- 4.9/5 512 Latest reviews
- Destination: Nepal, Bhutan
- Duration: 11 Days
- Tour Type: Cultural
- Tour Style: Private & Bespoke
About This Trip
Experience the enchanting Himalayan kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan on this 11-day private journey. In Nepal, explore the historic Durbar Squares of Kathmandu and Patan, feel the serene spiritual ambiance at Boudhanath Stupa, and take a scenic boat ride on Phewa Lake, with breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. In Bhutan, visit the impressive Thimphu Dzong, the current seat of Bhutan’s government, admire the majestic Punakha Dzong, the country’s most iconic Buddhist monastery, and embark on a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery near Paro, a revered and sacred Buddhist site.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 6
Nepal
Kathmandu: Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath
Patan: Durbar Square
Pokhara: Phewa Lake Boat Ride, Sarangkot Viewpoint
7 - 11
Bhutan
Thimphu: Thimphu Dzong, National Memorial Chorten
Punakha: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Dochula Pass
Paro: Tiger's Nest, Paro Dzong, Ta Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang
Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Airport, you will be greeted by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. They will provide a short introduction and assist you with your check-in.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and enjoying some free time at your own pace.
- Kathmandu
- Day 2: Kathmandu & Patan Exploration
Get ready for an exciting and immersive day. Begin your morning at the Ason Tole Vegetable & Spice Market, where you can soak in the vibrant energy of local daily life. Then, head to Kathmandu Durbar Square to admire the exterior of the Taleju Temple and nearby Kal Bhairav.
In the afternoon, drive to Patan, the oldest city in the Kathmandu Valley. Explore Patan Durbar Square, home to numerous ancient temples and shrines renowned for their intricate carvings. As evening approaches, visit Swayambhunath Stupa atop a hill for stunning panoramic views of Kathmandu.
Optional: Weather permitting, consider taking an early morning scenic flight to get an up-close view of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
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- Kathmandu
- Day 3: Kathmandu & Bhaktapur Discovery
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Boudhanath Stupa, where the whitewashed dome and golden spire are adorned with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha. Continue to Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most revered Hindu temple, to experience its spiritual significance.
Afterwards, take a private transfer to Bhaktapur, a city known for its rich history and culture. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and then visit the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, a remarkable living museum showcasing exquisite carvings from the Licchavi era. Return to Kathmandu in the evening.
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- Kathmandu
- Day 4: Journey to Pokhara
In the morning, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your domestic flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, proceed to your hotel for check-in and spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your own pace.
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- Pokhara
- Day 5: Explore Pokhara
Enjoy a leisurely day in Pokhara, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Begin with a private boat ride on Phewa Lake, taking in the stunning scenery of the Annapurna Range.
Next, ascend to the World Peace Pagoda, which offers sweeping panoramic views of Pokhara and the lake below. Continue to visit the cascading Devi’s Fall, the mysterious Gupteswor Mahadev Cave, and the engaging exhibits at the International Mountain Museum.
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- Pokhara
- Day 6: Pokhara to Kathmandu
Rise early and head to the Sarangkot viewpoint to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
Afterward, take a flight back to Kathmandu. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed stroll through Thamel, the lively tourist district known for its shops, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere.
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- Kathmandu
- Day 7: Kathmandu to Paro – Thimphu Exploration
After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and drive you to Thimphu in a private car. Along the route, admire the Tamchog Lhakhang iron chain bridge spanning the river, and feel free to stop for photos or a short break if desired.
Once in Thimphu, check in at your hotel, then explore key landmarks including the National Memorial Chorten, the imposing Buddha Dordenma Statue, and the Takin Sanctuary. Conclude the day with a visit to the Thimphu Dzong (Tashichho Dzong), the administrative center of Bhutan’s civil government.
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- Thimphu
- Day 8: Thimphu to Punakha – Explore Punakha Dzong
Depart Thimphu and drive toward Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass along the way. Take a break and admire the 108 chortens (stupas) erected in honor of Bhutanese soldiers. On a clear day, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
Continue your journey and hike to the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple famed for its fertility blessings. Later, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, perched at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers. Cross the nearby wooden suspension bridge for a unique perspective of the fortress and its surroundings.
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- Punakha
- Day 9: Punakha to Paro – Visit Kyichu Lhakhang
Drive from Punakha to Paro, a journey of approximately four hours. Upon arrival, visit the impressive Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong, a 17th-century watchtower that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan.
Afterward, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, situated just north of Paro town. This ancient temple is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Bhutan. You will often see elderly pilgrims walking around the temple, turning its numerous prayer wheels as part of their devotion.
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- Paro
- Day 10: Paro – Trek to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)
Today, embark on a trek to the iconic Paro Taktsang, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliff approximately 3,000 feet above Paro Valley. Begin by hiking to a scenic viewpoint to admire breathtaking views of the monastery, then continue along the trail to reach the site for a closer exploration.
After descending, visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, where you can enjoy magnificent vistas of Mt. Chomolhari, Bhutan’s second-highest peak, and take in the surrounding Himalayan scenery.
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- Paro
- Day 11: Paro – Farewell and Departure
Your 11-day journey through Nepal and Bhutan concludes today. After enjoying breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight home.
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