Nepal and Bhutan
19 days
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Small Group Tour
This adventure encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by travellers. Whether you’re exploring the exotic capital of Kathmandu, discovering Pokhara, beneath awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, or exploring the rural beauty around the hilltop village of Bandipur, exploring Chitwan National Park in search of big game or wandering around the ancient Newari ...
Overview
Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Highlights
- Beginning in kathmandu, there's ample time to discover the capital's staggeringly rich cultural and artistic heritage
- Whether it's flying, hiking, driving or canoeing, you'll experience nepal's stunning natural beauty from all angles
- A breathtaking everest flight gives you the chance to witness some truly world-class mountain scenery
- The beautiful chitwan national park, brimming with exotic bird life and game, offers a vast array of activities. enjoy a jeep safari and a jungle walk with an expert resident naturalist
- Get a great overview of nepal's diverse architecture, from the stately newari dwellings in bandipur to the hill-perched buddhist peace pagoda in pokhara
- Bhutan is perhaps the most mysterious and diverse of all the himalayan kingdoms, where for centuries a traditional buddhist culture has thrived in isolation from the rest of the world.
- It is a land of contrast - with lush forested valleys, fortified monasteries, sacred mountains, art and architecture unique to the region.
- The capital thimphu is charming and serene, a delight to explore.
- The opportunity to explore the rural lifestyle and architecture of bhutan via the beautiful punakha and haa valleys
- Visiting taktsang (the tiger's nest) - a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor in paro is truly a highlight.
What's this trip about?
This adventure encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by travellers. Whether you’re exploring the exotic capital of Kathmandu, discovering Pokhara, beneath awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, or exploring the rural beauty around the hilltop village of Bandipur, exploring Chitwan National Park in search of big game or wandering around the ancient Newari capital, Bhaktapur. Undoubtedly the amazing flight to view Sagarmatha (Mount Everest) up-close will take your breath away. Nepal is incredible. You’ll be left with no doubt why so many return to the country time and time again.
Bhutan is perhaps the most mysterious and diverse of all the Himalayan kingdoms, where for centuries a traditional Buddhist culture has thrived in isolation from the rest of the world. It is a land of contrast – with lush forested valleys, fortified monasteries, sacred mountains, art and architecture unique to the region. Our journey begins in Paro and we head straight to Thimphu, where we have two days to explore this charming and serene capital. We then venture out into the countryside to visit the beautiful Punakha, Bumthang and Gangtey Valleys. Here we explore the rural lifestyle and architecture of Bhutan before returning to Paro where, on one of the highlights of our tour, we visit Taktsang (the Tiger’s Nest) - a small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor.
TRIP CHANGES FOR 2018:
This trip is discontinued for 2018. For another great itinerary that includes the best of Nepal and Bhutan, see our new Essence of Nepal & Bhutan (PHNJC) trip.
Details
Itinerary focusOperator does not provide
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 16 people
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityOperator does not provide
End CityOperator does not provide
Travel Themes
Destinations
Attractions
Activities
Popular Trips
Itinerary
Day 1 Kathmandu
On arrival in Kathmandu you will be met at the airport by a Peregrine representative who will transfer you to your hotel. There will be a group briefing with your trip leader in the late afternoon. Usually the meeting is followed by an optional group dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.
Day 2 Kathmandu
In the early morning you will make an attempt at the Mount Everest scenic flight. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, climaxing by getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morn...
Day 3 Pokhara
Today you will have an early departure from the hotel for your transfer to the domestic terminal at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan Airport. From here you will fly to Pokhara, with a flight time of about 30 minutes. There are often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to ...
Day 4 Pokhara
Enjoy a free day for further exploration in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. Your leader can advise you of sightseeing opportunities. It is worth taking a boat for a row out on the lake, especially if the weather's fine. The lakeside area has great shopping opportunities and internet cafes. Pokhara has an interesting old area as well as an elaborate Hindu temple and a Buddhist monastery.
Day 5 Bandipur
In the morning you will drive to beautiful Bandipur. You will fully explore this incredible settlement and take the many opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture of Nepal as it once was. Enjoy the spectacular views, the incredibly maintained architecture and nice walking trails. This traditional Nepalese settlement is a natural treasure and one of the country's true hidden gems.
Day 6 Bandipur
Enjoy a day of free time to further explore Bandipur. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages, verdant forests, 'power places', and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. As you explore the area you may...
Day 7 Chitwan National Park
After breakfast you will be picked up and driven to Chitwan National Park (approximately 4 hours). After arriving and settling in, you will be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the program. There is some flexibility, and activities ma...
Day 8 Chitwan National Park
Embark on an early-morning excursion. This could include either another safari to different parts of the park (in search of the great Indian rhino, deer, and exotic bird life) or joining one of the other activities available in the park. Tiger sightings are rare these da...
Day 9 Chitwan National Park – Bhaktapur
If you are an avid wildlife lover, there is an optional early-morning birdwatching safari available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast you will drive on to Bhaktapur, which was once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th...
Day 10 Bhaktapur – Kathmandu
Spend the day exploring Bhaktapur’s famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is reputed to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. You will also visit the Pashupati Temple, a replica of the Bag...
Day 11 Paro - Thimphu
This morning board the short flight to Bhutan. Ask to sit on the left hand side of the plane for the best views of the Himalaya's.
Welcome to Bhutan, the last Shangri-La. Depending on the clarity of the weather and your flight path into Paro (2,280m), you may be met wit...
Day 12 Thimphu
After breakfast you will venture out to explore Thimphu, first driving to Buddha point (where a 51-metre-high gilded statue watches over the city) to enjoy an excellent panoramic view of the city. On your way back you will take a short hike around the small enclosure in ...
Day 13 Punakha
This morning, travel out the castle-monastery of Simtokha Dzong, the first built by Zhabdrung (in 1629AD) and said to guard against a demon that escaped into the nearby rock. Next, climb the winding Dochula pass (3,100m) through beautiful tropical forest and sparse villa...
Day 14 Punakha
Begin the day with a short 30-minute drive from the Punkha Dzong to the base of a hill where a ridge-top monastery sits. In this almost sub-tropical valley, begin a hike at a suspension bridge that crosses the Mo Chu river and cross through paddy fields before starting t...
Day 15 Haa Valley Valley
Today you will travel to one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan – the Haa Valley. This area only opened to tourism in 2002 and has one of the strongest auras of stepping into the past, in a country that already feels lost in time. The surroundings mountains ...
Day 16 Haa Valley
Enjoy a full day of exploration in this culturally rich valley, which is also known for being the ancestral home of the Royal grandmother. The two most important temples here are the 7th century Lhakhang Karpo (White temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black temple), which sit a...
Day 17 Paro
Retrace the drive up the spectacular Cheli La Pass and return to Paro (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival in Paro, visit the impressive Ta Dzong, a 17th century watchtower above the Paro Dzong that now houses the National Museum. It features an excellent collection of ...
Day 18 Tiger's Nest Monastery - Paro
After an early breakfast, prepare to hike to the legendary Taktsang (Tiger's Nest), a magnificent monastery, clinging on a rock cliff 900 meters above the valley floor. The legend, dating back to 747AD, says that the Great Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhawa) flew here from nor...
Day 19 Paro
After breakfast your driver and tour leader will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight (approximately 1.5 hours). Please note that your departure flight is not included as part of the trip and must be booked separately.
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Dates & Availability
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Last Updated: 2/22/2018
Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Peregrine Adventures.
The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.
Peregrine Adventures Reviews & Ratings
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Tour Operator
It’s been more than 36 years since our first small group set out to discover Nepal. It’s this heritage and our reputation that keeps travellers coming back time and time again.
We appeal to the well-travelled, discerning traveller. The one who chooses value over price, and wants to immerse themselves in a place instead of just ticking landmarks off a bucket list. The type of person who would rather stay in a family run B&B built in a 16th century Venetian convent than a forgettable hotel. We’re for travellers who want inclusions along the way instead of fiddling around for loose change.
Almost 20 years ago, Peregrine led an industry revolution by solely employing locally born leaders. This innovative approach gives our travellers a deeper insight into the countries they visit. Doorways are opened and a true understanding of the place is fostered.
At Peregrine, we travel in intimate groups and take the time to get under the skin of a destination. Of course we all want to see the Taj Mahal in India. But imagine then heading to a remote Rajasthani village and learning about rural life while in the company of locals. Seeing the famous sites is a must, but it’s often the memory of wandering through a small village or sharing dinner with a local family that will leave a lasting impact.
We promise to share our knowledge and expertise with you, and ensure you will come home with stories you will tell for years to come.
Why we love this operator
Since their founding in 1977 by trekkers exploring Nepal, they’ve maintained a strong connection to local culture and the “traveler spirit”.
What they’re known for
Immersive experiences that prioritize value, authenticity and adventure over luxury touches for older travelers.
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Logistics
Accommodation
Hotel (18 nights),
Transportation & Flights
Bus,Minibus,Plane,
Transportation & flights
Bus,Minibus,Plane
Guides
All Peregrine Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Peregrine Adventures endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Peregrine Adventures we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you were interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.
When travelling on a group trip, you won't be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.
If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.
Visa requirements
NEPAL
All foreign nationals (except Indian nationals) require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad, or on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and at some land borders (including borders with India and Tibet).
Getting a visa at the airport can sometimes take time due to long queues. There have been instances when passengers were asked to show return flight tickets. You may also need to provide two passport photos (there is a photo booth in the arrivals hall, but delays are common) and the following fees in US dollars cash. Other currencies are also accepted although rates may differ. The following costs were correct at time of writing:
- Multi entry visa valid for 15 days - US$25
- Multi entry visa valid for 30 days - US$40
- Multi entry visa valid for 90 days - US$100
Please note if you are staying in Nepal for less than 24 hours while in transit a transit visa can be issued on presentation of your international flight ticket, there is a nominal charge of US$5 and one photo is required.
Your visa application form may require you to state the dates on which you enter and exit that country. Please note we suggest you list your date of entry a few days before, and date of exit a few days after, your intended dates in case you encounter any delays or problems en route. To help calculate the exact dates of these crossings we have found the website www.timeanddate.com to be very useful.
All nationalities require a visa for Bhutan. Travellers can only enter Bhutan as part of a group visa. Independent visas are not issued. The cost of the visa is covered in our tour.
At the time of booking, please provide Peregrine the following
- scanned colour copy of the photo page of your passport
- full name
- gender
- date of birth
- nationality
- passport number & date of issue / expiry,
- travelling email address
Peregrine can assist you with your flights into Bhutan. Please speak to your travel agent or reservations advisor. Alternatively both Druk Air and Air Bhutan take bookings directly on their websites. Please ensure that Peregrine has a copy of ALL your international flight details to assist with your booking and for your visa application.
Due to the nature of travel in Bhutan the group visa can only be submited once we have ALL travellers details. Failure to advise any of the information as above can slow the visa issue process and delay the group visa. Generally visas are issued within 5 days of departure and as close as 48 hours prior to travel into the country. If required we can send your group visa to your travelling email address. Please print this visa and carry with you at time of boarding your Bhutan flight.
You must show the copy of your Bhutan Group visa at the check-in for your flight to Bhutan and on arrival at immigration in Bhutan where you will have your Bhutan visa stamped into your passport.
Health & Safety
ALTITUDE:
Altitude sickness is a risk, including on the Annapurna, Langtang and Everest Base Camp treks. Please make sure you familiarise yourself with signs and symptoms before you depart and monitor your own health during your trek.
INSURANCE:
Make sure your insurance covers you for your intended activity, including travel above 3,000m, mountain rescue services and helicopter costs.
PERSONAL SAFETY:
There’s a low rate of serious crime in Nepal. Watch out for pick-pockets and bag-snatching, particularly in airports, on buses and in areas popular with foreign nationals like Thamel in Kathmandu.
FESTIVALS:
Travelling in India and Nepal whilst the Holi festival is on (a lunar festival but generally held in March every year), can at times be dangerous - a lot of locals participate in consumption of intoxicating substances. The day has been associated with physical violence and danger. Your leader will be advising you and your group on what places to avoid on this day and it may even be necessary for us to alter your itinerary for the day to avoid putting you or our group leader in high risk situation.
INTERNAL FLIGHTS:
There have been a number of air accidents in Nepal. We only use airlines that have passed strict safety audits for internal flights on this trip, including Buddha Air, Yeti Air & Tara Air. EU clients please see our safety page for important information regarding internal flights in Nepal.
PERSONAL SAFETY - NEPAL:
Pick-pocketing and bag-snatching are common, particularly in airports and on buses. Take care when walking around at night. Avoid walking on your own and don’t carry large sums of cash. Keep valuables in a hotel safe if possible. Bars and restaurants now close at midnight as part of a government crackdown on illegal activities. Foreigners remaining in bars and clubs after hours have been detained by the police. INTERNAL FLIGHTS:
There have been a number of recent air accidents in Nepal. We only use airlines that have passed strict safety audits for internal flights on this trip, including Buddha Air, Yeti Air & Tara Air.
FESTIVALS
Travelling in India and Nepal during Holi can at times be unsafe - drinking and drug use is more widespread during this holiday. Your leader/guide will advise your group on what places to avoid on the day.
It may be necessary to alter your itinerary for the day.
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Additional Information
Finish point Tenzinling Resort Lango Paro BHUTAN Phone: +975 8272773 Fax: +975 8272503
Trip ID
peregrine-PHNBC
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