18 days tour

Nepal & Bhutan Journey

Nepal & Bhutan Journey

This tour includes:

Transport

Private vehicle,Plane LUGGAGE LIMITS: Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits - 10kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged at your own expense. TRAVEL BETWEEN KATHMANDU : & POKHARA: On itineraries that include road travel between these destinations, past travellers have often decided to fly this route independently to avoid the long overland journey (200km, approx 6+ hours). The flight takes around 35mins. Should you decide to fly, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for road travel available. ROAD TRAVEL: Roadworks and infrastructure projects can cause significant delays on major roads within cities and highways between destinations. Road travel can also be disrupted due to demonstrations and bandhs (strikes) without warning. Major roadworks are currently ongoing in and around Kathmandu and the roads to Chitwan National Park. Delays, heavy traffic, poor road conditions and dust are a reality of road travel in Nepal. MONSOON: The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice. BHUTAN: Whilst there are approx 8000km of roads in Bhutan, the quality varies greatly depending on proximity to the major towns of Thimpu and Paro. As such, even short distances can take longer than expected. Bhutan is currently upgrading a lot of its road network and delays are common. Roads are narrow and speeds are slow. Landslides are common, particularly after rain and occasionally trips are diverted due to debris blocking roads. Thimpu is also famous as the worlds only capital city without a traffic light.

Meals

17 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners

Others

Included activities Kathmandu - Everest Scenic Flight Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu - Bodhnath Stupa Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip Pokhara - Peace Pagoda Pokhara - International Mountain Museum Chitwan - Canoe safari, Bird Watching walk or Jeep safari Bhaktapur - Guided walk Thimphu - Choki Traditional Art School Thimphu - National Memorial Chorten Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang Punakha - Punakha Dzong Paro - Taktsang (Tigerโ€™s Nest) Monastery hike

Guide

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if weโ€™re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isnโ€™t always possible which means we wonโ€™t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. Hotel (12 nights),Guesthouse (3 nights),Lodge (2 nights)

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (https://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Flights

International flights are not included

Others

Other activities and services not included

Optional

Other activities and services not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Nepal & Bhutan Journey

  • Day 1 Day 1: Kathmandu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Kathmandu

      Welcome to Nepal. Arrive in Kathmandu and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where youโ€™ll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmanduโ€™s fine Nepali restaurants.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 2 Day 2: Kathmandu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Kathmandu

      Weather permitting, take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morning, you will explore Kathmandu, visiting 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. Perhaps head to Durbar Square, in front of the old royal palace and home to numerous beautiful temples, and browse the stalls of merchantโ€™s wares.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 3 Day 3: Pokhara
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Pokhara

      Today you will have an early departure from the hotel for your transfer to the domestic terminal at Kathmanduโ€™s Tribhuvan Airport. From here you will fly to Pokhara. There are often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to the north on this flight. On arrival, you will take a boat ride across the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. Visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You will also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions โ€“ some ending in triumph, some ending in tragedy.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 4 Day 4: Pokhara
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Pokhara

      Enjoy a free day for further exploration in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. With an elaborate Hindu temple, Buddhist monastery and bazaar to visit, youโ€™ll find plenty to keep you occupied. Or you may like to relax at a restaurant by the lake - in clear weather the views at sunrise and sunset are fantastic.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 5 Day 5: Bandipur
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Bandipur

      Today youโ€™ll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the countryโ€™s true hidden gems. Bandipur was once an important stop for traders travelling to Tibet and the single main street of the town is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. The town is quieter than during its trading days and certainly quieter than current day Kathmandu, so enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.

      Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 6 Day 6: Bandipur
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Bandipur

      Enjoy a day of free time to further explore Bandipur. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages, verdant forests, โ€™power placesโ€™, and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the townโ€™s temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.

      Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 7 Day 7: Chitwan National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Chitwan National Park

      After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you will be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the activities program. There is some flexibility, and activities may vary depending on the time of year and on wildlife movements. A late-afternoon safari will take you through forests and across grasslands to observe the varied and exciting wildlife in the park. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You will then enjoy dinner and afterward, you will be free to relax in the bar and discuss the dayโ€™s sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.

      Accommodation: Lodge

  • Day 8 Day 8: Chitwan National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Chitwan National Park

      Embark on an early-morning excursion. This could include either another safari to different parts of the park (in search of the great Indian rhino, deer, and exotic birdlife) or joining one of the other activities available in the park. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but these magnificent animals do inhabit the park. After breakfast, you will leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to view marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.

      Accommodation: Lodge

  • Day 9 Day 9: Bhaktapur
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Bhaktapur

      If you are an avid wildlife lover, there is an optional early-morning birdwatching safari available today โ€“ a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast fly to Kathmandu and drive to Bhaktapur - once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples, and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.

      Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 10 Day 10: Kathmandu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Kathmandu

      Spend the day exploring Bhaktapurโ€™s famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is reputed to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. You will also visit the Pashupati Temple, a replica of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. This will be an enlightening morning of discovery and enrichment, as you delve into all Bhaktapur has to offer. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu. The evening is yours to spend as you wish - your group may like to head out for an optional dinner to celebrate the wonderful time youโ€™ve spent together in Nepal.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 11 Day 11: Kathmandu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Kathmandu

      Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. You may like to explore the Thamel Market, perusing the eclectic shops and stopping for tea and people-watching. A language, craft or cooking class at Seven Women, a local social enterprise, is also a wonderful way to understand more about Nepal and its people. Your leader can make recommendations to suit your interests or assist you in arranging any sightseeing you might wish to do today.

  • Day 12 Day 12: Paro - Thimphu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Paro - Thimphu

      This morning board a short flight to Bhutan, you will be unescorted on this flight. Ask to sit on the left-hand side of the plane for the best views of the Himalayas. After arriving at Paro Airport and making your way through immigration and customs formalities, you will be greeted by your guide and driver and warmly welcomed to the enchanting Land of the Thunder Dragon. Drive alongside mountains, rivers, and fields of red rice to Thimphu, Bhutanโ€™s capital city. If you arrive in the morning, youโ€™ll have lunch and then head out for some sightseeing. Stop in at the Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory, Bhutanโ€™s most famous traditional incense maker, as well as the colourful Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre. If you arrive in the afternoon, youโ€™ll meet the rest of your group in the evening for a welcome meeting before heading out together for dinner. Take an evening wander through the fascinating streets of Thimphu, the worldโ€™s only capital city without a traffic light!

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 13 Day 13: Thimphu
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Thimphu

      Today begins with a pleasant walk that meanders gently up the valley through paddy fields, pristine woodlands, and a Tibetan village, a trail that continues uphill (1 hour) to the Cheri Dorji Dhen monastery โ€“ built in 1620 by Shabdrung, the first ruler of Bhutan. Back in Thimphu, stop to enjoy the incredible views from the Buddha Dordenma before visiting Simply Bhutan, a living museum where you can explore the traditional homes and lifestyles of the Bhutanese. You may like to try your hand at archery, Bhutanโ€™s national sport. Stop by the National Memorial Chorten โ€“ many Thimphu residents consider this to be the heart and soul of the city and gather here every day to pray and walk clockwise around the chorten. Afterward, visit a local institute where students become masters of Bhutanโ€™s 13 national arts and crafts - from carpentry and masonry to paper making and embroidery. The incredible National Textile Museum is a great way to learn more about the history of craft in Bhutan and if youโ€™re in the mood for a spot of shopping, the National Handicrafts Emporium offers high-quality traditional goods and a small family-run enterprise that manufactures paper and paper products using traditional methods.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 14 Day 14: Punakha
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Punakha

      This morning, drive to Punakha โ€“ the ancient winter capital of Bhutan. Stop at Dochula Pass for a breathtaking view of the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutanโ€™s highest mountain, the majestic Gangkhar Puensum. Continue the journey before taking another break. Enjoy a short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple built in 1499 by lama Ngawang Chogyel. Arrive in Punakha for a good nightโ€™s rest before another day of exploration tomorrow.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 15 Day 15: Punakha
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 15: Punakha

      After breakfast we head out on a short hike (1.5 hours) to Khamsum Yulley Monastery โ€“ an elaborately decorated chorten, built to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and harmony to all living things. As with many monasteries in Bhutan, your leader may need to hunt around for the caretaker with the keys to have a look inside! Afterwards, head down to the convergence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers, two of the main rivers of Bhutan, and admire breathtaking views of the majestic Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in the country, as well as the cantilever bridge that spans across the river. Drive up to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and take in the serenity and the views of this mountaintop site. Return to Punakha for the evening.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 16 Day 16: Paro
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 16: Paro

      This morning head back over the Dochula Pass and continue to Thimphu. The roads in Bhutan are narrow, and while the distances donโ€™t appear to be very far, due to the nature of the roads and the many valleys they pass through, travelling can take some time โ€“ so this is a good chance to relax and enjoy the passing scenery. After lunch continue into the Paro Valley, stretching your legs with an optional wander around town on arrival. Get a good nightโ€™s sleep tonight as tomorrow will be an active and exciting day!

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 17 Day 17: Paro / Tigerโ€™S Nest Monastery
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 17: Paro / Tigerโ€™S Nest Monastery

      After an early breakfast followed by a short drive, prepare for your hike to see the legendary Taktsang (Tigerโ€™s Nest) โ€“ a magnificent monastery, clinging on a rock cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. After approximately 1 hour ascending the mountainside, reach a small teahouse that has a wonderful panoramic view of the temple and the ideal place to enjoy lunch. For those interested, itโ€™s possible to get a closer view by hiking another 45 minutes to 1 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. In the evening, after returning to Paro, experience Bhutanese hospitality and a taste of tradition with a home-cooked meal at a local farmhouse. Soak up the friendly atmosphere and consider taking an optional hot stone bath. A great way to relax after your hiking, this bath is a form of traditional Bhutanese medicine where fresh river water is mixed with local herbs and heated with fire-roasted river stones. A soak in these soothing waters is bound to revive and relax you.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 18 Day 18: Paro
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 18: Paro

      Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a departure transfer to Paro airport for your flight out of Bhutan.

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโ€™re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 15 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

Select a country to define if the visa is required