India & Nepal Tour 2019

1. Volunteer Opportunities in the Himalayas :

This year, Ven. Donyo will be leading trips to Nepal and India. Before the main cultural tour starts, he will visit his village in Solukhumbu, Nepal and visit the schools where we provide sponsorships for some children.
He will spent most of his time at Shree Dorpu Primary School where we are planning to undertake some projects to improve the facilities in the school. We are currently providing salary for an English Teacher in that school, due to generous donors. This is the first time this school has an English teacher. After many discussions with the Headmistress, they requested us for further crucial assistance. Currently, the school does not have proper sanitation and water system. They also lack proper furniture in the classroom and does not have a playground. So this year we decided to focus our funds to provide some of their needs. Thus we are planning to  build toilets for the children and staff, a large water tank, playground, buy furniture and more . We will list their needs as per the priority and would like to invite you to sponsor or donate towards this initiative.

If you would like to participate and visit this school with Donyo, there will be a minimal cost of $550 which covers the round-trip airfare cost from Kathmandu to Phaplu airport (Solukhumbu) with room and board.

October 11 : Arrive in Kathmandu.

October 12 : Free day in Nepal

October 13 : Fly to Phaplu airport in Solukhumbu

October  13 - 18 : Project in Solukhumbu

October 19 : Fly back to Kathmandu

October 20 : Return back to US or join the Nepal Cultural Tour with Ven. Donyo

Trip Cost : $550.00

The above cost Includes

1. 6 nights in twin bed, shared rooms in Solukhumbu and Kathmandu.
2. All meals included for the duration of the project.
3. Overland transportation as per the tour itinerary.
4. Round trip flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu.
5. Airport transfer as per the group itinerary

Cost doesn’t include:

1. International Airfare and Visa for Nepal
2. Airport transfers and hotel accommodations for those arriving and leaving separately from the group.
3. Expenses occurred due to unavoidable Events i.e. road wrecks, flight delay/cancellations etc.
4. All personal expenses such as DRINKS, LAUNDRY, MEDICAL, etc.
5. Insurance of any kind
6. Cost which are not included above in “Cost Inc."

This is the minimal cost as it is volunteer based trip. Since this is also a peak season for tourists and trekkers, we have to book the flights in advance. If you are interested to join this volunteer opportunity, please send us your registration form and payment by July 1st. If you have any questions,please write to us at office@delekcf.org or call us at 510-674-6000. Join us to bring big smiles to the children in the Himalayas !

NEPAL CULTURAL TOUR

Nepal is an excellent country for a cultural sightseeing tour, with its long history, fascinating art, and unique and varied architecture. We have prepared this itinerary keeping in mind the vast diversity of people, their culture, language, and traditions. During this tour, we will experience the natural beauty of Pokhara, the wildlife of Chitwan, and the Buddhist pilgrimage sites in and around Kathmandu. Nepal’s two predominant religions, Hinduism and Buddhism, are ever present, with a variety of gods and goddess, temples, stupas, and monasteries that depict the deep faith of the people.

 Oct 19, Saturday: Depart SFO on SQ 001 at 01:00am.  Check in evening of  Oct 18^th.

Oct 20, Sunday, Day 1. Arrive in Kathmandu

Arrival in Kathmandu.  Ven. Donyo will meet you at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport and take you to the hotel. For the first few nights, you will stay in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu.

Oct 21, Monday, Day 2. Boudha and Sankhu 

The day’s activities begin with a visit to the giant Buddhist stupa, Boudhanath, the largest stupa in Kathmandu Valley at 131ft (40m) high, one of the largest and most important Buddhist stupas in the world. The all-seeing red, white and blue eyes of Buddha are painted on all four sides of the stupa, which is surrounded by hundreds of fluttering prayer flags, prayer wheels, and small images of the Buddha. Leaving Boudhanath, we will drive 14 miles northeast to one of the oldest sacred sites of the Kathmandu Valley, which is frequently visited by Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. Today, the main sacred site is a Vajrayogini temple, commonly known as Sankhu Vajrayogini. According to Newar tradition, Sankhu Vajrayogini is the eldest of the four sister yoginis of the valley.

Oct 22, Tuesday, Day 3. Swayambhu and Kathmandu Valley

In the morning, we will visit Swayambhunath stupa. According to legend, the Kathmandu Valley was filled with a great lake, at the center of which a lotus flower grew. With the slash of the sword of Manjushri, the Buddha of Wisdom, the lake was drained, and the lotus settled on top of the hill and transformed into the stupa. Following the trip to the stupa, we will visit one of the monasteries near Swayambhu.  Then we will visit Budanilkhantha temple. If time permits, we will visit the Garden of Dreams and Tham Bahil temple to see the ancient Sanskrit script written in gold.

Oct 23, Wednesday, Day 4. Bhaktapur

We will visit Bhaktapur, an important Newari town and the third-largest city in the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur was the capital of Nepal during the great Malla Kingdom, which lasted until the second half of the 15th century. Here we will see “Talking Tara,” a statue believed to have spoken to the king, telling him to invite Milarepa to come. The well-preserved ancient city is home to traditional art and architecture, historical monuments, pottery and weaving industries, festivals, and mystical music traditions.

Oct 24, Thursday, Day 5. Kathmandu to Chitwan by road (5 hours approx.)

Drive to Chitwan along the main highway that leads to the plains to Chitwan National Park, which is one of Asia's richest and most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries.  Upon arrival, we will check in to the hotel.

Chitwan National Park is the most popular destination for tourists who want to experience Nepal's wildlife. It was declared a National Park in 1973. In 1984, UNESCO designated Royal Chitwan National Park a Natural World Heritage Site. The Park offers protection to 56 species of mammals, including the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, leopards, sloth bears, wild elephants, striped hyenas, crocodiles, and birds. There are 470 species of mammals, over 500 species of birds, 126 species of fish, 150 species of butterflies, and 47 species of reptiles in the park.

Oct 25, Friday, Day 6. Chitwan

In Chitwan, in addition to its prime wildlife programs, other activities in the jungle include walks to local villages, bird watching, and canoeing. Overnight in Chitwan.

Oct 26, Saturday, Day 7. Chitwan to Pokhara by road (5 – 6 hours)

After breakfast, we will leave for Pokhara, a place of  remarkable natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 2714 ft (827m) above sea level and 125 miles (200 km) west of Kathmandu valley, the city is known as a center of adventure. There are several beautiful lakes that offer stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The serenity of the lakes with the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic. Today the city is the starting point for popular trekking and rafting destinations, as well as a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

During the day, we will explore Pokhara's marketplaces, old bazaars, and landmarks. Evening in Pokhara has its own charm, especially around the lake side of Phewa Lake, which is dotted with fancy restaurants, shops, and simple guest houses. If time permits, we will visit one of the Tibetan refugee camps. Overnight in Pokhara.

Oct 27, Sunday, Day 8. Pokhara sightseeing

We will begin the full-day sightseeing of Pokhara. In the early morning, we will drive to Sarangkot to watch the sunrise. As the day breaks, you can admire a panoramic sweep of Himalayan peaks from west to east. After sightseeing at Sarangkot, we will drive to Peace Temple to see the World Peace Pagoda. The dirt road to the pagoda offers stunning scenery. The World Peace Pagoda was constructed by the Buddhists from Japanese Nipponzan Myohoji organization.

After lunch, you will visit Davis Fall, locally known as Patale Chhango. Afterwards, we will have a relaxed evening beside Phewa Lake.

Oct 28, Monday, Day 9. Pokhara to Kathmandu

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu.  Check in to the hotel. After lunch in Kathmandu, transfer to visit Patan. Patan offers an amazing cultural experience, and is the best place to purchase great Buddha statues at reasonable prices. The highlight is the grand Patan Durbar Square which is full of ornate monasteries, temples, statues and carvings. We will visit the Golden Temple, Mahabodhi temple, Arya Bukham and Arya Akham.

Oct 29, Tuesday, Day 10. Pharping

We will drive one and half hour to Pharping, a sacred monastic zone. We will begin the pilgrimage by visiting the self-manifested Green Tara on rocks, which is surrounded by monasteries. Above that hill, the stairs lead to Asura Cave which is sacred to Guru Rinpoche.  If time permits, we will hang prayer flags on the hilltop. On the return, we will visit Vajrayogini Temple, which is one of the four Vajrayogini temples in the valley.

On the way back, we will visit some of the pilgrimage sites in city, such as the Three Taras temple, Arya Jamali ( Seto Macchindranath), one of the five self-arisen noble brothers. After the spiritual tour, drive back to Kathmandu.

Oct 30, Wednesday, Day 11. Free day in Kathmandu

The final day is a time to rest before everyone leaves for home or join the next trip to India with Ven Donyo.

TRIP COST : $2600.00

The above cost Includes

1. 10 nights in twin bed, shared rooms in 3 - 4 star hotels with.
2. All meals included for the duration of the tour.
3. Overland transportation as per the tour itinerary.
4. One way flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
5. Airport transfer as per the group itinerary.
6. Necessary Entrance fees and permit in Nepal.

Cost doesn’t include:

1. International Airfare and Visa for Nepal
2. Airport transfers and hotel accommodations for those arriving and leaving separately from the group.
3. Expenses occurred due to unavoidable Events i.e. road wrecks, flight delay/cancellations etc.
4. All personal expenses such as DRINKS, LAUNDRY, MEDICAL, etc.
5. Insurance of any kind
6. Tips (On the last day all members will offer small gifts to our bus driver and his assistant. They always expect some gift from us at the end of the service).
7. Cost which are not included above in “Cost Inc."

 

Registration:

To register for the pilgrimage, please mail us a $500 check payable to Delek Children's Foundation along with complete registration form and a photocopy of your passport for hotel reservation to: 5600 Sutter Ave. Richmond, CA 94804 by Jul 1st . Final payment must be made by Aug 1st. Once we receive your registration, we'll send you a confirmation. However, without the deposit, your registration will not be confirmed. Your deposit will be part of the tour payment.

If anyone wishes to join the pilgrimage from other states or other countries, they are welcome to do so. However, registration is still required and all participants must arrive in Delhi as per tour schedule.

Important:
For your international tickets, we recommend you to contact Sonam at Third Eye Travel at 510 487 9010 and she will assist you with the international flight reservation. If you prefer to fly on different airlines, please make sure to mention that to her and she will find the best option. You must arrive in New Delhi on the same day according to the group schedule. If you arrive in Delhi one day before or after the group, all the additional expenses will not be included in the package.

India and Nepal Visas : Please apply for your Indian visa before you book your airline ticket unless you already obtained your Indian visa previously. The Indian consulate has appointed Cox & Kings Visa Services to accept visa applications.Visa for Nepal can be obtained upon arrival at the airport. The cost for Nepalese visa is $25 for minimum 15 days. Please make sure to bring extra passport photos for the Nepalese visa.

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TOUR EXTENSION - Dalai Lama Teachings in Dharamsala, India

October 30– November 8, 2019

Oct 30, Wednesday, Day 1. Kathmandu -Delhi flight

Arrive in Delhi and transfer to hotel.

October 31, Thursday, Day 2 : Delhi - Dharamsala

Arrive in Dharamsala and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore.

Nov 1, Friday, Day 2. Dharamsala

Local sightseeing

Nov 2, Saturday, Day 3. Gyuto Monastery’s 600^th years Anniversary Celebration

After breakfast, attend the ceremony at Gyuto Monastery. His Holiness the Dalai Lama will be the chief guest.

Nov 3, Sunday, Day 4. Dharamsala

Sightseeing around Dharamsala

Nov 4, Monday, Day 5. His Holiness Dalai Lama teaching

Attend His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teaching at his temple.

Nov 5, Tuesday, Day 6. His Holiness Dalai Lama teaching

Attend His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teaching at his temple.

Nov 6, Wednesday, Day 7. His Holiness Dalai Lama teaching

Attend His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teaching at his temple.

Nov 7, Thursday, Day 8. Dharamsala - Delhi

Arrive in Delhi. Rest of the day is free.

Nov 8, Friday, Day 9. Delhi back to US      

Return back to US.  

TRIP COST : $1075.00

The above cost Includes

1. 09 days in twin bed, shared rooms with breakfast and dinner only.
2. Overland transportation as per the tour itinerary.
3. Round trip flight from Delhi to Dharamsala.
4. Airport transfer as per the itinerary.

Cost doesn’t include:

1. International Airfare and Visa for India
2. Lunch not included.
3. Excess baggage fees
4. Airport transfers and hotel accommodations for those arriving and leaving separately from the group.
5. Expenses occurred due to unavoidable Events i.e. road wrecks, flight delay/cancellations etc.
6. All personal expenses such as DRINKS, LAUNDRY, MEDICAL, etc.
7. Insurance of any kind
8. Tips (On the last day members will offer small gifts to our bus driver and his assistant. They always expect some gift from us at the end of the service).
9. Cost which are not included above in “Cost Inc."

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:

• October -November is good weather in Nepal and India but may get a little cold in the morning and evening, so we recommend some warm clothes and/or extra layers just in case
• Comfortable shoes for a lot of walking
• A small, light blanket can be very useful on the bus
• Modest clothes - skin exposure and figure-hugging clothes are not commonly worn in India and Nepal and will bring a lot of unwanted and annoying attention
• If you are taking any electrical items, you will need 220 volts (NOT 110 volt) and the correct adapter plug for India and Nepal
• A small camera and a reliable alarm clock
• Hat and sunglasses -the sun can be quite strong even in winter
• Tylenol, cough drops, bandages, and so on for basic first aid/medical needs
• RECOMMENDED/OPTIONAL
• A small hot water bottle
• Strong plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes
• Padlock(s) - mainly for luggage
• Wet wipes or wet towels, very useful in India
• Dried fruit & nuts/ snacks for yourself on the bus
• Blow up neck ring cushion
• Small flashlight
• Small first aid kit