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Essence of Bhutan and Nepal

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Why Book With Us?

  • Over 30 years experience
  • Nepal based, Nepali owned
  • No hidden costs
  • Personalized services

Got a Question?

Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+977-01-4416813

info@crystalmountaintreks.com

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9 days, 8 nights
Availability : February - May and October - December
Min Age : 10+
Max People : 16

Bhutan and Nepal share many similarities. The Himalayas and a rich culture. And both countries border China and India. The one-hour flight from Bhutan to Nepal is via one of the most beautiful flight in the world. Travelers to these two countries delight in the stark differences but also how richly they complement each other. The ancient town of Kathmandu has many UNESCO protected sites of historical and cultural significance. 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 a journey to these two countries together in one fantastic itinerary for an unforgettable adventure!

Highlights of Essence of Bhutan and Nepal

  • Explore the ancient UNESCO sites of Kathmandu and Bhutan
  • Hike to the cliff hanging Tiger’s Nest in Paro
  • Watch a Hindu cremation along the ghats of Bagmati in Kathmandu
  • Compare and contrast the two different Himalayan Buddhist styles of Nepal and Bhutan

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

All our Essence of Bhutan and Nepal programs are private journeys for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.

We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

OverviewItineraryCostMapPhotosOptionsFAQReviews

The journey begins in bustling Kathmandu. Explore the sights and sounds of Kathmandu and seven of the UNESCO world heritage sites in the Kathmandu valley. After a couple nights in Kathmandu, fly along the Himalayas to Paro in Bhutan. On the flight, on a clear day, enjoy views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu and Mt. Kanchenjunga (all above 8,000 meters).

In Bhutan, travel to Thimpu, Punakha and Paro exploring the natural and cultural beauty of the magical kingdom.

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Trip at a glance

Brief Itinerary

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    
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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Kathmandu

Arrival in Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel. Cultural Nepali dinner in the evening.

Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).

Meals: Dinner

Day 2Exploring Kathmandu

Full day sightseeing of Kathmandu. Visit Pashupatinath, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal. Witness a Hindu cremation along the Ghats of the Bagmati river. Circumambulate the Bodnath Stupa along with hundreds of Nepali and Tibetan Buddhists. After lunch, continue your sightseeing. Marvel at the exquisite architecture of the temples and palaces at Patan Durbar Square.

Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3Exploring Kathmandu

Full day sightseeing of Kathmandu. Visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, the city of devotees, which is regarded as an open museum with temples and palaces built alongside people’s homes. After lunch, climb the 365 steps of the Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath Stupa) to erase the sins of a life-time.

Overnight Hotel Shambala or similar (4 star).

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4Fly to Paro. Drive to Thimpu.

Fly Kathmandu to Paro. As you fly into Bhutan, you will admire the enormity of the Eastern Himalayas including Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchendzonga (the tallest and the third tallest mountains in the world respectively).
You will be met upon arrival in Paro. Drive to Thimphu (one-hour drive). Thimphu, the Bhutanese capital (7,609 feet), is situated in a valley surrounded by terraced rice fields. The main street in Thimphu, Norzim Lam, is lined with shops.

Overnight Namgay Heritage. (3 star)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5Explore Thimpu

Visit Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Drive to Drubthop Lhakhang, the nunnery temple. Learn more about the culture through visits to the Bhutanese Indigenous Hospital and Traditional Painting School. Visit Tashicho Dzong, the administrative headquarters of Bhutan.

Overnight Namgay Heritage (3 star)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6Drive to Punakha. Explore.

Drive to Punakha after breakfast at the hotel. The road climbs steeply through a scenic forest of pine and cedar trees, to Dochula pass (10,000 feet). The pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges, on the descent to the fertile valley of Punakha (4,430 feet).

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

Day 7Drive to Paro

Return drive to Paro.

Overnight Tashi Namgay or similar. (3 star)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8Exploring Paro

Begin the day with breakfast before a short drive to Taktshang Monastery. The trail to the monastery climbs through pine trees festooned with Spanish moss and occasional fluttering prayer flags. Hike at your own pace for about two to four hours.

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

Day 9Final departure

Final departure. You can fly either to Kathmandu, Bangkok or Delhi for you flight back home.

Meals: Breakfast

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Detailed Cost Information

Per person price (valid till December 31, 2023)
2 persons: $ 3,630 USD
3 or more persons: $ 3,310 USD per person
Single Supplement: $ 500 USD

Upgrade to 4/5 star properties available starting for an additional $1,500 per person.

EXTRA (subject to change):

Bangkok – Kathmandu – Paro – Bangkok @ USD $750 per person (economy class)

 

Price Includes

  • 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

Price Excludes

  • 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.)
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Trip Gallery
  • Thimpu town
  • Tiger's Nest
  • View from Dochula
  • Tiger's Nest, Paro
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Punakha Dzong
  • Penis mural on the wall
  • Archery in progress
  • pottery at Bhaktapur, Nepal
  • Bouddha Nath Stupa, Bouddha, Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Bodhnath, Bouddha, Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur, Nepal

Options

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

How do I get a Nepal visa?

You can get a Nepal visa either on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport or prior to arrival by sending an application to the Nepali consulate in your country. Do read our blog on how to obtain a visa at the Kathmandu airport.

How do I get a Bhutan visa?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners. We will obtain a Bhutan permit for you prior to you trip begin date. You must carry this permit with you in person and present it prior to boarding the plane to Paro (either in Kathmandu, Delhi or Bangkok). You will be required to present it again at the immigration in Paro.

What is the food like on this trip?

While the staple in Nepal is Daal-Bhaat (rice and lentils), Kathmandu offers multiple culinary choices including Continental, Chinese, Thai etc.

Thimpu in Bhutan too offers multiple culinary options. But they may limited in other regions of Bhutan. The most distinctive characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. Chillies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that is not spicy.

Rice forms staple Bhutanese diet. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are consumed most often.

Is there a limit on the number of tourists allowed to visit Bhutan each year?

This is actually a myth. There is NO limit on the number of tourists allowed to visit in a year. Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact ” tourism policy. If you can PAY for the trip, you can go.

Are there ATM's available? Are credit card payments accepted?

Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara in Nepal and Paro and Thimpu in Bhutan do have ATM facilities. But do be careful that the ATM machines may not always be working. So it is a good idea to always some USD/EURO or GBP currency in cash.

All big hotels and shops will accept credit card payments but will also charge a 3-4%

Read More

Related Tours

Renjo La - Gokyo Lakes

Gokyo Lakes Trek

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18 days, 17 nights
Availability : March - June and October - December

Activity: Lodge Trek
Destination: Everest
Country: Nepal

GOKYO LAKES TREK

The Gokyo Lakes trek is a great alternative for those who wish to avoid the popular (and busy) trail to Everest Base Camp. Moreover, the views from Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft.) and Renjo La pass (5,465m /17,930ft) are arguably better than those from Kalapathar. A little above Namche, the trail to Gokyo splits from the trail to the Everest Base Camp. Head North, following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Ngozumpa glacier. Trekking to the Gokyo Lakes allows you to enjoy views of giants such as Everest, Cho-Oyu, Makalu, Pumori, Amadablam, Thamserku, Tarboche, Cholatse etc.

Mountain view from Renjo La pass
Mountain view from Renjo La pass just above Gokyo Lake

THE TREK

From Namche, head north west following the Dudh Koshi river to its source near the Gokyo Lakes.  The Gokyo Lakes trek culminates at Gokyo on the banks of the third lake. Here, we will spend three nights exploring the area. On our second day at Gokyo, hike to either Gokyo Ri or Renjo La pass for views of the lakes and the mountains (see photo above). On the third day, hike to the 5th lakes for up-close views of Cho Oyu and other mountains.

It is possible to combine trekking to the Gokyo Lake with the Everest Base Camp trek. Check out our 19-day Everest Base Camp Trek or the 15-day Everest Base Camp – fast paced trek. Also, if you have more time and wish to be more adventurous, check out the Ultimate Everest Trek. This involves crossing two passes: the Cho La pass (Everest Base Camp to Gokyo lake) and the Renjo La pass (from Gokyo lake to Thame). Furthermore, an even more physically challenging trek is the Everest Three Passes Trek. No climbing skills are required for these treks. We are also happy to customize any of these treks for you. Click on the options tab to check out more options.

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Gokyo Lakes Trek is a lodge trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail. The quality of the lodges on this trek are quite comparable to those on the Everest Base Camp Trek. And quite a few of them have en suite rooms with hot showers. Meals are also quite varied with many options including rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. Read our article about food options on Everest treks.

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the trekking to the Gokyo Lakes are Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-November). It is also possible to do this trek in Winter months of December, January and February if you do not intend to cross the passes. While it will obviously be very cold (upto -20 C/, -4 F), it will be less crowded and there aren’t as many trekkers in the area.

TREK RATING

The Gokyo Lakes trek is rated “STRENUOUS”. It is rated 4 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). While the highest altitude reached is at Gokyo Ri (5,357 meters), the highest overnight elevation is at Gokyo Lakes (4,750m/15,500 feet) which is much lower than on the Everest Base Camp Trek. Average daily hiking times is 5 to 6 hours with one long day of around 7 hours on the day hike to the 5th lakes. It is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

All our Gokyo Lakes Treks are private treks for a minimum of two participants for a date of your choosing. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – all inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. Most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We have been in business for over 30 years and we employ only the most professional and friendly staff.

We are also proud to give back to our community through 3 Summits For Nepal managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

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Makalu and Base Camp

Makalu Base Camp Trek

From$3,060
21 days, 20 nights
Availability : April - May and October - November

Activity: Trekking
Destination: Makalu
Country: Nepal

MAKALU BASE CAMP TREK

On the Makalu Base Camp trek, participants get up-close with the fifth highest mountain in the world – Mt. Makalu (8,485m). Eric Shipton was the first outsider to have trekked in the region in the 1950’s. Consequently, the Shipton Pass on this trek was named after him. The first climb on Makalu was made by an American team led by Riley Keegan and Sierra Club members including Bill Long and Allen Steck. They attempted via the southeast ridge but they turned back at 23,300 ft. due to bad weather. The first ascent of Makalu was by a French expedition team on May 15, 1955.

The Makalu Base Camp Trek starts at a relatively lower elevation which is home to Rai’s, Gurung’s and Tamang people. The last permanent settlement is Tashigaon which is the home of the Sherpa people. Ascending slowly, the trek follows a trail through the beautiful Makalu Barun National Park which is home to diverse flora and fauna. Continue to trek past the Barun river along spectacular granite rocks, pastures and waterfalls.

The Trek

The Makalu Base Camp trek is quickly emerging as a popular trekking destination especially among trekkers who prefer solitude. Trekking to Makalu is a great alternative to the more busier treks in the Everest and Annapurna region. And with daily flights available to Tumlingtar, the Makalu Base Camp Trek is also quite easily accessible. It has all the makings of an epic Himalayan trek including stunning snow-clad mountain scenery, high passes, intriguing mix of Nepal’s culture and soaring Himalayan peaks.

The journey begins with a 35-minute flight to Tumlingtar from where we drive to the road-head on a chartered vehicle. The lower parts of the Makalu region are quite hot and humid with lush rhododendron and oak forests, cardamom plantations. Ascend slowly over several passes and follow the Barun river valley to the Makalu Base Camp. Return to Tumlingtar is along the same trail but vistas are quite spectacular in both directions. For more information, do check out Jwalant’s blog: My Makalu Base Camp Trek

ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a combo Lodge Trek/Camping Trek. This means you will sleep and eat meals in local lodges along the trail and also in tents where necessary. The lodges on this trek are quite basic. Meals are not as varied as on the Everest or the Annapurna treks but options do include rice with veggies, noodles, local breads etc. On this trek, we will carry some food to supplement what’s available at the local lodges and a certified trekking cook will accompany the group to prepare more varied meals. Furthermore, we will also carry tents so you may opt to sleep in tents in some of the more basic places.

Video of our monsoon trek (June) to Makalu Base Camp:

BEST SEASON

Like most treks in Nepal, the best seasons for the Makalu Base Camp trek are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November).

TREK RATING

The Makalu Base Camp trek is rated “CHALLENGING”. It is rated 5 on a rating scale from 1 (easy) to 5 (challenging). While it does NOT involve crossing 5,000 meter mountain passes, it is probably the MOST CHALLENGING trek in Nepal in terms of daily elevation gain/loss. No technical climbing experience is required but some sections of the trail (all stair-cases) are almost 50 degrees steep. The highest overnight altitude reached is at Makalu Base Camp (4,800 m/15,750ft) and the highest elevation reached is at the view point above base camp (5,300m/17,400 feet). There are two acclimatization days to allow for proper acclimatization.

Trekking to Makalu involves average daily hiking or around 6 hours with a few longer days of around 7-8 hours. Also, this is a relatively long trek in a remote area. Regardless of the rating, it is important to prepare for any trek in Nepal. Read our advice on training for treks.

WHY TREK WITH US?

The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a private trek for a minimum of two participants. We do NOT nickel-and-dime on services – inclusions and exclusions are clearly listed in cost details. Some companies will advertise trips for very low prices but they have a lot of exclusions that is usually not clear. With over 30 years of experience, most of our trekkers are either repeat clients or referrals. We employ the most professional and friendly staff. We are also proud to give back to our community through our giving arm – 3 Summits For Nepal – managed by Crystal Mountain Treks staff. Contact us to learn more…

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