Nepal and Bhutan Tour - 12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

1. Kathmandu
   30m
   A Peregrine representative 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 them with the leader to rearrange them.
   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.

Day 2: Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing

1. Kathmandu
   Pass by
   On this day 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 5th 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.

Day 3: Drive to Pokhara

1. Pokhara
   2h
   The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara is a scenic journey of approximately 200 kilometers, taking around 7 to 9 hours by road. This route offers stunning views of the Nepalese countryside, including rivers, mountains, and local villages. The road, part of the Prithvi Highway, winds through the lush landscapes of central Nepal, providing a picturesque glimpse into the rural life of the region. This drive is a popular choice for travelers heading to Pokhara to explore its serene lakes, trekking routes, and panoramic views of the Annapurna range.

Day 4: Pokhara: Exploration day

1. Pokhara
   Pass by
   Pokhara, a serene lakeside city in Nepal, offers an array of captivating sightseeing options that showcase its natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day with a sunrise view from Sarangkot, where the early morning light bathes the Annapurna range in a golden glow. After descending, enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, a peaceful experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains reflected in its waters. Nearby, explore the mysterious depths of Gupteshwor Cave and the dramatic cascade of Devi's Falls. Visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp to learn about the culture and crafts of the Tibetan community that has found refuge here. Finally, conclude your tour at the Peace Stupa, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Pokhara and a tranquil space for reflection. Each site provides a unique perspective on the natural and cultural treasures of Pokhara.

Day 5: Drive to Chitwan National Park

1. Chitwan National Park
   6h
   Today, our journey takes us to Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first national park, with a 6/7-hour drive, arriving in the afternoon. Upon arrival, you'll check into an ethnic and eco-friendly lodge in Sauraha. The lodge manager will greet you and introduce your nature guide, essential for all park activities. After a brief on the schedule, you might want to relax at the lodge post-drive. Later, enjoy a sunset and a chilled beer by the riverside. In the evening, experience the cultural richness of the Tharu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Chitwan, through their traditional dance show. Optionally, your leader can arrange a visit to a local theatre for a cultural program. End your day with a drink at a hotel bar or local establishment, enjoying time with friends.

Day 6: Jungle Activities in Chitwan National Park

1. Chitwan National Park
   Pass by
   Peregrine Tour and Trek prioritizes ethical animal interactions. We avoid elephant safaris and baths, offering instead Jeep safaris, Canoe rides, and the Elephant Walk. This morning activity lets you observe an Asian elephant up close in a non-harmful way, learning about its behavior. Explore Chitwan National Park, home to the endangered Rhinoceros unicornis and around 120 Bengal tigers. The park also hosts various deer and bird species. Enjoy the serenity of the Rapti River during an afternoon canoe ride, spotting endangered Gharials and Marsh Muggers. Wind down with dinner at the Tharu Kitchen after a day full of natural encounters.

Day 7: Return to Kathmandu

1. Kathmandu
   6h
   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.

Day 8: Fly to Paro and Drive to Thimpu

1. Thimphu
   7h
   We'll fly from Tribhuvan International Airport to Paro, Bhutan. For the best views, try to sit on the left side of the plane. Once at Paro Airport, we'll handle immigration and customs, then a licensed Bhutanese guide will escort us to Thimphu, a two-hour drive showcasing the stunning Bhutanese landscape including rivers and red rice fields. In Thimphu, after a local lunch and visiting the Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory and Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, enjoy some free time exploring the city. Dinner at the hotel will be followed by a discussion on our Bhutan adventure. Note, Peregrine Treks and Tours manages all group visas and adheres to Bhutan's quality-focused tourism regulations. Fixed travel dates are mandatory, and unexpected changes may incur additional costs.

Day 9: Exploring Thimphu and drive to Punakha

1. Punakha
   2h
   In Thimpu, Bhutan's capital, explore vibrant streets rich in cultural heritage. Stroll through Tibetan Village, observe local life, and wander through blue pine forests. Hike riverside trails to Pangri Zampa Gompa, a hub for traditional astrology, and visit Tango and Cheri Gompa for a spiritual experience. Enjoy a picnic by the river, then continue to Thimpu’s landmarks like the National Memorial Stupa, honoring the third king, and Zhilukha Nunnery, the largest in Bhutan. Explore Choki Traditional Art School and the National Textile Museum to delve into Bhutanese arts and crafts. Shop at the National Handicrafts Emporium for traditional products. Your journey will also include a drive to Punakha, exploring lower-altitude areas and ancient capitals, with a pause at Dochula Pass to admire Gangkar Punsum, the unclimbed highest peak.

Day 10: Exploring Punakha and drive to Paro

1. Paro
   Pass by
   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.

Day 11: Tiger's Nest Monastery: Challenging but worth taking the trail.

1. Paro
   3h
   After breakfast, we'll drive to the trail's starting point for a 2-3 hour, four-kilometer hike up to the Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), perched 3000 ft above Paro Valley. The challenging path offers an option to hire a pony for part of the trek. As you ascend, the stunning views of the monastery and the valleys will help ease the climb's difficulty. Exploring this historic site, with its unique architectural features and serene ambiance, is truly enchanting. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking boots and carry water and snacks. After spending a memorable last night in Paro Valley, enjoy provided meals and accommodation at a 3-star hotel like Mandala Resort.

Day 12: Farewell from Paro

1. Paro
   4h
   On the last day of the Nepal and Bhutan Tour, you will have a delicious breakfast before traveling to Paro Airport. Leaving Bhutan behind and taking the memories, we depart and fly back to your destination.
   Meals: Breakfast

Pickup details

For the Nepal and Bhutan Tour, we want to assure you that our representative will be waiting for you at the airport, holding an A4 paper with your name clearly written on it. Our representative will be easily identifiable and easy to locate. Additionally, we'll provide you with the mobile number of our representative to ensure smooth communication and minimize any potential inconvenience.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Kindly inform us of your meal preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or any other dietary restrictions, after confirming your trip.
• Please note that the Nepal Visa is not included in the package, but you can obtain it at Kathmandu Airport. Keep in mind that the Nepal Immigration authorities may request a vaccination report or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours.
• Please share your flight arrival and departure information for airport transfer arrangements.