Kathmandu – Chitwan – Pokhara – Kathmandu – Thimphu – Punakha – Phobjikha Valley – Paro
Traverse the snow-capped Himalayas, delve into sacred monasteries, and experience the vibrant cultures of these secluded kingdoms. From the serene valleys of Bhutan to the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, this tour promises an enchanting exploration of spirituality, history, and awe-inspiring vistas. Let the mountains whisper their timeless tales as you uncover the hidden gems of Nepal and Bhutan, where ancient traditions intertwine with breathtaking natural beauty.
Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner
Day 1/Wed: Departing Home City
Your journey begins with your transpacific flight departing from a city of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.
Day 2/Thu: Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome to Kathmandu, capital of Nepal. Meet your guide on arrival at the airport and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3/Fri: Kathmandu (B/L/D)
Kathmandu stands at the elevation of approximately 1,350 meters in the bowl-shaped valley, surrounded by four major mountains. The city’s rich history dates back to 2000 years ago. Its religious affiliations are dominantly Hindu, followed by Buddhism and other beliefs. Nepali is the common language.
This morning, we visit Kopan Monastery and Boudhanath Stupa. Kopan Monastery sits on top of the Kopan hill just north of the ancient Buddhist town of Boudhanath. Dominated by a magnificent bodhi tree, the hill was once the home of the astrologer to the king of Nepal. Now it is the home of a monastery in the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism under the guidance of Lama Zopa Rinpoche. There are 360 monks from all areas of Nepal and Tibet with ages ranging from seven to sixty years old.
The ancient Boudhanath stupa, on top of a massive mandala, is one of the largest spherical stupas in Nepal. It was built on the ancient trade route from Tibet to the Kathmandu Valley. Thousands of pilgrims gather daily to make a kora (ritual circumnavigation) of the dome. In the evening the whole place lights up with butter lamps and the wafting smell of sage gives a calming effect. The plaza surrounding the stupa is open to people of all religions. Tibetan monks, the elderly, and other devotees can be seen spinning prayer wheels, chanting mantras, or just strolling in silence around the monument.
After lunch we visit Patan Durbar Square, just 5 km south of the Kathmandu. Patan is one of the three royal cities in the Valley, known for its various Buddhist and Hindu temples and over 1000 monuments featuring the finest wood and stone carvings. After the devastating 2015 earthquake, Patan was first to rise above the rubble and open to tourists.
Also on our schedule today is an interactive session with an ex-Kumari (Living Goddess). A Kumari is believed to be the living incarnation of the goddess Taleju (also known as Durga). The Kumari is selected by a council from Newari people (native inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley).
Day 4/Sat: Kathmandu (B/L)
After breakfast, we drive to Bhaktapur, 14 km east of Kathmandu.
Bhaktapur is renowned for its art, culture, and indigenous lifestyle. The city is like an open museum with innumerable monumental masterpieces. Nyatapola Temple at Taumadhi Square is the country’s tallest pagoda temple. After viewing the most fascinating structures at Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square, we will have an opportunity to observe and try our hands at pottery making.
Day 5/Sun: Kathmandu – Chitwan (B/L/D)
This morning we drive through the winding gorges and across fast flowing rivers to the renowned Chitwan National Park.
The National Park lies in the Inner Terai lowlands and spreads over an area of 932 sq km. It’s home to numerous species of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Some endangered wildlife species found here include the one-horned rhinoceros and the Royal Bengal tiger, wild elephant, four-horned antelope, leopard, sloth bear, rhesus monkey, grey langur monkey and many other smaller animals. Also found here are cobras, kraits, pythons, crocodiles, and freshwater dolphins.
After lunch at the Jungle Lodge, we visit the small village of the Tharu ethnic group. In the evening, experience the vibrant traditional cultural performances of the Tharu community.
Day 6/Mon: Chitwan (B/L)
Embark on a full day of jungle activities, including an early morning jungle safari by jeep, canoeing and bird watching. Explore the park’s rich flora and fauna and penetrate through dense grasslands to view wildlife in their natural habitat.
Day 7/Tue: Chitwan – Pokhara (B/L)
After breakfast, transfer to Pokhara, the third largest city in Nepal and the starting point for most of the treks in the Annapurna area. Situated at an altitude of 872 m from the sea level and 200 km west of Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty. The serenity of lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic.
Later in the evening, enjoy a boat ride at Phewa Lake followed by a visit of Tal Barahi Temple located on an island in the middle of the lake.
Day 8/Wed: Pokhara (B/L)
Embark on an early morning excursion to Sarangkot for a stunning view over the Himalayas. Walk back through farms and forest for breakfast.
Take a momo making cooking class. Afternoon is at leisure.
Day 9/Thu: Pokhara – Kathmandu (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Later today we visit Sawyambhunath and Pashupatinath Temple.
Perched on top of a conical hill, Swayambthunath (also known as Monkey Temple) is a white dome with a glittering golden spire visible from all sides of the valley for many miles. The 2,500-old stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site. It is considered the most enigmatic of all the holy shrines in the Kathmandu Valley.
Also a UNESCO World Culture Heritage Site, Pashupatinath Temple is more than just a religious destination. It is a combination of religion, art and culture. Hundreds of rituals are performed here every day.
Following dinner, we have an interaction with a Sherpa and listen to his stories of climbing Mount Everest.
Day 10/Fri: Kathmandu (B)
Free day for shopping or exploring on your own.
Day 11/Sat: Kathmandu – Paro – Thimphu (IM/L/D)
Transfer to the airport for the 1-hour morning flight to Paro. We transfer to Thimphu immediately on arrival. During the one-hour drive to Bhutan’s capital, the visitor can’t help but marvel at the well protected environment.
After lunch, we visit the Memorial Chorten (temple) built in memory of the late 3rd king. Afterwards, we proceed to Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple offering a panoramic view of Thimphu Valley. Later in the afternoon, we tour Tashichho Dzong, a fortress that houses the throne of the king and serves as the seat of the Bhutanese government.
Day 12/Sun: Thimphu (B/L/D)
In the morning we visit a local market where residents from the surrounding villages come to buy and sell. This is followed by a tour of the School of Arts and Crafts where students learn 13 different forms of traditional arts including sculpture and furniture making.
Afternoon schedule includes the National Museum, National Library, and Bhutan Post Office where you can order stamps of your own design!
Day 13/Mon: Thimphu – Punakha (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we drive three hours to subtropical Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. On a clear day, the Dochula Pass en-route provides a spectacular view of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Prior to arrival at the hotel, we hike through lush rice paddies to Chimi Lakhang (temple of fertility and phallus worship) located on a hilltop.
If time allows, we’ll also visit a school today.
Day 14/Tue: Punakha (B/L/D)
We begin the day with a visit to Punakha Dzong, a historical fortress exemplifying the best of traditional Bhutanese architecture. After the visit, we go for a hike to lookout points for bird’s-eye view of the magnificent dzong.
Day 15/Wed: Punakha – Phobjikha Valley (B/L/D)
After breakfast we drive 2 hours further east to Phobjikha valley. The scenic drive is simply breathtaking. This valley is paradise for nature lovers and hosts a protected sanctuary for the endangered Black-necked Cranes which migrate here every winter.
After lunch at a farmer’s house, we spend two and a half hours hiking from the bottom of the valley to the hilltop Gangtey Monastery. A monk-led meditation session is arranged.
Day 16/Thur: Phobjikha Valley – Paro (B/L/D)
Free morning to explore on your own. We drive back to Paro (5 hours) after lunch.
Day 17/Fri: Paro (B/L/D)
Paro Taktsang, better known as Tiger’s Nest, is probably Bhutan’s most prominent Buddhist monastery. It is situated on a steep cliff side overlooking Paro Valley. The hike up to the monastery this morning takes 3 hours.
Afternoon sightseeing at Rinpung Dzong. The dzong is a practising monastery that also serves as the government office of the district.
Day 18/Sat: Paro – Home City (B)
Our tour ends this morning. Transfer to the airport anytime for your return flight.
Bhutan has no direct air links with countries outside Asia. To conveniently fly back home, you might have to go to New Delhi or Bangkok or Singapore first.
Click here if you are interested in a post-tour extension to Singapore.
Hotel List
| City/Location | Nights | Hotel | Category |
| Kathmandu – 1st stay | 3 | Hotel Radisson | Luxury |
| Chitwan | 2 | Kasara Resort | Luxury |
| Pokhara | 2 | Fishtail Lodge | Luxury |
| Kathmandu – 2nd stay | 2 | Hotel Radisson | Luxury |
| Thimphu | 2 | Terma Linca | Luxury |
| Punakha | 2 | Dhensa Boutique Resort | Luxury |
| Gangtey | 1 | Gangtey Lodge or similar | Luxury |
| Paro | 2 | Le Meridien | Luxury |
Dates & Prices
Prices are based on double occupancy. See Terms & Conditions for cancellation penalty. Scroll down for price inclusions & exclusions.
| Depart (Wed) |
Return (Sat) |
Land Only CA$/US$ |
Single Supplement CA$/US$ |
| 2024 | |||
| 20-Nov | 7-Dec | $13,760/$10,190 | $5,390/$3,990 |
| 2025 | |||
| 12-Mar | 29-Mar | $13,760/$10,190 | $5,390/$3,990 |
| 26-Mar | 12-Apr | $13,490/$9,990 | $5,390/$3,990 |
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What the tour price includes:
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What the tour price excludes:
See Terms & Conditions for more information. |
Passport
A passport with at least two (2) blank visa pages and six (6) months validity at the end of the tour is required. You’ll also need one photo of passport type (2×2 inches) for this trip but please bring an extra one just in case.
Nepal Tourist Visa-on-Arrival
Canadian and U.S. Citizens holding a valid passport can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and at the other designated entry points in Nepal. To avoid queue at the airport, you may also wish to obtain Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) from the Nepalese embassy country before travelling, but getting your visa on arrival is easy and simple enough to make obtaining ETA in prior to arrival unnecessary. Here are the steps to apply for your visa on arrival:
1. Filling out the Arrival Card’
This can be done online at https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/ prior to arrival or at the airport after arrival using Kiosk machines. If you do it online, you’ll be issued a Receipt with barcode, which you should print out and present it at the airport for visa application.
2. Make Payment with Cash
Visa fee in cash: US$ 30 for 15 days, US$ 50 for 30 days, US$ 125 for 90 days
Bhutan Tourist Visa
Laurus Travel will take care of your application. You are not required to do anything on this.
Health & Immunization
You are not required of any inoculation certificate to enter Nepal and Bhutan. We suggest you visit your family physician or a travel clinic to determine what precautions you should take. Furthermore, inoculation against hepatitis A is highly recommended for all travellers.
Tap water may not be safe to drink. Ask for bottled water when eating in restaurants. Also, try to avoid uncooked food. Even if the food you eat is clean, you may still experience stomach upset or diarrhea due to ingredients your stomach is not used to. Bottled water is readily available for purchase, but when buying bottled water from street vendors (especially at tourist sites), make sure the cap is properly sealed because some vendors may be selling tap water in recycled bottles.
Always carry a roll of toilet paper and a bottle of hand sanitizer containing more than 60% of alcohol, no matter where you go.
Money
Major credit cards are accepted throughout Nepal and Bhutan. Purchases must be made in local currencies. You may be able to withdraw cash from local ATMs using your bank card, but the cost is high. We strongly advise that you bring a few hundred US dollars in cash.
The US dollar bills you bring in must be in near mint condition. Any stain, marking or missing corner may result in rejection by the local banks and currency dealers. You do not need to get any local currency prior to arrival.
Currency
Nepal: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Bhutan: Bhutanese Ngultrum (NU)
Post-tour Singapore Extension
Day 18/Sat: Paro – Singapore (B)
The morning flight to Singapore aboard Royal Bhutan Airlines (Drukair) flight KB540 (07:50/15:55) includes with a 40-minute layover in Guwahati, India. Transfer to the hotel by taxi on arrival. The cab fare is around $20.
Day 19/Sun: Singapore (B)
Today’s sightseeing takes in Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Museum, historic Chinatown and Gardens by the Bay.
The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. It is home to some 300 plant species and plenty of birds including oriental pied hornbills, spotted wood owls, crimson sunbirds and stork-billed kingfishers. The famous National Orchid Garden inside is a key highlight of the Botanic Gardens.
The National Museum of Singapore is a critical depository of the island nation’s memory of its past since pre-colonial days. The museum refreshed its permanent galleries and reopened them on 19 September 2015 in celebration of Singapore’s Golden Jubilee.
The historic and vibrant Chinatown teems with eateries serving up all kinds of delicacies. What a good place for lunch!
Afternoon sightseeing takes place at the stunning Gardens by the Bay, a park spanning 101 hectares of reclaimed land adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. The extraordinary project brings to life the vision of the Government of Singapore to make the island city-state a “City in a Garden”. Two enormous conservatories and a grove of “Supertrees” dominate the site. The conservatories are intended to be an energy efficient showcase of sustainable building technologies and to provide an all-weather edutainment space within the Gardens. “Supertree Grove” is the name given to the towering, 16-storey structures that act as frames for climbing and epiphytic plants, as well being supports for solar panels. The Supertrees are lit at night in exhilarating displays.
Day 20/Mon: Singapore (B)
Free day to explore on your own.
Our recommendations include Sky Bridge at Pinnacle, Kranji War Memorial and a farm near the memorial.
Sky Bridge at Pinnacle is the world’s tallest public housing buildings to date and is comprised of seven 50-storey towers linked by multiple levels of open-air sky bridges. The Pinnacle offers unobstructed views of its surrounding area including Chinatown, the central business district, the busy Singapore harbour and Sentosa Island.
Kranji is located at the western tip of Singapore. Full of nurseries and mangroves, this is the only food-producing area in Singapore.
The Krangi War Memorial pays tribute to 24,000 Allied personnel including 9 Canadian airmen who perished during World War II. It is also the final resting place for 4,458 Allied servicemen in marked graves laid out in rows on maintained and manicured lawns.
Day 21/Tue: Singapore – Home city (B)
Your tour of Singapore concludes this morning. Transfer to the airport anytime by taxi.
Price available on request.
Singapore Tourist Visa
Visa is not required of nationals from Canada, the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom and a host of other Western countries if the stay is within 30 days. SG Arrival Card (SGAC) (not visa) must be submitted online 3 days prior to your arrival. Visit https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart/entering-singapore for details.