Nepal & Bhutan Tour: Himalayan Highlights
15 days from £3,889 pp
Experience the best of Nepal and Bhutan on this 15-day Himalayan highlights itinerary. From the vibrant streets and temples of Kathmandu to the lake views of Pokhara, and from the cultural riches of Bhutan’s valleys to the dramatic finale at Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. This tailor-made tour blends scenery, spirituality and gentle adventure across two extraordinary Himalayan kingdoms.
Trip Highlights
- Kathmandu’s temples, markets and sacred sites
- Pokhara’s lake views and optional Himalayan hikes
- Journey through pristine valleys in the spiritual Kingdom of Bhutan
- The iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro
Our Expert Tip
”If you are lucky with clear skies, look out for views of mighty Mount Everest from the windows of your Kathmandu-Paro flights!”
Holly, Bhutan Expert
Detailed Nepal & Bhutan Tour: Himalayan Highlights Itinerary
Day 1-2: Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu and settle into a comfortable, centrally located hotel for two nights. With your private guide, explore Durbar Square, Indra Chowk and Ason Tole, soaking up the energy of Nepal’s vibrant capital.
Enjoy Nepalese cuisine in a recommended local restaurant, then spend the next day visiting Pashupatinath and Boudhanath. If you wish, your guide can also help you browse the city’s best markets for souvenirs.
Day 3-5: Pokhara
Travel to Pokhara by private road transfer or short domestic flight. This laid-back lakeside city offers a complete contrast to Kathmandu, with lovely views over Phewa Lake and the surrounding hills.
Stay for three nights in a hilltop lodge and spend your time as actively or as leisurely as you like, with hikes, boat trips, markets, museums and excellent restaurants. If you want a deeper mountain experience, ask about adding a private four- to six-night trek from Pokhara.
Day 6: Kathmandu
Return to Kathmandu by road or short domestic flight and stay one final night before flying to Bhutan the next morning.
Day 7-8: Thimphu
Fly to Paro, meet your private guide and driver, and continue to Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma, then enjoy an easy hike to Changangkha Lhakhang. Later, sample local cuisine, browse the farmers’ market and begin to soak up Bhutan’s culture.
The next day, explore the Royal Textile Academy and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, with the option to visit the Takin Preserve and create your own personalised Bhutanese stamp at the post office.
Day 9-10: Punakha
Drive to the Punakha Valley, stopping at the spectacular Dochu La Pass for sweeping Himalayan views. Spend two nights in a peaceful hotel in the heart of the valley.
Visit Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong, cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge and, if conditions allow, go rafting with an expert team. For a rewarding walk, hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for beautiful valley views.
You may also visit a local nunnery for a blessing ceremony and a glimpse of Punakha’s living traditions.
Day 11-12: Gangtey
Drive from Punakha to Phobjikha (Gangtey) through beautiful Himalayan scenery. Spend your first afternoon at leisure in the peaceful Gangtey Valley, perhaps with a gentle walk to a nearby viewpoint, before joining evening prayers at Shedra.
Visit Gangtey Goemba, walk part of the Gangtey Nature Trail and enjoy superb Himalayan views. You can also stop at the Black-Necked Crane Centre to learn about these remarkable birds and local conservation efforts.Considering upgrading to the famous Gangte Lodge? Take a look at our Luxury Bhutan Holiday to find out more.
Day 13-14: Paro
Return to Paro for the final two nights of your journey through Bhutan.
Stay in a comfortable hotel with time to explore on foot. Visit Ta Dzong and stop at a local farmhouse for a glimpse into Bhutanese daily life.
Your final full day is devoted to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Hike the famous trail with your guide and take in one of the Himalayas’ most extraordinary settings.
Day 15: Depart
Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Everest from the plane. Depending on your onward international flight, an extra night in Kathmandu may be needed, which we can arrange.
When to Go
Includes
- All accommodation
- Excursions
- Transport
- Private guides
Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa cost
- Tips
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don’t have to
Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
