Highlights of Nepal & Bhutan
Experience Nepal & Bhutan; Kathmandu, "City of Temples"; biodiverse Chitwan; Pokhara, "City of Lakes"; Thimphu, Bhutan's capital; and beautiful Paro. Exciting Bhutanese festivals to choose from!
Overview
Style | Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages
Tour escorts & guides for some segments |
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Departures | March – November 2025 | Group Size | 16 travelers max |
Themes | Active, History & Culture, Festivals | ||
Activity Level | Advanced | ||
What to Expect | This fast-paced, fully escorted tour involves a significant amount of walking or hiking often on uneven terrain, reaches high altitude, and long days on your feet. To fully enjoy the trip, it will require a high level of physical fitness. | ||
Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. |
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Embark on an unforgettable 16-day journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Nepal and Bhutan. Begin in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where ancient temples and lively streets set the stage for a deeply immersive experience. Discover the medieval charm of Bhaktapur and witness the mesmerizing Bagmati Aarati ceremony. Venture into the lush wilderness of Chitwan National Park for exhilarating jeep safaris and riverboat rides, offering glimpses of Nepal’s incredible wildlife. Continue to Pokhara, a lakeside haven with stunning mountain views, before crossing into Bhutan’s mystical mountain kingdom. In Bhutan, explore the capital of Thimphu, the historic valleys of Punakha and Paro, and dive into Bhutanese culture with a choice of vibrant festivals. From the famed Paro and Thimphu Festivals to the Wangdi Festival or the unique Black-Necked Crane Festival, each offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s heritage through music, dance, and celebration amidst awe-inspiring scenery.
Package includes
- Flights
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Guides
- Round-trip flights from New York (NYC) to Kathmandu (KTM), including fuel surcharges and taxes and fees.
- All ground transportation and transfers
- 14 nights accommodations in deluxe hotels
- 32 meals: 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 10 dinners
- Comprehensive tour program including entrance fees
- Professional, English-speaking tour guide
Optional add-ons
- Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
- Optional Morning flight over Mt. Everest
- Optional Namgay Artisanal Brewery
- Optional Archery Lessons
- Optional Hot Stone bath
Why you'll love it
- Experience one of Bhutan's cherished festivals: Paro Festival, Wangdi Festival, Thimphu Festival, or Black-Necked Crane Festival
- Visit Boudhanath and observe the ritual of Kora
- Explore the highlights of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Witness Bagmati Aarati, an evening ritual on the riverbanks
- Observe the daily life and unique traditions at a local Tharu Village
- Venture deep into Chitwan's forest on an exciting Jeep Safari
- Watch a lively Tharu Stick Dance performance
- Wander Pokhara's Old Bazaar, a bustling major trade center dating back to the 1770s
- Admire the sunrise over the Annapurna range in Sarangkot
- Embark on scenic boat rides across the Rapti River and Phewa Lake
- Meet skilled artisans and witness the art of weaving at the Chencho Weaving Center
- Offer prayers alongside locals at Buddha Point, home to Bhutan's largest Buddha statue
- Experience a glimpse of the daily life of the Pana villagers
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery, the spiritual heart of Bhutan
- Learn about the simplicity of Bhutanese cuisine with a cooking class
- Enjoy a live performance of Nepalese folk music and dance during a farewell dinner
Itinerary at a Glance
- 1 Depart USA
- 2 Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal
- 3 Kathmandu
- 4 Bhaktapur & Kathmandu
- Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250
- 5 Kathmandu, Bharatpur & Chitwan
- 6 Chitwan
- 7 Chitwan, Bharatpur & Pokhara
- 8 Pokhara & Kathmandu
- 9 Kathmandu, Paro & Thimphu, Bhutan
- 10 Thimphu
- 11 Thimphu & Punakha
- 12 Punakha & Paro
- Optional Excursion: Namgay Artisanal Brewery, $12
- 13 Paro
- Optional Excursion: Hot Stone Bath, $36
- Optional Excursion: Archery Lesson, $25
- 14 Paro Festival
- 15 Paro & Kathmandu, Nepal
- 16 Depart Kathmandu/Arrive USA
Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
The itinerary below is a sample, based on the Paro Festival (March 27, 2025 departure date). Your actual itinerary will vary based on the specific Bhutanese festival celebration scheduled for your departure, listed below. Learn more about each incredible festival departure here.
Paro Festival
Departure date: March 27, 2025
Wangdi Festival
Departure Date: September 20, 2025
Thimphu Festival
Departure Date: September 23, 2025
Black-Necked Crane Festival
Departure Date: October 31, 2025
For more information about a specific departure, please contact us.
Day 1 Depart USA
- Depart the USA for your overnight flight to Kathmandu, Nepal
Day 2 Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal
- Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal
- Meet our representative and transfer to the hotel
- Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner
Dusit Princess or similar Dinner
Full Day ItineraryNamaste! Welcome to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, which has an approximate altitude of 4,600 ft. On arrival, clear immigration, collect your luggage, and pass through customs. Upon exiting the terminal, look for our representative holding a Friendly Planet Travel sign. After a warm welcome, you'll be escorted to your hotel, where you can take time to settle in and relax.
This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at Dechenling Garden Restaurant. Savor a meal inspired by Nepalese flavors with a complimentary glass of wine, beer, or soft drink to toast the beginning of an incredible journey.
Day 3 Kathmandu
- Visit Boudhanath and observe the ritual of Kora
- Explore the historic Durbar Square
- Travel by rickshaw to Thamel
- Admire Swayambhunath, the "Monkey Temple"
- Spend the evening at leisure
Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, visit Boudhanath, one of the world’s largest stupas and a revered pilgrimage site known for its Tibetan community and vibrant monasteries. Observe the ritual of Kora, where devout Buddhists circle the stupa, chanting “OM MANE PADME HUM.” To complete your experience, light a butter lamp—a tradition symbolizing gratitude and reflection.
Continue to Kathmandu’s historic Durbar Square, the former royal residence and now home to ancient temples and shrines. Take in the lively Asan Market filled with vendors, flute sellers, and a bustling bead market. Don’t miss a visit to the Temple of the Living Goddess, hoping for a glimpse of the Kumari.
Later, travel by rickshaw to Thamel, the city's popular nightlife area and a lively, visitor-friendly Kathmandu district. Here, you'll find traditional houses, fountains, markets, and shops that sell colorful jewelry, handicrafts, and more. Enjoy some free time to explore this fascinating neighborhood.
In the afternoon, visit Swayambhunath, the "Monkey Temple," perched on a hill with sweeping views of the valley. This ancient stupa is alive with pilgrims spinning prayer wheels and chanting—a peaceful finale to your day of discovery in Kathmandu.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 4 Bhaktapur & Kathmandu
- Join an optional morning flight over Mt. Everest
- Explore the highlights of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit Kathmandu's oldest Hindu temple, Pashupatinath
- Witness Bagmati Aarati, an evening ritual on the riverbanks
- Spend the evening at leisure
Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryEarly this morning, have the opportunity to experience an optional Mt. Everest scenic flight over the Himalayas, weather permitting.
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Bhaktapur, a charming Newar city and renowned handicraft center famous for its pottery, thangka paintings, and traditional yogurt. Located a little over 12 miles east of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural gem featuring medieval wood, stone, and metal art. Highlights include the Golden Gate, Lion’s Gate, the Palace of Fifty-Five Windows, and the iconic five-story Nyatapola Temple. This "City of Devotees" is like an open museum, offering a timeless glimpse into Nepal’s rich heritage.
Later, visit Pashupatinath, Kathmandu's oldest Hindu temple, located along the sacred Bagmati River. Revered as the "Temple of Living Beings" honoring Lord Shiva, many thousands of pilgrims worldwide come to pay homage here annually. Conclude your visit by witnessing the captivating Bagmati Aarati, an evening ritual on the riverbanks, where devotees chant, light oil lamps, and offer prayers.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250Early this morning, have the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable optional scenic flight over the majestic Mt. Everest and the awe-inspiring Himalayas. Weather permitting, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure offers unparalleled views that will leave you breathless.
Note: This optional excursion must be purchased locally.
Day 5 Kathmandu, Bharatpur & Chitwan
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Chitwan National Park
- Enjoy lunch at the resort
- Observe the daily life and unique traditions at a local Tharu Village
- View a slide-show presentation by a jungle expert to learn about the history of Chitwan National Park
Jungle Villa Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu domestic airport for your flight to Bharatpur, the gateway to Chitwan National Park. Upon arrival, meet your naturalist guide and drive to your hotel. After check-in, you'll receive a briefing on the lodge facilities and jungle activities.
Chitwan National Park is Nepal's first national park, established in 1973 to preserve its rich ecosystem. Spanning 579 square miles of pristine subtropical lowlands, Chitwan is a sanctuary for 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, and 126 species of fish. This picturesque area is home to dense forests, marshlands, meadows, and the Narayani-Rapti River, which naturally separates the park from nearby settlements.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the resort as you prepare for the adventure that awaits in Nepal's wild, untouched landscapes.
Later this afternoon, visit a local Tharu village to explore this resilient community's unique lifestyle, culture, and history. Known as the "people immune to malaria," the Tharu are the oldest tribe in the region, having survived malaria outbreaks that once ravaged the area. Their homes, crafted from bamboo and mud and adorned with colorful handprints, reflect their deep connection to the land. Today, many Tharu people work in agriculture, fishing, and cattle rearing.
Later, enjoy a slideshow presentation by a jungle expert covering the history of Chitwan National Park and its fascinating wildlife.
Enjoy dinner and overnight at your resort.
Day 6 Chitwan
- Venture deep into the forest on an exciting Jeep Safari
- See the endangered Gharial crocodile at the Crocodile Conservation Project
- Glide down the Rapti River in a traditional patela boat
- Witness a lively Tharu Stick Dance performance
Jungle Villa Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryIn the morning, embark on an exciting Jeep Safari, one of Chitwan's must-do activities. Led by an expert naturalist guide and skilled driver, you'll venture deep into the forest, exploring the hidden magic of the jungle. Keep an eye out for deer, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, leopard, and, with luck, the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. Along the way, your naturalist guide will introduce you to the park's diverse flora and birdlife.
Afterward, return to the hotel to relax before lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the Crocodile Conservation Project, which is dedicated to protecting the endangered Gharial crocodile, known for its narrow snout. Established in 1971, this center breeds Gharials and releases them into the wild to support population growth.
Continue your Chitwan adventure with a tranquil 45-minute ride down the Rapti River in a traditional patela boat, gliding silently past aquatic birds, crocodiles, otters, and other wildlife along the riverbanks. With expert oarsmen guiding the boat and naturalists sharing insights, this experience brings you up close to the river's ecosystem and Chitwan's diverse wildlife.
Afterward, return to the resort to relax.
In the evening, enjoy a lively Tharu Stick Dance performance, where local farmers showcase their traditional skills and folk dances.
Enjoy dinner and overnight at your resort.
Day 7 Chitwan, Bharatpur & Pokhara
- Transfer to the Bharatpur airport for a short flight to Pokhara
- Browse the local foods, crafts, and textiles at Pokhara’s Old Bazaar
- Explore the interior of Devi’s Fall and admire the statues and shrines
- Spend the evening at leisure
Temple Tree Resort & Spa or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, bid farewell to Chitwan as you transfer to Bharatpur for a short flight to Pokhara. Upon arrival, board your touring coach and transfer to your hotel.
Pokhara, a beautiful city known for its serene lakes and adventure options, is nestled between lush, green hills and Lake Phewa, whose calm waters reflect the majestic Annapurna range, including the iconic Machhapuchhare peak which has never been climbed to its summit.
This afternoon, explore Pokhara's Old Bazaar, a bustling major trade center dating back to the 1770s. Today, the Bazaar offers plenty of local foods, crafts, textiles, spices, and more, where bargaining before you buy is the rule. Continue to Devi's Fall, a unique waterfall flowing into Gupteshwor Cave, Nepal's longest cave and one of Southeast Asia's oldest. The cave has cultural as well as religious significance, and as you explore the interior, you'll view statues and shrines as well as other natural and man-made formations.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake area, the heart of Pokhara’s nightlife scene, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Day 8 Pokhara & Kathmandu
- Experience sunrise over the Annapurna range in Sarangkot
- Back at the hotel, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and free time
- Visit the World Peace Stupa on Anadu Hill
- Hike to Pumdikot to see the towering Shiva Statue
- Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Phewa Lake
- Transfer to the airport for a short flight to Kathmandu
- Spend the evening at leisure
Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryEarly this morning, drive to Sarangkot, a tiny village famous for its spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna range. Admire dramatic peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, as the sun transforms them from soft purple hues to glowing gold. Afterward, return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast and free time.
Later, visit the World Peace Stupa on Anadu Hill, overlooking Phewa Lake and framed by the Annapurna mountains. This serene monument, surrounded by trekking trails, offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Continue with a hike to Pumdikot to see the towering Shiva Statue, the tallest in Pokhara (4,920 ft. above sea level), complete with Asia’s largest damaru drum. After enjoying the views, hike back to the Peace Stupa and descend to Phewa Lake’s shore. Here, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, a scenic highlight of Pokhara.
In the late afternoon, transfer to Pokhara’s domestic airport for a short flight back to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival, meet with your representative and transfer to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 9 Kathmandu, Paro & Thimphu, Bhutan
- Transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan
- Journey to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital
- Visit Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-turned-monastery
- Meet skilled artisans and witness the art of weaving at the Chencho Weaving Center
Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter an early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro. En route, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, setting the tone for your journey with an exhilarating descent into Bhutan.
After landing, enjoy Bhutan’s cool, fresh mountain air as you meet your representative and transfer to Thimphu, the capital, stopping along the way at Chuzom, the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.
Upon arrival in Thimphu (alt. 7,875 ft.), check into your hotel. Thimphu is a city where ancient traditions blend with modern life; it’s home to civil servants, expatriates, and monks, yet remains charmingly unique as one of the few world capitals without traffic lights.
This afternoon, visit Tashichho Dzong, a fortress-turned-monastery and seat of Bhutan’s government since 1952. This grand structure, located along the Wang Chhu River, has been rebuilt and expanded over centuries and is surrounded by lush lawns and gardens. It also hosts the annual Thimphu Festival, Bhutan’s biggest and most important religious celebration.
Continue to the Chencho Weaving Center, where you'll explore the artistry of Bhutanese weaving and embroidery. Meet skilled artisans, witness the production of intricate textiles, and learn about Bhutan's rich textile heritage.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight in Thimphu.
Day 10 Thimphu
- Offer prayers alongside locals at Buddha Point, home to Bhutan's largest Buddha statue
- Admire Buddhist manuscripts, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, the Textile Museum, and Simply Bhutan at the National Library
- Visit the King’s Memorial Chorten
- Learn about the production and purpose of incense at an incense factory
Norkhil Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryAfter breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), a short drive from Thimphu city center. Here, you’ll find the largest Buddha statue in Bhutan, where you can join locals in offering prayers and enjoy a sweeping view of the Thimphu valley.
Continue to the National Library, home to priceless Buddhist manuscripts; the Institute for Zorig Chusum, where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts; the Textile Museum, showcasing Bhutanese textiles; and Simply Bhutan, a living museum celebrating Bhutanese heritage.
After lunch, visit the King’s Memorial Chorten, where locals circumambulate while spinning prayer wheels and murmuring mantras. Built in 1974, this memorial was envisioned by Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, as a monument to peace.
Incense is essential in Bhutanese culture, and later this afternoon, you’ll visit an incense factory to learn how it is made and why it is used.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 11 Thimphu & Punakha
- En route to Punakha, stop at Dochula Pass to hang a prayer flag
- Arrive in Punakha and enjoy lunch at the hotel
- Visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness”
- Spend the evening at leisure
Dhensa Boutique Resort or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryThis morning, drive to Punakha, stopping at Dochula Pass along the way. This scenic pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snowcapped Himalayas. The 108 memorial stupas here honor Bhutanese soldiers who lost their lives in the 2003 “Operation All Clear,” a military operation conducted by the Royal Bhutan Army against separatist insurgent groups that resulted in the expulsion of the rebels and the destruction of their encampments. Take a moment to hang a prayer flag, a colorful and spiritual tradition in Bhutan.
Arrive in Punakha, once Bhutan’s capital and still the winter seat of the Je Khenpo, Bhutan’s chief abbot. Set in a lush valley at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, Punakha enjoys a mild climate perfect for farming.
Check into your hotel and enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong, or the “Palace of Great Happiness,” built in 1637. Set at the junction of two rivers, this dzong is one of Bhutan’s most stunning, particularly in spring when jacaranda trees bloom. Once Bhutan’s religious and administrative center, Punakha Dzong remains an iconic part of Bhutan’s heritage, crowned by a six-story, gold-domed tower. Your guide will share insights into its rich history and spiritual significance.
Walk across Bhutan’s longest suspension bridge, adorned with prayer flags and spanning the Tsang Chu River, linking Punakha Dzong to nearby villages with spectacular views.
Return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.
Day 12 Punakha & Paro
- After breakfast, drive to Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of Fertility
- Experience a glimpse of the daily life of the Pana villagers
- Journey to Paro, one of the most fertile valleys in Bhutan
- Visit the 7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King
Naskel Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryEnjoy an early breakfast before driving to Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of Fertility. It is widely believed in Bhutan that if childless couples pray at this temple, they will soon be blessed with a child. This is a Buddhist monastery like no other, a testament to Bhutan’s open-minded approach to sexuality and its embrace of humor and the unconventional.
Take a short walk from the Temple of Fertility across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana to gain a rare glimpse into the daily life of villagers.
Continue your journey to Paro (alt. 7,218 ft.), a beautiful town situated within a fertile valley responsible for producing a significant portion of the locally preferred red rice. Rich with countless myths and legends, it hosts many of Bhutan's oldest temples and monasteries, the National Museum, and the country's only airport. At 23,035 ft., Mount Chomolhari majestically towers over the valley's northern end, with its glacial waters flowing through deep gorges to form Pa Chhu (Paro River).
Upon arrival, enjoy exploring Paro independently or join an optional tour to Namgay Artisanal Brewery.
Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, credited with being the first to bring Buddhism to Tibet. It is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom, dating back to the 7th century. The Lhakhang complex is composed of two temples: the first was built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century; the second by the Queen Mother of Bhutan, H.M. Ashi Kesang, in 1968.
End the day with dinner and an overnight at the hotel.
Optional Excursion: Namgay Artisanal Brewery, $12Day 13 Paro
- Hike to Taktsang Monastery, the spiritual heart of Bhutan
- Visit Ta Dzong, originally a watchtower and now home to Bhutan’s National Museum
- Have the opportunity to relax in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath or take an archery lesson
Naskel Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryToday, embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, or "Tiger's Nest," considered the spiritual heart of Bhutan, perched dramatically 10,240 ft. above sea level. The trek to the monastery is divided into stages: The first is a 45-60 minute hike to a cafeteria viewpoint, where you’ll have lunch. From here, continue for another hour to the lookout directly across from the monastery. Finally, descend 475 steps to a ravine, cross a stream and waterfall, and climb 300 steps to the monastery entrance.
Inside, explore the monastery and the cave where Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the revered father of Bhutan as a nation, once meditated. The journey back to the lookout takes about an hour. (Those who find the hike too strenuous can wait at the cafeteria viewpoint for the hikers to return and continue the day together.)
In the afternoon, return to Paro to visit Ta Dzong, which was initially a watchtower and is now home to Bhutan's National Museum. This museum displays over 3,000 works of Bhutanese art and history, including antique thangka paintings, textiles, weapons, and a variety of cultural artifacts.
Afterward, have the opportunity to relax in a hot stone bath or join an exciting optional archery lesson.
Return to your hotel in Paro for dinner and an overnight stay.
Optional Excursion: Hot Stone Bath, $36After a day of adventure, relax in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath where heated river stones and wormwood-infused water create a unique, rejuvenating experience. The heat of the water, combined with the medicinal herbs and minerals from the stones, combine to release stress and calm tired muscles.
Optional Excursion: Archery Lesson, $25Experience a unique archery lesson at your hotel, where you’ll get a hands-on introduction to Bhutan’s national sport, deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage. Since Bhutan’s entry into the United Nations in 1971, archery has not only become the national game but also a powerful symbol of pride, recognized worldwide. You'll have the opportunity to learn the art of archery in a dedicated outdoor space, surrounded by Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. Guided by a skilled instructor, participants will master basic techniques and enjoy friendly competition with fellow travelers.
Day 14 Paro Festival
- Experience the vibrant and spiritually-rich Paro Festival at Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Learn about the simplicity of Bhutanese cuisine with a cooking class
Naskel Boutique Hotel & Spa or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryToday, immerse yourself in the vibrant and spiritually-rich atmosphere of the Paro Festival, which is celebrated at the magnificent Paro Rinpung Dzong. As you arrive, you'll be surrounded by the intricate beauty of this fortress monastery, a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture.
The Paro Festival features captivating dances performed by monks and laypeople adorned in colorful masks and elaborate costumes. These dances, or "chams," are inspired by Buddhist legends and Bhutanese folklore. Each performance tells a unique story, often portraying the triumph of good over evil or depicting pivotal moments from the life of Bhutan's revered saint, Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), who brought Buddhism to Bhutan.
As you wander through the crowd, you'll see locals in their finest attire, having traveled from distant villages to participate. The festival atmosphere is lively yet reverent, with attendees coming not only to enjoy the performances but also to pray, receive blessings, and enjoy a sense of community. It's a unique chance to observe Bhutanese culture in its most vibrant and authentic form.
Later, learn about the simplicity of delicious Bhutanese cuisine with a cooking class. Despite their simplicity, Bhutanese dishes are incredibly flavorful and can be easily mastered, offering a personal way to connect with local traditions.
Afterward, return to your hotel.
Day 15 Paro & Kathmandu, Nepal
- Transfer to the airport for your short flight to Kathmandu
- Journey to Patan, The City of a Thousand Golden Roofs
- Enjoy free time to explore the Thamel area of Kathmandu
- Witness a live performance of Nepalese folk music and dance during a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers
Dusit Princess Breakfast & dinner
Full Day ItinerarySay goodbye to Bhutan early this morning as you transfer to the airport for your short flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in, a leisurely breakfast, and time to rest.
This afternoon, venture to Patan. Known locally as The City of a Thousand Golden Roofs, it is an artist’s haven with intricate narrow streets and historic charm. Marvel at the traditional brick houses adorned with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, which give the city its unique, theatrical feel. Known throughout Nepal for its blacksmithing and goldsmithing heritage, Patan is where artisans skillfully craft statues of Hindu and Buddhist deities. Here, you’ll see more than 50 temples, some of which survived the 2015 earthquake, and numerous stupas, chaityas, and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) that reflect the long history of Newar Buddhism.
Continue to the bustling Thamel area of Kathmandu and enjoy some free time to explore. This vibrant neighborhood blends culture, shopping, and cuisine, perfect for finding unique souvenirs, relaxing at a café, or taking in the local scene.
This evening, gather for a farewell dinner at Bhojan Griha Restaurant, where you'll taste traditional Nepalese hospitality. Savor authentic local dishes as you enjoy a live performance of Nepalese folk music and dance. Adorned in beautiful, traditional costumes, the performers will share Nepal's rich cultural heritage through music and dance, bringing Nepal's diverse traditions to life.
Drive back to the hotel for your overnight.
Day 16 Depart Kathmandu/Arrive USA
- After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA
Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryBid farewell to your Nepal & Bhutan adventure as you transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA. Arrive in the USA later today.
Important Notes
- The high altitudes reached on this trip and the amount of walking involved, often on uneven terrain, require that you be in good physical condition to enjoy the trip thoroughly. As there are several included hikes, we strongly suggest you consult your physician if you have any concerns regarding your ability to handle these conditions.
- We recommend bringing more than one pair of hiking boots or shoes and extra socks for your comfort during your trip.
- During the festivals, the Bhutanese customarily wear their finest brightly colored clothing. We suggest you bring a colorful article of clothing to match the festival's fervor. Itineraries will vary slightly depending on the festival. Learn more here.
- You will stay in well-rated, high-quality 4—and 5-star hotels.
- Some of the roads in the rugged Himalayan terrain are winding, bumpy, and can be muddy at times. It is suggested that you carry motion sickness medication if needed.
Hotels
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
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Trip Details
- What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
- Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
- Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Something else? Just ask!
- Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
- Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
- What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
- What should I know about Nepal? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
- What should I know about Bhutan? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.