The Ultimate Himalayan Excursion in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan

Drive from Kathmandu to hotel

Your adventure begins as you land in the vibrant city of Kathmandu. Our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to Dwarika’s Hotel near the airport. Dwarika’s is one of the oldest hotels that combines traditional Newari architecture with modern luxury and is ideal for those seeking heritage, comfort and an immersive cultural stay.

Welcome dinner at Nepal's architecturally marvellous hotel

Enjoy a warm welcome dinner in one of the restaurants in the Dwarika’s Hotel.

Fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Today, you begin with a morning flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara, offering stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.

Drive or hike to the mountain town of Dhampus

After getting to Pokhara, you have an option to hike or drive to Dhampus. You have to drive till Phedi to hike up to Dhampus. Embark on a picturesque drive from Pokhara Airport to Dhampus, a charming Gurung village nestled in the foothills of the Annapurna range. The journey winds through lush hills, terraced fields, and traditional villages, offering stunning views of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna peaks. Upon arrival at your lodge, soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere and enjoy a warm Himalayan welcome.

Hike from Dhampus to Australian Camp, and back 3 to 4 hrs

Set off on a picturesque early morning hike from Dhampus to Australian Camp, following a stone-paved trail that winds through lush rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands. The gentle ascent offers stunning panoramic vistas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with the majestic Machhapuchhre standing tall in the distance.

Drive from Dhampus to Pokhara 1 to 1.5 hrs

After completing the hike, you drive from Dhampus to the Lakeside of Pokhara.

Evening stroll at Lakeside and dinner overlooking the lake.

Check-in to your luxury hotel at Lakeside and take an evening stroll along the sidewalk enjoying the vibe. End the day by having dinner overlooking the lake.

Fly from Pokhara to Chitwan 20 mins

After breakfast in the resort, you drive to Pokhara Airport for your flight to Bharatpur. Enjoy a scenic flight from Pokhara, where you get to see various mountain peaks.

Drive to Amaltari 1.5 to 2 hrs

After getting to Bharatpur airport, you drive to Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge in Amaltari, where you can settle in and relax.

Sunset bush walk and sundowner with elephants

In the evening, embark on a sunset bush walk, where you’ll track wildlife on foot, guided by expert naturalists. Cap off the day with a sundowner experience alongside gentle elephants, as you sip your drink and watch the golden hues of the sunset paint the jungle sky.

Jungle safari inside Chitwan National Park

Start your day with an exhilarating jungle safari deep into the heart of Chitwan National Park. Venture into the lush wilderness, where you have the chance to spot the diverse wildlife of Chitwan, including one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bears, spotted deer. This adventure takes you through dense Sal forests, grasslands, and riverbanks, where your guide will share fascinating facts and insights about the ecosystem, wildlife behavior and conservation efforts of Chitwan National Park. The opportunity to track wildlife in their natural habitat will make this jungle safari experience an unforgettable one.

Canoeing river safari 1 to 2 hrs

Begin your day with a peaceful river safari on a traditional dugout canoe, gliding through the calm waters of the Narayani River spotting crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife.

Drive to Chitwan airport

After experiencing the wildlife of Chitwan National Park, you drive to Bharatpur Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu.

Fly to Kathmandu

You take a short yet scenic flight from Bharatpur to Kathmandu, as the landscape changes from lush jungles to rugged hills and terraced fields. Upon arriving in Kathmandu, you drive to Dwarika’s hotel for your night stay.

Fly from Kathmandu to Paro 45 mins

Today, you take one of the most breathtaking flights in terms of views and the overall experience. The spectacular aerial route to Paro from Kathmandu offers magnificent Himalayas including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Kanchenjunga. You see the scenery transform into a different landscape with lush green valleys and monasteries perched on dramatic cliffs. Upon arrival at Paro airport, you feel the serene and spiritual ambience of Bhutan.

Drive from Paro to Thimpu 1 hr

Step into the kingdom of Bhutan by landing at Paro International Airport. Depending on the arrival time, we will have a quick lunch or coffee break in Paro town and continue on a picturesque one-hour drive to Thimphu. At Thimpu, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, lively markets and the pulse of the town. We conclude our day at our hotel in Thimpu. If you arrive early, we take you to Tachogang Lhakhang enroute Thimpu. This spiritual haven pays homage to Thangtong Gyalpo, also known as 'The Iron Bridge Builder’. We walk past the iron suspension bridge and explore the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers.

Thimpu valley excursion

Today, we have a line up of interesting exploration and cultural immersion waiting us including Kuensel Phodrang / Buddha Point – 51.5 meters Shakyamuni Buddha statue and view of Thimphu valley. You can also opt for an hour’s hike around the Buddha. Besides, we also visit Memorial Chorten / Stupa – Congregation of devout Buddhists circumambulating the Chorten from dawn till dusk, Bhutan Postal Museum -make your personalized stamps with your photo and use them to send postcards to your family and friends around the world, Takin Preserve – Takin the national animal of Bhutan, Centenary Farmers Market/Kaja Throm, Craft Bazaar – single line of shops selling traditional made in Bhutan arts and crafts. If time permits, we will also explore Tashi Chho Dzong/ Fortress of Splendid Religion - office of the Golden Throne of the Dragon King.

Drive from Thimpu to Punakha with exploration on the way

Set off on a captivating 2-hour drive to Punakha and Wangdue valleys. Along the way, we catch your breath at Dochula Pass, 3,150 meters high. On clear days, one can witness the awe-inspiring snow-capped Himalayas. We will also explore the 108 chortens, Lobesa market and the famed Chime Lhakhang, the Temple of Fertility. Marvel at the newly renovated Wangdue Dzong and take a leisurely stroll through quaint market pockets.

Explore Punakha (The old capital)

Embark on an enriching 2-hour hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel, treated to captivating valley vistas, terraced paddy fields, and a meandering river. Explore the awe-inspiring Punakha Dzong, a Fortress of Great Bliss, and cross the longest iron suspension bridge on foot. Behold the breathtaking valley from Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, where engaging interactions with English-speaking nuns await. The day wraps up with a comfortable night's stay at your Punakha hotel.

Drive from Punakha to Paro

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive back to Paro. We check-in at the hotel and catch a quick rest.

Explore Paro and visit Paro Dzong

Visit Paro Dzong and meander through the quaint Paro town and the vibrant markets.

Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft) 5 to 6 hrs

Hike to the iconic Takstang - The Tiger's Nest (3139m / 10300 ft) 4 to 5 hrs | 9 kms (5.5 mi) After breakfast, we gear up for an invigorating hike to the most important cultural icon of Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery. The hike is a 3-hour uphill journey rewarded with a 2-hour downhill trek. On the way, we also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple dating back to the 7th century.

Archery and exploration

Later, you have the options to engage in traditional archery for some Bhutanese fun, and delve into the culinary culture with a Bhutanese cooking experience, either learning the craft or creating your own delectable meal.

Traditional hot stone bath

We end our trip with a traditional hot stone bath at a farmhouse in Paro - white round stones picked up from the riversides are roasted in fire until red hot and then immersed in a wooden tub of fresh spring water sprinkled with herbs. These hot stones baths are supposed to be very curative with numerous medicinal and healing properties and has been the practice since the ancient times in Bhutan. We have a farewell dinner with our team at the hotel.

Fly from Paro to Kathmandu

You depart from Paro and take a spectacular flight back to Kathmandu, Nepal. Enjoy the view of Bhutan’s rolling hills and misty pine forests one last time as your plane takes you towards Nepal. After landing in Kathmandu, our team in Nepal takes you to Dwarika’s Hotel for your stay here.

Swayambhunath stupa morning kora

You start your day with a peaceful morning Kora around the Swayambhunath Stupa. This temple is famously known as the Monkey Temple. When you are in Swayambhu, you see monks and local devotees spinning the prayer wheels and praying to the gods for inner peace. Swayambhunath is on a hilltop, so enjoy panoramic views of Kathmandu valley.

Fly from Kathmandu to Chengdu

After having a serene and sacred experience at Swayambhunath, you drive towards the airport for your flight to Chengdu. The flight to Chengdu from Kathmandu is a scenic one, offering views of snow-capped Himalayas. Upon arrival at Chengdu, our team at Chengdu greets you and takes you to your hotel in Chengdu.

Fly to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet Autonomous Region

Tentative flight departure time from Chengdu: 08:00 and arrival in Lhasa: 10:25

Acclimatization, easy exploration around Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Market

You can rest for the day or go walking around for acclimatization. We will have a briefing over dinner.

Explore Potala Palace, and a traditional village near Lhasa

Our sightseeing tour begins with the magnificent Potala Palace. Its layered structure houses intricate chambers adorned with sacred art.

Explore Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery

After lunch, we continue our tour to Drepung Monastery which showcases exquisite architecture and peaceful courtyards. Later at Sera Monastery, we experience a tranquil ambiance against the backdrop of beautiful murals.

Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok lake

Today, you'll drive to the stunning Yamdrok Lake in Tibet, passing over the high Kampa La (4750m) and Karo La (5010m) passes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and turquoise waters. Enjoy breathtaking views, take beautiful photos, and explore this sacred lake, believed to be a goddess in transformation. Continue your drive to Gyantse to visit the 15th-century Pelkhor Monastery, renowned for its vivid murals, clay sculptures, and the coexistence of three Tibetan Buddhist sects (Gelug, Sakya, and Kagyu). If time allows, explore the chapels of the iconic Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city, where you'll arrive in the late afternoon.

Drive from hotel to airport

Fly out of Lhasa