Nepal and Bhutan Tour

Peregrine Treks and Tours representatives will greet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel. You will meet your tour leader at the hotel later that afternoon/evening for a briefing and discussion about the Nepal and Bhutan Tour. The briefing contains trip details, itinerary description, and schedule. If there are any last-minute changes, discuss these with the leader to make rearrangements.

Later in the evening, you are free to stroll around the streets of Kathmandu on foot. Kathmandu is a fascinating city supporting both ancient and modern architecture.

Kathmandu is home primarily to the Newari people, whose rich history and original traditions can be seen in the local arts, architecture, and culture; furthermore, the cuisine is unique and well worth sampling. (consult your group leader for local restaurant recommendations). Take the opportunity to visit traditional bazaars like Ason and Indrachowk.

Accommodation: The Everest Hotel Kathmandu or a similar hotel
Meals: Not Included

On the second day, you will take a mountain flight and fly over the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest. The flight’s weather can be unpredictable depending on the time of year. However, we have records of probable weather and will advise accordingly.

You will also get a panoramic view of Sagarmatha National Park during this flight. It is the first national park of Nepal to be listed in the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.

Leaving the mighty giant peak behind, we will return to Kathmandu and continue our tour exploring a few World Heritage Sites. Our next attraction is Boudhanath Stupa, located at the heart of the Tibetan trade to Kathmandu. The structure of Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest and unique in the world.

We will also visit the most significant Hindu Temple – Pashupatinath. Dating back to the 5^th century, its complex temples and ashrams are situated on the banks of the divine river Bagmati. Walking around the temple, you may encounter Hindu funerals along the banks (ghat)with several cremations. (should you find this traditional sacred ceremony uncomfortable to see, let your guide know)

We will walk around One of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, Kathmandu Durbar Square. We are surrounded by astounding architecture dating back to the Lichhavi Period in the third century.

Moreover, these three complexes were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the same year, 1979 AD.

Accommodation: The Everest Hotel Kathmandu or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Today, we will take an early morning flight to Pokhara, famously known as the city of lakes. There are seven lakes in the Pokhara region, among which Phewa Lake is the second largest in Nepal. Our accommodation will be in one of the best hotels near Phewa Lake.

During the day, we will visit the World Peace Pagoda, which is about a 20-minute ride by bus or taxi. Nepal has two of eight Peace Pagodas, one in Lumbini and another in Pokhara. You will see the magnificent Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (fishtail peak), and other surrounding snowcapped peaks. After exploring and gaining peace from visiting the peace pagoda, we will continue to our next attraction.

Many people know Nepal as a mountainous country. Visiting the International Mountain Museum will teach you about the mountains’ history and culture.  Your day will end with memories of the mountains, their fascinating past, and alluring tales of mountain communities and famous climbers.

Accommodation: Hotel Water Front or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Today you can explore the streets and see where it takes you to enjoy shops and local cafes. Or you can call your leader for more sightseeing tours. As mentioned earlier, there are seven lakes in Pokhara. You can take a bike, ride to the nearest lake, take a boat trip on the lake, or take a yoga/meditation class to enjoy a massage, paraglide, or bungee jump. The list is endless.

Accommodation: Hotel Water Front or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Today we will depart for Chitwan National Park, the first national park of Nepal. We will drive for approximately four hours (depending on traffic) to arrive in the afternoon. Here you will check in on one of the ethnic and eco-lodge in Sauraha.

Here, the lodge manager will welcome the group, and later on, he will introduce you to your nature guide. A nature guide is required for any activity done in the national park. The guide will brief you on the list of activities and their schedule.

We suggest you rest in your lodge for a little while in the afternoon to recover from the road trip. Afterwards, you can walk towards the riverside and enjoy the sunset with a chilled beer.

Tharu people are the former inhabitants of Chitwan National Park. These people have their own culture, traditions, and customs. Every evening a group of Tharu people will present their cultural dance for an hour.

You can consult your leader and organize to see a cultural program in a nearby theatre. After the show, you can return to the hotel or any bar and enjoy a drink with your friends.

Accommodation: Hotel Parkland or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Peregrine Tour and Trek is a travel agency that respects animals. We do not support any activities like elephant safari or elephant bathing. Instead, we offer other activities like Jeep Safari, Canoe Ride, Elephant Walk, and a lovely day with an elephant.

In the morning, you can book the Elephant Walk, where you will follow an Asian captive elephant on foot. In this activity, you can get close to the elephant and learn about her natural behaviour without causing harm. After that, get ready for the jeep safari.

Chitwan National Park holds the second-biggest population of endangered Rhinoceros unicorns. Around 120 tigers (Bengal tiger) inhibit in Chitwan National Park, but a sighting is rare.

Apart from these magnificent creatures, you can see various deer, birds, and other wildlife. After finishing the jeep safari, you can join us for a canoe ride in the late afternoon and enjoy the quiet of the Rapti River.

During your canoe ride, you can have a chance to see Gharial and Marsh Muggers. These are the only two crocodile species in Nepal where Gharials are considered endangered. After these activities, you can rest, relax in the evening, and have dinner in the Tharu Kitchen.

Accommodation: Hotel Parkland or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We have another option if you like mingling with nature for the last time on this trip. You can join an early morning bird-watching program for a couple of hours. After that, we depart from Chitwan and fly to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we will end our Nepal trip and prepare for our destination, the country of Bhutan.

Accommodation: The Everest Hotel Kathmandu or a similar hotel
Meals: Breakfast

We will take a short flight from Tribhuvan International Airport to Bhutan and land at Paro Airport. (If possible, request your seat on the plane’s left side to enjoy scenic views of the mountains).

Upon arrival in Paro, we must go through the immigration office and complete a few custom formalities. Later, a licensed Bhutanese guide will receive you and take you to Thimpu’s capital. Driving for two hours, you will see varieties of Bhutanese features, from mountains, rivers, and agricultural fields to red rice plantations.

Reaching the hotel, you will have delicious local lunch and visit nearby attractions. The guide will visit the two most popular and traditional factories. One is Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory, and another is Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre. You can then wander around the streets of Thimpu and explore the magical city at your leisure.

After returning to the hotel, we will have dinner in the evening, followed by a small group session to discuss the Bhutan trip.

Some Important Facts:

• The Bhutanese Government has strict regulations in the tourism sector. They give provision to quality tourism rather than quantity.
• Peregrine Treks and Tours is a valued travel agency for Bhutan tours, and we only provide a group visa.
• The travellers are compelled to arrive and depart on the fixed dates arranged by the tour agency.
• There might be a rare and unfortunate case of not getting a flight that causes early arrival or late departure.
• In such cases, our agency can only book other accommodations associated with a particular individual visa.
• Doing so could add an extra sum for your tour, around 600 USD, which you must pay for on booking.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Amodhara or similar

During your stay in Thimpu, the capital city of Bhutan, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant streets and immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights is a leisurely walk through the enchanting Tibetan Village, where you can witness the daily life of the locals, pass by lush agricultural fields, and venture into the natural blue pine forests, experiencing the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Embarking on a picturesque hike along the riverside trails, you will have the chance to visit Pangri Zampa Gompa, a monastery that serves as the national centre for traditional astrology. Along the way, you will also pass by Tango and Cheri Gompa, adding to the spiritual and serene ambience of the journey. A delightful picnic lunch awaits you on the bank of the river, providing a moment of relaxation and nourishment amidst nature’s tranquillity.

In the afternoon, your sightseeing adventure in Thimpu continues as you visit some notable landmarks. The National Memorial Stupa, towering proudly as one of the tallest monuments in Thimpu, was constructed in honour of the esteemed third king, Jigme Dorje Wangchuk. Its grandeur and serene atmosphere make it a vital reverence and remembrance site.

Another fascinating stop is the Zhilukha Nunnery, also known as Drubthob Gomba, which houses around 60 nuns and is the largest nunnery in Bhutan. Here, you can witness the dedication and spirituality of the nuns as they go about their daily rituals and prayers.

Visiting the Choki Traditional Art School is necessary for those interested in Bhutanese art and craftsmanship. This renowned institution promotes and preserves traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts, allowing you to witness the skilful artisans at work and perhaps even try to create your masterpiece.

Visiting the National Textile Museum is highly recommended to delve further into Bhutan’s rich textile heritage. Here, you can admire the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Bhutanese textiles and learn about their historical significance and cultural importance.

Lastly, indulge in some shopping at the National Handicrafts Emporium, renowned for its high-quality handmade traditional products. From intricately woven fabrics to exquisite handicrafts, this emporium offers a wide range of authentic Bhutanese treasures that make perfect souvenirs or cherished keepsakes.

Throughout your exploration of Thimpu, you will be captivated by the city’s cultural richness, artistic heritage, and the warm hospitality of its people. This unforgettable journey will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Bhutan’s unique traditions and customs.

After sightseeing in Thimphu, we will drive to Punakha. Punakha is one of the districts lying at an altitude of 1,242m lower than Thimpu. Due to the lower elevation, the temperature is relatively warmer and is also considered Bhutan’s ancient winter capital.

The distance between Punakha and Thimpu is around 72 km, taking approximately four hours by bus. During the journey to Punakha, we will pause at Dochu-La pass to appreciate the beauty of Gangkar Punsum. Gangkar Punsum is the highest peak, with an altitude of 24,770 ft/7,550, and is unclimbed.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: White Dragon Hotel or a similar 3-star hotel

Today we will visit the second largest and oldest dzong in Punakha Dzong. It is located at the junction of Bhutan’s main rivers: the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers. Punakha Dzong carries the relics of Tibetan Buddhism, Bhutanese architecture, and the sacred remains of Ngawang Namgyal. He was the unifier of Bhutan as a nation-state.

After lunch, we will hike from the Mo Chu River base for an hour to visit the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. It is situated at an altitude of 1800 meters, and the trail is mostly uphill on a loose earth mud path. Despite the trail as you reach the Chorten, the small hike is worth it. You will encounter awe-inspiring 360 views of Punakha Valley, seeing the paddy fields and the Mo Chu River.

After sightseeing in Pukakha, we will drive to  Paro via the Dochu-La pass. Along the trail, you will encounter 108 memorials of Chortens (Druk Wangyal Chortens). Each Chortens honours the Bhutanese soldiers who defended Bhutan in 2003’s war against Assam, India.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mandala Resort or a similar 3-star hotel

Soon after breakfast, we will drive from our hotel to the nearest starting point of the trail. We will take a challenging four-kilometre 2-3-hour hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). It is located on a cliff 3000 ft straight above Paro Valley. (it is possible to hire a pony to take you some ways).

You might feel it is impossible to complete during the climb, but the pain dissolves with the mesmerizing scenes of the monastery perched on a rocky cliff and the surrounding valleys. The religious construction and historical and peculiar features make the monastery an iconic special place. Exploring the monastery and experiencing its tranquil aura will captivate you like no other place, leaving a lasting impression. After capturing some beautiful pictures, we climbed and spent our last night in Paro Valley.

Essential Tips for Travelers:

• The trekking trail is a bit challenging. Hence, wear proper and comfortable hiking boots.
• Carry the required amount of water and proper energy-giving snacks.
• Use trekking poles, which will make your walk less painful.
• Wear proper layers and sunglasses.
• There is no wheelchair ramp.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Mandala Resort or a similar 3-star hotel

On the last day of the Nepal and Bhutan Tour, you will have a delicious breakfast before travelling to Paro Airport. Leaving Bhutan behind and taking the memories, we depart and fly back to your destination.

Meals: Breakfast