Nepal and Bhutan Tour
Trip Facts
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy awe-inspiring Himalayan views during a thrilling flight to Bhutan
- Explore the magnificent temples, palaces, and cultural attractions of the Kathmandu Valley
- Hike up to the remarkable Paro Taktsang monastery, an iconic landmark built into the cliffs
- Immerse yourself in Nepal and Bhutan's captivating local cultures and time-honored traditions
- Savor the rich diversity of flavors in the delicious cuisines native to both countrie
- Uncover the mysteries of Bhutan, repeatedly ranked the world's happiest country
- Witness Bhutan's world-famous and visually stunning tsechu festivals firsthand
- Tour numerous architecturally striking monasteries, fortresses, and dzongs across Bhutan
Introduction
Historically called by such provocative names as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” and the “Southern Land of Darkness,” the captivating Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan offers travelers a window into a mystical world where ancient traditions still hold sway.
Though largely isolated for centuries, this devoutly Buddhist nation began cautiously opening its doors to outsiders in the 1970s. Since then, travelers have discovered that Bhutan has much more than breathtaking mountain vistas steeped in legend.
Even today, Bhutan remains refreshingly lost in time. Tiny villages overflow with medieval monasteries and stunning fortresses guarding red-robed monks on their rounds.
Popular places to visit include the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery (Paro Taktsang monastery), which clings to a cliff above the Paro Valley. Stone tools and other artifacts indicate Bhutan was inhabited at the beginning of 2000 BC, yet no records remain from that time.
Down in the lush valleys, herders tend yak and rice paddies amid lush forests where rare cranes take winter refuge as they have for long periods untold. The Bhutanese have also changed little – shielding vibrant artistic traditions, clothing, cuisine, and customs nurtured in isolation.
Buddhism first came to Bhutan in the 7th century during the Tibetan empire. More monasteries and temples were later built across the country to spread the religion. By 747 AD, the Buddhist Guru Rinpoche visited Bhutan and established many monasteries.
Of course, even Bhutan has not remained totally untouched as the modern world advances relentlessly onward all around it. Yet where its neighbors prioritized rapid industrialization, this Himalayan kingdom chose a different path – one seeking balance by promoting Gross National Happiness and environmental conservation.
A glimpse into Bhutan’s magnificent beauty and culture awaits with this thoughtfully prepared Bhutan tour package showcasing the peaceful kingdom’s most captivating sights.
In the span of a long weekend, prepare to create treasured memories while exploring landmarks in Thimpu and the Paro Valley, reflecting Bhutan’s rich heritage and world-famous natural splendor.
14 Interesting Facts about Bhutan
- Druk yul: Bhutanese name of Bhutan
- National privity in grossnational happiness
- Sabtainable Development feet for well-being
- World first carbon negative country
- Ban on Climbing high Mountain
- Takin: An Amizing Mammal asa national animals
- Archery an Amizing National sport
- Adnerence to Driglam Namzha for Dress code
- No Traffic light in the Capital
- Belief in the existence of yeti: Beyond myth
- Unique Architecture and paintings of homes
- Women’s Empowerment
- Last National in the world to introduce television
- Great destination for trekking and advanture
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro – 2,200m
Day 04: Paro Sightseeing and Drive to Thimpu – 2,248m
Day 05: Thimphu Sightseeing and Drive to Wangi — 2,200m
Day 06: Wangdi to Panakha to Thimphu to Paro – 2,200m
Day 07: Fly from Paro to Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 08: Rest day in Kathmandu – 1,300m
Day 09: Departure from Kathmandu Airport – 1,300m
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu -1300m
After your long flight, you will arrive at Kathmandu's airport to start your stunning Bhutan tour. One of our representatives will be waiting to welcome you with a warm "Namaste" greeting. You will take a short drive through colorful bustling streets to reach your peaceful hotel.
Once settled into your room, meet back downstairs for tea with your tour guide. He will discuss details of the upcoming tour, including the route, what to expect each day, your expert crew, and a packing list to check. After going over everything, enjoy wandering Kathmandu on your own to rest up or take in sights.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 star hotel in KathmanduDay 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu - 1300m
After a hearty breakfast, it's time for an amazing tour of Kathmandu's highlights. We'll start the day at sunrise, visiting Bodnath Stupa's watching eyes - the largest spherical stupa in Nepal. Stroll alongside pilgrims lighting butter lamps and spinning engraved prayer wheels.
Next, our private transport drives across town to Pashupatinath Temple, the nation's most important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Lose yourself wandering through detailed carved wooden temples connecting the Bagmati River.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant site of Kathmandu Durbar Square, where Newari kings have been crowned since the 10th century. Explore narrow backstreets lined with hidden stone shrines before touring the old Royal Palace, filled with wood carvings and pagoda temples.
After a packed day uncovering Kathmandu's treasures, retreat back to the hotel for an early dinner. Have a delicious dinner and get plenty of rest - tomorrow, we fly into the mythic Land of the Thunder Dragon!
Altitude: 1300Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 star hotel in KathmanduDay 03: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro - 2,200m
Today, we'll leave the Kathmandu Valley behind and soar into the clouds towards Bhutan. This popular multi-day tour starts by savoring spectacular Himalayan views during the short flight between Nepal and Paro. Even Mount Everest and Lhotse Peak from the southern horizon can be seen from windows if the weather allows.
When you arrive at Paro International Airport, our Bhutan guide and driver will meet you and take you to your accommodation.
Altitude: 2200mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: 3 star hotel in ParoDay 04: Paro Sightseeing and Drive to Thimpu - 2,248m
Today is the iconic hike up to Taktshang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery. This famous cliffside monastery is one of Bhutan's most sacred sites. We'll hike around 5 hours uphill following a wooded trail lined with prayer flags and shrines. Legend says Guru Rinpoche arrived at this spot on the back of a tigress and blessed it. Ever since its rediscovery, Tiger's Nest has been a revered pilgrimage site that all Bhutanese strive to visit.
Along our hike, we will also stop at the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple. This simple yet holy site was one of over 100 temples built by King Songtsen Gampo. Our guide will share stories of this Buddhist king and the origins of Bhutan's deep spiritual heritage.
Witnessing Kyichu Lhakhang and Tiger's Nest in one day will be an unforgettable pilgrimage through ancient Buddhist history still alive in Bhutan. Later that day, we’ll drive to Thimpu for an overnight stay.
Altitude: 2248mMeals: B/L/D planAccommodation: 3 star hotel in thimpuDay 05: Thimphu Sightseeing and Drive to Wangi - 2,200m
This morning, our cultural immersion into mystical Bhutan begins by driving up to Kuensel Phodrang, or Buddha Point. From this lofty lookout, span your eyes across the lush Thimphu Valley to the figure of Dordenma - one of the earth's largest sitting Buddha statues. Learn about the ambitious project honoring previous kings as you circumambulate the noble figure wreathed in incense.
We'll then pay respects at the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to the beloved late Third King. Hundreds of devotees visit it daily, lighting butter lamps and chanting mantras along its marble walkways. Pause to appreciate spiritual rituals and continuing traditions stretching back centuries in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Mid-morning, we trade quiet meditation visiting Motithang Takin Preserve - a wildlife sanctuary for Bhutan's national animals to roam the protected forest as they have for ages.
After a hearty Bhutanese lunch, immerse deeper into the culture at Simtokha Dzong - the oldest fortress monastery in the country now functioning as a prominent Buddhist institute focused on traditional arts. Explore its elegant architecture, winding stairways and precious relics speaking to Bhutan's deep spiritual heritage.
We cap our first day at the Zilukha Nunnery, where you may receive a special blessing. This idyllic hilltop convent nurturing 30 nuns features serene temples and prayer wheels, all backed by panoramic Himalayan vistas.
Ultimately, we'll take a drive to Wangi. What better way to end a day than experiencing Bhutan's heart and soul?
Meals: B/L/D planAccommodation: 4 star hotel wangiDay 06: Wangdi to Punakha to Thimphu to Paro
Good morning! Today we will continue our journey through the breathtaking landscape of Bhutan. After breakfast at the hotel, we'll drive from Wangdi to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Along the way, we'll stop at Dochula Pass for panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range and to visit the 108 chortens built here.
In Punakha, we'll visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, strategically built at the confluence of two rivers. This stunning fortress is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Next, we'll cross the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan over the Po Chhu river to hike to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman and known for its fertility shrine.
After lunch, we'll drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Here we'll visit the places that we missed previously. There will be time to explore Thimphu's markets before continuing on to Paro.
The drive to Paro is spectacular, following the Pa Chhu river valley with views of terraced farmland, traditional wooden Bhutanese homes, and forested hills. After checking into our hotel, the evening is free to explore Paro's neighborhoods and markets.
Altitude: 2200mMeals: B/L/D planAccommodation: 3 star hotel in paroDay 07: Fly from Paro to Kathmandu - 1,300m
After an amazing time exploring the beautiful kingdom of Bhutan, we will take a short flight from Paro to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The flight provides spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon landing in Kathmandu, you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 star hotel in KathmanduDay 08: Rest day in Kathmandu - 1,300m
After several days of trekking and sightseeing, today you can enjoy a well-deserved rest day in Kathmandu. Sleep in and relax at your hotel, or venture out to visit some places at your own pace. Stroll through the fascinating streets and squares of the city, mingle with locals at the markets and temples, and soak up the spiritual atmosphere.
Stop for a rejuvenating massage or just find a cafe to sit back and watch daily life unfold. Kathmandu has many restaurants to taste local flavors when you get hungry.We hope you enjoy this break in the schedule and have fun exploring Kathmandu on your own terms.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 star hotel in KathmanduDay 09: Departure from Kathmandu Airport
It's time to say farewell to Nepal! Today, you'll be transferred to the Kathmandu airport for your home flight. Our drivers will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to the airport for your departure flight.
We wish you a smooth flight home and look forward to traveling with you again! Safe travels and we hope to see you next time in amazing Nepal!
Altitude: 1300mMeals: Breakfast
What's included
- Airport pickup and drop
- Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle with driver
- All necessary travel permits for Nepal and Bhutan
- Professional English-speaking guide licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Your guide will be with you throughout the entire trip.
- Accommodations in twin-share rooms at hotels specified in itinerary
- Entry fees for all sightseeing destinations and monasteries listed in itinerary
- Full board meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Drinking water - 2 bottles per person per day
- Visa fees and mandatory tourism development fees (TDF) for Bhutan
- Flight from Kathmandu/Delhi/Bangkok/Singapore to Paro
What's not included
- Nepal visa fee
- Travel insurance (recommended to purchase your own policy)
- Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters outside of our control
- Personal expenses such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, phone calls, souvenirs, tips for guides and drivers
- Tips for crew members
FAQs of Nepal and Bhutan Tour
How long is the Bhutan tour, and what does the itinerary include?
Our Kathmandu-Bhutan tour is 9 days/8 nights. The itinerary includes sightseeing in Kathmandu, followed by flights to Paro, Bhutan. We'll explore the highlights of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Wangdi before returning to Kathmandu.What kind of transportation is included?
Private transportation with an experienced driver is included for airport transfers, sightseeing, and drives between cities in air-conditioned vehicles appropriate for the destination. Flights between Kathmandu and Bhutan are also included.What type of accommodations are included?
Our tour includes 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Bhutan with twin share rooms and private bathrooms. Hotels are centrally located and close to top attractions. Note: The accommodation can be upgraded to 5-star hotels per your choice. However, this can affect the tour cost, making it more expensive.Will there be an English-speaking guide?
Yes, a licensed English-speaking guide will be with you throughout the tour to provide commentary, historical insights, and look after logistics. This allows you to fully experience each destination.What meals are included?
Breakfasts are included at each hotel. Lunch and dinners will be at local restaurants to sample authentic cuisine. Bottled water is provided daily.Is a visa required for Bhutan?
Yes, visas for Bhutan are required. We assist with visa process including submitting your photo and passport details.Is trekking involved in this tour?
No trekking is included on this culturally focused tour. There will be some light hiking to visit temples and monasteries like Taktshang Monastery, but nothing strenuous. The tour is accessible for most mobility levels.Can the tour itinerary be customized?
Yes, we are happy to discuss customizing or extending the itinerary to suit your specific interests. Additional destinations in Nepal or extra nights in Bhutan can be added.
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