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Scarcely an hour apart from each other via one of the most beautiful flights in the world, Nepal and Bhutan seem to share so much from above… the Himalayas, a rich culture, borders with China and India and warm, wonderful people. Travelers to these two countries delight in the stark differences and how richly they complement each other. The ancient town of Kathmandu has many UNESCO protected sights and historical offerings and has plenty to offer a short term visitor. Arriving in Bhutan, visitors find a much slower pace and peaceful environment. Gross National Happiness is practiced in this largely Buddhist country and applied to all governmental decisions. Though small and technically a part of the third world, many would argue that Bhutan is among the most progressive countries in the world. Join these two countries together in one fantastic itinerary for an unforgettable adventure!
Highlights
| Day | Description | Overnight | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu. | Kathmandu | 1,340m/4,300ft |
| Day 2 | Explore Kathmandu. | Kathmandu | 1,340m/4,300ft |
| Day 3 | Explore Kathmandu. | Kathmandu | 1,340m/4,300ft |
| Day 4 | Kathmandu – Paro. Drive to Thimpu. | Thimpu | 2,334m/7,375ft |
| Day 5 | Explore Thimpu. | Thimpu | 2,334m/7,375ft |
| Day 6 | Drive to Punakha. Explore Punakha. | Punakha | 1,242m/4,075ft |
| Day 7 | Drive to Paro. | Paro | 2,200m/7,218ft |
| Day 8 | Explore Paro. | Paro | 2,200m/7,218ft |
| Day 9 | Final departure |
Arrival in Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel. Cultural Nepali dinner in the evening.
Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).
Meals: Dinner
Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight Namgay Heritage. (3 star)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight Namgay Heritage (3 star)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Before proceeding further to the town of Punakha, hike about 30 minutes to the Chimi Lhakhang (temple) on a small hilltop. The temple was dedicated to the great Yogi in the 14th century, known as Drukpa Kuenley, as well as the “Divine madman.” He dramatized Buddhist teachings using songs and outrageous sexual humor. Bold phallus symbols and paintings on the houses and temples are a result of his influence. It is believed that this temple blesses women who seek fertility.
After lunch, continue to Punakha Dzong (fortress) situated between the two rivers, Pho Chu and Mochu (male and female river). The fortress is now used as the winter seat of Je Khenpo (the spiritual head of Bhutan). The Dzong served as the capital seat of the Kingdom for more than 300 years. The intricate Buddhist paintings inside the monastery are spectacular.
Overnight Meri Puensum (3 star)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight Tashi Namgay or similar. (3 star)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Built in 1600s, the monastery clings to the edge of a sheer-rock cliff that plunges 2,952 feet into the valley below. It is believed that, in the 8th century, Guru Rimpoche, the tantric mystic who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, landed here on the back of a flying tigress to subdue a demon. Guru Rimpoche is believed to have meditated here for three months. Packed lunch will be served.
Drive further up the valley to Drukgyel Dzong, the fortress of the victorious Drukpas. From Drukgyel Dzong, the Tibet border is only a two-day hike away.
Overnight Tashi Namgay Resort or similar. (3 star)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Final departure. You can fly either to Kathmandu, Bangkok or Delhi for you flight back home.
Meals: Breakfast
Per person price (valid till December 31, 2021)
1 person: $ 3,200 USD per person (includes single supplement)
2 persons: $ 2,880 USD
3 or more persons: $ 2,560 USD per person
Single Supplement: $ 500 USD
Upgrade to 4/5 star properties available starting for an additional $1,500 per person.
EXTRA:
Bangkok – Kathmandu – Paro – Bangkok @ USD $750 per person (economy class)
Expert pre-trip advice and detailed information; Meeting and assistance at airport and transfers to hotels; All in-country transportation and sightseeing (entrance fees included); Hotel accommodations on twin sharing basis; Meals as indicated on itinerary; Tours and excursions outlined on itinerary; Bhutan Visa and Tourism Development Fee
Your international airfare; Nepal visa; Meals not indicated in the itinerary; Tips and gratuities; Travel insurance (recommended); Other expenses of a personal nature (soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, internet, battery charging, comfort food etc.)
It is POSSIBLE to customize and extend this trip…
If you wish to extend this trip in Nepal, you can visit Pokhara for fabulous views of the Annapurna range (2 to 3 days) or visit the tropical jungles in Chitwan National Park in Southern Nepal (3 days). Or you may do both. Both Chitwan and Pokhara have airports with daily flights. However, there are flights only in October for the Chitwan to Pokhara sector.
If you wish to extend this trip in Bhutan, you can proceed further east from Punakha to the Bumthang valley. This will add another 4 to 5 days to the trip.
