Asia / Nepal
Nepal15day
15 Days
The Ultimate 15-Day Nepal & Bhutan Discovery Tour

Nepal, nestled in the southern foothills of the Himalayas, boasts a diverse terrain, ranging from the towering Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, to lowland tropical plains. It is a popular destination for mountaineering, hiking, and cultural exploration. The capital, Kathmandu, boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhu, blending Hindu and Buddhist cultures. Bhutan, a small, landlocked country that prioritizes environmental protection, is renowned for its preservation of traditional culture and its high Gross National Happiness Index. The capital, Thimphu, and the ancient city of Paro retain intact dzong architecture, and the renowned Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched atop a cliff, is a landmark of Bhutan. Although the two countries share a common border, their entry policies and travel experiences differ significantly. Nepal offers greater freedom and relatively affordable travel, while Bhutan adopts a high-end, limited-quota tourism model, attracting travelers seeking unique and tranquil experiences.

 


Departure City
Kathmandu
Arrival City
Kathmandu
Passed Cities
Kathmandu
Paro
Punakha
Nagarkot
Chitwan
Pokhara
Departure Dates & Prices
No departure dates available
Day1
USA - Kathmandu, Nepal

Depart from the United States and take a flight to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal

Day2
Kathmandu, Nepal

Arrive at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. After a warm welcome by your tour guide, transfer to your hotel for check-in and rest.

Accommodation: Kathmandu

Day3
Kathmandu, Nepal

Attractions: Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kumari Temple

Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of Nepal's largest stupas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the majestic architecture and sacred atmosphere of this sacred site.

Next, journey to Swayambhunath Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. Climb the steep steps to the stupa, where the iconic eye motif on its summit comes into view. Admire the iconic stupa, its intricate carvings, and its inhabited monkeys, while taking in panoramic views of Kathmandu. After lunch, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square to admire the ancient palaces, temples, and courtyards.

Visit Kumari Palace and witness the birth of the living goddess Kumari.

 Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Kathmandu

Day4
Nepal: Kathmandu, Nepal - Flight to Paro, Bhutan - Thimphu, Bhutan

Attractions: Post Office, National Monument, Tashi Chok Dzong

 

After breakfast, depart for Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight to Paro, Bhutan. Upon arrival in Paro, your Bhutanese guide and driver will warmly greet you and accompany you throughout the tour.

Your Bhutanese journey begins at the Bhutan Post Office, where you will view unique stamps and learn about Bhutan's philatelic history.

Next, visit the National Monument, a stupa dedicated to Bhutan's third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. In the tranquil atmosphere, you can pray around the altar and spin a prayer wheel.

Continue to Tashi Chok Dzong, the "Fortress of Magnificent Religion," the seat of Bhutan's government and central monastic institutions. Visit the dzong's beautifully decorated courtyards, temples, and administrative offices. Then, travel to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital, nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by lush mountains.

Check in to your hotel in Thimphu and rest briefly. Dinner will be served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant, offering a more European-style cuisine.


Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Thimphu

Day5
Thimphu - Punakha

Attractions: Degim Zoo, Chimi Lhakhang, Punakha Dzong

After breakfast, you'll begin your day in Thimphu. First, visit the Degim Sanctuary to observe the Degim, Bhutan's national animal, roaming freely in its protected habitat.

Next, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a famous fertility temple dedicated to Drukpa Ganle, known as the "Sacred Madman." Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque countryside, passing charming villages and terraced rice paddies, ultimately reaching the temple.

Continue to Punakha, a picturesque valley renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty.

Upon arrival in Punakha, visit Punakha Dzong, situated at the confluence of the Pu and Mo rivers. Admire the majestic dzong and admire its exquisite woodwork, murals, and sacred artifacts. After the tour, check in to the Punakha Hotel and relax in tranquil surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Punakha

Day6
Punakha -Paro

Visiting Attractions: Doshung La Pass, 108 Stupas, Paro Dzong – Rinpung

 After breakfast, depart Punakha and drive to Paro, a picturesque valley town in western Bhutan.

 En route, you'll cross Doshung La Pass, a mountain pass adorned with prayer flags. On a clear day, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. Take time to soak in the magnificent scenery and capture unforgettable photographs. Visit the 108 Stupas at Doshung La Pass, a tranquil and sacred site featuring 108 memorial stupas, each symbolizing victory over Tibetan aggression. Pay your respects and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this spiritual landmark.

 Continue to Paro and check into your hotel upon arrival. Lunch will be served at a restaurant along the way.

 In the afternoon, visit Rinpung Dzong, a dzong monastery overlooking the Paro Valley. See the exquisite architecture, beautiful murals, and sacred relics within the dzong. After the visit, return to your hotel and relax.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Paro

Day7
Paro

Attraction: Taktsang Monastery

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable hike to Taktsang Monastery, one of Bhutan's most iconic and sacred sites. The hike to Taktsang Monastery takes approximately 2-3 hours, traversing dense forests and ascending steep slopes. Along the way, marvel at the breathtaking views of the Paro Valley below. Upon arrival at Taktsang Monastery, explore the monastery complex perched atop a steep cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters. Learn about the legends and spiritual significance associated with this revered site. After visiting Taktsang Monastery, soak in the tranquil atmosphere and begin the descent back to the trailhead.

The rest of the afternoon is free for some souvenir shopping or to relax at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Paro

Day8
Paro, Bhutan - Flight to Nagarkot, Kathmandu, Nepal

Attractions: Patan Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport and return to Kathmandu.

 Upon arrival in Kathmandu, travel by car to Patan Durbar Square for a sightseeing tour. Located in the ancient city of Patan, it is renowned for its exquisite architecture, temples, and palaces.

 After lunch, travel by car to Nagarkot, a charming mountain town known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on a clear day.

 En route, visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, temples, and traditional Newari culture. Visit the ancient city squares, palaces, and courtyards, and immerse yourself in its rich history and heritage.

Continue to Nagarkot and check into the hotel upon arrival.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Nagarkot

Day9
Nagarkot - Chitwan

Attractions: Tharu Village, Tharu Dance

 

Wake up early to witness the spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas from Nagarkot. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, enjoying views of the snow-capped peaks. After breakfast, depart from Nagarkot for Chitwan, located in the subtropical lowlands of Nepal.

 Upon arrival in Chitwan, check into the hotel and rest.

 In the evening, enjoy a traditional cultural dance performance featuring vibrant costumes, upbeat music, and dynamic choreography, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the local Tharu people.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation: Chitwan

 

Day10
Chitwan

Activities: Elephant trekking, canoe rafting, jungle trekking, and other jungle activities

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, as today is dedicated to exciting jungle activities in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Begin your day with an exhilarating elephant-backed safari through the dense jungle, offering a unique opportunity to spot wildlife such as rhinos, deer, monkeys, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat.

After the safari, enjoy a tranquil canoe trip along the Naputi River, observing the tranquil surroundings and possibly encountering crocodiles and water birds. Embark on a thrilling jungle safari with an experienced guide who will lead you through the jungle and introduce you to the area's flora and fauna. Dinner will be served at the hotel, featuring delicious cuisine made from fresh local ingredients.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation: Chitwan

Day11
Chitwan - Lumbini

Attractions: Lumbini Gardens, Temples of Various Nations

After breakfast, depart Chitwan and drive to Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, located in Nepal's Rupandehi region. Upon arrival in Lumbini, check in to your hotel and relax.

In the afternoon, visit the UNESCO-listed Lumbini Gardens, where you will visit sacred pilgrimage sites related to the life of the Buddha. These include the Maya Temple, the Ashoka Pillar, and various monastic precincts representing different nations.

The remaining time will be spent enjoying the tranquil surroundings and visiting the temples and monasteries scattered throughout the complex.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Lumbini

Day12
Lumbini - Pokhara

Attraction: David's Falls

After breakfast, depart Lumbini and drive to Pokhara, one of Nepal's most beautiful destinations nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, check in to your hotel and rest. Proceed to visit David Falls, also known as Patale Chhango, a stunning waterfall located southwest of Pokhara. Marvel at the cascading water and unique geological formations.

 Enjoy delicious lunch at the restaurant.

 Spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the vibrant Pokhara Lakeside area, known for its shops, cafes, and breathtaking views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding mountains.

 Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Pokhara

Day13
Pokhara

Attractions: Sunrise at Sarangkot, Boating on Phewa Lake, Shakti Temple, World Peace Stupa

 

In the morning, watch the sunrise from Sarangkot, a mountaintop viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Annapurna and Mount Dhaulagiri. Watch as the sun illuminates the snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

 After appreciating the sunrise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

 Next, enjoy a peaceful boating experience on Phewa Lake, Nepal's second-largest lake. As you paddle on the lake, admire the tranquil water and reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Visit the Shakti Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess, located on a small island in the middle of Phewa Lake. Explore the temple and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.

Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring the flavors of local and international cuisine.

In the afternoon, visit the World Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa built atop a hill overlooking the Pokhara Valley. Take in the panoramic views and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Return to the hotel to relax after a day of exploring.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Accommodation: Pokhara

Day14
Pokhara - Kathmandu

Attractions: Thamel Street, Traditional Nepalese Dance Performance

After breakfast, check out of your hotel in Pokhara and begin your journey back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check in to your hotel and rest.

In the evening, explore Thamel Street, Kathmandu's bustling commercial and tourist center. Explore the narrow alleyways lined with shops selling handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and soak up the sights and sounds of this lively neighborhood.

 

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali meal at a local restaurant, sampling authentic dishes such as dal bhat (lentil and rice), momos (dumplings), and Newari cuisine. Enjoy a cultural dance performance and immerse yourself in Nepal's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

 Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner (Nepali)

Accommodation: Kathmandu

Day15
Kathmandu, Nepal – USA / or proceed to your next stop

Depart to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport, concluding your unforgettable Nepal-Bhutan journey.

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