Nepal and Bhutan tour
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Nepal/Bhutan
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Activities: Cultural Sightseeing
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Accommodation: Hotels
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Meals: BB (Nepal)/Full-board (Bhutan)
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Transportation: Private vehicle/Plane
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Maximum altitude: Taktsang Monastery (3120m)
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu - Kathmandu
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Best Season: Feb-Jun, Sep-Nov
The Nepal and Bhutan tour is the cultural and nature tour of two beautiful cities in the Himalayas. Nepal and Bhutan are both beautiful countries located in the Himalayan region. A tour that combines both countries will allow you to explore the unique cultures, stunning landscapes, and ancient architecture of the region.
In Nepal, some of the must-visit places include Kathmandu, the capital city, where you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Boudhanath Stupa and Pashupatinath Temple. You can also visit the ancient cities of Bhaktapur and Patan, known for their well-preserved Durbar Squares and traditional Newari culture. A visit to Pokhara, the gateway to the Annapurna region, offers the chance to see the beautiful Phewa Lake and stunning mountain views.
Travelling from Nepal to Bhutan, you will experience a completely different cultural and natural landscape. Bhutan, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon”, is known for its untouched beauty and unique traditions. The capital city, Thimphu, offers a blend of modernity and tradition, with highlights including the National Memorial Chorten and the Tashichho Dzong. Paro is home to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a sacred Buddhist site perched on a cliff.
During your tour, you can also explore Punakha, known for its stunning dzongs and beautiful valley, and the Haa Valley, a remote and less-visited region of Bhutan that offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
Visiting these two countries together will provide an enriching experience, showcasing the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritualism of the Himalayas. A tour of Nepal and Bhutan offers the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural wonders of these two beautiful Himalayan countries. Here is a suggested itinerary for a Nepal and Bhutan tour:
Nepal and Bhutan tour Highlights:
- Sightseeing at UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu.
- Visit the beautiful lakeside town of Pokhara.
- Sarangkot sunrise over the Himalayas.
- Scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro & back.
- Cultural tour around Bhutan visiting many landmarks.
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery 'Tiger's Nest' (3120m)
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400m)
Day 02: In Kathmandu – Cultural sightseeing
Day 03: Fly to Pokhara & half-day tour
Day 04: Sarangkot Sunrise Tour & Pokhara City Sightseeing
Day 05: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 06: Kathmandu to Paro flight & drive to Thimphu (2350m)
Day 07: Thimphu to Punakha (1310m)
Day 08: Punakha to Gangtey (3200m)
Day 09: Gangtey to Paro (2250m)
Day 10: In Paro – Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3120m)
Day 11: Paro to Kathmandu flight
Day 12: Kathmandu – Depart
Arrive in Kathmandu and one of our representatives will receive you and then transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The rest of the time is free to explore the city where your hotel is located which is usually at Thamel – the popular tourist hub in Kathmandu where every needs and facilities for the tourist are located like hotels, pubs, restaurants, departmental stores, trek gear shops etc. Or you can simply rest at your hotel if you are jet lagged and get ready for an amazing Himalayan trek.
After breakfast, you have a full day to explore the city and its cultural treasures. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel then your city guide shall meet you at the hotel’s lobby to start up the tour. Head to Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. Located atop a hill, Swayambhunath offers panoramic views of the city and is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. Explore the stupa complex, adorned with prayer flags, Buddhist shrines, and intricate carvings. Observe the monkeys that inhabit the area, giving the temple its unique nickname.
Then proceed to Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur, just south of Kathmandu. This ancient square is known for its well-preserved Newari architecture, palaces, temples, and courtyards. Explore the Krishna Mandir, the Patan Museum, and the various temples and sculptures within the square.
Next, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal and an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Shiva. Observe the intricate architecture, visit the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness the rituals and cremation ceremonies along the banks of the Bagmati River.
Afterward, proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred Buddhist site is an important pilgrimage destination and a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Walk around the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and observe the faithful circumambulating the stupa while reciting prayers. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in the Boudhnath area and drive back to your hotel.
In the evening you can take a stroll around Thamel on your own, a bustling neighborhood known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Browse through local handicraft stores, grab a coffee or a drink, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Catch a short flight to Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside town. After checking in, enjoy a half-day tour of Pokhara’s highlights, including Devi’s Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, and a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake.
On day 4 of your Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan tour, you have the opportunity to witness a beautiful sunrise from Sarangkot and explore the city of Pokhara. Wake up early in the morning, around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m., to prepare for the Sarangkot sunrise tour- a hill station located about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from Pokhara. Reach Sarangkot before sunrise to secure a good spot at the viewpoint. Sarangkot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and other peaks. Witness the sunrise as the first rays of light illuminate the majestic mountains, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
After the sunrise experience, return to Pokhara and have breakfast at your hotel. Then start your city sightseeing tour which covers places like Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Seti River Gorge, International Mountain Museum, World Peace Pagoda, Shiva Temple, Bindabasini Temple etc. Then return to the hotel.
Return to Kathmandu by flight. Spend the day at your leisure, perhaps exploring local markets or indulging in last-minute shopping.
Fly to Paro, Bhutan, and upon arrival, drive to the capital city, Thimphu. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture as you explore the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Drive to Punakha, passing through the scenic Dochula Pass with panoramic Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
Drive to Gangtey, a serene valley known for its stunning landscapes and the Gangtey Monastery. Enjoy a walk through the beautiful Gangtey Nature Trail.
Return to Paro, with an optional visit to the Chimi Lhakhang temple en route. In Paro, explore the town’s quaint streets and immerse yourself in the Bhutanese atmosphere.
Embark on an iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. The monastery clings to a cliff, offering spectacular views and a deeply spiritual experience.
Fly back to Kathmandu. Spend your last evening in Nepal reminiscing about your journey and soaking in the vibrant ambience of the city.
Your memorable journey comes to an end. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the diverse experiences you’ve had in both Nepal and Bhutan as you head home or continue your travels elsewhere.
What is included?
- Airport pick-up and drop services.
- Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu by flight.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu & Pokhara with breakfast
- All applicable tourist entrance, monumental fees.
- Sightseeing in Nepal & Bhutan as per program.
- Accommodation in Bhutanese government-approved tourist standard hotels throughout the trip.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) while in Bhutan.
- Bhutan visa fees and processing assistance.
- Remuneration to the Bhutanese government-certified English-speaking local tour guide.
- Bhutanese government’s royalties, and taxes.
- All government and local taxes in Nepal.
What is not included?
- International airfares including (Bhutan flights)
- Personal insurance.
- Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu.
- Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu or Pokhara (except Bhutan)
- Bar bills, alcoholic drinks & beverages.
- Other expenses of personal nature (phone calls, laundry etc.)
- Tips to guide or drivers
Route Map
