
Nepal and Bhutan – 15 Days
Explore the timeless beauty of Nepal and Bhutan, from jungle safaris and Himalayan sunrises to sacred monasteries. A soulful journey through two ancient lands.
Nepal and Bhutan
15 Days
Moderate
Dochula Pass (3,050 m, 10,004 ft)
Feb-June & Sep-Dec
Hotel & Resort
Included
Kathmandu to Paro
Trip Highlights
- Wander through the medieval streets and grand temples of Kathmandu
- Catch breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas from Sarangkot
- Dive into the charm and culture of Pokhara’s lakefront and ancient sites
- Experience a jungle safari and canoe ride in Chitwan National Park
- Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the cliffs of Paro
- Explore the ancient ruins of Drugyel Dzong and learn Bhutan’s warrior past
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Step into the heart of Kathmandu, a city layered with temples, shrines, and old-world mystique. The scent of incense in the air, sacred chants, and vibrant street life invite you into a space where ancient traditions still breathe. Meander through the palaces and alleys of Patan and Bhaktapur, and take in the spiritual pulse of Pashupatinath and Swayambhunath.
The journey continues west to Pokhara, nestled beneath the peaks of Machapuchare and Annapurna. Here, the mornings begin with golden light over the mountains, and your days fill with cave temples, serene lakes, and the sound of prayer wheels. Further south lies the jungle of Chitwan, where elephants roam and crocodiles slip through the waters. A safari here offers a raw and earthy pause in the rhythm of the tour.
Finally, fly across the Himalayas to Bhutan, a kingdom unlike any other. From the fortress-like dzongs of Thimphu and Punakha to peaceful valleys and pine forests, Bhutan weaves you into its quiet charm. Climbing to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a journey in itself — one that leaves you breathless in more ways than one. This trip blends the spiritual richness of Nepal with the hidden beauty of Bhutan, creating a slow and unforgettable journey.
Outline Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
- Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
- Day 3: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
- Day 4: Drive to Pokhara (900 m / 2,953 ft)
- Day 5: Pokhara Sightseeing
- Day 6: Additional Pokhara Tour (900 m / 2,953 ft)
- Day 7: Sarangkot Sunrise and Drive to Chitwan National Park Chitwan (285 m / 935 ft):
- Day 8: Wildlife Activities in Chitwan National Park
- Day 9: Morning Activities and Drive to Kathmandu (1,345 m / 4,409 ft): 7 hrs
- Day 10: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro and Drive to Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft): 1 hr flight & 1.5 hr drive
- Day 11: Sightseeing in Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft): Full day
- Day 12: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (1,200 m / 3,937 ft): 3 hrs
- Day 13: Drive to Paro with Sightseeing Along the Way (2,280 m / 7,480 ft): 2 hrs
- Day 14: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) (3,120 m / 10,236 ft): 4-5 hrs
- Day 15: Departure from Paro International Airport
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by an airport representative and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle. Spend the evening at your leisure.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 2: Swayambhunath tour and trip preparation
After breakfast, meet your tour leader for a pre-trip briefing and city introduction. head towards Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, this ancient stupa is one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal. Believed to have been self-created, it holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley, surrounded by prayer flags, shrines, and playful monkeys that give the site its nickname.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 3: Sightseeing in Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Continue exploring Kathmandu Valley’s treasures with visits to Patan Durbar Square and other cultural landmarks. Enjoy guided tours highlighting the art, architecture, and religious heritage of the region. Use the evening for relaxation or personal exploration.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,400 m / 4,593 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 4: Drive to Pokhara (900 m / 2,953 ft)
Begin your scenic drive to Pokhara in a private vehicle. Enjoy views of the countryside as you travel to this beautiful lakeside town set beneath the Annapurna range. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and prepare for the days ahead.
Max Altitude
: Pokhara (900 m / 2,953 ft)
Trip Duration
: 7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Pokhara
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 5: Pokhara Sightseeing
Explore Pokhara’s highlights including Bindhyabasini Temple and the stunning Begnas and Rupa Lakes. Visit the dramatic Devi’s Fall and the mysterious Gupteswar Cave. Tour local museums and the tranquil Phewa Lake with Barahi Temple on its island.
Max Altitude
: Pokhara (900 m / 2,953 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Pokhara
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 6: Additional Pokhara Tour (900 m / 2,953 ft)
Continue your discovery of Pokhara with visits to Mahendra Cave and Seti River Gorges. Learn about Tibetan culture at the Tashi Ling refugee camp and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the region.
Max Altitude
: Pokhara (900 m / 2,953 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Pokhara
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 7: Sarangkot Sunrise and Drive to Chitwan National Park Chitwan (285 m / 935 ft):
Rise early for a short hike to Sarangkot to watch a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas and Pokhara Valley. After breakfast, drive to Chitwan National Park. Upon arrival, receive a briefing from the guest relations officer and enjoy an afternoon village tour.
Max Altitude
: Chitwan (285 m / 935 ft)
Trip Duration
: 6-7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Resort
Day 8: Wildlife Activities in Chitwan National Park
Start early with bird watching, jeep safari, and jungle walks to experience the park’s abundant wildlife. After lunch, explore by boat along the Narayani River to observe crocodiles. Enjoy an afternoon jeep safari and nature walk before dinner.
Max Altitude
: Chitwan (285 m)
Trip Duration
: Full day
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Resort
Day 9: Morning Activities and Drive to Kathmandu (1,345 m / 4,409 ft): 7 hrs
Begin with early bird watching, followed by breakfast. Then drive back to Kathmandu. Evening free for rest or optional activities.
Max Altitude
: Kathmandu (1,345 m / 4,409 ft)
Trip Duration
: 7 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast
Overnight
: Kathmandu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 10: Fly from Kathmandu to Paro and Drive to Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft): 1 hr flight & 1.5 hr drive
Take an early morning flight from Kathmandu to Paro, soaring over the Himalayan peaks for a stunning aerial view. Upon arrival, meet your Bhutanese guide and drive about 90 minutes to Thimphu, the peaceful capital nestled in a pine-filled valley. Settle into your hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the nearby local market and town center, absorbing the gentle pace of Bhutanese life.
Max Altitude
: Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft)
Trip Duration
: 1 hr flight and 1.5 hr drive
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Thimphu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 11: Sightseeing in Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft): Full day
Discover the cultural treasures of Thimphu today. Visit the National Library to see ancient Buddhist texts and the Painting School where artisans perfect traditional crafts. Explore the Textile and Folk Heritage Museum to understand Bhutanese daily life. Stop by the National Memorial Chorten, a spiritual hub, and the impressive Tashichho Dzong, the seat of government. End your day wandering the vibrant local bazaar filled with handicrafts and local flavors.
Max Altitude
: Thimphu (2,334 m / 7,657 ft)
Trip Duration
: Full day
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Thimphu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 12: Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (1,200 m / 3,937 ft): 3 hrs
Drive from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing the scenic Dochula Pass at 3,050 meters. On clear days, enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Descend into the lush Punakha valley where rhododendron forests line the road. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple set in a peaceful village. End the day at Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece located between two rivers, soaking in its history and beauty before heading back to Thimphu.
Max Altitude
: Dochula Pass (3,050 m / 10,004 ft)
Trip Duration
: 3 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Thimphu
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 13: Drive to Paro with Sightseeing Along the Way (2,280 m / 7,480 ft): 2 hrs
Begin your morning drive to Paro, stopping at Ta Dzong, the National Museum showcasing Bhutan’s rich heritage and artifacts. Explore Paro Rimpung Dzong, a majestic fortress with stunning architecture and historical significance. Cross the iconic 16th-century cantilever bridge and visit the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, a fortress that defended Bhutan centuries ago. If time permits, visit a traditional farmhouse and observe the rural Bhutanese lifestyle before settling in Paro.
Max Altitude
: Paro (2,280 m / 7,480 ft)
Trip Duration
: 2 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Paro
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 14: Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) (3,120 m / 10,236 ft): 4-5 hrs
Start early for the iconic trek to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. The trail winds through pine and rhododendron forests, offering spectacular views of the Paro valley below. Stop at a cliffside cafeteria to catch your breath while taking in close-up views of the monastery clinging dramatically to the rock face. Continue the hike to the monastery itself, a sacred site where Guru Padmasambhava meditated for three months. Return to Paro for a restful evening.
Max Altitude
: Taktsang Monastery (3,120 m / 10,236 ft)
Trip Duration
: 4-5 hrs
Meals
: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight
: Paro
Accomodation
: Hotel
Day 15: Departure from Paro International Airport
After breakfast, your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you the memories of a journey through two kingdoms rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Meals
: Breakfast
Gallery
What is included //php the_title(); ?>
Accommodation
- Standard government-approved accommodation (twin-sharing rooms) for the entire tour
Meals & Drinking Water
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea, and snacks throughout the tour
- Drinking water during the tour
Transportation
- All international and domestic airport transfers by private tourist vehicle
- Private transportation within Bhutan in a designated vehicle. Toyota 4WD vehicles, luggage vans, and light trucks for group travel.
- Luggage carried by horses, mules, or yaks at higher elevations during the tour
Guide & Support Staff
- Licensed, English-speaking Bhutanese tour guides throughout the trip
- Required local staff and porters to carry luggage and camping gear during the tour
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment, and medical care for all support staff
Permits & Entry Fees
- Bhutan visa fees and processing assistance
- All monument and museum entrance fees as per the itinerary
- All access permits and entry fees for routes and monuments
Extras & Souvenirs
- Duffle/kit bag, and a trip completion certificate
Administrative
- All government taxes, official expenses, and tourist service charges
- Government royalty (35% of the $200 minimum daily package), supporting Bhutan’s healthcare and education
What is Excluded
- International flight tickets and airport departure taxes
- Lunch and dinner (except farewell dinner)
- Meals other than breakfast in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lhasa (except Chitwan, which is full board)
- Travel insurance with emergency high-altitude evacuation coverage
- Drinks and bottled/boiled water during the tour
- Tips for your guide and driver (tipping is customary and appreciated)
- Personal travel insurance
- Any expenses not mentioned under the “Includes” section
- Nepal entry visa
Trip Depature
Ama Adventure arranges both solo and group travel, ensuring amazing experiences with people from all over the world. Before departure, we reconfirm the number of participants in your group. We guarantee all group departure dates even if there’s only one person signed up for the Nepal and Bhutan . This ensures that your adventure is confirmed regardless of group size.
Difficulty Level
This 15-day Nepal and Bhutan trip is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. The itinerary involves mostly sightseeing with some easy hikes, including the moderately challenging trek to the Tiger’s Nest monastery in Bhutan. Travelers should be prepared for variable terrain and occasional altitude changes up to 3,050 meters. Prior travel experience in mountainous regions is helpful but not required.
Meals
Daily breakfasts are provided in all overnight locations, while your stay in Chitwan includes full board with drinks such as tea, coffee, and water. In Bhutan and Nepal, most hotels serve a variety of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes, with pork, chicken, beef, and fish commonly available alongside fresh, seasonal vegetables. Beef is generally available in Bhutanese cuisine but less common in Nepal due to cultural and religious practices. During the tour, you will receive three meals daily: breakfast, a hot picnic lunch, and dinner at the campsite or hotel, along with tea and snacks. Our experienced cooks prepare nutritious meals suitable for high-altitude trekking. Special dietary needs can be accommodated if informed in advance.
Accommodation
Hotels in Bhutan are classified by the government into A, B, or C categories, which roughly correspond to three- to four-star standards. In Paro and Thimphu, accommodations are typically in A-grade hotels such as Tashi Namgay Resort or Namgay Heritage, depending on availability. For the trekking parts of the tour in Bhutan, accommodation is in comfortable tents. In Nepal, you will stay in three-star hotels and resorts in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, which offer comfortable twin-sharing rooms. Single rooms can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.
Weather Information
In Nepal, winter (December to February) nights can be chilly with temperatures near 4°C, warming to about 22°C by day. Spring (March to May) is ideal with daytime temperatures around 25°C. Post-monsoon (September to December), temperatures cool to about 20°C during the day. Bhutan experiences similar seasonal patterns with cool nights and mild days in winter, warm and pleasant spring months, and cooler weather after the monsoon. Throughout both countries, vehicles and hotels have air conditioning for comfort.
Packing List
Below is a suggested packing list to help you prepare for the Nepal and Bhutan – 15 Days. Please let us know if you’d like to rent out these equipment at USD 35 each.
General
- General Gear and Clothing
- Duffel bag, rucksack, or suitcase
- Daypack for personal items
- Goggles or sunglasses for sun protection, dust, and wind
- Neck warmer (optional, recommended for cold season travel—January, February, and December)
Upper Body
- Warm wool or synthetic hat to cover ears (required for cold seasons: January, February, and December)
- Waterproof (preferably breathable) shell jacket (recommended for rainy season—June to September)
- 2 T-shirts
- Torso Clothing Essentials
- 2 pairs of lightweight long underwear/thermals (for winter travel—January, February, and December)
Lower Body
- 1 pair of cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of liner socks (preferably synthetic or Capilene)
Hands
- 1 pair of warm gloves (required for cold seasons: January, February, and December)
Feet
- 1 pair of light camping shoes or sneakers
- 1 pair of sandals (optional)
Note: Tight-fitting clothing such as Lycra may be considered offensive to locals, especially women. If you wear these for base layers, consider covering them with something else.
Undergarments
- Technical fabric/quick drying is best for underwear (opportunities to launder during the trip)
- Sports bras (women)
- Pajamas or sleeping clothes
First Aid Kits and Medications
- Extra-strength Excedrin for altitude-related headaches
- Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
- Immodium or Pepto-Bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
- Diamox (Acetazolamide) 125 mg or 250 mg for altitude sickness (consult with us before using this medication)
- Small personal first-aid kit with blister treatments like moleskin, band-aids, waterproof tape, and anti-infection ointments
Note: Our guides carry a basic first aid kit, but personal supplies are strongly recommended.
Other Essentials
- Valid passport
- 4 passport-sized photos
- Airline ticket (leave a copy at our office in Kathmandu in case you need to change the date)
- Lip balm (at least SPF 20, 2 sticks; consider a string to hang it around your neck)
- Sunscreen (SPF 40 recommended and should be relatively new)
- Pocket knife (small Swiss Army type)
- Water purification tablets or Polar-Pure crystals
- Toiletry kit (include toilet paper in a plastic bag, hand wipes, liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.)
- 2 bandanas
- Waterproof bags for documents/money
Tip: Thamel is full of gear shops where you can purchase or rent tour essentials at reasonable prices once you’re in Kathmandu.
Optional Items
- 1 pair adjustable trekking poles (highly recommended for knee/ankle support)
- Favorite snacks (max 2 lbs)
- Paperback books, cards, MP3 player (keep them lightweight; you can recharge at certain stops)
- Binoculars
- Lightweight point-and-shoot camera or one large SLR (digital cameras are fine, but keep batteries warm when not in use)
- Hydration bladder with drinking tube
- Pee bottle and pee funnel (useful for avoiding cold late-night trips)
- 1 small stainless steel thermos
Note: This list is a general guideline. You may adjust it based on your preferences. Many items are available in stores in Kathmandu.
Documents and Logistics
- Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date)
- Bhutan visa clearance letter (arranged by us; required for boarding your flight to Bhutan excluding citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives)
- 4 passport-sized photos (for permits or emergencies)
- Travel insurance (mandatory; must include emergency medical evacuation and trip cancellation)
- Flight tickets and printed itinerary (keep physical copies for airport check-in and immigration)
- Copy of travel permit and entry documents (provided on arrival; carry with you during the tour)
- Cash and traveller’s cheques (keep the numbers and proof of purchase separately.
Dates & Prices
We ensure departures on all published dates. If these dates don’t align with your plans, we’re happy to assist in setting a customized date. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group seeking private trips, you can tailor-make your adventure. Reach out to us for pricing details or any other queries.
Group Discount Prices
Traveler Reviews
