and fostering of trade relations. From Luxor we sail to Esna. Two barrage bridges straddle the Nile at this point: one built by the British in 1906, and the "Electricity Bridge" built in the 1990s. If time permits we will visit the temple of Esna and the market of Esna. Our boat will negotiate its way through the lock system and sail on the Nile to Edfu for overnight.

Day 11: Edfu - Kom Ombo

Edfu is known for the major Ptolemaic temple, built between 237 BCE and 57 BCE. The Temple of Horus also known as Apollonopolis Magna, after the chief god Horus-Apollo, is the second largest temple in Egypt after Karnak and one of the best preserved. The inscriptions on its walls provide important information on language, myth, and religion during the Greco-Roman period in ancient Egypt. We continue our sail on the Nile to the town of Kom Ombo to visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual double temple built during the Ptolemaic dynasty. The building is unique because everything is perfectly symmetrical along the main axis and there were courts, halls, sanctuaries and rooms duplicated for two sets of gods. The southern half of the temple was dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, god of fertility and creator of the world. The northern part of the temple was dedicated to the falcon god Horus the Elder. A few of the three-hundred crocodile mummies discovered in the vicinity are displayed inside the temple. Sail on the Nile to Aswan for overnight.

Day 12: Aswan - Cairo

After breakfast, disembark and at leisure in Aswan before flying to Cairo for your overnight.

Optional: Abu Simble Tour to the preserved Great Temple of Abu Simbel - rescued by UNESCO from the rising waters of the Dam. Abu Simbel Great Temple was preserved by relocating 22 monuments and architectural complexes to the shores of Lake Nasser. Other monuments were relocated to countries that helped with the rescue works.

Day 13: Cairo - Memphis - Sakkara - The Great Pyramids of Giza

We begin our day with a tour of the ancient city of Memphis that lies some 12 miles south of Cairo. The ancient city is now an open air museum testifying to the magnificence of its four thousand years of history. Near Memphis lies the necropolis of Saqqara, a vast, ancient burial ground, featuring numerous pyramids, including the world famous Step Pyramid of Djoser. We then proceed to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx located, on the Giza Plateau. The Great Pyramids of Giza are considered one of the seven wonders of the world. The Valley Temples surrounding the pyramids provide an insight to dominating religious motives of the era. Return to hotel for overnight.

Day 14: Cairo City Tour

Visit the Egyptian Museum, with its fantastic display of ancient civilization. Next, see the Mosque of Mohammad Ali, the Citadel, the old city and the Ben Ezra Synagogue also known as the Geniza Synagogue. Its store rooms were found to contain over 2,000 medieval manuscripts, a collection known as the Cairo Geniza. After, visit one of the oldest and most famous Coptic Churches in Egypt, the El Mullakah Church (Hanging Church). Continue to the City of the Dead, a four mile long grid of tombs and mausoleums where people live and work amongst their ancestors. End today's tour at  Bazaar Khan el-Khalili. Overnight in Cairo.

Day 15: Departure from Cairo

After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and drive to Cairo Airport for departure.