Bhutan & Nepal
Energetic pace with more physically demanding activity. Longer walking/hiking tours (more than 3 hours), over uneven and possibly rugged terrain. Expect some longer days. Varying altitudes with some steep ascents/descents. Capable of standing for extended periods of time. Some days may include 5–13 km of walking over the course of the day.
Depart for Kathmandu via Istanbul.
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.
Fly to the subtropical Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to Royal Bengal tigers, rhinos, and crocodiles. Enjoy a Tharu Stick Dance show in the evening.
Enjoy a full day in Chitwan with a naturalist guide for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for the one-horned rhinoceros, various species of deer, and—if you’re lucky—the elusive leopard or majestic Royal Bengal tiger.
Fly to Pokhara, a haven of natural beauty with a tropical atmosphere and expansive Himalayan views. From here, we drive to Ghattekhola (1,200 m) and begin a scenic 2-hour trek to the picturesque village of Dhampus. After lunch, enjoy an optional guided walk through the old village. Overnight at a charming mountain lodge, where sweeping views of the Annapurna Range await.
We rise before dawn to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises. After breakfast, enjoy a hike to the Australian Camp for a fresh perspective of the Annapurnas. Later, we transfer to Pokhara, stopping en route to visit Davi’s Waterfall and Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave before continuing to our destination.
Return to Kathmandu and drive to Bhaktapur, the Kathmandu Valley’s most carefully preserved medieval city. In the afternoon, visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple. Continue to Boudhanath, a striking 36-metre-high stupa adorned with four pairs of eyes said to watch over all for righteous behaviour. This evening, witness the magnificent Aarti ceremony—an elaborate Hindu lighting ritual performed by a priest.
Fly to Paro, enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views, including Mt. Everest, before descending into Bhutan. Drive to Thimphu to visit National Memorial Chorten, Panfri Zampa monastery, and Tashichho Dzong. Later, explore Thimphu’s main street and market, experiencing the city’s vibrant culture and historic landmarks.
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, stopping en route to visit the historic Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, beautifully restored after a 2012 fire. Nestled at 1,300 m, Punakha’s fertile valleys are nourished by the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. On arrival we check in to the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness”, featuring a gold-domed tower and religious statues. Experience Bhutanese rural life as you walk through farms and rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple
Visit Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan’s oldest fortress built in 1627, now a Buddhist Studies school. Proceed to Paro, a wonderfully scenic area with ancient temples and monasteries. Explore Ta Dzong (National Museum) for its antique paintings, weapons, and artifacts, then visit the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels”
We take a leisurely hike to the first viewpoint of Taktsang Monastery, the famed “Tiger’s Nest.” From here, enjoy spectacular views and a perfect photo opportunity of Bhutan’s most iconic monastery.
Fly to Kathmandu and embark on a heritage walk of Patan Durbar Square. Stroll through its narrow lanes and visit the Patan Museum, admiring exquisite temples, courtyards, and intricate Newari wood, stone, and metal carvings.
This morning, return to Durbar Square to witness locals offering prayers and libations to various deities. Continue to Swayambhunath Stupa, which offers spectacular views of the Kathmandu Valley. In the afternoon, visit Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual centre for Nepal’s Tibetan exile community. This evening, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner
We return home via Istanbul.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (120 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
