Discover Bhutan & Nepal: 11-Day Odyssey

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Highlights

Explore vibrant Kathmandu, iconic Bhutanese landmarks, and scenic valleys on an 11-day journey.Experience Nepalese and Bhutanese cultures, history, and natural beauty.

Kathmandu, Paro, Thimphu, Punakha

Private Tour

11 Days

EASY

English

Description

Bhutan is no ordinary place.It is the last great Himalayan kingdom, shrouded in mystery and magic, where a traditional Buddhist culture carefully embraces global developments.Firstly, there is the amazing Himalayan landscape, where snow-capped peaks rise above shadowy gorges cloaked in primeval forests.Taking up prime positions in this picture-book landscape are the majestic fortress-like dzongs and monasteries.This unique architecture sets the stage for spectacular tsechus (dance festivals) attended by an almost medieval-looking audience.Then there are the textiles and handicrafts, outrageous archery competitions, high-altitude trekking trails, and stunning flora and fauna.If it's not 'Shangri La', it's as close as it gets.

The tour covers UNESCO listed World Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley which includes Pashupatinath temple , Boudanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa and Kathmandu Durbar Square.

Itinerary

Discover Bhutan & Nepal: 11-Day Odyssey
Day 11 :

Day 1: Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport
Our Airport representative assists you at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to hotel and rest of time leisure activities.
Meals not included
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 2: Guided sightseeing Kathmandu Valley
After breakfast our tour guide will assists you at your hotel and take a drive to UNESCO listed World heritage sites of Kathmandu valley which includes: Swayambhunath Stupa(Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square(home of living goddess Kumari), Pashupatinath temple (ancient temple and holy place of Hindu and Buddhist followers), Boudanath Stupa (ancient Buddhist Stupa)
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 3: Arrival Paro – Thimphu (1.5 Hr)
Early morning flight to Paro, Bhutan (Please check the flight timing).The flight from Delhi/Kathmandu is considered as one of the most scenic flight offering the view of the world’s top ten highest peaks.Upon your arrival in Paro airport our guide will be there to welcome you and transfer to Thimphu.After Lunch visit the Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd King.This place now happens to be a get together point for the elderly people, who spend their whole day chanting prayers and meeting their friends.Visit Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the valley offering a beautiful view of the valley.Enclosure where the national animal, Takins are kept and drive to visit the largest and the newly built statue of Buddha offering magnificent view of entire Thimphu valley.After 5 PM, visit the fortress of Thimphu, Tashichho Dzong, which houses the throne of the king.Evening walk around the happening town, the largest and the most crowded town in Bhutan.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha (3 Hrs)
Morning visit the happening weekend market (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) where the locals from the surrounding villages come to sell their produce.They sell their goods and in
return they buy their basic necessities.In olden days, bata system was practiced by everyone.Visit the traditional Hand Made Paper Mill.Visit the School of Arts and Crafts where students learn 13 different arts used predominantly in Bhutan.Visit Folk Heritage Museum which explains how a traditional house used to be like in the olden days.Later visit the National Library which houses the collection of Bhutanese rich religious text and the contemporary Buddhism teachings from master all around the world.Drive further up to visit the Dechenphodrang monastic school and meet the young monks.Later continue to Zilukha nunnery to meet the nuns and interact with them.Lunch in the town and drive to Punakha crossing over Dochula pass (3200 mts).If the weather permits one can enjoy a spectacular breath taking view of the highest mountain peaks of Bhutan at a sight that stretches almost 180 degrees.Take a break and walk around the newly built 108 stupas and continue to the sub tropical valley of Punakha offering a different vegetation.En route just before arriving the hotel, taka a nice hike through the paddy field and old village to visit Chimi Lakhang, the temple of fertility associated with religious art of phallus.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 5: Punakha Sightseeing
Morning drive to visit Punakha Dzong (fortress), which houses the most elaborated temple in the country.This is a must to see fortress in Bhutan and a fine example of
Bhutanese rich Art and Architecture.After the visit if you are in mood for a nice half-day hike, you could start the hike right above the Dzong with a short steep climb offering a great view of the valley with houses spread all around and the never ending turquoise river and it’s sandy river bed.This trail is also popular for mountain biking.The hike ends through the farm field crossing the newly constructed bridge, where your car will be waiting at the other side of the river.If you choose the entire activity can be done on foot from your hotel.After lunch could relax in the balcony of the hotel to enjoy the view and the nature.Or could go for an hour hike (uphill) to the temple of Khamsum
Yuley Lakhang overlooking the paddy field and the snakelike river bends.If you are bit tired, could also drive for a short while towards Wangdi province and stop for a short hike to the ancient village of Rinchengang overlooking the ruins of Wangdi Dzong.It’s amazing how they have managed to be together with and preserve the old houses.Later back to the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 6: Punakha – Paro (4.5 Hrs.)
If you are staying in hotel Meri Puensum, hotel Zandopelri or hotel Densa, early morning it will be a treat to walk up to the hilltop to visit the nunnery and interact with the nuns and enjoy the magnificent view of Punakha and Wangdi valley.Later after breakfast retrace your drive back to Paro.En route could stop in Thimphu for lunch.After lunch could continue some of the sightseeing that you might have had missed earlier.Later in the afternoon continue your drive to Paro.Upon arrival in Paro, relax in the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 7: Paro Sightseeing
Morning drive to Chelela Pass, 3800m one of the highest motorable road in Bhutan.If the weather permits one can view the most scared and the highest mountain peak in the country Mt.Jomolhari (7314m) overlooking at you.Walk around the pass with prayer flag fluttering and enjoy the fresh air.Afternoon back to the hotel.Later visit Paro Dzong (Fortress) on foot and continue walking through the oldest wooden bridge still in use.Continue further to stroll around the old Paro town and peep into some local handicrafts [sensitive content]uld get some opportunity to see the traditional game, Archery match going on.Evening back to the hotel.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 8: Paro Sightseeing
Morning drive to the base for the hike (3 hrs uphill) to Tiger’s Nest, the most revered temple in the country that literally hangs on a granite cliff over looking the Paro valley.Most of the day will go on the hike.On the way back, if you have the energy and time visit the Kichu Lakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan which marks the beginning of Buddhism in the country.Hot stone bath available at an additional cost.Farewell dinner with your guide.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 9: Departure and arrival at Kathmandu
Morning transfer (15 mins) to the airport for your departure flight.Your guide will bid you farewell at the airport.Pick up at Kathmandu Airport and transfer to Hotel.
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 10: Kathmandu free and Farewell dinner
The day is free for you.You can explore Kathmandu on your own or go for shopping.You can also book Massage and Ayurveda Treatment with us.At evening farewell dinner at Typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural show and overnight at hotel overnight at hotel
Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation included: Overnight at Hotel
Day 11: Departure
Our tour guide will assists you at your hotel and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation not included

What's Included

Bhutan Visa Fees

Accommodation in 3 star hotels (Twin Sharing Basis)

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner in Bhutan tour

Licensed English speaking Tour Guide

All Sightseeing

Air Fare KTM – Paro – KTM

Accommodation in BB basis in Kathmandu

Farewell Nepali dinner with cultural show

What's Excluded

Personal Expenses (Porter, Laundry and Telephone Fee)

Travel & Medical Insurance

Nepal visa fee

International flight to Kathmandu

Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

What To Bring

When traveling to Bhutan and Nepal, it's essential to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.Here's a list of things that would be nice to have:

Clothing:

Warm layers: Bhutan can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so pack warm clothing like fleeces, sweaters, and light jackets.

Comfortable hiking boots: Good quality hiking boots are a must for trekking in Bhutan's rugged terrain.

Umbrella or rain gear: The weather in Bhutan can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to bring a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket.

Swimwear: If you plan to visit the hot springs or take a dip in a river, bring swimwear.

Lightweight pants and tops: For warmer days or when visiting cultural sites.

Evening dress: For dinner at upscale restaurants or special occasions.

Warm socks and gloves: For colder months (December to February).

Toiletries:

Sunscreen: High SPF for protection against the strong Himalayan sun.

Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be present in some areas.

Toilet paper and hand sanitizer: Just in case, as these might not always be available.

Contact lenses and solution (if applicable): If you wear contact lenses, bring your usual brand and solution.

Prescription medication and any personal medical items: Don't forget to pack your essential medications.

Electronics and accessories:

Power bank and portable charger: For keeping your devices charged on the go.

Camera and charger: To capture stunning Himalayan landscapes and moments.

Power adapter: Bhutan uses Type D power sockets (230V, 50Hz).

Reef-safe sunscreen sticks: For easy application on-the-go.

Water bottle or hydration pack: Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle.

Miscellaneous:

Travel documents: Passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance documents.

Cash and credit cards: For incidentals, tips, and purchases.

Reusable bag or backpack: For carrying essentials during the day.

Earplugs and eye mask: For better sleep in shared accommodations.

Guidebook or map: To help navigate unfamiliar places.

Please Note

Before booking a 11-day Bhutan with Kathmandu travel package tour, here are some essential things travelers should know:

1.Bhutan's unique travel regulations: Bhutan has a unique approach to tourism.The government requires travelers to book their trips through licensed tour operators like us: Liberty Holidays, and there's a daily tariff that needs to be paid.

2.Weather and climate: Bhutan's climate varies greatly depending on the season.The best time to visit is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and clear.

3.Physical demands: Bhutanese treks can be challenging, with steep terrain and high altitudes.Travelers should ensure they're physically fit and prepared for the trip.

4.Cultural sensitivity: Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism and tradition.Travelers should respect local customs, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection.

5.Limited connectivity: Bhutan has limited internet and phone connectivity, especially in rural areas.Travelers should plan accordingly and stay connected with family and friends before departing.

6.Dress code: Bhutanese culture requires modest dress, covering knees and shoulders.Travelers should pack accordingly to avoid any cultural faux pas.

7.Visa requirements: Travelers need a visa to enter Bhutan, which can be arranged by us.

8.Insurance: Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical evacuations, as medical facilities in Bhutan may be limited.

9.Currency: The Ngultrum (Nu) is the local currency in Bhutan.Credit cards are not widely accepted, so travelers should have cash or exchange their money at designated currency exchange offices.