Nepal & Bhutan Explorer

13 Days Kathmandu to Paro
Nepal & Bhutan Explorer
Nepal & Bhutan Explorer
Nepal & Bhutan Explorer

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 13 Day Nepal & Bhutan Explorer. Nepal and Bhutan are some of the most undiscovered places on Earth, but this two-week adventure will reveal their magic before the rest of the world catches on. You’ll take part in traditions of small Nepalese communities, experience the wildlife and rich biodiversity of Chitwan National Park, and feel Bhutan’s spiritual nature in storied Buddhist temples. This adventure might be big, but the journey won’t ever feel rushed, meaning you’ll have plenty of time to meet local people and embrace their way of life.
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US$2,962 per person
Price shown based on twin share
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Trip Length
Trip Length

13 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Kathmandu

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Paro

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Trip Style

Classic

Budget
Budget

Affordable

Age Range
Age Range

6-99 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

16

Pace
Pace

Moderate

Guide Style
Guide Style

Fully Guided

Tour Code
Tour Code

ANKP

Itinerary

Arrive at any time. Welcome meeting will be in the evening with an included entrance and self-guided walk in Patan Durbar Square. Our hotel is located in Patan, as such we have included the entrance ticket to nearby Patan Durbar Square where you can explore on your own.
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Stay
Included Experiences
  • Patan Durbar Square Entrance: Enjoy a self-guided tour of this spectacular square built primarily in the 16th and 17th centuries. Located within it are the Royal Palace and many temples built in the traditional Newari pagoda style. We also visit the Golden Temple and Patan museum. South of the square lies the Kumari Chowk, home to Nepal's living goddess, the Kumari, a prepubescent girl chosen as the incarnation of the Hindu goddess Talejn. The Kumari lives a cloistered life, rarely leaving the confines of the chowk. When she does, it is for important religious festivals, but her feet are not allowed to touch the ground. Once the Kumari reaches puberty, another 3-5-year-old girl will take her place. If she is receiving visitors, we may be able to stop by for a blessing.
  • Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. 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.

Take a guided tour of the royal city of Bhaktapur and visit the most ancient shrine in Kathmandu, Swayambhunath Temple. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings). Afterwards, taste the delicious dishes made during an authentic local lunch. The evening is free to do as you please. Take a tour of the world heritage site of Bhaktapur and visit Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the monkey temple, the oldest shrine in Kathmandu. Its lofty white dome and glittering golden spire are visible for many miles! Later, opt to visit Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River.
Accommodation: Hotel Traditional Stay
Included Meals: Lunch
Included Experiences
  • 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.
  • Nepalese Dumplings Cooking Demonstration: Enjoy a cooking demonstration at a local establishment and learn how to make momos (traditional dumplings). Afterwards, taste the delicious dishes made during a Nepali lunch.
  • Swayambhunath Temple Visit: Visit Swayambhunath Buddhist temple and Unesco World Heritage Site, the most ancient and enigmatic of all the holy shrines in Kathmandu. Explore the structure and be sure to check out the Buddha's eyes painted on each side of the Stupa. The site is also known as the monkey temple, for the vast amount of creatures who call the complex home.
Optional Experiences
  • Everest Flight: Get a close look at awesome Mt Everest, the highest mountain in the world, without having to do any climbing; this one-hour plane tour will give you an unforgettable experience. At times, the weather may cover Everest, but the surrounding view is still worth the ride!
  • Boudhanath Stupa Visit: Enjoy a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Built in the 5th century, it still attracts many pilgrims, particularly Tibetan Buddhists and local Nepalis, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the compassionate eyes of Buddha gazing from the facade and take in the peaceful atmosphere and observe Buddhist monks at prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. Follow the pilgrims walking clockwise around the stupa, rotating the prayer wheels and chanting "OM MANI PADME HUM" meaning "diamond on a lotus." Continue through the thriving market surrounding the area which is alive with chants, singing bowls, monasteries, shops selling Tibetan wares and cafes serving authentic Tibetan cuisine.
  • Pashupatinath Ghats and Temple Visit: Visit Pashupatinath, one of the most sacred Hindu temple complexes in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this is the final stop for many Hindus, who's families bring them here to set funeral pyres on the ghats to cremate their loved ones. Respectful viewing from across the river is culturally acceptable, you also will see sadhus (Hindu holy men) and pilgrims perform bathing rituals. Please note the inclusion of a taxi costs extra.

Drive across the mountains to beautiful Pokhara. Immerse yourself in the views of the spectacular Annapurna Range. Upon arrival set out on an orientation walk along Phewa Lake. A lively ride along stunning scenery brings us from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
Accommodation: Hotel Sarowar
Included Experiences
  • Pokhara Orientation Walk: Breathe in the fresh air and take in the views of the Himalayas and Phewa Lake while getting your bearings around this scenic city.

Spend the day as you please, indulging in a variety of optional activities in Pokhara. Find a cute cafe to sip some tea in or maybe go for a short hike in the Annapurna ranges. You could also walk up to Sarangkot for incredible views or spend time boating in Phewa lake and walk through the gardens.
Accommodation: Hotel Sarowar
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Enjoy Pokhara today. Hike in the foothills of the Annapurna Range or take a stroll through the lakeside market of Pokhara.

Leave Pokhara behind and transfer by private vehicle to Chitwan. Upon arrival enjoy a welcome by the Chitwan Community Guesthouse. Travel to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy an overnight cultural experience with the indigenous Tharu community. Experience their culture through dance and song, along with a traditional meal in the familial dining area. In the evening, retreat back to your private thatched cottage to watch the buffalo and goats roaming about. Continue on to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Chitwan National Park. Known as the Terai Tarai ("moist land"), the landscape you travel through today is a belt of marshy grassland, savannah, and forests at the base of the Himalayas.
Accommodation: Barauli Community Homestay
Included Meals: Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Barauli Community Immersion: Experience traditional Chitwan life by opting to participate in a cultural dinner and dance held by our Barauli hosts.
  • Cycling: Explore the village and its surroundings with a guided bike ride. Enjoy sunset on the banks of the Narayani river over a cup of tea.
  • Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay: 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. Stay on the property in private guesthouses that resemble traditional village architecture of the local Tharu people. Enjoy modern conveniences like running water, comfortable beds, and mosquito nets. The 14 cottages are each named after the local woman that manages the property. There are also tended gardens and small patches of farmland in the village compound with animals tethered inside the pastures. Any meals will be eaten in the communal dining hall and the local women will serve you food that has been sourced completely from the surrounding land and community.

Take a 4x4 jeep safari through the national park and search for the elusive tiger. Explore the national park by 4x4 safari before a guided half-day walk inside the park. Enjoy free time to enjoy some bird watching. The Terai-Duar region is home to the endangered Indian rhinoceros, as well as elephants, Bengal tigers, bears, leopards, and other wild animals. The Royal Chitwan National Park and Royal Bardia National Park preserve significant sections of habitat for these animals, making them home to some of the greatest concentrations of rhinoceros and tigers left in South Asia.
Accommodation: Barauli Community Homestay
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Make the most of your free time here in this beautiful place.
  • Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay: 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. Stay on the property in private guesthouses that resemble traditional village architecture of the local Tharu people. Enjoy modern conveniences like running water, comfortable beds, and mosquito nets. The 14 cottages are each named after the local woman that manages the property. There are also tended gardens and small patches of farmland in the village compound with animals tethered inside the pastures. Any meals will be eaten in the communal dining hall and the local women will serve you food that has been sourced completely from the surrounding land and community.
  • 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.
Optional Experiences
  • Birdwatching: Keep your eyes peeled and binoculars ready to spot some amazing birds.

Travel back to the capital city and enjoy a free evening for last minute shopping and exploring. Return to Kathmandu and enjoy a free afternoon to continue exploring.
Accommodation: Kantipur Village
Included Experiences
  • Free Time: Finish up your sightseeing in Kathmandu.
Optional Experiences
  • Boudhanath Stupa Visit: Enjoy a visit to the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Built in the 5th century, it still attracts many pilgrims, particularly Tibetan Buddhists and local Nepalis, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the compassionate eyes of Buddha gazing from the facade and take in the peaceful atmosphere and observe Buddhist monks at prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. Follow the pilgrims walking clockwise around the stupa, rotating the prayer wheels and chanting "OM MANI PADME HUM" meaning "diamond on a lotus." Continue through the thriving market surrounding the area which is alive with chants, singing bowls, monasteries, shops selling Tibetan wares and cafes serving authentic Tibetan cuisine.
  • Pashupatinath Ghats and Temple Visit: Visit Pashupatinath, one of the most sacred Hindu temple complexes in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this is the final stop for many Hindus, who's families bring them here to set funeral pyres on the ghats to cremate their loved ones. Respectful viewing from across the river is culturally acceptable, you also will see sadhus (Hindu holy men) and pilgrims perform bathing rituals. Please note the inclusion of a taxi costs extra.

Fly from Nepal to Bhutan today for the start of the next leg of your adventure. Transfer to Thimphu from the Paro airport and opt to grab dinner with the group.
Accommodation: Hotel Damisa Bhutan
Included Meals: 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.
  • Free Time: Explore Thimphu on your own with free time to shop, eat, drink, and relax.

Visit the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Point, and Motithang Takin Preserve. In the evening, visit Tashichho Dzong. In the evening, visit the Tashi Chhoedzong, known as the "Fortress of Glorious Religion", initially built in 1702. Today, it houses the main secretariat building, the central monk body, and the office of the king.
Accommodation: Hotel Damisa Bhutan
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
  • Motithang Takin Preserve Visit: Enjoy a visit to the Motithang Takin Preserve, which was once a mini zoo. The area was converted into a preserve for Bhutan's national animal, the takin, which is a cross between a goat and an antelope.
  • Tashichho Dzong Visit: Enjoy a visit to Tashichho Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress. Its main building is typical of Bhutanese architecture, with whitewashed walls and a golden roof. The original structure was built in 1216 and now houses the civil government.
  • 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!
  • Thimphu Orientation Experience: Thimphu is the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. It is also Bhutan's largest city and displays loads of traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, and culture. It's a modern city with unique character. You'll see the old and the new blend together here as you walk the streets lines with restaurants and cafes that sit alongside old fortresses and monasteries. Did you know that Thimphu is the only capital city in the world without any traffic lights? Get to know the area on an orientation experience visiting sites like the textile museum and old clock tower.

Travel to Punakha in the morning crossing Dochula Pass. After a pleasant stop for views enjoy a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang Temple learning about its historical significance. In the afternoon explore the stunning Punakha Dzong.
Accommodation: Bhutanic Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Chimi Lhakhang Visit: Take a short hike to Chime 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.

Take a scenic drive back to Paro this morning with a few stops en route. Upon arrival the group will visit the Paro Dzong as well as the local archery grounds. This evening you'll have free time to wander and indulge as you please.
Accommodation: Rema Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • Paro Orientation Walk: Paro lies at the centre of a valley that is full of ancient sites and buildings. The area is covered with terraced paddy fields, quaint farmhouses scattered throughout the valley and green forests overlooking the Paro Chhu River snaking below. Enjoy an orientation walk of this beautiful place and learn about Bhutanese ancient artefacts and art work.
  • Paro Rinpung Dzong Visit: Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, which means ‘Fortress on a Heap of Jewels”. The original construction of this dzong is believed to have been completed in 1458 and it was restored to its present glory by His Majesty the Third of Bhutan, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, to mark his royal wedding in 1951.
  • Local Archery Grounds Visit : As Bhutan's national sport, a visit to a local archery ground is a must. Watch locals practice or compete with unbelievable accuracy and precision as they hit distant targets.
  • Free Time: Take advantage of free time and visit some of the best sites in Paro like, the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong or Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Maybe head for a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan. There are statues, paintings, sacred masks and costumes all located in a seven-story watchtower.
Optional Experiences
  • Ta Dzong National Museum: The National Museum of Bhutan houses an extensive collection of Bhutanese art, with pieces dating back for centuries.

Enjoy a morning hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). The hike is about 7km and offers a chance to visit 13 holy relics, at a place considered to be one of the most venerated pilgrim sites of the Himalayan world. After finishing the hike you'll have the rest of the evening free to explore more of Paro on your own before one last dinner with the group.
Accommodation: Rema Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
  • 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: Take advantage of free time and visit some of the best sites in Paro like, the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong or Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the two oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Maybe head for a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan. There are statues, paintings, sacred masks and costumes all located in a seven-story watchtower.
Optional Experiences
  • Kyichu Lhakhang Temple Visit: Enjoy a visit to one of Bhutan's oldest and most beautiful temples. Built in the 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang Temple boasts stunning art work inside and throughout the courtyards.

Depart at any time. Airport transfer included. While at the airport, opt to experience a cultural art class at the social enterprise, VAST, a G Adventures-supported studio. Your CEO will help arrange your transfer to the airport and all exit formalities before your journey home.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Optional Experiences
  • VAST Airport Experience: Turn waiting at the airport into an art class! Visit the hands-on art experience at VAST (Voluntary Artists’ Studio Thimphu) Happy Brush Activity Corner in the Paro Airport. The initiative works to nurture the artistic potential of Bhutanese youth by involving youth in community service, while empowering them to explore art as a viable and fulfilling career path. Through different hands-on activities, like painting a traditional mask featured in the festivals and folklore of Bhutan.

Trip Inclusions

  • Explore the sights in old Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.
  • Learn to make Nepalese momos from a group of local women.
  • Search for tigers in Chitwan National Park.
  • Marvel at the mountain landscapes.
  • Visit various dzongs and Buddhist gompas.

  • Your G for Good Moment: Nepalese Dumplings Cooking Demonstration, Kathmandu
  • Your G for Good Moment: Barauli Community Immersion, Royal Chitwan National Park
  • Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
  • Your Local Living Moment: Barauli Community Guesthouse Stay, Royal Chitwan National Park
  • Walk in Patan Durbar Square
  • Sustainable Development Fees
  • Guided tour of Bhaktapur City
  • Nepalese Dumplings Cooking Demonstration
  • Swayambhunath Temple Visit
  • Enjoy a welcome by the Chitwan Community Homestay and a traditional meal
  • Chitwan National Park 4x4 safari
  • Cycling through villages in Chitwan
  • Memorial Chorten & Motithang Takin Preserve visit
  • Tashichho Dzong visit
  • Chimi Lakhang Hike
  • Explore Paro Dzong and Archery grounds
  • Hike to Taktsang Monastery Tiger's Nest
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
  • Private vehicle, 4x4, walking/hiking, flight from Nepal to Bhutan
  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides

  • Hotels (10 Nights), Guesthouse/cottage (2 Nights)
  • Hotel and Community Guesthouse (12nts)

  • 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.

Operator

G Adventures
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.

On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Classic
Trip Style: Classic

Get the best of both worlds with G's Classic trips as your knowledgeable CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads you to iconic highlights and hidden gems, while ample free time lets you discover what excites you most. Enjoy included meals showcasing local flavours, plus opportunities to dive deeper into the food scene independently. Stay in comfortable hotels, authentic homestays, and unique accommodations that capture the spirit of each destination.

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Dates & Pricing USD USD

Sunday 19 Apr 2026 19 Apr 26 Kathmandu
Friday 01 May 2026 01 May 26 Paro
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,229
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Tuesday 21 Apr 2026 21 Apr 26 Kathmandu
Sunday 03 May 2026 03 May 26 Paro
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,229
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Friday 24 Apr 2026 24 Apr 26 Kathmandu
Wednesday 06 May 2026 06 May 26 Paro
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,229
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday 26 Apr 2026 26 Apr 26 Kathmandu
Friday 08 May 2026 08 May 26 Paro
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,229
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Tuesday 28 Apr 2026 28 Apr 26 Kathmandu
Sunday 10 May 2026 10 May 26 Paro
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$4,229
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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