AEI-33 Nepal and Bhutan Combined 8N-9D
Expert Rating: Asia Escapes
“This itinerary through the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon is one of the most authentic and transformative experiences available today. It stands out as a fully immersive journey , where modernity has barely altered ancient traditions. The program is designed with a perfect rhythm: it begins in the capital, Thimphu , to understand the contemporary culture; descends to the temperate valley of Punakha to enjoy rural landscapes; and culminates with the spiritual challenge of the Tiger’s Nest in Paro. It is the ideal choice for those seeking luxury not based on material possessions, but on silence, fresh air, and inner peace.”
Nepal | Bhutan |
Nepal – Where the mountains touch the sky! Nepal is a magical kingdom nestled among the giants of the Himalayas, a country where spirituality, nature, and adventure coexist in perfect harmony. Known as the land of the world’s eight highest peaks—including the majestic Mount Everest—Nepal has been a destination that inspires awe, devotion, and exploration for centuries. Protected by the highest mountain range on the planet, Nepal has preserved a unique cultural richness, influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism, whose traditions coexist peacefully. Its medieval temples, golden pagodas, monasteries clinging to the mountains, and royal palaces tell stories of ancient kingdoms and dynasties that left an unparalleled artistic legacy. This country of verdant valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and legendary mountains offers an irresistible combination: breathtaking landscapes, warm and friendly people, vibrant cities like Kathmandu, and remote villages where time seems to stand still. Nepal captivates with its diversity: from the subtropical jungles of Chitwan, home to tigers and rhinos, to the snow-capped peaks of Annapurna and Everest, which attract mountaineers and trekkers from around the world. Those who travel through Nepal discover a destination where adventure blends with spirituality, where each sunrise over the mountains is a reverence for nature, and where the genuine smiles of its people become the most cherished memories of the trip. Facts and figures
| Bhutan – Happiness is a place! Bhutan is known worldwide as the Last Shangri-La. It was the majestic Himalayas that protected Bhutan from the rest of the world and kept this Himalayan jewel in a state of undisturbed serenity. The Drukpa Kagyu school of Mahayana Buddhism provided the essence of a rich culture and fascinating history. The Bhutanese people protected this sacred legacy and their unique identity for centuries, choosing to remain in carefully preserved isolation. This country of rolling hills and rugged mountains exudes a special charm. The mountains are magnificent, the forests are dense, the people are charming, the air is pure, the architecture is inspiring, the religion is vibrant, and the art is exceptional. Like timeless images from the past, the traveler encounters the full splendor of this ancient land through its strategic fortresses known as Dzongs , numerous ancient temples, monasteries, and stupas that dot the landscape, prayer flags waving on high ridges, wildlife that abounds in the dense forests, white, frothy waterfalls that resemble ethereal showers, and the warm smiles of its friendly inhabitants. With its beautiful and largely untouched Himalayan environment, its rich flora and fauna, and its vibrant Buddhist culture, Bhutan has become an increasingly popular destination for international tourists. Facts and figures
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Day 01. arrival in Kathmandu or Delhi or Kolkata
Arrival, assistance and transfer to the hotel, and the rest of the time is free to relax. Accommodation.
Day 02. Kathmandu-Paro-Thimphu (55 km, approx. 1.5 hours by car)
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Paro. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to Thimphu. This is one of the most breathtaking experiences in the entire Himalayan region. During the flight, you will enjoy captivating views and an exhilarating descent into the Kingdom of Bhutan. As you disembark, the first welcome gift Bhutan offers is its fresh, pure, and crystalline mountain air.
After completing immigration formalities and collecting your luggage, our representative will give you a warm welcome with the presentation of a traditional tashi khaddar, a white scarf symbolizing an auspicious reception for guests.
Arrival in Thimphu and check-in at the hotel .
Thimphu, the center of government, religion, and commerce, blends modern development with ancient traditions. With approximately 130,000 inhabitants , it is still the only capital city in the world without traffic lights.
In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten , a large white structure crowned by a golden spire. It is one of the city’s most iconic monuments and a popular meeting place for locals, who come to circumambulate the stupa, spin the prayer wheels, and pray in the small inner shrine.
Afterward, enjoy an exploratory walk through Thimphu’s main street and market.
You will explore Ka Ja Throm (formerly the Centenary Farmers Market), a revitalized urban space where leisure, culture, gastronomy, crafts, and local life converge. It is one of the city’s most vibrant spots. Overnight in Thimphu (2,320 m).
Day 03. Thimphu
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, a short drive north of the city to visit Buddha Dordenma , an imposing statue located in Kuenselphodrang National Park. This gigantic gilded bronze figure, standing 51.5 meters tall , brings to life an ancient prophecy from the 8th century. Inside, it houses 125,000 gilded bronze Buddha statues. The site offers an ideal atmosphere for meditation.
Afterward, you will begin an easy 1.5-hour walk from Buddha Dordenma to Changangkha Lhakhang . The path is lined with thousands of prayer flags waving in the breeze, pine, birch, and rhododendron forests, and dotted with small viewpoints to enjoy the scenery.
Visit Changangkha Lhakhang , an ancient temple founded in the 12th century by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, from Tibet and considered the founder of the Drukpa school in Bhutan. The temple houses the eleven-headed Chenrezig statue, a symbol of compassion. Traditionally, families come here to ask for blessings for newborns.
Visit the Drubthob Goema/Zilukha Nunnery , the only nunnery in the capital, situated on a promontory overlooking Trashichhoe Dzong and the golf course. Here you can speak with the nuns dedicated to the study and practice of Buddhism.
After lunch, visit the Zorig Chusum National Institute , the school of the 13 traditional arts and crafts. Founded in 1971, it offers courses in painting, carving, embroidery, sculpture, and other arts.
Afterward, visit the Folk Heritage Museum , dedicated to traditional rural life through exhibits and demonstrations.
Conclude the day with a visit to Trashichhoe Dzong , the “fortress of glorious religion,” the seat of the monarch’s throne, the head of the clergy, and the administration. Built in 1641 and restored in the 1960s without using nails or blueprints, it is an iconic example of Bhutanese architecture.
Accommodation in Thimphu (2,320 m).
Day 04. Thimphu-Punakha (75 km, approx. 2.5 hours)
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Dochu La Pass (3,088 m). Stop to enjoy the views and admire the 108 chortens known as Druk Wangyal Chortens , commissioned by Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. With good visibility, several peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas can be seen, including Gangkar Puensum , the highest in the country (7,570 m).
Continue to Punakha , the former capital of the kingdom and still the winter residence of the Je Khenpo (head of the clergy). The fertile valley is fed by the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong , the “Palace of Great Happiness,” built in 1637 at the confluence of these two rivers. It is one of the most impressive and best-preserved dzongs, with a rich religious and historical legacy.
In the afternoon, hike to Chimi Lhakhang , the fertility temple. The trail passes through rice paddies and the village of Pana. According to tradition, childless couples receive special blessings here. Overnight in Punakha (1,300 m).
Day 05. Punakha
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, a 2-hour round-trip hike up to the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten , built to promote peace and harmony in the world. From here, you’ll have magnificent views of the Gasa Valley and mountains.
Afterward, you’ll cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge , one of the longest in Bhutan (160 m), with prayer flags waving over the Mo Chhu River.
After lunch, visit the Wangduephodrang Dzong , founded in 1638 and restored after the 2012 fire. Its strategic location on a ridge allowed it to control key routes in the country.
Next, explore the charming village of Rinchengang , known for its compact traditional houses and its history linked to the artisans who helped build the dzong in the 17th century. It is one of the oldest villages in the country, surrounded by rice paddies and offering spectacular views. Overnight in Punakha (1,300 m).
Day 06. Punakha-Paro (125 km, approx. 4 hours)
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Paro via a scenic route.
Arrival and check-in at the hotel. The Paro
Valley is renowned for its ancient temples, natural beauty, legends, and cultural significance. It is home to the National Museum , numerous monasteries, and the country’s only international airport. From its northern end, Mount Chomolhari (7,314 m) dominates the landscape. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong , a former watchtower now a national museum, with collections of thangkas, textiles, weapons, and historical artifacts. Descend on foot to Rinpung Dzong , the “jewel pile fortress,” famous for its extraordinary murals depicting Buddhist themes. Visit a traditional Bhutanese house , where you can learn about the local architecture, sample typical cuisine, and gain insight into rural life. Overnight in Paro (2,280 m).
Day 07. Stop-Excursion to the Tiger's Nest
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) , one of the most sacred sites in the country, perched on a cliff 900 meters above the valley. The hike takes approximately 5 hours round trip. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived here riding a tigress and meditated, consecrating the site.
On the return journey, visit Kyichu Lhakhang , a 7th-century temple built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, one of the oldest in Bhutan and a symbol of the arrival of Buddhism in the country.
In the afternoon, free time to explore the market and center of Paro .
Overnight in Paro (2,280 m).
Day 08. Strike / Kathmandu (Flight)
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel. Overnight stay.
Day 09. Departure from Kathmandu or Delhi or Kolkata
Breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight.
Our price includes
- 2 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Kathmandu
- 6 nights’ accommodation with full board according to hotels in Bhutan
- Local guide service in the client’s language: English, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Italian, French and Turkish.
- Assistance at airports and train stations by an English-speaking representative.
- Entrance fees to the monuments according to the program.
- Bhutan Visa
- Nightly tax of USD 100 per person from the Government of Bhutan
- Current rates applicable at this time.
Our price does not include
- Tip for guide, driver,
- Camera fees at monuments.
- Extra expenses at the hotel such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
- Any other service not specified in “the price includes”
Cities | Highlights |
Thimphu | The Capital Without Traffic Lights: The Dordenma Buddha (one of the world’s largest bronze statues) and the Zorig Chusum Institute, where the 13 traditional arts are preserved. |
Dochu-la Pass | Himalayan Lookout: The 108 commemorative chortens and, on clear days, one of the most breathtaking views of the world’s highest snow-capped peaks. |
Punakha | Architecture and Legend: The Punakha Dzong , the most beautiful palace in Bhutan at the confluence of two rivers, and the picturesque Fertility Temple (Chimi Lhakhang). |
Rinchengang Village | Rural Heritage: A visit to one of the oldest villages, famous for its compact stone architecture and rice terraces. |
Arrest | The Cultural Heart: The National Museum (Ta Dzong) and the experience of entering a traditional house to learn about the daily life of the Bhutanese. |
Tiger’s Nest | The Icon of the Kingdom: The hike to Taktshang Monastery , perched on a cliff 900 meters high. It is the most sacred and recognized image in the country. |
BHUTAN VISA REQUIREMENTS |
Required documents: |
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REQUIREMENTS FOR A NEPAL VISA |
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Monument closure days in Bhutan (updated information)
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CITIES / NIGHTS | HOTELS CAT. 4* OR SIMILAR | 5-STAR HOTELS OR SIMILAR |
Kathmandu | Shambala or Similar | Hyatt Centric |
Thimphu | Lemon Tree Resort | Le Meridien |
Punakha | Lobesa Boutique Hotel | Dhensa Boutique |
Stoppage | Tenzinling Luxury Tent Villa | Le Meridien |
Kathmandu | Shambala or Similar | Hyatt Centric |
Important note: In the event that a hotel is unavailable due to weddings, conferences, or other local events, alternative accommodation of the same category will be offered. |
