Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour - 8 days

Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour - 8 days


Visit two Himalayan countries on a single trip with our Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour of 8 days. The multi-country tour offers you a chance to explore two famous countries for their dramatic landscape and their rich culture and tradition. Moreover, you will be visiting the UNESCO listed world heritage sites in Nepal and exploring Pokhara's natural beauty.

A journey to Bhutan starts with a scenic flight over the Himalayas. Bhutan is still an off-the-beaten-path destination and opened its doors for tourism in 1974. The iconic Tiger’s Monastery perched in a cliff has become synonymous with Bhutan. Moreover, Prince Charles and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have done Tiger’s Nest hike. A visit to Bhutan's capital, Thimphu, and other beautiful cities like Paro and Punakha on this trip will be memorable. Get a firsthand experience of local hospitality and insight into Bhutan and Nepal's rich culture and tradition with this tour package.

How Much Does This Trip Cost?

The trip's price depends on the type of services chosen by our clients and the group size. The cost of each trip we organize is different because we see travelers as individuals having their own particular needs and preferences.

Get ready for an incredible journey tailored to your interests and preferences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway. Leave the planning to us as we take care of all the details, ensuring your dream trip becomes a reality. You can relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

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Trip Highlights

  • You will be visiting UNESCO listed world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath and Bhaktapur Durbar Square are famous for their architectural beauty and cultural significance.
  • Visit the city residing in the lap of Himalayas, Pokhara. Watch a mesmerizing Himalayan sunrise from the vantage point of Sarangkot. Go boating in the calm water of Lake Phewa and visit the island Hindu temple.
  • Visit the popular touristy place of Pokhara including Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, Bindhyabasini Temple.
  • Visit the International Mountain Museum of Pokhara which displays the early mountaineering gears and equipment. 
  • Enjoy a beautiful flight from Kathmandu to Paro, Bhutan, where you see many high mountains in the world.
  • Visit notable Bhutan places, including the National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordema, Changangkha Lhakhang, Temple of Fertility, Dorchula Pass, Khamsum Yuley Lakhang and others.
  • Pay a visit to the centuries-old fortress of Bhutan like Punakha Dzong, Paro Dzong and Tashichho Dzong.
  • Go on a hike to Paro Taktsang Monastery famous as Tiger’s Nest and enjoy Paro valley's gorgeous view.

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and sightseeing
Day 2 Fly to Pokhara and explore around Lake Side - 25 minutes flight
Day 3 Pokhara Sightseeing with Sarangkot Sunrise
Day 4 Flight to Kathmandu and Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Day 5 Flight from Kathmandu to Paro, drive to Thimphu and sightseeing of Thimphu - 1 hour flight and 1:30 hours (55km) drive
Day 6 Drive from Thimphu to Punakha and Punakha sightseeing - 2 to 3 houes (85km) drive
Day 7 Drive to Paro Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3180m/10433ft) - 3 to 4 hours (125km) drive and 5 to 6 hours hike
Day 8 Final Departure from Paro

Trip Overview

Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour starts from Kathmandu and ends with a return flight from Paro. When in Kathmandu, you will be strolling in the medieval palace square which transports you in a different era. Swayambhunath and Boudhanath are two important sites for Buddhists in Nepal. Moreover, you will be visiting Pashupatinath and you might see something that you have never before, open fire cremation.

After touring Kathmandu, you will be traveling to Pokhara, which has a chill vibe. Relax in the beautiful city and visit some touristy places before returning to Kathmandu. Further, a scenic flight will take you to Paro, Bhutan from Kathmandu. Explore the popular cities of Bhutan like Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. Dzongs, monasteries and other edifices of Bhutan show the fine craftsmanship of Bhutan. A visit to Bhutan is incomplete without hiking up to the iconic Tiger’s Nest. It is a holy site of Bhutan as Guru Rimpoche, who spread Buddhism in Bhutan, is said to have meditated here. After touring different cities your trip ends in Paro. You will be flying back from the international airport at Paro.

The trip to two wonderful Himalayan countries will give you an insight into their rich culture and traditions. You will get to see religious tolerance in Nepal and you will see Hindu and Buddhist temples in the vicinity. Moreover, you will get to experience warm local hospitality in both countries. Do try local food when in Nepal and Bhutan which are delicious but often less talked about.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and sightseeing

Activities: visiting Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath Stupa Swayambhunath Stupa - An ancient religious architecture located atop a hill west of Kathmandu Valley

You will be landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. One of our representatives from Third Rock Adventures will welcome you at the airport. Further, check into your hotel and get a brief on your upcoming tour and also you can ask questions if any.

Also, it will be best to plan your arrival in Kathmandu in the morning or day time. Arriving in the daytime will give you more time to rest and go on a tour of Kathmandu. If you arrive late in Kathmandu, no worries you will be touring Kathmandu the next day before flying to Pokhara.

You will be visiting three UNESCO listed world heritages in Kathmandu- Boudhanath, Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath. Pay a visit to the biggest Buddhist Stupa of Nepal, Boudhanath which is of religious importance for Tibetan Buddhists. You will see mostly Tibetan pilgrims circumambulating the stupa during morning and evenings.

Also, visit the holy Hindu temple of Pashupatinath dedicated to Lord Shiva located on the bank of River Bagmati. Swayambhunath is a hilltop Buddhist shrine that is of religious importance for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is also called ‘Monkey Temple’ due to the abundance of monkeys. Be aware of notorious monkeys that are infamous to snatch anything that catches their interest especially packets of food and drinks. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 2
Fly to Pokhara and explore around Lake Side - 25 minutes flight

If you did not do sightseeing of Kathmandu on the previous day you will be doing the sightseeing today before your Pokhara travel.

Take a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the popular touristy city of Nepal. Enjoy a scenic flight (for the good view on the way to Pokhara right side of the plane and return left side) where you will get to see the Himalayas including Annapurna and Langtang ranges. It takes roughly 30 minutes to fly between these cities. Afternoon walking tour of Lakeside, Pokhara. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 3
Pokhara Sightseeing with Sarangkot Sunrise

Activities: Sunrise from Sarangkot, visit Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, International Mountain Museum and Bindhyabasini Temple
View of Fishtail Mountain from Sarangkot View of Fishtail Mountain ( Machhapuchare), from Sarangkot, Nepal

Wake up early to catch a mesmerizing Himalayan sunrise from the vantage point of Sarangkot. Bask in the stunning view of the Himalayas where you will see the endless chain of mountain peaks. Also, you will witness the mountain peaks including Annapurna Massif, Fishtail and others. Enjoy the amazing view of Pokhara from the hilltop including Lake Phewa.

Today you will be boating in Lake Phewa and visiting Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, International Mountain Museum and Bindhyabasini Temple. Enjoy boating in Lake Phewa's calm waters and pay a visit to the island, Hindu temple of goddess Bhagwati.

Further, the Pokhara sightseeing will take you to a Davis Fall waterfall that flows into an underground tunnel. Walk down spiral stairs into the cave and navigate your way on a wet and slippery path. Moreover, in the end, you will see the water cascading from the Davis Fall from the edge of Gupteshwar Mahadev Cave.

Your next stop will be International Mountain Museum where you will get to see gears and equipment used in the first Himalayan expeditions on display. Also, you will get information on the culture and lifestyle of people residing in the Himalayas. The last stop for the day is Bindhyabasini Temple dedicated to Hindu Goddess Durga. The temple is located on a small hill overlooking the gorgeous views of the snowy mountains. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 4
Flight to Kathmandu and Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Activities: Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Siddhi Lakshmi, Bhaktapur Siddhi Lakshmi Temple refurbished in 2018 post-earthquake of 2015

You will be taking a flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu which is around 30 minutes long. Upon reaching Kathmandu you will be exploring Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of the best-preserved heritage sites. Moreover, you will see beautiful craftsmanship at display in the form of different monuments and edifices. Take a look at 55 Windows Palace, Golden Gate, Nyatapole Temple and others. Walk through ancient streets and visit Pottery Square, Datteraya Square, Taumadhi Square, which reflects rich culture and tradition. After the tour, you will be driving back to Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 5
Flight from Kathmandu to Paro, drive to Thimphu and sightseeing of Thimphu - 1 hour flight and 1:30 hours (55km) drive

Activities: Visit National Memorial Chorten, Changanagkha Lhakhang, Statue of Buddha, Tashichho Dzong and weekend market
Tashichho Dzong Bhutan Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of the city of Thimphu in Bhutan

On this day you will be flying to Bhutan and landing at Paro International Airport. Savor the amazing views of high mountains from your window on your flight to Paro. Your guide will welcome you at the airport and you will be checking in to your hotel.

Today you will be touring the capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu. You will be visiting the National Memorial Chorten, Changanagkha Lhakhang, Statue of Buddha, Tashichho Dzong and the weekend market. Visit an iconic monument in Thimphu dedicated to world peace, the National Memorial Chorten. Pay a visit to Changanagkha Lakhang made in the 12th century and it played an important role in spreading Buddhist teachings in Bhutan.

Further, you will be visiting Tashichho Dzong which is a traditional fortress that now functions as government offices and monastery. Visit Buddha Dordema which is one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. When in Thimphu, you must visit weekend market. In the market, you can see a wide range of Bhutanese arts and crafts at the display. It is the best place to do souvenir shopping. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 6
Drive from Thimphu to Punakha and Punakha sightseeing - 2 to 3 houes (85km) drive

Activities: Visit Dorchula Pass, Chimi Lakhang, Punakha Dzong and Khamsum Yuley Lakhang
Punakha Dzong, Bhutan Punakha Dzong - Second oldest and second biggest dzong of Bhutan

Today you will be exploring Dorchula Pass, Chimi Lakhang, Punakha Dzong and Khamsum Yuley Lakhang. Start the day by visiting one of the most beautiful mountain passes, Dorchula Pass which overlooking stunning Himalayan ranges. It is significant as it was built in the commemoration of soldiers martyred in the war of 2003 against Indian insurgents. 

Visit Chimi Lakhang an esteemed temple of Bhutan also famous as the Fertility Temple. Many childless couples visit the temple to seek the blessing of a child. Moreover, couples with a newborn visit to receive blessings from a local Lama. Your next destination is Punakha Dzong. One of the most beautiful Dzongs of Bhutan is situated on the confluence of two rivers. It is also the second oldest and second biggest dzong of Bhutan.

Further, you will be visiting Khamsum Yuley Lakhang which gives you an insight into the fine Bhutanese craftsmanship. You will be hiking past paddy fields and rhododendron and pine trees on your way to this hilltop chorten. It is an awesome 4-story edifice built according to the principals delineated in the Holy Scriptures to bring peace in the world. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 7
Drive to Paro Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3180m/10433ft) - 3 to 4 hours (125km) drive and 5 to 6 hours hike

Activities: Hike to Tiger’s Nest and visit Paro Dzong and Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point
Tigernest Monastery Bhutan Bhutan's cliff-top Tiger's Nest monastery- Located in upper Paro valley in Bhutan and also called Taktsang Palphug Monastery

Today you will be driving to Paro and hiking up to Taktsang Monastery famous as the Tiger’s Nest. The iconic monastery is preached on a hilltop. You will be hiking on a trail lined with pine and rhododendron trees and descending before reaching the monastery. It is one of Bhutan's sacred places because legends state that Padmasambhava flew on a back of a Tigress to meditate here from Tibet.  It takes around 5-6 hours to complete the hike normally but time may vary depending upon one’s pace and physical fitness.

Further, you will be visiting Paro Dzong, exploring old Paro Town and visiting Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point. Paro Dzong is an extraordinary example of fine Bhutanese craftsmanship. Once a fortress, today houses a monastic body as well as government offices.

Explore the town of Paro and you could also get the opportunity to see the traditional game of Dha or archery here. It is a famous game among Bhutanese men, women and children and taken to socialize and develop relations. Since Paro's town was in close proximity to Tibet, it was susceptible to invasions while trade and commerce thrived due to the same reason.

Moreover, you will be visiting Paro Airport Bird’s Eye View Point in Paro. Bhutan’s sole International Airport in Paro has a reputation of being one of the most difficult commercial airports on the planet. Also, it ranks among the top 10 most beautiful airports in the world. You mustn’t miss the opportunity to see it’s bird’s eye view where you will see the airport nestled amidst mountains under the blue sky. The viewpoint also offers a beautiful takeoff and landing as you can see the runway from the viewpoint. Overnight in Paro.

Day 8
Final Departure from Paro

On this day you will be leaving Paro. One of our representatives from Third Rock Adventures will drop you to the international airport at Paro. Fly back to your home with beautiful memories to cherish. Flights to Kathmandu, New Delhi, Bagdogra, Singapore, Dhaka and others are available from Paro. If you want, your tour extension in Bhutan or other countries as well; Nepal, Tibet and India.



Best Time to Travel

You can do the Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour throughout the year. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best time to do Nepal and Bhutan's tour. During these months you can enjoy the uninterrupted view of snowcapped mountains. The daytime temperature is pleasant neither too hot nor too cold. However, it may get chilly in early mornings and late evening in autumn.

Are you thinking to do Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour in the winter months from December to February? Well, you can do but need to be prepared for the cold. There might be snowfall in some places of Bhutan. Summer (June to August) in Bhutan and Nepal are accompanied by monsoon so you need to be prepared for rainfall.

Important Note on This Trip

  • You cannot apply for a visa for Bhutan personally. It would help if you got a visa for Bhutan via an authorized travel agent. Visa isn’t granted unless you book a tour package with a licensed tour company.
  • To apply for the visa, you need to send a digital copy of your passport to your tour operator. After making a payment of USD 40 fee along with the price of the tour package to the tour operator, the Tourism Council of Bhutan processes your visa. The ministry sends a notification to the Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines after which you can get your tickets.
  • You need a passport with a validity of 6 months or more at the arrival time in Bhutan.
  • You need to pay the daily tariff to travel in Bhutan but the daily tariff is waived if you are a citizen of India, Maldives and Bangladesh. 
  • A hike to the Taktsang Monastery is the most physically demanding part of your Nepal and Bhutan Classic Tour. It will take around 5 to 6 hours to complete the hike. There is an option to hire ponies halfway of the hiking trail at an additional cost.

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Latest Trip Reviews

Travel experiences of our clients who recently returned from their trips.

Thimo Koning
flagsNetherlands
Nov 06, 2019

Awesome Nepal and Bhutan trip Experience

I had an amazing time in Nepal and Bhutan through Third Rock Adventures. From the very first day in Nepal i was feeling very much comfortable. Beautiful natural and cultural sites in Nepal and Bhutan made my trip memorable. Perfect car and a driver who is ready to help you with anything and everything in both the country. I was literally experiencing each and every essence of Nepal and Bhutan in such a short time.The food places...everything was mind blowing. Pokhara in Nepal was real natural paradise where as the monasteries of Bhutan and temples of Bhaktapur in Nepal was the traditional paradise. I will visit these countries again in near future. Thank you Third Rock Adventures and the guides for your outstanding services.
WeiDa Tang
flagsSingapore
Oct 24, 2019

Nepal and Bhutan tour

I went to Nepal and Bhutan with my dad and friends, and I must say, the trip was extremely memorable. Peaceful and tranquil, and happiness can really be felt within. Both the country were peaceful and naturally beautiful. Equally the cultural vibrations were also huge among these countries. Both of our guide in Nepal and Bhutan, were also extremely attentive and knowledgeable. Accommodating to all our last min request and making it very customised. Third Rock Adventures organized the trip in both the country without any glitches, everything was flawless. Thank you everyone involved in this tour.
Yusuke Hirata
flagsJapan
Oct 16, 2019

Explored beautiful country Nepal and Bhutan together

These 2 Himalayan countries Nepal and Bhutan are one of the most beautiful country to be explored. Bhutan is a land of happy civilians it is reflected from the ambience and behavior of bhutanese people. They are very humble and friendly towards tourist. In Nepal I saw people are very friendly and co-operative. Culturally I could see Bhutan is pure Buddhist country whereas Nepal is Hindu dominated country. Both the places were culturally beautiful. In Nepal I got to see beautiful city of Pokhara and historical sites of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. In Bhutan I visited Thimpu, Punakha and Paro. Third Rock Adventures organized this trip very professionally. I recommend their service for the tour in Nepal and Bhutan.
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