27 Days
from
$13,829 pp ex Perth
Tour only from $12,399
Single Supplement – $2,989
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Authentic Experiences
Step into a journey that connects you deeply with the spirit of the Himalayas on this 27-day Authentic Nepal and Bhutan small group tour. Wander through the lively backstreets of Kathmandu by rickshaw, experience the calm of Boudhanath Stupa, and learn the art of the singing bowl. Share stories over home-cooked meals at a Panauti homestay, explore the UNESCO city of Bhaktapur, and spot rhinos and crocodiles on a safari through Chitwan National Park.
In Bhutan, discover the country’s timeless traditions, from intricate weaving villages to colourful local festivals like Domkhar and Ura. Walk through the Punakha Dzong, marvel at the giant Buddha Dordenma overlooking Thimphu Valley, and end your journey with the unforgettable climb to the sacred Tiger’s Nest Monastery. This is travel that moves at a thoughtful pace, filled with warm encounters, breathtaking scenery, and moments you’ll carry long after you return home.
- Explore the backstreets of Kathmandu by Rickshaw
- Visit Boudhanath, the world’s largest Buddhist stupa
- Have an experience with a Singing Bowl
- Visit the Thangka Painting School
- Explore the UNESCO site of Bhaktapur with local tastings and see a pottery class
- Visit Bamboo School and learn about this amazing national education program
- Visit one of the oldest temples in Nepal, Changunarayan
- Stay at Panauti Homestay with many local activities
- Go on land and water safari in Chitwan National Park
- Explore Pokhara and the Phewa Lake, the second largest in Nepal
- Experience an incredible sunrise with views of Annapurna
- Visit the huge statue of Buddha Dordenma with it’s incredible view of Thimphu Valley
- Visit the imposing Punakha Dzong built in 1637
- Explore by foot the numerous towns and stunning landscapes of Eastern Bhutan
- Experience the Domkhar Festival
- Experience the Ura Festival
- Visit small villages famous for weaving and pottery
- Learn about the history of Guru’s and meditation which Bhutan is famous for
- Have the option of climbing all the way to the famous Tiger’s Nest
- PLUS so much more!
Journey Map
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Itinerary
Welcome to Nepal!
On arrival in Kathmandu: Having cleared immigration, collected your luggage and passed through customs, please make your way towards the exit of the terminal building where you will see a bank of people waiting. Amongst them will be an Office Representative who will be waiting to greet you with a paging board.
Upon Arrival transfer to hotel for check in.
In the evening, welcome dinner at Dechenling Restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi 4* or similar. Meals: Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Today we start the day with visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square. Kathmandu Durbar Square is located in the heart of the old city Kathmandu. Once residence of Nepal’s royal family it has numerous ancient shrines and temples in and around the premises. The place is decorated with wooden carvings and rich architecture and history. All around the splendor of historical monuments is the hustle & bustle of the marketplace. Vegetable vendors, trees of flutes, salesmen with their wares displayed on their person, souvenir hawkers, and street shop selling imported goods and tucked away in a quiet corner the glittering bead market for custom made bead necklaces. A few steps away is the Temple of the Living Goddess, from where you can see the Kumari in one of the open windows that overlook the inner courtyard.
Enhancement activities:
- Rickshaw ride: Later, we can take a rickshaw to Thamel. The rickshaw ride will take you through the narrow streets of Kathmandu and you will see the old traditional houses with many wooden sculptures.
Later, visit Patan, city of fine arts. Patan is better known as “The city of a thousand golden roofs.” Once separated from the capital, Patan and Kathmandu are now separated only by a bridge over the Bagmati River. The city of Patan has recovered its label of origin “Lalitpur”. The historic heart of the city is entangled with narrow streets and theatrical decoration: brick houses with carved wooden balconies and bronze decorations, patios and backyards that house oratories, temples, etc. The city is famous throughout the country for its traditions of blacksmith and goldsmithing. Artisans model effigies of the divinities of the Hindu and Buddhist pantheons. Many stupas, chaytyas and bahals (ancient Buddhist monasteries) attest to the long history of Buddhism in the city that remains today a Bastion of Newars Buddhism in the Kathmandu Valley. The four stupas, erected in the four cardinal points, originally defined the city. They were erected during the reign of Emperor Ashoka some 250 years before our era.
Enhancement Activities:
- Session with Singing Bowl
Singing bowl therapy: Metal Singing bowls are used to deepen meditation and promote relaxation. They produce sustained sounds and vibrations when hit or circled with a mallet.
Sound therapy and guided meditations often make use of singing bowls. Bowls of varying sizes are placed around the room, around your body, or on your body. You can use them by yourself or with the help of a meditation or healing practitioner.
- Visit Thangka Painting School
Many local artists in Patan operate workshops where they create Thangkas for religious institutions, art collectors, and tourists. These workshops often offer guided tours and opportunities to learn about the process of creating Thangka paintings.
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi 4* or similar. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning, visit Boudhanath. Boudhanath which is possibly the world’s largest Buddhist stupa (temple) and a site of great veneration for Buddhists. Around the stupa a number of monasteries have sprung up number of the different sects of Tibetan Buddhism including one (on the west side of the stupa) that houses an enormous, seated statue of Maitreya Buddha splendidly adorned. The Stupa is located in the area of ancient trade route to Tibet where Tibetan merchants rested and offered prayers for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many decided to live around Hence, a complete township has developed around Boudhanath.
In the afternoon, visit Pashupatinath Temple. Pashupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu Shrines. This is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important religious sites among the four in the world. Pashupatinath Temple’s existence dates back to 400 A.D. The temple covers a huge area and the river Baghmati flows through the premises which is a very holy river. Cremations of the Hindus take place on the riverbank where there is a raised platform. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to pay homage to this temple that is also known as ‘The Temple of Living Beings presiding deity here is Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of the lingam. However, only Hindus are allowed inside.
Later, after sightseeing, drive back to hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi 4* or similar. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning, drive towards Bhaktapur.
Bhaktapur is located about 20 km east of Kathmandu and drive around 30 min. Bhaktapur is another Newar city founded in the 9th century. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the centre of Bhaktapur. The Square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the Valley as it highlights some of the finest medieval arts of Nepal. The main items of interest in Bhaktapur Durbar Square are the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate and the statues of kings on stone monoliths. The Golden Gate was erected by King Ranjit Malla as the entrance to the main courtyard of the Fifty-five Windowed Palace. The Palace of Fifty-five Windows was built during the reign of King Yakshya Malla in A.D. 1427 and was remodelled by King Bhupatindra Malla in the 17th Century. Bhaktapur Durbar (Royal) Square was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1979.
Enhancement Activities:
- Taste Juju Curd: Bhaktapur had been a city from where the local special curd was always supplied to the royal palace. In this way, the local curd got a name “Juju Dhau”, “Juju” means King, and “Dhau” means curd. We will taste this special curd from one of the local producers.
- Pottery Experience: One of the most practiced works in this medieval city is “Pottery”. We can see the local people making clay products using wooden sticks to turn wooden wheel, keeping clay on the wheel and giving the shape as they like. This is the technique they had been using to make clay pots since their ancestors. Anybody interested can make his/her dirty by trying to make similar one.
Later, visit Bamboo School. Bamboo School was established in 2002 and with about 1300 students in the first year. Now they have expanded with currently 51 schools in 51 districts of Nepal and still expanding. They have plan to expand their educational empire across Nepal’s 77 districts. Government of Nepal provides free schooling education system but the quality of education in this school is very low. So, to provide quality education for the low-income family the tuition fee is very affordable at just Rs 100 ($1) per month for all students.
Accommodation: Hotel Heritage 4* or similar. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning, drive to Changunarayan temple for visit followed by a small hike to Telkot. Changu Narayan Temple: The oldest temple in the valley is the Changu Narayan Temple, located 22 km from Kathmandu and a 25-minute drive from Bhaktapur city. The original temple was built in the 4th century during the time of the Lichhavi rulers and is perched on a hill overlooking Bhaktapur city. Much of it was rebuilt in the 18th century. This temple is known for its beauty, location and age. It is a Vishnu temple. One of the oldest Lichhavi period stone inscriptions is also found here. A Vishnu image with ten heads and ten arms is another fine example of stone carving from the 5th century.
After sightseeing at Changunarayan hike towards Telkot (approx. 1.5hrs).
The area of hiking is along the scenic ridge of greeneries between Changunarayan hill and Telkot. The path is superbly spectacular with the wonderful sight of the valley down to the Kathmandu, Sankhu and Bhaktapur. The walk follows the saddle of a ridge with great views of the valley on one side and the Himalayas on the other. The route passes through small villages and farmlands that are almost always bustling with activity as the farmers work their fields. Few Tamang villages lie between Changunarayan hill and Telkot.
Later, drive towards Panauti. Panauti is one of the oldest towns in Nepal consisting of many temples and monuments. It is a small state and has a population of about 15000 people. This old town is situated at the confluence of the two rivers Rosi and Punyamati. In addition to these two rivers, third river named Lilawati also converges by making tri junction called Triveni. This historical site consists of variety of Buddhists and Hindu religious monuments making it one of the most important medieval sites. Tourists will often find here colorful stones, petals and other items laid out on the pavement to welcome everyone with great hospitality.
The town has been listed as the UNESCO tentative site since 1996. Panauti is one of the oldest towns in Nepal. It was a small state given by the king Bhupatindra Malla as a dowry to his sister. This town was founded by Ananda Malla between 1274-1310 AD, however others believed that it was founded by King Harisingh Dev as the golden scripture dated 1385. The golden scripture is located within the Indreshwar temple. The town was once the busy trading hub during the era of kings and queens. It was a separate town until the unification of Nepal.
Upon arrival at Panauti, check in at Panauti Community homestay.
Activities at Panauti Homestay:
- Welcome ceremony with Tika & Garlands & Welcome drinks.
- Visit Panauti Village.
- Cooking class with local people.
- Wear Traditional attire/ Sari – A dress, worn especially by South Asian women, consisting of a very long piece of thin cloth wrapped around the body.
- Mehendi Ceremony – Practice of making designs on someone’s hands with henna (a reddish-brown dye), especially for someone’s wedding day in Nepali weddings.
Accommodation: Panauti Homestay or similar. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel. After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu Domestic Airport for a short flight to Bharatpur Airport in Chitwan. [25 mins Flight]
Upon arrival, meet by your Naturalist and drive towards your hotel in Chitwan.Chitwan National Park today stands as a successful testimony of nature conservation in South Asia. This is the first national park of Nepal established in 1973 to preserve a unique ecosystem significantly valuable to the whole world. The park covering a pristine area of 932 sq. km is situated in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of southern central part of Nepal. There are more than 43 species of mammals in the park. The park is especially renowned for the protection of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, tiger, gharial Crocodile along with many other common species of wild animals. The estimated population of endangered species of animals such as gaur, wild elephant, four horned antelopes, striped hyena, pangolin, Gangetic dolphin, monitor lizard and python, chital, hog deer, barking deer, sloth, palm civet, wild dog, langur, rhesus monkey, etc.
Lunch is served at the hotel. In the afternoon, Ox-Cart ride to local Tharu village.
Accommodation: Jagatpur Lodge 4*Star or similar. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning, experience the most exciting activity in Chitwan – Full Day Jeep Safari. Enjoy Jeep safari, an unusual program, beginning as a jeep safari with an experienced driver at the wheel and an expert naturalist leading you deep inside the forests on motorable tracks, exploring the mystery and magic of the jungle from the comfort of your seat. This exciting activity lasts from 3 hrs. Up to 4 hrs. in search of wild animals such as several types of deer (spotted deer, barking dear, hug dear), monkeys, wild boar, sloth bear, Hyena, leopard and, if lucky, the Royal Bengal tiger. Apart from the wild animals, we would visit deep inside the national park where the Naturist would brief you about the forest and its types, trees and its species, different species of birds etc.
Lunch is served inside the park. After safari drive back to hotel. Leisure at hotel.
In the evening BBQ dinner at hotel.
Accommodation: Jagatpur Lodge 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning Canoe ride at Rapti River. Start boating in a traditional patela boat for about 45 minutes which takes you on a silent trip down the Rapti River to view aquatic birds, crocodiles, Gharials and the animals of the riverbanks. After boating walk back to the resort.
After canoeing short, guided jungle walk & visit Crocodile Conservation Project visit. Guests will be taken to the Crocodile Conservation Project, an initiative to preserve and protect the endangered crocodiles of the park. Established in 1971, the Gharial (distinguished from other crocodiles by its narrow snout) conservation centre has been breeding this endangered species and releasing them to the wild every year. Our naturalist will accompany them, guiding them and providing information about various methods and programmes being undertaken to increase Gharial population in the wild.
Accommodation: Jagatpur Lodge 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Breakfast is at hotel.
After Breakfast, drive back to Bharatpur Airport in Chitwan for a short flight to Pokhara. [20 mins Flight]. Pokhara is a remarkable place of natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 900m from the sea level and 200km west of Kathmandu valley, the city is known as a centre of adventure. The enchanting town has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic views of Himalayan peaks. The serenity of lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic. Geology of Pokhara got built up almost 12 to 13 thousand years ago because of having huge floods from the bottom of Fishtail Mountain through Seti River as this river is a glacial river origin from the base of fishtail mountain.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
In the Afternoon an hour boat ride on Phewa / Fewa Lake.
- Phewa Lake: The center of attraction in Pokhara is the Phewa Lake – the second largest lake in the Kingdom. It is the largest and most enchanting of the three lakes that add to the resplendence of Pokhara. Here, one can sail or row a hired boat across to the water or visit the island temple in the middle.
In the afternoon, visit Gandharva tribal community: The Gandharva is a tribal community of musicians and singers who live in the Pokhara region of Nepal. They are also known as Gayak and Gaine, which both mean “singing”. The Gandharva is part of the Indo-Aryan ethnic group. They are traditionally traveling musicians who sing folk songs and improvise new songs. They play the Nepali sarangi, a type of violin, as their main instrument. They are Hindus by religion. They are sometimes called “caste of professional musicians” and “itinerant bards”. Gandharva’s traditional singing occupation is dying out. Many young people work as taxi drivers, and some have food shops which improved them financially and socially. They are regarded as untouchable and treated as marginalized in Nepali mainstream society.
In the evening, take a leisure stroll along the scenic lake, stop at one of the many lakeside cafes, and enjoy the splendid scenery in sight, you may feel the time seems to stand still here.
Accommodation: Atithi Resort & Spa 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (during wedding)
Breakfast is at hotel.
Early in the morning, drive to Sarangkot to see the sunrise and magnificent views of Annapurna. At an altitude of 1592 meters, this mountain is located north of Pokhara overlooking the valley and Fewa Lake. Sarangkot is a beautiful town known for its sunrise, where on a mirrored day you can see an unobstructed view of the Himalayan Mountains in the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail range. The view of the Annapurna Himalayas from Sarangkot is almost a religious experience. From here you can see a panoramic sweep of the Himalayan peaks, from Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) in the west to the perfect pyramid of Machhapuchhare (6,997 m), the peak of Annapurna II (7,937 m) to Lamjung (6,983 m) in the East. Most people come here at sunrise or sunset, when the sun picks up the peaks, turning them from a purple pink to a heavenly gold.
Drive back to hotel for breakfast and free for couple of hours to rest. Later, visit major places of Pokhara city.
- Shiva Temple: Shiva Statue is one of the major attractions of Pokhara Valley. It is the tallest statue of Lord Shiva in Pokhara. This statue was built in Mathura of India and then brought here in Nepal and installed. It is located in the southern part of Pokhara at an elevation of 1500 meters from sea level. Another attraction of this statue is Shiva Damaru which is the biggest in Asia.
- World Peace Stupa in Pokhara, also called Shanti Stupa, is a stunning monument located on the Anadu Hill overlooking the mesmerizing Phewa Lake with the charming Annapurna Mountain range in the backdrop. It is a popular tourist attraction and a striking landmark, or a pleasant pit stop for the intrepid climbers. The surroundings have several trekking trails to cross Phewa Lake and explore the Himalayas. The picturesque beauty is quite captivating, and the tranquil vibe of the monument is worth a visit for those seeking it.
Accommodation: Atithi Resort & Spa 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Free day at Pokhara. Leisure/ Shopping, or Optional Activity:
- Hot Air Ballon
- Helicopter Flight to Annapurna Base Camp.
Accommodation: Atithi Resort & Spa 4* Star Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Later, drive towards Pokhara Airport for a short flight to Kathmandu. [25 mins Flight]. Upon arrival at Kathmandu drive towards hotel.
Mha Puja, the worship of the inner self, is unique to people from Newari community. Newar believe that one needs to understand and respect oneself before he/she can understand others. Mha puja is a process of purification, strengthening and understanding of oneself. This celebration carries all the grandeur that a typical Nawa festival or ritual possesses. It is also distinct from other Hindu or Buddhist worships; in that it is the worship of oneself and not the usual worship of Gods and Goddesses or others. Mha puja exposes the relationship of a person with the surrounding nature and the cosmos. Understanding one’s role in life makes him/her more knowledgeable and unselfish. Worshipping and blessing oneself to achieve unselfishness and generosity is unique by itself. Mha puja is also for prosperity and physical wellbeing. No other Newar festival is solely devoted to enriching oneself both physically and spiritually. The religious and spiritual aspects of Mha puja fall perfectly in line with the socio- religious nature of Newar festivals. Incidentally, Mha puja is performed and celebrated on the Newari New Year’s Day, giving it additional social flavor.
Mha Puja is celebrated with as much vigor as any other important festival. According to Hindu religion, soul or the inner self never dies. Only the body which the soul uses as a vehicle dies. The soul gets to be born in a bodily form (human, animal, plant, etc.) according to its performance in past incarnations. Human life is considered the superior being at the top of the life cycle. It is interesting to note that Mha puja perfectly fits into this popular Hindu mythology and yet it is unique to Newa culture. The worship of the divinity in oneself takes place in a sophisticated, interesting and exhilarating atmosphere. The elaborateness with which Mha puja is performed exemplifies the Newa tradition of well-organized and devoted rituals on a grand scale.
Later, in the evening Cultural Program followed by dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Barahi 4* Star. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Bhutan.
Welcome to Bhutan!
Paro is situated in a beautiful valley at 2280 metres and is a fitting introduction to this charming kingdom. Your guide will meet you and take you on a short one-hour drive along the Paro and Thimphu River valleys to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, at 2320 metres. Sightseeing today depends on flight timing
You can stop on the way to take in the magnificent Tamchhog Lhakhang, the hereditary place of worship for Bhutan’s iron bridge builder. Take a late afternoon walk around town and soak in the atmosphere of this magical capital with its busy shops and bazaars and photogenic citizens in national dress.
Welcome dinner at Babesa Village Restaurant.
Accommodation: Norkhil Boutique Hotel 4* Star. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
In the morning visit the huge statue of Buddha Dordenma, which commands a tremendous view of Thimphu valley. The impressive 3-storey throne holds several chapels and the body itself is filled with 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha. Then drive about 25 minutes to Sangaygang (Radio Tower) where you will walk for about 1 hour to Druk Wangditse temple which overlooks the whole Thimphu valley. Druk Wangditse Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Thimphu and considered an important heritage site of Bhutan.
Hike distance: (4.5 km, 2.5 hours)
Starting elevation – 2680 metres
Highest elevation – 2635 metres
Ending elevation – 2680 metres
After visiting the temple walk back to Sangaygang (Radio Tower) and then visit the Takin Reserve showcasing the unique national animal, the Takin. In the afternoon you can visit the farmers market where farmers display their vegetables and other products. Nearby you can also visit Zangto Pelri Lhakhang – the modern chapel was built in the 1990s as a representation of Guru Rinpoche’s celestial abode by Dasho Aku Tongmi, the musician who composed Bhutan’s national anthem.
You may be interested to visit the National Library, and you may like to browse the striking collection of intricate textiles at the National Textile Museum. Late afternoon, if you would like to view or buy Bhutanese handicrafts, you can walk through the Craft Bazaar which has an array of stalls run by local handicraft shops selling purely home-made articles with no imports. Tell your guide what takes your interest.
Accommodation: Norkhil Boutique Hotel 4* Star or similar. Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast is at hotel.
Thimphu to Punakha. In the morning drive approximately 3 hours to the old capital, Punakha, via Dochu La pass at 3050 metres, where we will stop for a hot drink and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Eastern Himalaya ranges. You will notice the change of climate and vegetation as we approach low-lying Punakha at 1250 metres. Then you can visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) built in the 15th century by the ‘Divine Madman’ (Lama Drukpa Kuenley) and set amongst terraced fields in the village of Sopsokha. You may also like to visit Kaja Throm. This is the market where farmers display their vegetables (although much smaller than the one you can see in Thimphu). Afterwards visit the imposing Punakha Dzong, “Palace of Great Happiness”. Built in 1637, it is strategically placed at the confluence of two rivers, the Po Chu and the Mo Chu.
Accommodation: Dhensa Hotel 3* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Pho Chu hike (male river hike). In the morning, we drive about 10 minutes to the cremation ground just behind Punakha Dzong where you will set off along the trail. You will walk for a few minutes till you reach one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan where you can walk across and take some photos. From the bridge you will take a left turn and climb up for about 15 minutes and from there you have a gentle walk for about 2 hours along the Pho Chu River through Chir Pine forest enjoying the sounds of the river below to Samdingkha where you will be picked up by your car.
Hike distance: (7 km, 2.5 hours)
Starting elevation – 1250 metres
Highest elevation – 1370 metres
Ending elevation – 1270 metres
In the afternoon drive approximately 4.5 hours to Trongsa, the gateway to central Bhutan at 2180 metres. Set amidst spectacular scenery, Trongsa Dzong, the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family, commands the eye from miles away. You can also visit Ta Dzong, the museum in the watchtower dedicated to the Wangchuk dynasty, which tells the stories of the Dzong and the valley it has watched over for centuries and features personal belongings of the Kings and Queens of Bhutan. Continue a further 2.5 hours through some of Bhutan’s most beautiful landscapes to Bumthang, an area of high valleys at 2580 to 3100 metres.
Accommodation: Willing Hotel 3* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Early in the morning you will drive about 2 hours to Chumey Domkhar where you will visit the Domkhar festival in a small village of Domkhar. Domkhar Lhakhang was built by Serkhong Tulku during the 18th century, and it is said that the Lhakhang is the residing place for the Tulku. Domkhar Tshechu takes place over 3 days and includes chams and dances which are performed by the local people of Domkhar village. The chams include mainly the Peling Chams (composition of Terton Pema Lingpa). On the last day of the festival, the Lhakhang displays large thongdrols to bless the people of Domkhar village.
Late afternoon drive about 30 minutes to Jakar where you can visit a local farmhouse for dinner allowing you an experience of traditional Bhutanese village life. If you would like to, you can help with cooking the evening meal. Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, with its many legendary monasteries, temples and palaces. Bumthang is the collective name for an area of 4 valleys – Chokhor, Tang, Ura and Chumey. Late afternoon you may like to visit Jamba Lhakhang and then you can walk along the farm roads through some villages to visit Kurjey Lhakhang.
Accommodation: Rinchenling Resort 3* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Today we take a day excursion to Tang valley, the most remote of Bumthang’s valleys, at 2700 meters. First, we drive about 30 minutes to Membar Tsho (the “burning lake”), which is one of Bhutan’s most important pilgrimage sites. After visiting Membar Tsho, continue your drive for about one hour to Tang Ogyen Choling, where you can visit the palace which is now a museum and gives an interesting insight into life in an aristocratic family in the last century. You can have a packed picnic lunch or take lunch at Ogyen Choling Palace.
Start your journey back to Bumthang. On the way back you will see some picturesque villages and temples and can visit Ta Rimochen Lhakhang – this Nyingma monastery’s name is associated with the stripes of a tiger that are visible on the rock behind the temple. Legend holds that Guru Padmasambhava and his consorts meditated on this rock, leaving their footprints. Founded in the 14th century by Tertoen Pema Lingpa, its establishment was foretold by Longchen Rabjam. The temple was later restored by a descendant of Dorji Lingpa. The exterior features two large rocks representing male and female Garudas, and a throne seat of Guru Padmasambhava. There are also door-like markings on the rock’s face, believed to hold the keys to sacred hidden treasures.
Accommodation: Renchenling Resort 3* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Today you will attend Ura Festival. Drive to Ura village, quite a large village situated at 3100m and dominated by its temple. Ura is in the highest of Bumthang’s valleys and is believed to be the home of the earliest inhabitants in Bhutan. The village has about 40 houses closely set along cobbled streets, giving it a medieval atmosphere. You will see locals dressed in their finest clothes who have walked from miles around to attend the festivities. They come to watch masked dances, to pray, and to feast. Arrays of colourful brocades whirl through the air as the dancer’s spin and dance the “thunderbolt step”. Masks of glorious demonic demons and animals arouse your senses as you watch the purification take place. Watch for the Atsara (clown). This dancer, unique in his own style, mimics dancers and entertains onlookers. Festival deities are invoked through benediction and luck is increased and misfortune dissipated. While the underlying purpose of the festival is spiritual, dances are more often like plays, telling stories were good triumphs over evil, or depicting significant historical events, especially surrounding the life of Bhutan’s patron saint, Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche).
Accommodation: Renchenling Resort 3* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Bumthang to Lhuntse. Today we will be driving approximately 6 hours through stunning scenery towards Lhuntse, including a crossing of the Thrumshing La pass (3750m). We also drive through deep forest. You will notice the change in vegetation as we enter warmer climes and will see lots of birds along the way, as this is a renowned area for bird watching. Initially you will be taking the route to Mongar but before you reach there you will turn north and drive about forty minutes further to a simple guesthouse some way outside the town. You are now in the isolated district of Lhuntse (the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal family).
Accommodation: Phayul Guesthouse 2* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Lhuntse is famous for its weaving traditions. In the morning drive about 1.5 hours to Khoma, a renowned weaving village. You can visit some houses in the village and investigate the different patterns and styles adopted by each weaver. In this place, unusually, the men will do the household tasks such as cooking and cleaning for their wives. Although traditionally this is all women’s work, things are done differently here so that the family can benefit from the income which can be made from the weaving activity. In the early days the women used to weave only for themselves and their families, but now they will take their products to Thimphu to sell, and they can get high prices as one piece of cloth can take up to 3 months to finish because of the intricate pattern’s peculiar to the area. After visiting Khoma drive to Gangzur, once a popular village known for pottery making. There are only a few people who can make pottery, and we may not be able to see it, however it is not very far from Khoma and it is worth visiting the village.
After Gangzur drive back along the route you came on for about 30 minutes and then turn right to Tangmachu to see the huge Guru statue sitting high on a ridge at Takila. Inside there is a 3-storied temple and from the ridge there is a beautiful view of mountains and valleys. Then return to Autsho for the night.
Accommodation: Phayl Guesthouse 2* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Lhuntse (Autsho) to Tashi Yangtse. Tashi Yangtse is about 6 hours’ drive and borders the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. First, we will be driving about 2 hours to Mongar district, which forms the northern part of the ancient region of Kheng. You can spend some time exploring the small town of Mongar before continuing your drive to Tashi Yangtse On the way you can also stop to visit the sacred temple of Gom Kora about 45 minutes north of Tashigang. Guru Rinpoche meditated here and left his body print on the rock. The temple itself contains murals, said to date from the 15th Century, and a variety of sacred relics can be seen here, as well as a passageway enabling you to test your sin level!
Accommodation: Karmaling Hotel 2* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
The small town of Tashi Yangtse is concentrated around the large Chorten Kora, modelled after the Bodnath Stupa of Kathmandu in Nepal and much revered and visited by pilgrims. The town is also famous for its wooden cups and bowls made using water-driven and treadle lathes; it is also a centre for paper manufacture. Few Western Bhutanese have visited Tashi Yangtse as it is so far east and certainly few Western tourists make it this far either!
Here you can walk around the small town and visit Chorten Kora as well as exploring the village of Bechen where we may also be able to see a demonstration of traditional wood turning skills by local artisans who make traditional wooden bowls and cups. Many Trashi Yangtse people receive most of their income from selling such products, since traditionally Bhutanese would eat everything in wooden bowls and drink from wooden cups. Late afternoon drive to Tashigang located at 1070m and two hours’ drive south of Yangtse. Once an important centre of trade with Tibet, Tashigang is in the heart of eastern Bhutan. It is one of the largest towns in the region and the second largest district in Bhutan. Tashigang Dzong, built in 1667 by Mingyur Tebpa, is on a high promontory overlooking the confluence of two rivers and it was the seat of control for the whole of eastern Bhutan from the late 17th until the beginning of the 20th century. Tashigang is also the main market for all the six districts in eastern Bhutan; people from Merak and Sakteng, a remote Eastern region strolls through the town with their unique yak-hair hats and distinctive costumes.
Accommodation: Lingkhar Lodge 2* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Today we will do some sightseeing around Tashigang valley. In the morning, we drive to Bartsham. As we leave Tashigang and make our way to the turning at Reju we will get a glimpse of the majestic Tashigang Dzong on the hilltop overlooking Drangmechu. You may like to stop and get a shot of the beautiful fortress. From Reju we will drive approximately 1.5 hours to Bartsham Chador Lhakhang (depending on road conditions as this road is not yet tarmacked). On the way you will see Bhutanese huts, pine trees and shepherds. Take a walk around Bartsham village with its eye-catching traditional houses and local shops before visiting Bartsham Chador Lhakhang. After a packed picnic lunch, we will drive back along the same road to Reju, where you will turn left for a few minutes to visit Rangjung and explore the surrounding area, including the Rangjung Woesel Choling Monastery.
Accommodation: Lingkhar Lodge 2* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast is at hotel.
Early morning we will drive about one hour to Yonphu La airport to take a domestic flight to Paro. (flight schedule to be confirmed). Before you check in to your hotel you may like to visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, a temple of historical significance and one of the most sacred shrines in Bhutan.
In the afternoon visit the National Museum located in the Ta Dzong (watch tower) which was built on top of the hill above Rinpung Dzong to defend Rinpung Dzong and the Paro valley during times of war, in an unusual circular construction resembling a conch shell. The Ta Dzong houses a magnificent collection of Bhutanese artefacts – costumes, religious paintings, arms, textiles and a fascinating collection of Bhutan stamps. From the National Museum, take a leisurely 1-hour hike along the forested hillside to Zuri Dzong. The walk passes Gonsaka Lhakhang and then Zuri Dzong and provides wonderful views down over the valley and of Paro Dzong. Zuri Dzong dates from 1352 and is home to the valley’s local protector gods. Continue your walk down to the Uma Resort junction where you turn right towards Paro Dzong and here again you should have a good view of Paro Dzong and town. Your driver will be waiting at the Paro bridge to pick you up.
Hike distance: (2 km, 1.5 hours)
Starting elevation – 2450 metres
Highest elevation – 2540 metres
Ending elevation – 2200 metres
Accommodation: Ambo Paro Hotel 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast is at hotel.
Early in the morning, take a walk to the ‘Tiger’s Nest,’ the sacred Taktshang Monastery, which clings to the rock face 900 meters above the valley floor. First, we drive for about 20 to 45 minutes (depending on where you are staying) to the car park, where your hike to Tiger’s Nest begins. From the car park to the cafeteria, the walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The cafeteria offers a spectacular view of the monastery, and you can enjoy a cup of tea if you wish.
From here, you will have the option to continue up to the monastery, which will take another 1.5 to 2 hours. Tiger’s Nest is one of the most sacred places for Bhutanese people and is a highlight for many visitors. Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown to the site riding on a tigress, and he subsequently meditated there for three months. It is one of Bhutan’s most holy sites, attracting pilgrims not only from Bhutan but also from neighbouring Buddhist countries.
After visiting the monastery, descend to the car park (which will take about 2 to 3 hours) and then we will drive to town for a late lunch. If your walk takes longer, you can have lunch at the cafeteria on your way down. You may like to take a stroll around Paro town and visit some handicraft shops for souvenirs of your trip.
Hike distance: (6.5 km, 5 to 6 hours)
Starting elevation – 2610 metres
Highest elevation – 3145 metres
Ending elevation – 2610 metres
(farewell dinner at Neyphug Heritage)
Accommodation: Ambo Paro Hotel 4* Star or similar Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to Paro Airport for your early flight to Kathmandu.
A free day at leisure before your flight home this evening.
Farewell Bhutan!
What’s Included?
- Economy Class flights with Malaysia Airlines
- 12 night’s accommodation in Nepal
- 14 night’s accommodation in Bhutan
- Meals as per the itinerary
- All transfers throughout
- All road transportation throughout
- An English-speaking local guide in each country
- All tours as mentioned in the itinerary
- Kathmandu – Chitwan domestic flight in Nepal
- Chitwan – Pokhara domestic flight in Nepal
- Pokhara – Kathmandu domestic flight in Nepal
- Kathmandu – Paro – Kathmandu flights
- Yonphula – Paro domestic flight in Bhutan
- Bhutan visa fee
Gallery
Availability
| Start Date | End Date | Duration | Availability | Price |
|---|
Start Date
April 11, 2026
End Date
May 7, 2026
Duration
27 days
Availability
Available
Price
13,829 AUD
Why Choose Mike Drew Travel?
Hand-crafted journeys & immersive experiences
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
We’ve walked the walk
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
Your safety first
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.