14-Day Nepal-Bhutan Highlights Tour

Welcome to Kathmandu, Nepal! As you arrive, an Asian Heritage Treks & Travel representative will welcome you at the airport with your nameplate. Then, you will be transferred to the hotel. On the way to the hotel, before you reach Thamel, you will pass by the Open Cremation Place (Pashupatinath Temple), the Royal Palace Museum, i.e., Narayanhity, and the Garden of Dreams. Your hotel will be downtown at the tourist hub. Our representative will facilitate and discuss your travel itinerary. There will be enough time to stroll through the streets of Thamel.

Includes: private transport and an overnight stay at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel.

After breakfast, join our guide on an interesting journey to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO Heritage Site with complexly carved temples. From there, head to Swyambhunath for a stunning panoramic view of Kathmandu. Explore the revered Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, and then continue to the nearby Guweyswori Temple. Finish your cultural journey with a visit to the ancient Boudhanath Stupa, an iconic Buddhist monument dating back to 600 A.D.

After a day of breathtaking sightseeing, return to your hotel for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

Includes: breakfast, an overnight stay at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, and heritage sites’ entrance fees.

Arrive at Paro Airport and then drive to the capital city, Thimphu. Altitude: 2320 m (7656 ft) above sea level. The flight into the Himalayas reveals scenic and breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains around the world. If weather permits, you will be able to see Mt. Everest (8848m, 29,198ft) and other Himalayan mountain ranges. After checking into the hotel later, your representative from the agency will greet you on arrival and drive you to the capital city, Thimphu.

On the way to Thimphu, visit Tamchhog Lhakhang, which is located on the opposite side of the river. Thang Tong Gyalpo, who was responsible for building numerous iron bridges throughout Bhutan, also built Tamchhog Lhakhang. Kuenselcholing View Point: A place from which you can get a good overview of the Thimphu Valley is Buddha Point. It is again a short drive from the town. You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country. Later, walk around and take a glimpse of the valley.

Memorial Chorten: This particular chorten was constructed in 1974 as a memorial for the third King of the country, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. He is widely regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. Tashichho Dzong: The name means Fortress of Glorious Religion. It was Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who built this temple in 1641. It houses the secretariat building, the throne room, the office of the king, and the central monk body. Later, relax for the day and stroll around the city.

Includes: breakfast, dinner, international air fares, an overnight stay at a hotel in Thimpu, private transport, and an English-speaking tour guide.

In the early morning, take an hour-long hike to Cheri Monastery (which includes Dodina and Jigme Dorji Wild Life Sanctuary). Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built this monastery in 1620 and established the first monk body here. A chance to spot birds such as Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, Yellow-browed Tit, Yellow-rumped Honey Guide, Long-billed Thrush, and Ultramarine Flycatcher.

Paper factory: The handmade paper making in Bhutan stems from an age-old tradition that originated in the 8th century of Bhutanese history. The handmade paper constitutes a valuable national heritage of Bhutanese cultural identity and has been preserved through all the ages. The traditional paper is recognized and held in high esteem both within the country and abroad.

The weekend market: Held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the people crowd the stalls every day, dressed in full color, and gather to meet and barter, much like the street markets in London!

Bhutan Craft Bazaar: The private stalls offered a diverse range of high-quality products sourced from various regions of the country. These included bags, wooden and clay utensils, Bangchung, Dhapa, jewelry boxes, bookmarks, handmade packing papers in various patterns, and antique items. The stalls have a distinctly rich outlook with fine tones of elegance and a warm and inviting atmosphere. The craft bazaar is also an exemplary example of how bamboo can be used to construct houses in the country. Later, you can stroll around the city.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an overnight stay at a hotel in Thimpu, private transport, an entrance fee, and an English-speaking tour guide.

As we drive towards Gangtey, we encounter Dochula Pass (3140m, 10362ft), offering a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range, especially on clear winter days. Built by Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, the Druk Wangyal Chortens further enhance the beauty of this place.

In the mountains east of Wangdue Phodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, on the slopes of which is situated the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. The village of Phobjikha lies a few kilometers down from the monastery, on the valley floor. This quiet, remote valley is the winter home of black-necked cranes, which migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north to pass the winter months in a milder climate.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an overnight stay at a hotel in Gangtey, private transport, an entrance fee, and an English-speaking tour guide.

Morning visit to Gangtey Goemba: In the mountains east of Wangdue Phodrang lies the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, on the slopes of which is situated the great monastery of Gangtey, established in the 17th century. The village of Phobjikha lies a few kilometers down from the monastery, on the valley floor. Black-necked cranes spend the winter in this quiet, remote valley. The birds migrate from the arid plains of Tibet in the north to spend the winter in a warmer climate.

Hike to Chimi Lhakhang (the Temple of Fertility): This temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley (the Divine Madman) in 1499. It is about a thirty-minute hike across fields from the road. Wooden phalluses are often found hanging in the four corners of houses and also painted on the walls. It is a common belief that this helps drive away evil spirits. (30-minute hike to and fro, gentle, steep, good foot path across the valleys and villages).

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an overnight stay at a hotel in Punakha, private transport, an entrance fee, and an English-speaking tour guide.

In the morning, visit Punakha Dzong (fortress): Built in 1637 by Zhabdrung, it is remarkably located between the rivers Mo (female) Chu and Pho (male) Chu. Until the reign of the second king, it served as the king’s seat.

Later, drive to Paro and visit Rimpung Dzong. Bhutanese Dzongs are massive architectural achievements that serve various purposes throughout the country, including administrative centers, monasteries, and temples. Despite their various functions, they are carefully designed with striking beauty and thoughtful design. The Rimpung Dzong, known as the ‘fortress of the heap of jewels,’ stands majestically in the picturesque Paro Valley. Built in 1644 during the time of the dynamic spiritual and political leader Zhabdrung, it is a testament to Bhutan’s rich history. Once a year, as part of the Tsechu festival, one of the oldest Thongdol (gigantic scroll paintings) is ceremonially unfurled here.

Kichu Lhakhang (monastery): It is one of the two most sacred and oldest temples in Bhutan. Songtsen Gampo, the Tibetan King, built it in the 7th century.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an overnight stay at a hotel in Paro, private transport, an entrance fee, and an English-speaking tour guide.

Morning hike to Taktshang Monastery (the Tiger’s Nest): This is Bhutan’s most recognizable cultural icon, perched 800 m (2640 ft) up a seemingly sheer cliff. Although a tragic and mysterious fire consumed it in April 1998, it has since been restored to its former glory. It is believed that in the 8th century, the great tantric master Guru Rimpochhe (2nd Buddha) flew on the back of a tigress to the site where the monastery now stands. If you prefer to ride a horse, it will cost an extra $25 per person.

Visit the Farmhouse: Picturesque farm houses dot the valley among fields and hillsides. We welcome you to enjoy the hospitality of the Paro farmers. Thrill yourself as the farmers welcome you to their homes with genuine smiles. The two- to three-story Bhutanese farm houses are handsome in appearance, with fully decorated outer walls and lintels, and are traditionally built. A visit to a farm house gives an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle of a farming family. If you decide to take a hot stone bath in the farm house, it will cost an extra $25 per person. Later, stroll around the town and see how the locals live.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and overnight stay at a hotel in Paro, private transport, an entrance fee, and an English-speaking tour guide.

In the morning, after breakfast, you will fly to Kathmandu. You can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains from the window seat. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our guide will assist you. Your flight onward to Pokhara will then be managed, and shortly you will be flying to the beautiful city of Pokhara. You then check in at the hotel and can also stroll around the streets of Pokhara.

Includes: breakfast, international and domestic air fares, private transport, and an overnight stay at Hotel Shaara or a similar hotel in Pokhara.

Today, you will start off with an early drive to Sarangkot to capture the tranquil and magical view of the city before sunrise. You will see the first rays of sunlight hitting the mountains in the background. Sarangkot offers panoramic views of Annapurna, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and other mountains. Head back to the hotel and have breakfast.

Onwards, you will be visiting the World Peace Stupa, which is almost an hour away from Pokhara and lies on the top of the hill. When you reach the top of the hill, you will get to see the spectacular panoramic views of the mountains on your north and west sides. Annapurna, Nilgiri, the Glacier Dome, Fishtail Mountain, and the Dhaulagiri mountain ranges can be seen from this place. When you finish enjoying this view, you will visit Devi’s Fall, Gupteswor Cave, Seti George, Mahendra Cave, and Barahi Temple, situated at the center of Phewa Lake. After completing your sightseeing, get back to the hotel and take a rest.

Includes: breakfast, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, an entrance fee, and an overnight stay at Hotel Shaara or a similar hotel in Pokhara.

After a filling breakfast, you will embark on a scenic private transport drive to the enchanting city of Chitwan. The journey will take you through picturesque landscapes, with the majestic Himalayas as your backdrop. Upon arrival in Chitwan, you’ll check into your comfortable hotel, where you can unwind and rejuvenate after the road trip. Take in the breathtaking views of the banks of the Rapti River. Our tour representative will provide a short briefing on the program.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, and an overnight stay at Rain Forest Resort or a similar one.

Start your full-day sightseeing tour. You’ll embark on a jungle safari by Jeep. Enter the community forest section to observe the one-horned rhino and various other wild animals like wild boar, deer, and leopard.

Afterward, cross the Rapti River to reach the outskirts of the main national park area. If luck is on your side, you might even spot the Royal Bengal Tiger in the highland area, where the bushes can reach up to 6 feet. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to witness wild elephants and other fascinating creatures.

Once you’ve completed your jungle safari, return to the hotel for lunch. Later, take a guided tour of the Tharu village and enjoy a canoeing adventure on the Rapti River. Here, you can observe the Marsh Mugger and Gharial crocodiles resting by the banks of the Rapti River in Chitwan.

Includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, an entrance fee, and an overnight stay at Rain Forest Resort or a similar one.

Today we shall drive back to Kathmandu. Later on, you can stroll through the streets of Thamel. You can buy gifts as a token of love for your friends and family. You can also rest in the hotel and pack your bags, as this is the last day before you leave for your destination the following day. This marks the end of the Nepal-Bhutan Highlights Tour.

Includes: breakfast, private transport, an English-speaking tour guide, and an overnight stay at Yatri Suites and Spa or a similar hotel.

Your trip will come to an end today. Our representative will pick you up with a private van and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your scheduled flight back to your home or other destination.

Have a safe journey onward, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.

Includes: breakfast, private transport.