Excursions in Muscat

Nepal and Bhutan Tour

Mystical Bhutan & Nepal

Trip Duration:

15 days

Recommended season:

October - November

March - April

Nepal - Trip Summary

A customized 15-day tour of Nepal and Bhutan offers an enchanting journey into two of the most mystical countries in Asia. Nestled in the Himalayas between India and China, Bhutan carefully preserves its traditional religious character, combining a captivating mix of cultures, religions, and ways of life against breathtaking landscapes. Nepal, with its serene charm, provides a sensory experience like no other, offering stunning views, rich traditions, and welcoming locals.
This personalized 15-day tour includes a variety of travel options with comprehensive services, accompanied by local English-speaking guides and a dedicated driver, ensuring a memorable experience tailored to your pace and style. Discover the spiritual essence and timeless beauty of Nepal and Bhutan on a journey crafted just for you.

Geographic • Nature • Temples

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival - Kathmandu

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, we will meet our representative at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

 

Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, Kathmandu boasts a vibrant mix of ancient temples and modern hustle, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both the spiritual and everyday life of the Nepalese people. The city is also a gateway to the majestic Himalayas, making it a popular starting point for trekkers and adventurers.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2

Day 2: Unveiling the Wonders of Kathmandu

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour. Our first stop will be the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, which features a complex of smaller temples and an impressive Buddhist stupa that dates back approximately 2,500 years. The site is named for the many monkeys that inhabit the area.

 

Next, we will visit Durbar Square, a historic area filled with ancient structures from the 12th century, including the royal palace and various temples. We will then continue to the grand stupa of Boudhanath and the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath, where cremation rituals take place.

 

Following this, we will explore the nearby city of Patan. Despite its proximity to Kathmandu, Patan is quieter and cleaner, with a stunning Durbar Square that often goes unnoticed by many tourists.

 

We will conclude the day by witnessing the traditional Aarti ceremony along the banks of the Bagmati River.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3

Day 3: Kathmandu - The Sacred Temples of Kirtipur - Chobar Gorge

After breakfast, we will embark on a day trip to Kirtipur, a town rich in Buddhist and Hindu temples. Here, we will visit several temples and engage with locals who maintain traditional lifestyles.

 

Next, we will continue to visit the Chobar Gorge, which channels the waters of the Kathmandu Valley. We will admire the canyon’s beauty and visit the nearby village of the same name, where we will explore the Dakshinkali Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali.

 

After our visits, we will return to the hotel.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 4

Day 4: Kathmandu - Chitwan National Park

After breakfast and depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for your flight to Chitwan National Park, located in the Terai plains of southern Nepal, bordering India.
Chitwan Valley was once a favored hunting ground for the British and Nepalese nobility. After overcoming malaria outbreaks in the area, the locals discovered its agricultural potential, which significantly reduced the populations of tigers, rhinoceroses, and other wildlife. To combat this decline, the Chitwan National Park was established in 1964, making it the oldest national park in Nepal and one of the best places in Asia for wildlife viewing. However, spotting a tiger or rhinoceros still requires a bit of luck.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the lodge. Lunch is included.
Later, we will embark on a guided tour of the park. (Shared Tour)
Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge in Chitwan.

Day 5

Day 5: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, we will embark on a day filled with activities and tours (Shared) within the national park. Explore the park’s rich wildlife and unique ecosystem, possibly spotting various animals such as elephants, rhinos, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Lunch Included.
Dinner and vernight in a lodge in Chitwan.

Day 6

Day 6: Chitwan - Pokhara

After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Pokhara. Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Pokhara is located near the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, with its stunning blue lake providing a picturesque backdrop.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore the area at your leisure.
Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 7

Day 7: Pokhara and Surroundings

Early in the morning, we will embark on a drive to Sarangkot to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayas, complemented by a short hiking excursion. After returning to the hotel, we will enjoy breakfast.

 

Following breakfast, we’ll explore Pokhara and its surroundings. We’ll take a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visit a Tibetan refugee camp, admire the stunning Davis Falls, and pay our respects at the Bindhyabasini Temple. We’ll also visit the International Mountain Museum and have some time to wander through the local bazaars.
Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 8

Day 8: Pokhara - Kathmandu

After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Kathmandu.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 9

Day 9: Kathmandu - Paro - Thimphu

After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Paro, Bhutan. The city of Paro is situated in a lush green valley, considered one of the most beautiful in Bhutan, at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level.

 

Upon landing, we will meet our representative at the airport and drive for about an hour to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and its political and administrative center.

 

Thimphu is located at the confluence of rivers and is surrounded by pine forests. It is home to the royal family and important nobility in Bhutan. The massive and stylized dzong serves as the seat of government, housing the parliament and the king’s offices. The streets are adorned with numerous stupas, large and small temples, bustling with devotees and religious activity. Key institutions such as the National Library, the Academy of Religious Arts, and the Sunday market reflect the city’s modernity alongside its rich cultural heritage. Despite this modernity, Thimphu maintains a distinctly Bhutanese atmosphere in its architecture, dress, and daily life.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel. In the evening, we will explore Thimphu’s main street and market area.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 10

Day 10: Thimphu - Unveiling the Mystique of Bhutan's Capital

After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Thimphu. We will visit the ancient library and the National Institute for Traditional Arts, known as Zorig Chusum, established in 1971 to preserve and promote various traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.

 

Next, we will explore the Textile Museum, which showcases weaving culture, techniques, and various clothing styles. Following that, we will visit the Simply Bhutan Folk Heritage Museum, where we can learn about the country’s traditional lifestyle.

 

We will then ascend to Buddha Point for stunning views of the Thimphu Valley and the royal family residence.
Afterward, we will stop at the Memorial Chorten, where locals often turn the prayer wheels, before visiting the impressive Trashichhoedzong. This medieval fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city, houses the offices of the king, ministers, and the central monastic body.

 

After the tour, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 11

Day 11: Thimphu - Punakha - A Scenic Journey Through Bhutan’s Heart

After breakfast, we will embark on a two-hour drive along Bhutan’s only highway that crosses the country from end to end. This scenic route takes us through mountain passes, valleys, forests, streams, and small villages adorned with temples and folk shrines. We will cross the Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,100 meters, where, weather permitting, we can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayas, the abode of Bhutan’s founding deities.

 

Continuing on, we will make a steep ascent for about an hour and a half, winding down into the Punakha Valley, which sits at an elevation of 1,300 meters. Punakha is known as the religious heart of the nation, housing the main monastic body of Bhutan within its dzong.

 

Upon arrival, we will visit the Punakha Dzong, the most important and beautiful dzong in Bhutan, which also houses the country’s largest monk school. In the afternoon, we will stroll through the charming streets of the town and visit the Chimi Lhakhang, a renowned temple dedicated to the legendary 14th-century monk Drukpa Kunley, known for his unconventional and playful approach to spirituality.

 

Following our explorations, we will transfer to our hotel.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 12

Day 12: Punakha - Through Sacred Landscapes

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic hike through chili fields towards the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten, a temple built to promote peace and harmony in the world.

 

Following our visit, we will head to the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Nunnery, situated on a high ridge among pine trees, offering stunning views of the Punakha Valley. The nunnery complex also features a higher learning center and a meditation space for the nuns. In addition to religious training, it provides skills training in areas such as tailoring, embroidery, sculpture creation, and Buddhist thangka painting.
Overnight in Punakha.

Day 13

Day 13: Punakha - Paro

After breakfast, we will embark on a journey of approximately 4.5 hours to Paro.

 

Along the way, we will stop to visit Simtokha Dzong, which serves as a center for the study of the Dzongkha language and hosts courses in tantra.

 

Continuing our drive to Paro, upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel for some relaxation.

 

Later, we will visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower and now housing the National Museum. Following this, we will take a short walk to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress that showcases the rich history and architecture of Bhutan.
Overnight in Paro.

Day 14

Day 14: Paro - Tiger's Nest Monastery

After breakfast, we will embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” which is perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to Bhutan from Tibet on the back of a tiger, bringing the teachings of Buddhism with him. This monastery is considered one of the holiest sites in Bhutan.

 

The hike is challenging and takes approximately 5 hours, or you can ride a pony to the cafeteria and continue the ascent on foot. There is also the option to hike only halfway up.

 

Following our visit, we will return to Paro. Along the way, we will stop to explore the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, where Bhutanese warriors fought against the Tibetans. We will also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo.
Overnight in Paro.

 

Day 15

Day 15: Paro - Kathmandu - Departure

After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for our flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, we will continue our journey home.

 

Unforgettable Journey, Designed for You.

Unforgettable Nepal Your Way

More Popular Tours in Nepal

Why Discover Nepal
with Us?

We take care of everything for you—crafting a personalized itinerary, booking all services, and handling every detail, big and small. All you need to do is pack and get ready to enjoy a seamless, unforgettable travel experience tailored just for you and your loved ones.

Travelers Testimonials

Tailoring Your Dream Trip to Nepal