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Bhutan and Nepal Tour – Myths, Culture and Nature

Buddhistische Mönche Nepal und Bhutan Reise
Bhutan Bhutan

Trekking Map

On this tour you will truly be led into a colorful world full of original traditions, religion, nature and culture. This trip takes you to the heart of Himalaya, through Bhutan and Nepal.

You will have time to explore the important religious and cultural sites in both countries, marvel at the myths, come into contact with the locals and be impressed by the panoramas of the world’s most beautiful mountains.

In Nepal you will be amazed by the colorful culture, nature and mountains. You will then travel to the land of the thunder dragon Bhutan for seven days and admire its sights and festivals in Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey and Punakha.
Bhutan, consciously decided against globalization and thus remained a hidden paradise. Since mass tourism could have a negative impact on nature, culture and other values ​​of the country, the Bhutanese government deliberately sets its tourist fees high. It subordinates national income to “national happiness”. Based on the principle of “high experience with little impact” and in accordance with the motto “take nothing with you but memories and leave nothing behind but footprints”, tourism is carefully regulated. Bhutanese culture and literature, ceremonies, crafts and religious myths will take you into a unique world.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport – Introduction and welcome dinner
Arrival in Kathmandu. You will be picked up at the airport and driven to your hotel. In the late afternoon we will explain the details of the trip with you, and in the evening you are invited to a welcome dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu Guest House or similar category (D).

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing – Swayambunath / Pashupatinath / Boudhanath
Today you will explore Kathmandu with a local guide. The most popular places are the Buddhist / Hindu temple Swayambhunath, which is also called the monkey temple, is reached by a long staircase and offers great views of Kathmandu. Other important sights are the Hindu temple complex of Pashupatinath located on the banks of the Bagmati River, with cremation sites, and the holy Buddhist Boudhanath Stupa which is decorated with colourful prayer flags. This stupa has been an attraction for Buddhist pilgrims for many centuries, who repeatedly circled the structure, turning prayer wheels, praying and mumbling mantras (kora). Overnight in Hotel Kathmandu Guest House or similar category, (B).

Day 3: Drive to Bhaktapur – sightseeing
After breakfast, pick up your sightseeing guide for the sightseeing tour. Bhaktapur is an ancient Newari and royal city in the eastern Kathmandu Valley. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its deep culture, temple and wooden, metal and stone works of art. There we will visit Layaku, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairab Nath Temple and Dattatraya Temple. There are also numerous museums where you can learn about the craftsmanship of the local Newar people. The afternoon is at your leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel Bhaktapur Heritage House or similar category, (B).

Day 4: Drive to Pharping – sightseeing – afternoon time in the monastery
The monastery offers time for relaxation, reflection and participation in monastic life. Almost 200 monks/child monks live and study here and you have the opportunity to gain insights into their Buddhist life. At lunchtime you can look forward to a wide range of dishes with fresh organic products and, if you are interested, you can take part in yoga or meditation courses for an additional cost. We recommend a leisurely hike into the surrounding area, where you can explore rural Nepal and visit other monasteries. It is also interesting to visit the small Asura cave nearby, where Padmasambhava found enlightenment while meditating. Overnight stay in the Neydo Monastery inn or similar, (B|D).

Day 5: Daily monastery life until midday and drive to Kathmandu
We start today at 5:00 a.m. First we listen to the morning chants of the monks and then have breakfast. After breakfast we can go on an easy hike in the area. You will be picked up from midday and driven to Kathmandu. Overnight stay at Kathmandu Guest House or Hotel Tibet, (B).

Day 6: Transfer to Kathmandu airport for flight to Paro, then drive to Thimphu
With the flight to Paro and constantly changing panoramic views of some of the highest mountains in the world, one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world awaits you. After landing and completing the visa formalities, there is a 20-minute drive to Paro (2,200m). From here we walk to Paro Dzong and cross a cantilever bridge. After lunch we continue to Thimphu, the country’s capital located at 2,300 meters. In Thimphu we will check into our hotel and you can recover from the strenuous journey. In the evening we listen to hundreds of Bhutanese songs and walk around the local stupa monument (Memorial Chorten). Overnight stay in Pelyang Boutique or similar category, (B|L|D).

Day 7: Thimphu to Punakha (71 km, approx. 3 hours drive) – Dochula Pass and visit to the Mad Man`s Temple
Today we drive to the Punakha Valley (1,240m). Punakha served as Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and is now the winter residence of the central monks’ association. On the way we will stop at Do Chula Pass at 3,150 meters to view the 108 chortens built in three levels. With a bit of luck and good weather conditions, we will be able to see the main Himalayan ridge from there. If visibility is good, we should also be able to see Gangkar Puensum (7,570m), the world’s highest unclimbed mountain.In Messina we will stop for lunch. Afterwards there is a visit to the Mad Man’s Temple (Chimi Lhakang). The temple, built in 1499, stands on a small hill in the middle of the valley. It was dedicated to the Lama Drukpa Kunley (1455-1529) – also known as the “Divine Madman” – who was known for his humor, his songs and also his outrageous behavior. Childless couples who pray at this temple are said to then find happiness. In Punakha we will first check into our hotel and have the afternoon at leisure. There are various activities available such as archery, learning to cook Bhutanese and/or taking a hot stone bath (typical type of steam bath). Overnight in Meri Puensom or similar, (B|L|D).

Day 8: In the Morning sightseeing Punakha Dzong and drive to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley); Afternoon hike – 80 km, approx. 3 hours
After breakfast we will drive along the Pho Chu River in Punakha and cross a suspension bridge. After a short and gentle walk we reach the historic monastery fortress “Punakha Dzong” from the 17th century. This inspiring palace was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637, houses many sacred relics and was the seat of government.
We then leave the main road and drive up to the Lawala Pass and the beautiful Gangtey Valley. If possible, we can visit the ruins of Wangdue Dzong along the way. After lunch there will be enough time to explore one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys. The Phobjikha Valley is a U-shaped glacial valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountains and borders Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. The valley is home to one of the most impressive ancient Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan known as Gangteng Monastery, which is why some people refer to the entire region as Gangtey. It is one of the most important nature reserves in the country due to the large flock of black-necked cranes that winter here. It offers beautiful hiking trails and nature walks so visitors can experience the tranquility and natural beauty up close. Overnight stay in the Hotel Dewachen or similar category, (B|M|A).

Day 9: Day in Gangtey / Phobjikha Valley – Easy hike in the valley
The valley is home to some of the most biodiverse wetlands in Bhutan. Look out for barking deer, sambar deer and wild boars. Himalayan black bears have been spotted in the valley and there is an abundance of birdlife. The graceful black-necked cranes from Tibet also come here during the winter season. The cranes usually arrive towards the end of October and circle the monastery three times when they arrive! They spend the winter in the valley and in the spring they fly around the monastery three times again and then return to Tibet on a dangerous flight for the summer. We can also visit the Black Crane Information Center and Gangteng Monastery. If you feel like it, you can try out a traditional bow yourself in the afternoon to get even more in touch with the villagers. Overnight stay in the Hotel Dewachen or similar category, (B|M|A).

Day 10: Drive Gangtey via Thimphu to Paro (130 km, approx. 4 hours drive)
After a leisurely breakfast we drive back to Paro via Thimphu. The first stop in Thmphu takes us to the astrology school. We then take an easy hike (approx. 1.5 hours) through a pine forest to the Wanduetse Temple. From here we have a wonderful view of the Thimphu valley. An equally beautiful view awaits us from Buddha Point / Kuenselphodrang (2,600 m). The 52 meter high Buddha statue has become a landmark of the city of Thimphu in recent years. After the sightseeing tour we continue to Paro. The Paro Valley is considered one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys, with blue pine hills and attractive massively built houses amidst rice fields. Overnight stay in the hotel (B|M|D).

Day 11: Paro to Tiger’s Nest (3.100m) – Paro city
Today we hike up to the Tiger’s Nest (Tiger’s Nest). The most famous monastery in Bhutan was recently registered as one of the most sacred places in the world. This monastery is also the holiest in Bhutan. It towers 900 meters above the Paro valley and is known as the tiger’s nest because Guru Rimpoche allegedly came to this place on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. On the five-hour intensive but rewarding mountain tour to the monastery, on which more than 900 meters of altitude are conquered, body and soul are equally cleansed, and the sight of the monastery up close is also worth the effort. We recommend taking trekking shoes, trekking poles and plenty of water with you. Please note that there is about 100 steps up and down. Overnight at the hotel in Paro, (B|L|D).

Day 12: Flight back to Kathmandu (1,300m), rest of the day at leisure
It’s time to say goodbye to Bhutan soon! Today you say goodbye to your guide and driver and are driven to the airport in Paro to fly to Nepal/Kathmandu. You will be picked up from Kathmandu Airport and driven to your hotel. The rest of the day can be used as freetime. Overnight stay in Kathmandu Guest House or similar, (F).

Day 13: Leisure day in Kathmandu
Today is free for you to spend relaxing, sightseeing or shopping in Thamel. A good last opportunity to get a few souvenirs at short notice. Overnight stay at Hotel Kathmandu Guest House or similar category, (F).

Day 14: Flight back home
Farewell and transfer to Kathmandu airport. End of the journey, (F).

We reserve the right to make program changes due to special events, force majeure or weather reasons.

B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner

German guided tour
English guided tour

Bhutan Festival overview: 2024 and 2025

This tour can also be booked for your individual group at an additional cost at dates other than shown here.

Duration: 14 days
Costs: 3.290€ per Person
Group size: min. 2 Persons (all the tour dates are guaranteed with a minimum group size of only 2 persons)
€ 390 for single room supplement

What’s included:

  • Airport transfers in Bhutan and Nepal
  • Flight from Kathmandu to Paro – Paro to Kathmandu
  • All relevant surface transfer
  • All hotel accommodation with breakfast in Nepal
  • Three meals in Bhutan (|B|L|D)
  • Sightseeing with entrance fees, guide and vehicle
  • Permit, National Park Entrance/Conservation Fees
  • Guide & Driver
  • Tourist fee per day and person, in Bhutan
  • Quality service

Not Included:

  • International Flights
  • Additional tours and meals that are not mentioned
  • Beverages
  • Personal bills
  • Visa Nepal (approx. US$ 50) and Bhutan ( approx. US$ 40)
  • Excess baggage charge (beyond 20 Kg each)
  • Insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects)
  • Tips

Visa
Visa fees for Bhutan are included in the price. We will provide the visa applications. Visa fees for Nepal are not included in the price and will be paid in the airport at arrival in Kathmandu (around US$ 50). Two passport size photographs must be provided for the visa. At the time of the trip your passport must be valid for at least a further six months and have at least two blank pages.
These visa and passport regulations apply to EU countries, Switzerland and the USA. Other nationals should check with the relevant consular authorities.

Vaccinations
There are no vaccinations required for traveling to Bhutan at this time. However, you should be vaccinated against, tetanus, hepatitis A and diphtheria. We recommend you consult your GP (general practitioner) in good time, about three months before your trip.

Insurance
We highly recommend the conclusion of travel cancellation insurance. In the case of bargain price flights in particular, changes or cancellations generally can’t be made free of charge.
We have requested ERGO (Reiseversicherung) to create various service packages for you. You can book travel cancellation insurance at www.reiseversicherung.de

Please note: ERGO insurance can be booked by residents of Germany and Austria. Those living in other countries are requested to book their travel insurance through an insurance provider in their own country.

It should be noted that geoDiscovery Tours advises its customers to book their travel insurance via ERGO as a recommendation only, and accepts no responsibility for the contractual content between the customer and the travel insurance provider. Customers can book their travel insurance via ERGO or another provider at their own discretion.

Flying in Bhutan and Nepal
The flights booked by us, between Nepal and Bhutan are with Bhutan Air or Druk Air. The domestic flights in Nepal booked by us are with Tara Air, Yeti Air or Buddha.

The hotels and lodges booked by us
In Nepal and Bhutan the hotels we book are good and correspond to medium-level Western standards. Sanitary facilities are clean and functional; the hotel cuisine is adapted to Western eating habits and the food is safe to enjoy. In Nepal, there may sometimes be power cuts or no hot water available for a while. The hotel staff is generally very friendly and looks after the welfare of guests. The hotels booked by us are as follows:

In Bhutan
Thimphu: Hotel Phuntsho Pelri
Phobikha: Hotel Dewachen
Bumthang: Hotel Ugyen Ling
Punakha: Meri Puensum Resort
Paro: Tashi Namgay Resort

In Nepal
Kathmandu: Hotel Tibet/Manaslu ***+
Pokhara: Mount Kailash Resort, Lake side retreat ***
Lumbini: Hotel New Crystal ***
Chitwan: Jungle Villa Resort
Nagarkot: Nagarkot Farmhouse

Tour program
The travel program for all of our recommended tours is carefully planned. It can happen, however, that roads are closed without advance notice or are impassable, that there are waiting times of several hours because of traffic congestion or fuel shortages and that specific tourist attractions are closed for various reasons. Other restrictions such as flight delays or even cancellations due to bad weather, strikes or the health of participants may also make the implementation of the travel program more difficult or at worst make it impossible. However, our local guides are prepared for such situations and will make every effort to achieve every aspect of the program to your satisfaction. As a result the inconvenience can normally be kept to a reasonable level. Nevertheless, it must be pointed out at this juncture that for the above reasons program changes are possible at any time and cannot be influenced by the organizers. The resulting costs are borne by the traveler. We ask for your understanding.

Road Situation
Despite high mountains, steep slopes, and the deepest of valleys Bhutan has a relatively well developed network of roads. It is difficult to find a length of either straight or flat road. In some stretches one can encounter 6 to 7 bends per kilometer! Steep ascents and descents are characteristic of road travel in Bhutan and this can make traveling much slower than one may be used to. The average driving speed is 40 km per hour. Travelers need to be adaptable, however.

Trip Details

  • Duration: 14 days
  • Holiday Type: Hotel Accommodation
  • Best trekking period: Oct/Nov/Dec/Feb/Mar/Apr/May
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Max Altitude: Tiger's Nest, 3.070m
  • Group size: Min. 2 persons (all the tour dates are guaranteed with a minimum group size of only 2 persons)
  • Tour guide: English speaking, trained Nepalese and Bhutanese guide
  • Difficulty:
  • Fitness:
  • Price: 3.490,00 €
  • Single room supplement: 390,00 €
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