The Discovery of Bhutan
At the gates of the last Himalayan kingdom, where dragons and spirituality dance with snow-capped peaks.
Duration
13 days
From
€1,860/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Between culture, spirituality and wild nature, set off to discover an incredible country that has managed to preserve its traditions. Explore the must-see Paro, Thimphu and Punakha and learn more about Buddhism. Cross desert landscapes surrounded by snow-capped peaks reaching over 7,000 m. Breathe the pure air of this country before returning to Népal and continuing your journey by visiting the Kathmandu valley.
Along your itinerary, you will discover monasteries perched in the mountains, historic fortresses called dzongs and villages where ancestral traditions still rhythm daily life. Bhutan offers a unique immersion in a preserved kingdom, where spirituality accompanies every landscape. Between green valleys, pine forests and encounters with a warm population, this journey reveals all the authenticity of a country attached to its heritage and its harmony with nature.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Welcome and assistance by our representative at Tribhuvan International Airport. A short drive takes you to your hotel. The welcome drink will be an opportunity to present the program and review the necessary documents for this trip.
Visit of Historic Sites in the Kathmandu Valley
Visit of the main sites in the Katmandu valley
The Swayambunath stupa surrounded by several other temples and erected on a hill overlooking Katmandu.
Visit of the famous Boudhanath stupa, one of the main Buddhist sanctuaries in the region surrounded by numerous monasteries and Tibetan shops.
Located south of Katmandu, Patan, the second largest city in the valley, is what was once called Lalitpur, the Beautiful City. It is considered to be the cradle of arts and Newar architecture. Patan is famous for its crafts and worked metals, which will make wonderful souvenirs.
Hindu Temple and Royal City
Your day begins with a visit to Pashupatinath, one of the most sacred temples in South Asia, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The place is similar to Varanasi (Benares) in India.
You then proceed to Bhaktapur, an ancient medieval city and former royal palace, inhabited largely by Newars. Bhaktapur contains squares and historical monuments of great artistic value.
Heading to Chitwan!
Activities in the jungle
Organize your day as you wish. Your hotel offers you a choice of different activities such as boat trips down the river, ideal for spotting crocodiles, tropical birds and rhinoceroses, safari by jeep, mountain bike or on foot, perfect for having a chance to see a tiger!
Flight Kathmandu - Paro
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular you will ever experience in your lifetime. You fly over the Himalayan range, enjoy the spectacular view before beginning your descent towards the kingdom of Bhutan. Bhutan's first gift to you, upon disembarking from the plane, will be the fresh and pure mountain air.
Then, drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, with a stop along the way at Chuzom, at the confluence of the Thimphu and Paro rivers. Three different styles of stupas: Tibetan, Nepalese and Bhutanese adorn this confluence.
Capital of Bhutan and political, religious and commercial center, Thimphu is a unique city. It blends modernity and ancient traditions.
In the evening, take a stroll through the center of Thimphu.
Visit of Bhutan's Capital
You visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). It houses one of the largest Buddha statues in the country, built in bronze and gilded with gold (51.5 m).
You continue your visit with Changangkha Lhakhang. This temple, located above Thimphu's centre, was built in the 12th century by lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo on a ridge overlooking the city. Local parents traditionally come here to obtain auspicious names for their newborns or a blessing from the protective deity 'Tamdrin'.
You go to visit the Takin reserve. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drukpa Kuenley, and is found only in Bhutan and neighbouring regions.
After lunch, visits in the Thimphu valley.
End the day with a visit to Trashichhoedzong or "the fortress of the glorious religion". It is one of the most impressive buildings in the region.
Free evening in Thimphu city centre. Explore the bazaar where you will discover local craftsmanship and beautiful traditional arts of Bhutan.
Discovering Bhutan!
After breakfast, your driver takes you to the Dochu-la pass (3,088 m). You stop briefly here to admire the view and the chorten, the mani wall and prayer flags. If the sky is clear, you can see the snow-capped peaks: Masagang (7,158 m), Kangphugang (7,170 m), Zongphugang (7,060 m), Gangkar puensum, Bhutan's highest peak at 7,497 m…
You arrive in Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan.
In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong or "Palace of Great Bliss", built at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. This majestic dzong was the religious and administrative centre of Bhutan. It features a six-storey tower adorned with a golden dome. Inside you admire sumptuous courtyards and religious statues that evoke the historical and spiritual depth of the place.
After exploring Punakha's town centre, embark on a short walking excursion towards Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a ridge surrounded by magnificent rice fields. Also known as the fertility temple, it is widely believed that couples who do not have children and want one, if they pray in this temple, will have one within the year.
Excursion around Punakha
A beautiful hike takes you to the majestic Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten (approximately 2 hours of walking), which was built to eliminate negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in a changing world. The Chorten overlooks the high Punakha Valley and offers stunning views of the Mo Chhu and the mountain peaks of Gasa and beyond.
After lunch, visit Changangkha Lhakhang. The gleaming temple houses 14-foot bronze statues.
Then travel to the village of Talo. This beautiful village (2800 m altitude) is renowned for its cleanliness among Punakha villages. Also visit Talo Sangnacholing which offers a majestic view of the surrounding villages.
The Tiger's Nest
After breakfast, excursion to the Taktshang Monastery (approx. 5 hours): one of Bhutan's most famous monasteries perched on the edge of a cliff 900 m above the void. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tiger and meditated in this monastery which bears the name of "tiger's nest". This site was recognized as a sacred place and visited by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and is now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. The hike to the monastery constitutes a magnificent half-day excursion.
On returning to the hotel, you will visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. The construction of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.
Flight Paro – Kathmandu
Another hour of flight. Chance to see the Himalayan mountain ranges if you didn't have the opportunity on departure. Treat yourself by buying local souvenirs, or why not take a detour to the spa?
You can also participate in the creation of traditional souvenirs such as the Nepali Khukuri knife or wood carving with local artisans or cooking - MoMo or Thakali with locals. (Time: 2-4 hours, to be booked 2 days in advance. Prices vary depending on activities).
We can organize a flight over the Himalayan Chain one morning (6:30 AM) with an additional fee.
Good comeback and see you next time!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Travel insurance: cancellation / repatriation / trip interruption / baggage loss
- International flights: KTM-PARO-KTM, approximately USD 500
- Visa fees 30 USD for 15 Days
- Personal expenses: drinks, souvenirs, phone, spa, etc.
- Tips
- Meals outside of breakfasts in Kathmandu.
Included
- 5 nights in Kathmandu in a 3-star hotel with breakfast included
- 2 nights in Chitwan all-inclusive resort
- 5 nights in a 3-star hotel in Bhutan
- Airport-hotel transfers in private vehicle
- All transfers mentioned in the program in private vehicle
- Kathmandu - Chitwan - Kathmandu Flights
- Guidance by an English-speaking Nepalese guide for cultural tours in Nepal
- English-speaking guide support for cultural visits and trekking in Bhutan
- Guidance by an English-speaking naturalist in Chitwan
- Activities in Chitwan
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Nepal for a tourist stay. Since entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Nepal, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into the country and must have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist visa
Unlike some destinations, Nepal does not grant visa exemptions to nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada. A tourist visa is mandatory to enter the territory.
This visa can be obtained in two ways:
On arrival (visa on arrival): available at the main entry points, notably Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and certain land border crossings. It is strongly recommended to complete the application form online before departure to facilitate procedures on site.
Online before departure: via the official online visa system of the Nepalese government (online visa application), allowing you to obtain prior authorization to present upon arrival.
Official rates are as follows:
15 days: 30 USD
30 days: 50 USD
90 days: 125 USD
Payment is generally made in cash (USD, EUR, or other accepted currencies) or by credit card depending on the entry points. It is advisable to have US dollars in cash for payment on site.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward journey),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.
Online arrival form
Before your arrival, it is recommended to complete the online arrival form available on the official portal of the Nepalese government. This form allows you to provide immigration authorities with:
passport information
flight details
the address of your first accommodation in Nepal
A digital confirmation or a reference code may be requested when passing through immigration or at the visa issuance counter upon arrival.
Special permits for trekking areas
Certain regions of Nepal require additional permits in addition to the tourist visa:
the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System): mandatory for most trekking itineraries,
national park or conservation area permits (e.g., Sagarmatha for Everest, Annapurna Conservation Area),
restricted zone permits for certain specific destinations such as Mustang, Dolpo, or Manaslu.
These permits are generally obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara from the relevant offices.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Nepal, except in case of arrival from a country at risk of yellow fever. However, several vaccinations are strongly recommended by health authorities:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
diphtheria-tetanus-poliomyelitis (DTP),
rabies (especially for extended stays or in remote areas),
Japanese encephalitis (depending on areas and season).
Preventive antimalarial treatment may be recommended for certain low-altitude regions (Terai). It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay, as well as their own tourist visa.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Nepal in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be covered for emergency assistance, repatriation and foreign medical expenses.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the full policy detailing all coverage and claims reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claims reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Yes, a tourist visa is required, issued upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or at land borders (USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, USD 125 for 90 days). A valid passport for at least 6 months beyond entry and an identity photo are required.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, plan between 110 and 190 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Himalayan treks require a dedicated budget (permits, porters, lodges).
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Kathmandu Valley
Himalayan pathfinder, based in Katmandou (Naxal)
Nepal is a country that naturally teaches patience and humility. Even a simple trip can become a very profound experience there.
— Nirmala
