Nepal & Bhutan Journey

Intrepid Travel Preferred
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
4.6 . Excellent
94%
Travel Style: Array Mixed
Physical Level: Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment. Easy
Lodging Level: 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards. Comfort (4*)
18 days
From: $ 6,584 $ 366 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Witness the world-class mountain scenery of Everest from a heavenly viewpoint, with a breathtaking scenic flight.
  • Take a jeep safari with a local guide in Chitwan National Park, a place brimming with exotic birdlife and game - you may be lucky enough to spot rhinos or elusive leopards and tigers.
  • Explore Nepal's diverse architecture, from the stately Newari dwellings in Bandipur to the hill-perched Buddhist Peace Pagoda in laid back Pokhara.
  • Journey to Taktsang, commonly known as the Tiger's Nest, the small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor, and soak in its magnificence.
  • Hike to the top of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a monastery built to bring peace to the world, and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding rice terraces.

Short Description

Journey into the heart of Nepal and experience the colourful sights and culture of this enchanting region. Mingle with local villagers and craftspeople, visit tranquil temples and sacred Buddhist sites, travel the cobbled streets of tiny mountain towns, and search for unique wildlife. From the whirlwind of Kathmandu to the lush jungle of Chitwan National Park - with plenty of delightful hidden gems in between - take an unforgettable tour of Nepal, brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty. Then turn your sights on Bhutan, nestled between China and India, this place is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, quiet townships and fewer tourist numbers. The land is dotted with red-clothed monks, ancient Buddhist temples, and friendly smiles. It is one calm country, where gross national happiness is more important than money and where chillies are used as a vegetable rather than for spice. From Nepal to Bhutan, this trip offers scenic delights, an insight into the local culture and plenty of adventure in between.

Style Small group tour
See all the highlights and popular spots on a classic tour.
Itinerary Focus Classic Highlights
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Lodging Level Comfort (4*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions All internal ground transport
Start City Kathmandu
End City Paro

Destinations

Nepal Bhutan

Activities & Interests

Culture Historic sightseeing

Age Requirement

15-99

No Single Supplement
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Itinerary

Day 1 Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal. Arrive in Kathmandu and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your tour leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu’s fine Nepali restaurants.

Day 2 Kathmandu

Weather permitting, take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This amazing experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park, through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. Later in the morning, you will explore Kathmandu, visiting Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. You will also visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you will see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon in Kathmandu is free for further sightseeing and exploration. Perhaps head to Durbar Square, in front of the old royal palace and home to numerous beautiful temples, and browse the stalls of merchant's wares.

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. There are often spectacular views of the main Himalayan chain to the north on this flight. On arrival, you will take a boat ride across the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal. Visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. You can see the Annapurnas from here, and the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back across to Pokhara. You will also visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn some amazing tales of past climbing expeditions – some ending in triumph, some ending in tragedy.

Day 4 Pokhara

Enjoy a free day for further exploration in the peaceful surroundings of Pokhara. With an elaborate Hindu temple, Buddhist monastery and bazaar to visit, you'll find plenty to keep you occupied. Or you may like to relax at a restaurant by the lake - in clear weather the views at sunrise and sunset are fantastic.

Day 5 Bandipur

Today you'll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the country's true hidden gems. Bandipur was once an important stop for traders travelling to Tibet and the single main street of the town is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. The town is quieter than during its trading days and certainly quieter than current day Kathmandu, so enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.

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. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the town’s temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.

Day 7 Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you will be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists who will discuss the activities program. There is some flexibility, and activities may vary depending on the time of year and on wildlife movements. A late-afternoon safari will take you through forests and across grasslands to observe the varied and exciting wildlife in the park. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You will then enjoy dinner and afterward, you will be free to relax in the bar and discuss the day’s sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.

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 birdlife) or joining one of the other activities available in the park. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but these magnificent animals do inhabit the park. After breakfast, you will leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to view marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.

Day 9 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 fly to Kathmandu and drive to Bhaktapur - once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples, and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.

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 Bagmati River in Kathmandu. This will be an enlightening morning of discovery and enrichment, as you delve into all Bhaktapur has to offer. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu (approximately 2 hours). The evening is yours to spend as you wish - your group may like to head out for an optional dinner to celebrate the wonderful time you've spent together in Nepal.

Day 11 Kathmandu

Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. You may like to explore the Thamel Market, perusing the eclectic shops and stopping for tea and people-watching. A language, craft or cooking class at Seven Women, a local social enterprise, is also a wonderful way to understand more about Nepal and its people. Your leader can make recommendations to suit your interests or assist you in arranging any sightseeing you might wish to do today.

Day 12 Paro - Thimphu

This morning board a short flight to Bhutan, you will be unescorted on this flight. Ask to sit on the left-hand side of the plane for the best views of the Himalayas. After arriving at Paro Airport and making your way through immigration and customs formalities, you will be greeted by your guide and driver and warmly welcomed to the enchanting Land of the Thunder Dragon. Drive alongside mountains, rivers, and fields of red rice to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have lunch and then head out for some sightseeing. Stop in at the Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory, Bhutan’s most famous traditional incense maker, as well as the colourful Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre. If you arrive in the afternoon, you'll meet the rest of your group in the evening for a welcome meeting before heading out together for dinner. Take an evening wander through the fascinating streets of Thimphu, the world’s only capital city without a traffic light!

Day 13 Thimphu

Today begins with a pleasant walk that meanders gently up the valley through paddy fields, pristine woodlands, and a Tibetan village, a trail that continues uphill (1 hour) to the Cheri Dorji Dhen monastery – built in 1620 by Shabdrung, the first ruler of Bhutan. Back in Thimphu, stop to enjoy the incredible views from the Buddha Dordenma before visiting Simply Bhutan, a living museum where you can explore the traditional homes and lifestyles of the Bhutanese. You may like to try your hand at archery, Bhutan's national sport. Stop by the National Memorial Chorten – many Thimphu residents consider this to be the heart and soul of the city and gather here every day to pray and walk clockwise around the chorten. Afterward, visit a local institute where students become masters of Bhutan's 13 national arts and crafts - from carpentry and masonry to paper making and embroidery. The incredible National Textile Museum is a great way to learn more about the history of craft in Bhutan and if you’re in the mood for a spot of shopping, the National Handicrafts Emporium offers high-quality traditional goods and a small family-run enterprise that manufactures paper and paper products using traditional methods.

Day 14 Punakha

This morning, drive to Punakha – the ancient winter capital of Bhutan. Stop at Dochula Pass for a breathtaking view of the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan's highest mountain, the majestic Gangkhar Puensum. Continue the journey before taking another break. Enjoy a short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple built in 1499 by lama Ngawang Chogyel. Arrive in Punakha for a good night’s rest before another day of exploration tomorrow.

Day 15 Punakha

After breakfast we head out on a short hike (1.5 hours) to Khamsum Yulley Monastery – an elaborately decorated chorten, built to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and harmony to all living things. As with many monasteries in Bhutan, your leader may need to hunt around for the caretaker with the keys to have a look inside! Afterwards, head down to the convergence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers, two of the main rivers of Bhutan, and admire breathtaking views of the majestic Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in the country, as well as the cantilever bridge that spans across the river.

Day 16 Paro

This morning head back over the Dochula Pass and continue to Thimphu. The roads in Bhutan are narrow, and while the distances don’t appear to be very far, due to the nature of the roads and the many valleys they pass through, travelling can take some time – so this is a good chance to relax and enjoy the passing scenery. After lunch continue into the Paro Valley, stretching your legs with an optional wander around town on arrival. Get a good night's sleep tonight as tomorrow will be an active and exciting day!

Day 17 Paro / Tiger's Nest Monastery

After an early breakfast followed by a short drive, prepare for your hike to see the legendary Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) – a magnificent monastery, clinging on a rock cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. After approximately 1 hour ascending the mountainside, reach a small teahouse that has a wonderful panoramic view of the temple and the ideal place to enjoy lunch. For those interested, it’s possible to get a closer view by hiking another 45 minutes to 1 hour (each direction) to reach the small chorten directly across from the temple. Anyone not interested in hiking any further can relax at the teahouse and enjoy the view. In the evening, after returning to Paro, experience Bhutanese hospitality and a taste of tradition with a home-cooked meal at a local farmhouse. Soak up the friendly atmosphere and consider taking an optional hot stone bath. A great way to relax after your hiking, this bath is a form of traditional Bhutanese medicine where fresh river water is mixed with local herbs and heated with fire-roasted river stones. A soak in these soothing waters is bound to revive and relax you.

Day 18 Paro

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a departure transfer to Paro airport for your flight out of Bhutan.

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 6,584
Price Per Day: $ 366 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceAvailability 
Apr-07-2023Apr-24-2023$ 6,584Sold Out Reserve
Sep-04-2023Sep-21-2023$ 8,2308 spots left Reserve
Sep-08-2023Sep-25-2023$ 8,23010 spots left Reserve
Sep-18-2023Oct-05-2023$ 8,7256 spots left Reserve
Oct-02-2023Oct-19-2023$ 8,5608 spots left Reserve
Oct-16-2023Nov-02-2023$ 8,6404 spots left Reserve
Oct-23-2023Nov-09-2023$ 8,56010 spots left Reserve
Oct-30-2023Nov-16-2023$ 8,5606 spots left Reserve
Nov-06-2023Nov-23-2023$ 8,5502 spots left Reserve
Mar-04-2024Mar-21-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Apr-05-2024Apr-22-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Apr-08-2024Apr-25-2024$ 8,39011 spots left Reserve
Sep-02-2024Sep-19-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Sep-06-2024Sep-23-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Sep-16-2024Oct-03-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Sep-30-2024Oct-17-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Oct-14-2024Oct-31-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
Oct-28-2024Nov-14-2024$ 8,39012 spots left Reserve
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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.

4,235 Intrepid Travel Travel Reviews & Ratings

94%
4.6 out of 5 (100+ reviews)
Excellent 3,193
Great 675
Average 134
Disappointing 68
Terrible 165
Value
4.6
Guide
4.6
Activities
4.6
Lodging
4.6
Transportation
4.6
Meals
4.6

Nepal & Bhutan Journey

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Company Reviews

intrepid charges more than 50% than the local companies for extras

1.0
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
This review is for the company Intrepid. first, don't pay for extra on your trip, they charge more than double of what the local cost, example, we paid 85 USdollars each for a hotel room, when we arrived the hotel was a 2 star hotel,with the cost for 40 USD, for more than 50% higher, no chance of getting that cost down. we paid for airport pickup, they forgot us, we called the contact and were hung up on. we were charged 250 usd more then if we had paid the actual company for a balloon ride, all in all we paid almost 600 usd more because we booked through intrepid travel. All hotel/camping grounds are subpar. Suggest that you not choose Intripid/ I'll not do this company in the future.
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Premium Vietnam

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
Fantastic! Would have been 5 star, but last hotel was mediocre (Ramada encore). All other hotels were great, everything well organised. Without doubt our guide Binh was the best thing of all. He never stopped working and nothing was too much trouble. He had a great knowledge and a good sense of humour.
Will definitely be booking with intrepid again.
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Cancelled tour, deception and poor customer service

1.0
Details
Value1.0
Guide1.0
Activities1.0
Lodging1.0
Transportation1.0
Meals1.0
Booked a 'trip of a lifetime' with Intrepid to NZ, having worked throughout Covid in a public facing role.
The booking was made a year in advance - during which we received information about the trip and Intrepid took our money.
Three weeks before the trip we were informed our trip had been cancelled. The explanation given by Intrepid was the NZ local operator (Haka tours) had failed to include us on their attendance list and the tour was now full. The blame was squarely placed with Haka tours.

We managed, with the assistance of our excellent travel agent, to book a self drive holiday. However the whole experience was extremely stressful.

When we arrived in NZ it soon became known to us that Intrepid actually own Haka tours - so the reason given for cancellation was a deliberate attempt to deceive us. Intrepid have done nothing of any use to assist us and I would strongly advise that you do NOT book with them. They are not to be trusted and clearly do not value their customers.
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total confidence

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
PREMIUM INDIA

great tour leader, excellent hotels and a varied itinerary. This all adds up to a wonderful experience where all we had to doing was sit back and enjoy the trip. Very confident in the planning and organisation...well done again intrepid
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Although Intrepid did not rectify the…

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
Although Intrepid did not rectify the problem during the trip, customer service was proactive and continued to communicate until the matter was resolved. I appreciated that.
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Intrepid just gets it right every time!

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Brilliant local tour leader with lots of knowledge and recommendations, local guides who share their great knowledge and insights when visiting a village/palace/temple/fort/etc, small group tours of often like-minded people so you connect very easily with your fellow travellers, authentic and fun experiences (for example street foodie tour by auto rickshaws or tuk-tuks), all the logistics of travelling is taking care of making it so much easier and efficient compared to when you would had to arrange it yourself.
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Details

Flight & Transport Inclusions

All internal ground transport Private vehicle,Plane

Group Size

Small Group - 24 max

Maximum Number of People in Group: 12

Accommodations

Hotel (12 nights),Guesthouse (3 nights),Lodge (2 nights)

Guides

All 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. Intrepid 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 Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are 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.

Age Notes :

Min. Age: 15

Max Age: 99

Additional Information

Finish point

  • Tenzinling Resort
  • Lango
  • Paro
  • BHUTAN
  • Phone: +975 8272773
  • Fax: +975 8272503

Trip ID#:

intrepid-HNKBC

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