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Nepal Bhutan Tour – 10 days
Based on 27 reviews
Trip Duration
10 Days
Trip Difficulty
Easy
Max Altitude:
2,335m. / 7,661ft.
Group Size
2 to 25 People
Best Season
Autumn, Spring
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel
Transportation
Private Vehicle
Overview and Highlights of Nepal Bhutan Tour – 10 days
Nepal Bhutan Tour is a 10 day trip that offers two Himalayan states that have their history, traditions and cultural identity. This tour combines some of the most significant cultural and natural sites in the region, including historic temples and bustling streets in Kathmandu, serene monasteries and mountain valleys in Bhutan, into one itinerary.
Your adventure will start in Nepal, where you will see the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient royal squares, Buddhist stupas, and sacred Hindu temples. Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Nagarkot are some of the places where one is treated to a glimpse of the Nepal living heritage, besides being surprised by the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills, and on clear days, the Himalayas in the distance.
The second part of the trip takes you to the country of Bhutan, where traditions, Buddhist culture, and the environment are well preserved. The scenic flight over the Himalayas lands one in Paro where fortress monasteries, historic temples, and traditional Bhutanese buildings present a new vision of the Himalayan life. The trip goes on to Thimphu, Punakha and Gangtey where you get to see the cultural sites of the country and the scenic mountainous views.
Another highlight of the Nepal Bhutan Tour Package is the hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. The monastery, built on a cliff and overlooking the Paro Valley, is considered one of the most significant religious sites in Bhutan. You will also see other landmarks along the way including Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Patan Durbar Square, Dochu La Pass, and the spectacular Punakha Dzong.
The Nepal Bhutan Trip is a comfortable cultural sightseeing tour designed for travelers who enjoy history, culture, and scenic landscapes. This Nepal and Bhutan Tour will be an excellent experience of two Himalayan destinations that are neighbors in one holiday trip with a well-organized transport, local professional guides, and controlled pace of sightseeing.
Trip Highlights
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.
- Go to the holy Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
- Have a panoramic view of the Himalayas at Nagarkot.
- Take a scenic mountain flight between Kathmandu and Paro.
- Hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan.
- Explore cultural sites of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Gangtey.
- Explore two Himalayan nations in one Nepal Bhutan Tour.
Nepal Bhutan Tour – 10 days Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal. When you get to Tribhuvan international airport, our representative will welcome you and take you to your Kathmandu hotel. On the way to the hotel, you will have an initial impression of what the Nepal capital is like, with ancient temples, busy streets, and traditional areas mixing with modern city life. Once you have checked in, you may have a rest, or have time to sightsee the surrounding place at your convenience.
We will hold a brief tour briefing in the afternoon to introduce the Nepal Bhutan Tour and the journey ahead. Before the adventure starts, our team will describe the itinerary, travel arrangements, and provide answers to any questions. Overnight stay will be in Kathmandu.
Activity: 25 Minutes
Max. Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu)
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural treasures of Kathmandu Valley. We will also see a few UNESCO World Heritage Sites, starting with Boudhanath Stupa, where spinning prayer wheels, colorful flags, and the monasteries around it will give us a relaxing environment. This trip goes on to the most significant Hindu temple in Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple, which is situated along the Bagmati River.
We will visit the Patan Durbar Square later which is known to be very beautiful with its well-preserved palaces, courtyards and the traditional Newari architecture. Provided that there is time, the day ends with a trip to Swayambhunath Stupa, which provides views of the Kathmandu Valley. We will spend the day sightseeing then go back to the hotel.
Max. Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu )
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 03: Bhaktapur Sightseeing and Nagarkot Excursion
We will leave Kathmandu and go to Bhaktapur, an ancient city with the old temples, the narrow brick streets and the impressive carvings in wood. A stroll around Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a chance to explore the rich artistic traditions of Nepal, and local cafes will give you a chance to try the most famous traditional Nepalese yogurt Juju Dhau.
Later in the afternoon, we drive to Nagarkot, a peaceful hill station known for its mountain views. When it is clear, Himalayan peaks can be seen in the distance spanning the horizon. We will spend some time enjoying the scenery before returning to Kathmandu for the night.
Activity: Full Day Tour
Max. Altitude: 2,175m/7,136ft. (Nagarkot )
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 04: Fly to Paro and Explore the Valley
A morning flight transfers us to Kathmandu Airport where we board the plane to Paro, which is considered to be one of the most picturesque flights in the Himalayas. On a clear day, the flight offers excellent views of the Himalayan mountains before descending into the beautiful Paro Valley. When all the formalities are done on arrival, you will be greeted by your Bhutanese guide who will help you get to the hotel.
The afternoon will be spent in sightseeing Paro. We will first visit the National Museum and get acquainted with the history and culture of Bhutan and visit Khyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in the country. The day continues with a visit to Paro Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress monastery that overlooks the valley and then back to the hotel.
Max. Altitude: 2,200m/7,218ft. (Paro)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 05: Hike to Taktsang Monastery and Drive to Thimphu
Today begins with a hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred religious sites. The path gradually ascends through a pine tree forest adorned with colorful prayer flags. Along the trail, you will come across several viewpoints that will give you great chances to view the monastery, which is constructed on a high cliff overlooking the Paro Valley.
We will visit the monastery and the surrounding area and then go back to Paro before we move to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. The journey is made along the picturesque mountainous road with spectacular valleys, rivers and traditional villages. We will arrive in Thimphu and check in to our hotel and spend the evening.
Max. Altitude: 2,334m/7,657ft. (Hotel)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 06: Sightseeing in Thimphu (Full Day)
Today is dedicated to discovering Bhutan’s capital city. We will go to Kuensel Phodrang where there is a great statue of Buddha Dordenma that lies above the valley of Thimphu. The tour also includes the Memorial Chorten, an important place of worship where local people gather daily to offer prayers.
We will also visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see Bhutan’s national animal, followed by the National Textile Museum, which displays Bhutan’s traditional weaving techniques and textile heritage. We will also visit the handmade paper factory before driving back to the hotel in case there is time. The remainder of the evening can be spent exploring the local markets or relaxing at your own pace.
Max. Altitude: 2,334m/7,657ft. (Thimphu)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 07: Drive to Punakha and Hike to Lungchutse Monastery
With Thimphu behind us, we will move on to Punakha by the Dochu La Pass that has a group of memorial chortens and mountain scenery on clear days. The trip follows a varied landscaped area after spending a few days at the pass and then arrives at Punakha. We will also pay a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, which is a temple closely related to local traditions and beliefs, along the way.
We will stop at Dochula Pass to enjoy panoramic Himalayan views before continuing to Punakha. After arriving, we will visit the impressive Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress monasteries, followed by a visit to Chimi Lhakhang before checking into our hotel in Punakha.
Max. Altitude: 1,242m/4,075ft. (Punakha)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 08: Drive to Gangtey and Return to Paro
This morning, we will travel to the beautiful Gangtey Valley, a peaceful destination surrounded by rolling hills, traditional villages, and open landscapes. Gangtey Monastery and the natural beauty are also famous in the valley and hence they make it one of the most pleasant places to tour in Bhutan. Between late October and February, the valley becomes the winter home of the endangered black necked cranes.
We will start the journey back to Paro after sightseeing Gangtey and having lunch. The road back goes through mountainous routes, forests and small villages, which is another chance to enjoy the countryside of Bhutan. Upon reaching Paro, we will check into the hotel and enjoy our final evening in Bhutan.
Max. Altitude: 2,200m/7,218ft. (Paro)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 09: Fly from Paro to Kathmandu
We will take the flight back to Kathmandu after breakfast to Paro International Airport. In case of favorable weather, the trip again presents amazing scenery of the Himalayan mountain range and lands in Nepal. Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at your own leisure time to relax or to explore Kathmandu. You can visit local markets, taste local food or just have a reflection on the experience you have had in Nepal and Bhutan by the time the tour ends.
Max. Altitude: 1,400m/4,593ft. (Kathmandu)
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 10: Final Departure
Your Nepal Bhutan Tour comes to an end today. We will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport to continue with your flight depending on your schedule. Please ensure you arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete check in and immigration formalities.
As you leave Nepal, you will take home memories of ancient temples, historic cities, peaceful monasteries, mountain landscapes, and the warm hospitality experienced in both Nepal and Bhutan. We hope to see you once more on another trip to the Himalayas.
Activity: 25 Minutes
Meal: Breakfast
Note:
If you have a private group and prefer a personalized experience, we can organize a custom trip tailored to your requirements and group size, running it any day you choose.
Includes & Excludes
What are included with package?
Transportation
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu and Paro
- All Nepal and Bhutan sightseeing tours by private transportation
- International flight from Kathmandu to Paro
- International flight from Paro to Kathmandu
- All ground transportation as per the itinerary
Food and Accommodation
- Hotel stay during the tour
- Daily breakfast in Nepal
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the Bhutan tour
- Sightseeing in Bhutan and bottled drinking water
Guide and Sightseeing
- Professional English-speaking guide in Nepal
- Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide
- Sightseeing tours as in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to monuments and cultural sites included in the itinerary
Permits and Visa
- Bhutan tourist visa
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Bhutan
- All the required state taxes and service fees of the Bhutan tour
Others
- Assistance with arrival and departure
- All relevant government taxes
- 24-hour support from the 3A Adventure team throughout the tour
What are not included with package?
International Flights and Visa
- Airfares to and out of Nepal
- Nepal entry visa fee
- Any other visa fees not included in the inclusion section
Food and Drinks
- Lunch and dinner in Nepal unless specified
- Soft drinks and alcohol
- Individual snacks and other drinks
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance
- Medical costs and emergency evacuation cost
Personal Expenses
- Laundry services
- Internet charges and telephone calls
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
Tips for guides and drivers
- Any other optional sightseeing or activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Other Expenses
- Costs related to flight delays, cancellations, weather conditions, natural disasters, political conditions or other factors, which are beyond our control.
- Any other services not mentioned in the inclusion section.
Route Map & Altitude Chart
Trip Information
Weather and Best Time of the Year to Visit
Nepal Bhutan Tour can be experienced during most of the year, though spring and autumn are the most popular months to travel. In both Nepal and Bhutan, spring (March to May) is a good season with nice weather, flowers, and clear weather. It is also the right time to do sightseeing, take short hikes, enjoy mountain scenery on flights and visits to mountain resorts like Nagarkot and hill stations.
The other best time of the year to do the tour is in autumn or September to November. The weather is also clearer in general after the monsoon season and it is easier to appreciate the Himalayan landscape and outdoor sightseeing. Winter also offers good travel conditions, although mornings and evenings can be much colder, especially in Bhutan. Nepal is the primary recipient of summer monsoon, though Bhutan can get seasonal rainfall. The spring and autumn are still the seasons of choice due to comfortable weather and clear mountain vistas.
Tour Difficulty
The Nepal Bhutan Tour is regarded as a comfortable cultural tour that is ideal to travelers of various age groups and physical capacity. The majority of sightseeing is done by personal car, and easy strolls through temples, monasteries, museums and historical sites. The only physically demanding activity is the hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), which usually takes about 2 to 3 hours to climb and around 1.5 to 2 hours to descend.
This tour does not require any prior experience of trekking or hiking. The itinerary can be comfortably taken by travelers with an average fitness level as they explore the culture of the two countries. The sightseeing, travel and rest are included in the tour at a relaxed pace.
Accommodation
The Nepal Bhutan Tour Package offers accommodation in comfortable hotels which are well chosen based on quality, location and service. In Kathmandu, Paro, Thimphu and Punakha, visitors are accommodated in well-fitted hotels with current facilities and easy access to the neighboring sites.
Rooms also tend to have their own bathrooms, quality beds, and WiFi connectivity among other facilities. There can be a slight difference in the hotel standards across the destinations and all attempts are made to offer clean and comfortable accommodation during the journey. Travelers can relax after sightseeing in each day and get ready to visit the next destination.
Food and Drinks
There is breakfast all through the tour and lunch and dinner during the Bhutan part of the journey as per the itinerary. Tourists will be able to taste local and international food served in hotels and in chosen restaurants.
In Nepal, you can enjoy Dal Bhat, momo, Newari specialties, and a wide variety of international cuisine. In Bhutan, food frequently includes rice, vegetables, soups and traditional dishes made of local ingredients. Both countries have a wide selection of vegetarian options, and special dietary needs may be organized with prior notice.
Visa and Travel Documents
Nepal Bhutan Tour involves the need of various travel documents in Nepal and Bhutan. Tourist visa Nepal- most foreigners are entitled to receive a Nepal tourist visa at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport or at specified basic land border points. The travelers ought to make sure that their passport has no expiry date that is less than six months before their planned date of departure.
In the case of Bhutan, tourists need to have a visa prior to travelling to Bhutan. The visa is facilitated by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and is made after submission of the required documents. Before traveling, travelers are also expected to have a valid passport and any other documents required. Our group will help you in the travel information and documentation you need to travel.
Transportation
The Nepal Bhutan Tour is covered by comfortable private vehicles in transportation to do sightseeing and airport transfers. International flights between Kathmandu and Paro have a convenient connection between Nepal and Bhutan, and complete domestic travel between the two countries.
Roads between Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Gangtey are generally well maintained, although they are winding mountain roads. The tour comes with professional drivers who have knowledge of the roads and hence the journey is comfortable and safe. Every transport that is part of the itinerary is arranged by 3A Adventure, which means that travelers will be able to experience the adventure without any concerns about the transportation arrangements.
Communication
Both Nepal and Bhutan have good mobile network coverage in major cities and tourist destinations visited during the tour. Visitors are able to buy those local SIM cards once they are in that country in case they want to access the mobile data and make local calls when they are staying in the country.
The majority of hotels, restaurants, and cafes also offer WiFi services, which enable visitors to be connected to their family and friends during the journey. Although the internet speed can fluctuate with the location, there are usually no problems with communication facilities in the locations covered by the Nepal and Bhutan Tour.
Travel Insurance
Anyone who is on board the Nepal Bhutan Trip is highly advised to take travel insurance. A suitable travel insurance policy provides financial protection against trip cancellation, flight delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss, and other unexpected travel expenses.
Though it is mostly a sightseeing tour, emergency medical treatment and evacuation insurance will be needed to have an extra bit of peace of mind. Before travelling to Nepal and Bhutan, travellers should read their policy to ensure that it covers international travelling in the two countries.
Group Tour vs Private Tour
The Nepal Bhutan Tour is offered either as an individual departure or a group tour. The two alternatives have the same itinerary and have guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodation and transportation as specified in the package.
The group tours can be used by those who travel alone and those who like to travel with other people of other backgrounds. With more flexibility in terms of travel dates, speed of sightseeing, and personal preferences, private tours are also a great option in terms of couples, families, and small groups that prefer a more personalized approach.
Extra Expenses
Nepal Bhutan Tour Package covers accommodation, transportation, sightseeing and food as enumerated in the itinerary. Nonetheless, the travelers are advised to budget their personal expenses, which would not be covered by the package price.
Other expenses might be Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, personal shopping, drinks, snacks, laundry services, guides and driver tips, optional activities and any meal that is not listed in the itinerary. It is advisable to have a small amount of money to spend on personal shopping and other surprises that may arise during the trip in the two countries to make the trip comfortable and enjoyable.
FAQs for Nepal Bhutan Tour – 10 days
General
The tour involves sightseeing in Nepal and Bhutan, hotel stay, transportation, guided tours, Bhutan visa processing and other services as indicated in the package inclusions.
This 10-day itinerary provides enough time to explore the major cultural attractions of both countries while maintaining a comfortable travel pace.
Yes. The tour is appropriate to family, couples, solo travelers and senior travelers seeking a relaxing cultural vacation.
The main attractions are Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, Paro, Tiger nest monastery, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey Valley and various UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The hike is one of Bhutan’s most popular experiences, but travelers who are unable to complete the hike can discuss alternative arrangements with the guide.
Yes. The itinerary will be modified to suit your traveling interests, time and preferences.
Traveling to both nations gives the tourists the chance to explore two different cultures of the Himalayas, historical sites, Buddhist temples, and mountainous regions in one vacation.
Preparation & Fitness
Most of the travelers of normal fitness can do the Nepal Bhutan Tour. The program mainly consists of sightseeing, walking around and travelling in a comfortable road. The most physically challenging activity is the hike to Tiger Nest Monastery.
The hike is considered moderate and usually takes about 2 to 3 hours to reach the monastery and around 1.5 to 2 hours to return. The path is in a good condition and tourists have the freedom to walk at their own speed with frequent rest intervals.
It is suggested that comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, light jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, personal medications and travel documents should be carried. Different destinations may have different weather conditions and as such it is best to pack warm and cold.
The majority of destinations are at moderate altitudes and are friendly to travelers. The peak reached is the Tiger Nest Monastery at about 3,120 meters and most visitors do not have any major problems with altitude.
Yes. Most of the elderly tourists manage to complete this tour successfully on a yearly basis. Individuals intending to hike to Tiger Nest must have no problem walking uphill over a few hours.
Insurance & Visa
Yes. The international travelers are able to get Nepal tourist visa when they arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu.
The Bhutan visa process is organized by 3A Adventure in cooperation with our local partner once the travelers provide the necessary documents.
A passport valid for six months, passport-sized photos (where applicable) and any other forms of documents that may be requested upon booking.
You are advised to send out your copy of the passport a few weeks before the trip to ensure that before the trip, you have time to process your visa and have your travel arrangements in place.
Accommodation and Facilities
In both Nepal and Bhutan, accommodation is offered in comfortable hotels chosen due to their location, cleanliness, and the quality of their services.
Yes. Hotels in the tour typically have individual rooms with attached bathrooms and normal contemporary amenities.
Yes. The majority of hotels are equipped with WiFi, but the internet speed can be different based on the place.
Yes. Vegetarian food is generally found in large quantities across Nepal and Bhutan, and most food needs can be met with a little prior planning.
Yes. It is better to know before the tour starts so that whenever possible we can make appropriate meal arrangements.
Weather & Seasons
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best seasons due to pleasant temperatures and clearer mountain views.
Yes. The weather during winter is also pretty stable in most regions but it is also colder in the mornings and evenings especially in Bhutan.
Yes. The tour is conducted during the monsoon though incidences of rainfall can interfere with sightseeing and visibility of the mountain particularly in Nepal.
During clear days, Kathmandu to Paro flights offer great sceneries of the Himalayan mountain range.
Weather can be different according to the season and location. The daytime is expected to be hot, with cold mornings and evenings.
Health & Safety
Yes. Nepal and Bhutan are both favorite cultural tourism sites, and the itinerary is based on established tourist trails.
Yes. It is highly encouraged to purchase travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and flight delays and any other unforeseen circumstances.
Yes. In Kathmandu, Paro, and Thimphu, hospitals and medical clinics are present and basic healthcare facilities are present in other towns.
Report to your guide. They will help you to organize the right medical care in case of necessity.
Yes. Bottled drinking water is widely available throughout the tour.
Booking & Payment
It is advisable to make reservations at least a few weeks prior, especially during the spring and fall seasons, which are very busy.
Yes. Individuals, couples, and small groups may participate in fixed departures as per availability.
Yes. You can make your own arrangements based on the travel dates and group size you choose privately.
In Nepal, payments may be made through bank transfer, online payment, or cash.
Yes. This is done by giving a full pre-departure briefing and travel advice, packing tips, and other helpful information before the tour sets in.
Transportation & Flight
The tour involves a series of international flights between Kathmandu and Paro in both directions.
Yes. Airport transfers in Kathmandu and Paro are covered as per the itinerary.
Airport transfers, sightseeing and road transport during the tour are done by comfortable private vehicles.
Yes. The majority of the roads between Paro, Thimphu, Punakha and Gangtey are in good condition, but they follow the meandering mountainous paths.
Yes. Additional airport transfers can usually be arranged upon request for an extra cost.