Nepal and Bhutanese adventure
10 Days, 9 Nights
Nepal boasts an abundance of culture and heritage. Its snow-capped mountains, Buddhist monasteries and lively population make it an incredible destination to immerse yourself in. Despite the sometimes chilly climes up in the mountains, you will receive a warm welcome from the Nepalese. Nepal may be one of the world’s financially poorest countries, but it is a culturally and spiritually rich and a place where the locals demonstrate contentment.
Bhutan is also home to stunning landscapes and celebrates the preservation of its natural beauty. Unlike any other country on earth, Bhutan focuses on the Gross National Happiness index rather than the economic Gross Domestic Product figures that everyone else is so preoccupied with. The first country in the world to be carbon-positive, time spent with the wonderful people of Bhutan will give you a new eye-opening perspective on life.
Prepare for the journey of a lifetime as you delve into two of the most interesting and dynamic countries you will find anywhere in the world.
Day 1: Arrival
You will be picked up at the airport by your tour manager and taken to your accommodation. Once you have had time to settle in, you have the rest of the day to relax and take in your surroundings.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Day 2: Kathmandu
On your first full day, you will be taken on a guided tour of Kathmandu. The tour includes visiting Swayambhunath, an ancient religious complex in the Kathmandu valley, and Patan Dunbar Square, a world heritage site and one of three royal cities in the valley.
At first, Nepalese food may seem similar to the rest of the Indian sub-continent, but it has its own distinct flavors, ingredients and culinary traditions. This afternoon, you get to extend your culinary repertoire with a cooking lesson so you can show off skills back home.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Day 3: Whitewater rafting
You will head to Charaudi this morning for whitewater rafting on the Trishuli River. An expert guide will take you down the picturesque river surrounded by forests and stunning scenery. After your trip down the river, lunch is served on the sandy banks, and then back to the hotel.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Day 4: Kathmandu
After breakfast, it is time to see more of Kathmandu, beginning with Boudhanath - one of the world’s largest and most iconic stupas. Visiting a local school, you will have time to play some games with the children, who will be eager to hear about where you are from and your life back home.
The day ends with a visit to Pashupatinath, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, next to the sacred Bagmati river.
Overnight: Kathmandu
Day 5: Paro
A flight will take you to Paro in Bhutan and at the airport, you will be met by your guide. You’ll head to Thimphu and along the way will stop at Tachog Lhakhang, a 16th-century temple accessed by a traditional suspension bridge. In the evening, you will visit Buddha Dordenma, the largest statue of Buddha in the country.
There will be a lecture about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness index, highlighting the equal importance of economic, social, environmental, and cultural factors, followed by a traditional Bhutanese dinner.
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 6: Thimphu
After exploring the National Library, you'll interact with artists at the Voluntary Artists Studio, a gallery dedicated to promoting local talents. In the afternoon, your artistic journey continues with a visit to the Handmade Paper Factory, where you'll delve into the traditional craft of papermaking.
To wrap up the day, you'll head to the Takin Preserve, a sanctuary dedicated to Bhutan's national animal. The evening will be spent at Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress.
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 7: Paro
Perched at 2,200 meters above sea level, Paro serves as Bhutan's scenic gateway, where ancient temples and monasteries decorate the landscape. Your first visit is to the Memorial Chorten, Bhutan's most visible religious landmark. Continuing to Ta Dzong – the National Museum of Bhutan - where you can find some of the most exquisite specimens of Bhutanese art.
After lunch, you have the chance to put your archery skills to the test and also play Khuru, a traditional dart game, with some local children.
Overnight: Paro
Day 8: Paro
You will need your walking boots on today as you hike to Paro Takstang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. There are no roads for vehicles to reach Paro Takstang. Over a couple of hours, the views keep getting better and better as the mountains and the monastery perched on top of a cliff gradually come into view. Once at the top, a guide will take you around the monastery, and although no cameras are allowed inside, make sure you get plenty of pictures of the scenery outside.
In the afternoon, you will visit a traditional farmhouse and meet with a local family, gaining insights into everyday life and customs in Bhutan. Then, it is time to return to the hotel for one last evening meal together.
Overnight: Paro
Day 9: Departure
Time to go back to Kathmandu for your flight home and to say Tashi Deleck to Bhutan.
What is included:
Activities:
Whitewater rafting
Archery
Cooking class
Hike to Takstang Monastery
Visit Buddha Dordenma
Visit Tachog Lhakhang
Voluntary Artists Studio
Takin Preserve
Visit traditional farmhouse and family
Accommodation and services:
A 24/7 tour manager accompanying you throughout the trip
Private transportation throughout the trip
Accommodation during the project in project center
Post project accommodation in 3 and 4* hotels
All meals (please note we can cater to all dietary requirements)
Medical insurance up to $50,000 and baggage insurance are included
Tours:
Kathmandu
Boudhanath
Pashupatinath
National Library
National Museum
King’s Memorial Chorten
Taktsang Monastery
Not included in this Trip:
International Flights (we can set these up for you)
Visa costs
Any vaccinations required
Cancellation insurance (Medical insurance up to $50,000 and baggage insurance are included)