Nepal and Bhutan Tour

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Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cultural and spiritual journey across the mystical Himalayan landscapes of Nepal and Bhutan. The Nepal Bhutan Tour is a perfect blend of two fascinating kingdoms of the Himalaya, offering an immersive exploration of Nepal’s ancient and cultural heritage along with the serene, spiritually rich atmosphere of Bhutan.    

Duration
11 Days
Trip Grade
Easy
Country
Bhutan
Group Size
2 to 8
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Tour
Best Time
September to June

Tour Highlights:

  • Discover the Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa. 
  • Visit the traditional and culturally enriched towns of Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, and Panauti, known for their peaceful ambience and spiritual significance. 
  • Experience the stunning, scenic mountain flight to Paro.
  • Explore Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, blending tradition and modernity.
  • Visit Punakha Dzong, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture nestled at the confluence of two rivers.
  • Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Paro Takshang, perched on a dramatic cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor.
  • Immerse yourself in the culture of local markets, monasteries, and traditional villages across both countries. 

Tour Overview:

Your adventure starts from your arrival at the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, known for its vibrant tapestry of history, spirituality, and living culture. The place was once a key networking hub for the Silk Road, and is a melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Within its valley lie seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the sacred temples of Pashupatinath, Changu Narayan and Boudhanath, the hilltop stupa of Swayambhunath, and the royal courtyards of Bhaktapur, Basantapur and Patan Durbar Squares. From the seven, you will be visiting four of them on your second day. 

Despite the bustle of modern life, Kathmandu preserves its timeless charm through stone-carved temples, colorful festivals, and centuries-old traditions. You will visit the peaceful towns of Dhulikhel, Namo Buddha, and Panauti, which will give you a deeper understanding of Nepal’s cultural roots. Kathmandu hence serves as both the spiritual and cultural heart of Nepal.

On the fourth day, you will depart for Bhutan, nestled in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas. Bhutan is the world’s only Mahayana Buddhist kingdom, known for its deep spirituality, unspoiled natural beauty, and unique national philosophy of Gross National Happiness. The country remained self-isolated for centuries, helping preserve its vibrant traditions, pristine environment, and strong cultural identity.

Crossing over to the land of Thunder Dragon, you’ll land in Paro and the journey continues through the vibrant city of Thimphu, a unique city with no traffic lights, yet bustling with colorful traditions, arts, and Bhutanese hospitality. Marvel at the majestic fortress like Trashichhoedzong (Tashichho Dzong), stroll through traditional handicraft markets, and visit sacred sites like the National Memorial Chorten.

The upcoming day, you will be transferred to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, which is home to the stunning Punakha Dzong, gracefully set at the confluence of two rivers.  The tour culminates with a breathtaking hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most iconic site, dramatically perched on a cliffside at 3,120 meters.  You will depart back to Kathmandu and enjoy your free day, and return to the country with the best experience of two countries rich in culture and traditions.

This guided tour experience to Nepal and Bhutan will provide comfort, well-paced travel, and cultural immersion.  Whether you are meditating at a mountaintop monastery, enjoying traditional meals in local homes, or watching the sunrise over the Himalayas, this journey offers the rare opportunity to explore the soul of the Himalayas across two extraordinary countries. Travel to Bhutan and Nepal with Walk Mountain for the best guided experience and best memories for a lifetime. 
 

Nepal and Bhutan Tour Day-to-day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu
Day 02: Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing
Day 03: Full-Day Dhulikhel, Namobuddha, Panauti Sightseeing
Day 04: Arrive Paro by Air & Transfer to Thimphu
  • Distance: 1.5 hours (drive)
  • Duration: 55 km (drive)
Day 05: Thimphu Day Tour
Day 06: Drive from Thimphu to Punakha
  • Distance: 3 hours (drive)
  • Duration: 75 km (drive)
Day 07: Drive to Paro
  • Distance: 120 km (drive)
  • Duration: 4.5 hours (drive)
Day 08: Paro Day Tour
Day 09: Depart Paro by Air to Kathmandu
Day 10: Free Day in Kathmandu
Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu
Detailed Itinerary
Kathmandu to KathmanduExpand all
Essential Information

Travel Documentation and Visa Processes for Bhutan and Nepal:

Travelling to Nepal and Bhutan is relatively easier compared to other destinations. But regarding the visa processing and documentation, there are some important steps. 

Nepal Visa: 

Getting a Visa to Nepal is easy, and most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or any other designated point of entry. Tourists need a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity), a passport-size photo, and visa fees in USD. Visa fees vary by duration:

  • 15 days: USD 30
  • 30 days: USD 50
  • 90 days: USD 125

You can also apply online through Nepal’s official immigration portal. Most nationalities are eligible for a visa-on-arrival, making Nepal an accessible starting point for your combined Nepal-Bhutan journey.

Bhutan Visa: 

Unlike Nepal, Bhutan requires a pre-approved visa. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan. So, a visa must be arranged through a licensed tour operator of Bhutan, or a partner agency like Walk Mountain can help with the arrangements. 

The Bhutan government mandates a Minimum Daily Package Rate (MDPR), which includes accommodation, meals, guides, transportation, and visa processing. For most nationalities, the visa costs USD 40, and tourists must also pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD 100 per person per day (as of 2024).

Once your Bhutan trip is confirmed, we will process your visa and provide an e-visa clearance letter, which must be presented upon arrival in Bhutan—either at Paro Airport or Phuentsholing if entering by land.

Travel permits 

Nepal:

No special permits are required for Kathmandu Valley sightseeing. However, if your package includes a short hike or national park entry, additional permits may apply.

Bhutan:

Travelers must enter Bhutan via Paro International Airport or by land through Phuentsholing. Your Bhutan travel permit and visa will be processed by the tour operator. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan—you must travel with a registered agency.

Accommodation Facility During the Tour

Nepal:

You’ll be staying in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu, offering a mix of comfort and local charm. Accommodations are equipped with Wi-Fi, hot showers, and Western toilets. Luxury upgrades are available on request.

Bhutan:

In Bhutan, your accommodation will include government-approved 3-star hotels included in the tour package. These hotels offer clean rooms, traditional Bhutanese hospitality, en-suite bathrooms, and cozy ambiance. In remote areas, the lodges are simpler but still comfortable.

Meals and Dietary Considerations

Nepal:

Most hotels offer breakfast, while lunch and dinner are typically enjoyed at local restaurants. Popular dishes include dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables), momo (dumplings), and Newari cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.

Bhutan:

Your Bhutan tour package includes full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) served at hotels or local restaurants. Expect traditional dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese), red rice, pork or chicken curries, and seasonal vegetables. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your tour operator in advance for special arrangements.

Transportation Facilities during the Tour

Your Nepal-Bhutan tour includes comfortable, private ground transfers in air-conditioned vehicles. Flights from Kathmandu to Paro are short but scenic, flying past the Himalayas. Domestic airlines like Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines operate between Nepal and Bhutan.

Connectivity and Communication

Wi-Fi is available in Kathmandu and Bhutanese hotels. SIM cards for mobile data are cheap in Nepal (NTC or Ncell) and Bhutan (B-Mobile or TashiCell), and your guide can assist with setup.