Nepal and Bhutan Cultural Tour - 4 days

Nepal and Bhutan Cultural Tour - 4 days


Two South Asian countries, Nepal and Bhutan fall among the best tourist destinations because of their cultural diversity and richness in ancient possessions. 4 Days of Nepal and Bhutan Cultural offers a historical excursion for the culture lovers and also provides an insight into the Nepalese and Bhutanese lifestyle. Apart from cultural learning, the tour to these Himalayan lands is also a grand opportunity to discover the similarities between these neighboring nations. This short itinerary includes a visit to the ancient heritages of Kathmandu in Nepal and Paro and Thimphu in Bhutan.

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.

Get A Trip Quote

Trip Highlights

  • 4 days Nepal and Bhutan Cultural tour start from Kathmandu and end from Paro, Bhutan
  • Visit two different Asian countries in a short span and explore a few significant architectural treasures
  • Stroll around some UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu valley; Pashupatinath Temple- the holiest shrine for Hindus, Boudhanath Stupa- a famous worship place for Buddhist and Patan Durbar Square- a medieval palace square full of temples and ancient architectures 
  • A look at splendid Himalayan vistas of Nepal and Bhutan during the flight from Kathmandu to Paro and back, including Mount Everest
  • Sightseeing around the cultural assets of Bhutan in two cities, Paro and Thimphu, the capital city
  • Savor the beauty of heritage sites in Thimphu; namely Memorial Chorten Stupa, Changangkha Lhakhang, and the huge Buddha statue
  • Hike to a famous cultural spot of Bhutan; Taktsang Monastery (also called Tiger's Nest)

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights
Day 1 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,592ft) - Transfer to Hotel and Sightseeing
Day 2 Fly to Paro, drive to Thimphu and Sightseeing - 1:30 hours (55km) drive
Day 3 Drive to Paro, Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) and Paro Tour
Day 4 Final Departure / Tour end

Trip Overview

4 days Nepal Bhutan tour introduces you to the environment and cultural beauty preserved by its inhabitants. Nepal and Bhutan have been the most desired locations for spending vacations among many history enthusiasts. Besides, the visitors have always admired the friendly nature of Nepalese and Bhutanese.

Nepal Bhutan Trip is a visit to some famous heritages of three locations, Paro and Thimphu in Bhutan, and Kathmandu in Nepal. In other words, this short trip, as a whole, in a way is a beautiful heritage outing. In a less span, you have the chance to connect with the vibrancy of Nepal and Bhutan. However, within this short itinerary, it is possible to visit only limited cultural riches in these beautiful cities.

Two neighboring kingdoms, Nepal and Bhutan hosting many Himalayan mountains within their territory, also share similar features. Tibetan culture influences the lifestyle of Buddhists in both places. Additionally, some Bhutanese who emigrated from Nepal in the 19th century still use Nepali as their primary spoken language. 

Kathmandu valley encloses three towns inside its boundary which are Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan (Lalitpur). Historical architectures, arts, crafts, temples and monuments decorate these towns. Among ten UNESCO world heritage sites in Nepal, Kathmandu valley alone possesses 7 world heritages. These heritages include three Durbar Squares; in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan (Lalitpur), two Hindu temples; Changunarayan and Pashupatinath, and two Buddhist stupas; Swyambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa. 

Paro and Thimphu in Bhutan are two beautiful cities included within this 4 days itinerary. Paro is a quiet city with beautiful architectural temples, monasteries and museums. Whereas, Thimphu being the capital of Bhutan is a little busier city, yet equally appealing with sights of many cultural icons and some scopes for a short hike. A trip to Bhutan would not feel complete without visiting these remarkable cultural heritages.

Bhutanese people have always been praised worldwide about their enthusiasm for safeguarding their heritages. Bhutanese have preserved their environment, cultural monuments, temples and architecture quite carefully. Buddhism is dominant in Bhutan which is why Bhutanese are also known for their harmonious nature.

Your Nepal Bhutan tour starts with a sightseeing of three UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. Visit the most sacred place for Hindus, Pashupatinath temple and be mesmerized at the sight of Lord Shiva devotees' dedication. Soothe yourself with the aura of incenses floating around Boudhanath Stupa- a religious monument for Buddhists. Be startled by the creative monuments in Patan Durbar Square while you stroll around there. 

You witness the charming mountains in both Nepal and Bhutan as you fly to Paro from Kathmandu on a scenic flight. Your tour then continues for the next two days in towns of Bhutan; Paro and Thimphu. In Paro and Thimphu you visit some famous Lhakhangs, Stupas and Fortress with historical importance that dates back to many centuries.

You will also hike to the Tiger's Nest monastery that carries a mystical tale from the ancient times. An ancient history records say that in the 7th century, Buddhist Guru Rinpoche flew to Paro on a tigress and meditated there. It is a good idea to spend the evening wandering around the Town and do some shopping. You might also get a chance to see the traditional Archery game in those towns.

Get ready to be surprised when our guide narrates you the stories about those heritages. Besides, if you happen to be in Thimphu during weekend days, you will also have the chance to explore the weekend market held Friday to Sunday. Additionally, you will also be amazed to experience the cultural awareness of humble Bhutanese.

After spending two days in Bhutan, you return to Kathmandu with the trip memories cherished in your heart forever. Finally, your trip wraps when you are driven to Paro airport for your departure.

Detailed Itinerary

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

pashupathnath temple kathmandu Pashupatinath Temple- The Biggest holy place for Hindu people and one of the four most important religious sites in Asia

You arrive at Kathmandu airport and one of our representatives will welcome you there. Then, the representative will take you to the hotel, assist you for hotel check-in and explain to you briefly about the tour.

You may take some time to freshen up, relax and order something to eat. After rest, your sightseeing in UNESCO world heritage sites of Kathmandu valley will now begin with the tour guide. At first, you will go to Pashupatinath temple- the biggest holy place for Hindu people which lies by the bank of Bagmati River.

Your guided tour heads to a famous Buddhist monument, Boudhanath that lies 2 km far toward the northeast of Pashupatinath. At last, you visit Patan Durbar Square that presents you with architectural masterpieces and historical-artistic monuments. However, the order of the estimated locations for sightseeing may vary as per your schedule of arrival in Nepal. Overnight in the hotel at Kathmandu.

In case you arrive late we can compensate it the next day before flying to Bhutan or on the last day after you are back in Kathmandu.  

Day 2
Fly to Paro, drive to Thimphu and Sightseeing - 1:30 hours (55km) drive

thimphu bhutan Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of the city of Thimphu in Bhutan

After breakfast, you fly to Paro via an hour scenic flight above the hills and mountains. Our Bhutanese guide with our placard will receive you there. After lunch, he will then drive you to Thimphu, 55 km away from Paro via an hour road ride. Your major sites in Thimphu visit for the day are Memorial Chorten Stupa, Changangkha Lhakhang, Tashichho Dzong, and Buddha's statue.

Chorten is a Memorial Stupa of the third King of Bhutan; His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck built-in 1974. Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the historic temples built in the 12th century. Tashichho Dzong, also known as "the fortress of the glorious religion," is situated along the Thimphu River's right edge. In Tashichho Dzong fortress, Bhutanese people celebrate Thimphu Festival during the fall season. 

At Buddha point stands one 51 meters (169 ft) tall gold-covered bronze statue of Buddha. From the base of the giant Buddha, a 360-degree view of Thimphu valley is visible. Overnight in the hotel at Thimphu.

Day 3
Drive to Paro, Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) and Paro Tour

taksang monastery bhutan Taksang Monastery Bhutan - A temple complex was first built in 1692

After breakfast in Thimpu, our Bhutanese guide will take you to Paro via one hour drive. Paro's major visit sites for this day are Taktsang Monastery (also called Tiger's Nest or Paro Taktsang), Paro Dzong (fortress) and Paro Airport Bird's Eye View Point.

Taktsang monastery lies under the top 20 places to visit in the world. Taktsang stands at an altitude of 3180 meters (10433 ft), approximately 12 km north of Paro town. A granite cliff shelters the monastery at an altitude of about 900 meters (2953 ft) above the Paro. The monastery is approximately 6 km uphill from the base. And the hike to the top and back needs about 6 hours maximum.

After descending from Taktsang, you visit the historical Paro Dzong fortress. Paro Dzong also formally named, RinchenPung Dzong is a fort built in the 16th century. The Bhutanese used the fort to protect the Paro valley against invasions of Tibet. Overnight in the hotel at Paro.

Day 4
Final Departure / Tour end

The departure day has finally arrived. Our Bhutanese guide will drop you at the Paro airport as per your flight schedule to Kathmandu or other destinations.

If you want to extend your vacation, you need not worry at all. Third Rock Adventures offers a lot of other exciting trips. So, we can further extend your tour either in Bhutan or in Nepal, India and Tibet.



Route Map

routemap

How will you be traveling?

solo
couple
family
group







Latest Trip Reviews

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

George Burton
flagsUnited Kingdom
Mar 19, 2020

Beautiful experience in short time

I was lucky enough to spend 4 days of my life in such a beautiful country of Nepal and Bhutan. I’ve had an amazing experience in Nepal and Bhutan. I’ve seen and done so much in a small space of time. From day tours to cultural attraction in Kathmandu to Tigers Nest in Bhutan. All this was an amazing experience because of the excellent organization made by Third Rock Adventures and the team. I appreciate their hard work to keep us satisfied throughout the trip. Highly recommended. I can’t wait to go back! I am already planning a Tibet tour with some friends and I know I will be in safe hands and well looked after by my ‘Nepali family’ of Third Rock Adventures.
Edward Lopez
flagsUnited States of America
Feb 06, 2020

Real cultural beauty and natural ambience

Our huge appreciation to Third Rock Adventures for the best experience !!! The tours in Kathmandu were so insightful and I experienced a new culture and people. I learned so much along the journey, but the best is always getting to know our faraway neighbors !! The food was great, all the hotels were very nice. As a shopper who loves collecting regional crafts, Kathmandu was simply an amazing place to gather things to bring home and enjoy. Arriving in Bhutan we were warmly greeted and gave us an amazing tour of Bhutan! Before our journey began we got to have dinner with departing guests and we all laughed, ate, and enjoyed great conversation. Really enchanting time we spend ever on holidays.
Charlie Carter
flagsUnited Kingdom
Nov 09, 2019

Excellent tour to Bhutan and Nepal

We planned to go for a holiday and it was a short trip to Kathmandu and Bhutan which was superb. Dipesh and Third Rock Adventures organised the perfect trip for a family of 3. We didn't want to do anything too strenuous but wanted to enjoy the cultural side of Bhutan, visiting the main temples, the Dzongs and of course, The Tiger's Nest Monastery. In Bhutan, we were transported into another World and the hotels, transport, food, guide and flights were all a positive experience and the trip created memories that we will have forever.
Elsie Mills
flagsUnited States of America
Nov 07, 2019

Great Experience

The entire Third Rock staff was friendly and helpful. Just before the trek, Mr. Naba answered all my questions and ensured that I will enjoy myself to the fullest. He cleared me everything about the trip, the operation, the guide, the driver and my porters. I was provided the best tour guide. He made my day with his smile and cool nature. He was really knowledgeable and attentive. He provided me all the information about the trip to Bhutan and Nepal. Thanks, Third Rock Adventures.
Janice Leonard
flagsUnited States of America
Oct 28, 2019

Wonderful tour.

If I have to say the best part of this trip- it would be Bhutan's culture. I was awed by the beauty of Bhutan, and admittedly Nepal is no less. When I was in Kathmandu, I was welcomed by everyone. Everyone I meet was so good. We greeted Namaste and smiled. In short, best tour of my life. One thing I realized- Once is not enough. So I guess I will visit Nepal and Bhutan again.
100%

Based on 5 reviews
Excellent
5
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0


Explore Trip By Duration : 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 8 days, 9 days, 10 days, 11 days, 12 days, 13 days, 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days, 20 days, 21-days and above, View All Trips

Trending Trips for 2023 and 2024

See All Trending Trips
Recommendation

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Sign up for our newsletter and get alerts on amazing travel deals and latest news.

Contact Us

USA & Canada
Australia
51 Spring Street, Thomastown Vic 3074
Europe
864 route de la Marqueze, 40230 Josse
Nepal
Keshar Mahal Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tibet
Sera Road/ Tashi Xintsun, Lhasa, Tibet
Bhutan
Changlam, Thimphu 11001, Bhutan