Best Time to Visit:
The ideal times to experience the Wonderful Nepal & Bhutan Tour are March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is generally mild, offering clear skies and pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The spring months (March to May) bring blooming flowers and lush greenery, particularly in the Kathmandu Valley, making it an ideal time for cultural exploration. In Bhutan, the cooler months of autumn (September to November) showcase clear mountain views and vibrant fall foliage, making this the best time for hiking to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and exploring the serene landscapes of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
On the other hand, winter (December to February) can be quite cold, especially in the higher altitudes of Bhutan, which may affect trekking and outdoor activities, although the views are still stunning. Similarly, the monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rains, making some trails slippery and certain roads impassable, though the landscapes are lush and green. Asiana Treks & Tours recommends traveling during the spring and autumn months for the best combination of pleasant weather and breathtaking views.
Difficulty Level:
The difficulty level of the Wonderful Nepal & Bhutan Tour is rated as easy to moderate, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The tour includes a combination of sightseeing and moderate outdoor activities, such as short hikes and cultural explorations. Most of the walking is done at a leisurely pace, allowing you to take in the sights and enjoy the vibrant cultures of Kathmandu, Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.
The highlight of this tour is the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Monastery), which is a moderate challenge. The hike involves a gradual ascent through forested trails, taking around 4-5 hours for most travelers. While the trek is not extremely strenuous, it does require a reasonable level of fitness due to the altitude and the ascent. Asiana Treks & Tours ensures that the itinerary is designed to accommodate a wide range of fitness levels, with ample time for rest and acclimatization before tackling this iconic hike.
Accommodation:
On the Wonderful Nepal & Bhutan Tour, accommodation is carefully selected to provide comfort and a genuine cultural experience. In Nepal, you’ll stay in comfortable hotels that are centrally located in Kathmandu, allowing easy access to cultural landmarks and shopping areas. These hotels offer modern amenities, warm hospitality, and rooms equipped with everything you need for a restful night after a day of sightseeing.
In Bhutan, the experience gets even more immersive with stays in Bhutanese-style lodges and resorts that reflect the country’s unique architecture and traditions. These accommodations combine rustic charm with comfort, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, guests will enjoy spacious rooms, local Bhutanese cuisine, and serene environments that allow them to unwind and connect with nature. Asiana Treks & Tours ensures that all accommodations meet high standards of cleanliness, comfort, and authenticity.
Visa Requirements:
For the Nepal & Bhutan Tour, visa requirements vary depending on the nationality of the traveler. Nepal generally offers visa-on-arrival services for most nationalities, which can be processed at the Kathmandu airport. However, travelers are encouraged to check the latest visa guidelines to ensure they meet the requirements before departure. Asiana Treks & Tours will provide you with guidance on the necessary documents for obtaining a visa to Nepal, including the visa fee and application process.
For Bhutan, visas must be obtained in advance, as the country operates a special visa system. All visitors traveling to Bhutan need to book their trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator like Asiana Treks & Tours, which will handle the visa application on your behalf. Bhutan visas are processed as part of your tour booking, and Asiana Treks & Tours will provide all the necessary documentation. The process typically takes around 2-3 weeks, so travelers are advised to book their tour well in advance. Additionally, Bhutan requires a daily tariff, which includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and a licensed guide, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free travel experience.
Trip itineraries are customizable according to your timetable and budget. Simply, Contact Us.
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by an Asiana Treks & Tours representative who will assist you with your transfer to your hotel. The drive from the airport to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu will take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Check into your hotel and take some time to rest and recover from your journey. Later in the evening, you may choose to take a short stroll around Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and shop for local crafts or enjoy a delicious Nepali dinner.
After breakfast at your hotel, get ready to explore the cultural riches of Kathmandu. Your guide will take you on a tour of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beginning with the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). Situated atop a hill, this ancient stupa offers a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley and is an important site for both Buddhists and Hindus. Next, visit the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples in Nepal, located on the banks of the Bagmati River. It is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, where you can witness the sacred cremation rituals.
After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and most famous stupas in the world, a center of Tibetan Buddhism. In the afternoon, return to your hotel for a briefing on the upcoming trek. You’ll also have the opportunity to check your gear and prepare for your journey ahead.
This morning, enjoy a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan, which is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas. On the flight, you may catch glimpses of some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be met by your Bhutanese guide, who will escort you to your vehicle for the drive to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.
The drive from Paro to Thimphu is around 55 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours. The scenic drive winds through beautiful valleys, alongside rivers, and past charming villages. Upon arrival in Thimphu, check in to your hotel and enjoy the serene beauty of the city. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing you to rest and adjust to the altitude.
After breakfast, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Thimphu, the vibrant heart of Bhutan. The first stop is the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, where locals come to pray and circumambulate the stupa. From here, head to the Tashichho Dzong, a majestic fortress that houses the King’s office and the central monastic body. This impressive structure is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.
In the afternoon, visit the Buddha Dordenma Statue, a massive bronze statue of Buddha that stands 51.5 meters tall and overlooks the Thimphu Valley. The site offers a stunning panoramic view of the city below. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Bhutan Folk Heritage Museum to learn about traditional Bhutanese life. As the day winds down, explore the local markets for unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, perfect for taking home a piece of Bhutan’s culture.
After breakfast, leave Thimphu behind and embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, located about 75 kilometers away. The journey takes you through lush valleys and dense forests. As you drive, stop at the Dochula Pass (3,100 m), where you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the Eastern Himalayas, including the snow-capped peaks of Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan's highest mountain.
Upon arrival in Punakha, check in to your hotel and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Punakha Valley. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece situated at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers. This fortress is considered one of the most beautiful in Bhutan and is home to the country’s most important religious relics. You will have the opportunity to stroll around the dzong’s grounds, exploring its courtyards and temples.
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Paro. On the way, stop at the Chimi Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility, located in a picturesque valley. The temple is known for its association with the legendary Lama Drukpa Kunley, or the "Divine Madman." The hike to the temple is short and enjoyable, with beautiful views of the surrounding rice fields. Continue your journey back to Paro, and upon arrival, check in to your hotel.
In the late afternoon, you can take a leisurely walk around Paro Town, which is smaller and quieter than Thimphu but no less charming. You might want to explore the local handicraft stores, visit the Paro Dzong, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the Paro Valley.
Today is one of the most exciting days of the tour. After breakfast, embark on a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. Situated 3,120 meters above sea level on a cliffside, this monastery is renowned for its mystical setting and spiritual significance.
The hike to Tiger’s Nest takes around 4 to 5 hours, with several rest stops along the way. As you ascend, enjoy the lush forest and the spectacular views of the valley below. Upon reaching the monastery, you will have the opportunity to explore its sacred temples and meditation rooms, which are believed to have been the site where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated in the 8th century. The hike and the monastery visit will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Bhutan experience.
After descending, return to Paro for a relaxing evening.
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. On your flight back, enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, marking the end of your Bhutan adventure. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you can choose to explore the city further or simply relax before your onward journey. If you wish, we can arrange additional tours in Kathmandu to make the most of your time.
On the final day of your wonderful Nepal & Bhutan tour with Asiana Treks & Tours, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your international flight. We hope you leave with lasting memories of your adventure through the spiritual lands of Nepal and Bhutan. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on another journey in the future!