Nepal & Bhutan: From the Annapurna Foothills to Tiger's Nest

Arrive at Kathmandu and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel. Later, join the group for a welcome meeting to meet fellow travelers and get oriented for the journey ahead. The day concludes with an unforgettable six-course Nepali dining experience at Krishnarpan, Dwarika’s Hotel, where traditional flavors and slow-dining hospitality offer a perfect introduction to Nepal’s rich culinary heritage.

Please book any arriving flights to land by 1pm.

Included Experiences

• Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
• Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
• Dinner at Dwarika's Hotel: Experience the signature slow-dining journey at Krishnarpan, the acclaimed restaurant of Dwarika’s Hotel. Indulge in a six-course feast that celebrates Nepal’s rich culinary heritage, offering a vibrant and immersive taste of traditional flavors crafted to delight every sense.

After breakfast in Kathmandu, take a short flight to Pokhara before transferring to Lumle, the gateway to the Annapurna foothills. Begin a scenic 1.5–2 hour trek from Lumle to Tomijong Lodge, winding through cultivated fields, local homesteads, and forested trails with panoramic views of Machapuchhare. Enjoy lunch and free time at the lodge, soaking in the terraced gardens and Himalayan backdrop. Later, stroll through the Gurung village, meet retired Gurkha soldiers, and glimpse rural life and local honey-harvesting traditions, before returning to the lodge for a relaxing dinner.

Included Experiences

• Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
• Lumle to Tomijong Trek: Arrive in Lumle and set out on a short yet scenic trek to Tomijong, typically 1.5–2 hours on foot. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through cultivated fields and traditional village homesteads, offering glimpses into daily life in the hills. Beyond the villages, the path winds into mixed forest, following an earthy, occasionally rocky trail beneath a canopy of trees. The final stretch climbs gradually toward your lodge, where sweeping mountain views and a warm welcome await.
• Afternoon in Tomijong: After lunch at the lodge, unwind in the terraced gardens and take in sweeping views of Machapuchhare. In the afternoon, explore the Gurung village, meet retired Gurkha soldiers, and discover local life, including traditional honey harvesting.

After breakfast at the lodge, embark on a scenic hike from Tomijong through the lower Annapurna foothills, passing terraced farmlands, wooded hillsides, and charming villages. Stop in Tolkha Village to meet the local Magar and Gurung communities before continuing to Landruk Village, where stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli await. After lunch at Landruk Lodge, return downhill to Tomijong, enjoying the lush rice terraces and traditional stone paths, and spend the evening relaxing at the lodge before dinner.

Included Experiences

• Trek Tomijong to Tolkha: Today’s hike begins from Tomijong (1,400 m), winding through the lower Annapurna foothills with scenic farmlands and charming villages. You’ll follow a mix of gentle ascents and descents through wooded hillsides and rice terraces to reach Tolkha (1,840 m), a picturesque village home to Magar and Gurung communities. Terrain: gentle ascents/descents, wooded hillsides, rice terraces, farmland Length: 6km (3.7 miles) Duration: 2-3 hours Elevation: +440m
• Trek Tolkha to Landruk: After exploring Tolkha, continue to Landruk Village, walking along level paths and gradual descents through terraced fields and scattered settlements. On clear days, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Terrain: gradual descents, level walking, terraced fields, scattered settlements Length: 3 km (2 miles) Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour Elevation: -120
• Trek Landruk to Tomijong: Stop for lunch at Landruk Lodge before returning to Tomijong. Terrain: mostly downhill, terraced rice fields, stone-paved paths Length: 9 km (5.6 miles) Duration: 3-4 hours Elevation: -320

Start the day with breakfast at the lodge before hiking to Australian Camp, perched at 2,050 m and offering breathtaking panoramic views of Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Enjoy lunch amid the stunning scenery before trekking back to Lumle and driving to Pokhara. After checking in to your hotel, unwind with a Trekkers Healing Massage, then take an orientation walk around the vibrant Lakeside area to explore its bustling streets, shops, and lakeside charm.

Included Experiences

• Trek Tomijong to Australian Camp: Trek from the lodge to Australian Camp (2,050 m) along a short route near Pokhara. The trail offers clear-day views of Machapuchhre, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli. Enjoy lunch at the camp while taking in the panoramic scenery. Terrain: mix of gentle paths and some steeper, stone-stepped sections Length: 3-4 km (2-2.5 miles) Duration: 1.5-2 hours Elevation: +650
• Spa Experience Pokhara: Be pampered with a one-hour massage at the hotel spa to relax after trekking.

Celebrate your OMG Day with a choice of morning activities designed to refresh your body and mind: Yoga or a Sound Bath session. After breakfast and some free time at the resort, your group comes back together as you travel together to a Tibetan refugee village to engage in a fascinating momo making class with your local hosts. Momos were brought from Tibet to Nepal by the refugees who came during the Chinese invasion. The village you visit this afternoon are preserving their cultural heritage by continuing to tell their story and cook their cuisine. Engage with your hosts by getting involved in kneading the dough, filling the dumpling with their savoury filling, and sharing a delicious meal with your new friends. After the cooking class, your options continue with either cycling around Pame or a Mandala Art workshop, making this a fully customizable day of wellness, culture, and hands-on experiences.

Included Experiences

• Tibetan Momo Making: Drive to a village of Tibetan refugees who settled in Nepal. While here take part in a momo making session and lunch served by the local families.
• Yoga or Sound Bath Session and Cycling around Pame or Mandala Art Making Workshop: Morning Option 1: Start the day with a morning yoga session. Morning Option 2: Start the day with a morning sound bath session. Afternoon Option 1: Cycle through the village of Pame featuring stunning mountain views. Peddle along the river that feeds into the nearby Phewa Lake. The distance covered is 26km (16 miles) with an elevation gain of 300m, and a total time of 2-3 hours. Afternoon Option 2: Take part in a Mandala art-making workshop to explore local artistic traditions.

After breakfast, journey from Pokhara to Chitwan, following scenic highways to the serene setting of Barahi Jungle Lodge. After lunch and time to relax, set out on a cycling ride through a nearby Tharu village, soaking in the local atmosphere and experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the Tharu community. The day concludes with an evening cultural dance performance by locals, followed by dinner.

Included Experiences

• Tharu Villages Cycling: Cycle around the nearby paddy fields and Tharu Villages in this region. Helmets are provided and the activity lasts for around 45 minutes along a flat surface trail.
• Tharu Community Cultural Dance Show: Spend the evening listening to traditional song and watching cultural dance performances by Tharu community members. You will see dances like the Bhajayati and Thekara stick dance, the peacock dance, and the fire dance. Join with the dancers if you wish and learn the moves while adding your own flair. Dinner will be served buffet-style in the community dining hall following the performance.

Wooden canoes, seating only six people, carry you slowly down river, expertly paddled by your local guide. In relative silence, watch for kingfishers diving into the river. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodile on shore sunning themselves. Your boat ride brings you down the Rapti river until it meets with the Narayani. This morning river safari is an incredibly unique experience in Chitwan, and without the noise of the vehicle motor, witness as wildlife comes remarkably close. Your river safari ends at midday as you approach the riverbank, greeted by welcoming new friends. Your hosts for lunch are from the Barauli Community homestay. This social enterprise provides meals, accommodation and much more to travellers visiting this remote part of Nepal. Dine on a delicious Tharu specialties and learn more about the community. Afterwards, your adventure continues by jeep through the secluded edge of Chitwan National Park. Slowly navigating the forest, you’ll have the chance to spot a wide array of wildlife—including the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger—making this an unforgettable finale to a truly unique day.

Included Experiences

• Boating to Almatari: Row through the gentle run flowing Rapti River towards the Narayani River in a canoe on this unique way of visiting Chitwan. There will be ample opportunity at the leisurely pace to view the flora, fauna and wildlife around you.
• Barauli Community Homestay Lunch and Visit: Enjoy the hospitality of the Tharu, an indigenous community from the Teral belt of Nepal who live in eco-friendly homes. Experience their unique culture through dances, songs, and a delicious traditional meal.
• Chitwan 4x4 Safari: Explore the diverse ecosystems of Royal Chitwan National Park from the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle. Keep your eyes peeled for the many animals that live there, including birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and rhinos. If you're lucky, you might get to see an elusive tiger.

Explore Experiences

After breakfast, transfer to Bharatpur Airport and fly back to Kathmandu, then continue to Bhaktapur for a guided exploration of this UNESCO heritage city. Experience its ancient architecture, vibrant local life, and participate in a hands-on pottery-making session, learning to craft traditional clay objects. Return to Kathmandu for some rest before concluding your journey with a farewell dinner at Bricks Café, celebrating your adventure and the memories shared along the way.

Included Experiences

• Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
• Bhaktapur Excursion: Visit this unique old town known as the City of Devotees. Explore Hindu temples, pagodas, palaces, and monuments, including the beautiful wood-carved palace in Durbar Square. You can pick up clay pots and other souvenirs in the colourful open markets and taste home made yogurt, known as khopa dhau, which Bhaktapur is famous for and before you leave, participate in a hands-on pottery making workshop.

Explore Experiences

Enjoy a last breakfast in Nepal before your journey begins to Bhutan. Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be met by a G Adventures representative and transfer along the scenic National Highway to Thimphu, Bhutan’s serene capital. After checking in, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the majestic Buddha Dordenma Statue, a 169-foot monument perched in the mountains. A gentle climb of 228 steps rewards you with sweeping views of Thimphu valley and a closer look at the intricate golden statue commemorating Bhutan’s Fourth King. Later, wander through the bustling Centenary Farmers Market, filled with fresh produce, vibrant spices, and handcrafted souvenirs, offering an authentic taste of Bhutanese daily life. Conclude your day with a welcome dinner, savoring traditional Bhutanese flavors in a cultural setting.

Included Experiences

• Plane: Leave Kathmandu behind and fly toward the mountain-ringed valley of Paro, where the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan awaits.
• Buddha Point Visit: Buddha Point is home to Thimphu’s most recognized landmark, the Buddha Dordenma. Guarding the entry to the Thimphu valley, this 51-meter (167ft) gilded bronze statue is filled with 125,000 miniature statues and sits atop a three-storey base housing a chapel and thousands of donated statuettes. The statue was commissioned to mark His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s 60th birthday and was originally made in China before being transported to Thimphu in pieces. The massive Buddha statue in Thimphu made of bronze and gold. Take lots of pictures - it's beautiful!
• Orientation walk to Centenary Farmers Market: Experience the Centenary Farmers Market, Bhutan’s lively local marketplace where farmers and artisans gather to showcase fresh seasonal produce, traditional ingredients, and handcrafted goods.

Explore Experiences

Begin the day with a drive to the scenic Dochula Pass at 3,200 meters, where 108 Chortens (stupas) and colorful prayer flags frame stunning views of Bhutan’s Himalayan peaks, including Gangkar Puensum, the country’s highest mountain. Descend to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple surrounded by lush rice fields. Walk through the village of Sopsokha, noted for its unique phallus-painted houses, and experience local rituals and blessings at the temple. Continue to Punakha town to cross the Punakha Suspension Bridge and enjoy lunch before visiting the striking Punakha Dzong, renowned for its historic and architectural significance. Return to Thimphu in the evening with free time to explore before dinner at your hotel.

Included Experiences

• Chimi Lhakhang Visit: Take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the “Divine Madman." Built in 1499, it is mainly visited today by women as it is known as the temple of fertility.
• Punakha Dzong Visit: Visit Punakha Dzong, the winter seat of the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body, remarkably located between the rivers of the Mo (female) Chu and Pho (male) Chu. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong (fortress) in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures, housing many sacred relics. It is also the winter capital of the Je Khenpo (chief abbot). Built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in around 1637. Arguably, it is the most beautiful Dzong in the country. The Dzong guards Bhutan’s most treasured relic, the Rangjung Kharsapani, an image of Chenresig kept away from the public in the utse (tower). It has survived Tibetan invasions, numerous fires, floods and a glacial lake burst. The Dzong served as the capital and seat of the Bhutanese Government until the early 1950s; and the coronation of the His Majesty the First Druk, Gyalpo Ugyen Wangchuck, took place here.

Explore Experiences

Explore Thimphu’s cultural highlights, beginning with the serene National Memorial Chorten, followed by a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, where traditional Bhutanese life is brought vividly to life. Continue to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, showcasing Bhutan’s unique arts and crafts, and stop at the Royal Textile Academy to admire intricate weaving traditions. In the afternoon, drive to the picturesque Haa Valley, a serene mountain valley rich in natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the valley, taking in the landscapes and local village life. Conclude the day with a hands-on cooking experience, preparing traditional Bhutanese Hoenty dumplings.

Included Experiences

• Memorial Chorten Visit: The chorten is one of the most prominent religious structures in Thimphu, and for local Bhutanese it is a popular part of their daily prayers. Watch locals walk around the Chorten, spinning the prayer wheels and meditating in this lovely and peaceful spot.
• Folk Heritage Museum: Explore the Folk Heritage Museum, which preserves the traditional art of weaving through exhibition and has a good collection of old textiles which are rich in colour and design.
• Hoenty Dumpling Cooking Experience: Join a hands-on cooking experience where you’ll learn to prepare hoenty—traditional bucket dumplings—guided by local expertise. Discover the flavors and techniques behind this unique dish before enjoying your freshly made creation.

Today is your OMG Day, offering you the chance to choose between two unforgettable adventures in the stunning Haa Valley. Option 1: Juney Drak Hike & Cultural Immersion Hike near Katsho Village through pine forests to the cliffside Juney Drak Monastery (“mini Tiger’s Nest”), seeing sacred footprints of Machig Lhadrön, naturally formed rocks, and golden and silver bowls, with panoramic views of Haa Valley. Continue to the 200-year-old Ingo Village, enjoy a picnic lunch, and free time before exploring a fishery center and learning wood carving. Option 2: Haa Panorama Hike Drive to Yangthang Goenpa and follow a scenic trail through pine forests, meadows, and riverside villages connecting ancient monasteries. Ascend to 3,150m, taking in spectacular views of the Meri Puensum peaks and Haa Chu River. Cross traditional bridges, enjoy a picnic lunch on the trail, and descend into Wangtsa Village, a charming traditional settlement. In the evening, your group will reunite for a thrilling archery demonstration and dinner at the hotel, sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

Included Experiences

• Your OMG Day: Juney Drak Hike & Cultural Immersion or Haa Panorama Hiking: Option 1: Hike from Katsho Village through pine forests to the cliffside Juney Drak Monastery for panoramic Haa Valley views, then continue to Ingo Village for a picnic, cultural visits, and hands-on local experiences. Terrain: moderate, steady ascent, passing through dense forests Length: 3 km (2 miles) Duration: 3 hours (including picnic lunch) Elevation: +100-200m Option 2: Set out from Yangthang Goenpa on a scenic hike through pine forests, open meadows, and riverside villages, linking historic monasteries and crossing traditional bridges, with sweeping views over the Haa Valley and Meri Puensum peaks. Terrain: gradual uphill ascent on forest and meadow trails, followed by a steady descent; natural paths with some uneven sections, plus log and cantilever bridge crossings. Length: 11km (7 miles) Duration: 4-5 hours (including picnic lunch) Elevation +480m

Explore Experiences

Travel along the winding Bondey-Haa Highway to Chele La Pass, where dense forests of spruce, larch, and rhododendron open to breathtaking views of Mt. Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and the northern Himalayas. Hike to the serene Kila Nunnery, nestled on a cliffside and home to meditating nuns, then descend to Gorina Lhakhang before driving to Paro town for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Tara Monastery, perched on a ridge with panoramic valley views and a unique vantage point of Paro Airport. Return to your hotel and indulge in a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, where fire-roasted river stones heat mineral-rich water in a centuries-old wellness ritual. The soothing warmth, aromatic herbs, and tranquil setting provide the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of hiking and sightseeing. Conclude with dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the day’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

Included Experiences

• Kila Goempa Nunnery Hike: Hike through the deep forest of pine trees and rhododendrons to Kila Goempa nunnery (approx 2.5 hrs). It seems to cling to a rocky cliff and houses around 50 nuns. This is a moderate level hike through stunningly beautiful scenery.
• Tara Monastery Visit: Visit Tara Monastery, a serene retreat nestled in Gimna Village. Perched on a ridge overlooking the valley, its tranquil meditation spaces provide a peaceful contrast to Bhutan’s busier landmarks, while the site also offers a unique vantage point to watch planes skillfully navigate the narrow Paro Valley to land at Paro International Airport.
• Hot Stone Bath: Relax with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, a centuries-old wellness ritual using fire-heated river stones to warm mineral-rich water—perfect for soothing muscles after a day of hiking.

Explore Experiences

Embark on a scenic hike through verdant forests and winding mountain trails to the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside. This sacred 8th-century site, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have flown on a tiger, offers panoramic views of the Paro Valley and a profound sense of history and spirituality. Pause for lunch at the cafeteria, then return to your hotel with free time to explore the charming streets of Paro town. Conclude your journey with a celebratory dinner accompanied by traditional Bhutanese cultural dance, a fitting finale to your unforgettable adventure.

Included Experiences

• Transport: Settle in and scan the scenery as you journey to and from the Tiger’s Nest Monastery Hike from Paro.
• Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) & Monastery Hike: Hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger’s Nest); containing 13 holy relics, it's considered one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world. It is also where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have landed on the back of a tigress in the 8th century. Take in the stunning views en route and the incredible vista from this monastery, which clings to the rock towering 2,953m above the valley. The group will hike from 2400m elevation and reach 3100m at the Taktsang Monastery before returning back to 2400m in the same day. The climb should take around 6 hours for a total distance of 7 km.
• Free Time: Enjoy free time in the afternoon to discover Paro town before your farewell dinner.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, savoring your final moments in Bhutan’s serene surroundings. For travelers with early flights, a packed breakfast will be thoughtfully provided so you can start your day smoothly. A private airport transfer will ensure your comfortable and timely journey to Paro International Airport, where you will bid farewell to the majestic landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences of Bhutan.

Included Experiences

• Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.