Premium Nepal & Bhutan

Intrepid Travel · 17 days

4.4

10 Reviews

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Duration

17 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore the Himalayan kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan on a 17-day Premium adventure.

Highlights

Experience two incredible Feature Stays – a stylish and elegant resort right on the border of Chitwan National Park, and a traditionally beautiful and eco-conscious resort tucked away in the gorgeous valley of Thimphu.
Get an intimate look at local culture with Exclusive Experiences, including a cooking class with the Seven Women social enterprise, lunch with a Tibetan community in Nepal, and a conversation with a senior monk at a monastery in Bhutan.
Witness world-class mountain scenery during a picturesque hike through the inspiring landscapes of Pokhara.
Come face to face with rare and fascinating wildlife in the breathtaking Phobjika valley, including a visit to a protection and information centre for black-necked cranes, a Premium Exclusive Experience.
Climb to the teetering monastery of Taktsang (the Tiger's Nest) 900 metres above Paro’s valley floor and take in once-in-a-lifetime views.

Trip Details

Duration

17 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Plane,Jeep,Canoe

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Kathmandu, Bhutan

Finishes

Paro, Bhutan

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Your adventure begins in Kathmandu, the country’s exhilarating capital. On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Join an important welcome meeting with your leader and small group at 6pm. If you arrive with time to spare, perhaps check out the futuristic Taragaon Museum, showcasing the intriguing history of Kathmandu’s architecture. After your meeting, head out into the hustle and bustle of the Thamel and Jyatha neighbourhoods for an included dinner with your leader and group. Eating in Nepal is never boring, and upon arrival at the authentic Nepali restaurant, you’ll discover a deliciously diverse array of dishes. Have a taste of some Woh, a pancake made from freshly ground black lentils, or Kukhurako Masu, chicken cooked Nepali style.

Included Activities:

Kathmandu - Welcome dinner
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer

Accommodation:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Kathmandu

After breakfast this morning, explore Kathmandu on a sightseeing tour with your leader. Head to the lively Durbar square, the once glorious centre of Nepal’s royal power. Visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the biggest Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the surrounding monasteries. Stop by a Thangka painting studio and gain inside knowledge on this sacred and traditional form of Buddhist art and the training that goes into being a Thangka artist. Visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, where you will see Hindu holy men meditating, pilgrims bathing, and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. The rest of your afternoon is free for further explorations.

Included Activities:

Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
Kathmandu - Durbar Square
Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa and Monastery visit
Kathmandu - Thangka Painting Studio Visit

Optional Activities:

Kathmandu - Everest scenic flight (240 USD)

Accommodation:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Nagarkot

This morning, set off for a truly special experience that is sure to be one of your enduring memories of Nepal. Visit the headquarters of Sungava Nepal, a social enterprise that works to improve the lives of disadvantaged women in Nepal. Meet the local women and hear how the enterprise has changed their lives. Tour their greenhouse and learn about Nepali vegetables, then learn some traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Master the local methods of cooking and put together some classic dishes, then sit down to lunch with your new friends. After lunch, begin the journey to Nagarkot. Along the way, stop off at Bhaktapur, a beautifully preserved ancient city and host to a wondrous range of temples and statues. Explore three of the most important squares, Durbar Square, Taumadhi Square and Pottery Square, before continuing to Nagarkot, where you'll prepare for an overnight stay at Club Himalaya, renowned for its unrestricted view of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Changu Narayan and the surrounding areas. End the day with a toast to your fabulous view over sunset cocktails.

Included Activities:

Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour
Nagarkot - Sunset local cocktail at Club Himalaya (one drink included)
Kathmandu - Cooking class at Sungava Nepal

Accommodation:

Club Himalaya or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Pokhara

Wake up and witness an early morning 180-degree sunrise view before travelling to Kathmandu airport by chartered coach. From here, you will fly to Pokhara – if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Himalayan mountain chain to the north. On arrival, take a boat ride across the lake of Phewa Tal, the second largest lake in Nepal. The visit to the Peace Pagoda afterwards grants excellent views of the mountains including the Annapurnas, the famous fishtail peak of Machhapuchhare and a glimpse back across to Pokhara. In the afternoon, perhaps take some time to enjoy Pokhara’s mellow atmosphere and wander its colourful streets, or take a stroll along the scenic lake and see the brightly painted paddle boats bobbing in the water. Pokhara has no shortage of restaurants to tempt your taste buds so be sure to ask your leader for some great local recommendations.

Included Activities:

Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip
Pokhara - Peace Pagoda

Accommodation:

Hotel Barahi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Pokhara

Start the day with a visit to Sarangkot Viewpoint for a sunrise over the snowcapped Himalayan peaks, from the Annapurna Ranges to Fishtail Mountain (Machhapuchhre). Your leader will be on hand to answer any questions about the inspiring landscape as you marvel at the sweeping vistas. Then head to the International Mountain Museum, which is full of fascinating tales and exploits from climbing expeditions of the past – some ending in triumph and others in tragedy. After some time at the museum, make a visit to a Tibetan community. Hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings), which you will then eat together for lunch. Enjoy a free evening in Pokhara.

Included Activities:

Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch
Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
Pokhara - Sarangkot Viewpoint

Accommodation:

Hotel Barahi or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, make the morning drive to Chitwan and arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights, Barahi Jungle Lodge. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the Rapti River, opposite Chitwan National Park, this jungle oasis offers first-class service and naturally warm Nepali hospitality. After settling in, there’s some flexibility with activities in the afternoon, which may vary depending on the time of year and known wildlife movements and locations. In the late afternoon, you might like to make your way down to the Rapti River and enjoy a cool beverage and snacks on the banks while you watch the sun set and the birds return home. Back at the resort, you’re in for a real treat with a delicious group dinner this evening. Feel a world away from it all while the chirping of crickets serenades your dinner and you swap stories with your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:

Chitwan NP - Village tour

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (feature stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Chitwan National Park

After breakfast, leave the lodge for an early morning dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. Your tour leader will help you spot marsh mugger crocodiles along with the various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Tiger sightings are rare these days, but the magnificent creatures inhabit the park so it’s not to be ruled out. Upon your return to dry land, set out on a late afternoon safari - an experience like none other, showing the varied and exciting flora and fauna of the park. In the evening, enjoy dinner with your group and relax at your accommodation’s fabulous bar while discussing the day’s sightings or listening to the song of the jungle.

Included Activities:

Chitwan - Sunset Snacks by Rapti River
Chitwan - Private bush dinner (on hotel grounds)
Chitwan - Canoe Safari
Chitwan - Jeep Safari Tour

Accommodation:

Barahi Jungle Lodge (feature stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Kathmandu

Enjoy breakfast at the resort before driving back to Kathmandu. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, so perhaps engage in some shopping or learn more of Nepal’s cultural heritage during a visit to the Nepali Folk Musical Instrument Museum, home to more than 650 unique instruments. This evening, you may wish to join your leader and group for a farewell dinner at a fantastic local restaurant, leaving you with a final memory of Nepal’s beautiful and traditional food.

Accommodation:

Yak and Yeti Kathmandu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Paro - Thimphu

Today wave goodbye to Nepal and catch an unescorted flight to Bhutan, a land where mystery and legend go hand in hand. On arrival, you will be met at Paro airport and transferred to Thimphu (2400 m), Bhutan’s capital city. After settling in, there will be a second welcome meeting to meet your new group and tour leader. If time permits, join your leader for an orientation walk to get acquainted with Thimphu’s main street, and visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in honour of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a wonderful restaurant that’s a favourite with the locals. Learn about the rich history of Bhutanese cuisine as you tuck into a traditional feast, including seasonal vegetables and the country’s signature dish – red rice with a tasty chili cheese. You may like to try some Bhutanese peach wine or perhaps some Ara, the national spirit, served neat and hot.

Included Activities:

Thimphu - Welcome dinner

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Thimphu

After breakfast you will venture out to explore Thimphu. Stop off at Buddha point, named after its giant gilded Buddha statue, and take in panoramic views of the city. Take a short hike through pine trees where your leader will help you spot takin, the national animal of Bhutan, a unique goat-antelope creature. Carry on to the Zilukha Nunnery then pass by the fortress and monastery of Tashichho Dzong, sitting on the banks of the Thimphu Chhu river. After lunch, your leader will weave together the fascinating cultural heritage of Bhutan during visits to the National Textile Museum, Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum (where you can try your hand at Bhutan’s national sport: archery), and the Voluntary Artists School in Thimphu, an institution where young people receive formal education in the art of traditional painting, sculpture, and woodcarving. Thimphu has an excellent range of handicrafts, most notably woven cloth, wooden masks, thangkas, silverware, jewellery, and bamboo crafts that come from all over Bhutan.

Included Activities:

Thimphu - National Library
Thimphu - National Textile Museum
Thimphu - Takin Conservation Park
Thimphu - Voluntary Artists School
Thimphu - Buddha Dordenma
Thimphu - Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum

Accommodation:

Terma Linca Resort & Spa or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Phobjikha

This morning, visit Desho Paper Factory to see a traditional method of making paper by hand. Next, travel out to the castle-monastery of Simtokha Dzong, built to guard against a demon that is said to have escaped into the nearby rock. Next, drive the winding Dochula pass (3100 m), marked by more than a hundred chortens built in memory of Bhutanese soldiers killed fighting Indian insurgents in 2003. Then continue to Punakha and before arrival, stop at a local village and take a short walk to the Chimi Lhakhang – The Temple of Fertility. Your leader will explain how people from all corners of the country visit the Lhakhang to seek a blessing from Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the ‘Divine Madman’. A revered womaniser and drinker, this wandering preacher taught that sexual freedom was at the centre of Truth. On the walk through the village of Sopsokha to the temple you will notice the phallic symbols painted on walls, a symbol of fertility and protection from evil. Arrive at your resort in Punakha and enjoy fabulous views of the valley.

Included Activities:

Dochula Pass - Druk Wangyal Chortens
Thimphu - Simtokha Dzong
Thimhpu - Desho Paper Factory
Phobjikha - Gangtoe Goemba

Accommodation:

Dewachen Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Phobjikha

Begin the day with a short drive to the base of a hill where a ridge-top monastery sits. In this almost sub-tropical valley, begin a hike at a suspension bridge that crosses the Mo Chu river and pass through paddy fields before starting to climb a moderately inclined trail to the Kahmsum Yulley temple. Built by the Queen Mother, the temple is a classic example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions. From the top you can take in sweeping views across the valley. After a lunch, you’ll visit the white-walled, red-roofed Punakha Dzong, the administrative and religious centre and winter retreat of His Holiness, Je Khenpo – the chief abbot of Bhutan. The Dzong boasts intricately carved woodwork, prayer halls and beautiful religious paintings on walls and doorways. End the day at the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Temple and nunnery, where you’ll arrive in time for evening prayers.

Included Activities:

Phobjikha - Valley hiking
Phobjikha - Black Necked Crane Information Center

Accommodation:

Dewachen Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Punakha

This morning, pass through lush forests and luxuriant vegetation as you make the scenic drive to Phobjikha. Here you’ll find a spectacular valley rich with wildlife – keep an eye out for serows, a mystical goat-like animal, and muntjacs, also known as barking deer. Make an afternoon visit to Gangte Goemba, an expansive monastery with magnificent views of the valley. This hilltop complex is one of Bhutan’s two main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. Your guide will provide a local perspective on the subjects of Buddhism and happiness – the two most important pillars of Bhutanese culture. With happiness at front-of-mind, the Bhutanese government employ a Gross National Happiness index to measure the wellbeing of its people and to convey the importance of non-economic factors such as sustainability, culture and community vitality.

Included Activities:

Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang

Accommodation:

Lobesha Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Punakha

Start the day with a visit to the centre of the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) where you will learn about the vulnerable black-necked cranes who fly to Bhutan each winter. The Phobjika valley receives more of these lovely visitors than any other part of the country, and the RSPN have taken special measures to protect them, as well as 13 other vulnerable species. Read informative displays on the cranes’ habitat and behaviour, and use the centre’s spotting-scopes to search for cranes in the valley. Wild cranes will only be visible during the winter months, but if you visit outside of this period you may still have the chance to see black-necked cranes that are being rehabilitated in the centre. In the afternoon, join your leader on a gentle two hour hike around the valley and learn about the flora and fauna that call this majestic preserve home. Start off from a hilltop overlooking Gangte Goemba, wander down through flower meadows and beautiful forests, passing by a chorten, the village of Semchubara and the Khewa Lhakhang temple.

Included Activities:

Punakha - Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Punakha - Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
Punakha - Punakha Dzong

Accommodation:

Lobesha Boutique Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Paro

This morning, begin the journey to Paro. On arrival, visit the impressive Ta Dzong, a 17th century watchtower that now houses the National Museum. Enjoy some free time to wander in the Paro town before making your way to your Feature Stay accommodation, a Hotel conveniently located in the heart of the Paro Town that blends classical Bhutanese architecture and modern comforts,and offers views of the surrounding valley. In the afternoon, visit Kaja Throm, a local farmers market, before enjoying dinner with your group.

Included Activities:

Paro - Kaja Throm Market Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel Kaachi Grand or Similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Paro

Miraculously balanced 900 metres above the valley floor sits Taktsang, or the Tiger’s Nest, a beautiful monastery and Bhutan’s most recognised building. After breakfast, begin a hike through plentiful pine forests, passing beneath thousands of brightly coloured prayer flags. Your leader will guide you up into the mountains for a closer view of the temple, sharing the legend of its history along the way. Reach a small teahouse and stop for lunch and refreshments while taking in truly unforgettable views. For those interested, it’s possible to get a closer look at the Tiger’s Nest by hiking another hour each way to reach the temple. Anyone not interested in hiking further can relax at the teahouse and soak it all in. Back in Paro, immerse yourself in traditional Bhutanese culture as you visit a farmhouse for a home-cooked final dinner.

Included Activities:

Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
Paro - Home-cooked dinner

Optional Activities:

Paro - Hot Stone Bath (25 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel Kaachi Grand or Similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Paro

After breakfast your driver will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. Please check with your tour leader about the exact departure time from the hotel. Please note that your tour leader may not be with you as the group may leave on different flights.

Included Activities:

Paro - Complimentary Departure Transfer

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $11,995

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 17 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Explore the Himalayan kingdoms of Nepal and Bhutan on a 17-day Premium adventure.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 03 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

2.0

Louise

Traveled, March 2024

04/16/2024

First time in 16 trips I have complained. This is not an Intrepid trip. You are subcontracted to Amen travel. They know and care little about the usual values you would expect. There is no feature stay we ended up in a poor hotel - no hot water and none of the premium items listed. Bhutan great - just don’t pick this trip. I tried to reach out on the trip to Intrepid about the outsourcing issues but they just pushed me back to the local company. Go to Bhutan but don’t do this trip.

4.0

Geraldine

Traveled, October 2023

11/14/2023

Great trip. Go to Bhutan before tourism really changes it. What a wonderful place to learn about Buddhism in everyday life. We were fortunate to coincide with a festival in Bhutan. Great guides.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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