Get off the beaten track and discover the wonders of Bhutan, an isolated nation which has retained its age old customs, traditions and lifestyle. Then continue on to Kathmandu to explore Nepal with its breathtaking mountain scenery, ancient temples, wonderful wildlife and more. Take in the best of these two captivating Himalayan Kingdoms in 15 days.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Paro sightseeing tour & Thimphu weekend market
Paro - Thimphu. We begin our journey at the 17th-century Ta Dzong watchtower, home to Bhutan's National Museum. After a guided tour, we visit the nearby Rinpung Dzong monastery, which appears in the Hollywood film Little Buddha. Later this afternoon we drive to the capital city of Thimphu and visit the weekend market, where local vendors set up shop and sell their produce every Friday through Sunday.
Overnight: Thimphu | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Memorial Chortan & Handicrafts
Today we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Thimphu. Bhutan’s capital merges its ancient Buddhist customs with a rapidly modernising society, creating a truly different experience. We’ll visit the sacred Memorial Chorten stupa, the vast National Library, the scenic Drubthob Nunnery, the Folk Heritage Museum, and of course the Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s goat-like national animal.
Our tour will also introduce us to local arts and cuisine, with stops at various workshops producing a range of lovely handicrafts.
Overnight: Thimphu | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Punakha, Chimi Lhakhang Temple & Camp by the Mo Chu River
Thimphu - Punakha. This morning, we drive through lush forest to the 3050m-high Dochu La Pass, stopping briefly before proceeding to the Punakha Valley. We'll trek up to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, a lama known as the 'Divine Mad Monk' for his unorthodox teaching methods. We then continue to the beautiful Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most architecturally striking monasteries, which is located at the confluence of two rivers.
Later this afternoon we head to our campsite on the banks of the Mo Chu River, where we have time to settle. Perhaps try a traditional hot stone bath and local drinks in the early evening before dinner.
Overnight: Punakha Valley (camping) | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Punakha Valley Sightseeing
Punakha - Paro. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic hike (2-2.5 hrs) to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a small but majestic hill temple looking down on the Punakha Valley. We'll also drive to the picturesque villages along the valley ridge. After stopping for a picnic lunch, we visit Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nunnery, with fantastic views of the Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Apart from religious training, the nuns are taught skills such as embroidery, tailoring and statue making. After our visit to the nunnery, we drive to back to Paro.
Overnight: Paro | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tiger's Nest Monastery
Today we embark on a 4-6 hour hike to the incredible sight of Taktshang Pelphung (Tiger’s Nest), one of Bhutan's most sacred monasteries. Built on the face of a sharp cliff 900m above Paro Valley, Taktshang itself is only accessible on foot, though you can ride a pony for part of the journey (must be arranged in advance).
From the main trail, we take a steep hour-long walk up to a cafeteria for a short break, with views of the monastery. The trail continues uphill for another 45 minutes to a high vantage point, then descends past a dramatic waterfall and hermitage, before a flight of steep steps leading to the monastery.
After exploring the monastery's shrines and temples, we return to the cafeteria for lunch, before trekking back to Paro. This evening we enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner at a farm house, giving you the opportunity to interact with a local family and learn about the local cuisine of Bhutan.
Overnight: Paro | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paro
Friday. Paro - Kathmandu. Our tour of Bhutan concludes after breakfast today. A departure transfer will take you to Paro airport for your flight to Kathmandu in Nepal.
Note: The flight from Paro to Kathmandu is not included in the cost of the tour. Drukair fly direct. If you provide us with your flight details, we will be there to meet you at Kathmandu airport and transfer you to your hotel.
Overnight: Kathmandu | Breakfast
Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, seamlessly merges ancient tradition with cosmopolitan crowds. In the morning we visit the significant worship site of Bodhnath stupa, home to spinning prayer wheels and prostrating pilgrims. We then travel to the ancient town of Bhaktapur, a World Heritage site famed for its art and architecture, including the vast Bhaktapur Durbar Square. We’ll watch local families make the unique Ju Ju dhau (yoghurt), and try crafting pottery ourselves. Our final stop is the old Newari city of Patan, which has its own Durbar Square. We end the evening with dinner and a traditional Nepali dance performance.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Chitwan National Park
Kathmandu – Chitwan. On day 9 we travel by road to Chitwan National Park (approx 5 hr drive), arriving in time for lunch. Chitwan is hailed as one of Asia’s finest game parks, home to more than 500 species including the endangered one horned rhino, various types of deer, Indian elephant and the elusive Bengal tiger.
Over the next two days we enjoy a selection of activities offered by the lodge including a jeep safari, hoping to encounter the one horned rhino, various types of deer, boar, monkey, leopard and if we're very fortunate the Bengal tiger. Other activities at the lodge include a local village walk and nature walk in the jungle, a scenic dugout canoe ride down the Rapti River and bird watching. We'll also watch a traditional Tharu dance performance one evening with dinner.
Overnight: Chitwan National Park | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Pokhara
Chitwan National Park – Pokhara. Today we take a short flight from Chitwan to Pokhara. Arriving early afternoon the rest of the day is free to relax and take a stroll around this scenic lakeside town. Pokhara is the gateway to the magnificent Annapurna Range, which boasts five mountains over 7200m and has one of the Himalayas most distinctive mountains - Machhapuchare with its unique ‘fishtail’ peak.
Overnight: Pokhara | Breakfast
Boating on Lake Phewa
This morning, watch the sunrise from the Pokhara World Peace Pagoda, which offers impressive views of the Annapurna range from its hilltop location. A two-hour walk through Raniban forest takes us down to Lake Phewa for a short cruise. In the afternoon we visit a Tibetan refugee camp and a local school, before observing daily prayers at Matepani Monastery.
Overnight: Pokhara | Breakfast
R&R in Pokhara
Today is a free day for you to explore Pokhara and participate in optional activities such as paragliding, ultra-light flight, zip line, bungy jump, mountain biking, cycling, boating and horse riding, or if you prefer, simply relax down by the lake.
Overnight: Pokhara
Kathmandu
Pokhara - Kathmandu. This morning, we take a short flight back to Kathmandu. We continue exploring the city in the afternoon, admiring the views from the beautiful Swayambhunath stupa before walking to Kathmandu Durbar Square, home to over 50 incredible temples and shrines. We’ll also traverse the city streets by rickshaw, from Hanuman Dhaka to Thamel, immersing ourselves in Kathmandu’s daily life. We finish the day with an evening walk around the vibrant Thamel Market.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Saturday. Our tour comes to an end today with a transfer to Kathmandu Airport. An optional Everest scenic flight is offered on the morning of day 8 or day 15 (subject to availability) so if you’d like to book this please ensure that your onward flight on day 15 does not depart before midday.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departures are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Nak-Sel Boutique Hotel & Spa, Paro
The eco friendly and community based Naksel Boutique Hotel and Spa tastefully combines traditional Bhutanese design with the comforts of modern living. Guest rooms include queen size beds, hard wood flooring and delightful en suite facilities with under floor heating. The hotel is home to Olive restaurant which serves up a mouth watering array of Bhutanese, Indian, Asian and Western cuisine. The onsite bar - Chabchu is great for relaxing at in the evenings. For the adventurous try a glass of the local favourite, Ara, Bhutanese rice wine.
Hotel Migmar, Thimphu
Opened in 2010, Hotel Migmar is designed in classic Bhutanese style. Guest rooms are very colourful with wooden flooring and free wi-fi access. The hotel also has an onsite restaurant serving up a range of Asian cuisines, including Bhutanese and Indian. Those wishing to really relax whilst visiting should take advantage of the steam bath and meditation rooms that are available to guests. Located in the southern suburbs of Thimpu in a quiet neighbourhood.
Mo Chu River Camp, Punakha
A short drive from Punakha, the Mo Chu River Premium Camp sit on the banks of the River Mo Chu. Our accommodation tonight is set up 8 kilometres from the centre of Punakha on the banks of the Mo Chu River. We camp in two man walk in tents (twin/double sharing), which include thick mattresses, all bedding and towels. A toilet tent is built for the evenings stay, as is a shower tent (with hot water!) and there is also the option to try out a traditional hot stone bath. There is a central area with space to relax around a camp fire and the cook team will create traditional Bhutanese meals which will be served in the dining tent.
Vivanta Kathmandu, Kathmandu
This stylish 4 star hotel offers an oasis of modern comforts in the bustling city of Kathmandu. Conveniently located in the vibrant Patan District, just 1.1km from Patan Durbar Square, Vivanta Kathmandu offers spacious en suite guest rooms, equipped with a desk, flat screen tv, mini bar and free WiFi. After a busy day of sightseeing, head to the rooftop to relax in the heated infinity pool, enjoy a drink at the Koko Bar and watch the sunset, taking in the wonderful panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. For those that like to work up a sweat there's a state-of-the art fitness centre and a spa complete with a steam room and sauna to rejuvenate. The hotel has a choice of two restaurants, offering authentic local dishes in addition to international cuisine, and the kitchen is open 24/7, so you can enjoy delicious food at any time of the day or night.
The Soaltee Westend Resort , Chitwan National Park
Nestled in the heart of the lush jungles of Chitwan, Soaltee Westend Resort offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. Surrounded by verdant landscapes and exotic wildlife, this luxurious retreat seamlessly combines modern comforts with the tranquility of the Nepalese wilderness. The resort boasts an array of elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide utmost relaxation and convenience. The air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, a desk and seating area, a kettle and minibar, safety deposit box and a flat-screen TV. All rooms have a balcony and a private bathroom with a shower. Guests can indulge in a variety of experiences, from thrilling jungle safaris to peaceful nature walks and birdwatching excursions. After a day of exploration, unwind by the sparkling outdoor swimming pool, work out in the fitness centre or rejuvenate your senses at the spa, offering a range of holistic treatments inspired by ancient traditions. With its impeccable service, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking surroundings, the 5-star Soaltee Westend Resort promises an unforgettable stay amidst the enchanting beauty of Chitwan.
Atithi Resort and Spa, Pokhara
Atithi (Sanskrit for 'guest') offers genuine Nepalese hospitality in the centre of Pokhara, just a 5 minute stroll from beautiful Lake Phewa. At the heart of the resort is its spa, which incorporates yogic methods into a range of modern treatments, and an outdoor pool looking out upon the majestic Annapurna range. The all-day restaurant serves tasty Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisine and the lounge-bar is the ideal place to relax with a drink and enjoy light bites, after a day exploring the enchanting Lake City. The comfortable rooms are ensuite, with rosewood furniture, LCD television, free WiFi and mountain views.
Reviews
Travellers have rated this tour as 4.67 out of 5 based on 3 recent reviews
Our guide Lhab Tshering (LT) and our driver Arjun in Bhutan were exceptional. They both were always extremely helpful and knowledgeable, answering all our questions, guiding us when touring around and very kind and supportive on the very special climb we did to Tigers Nest, I couldn't have done it as well and as easily without his help. LT's daily trips were always very well planned and he and Arjun thought about our every need each and every day, planning what we did to also allow time to wander as well have snacks and drinks along the way, as well as adding in little extra things as the opportunity arose. Rob and I loved our tour in Bhutan and found the country and the people very friendly and helpful, and less crowded and rushed than in Nepal. Our guide in Nepal was Bir, who was also a good guide, and ensured we covered the itinery that had been planned for us to do, however, some days we seemed to have an awful lot to see, with little time to wander around, and with so much to see and do, a break in the middle for a snack or lunch was sometimes a bit later than some of the group would have liked, being around 3 to 4 pm having started the days sightseeing around 9am. To cover all the places we went to meant we had a couple of very long days, 6+ hours, traveling on Nepal's often quite poor and congested road system, the flight back from Pokhara to Kathmandu was a welcome relief.
The tour was actually 2 tours so rating the whole tour as one is difficult,
Bhutan I would give 5 stars for the tour, the tour guide and giving me a true feeling for that country.
Nepal I would give it 4 stars for the tour, because of the days traveling by road, 4 stars for the tour guide as sometimes his organization of the day felt rushed and lacked time for us and 5 stars for giving us a true feel for the country.”
Our guide Lhab Tshering (LT) and our driver Arjun in Bhutan were exceptional. They both were always extremely helpful and knowledgeable, answering all our questions, guiding us when touring around and very kind and supportive on the very special climb we did to Tigers Nest, I couldn't have done it as well and as easily without his help. LT's daily trips were always very well planned and he and Arjun thought about our every need each and every day, planning what we did to also allow time to wander as well have snacks and drinks along the way, as well as adding in little extra things as the opportunity arose. Rob and I loved our tour in Bhutan and found the country and the people very friendly and helpful, and less crowded and rushed than in Nepal. Our guide in Nepal was Bir, who was also a good guide, and ensured we covered the itinery that had been planned for us to do, however, some days we seemed to have an awful lot to see, with little time to wander around, and with so much to see and do, a break in the middle for a snack or lunch was sometimes a bit later than some of the group would have liked, being around 3 to 4 pm having started the days sightseeing around 9am. To cover all the places we went to meant we had a couple of very long days, 6+ hours, traveling on Nepal's often quite poor and congested road system, the flight back from Pokhara to Kathmandu was a welcome relief. ”
Our guide Lhab Tshering (LT) and our driver Arjun in Bhutan were exceptional. They both were always extremely helpful and knowledgeable, answering all our questions, guiding us when touring around and very kind and supportive on the very special climb we did to Tigers Nest, I couldn't have done it as well and as easily without his help. LT's daily trips were always very well planned and he and Arjun thought about our every need each and every day, planning what we did to also allow time to wander as well have snacks and drinks along the way, as well as adding in little extra things as the opportunity arose. Rob and I loved our tour in Bhutan and found the country and the people very friendly and helpful, and less crowded and rushed than in Nepal. Our guide in Nepal was Bir, who was also a good guide, and ensured we covered the itinery that had been planned for us to do, however, some days we seemed to have an awful lot to see, with little time to wander around, and with so much to see and do, a break in the middle for a snack or lunch was sometimes a bit later than some of the group would have liked, being around 3 to 4 pm having started the days sightseeing around 9am. To cover all the places we went to meant we had a couple of very long days, 6+ hours, traveling on Nepal's often quite poor and congested road system, the flight back from Pokhara to Kathmandu was a welcome relief. ”