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Map of Essence of Nepal & Bhutan including Bhutan and Nepal

Experience the mysterious mountain kingdom of Bhutan and the diversity of destinations in Nepal

This adventure encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by travellers. Whether you’re exploring the exotic capital of Kathmandu, discovering Pokhara, beneath awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, or exploring the rural beauty around the hilltop village of Tansen, finding spirituality in Lumbini - the birth place of Buddha or exploring Chitwan National Park in search of big game. Undoubtedly the amazing flight to view Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) up-close will take your breath away. Nepal is incredible. You’ll be left with no doubt why so many return to the country time and time again.

Bhutan is perhaps the most mysterious and diverse of all the Himalayan kingdoms, where for centuries a traditional Buddhist culture has thrived in isolation from the rest of the world. It is a country that puts its people and environment first – a place where progress is measured in gross national happiness not GDP, and that’s not just carbon neutral, but carbon negative. It’s a place of lush forested valleys, fortified monasteries, sacred mountains, and art and architecture unique to the region. This journey begins in Paro and heads straight to Thimphu, where there are two days to discover the history and heritage of this charming and serene capital. Walk in the countryside and back in time with visits to the beautiful Punakha and Haa Valleys. Here the rural lifestyle and architecture of Bhutan is explored before returning to Paro. Finish with a true highlight – the spectacular Taktsang (the Tiger’s Nest), a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. A journey through the astonishing beauty of the people, landscape and culture of Bhutan will have your happiness levels off the scale.

Start
Kathmandu, Nepal
Finish
Paro, Bhutan
Destinations
Bhutan, Nepal
Style
Peregrine
Code
PHNJC
Physical rating
Trip rating
1 review
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

Why you'll love this trip

  • Beginning in Kathmandu, there's ample time to discover the capital's staggeringly rich cultural and artistic heritage

  • Whether it's flying, hiking, driving or canoeing, you'll experience Nepal's stunning natural beauty from all angles

  • A breathtaking Everest flight gives you the chance to witness some truly world-class mountain scenery

  • The beautiful Chitwan National Park, brimming with exotic bird life and game, offers a vast array of activities. Enjoy a jeep safari and a jungle walk with an expert resident naturalist

  • Bhutan is perhaps the most mysterious and diverse of all the Himalayan kingdoms, where for centuries a traditional Buddhist culture has thrived in isolation from the rest of the world.

  • It is a land of contrast - with lush forested valleys, fortified monasteries, sacred mountains, art and architecture unique to the region.

  • The capital Thimphu is charming and serene, a delight to explore.

  • The opportunity to explore the rural lifestyle and architecture of Bhutan via the beautiful Punakha and Haa Valleys

  • Visiting Taktsang (the Tiger's Nest) - a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor in Paro is truly a highlight.

  • Unique 'features stays' in each country, one with breathtaking views from your river front cottage in Chitwan National Park, the other boasting elaborate hand-carved wooden cornices, masterful stonework, and modern amenities in a Heritage Lodge and Spa.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Embracing the slow pace and meditative atmosphere will go a long way toward your enjoyment of these beautiful countries.

  • There are some beautiful, but windy drives in both countries. If you are prone to motion sickness, please bring medication with you.

  • In Bhutan short distances can take much longer to travel due to small, narrow roads and mountain passes.

  • Exploring Chitwan National Park's beautiful trails on foot requires a reasonable level fitness, and the hike to Tiger’s nest can be strenuous. The altitude is up to 3120 metres and can take around 5 hours return.

  • Please be aware of altitude when you arrive in Bhutan. Paro is at 2250 metres. As a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the ‘Medical and Health Information’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

  • The hotel in Tansen is in an unbeatable location with breathtaking panoramic views, though not quite of the same standard as the other accommodation on this trip.

  • All meals are included while in Bhutan, due to the nature of tourism in this beautiful country. This means there may be limited choices on some days.

Bhutan local man
Bhutan ta dzong

Itinerary
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Welcome to Nepal! On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met at the airport by a Peregrine representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Join an important group meeting at 6 pm, followed by an optional group dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Shangri-La or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through us. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

In the early morning, you will make an attempt at the Mount Everest scenic flight. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, climaxing by getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morning, explore Kathmandu on an organised sightseeing tour. You will visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. You will also visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon in Kathmandu is free for further sightseeing and exploration.
Accommodation
  • Annapurna Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight
  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
  • Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that the Everest scenic flight is completely weather dependent. In cases of bad weather, the scenic flight will be attempted at the end of the trip.

Travel to Nagarkot in a private vehicle. On the 3-hour journey, there are two stops at UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way, starting with Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is revered as one of the world’s few well preserved ancient cities, playing host to a wondrous range of exotically designed temples and statues. Then wander to the ancient temple of Changu Narayan, erected in dedication to the Lord Vishnu and site of numerous legends. Upon arrival to Nagarkot, prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas.
Accommodation
  • Club Himalaya or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Bhaktapur - Changu Narayan Temple
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you will fly to Pokhara with an estimated flight time of 30 minutes – if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan mountain chain to the north. On arrival, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal, the second largest lake in Nepal. The visit to the Peace Pagoda afterwards grants excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. Next comes a visit to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After this, you have the day free to explore peaceful Pohkara and its surrounds.
Accommodation
  • Shangri-La Village or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Enjoy a free day for further exploration of the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. Your group leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities – maybe take a boat for a row out on the lake, explore the Hindu temple or Buddhist monastery, or simply pick up some souvenirs and relax in your hotel.
Accommodation
  • Shangri-La Village or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Travel by private vehicle to Tansen on a 5-hour drive. Formerly known as the capital of the Magar kingdom Tanahun, Tansen is now known as the home of the United Mission Hospital, a partnership between 20 Christian organisations and Nepal that sees over 100,000 patients per year. During your stay, visit Tansen town, the palace museum, a dhaka topi (traditional hat) and brass bottle workshop and experience an interaction with the locals.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Shrinagar or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Though our accommodation in Shrinagar will have all amenities required and private bathrooms, our hotel for this night will be a little more basic when compared to other accommodation on this trip. Accommodation options in this region are limited, but this is the best Hotel in the area.

An optional hike to the Rani Mahal is available today. Rani Mahal translates to ‘Queens Palace’, as the site was built as a monument of love to the deceased youngest wife of former general Khadga Samsher Rana, Tej Kumari Devi. Your other option is to travel to Tansen Hill station where panoramic views of Annapurna and Tansen valley can be seen, and Tansen town lies nearby should you wish to continue exploring it. Later this afternoon drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Hokke or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning head out of Lumbini to Tilaurakot, which houses the ruins of ancient Kapilvastu – the capital of the Sakya kingdom and where Buddha spent his youth as Prince Siddhartha. Also, explore Nighlihawa and Gotihawa, which are closeby to Tilaurakot and have broken Ashoka pillars and other relics. Enjoy lunch and then return to Lumbini in the afternoon. There’s also the option to explore Lumbini’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lumbini is known as the holiest place of one of the world’s great religions and the area contains important evidence about the nature of Buddhist pilgrimage centres from as early as third century BC. Discover the serenity of the Maya Devi Temple, the statue of Little Buddha, and the Bodhi Tree, which is very close by your accommodation.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Hokke or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lumbini - Heritage Park
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast, prepare to be picked up and driven to Chitwan National Park (approximately 4 hours). After arriving and settling in, meet the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the park’s habitat conservation program. There’s some flexibility with activities in this area, which may vary depending on the time of year and known wildlife movements and locations. A late afternoon safari is an experience like none other, showing the varied and exciting flora and fauna of the park. Enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the song of the jungle.
Accommodation
  • Kasara Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chitwan NP - Village tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning trip to begin a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This exhilarating ride offers chances to spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but the magnificent creatures inhabit the park so it’s not to be ruled out. Upon your return to dry land, an organised program will help fill the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.
Accommodation
  • Kasara Resort (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Chitwan - Canoe safari, bird watching walk or jeep safari
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Drive to Chitwan Airport on a 1-hour drive before flying back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, so perhaps engage in some shopping or just relax at your hotel. A farewell dinner will be held at the Utsav Restaurant, featuring an authentic night of local cultural food and dance.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Shangri-La or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Leave Nepal behind today with a transfer to the airport and a flight to Bhutan. Depending on the clarity of the weather and your flight path into Paro (2,280m), you may be met with an awe-inspiring view of the massive eastern Himalayan peaks on your way in, including Kanchenjunga (the world's third highest peak) and Chomolhari (Bhutan's holy mountain). Please note that you will be unescorted on this flight, but you will be met at Paro airport and transferred to Thimphu (2,736m), the capital of Bhutan (65 km, approximately 75 minutes). The snaking road to Thimphu follows the Pa Chu as it winds downstream to its confluence with the Wang Chu, then up the valley to Thimphu. After settling in, there will be a briefing given by the tour leader in the late afternoon, a great opportunity to meet any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure. Thimphu is a compact town that occupies both sides of the Thimphu Valley, bisected in the middle by the Thimphu Chu River. Time permitting, you will visit the King Jigme Dorji Memorial Chorten (built in 1974 in memory of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk), and take an orientation walk along the main street. If there is not enough time today, you will do this tomorrow.
Accommodation
  • Ramada Valley or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
Travel in Bhutan is strictly controlled and to do any independent travel outside of a group tour is extremely difficult and expensive to arrange. We provide a group visa for travellers on our tours in Bhutan, which stipulates that all travellers must arrive and depart on the same days that our tour program starts and finishes. Travel outside the tour dates on independent visas is not permitted, and additional nights of accommodation cannot be booked.

After breakfast you will venture out to explore Thimphu, first driving to Buddha point (where a 51-metre-high gilded statue watches over the city) to enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the city. On your way back you will take a short hike around the small enclosure in the pine trees to spot Takin, the national animal of Bhutan – a unique goat-antelope creature. The next stop is the Zilukha Nunnery in Drubthob Goemba. You will then pass the vast white, red and gold Tashicho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion), located on the right bank of Thimphu Chhu. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (Bhutan's supreme leader in the first half of the 17th century) built the current structure in 1641, however the original building dates back to 1216. To this day the Dzong (which means fortress-monastery) serves as the seat of the government and home to about 300 monks during summer. You can then enjoy some free time in town for your own exploration. Sites to uncover in the capital include the National Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum, and the Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu, an institution where children receive formal education in the art of traditional painting, sculpture, and woodcarving. Thimphu has an excellent range of handicrafts, most notably woven cloth, wooden masks, thangkas, silverware, jewellery, and bamboo crafts that come from all over Bhutan.
Accommodation
  • Ramada Valley or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Thimpu - Folk & Heritage Museum
  • Thimpu - National Library
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Please note we are not permitted to visit the Dzong before 5 pm Monday–Friday; during holidays and weekends visits are permitted between 9 am–5 pm.

This morning, travel out the castle-monastery of Simtokha Dzong, the first built by Zhabdrung (in AD1629) and said to guard against a demon that escaped into the nearby rock. Next, climb the winding Dochula pass (3100 m) through beautiful tropical forest and sparse villages. The pass is marked by 108 chortens or stupas – built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers killed fighting Indian insurgents in 2003 – and gardens of colourful prayer flags. On the clear day you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Eastern Himalaya, including Gangkhar Puensum, perhaps the world’s highest unclimbed mountain. The scenic Punakha Valley is drained by the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu (meaning 'Father' and 'Mother' Rivers) which enjoys a temperate climate which is ideal for farming. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1966. Here you’ll visit the white-walled, red-roofed Punakha Dzong, the administrative and religious centre and winter retreat of His Holiness, Je Khenpo – the chief abbot of Bhutan. This six-storey high monastery is one of the largest dzongs in Bhutan. Construction began in 1637, although sections of it have been restored after floods in 1994. The Dzong boasts intricately carved woodwork, prayer halls and beautiful religious paintings on walls and doorways.
Accommodation
  • Punakha Zhingkham Resort or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang
  • Punakha - Punakha Dzong
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.

Begin the day with a short 30-minute drive from the Punkha Dzong to the base of a hill where a ridge-top monastery sits. In this almost sub-tropical valley, begin a hike at a suspension bridge that crosses the Mo Chu river and cross through paddy fields before starting to climb a moderately inclined trail to the Kahmsum Yulley temple. This temple was built by the Queen Mother, Ashi Tsherin Yangdon Wangchuck, and is dedicated to the well being of Bhutan. It’s a classic example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions, and is the only one its kind in the world. It takes approximately 1 hour from the car park to hike up to the temple, and 30 minutes to descend. From the top you can take in sweeping views across the valley. Today there’s also the option to take a short walk to the Chimi Lhakhang – The Temple of Fertility. People from all corners of the country visit the Lhakhang to seek a blessing from Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the ‘Divine Madman’. A revered womaniser and drinker, this wandering preacher taught that sexual freedom was at the centre of Truth. On a 15-minute walk through the village of Sopsokha to the temple you will notice the phallic symbols painted on walls, a symbol of fertility and protection from evil. You can end the day at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Temple and nunnery, where you’ll arrive in time for evening prayers at 6 pm. The magnificent gleaming structure sits perched on a ridge amid pine trees and overlooks the valleys of Toebesa, Punakha and Wangduephodrang.
Accommodation
  • Punakha Zhingkham Resort or Similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Today you will travel to one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan – the Haa Valley. This area only opened to tourism in 2002 and has one of the strongest auras of stepping into the past, in a country that already feels lost in time. The surroundings mountains push up against the northern Indian state of Sikkim and the south of Tibet, and they are as wild, uninhabited, and unexplored as anywhere in the world. You will take a 170 km, 5–7 hour drive from Punakha to Haa, travelling down the spectacular Cheli La Pass (3990 m). This pass through dense spruce and larch forests has incredible mountain views as it zigzags down into the valley. Look out for the surrounding peaks and views of the Haa and Paro valleys. Continue down into the attractive little town of Haa, with traditional two storey wooden shops and a sprawling collection of buildings around a central dzong used by the Indian army. When you arrive, relax and take a walk around the town to meet the friendly local people. Tonight there’s the option to taste local dishes with dinner at a nearby farmhouse.
Accommodation
  • Risum Resort or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Enjoy a full day of exploration in this culturally rich valley, which is also known for being the ancestral home of the Royal grandmother. The two most important temples here are the seventh century Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple), which sit at the foothills of a group of hills known as Meri Puensum. Legend has it that King Songtsen Gampo released a black and a white pigeon to select sites to build the temples, which act as guardian sentinels keeping watch over the southern entrance to the valley. Travel back towards the Cheli La Pass, which is decorated with thousands of prayer flags, and have a picnic lunch in the surrounding pine tress. As you climb the hill towards the north of the pass – out of blue pine and rhododendron forest into windswept highlands – the mountain tops will appear one by one, revealing Himalayan peaks such as the Jhomolhari (7314 m), Jichu Drake (6794 m) and world’s third highest mountain Kangchenjunga (8586 m) located in Sikkim. A variety of birds can be also be seen and heard in the mountain landscape. You will then take a 45-minute hike through primeval forest from the road to Kila Goemba, one of the oldest Nunneries in Bhutan. The building almost to seems to suspend in mid air from the rock face, and it’s home to around 60 hardy nuns. If there’s time, perhaps practice some meditation in this place that’s been a spiritual retreat since the ninth century. Return down into the valley and back to Haa for the night.
Accommodation
  • Risum Resort or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Retrace the drive up the spectacular Cheli La Pass and return to Paro (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival in Paro, visit the impressive Ta Dzong, a 17th century watchtower above the Paro Dzong that now houses the National Museum. It features an excellent collection of Bhutanese antiquities and treasures (including the King's famous 'dragon hat), an interesting assortment of costumes from the different regions of Bhutan, and a wonderful collection of painted and embroidered Thangkas (religious pictures). To discover more of the local history then the ruined Drukgyal Dzong, located 18 kilometres from the city, is a great place to explore. Built in the 17th century by the great Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, father and unifier of medieval Bhutan, the Dzong was burnt down by an accidental fire in 1950s. It was never rebuilt, left in ruins as an evocative reminder of the great victories it was built to commemorate. Explore the ramparts and relive the memories of a glorious past. This afternoon we will enjoy a traditional meal at Tshering Farm House. Try your hand at Bhutan's national sport with an archery lesson.
Accommodation
  • Tashi Namgay Resort (Feature Stay) or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Paro - Tadzong Museum & Trongsa Dzong
  • Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

After an early breakfast, prepare to hike to the legendary Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), a magnificent monastery, clinging on a rock cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. The legend, dating back to AD747, says that the Great Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhawa) flew here from northeast Bhutan on the back of a tigress to subdue the demons of Paro Valley. The guru then meditated in the holy cave that is the site of the Pelphug Lhakhang today. According to Tantric Buddhist mythology, the vanquished local deities became the protectors of the dharma and one of them, Singey Samdrup, is recognised today as the guardian deity of Taktsang. Guru Rinpoche is also believed to have concealed among the rocks of Taktsang various forms of Dharma treasures known as Ters, which were destined to be discovered later by Tertons (treasure discoverers) for the propagation of Dharma. Taktsang was severely damaged by fire in 1998 but the King commanded its immediate restoration. The royal command dictated that the original aura, authenticity and architectural splendour must be preserved at all costs. This project has been widely seen as an act of devotion involving all sections of Bhutanese society and as homage to the nation's cultural heritage. It also proved to be an opportunity for Bhutan's traditional artists and craftsmen to hone the skills inherited from their forefathers down the ages. You’ll hike through lush pine forest beneath thousands of brightly coloured prayer flags up into the mountains for a closer view of the temple. After approximately an hour’s walking, you’ll reach a small teahouse that has a wonderful panoramic view of the temple. You’ll take a refreshments and lunch break here. For those interested, it is possible to get a closer view by hiking another 45 minutes to an hour (each direction) to reach the small chorten directly across from the temple. Anyone not interested in hiking any further can relax at the teahouse and enjoy the view. Back in Paro, celebrate this Bhutan discovery with one final meal together.
Accommodation
  • Tashi Namgay Resort (Feature Stay) or Similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Todays hike is quite challenging and good quality, comfortable shoes/sneakers are required. Please remember to drink lots of water and wear layers as it gets quite cold. Don't forget a sunhat. Remember you are at 3120 metres above sea level so take your time.

In total it will take approximately 5–6 hours to return to the car park, including all stops, if you choose to walk the full way.

After breakfast your driver and tour leader will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Please note that your departure flight is not included as part of the trip and must be booked separately.
Included Activities
  • Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
In order to confirm your Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer, please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

18 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners

Transport

Bus, Minibus

Accommodation

Comfortable Hotel (15 nights), Jungle Lodge Feature Stay (2 nights), Paro Heritage Lodge Feature Stay (2 nights)

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight
  • Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
  • Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa
  • Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
  • Bhaktapur - Changu Narayan Temple
  • Lumbini - Heritage Park
  • Chitwan NP - Village tour
  • Chitwan - Canoe safari, bird watching walk or jeep safari
  • Thimpu - Folk & Heritage Museum
  • Thimpu - National Library
  • Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang
  • Punakha - Punakha Dzong
  • Paro - Tadzong Museum & Trongsa Dzong
  • Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
  • Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Essence of Nepal & Bhutan trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. Complimentary airport arrival and departure transfers are included. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
3. Entry to Bhutan is very strict and travellers can only enter Bhutan on a group visa as part of a tour. All travellers must arrive on Day 12 and depart on Day 20 to be eligible for a group visa. At time of booking, please provide your booking agent with a clear uncut scanned colour copy of the two pages of the personal details section of your passport. Bhutan Immigration is extremely strict. If one passport scan fails to meet their requirements the whole group’s visa will be rejected, thus delaying the process significantly.
4. Please be aware that Bhutan's airlines are renowned for last minute changes to flight timetables into and out of Bhutan. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours transit time before and after your flights into and out of Bhutan. Timetables are available on the Druk Airlines and Air Bhutan websites.
5. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance for domestic flights is 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. The international flight between Nepal and Bhutan has a luggage allowance of 20kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. While in Nepal, you can store excess luggage at the Kathmandu hotel.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

View Essential Trip Information

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