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  • Bhutan & Nepal: Himalayan Kingdoms Hiking
Overview

Go on an Epic Journey from Bhutan to Nepal with Boundless Journeys

Join Boundless Journeys for Himalayan Kingdoms Hiking, an awe-inspiring adventure that combines the highlights of the Dragon Kingdom — Bhutan — with a five-day Nepal hiking tour through the foothills of the Annapurna Mountains. This is truly an epic journey through Himalayan landscapes, infused with mountain cultures, beautiful vistas, and a revitalizing trek amid the highest mountains in the world.

While in Bhutan, you’ll explore the monasteries and fortresses of this ancient kingdom and discover the unique Bhutanese culture. In Nepal, jaw-dropping mountain scenery, terraced hillsides, beautiful forests, and friendly villagers greet you on our cultural trek. There’s even an opportunity to take a flight across the Himalayan range past the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest. With Boundless Journeys’ Himalayan Kingdoms Nepal and Bhutan tour, you’ll experience the best of two complementary worlds.

Boundless Journeys specializes in all-inclusive adventure tours around the world. Discover your next travel destination among our Asia tours.

What Our Guests Have To Say About This Tour

Spectacular

★★★★★
5 5 1
We compared to Backroads and decided Boundless Journeys might be the better of the two. Tiger's Nest was spectacular. And, the views and closeness to the Annapurna range was heavenly.

Loved our trip

★★★★★
5 5 1
We loved our trip to Bhutan and Nepal. Both countries were very different and I loved the combination of both of them. Our guides were excellent and very knowledgeable.

Outstanding guides

★★★★★
5 5 1
I highly recommend this tour company to my friends, great cultural and activity experiences throughout. As a hiker i am always happy to see additional hikes included in the itinerary. This trip was exceptional partially due to the small group. Both guides had outstanding knowledge although personally i found the Nepal guide a little difficult to understand but his enthusiasm was outstanding and since it was primarily hiking it was not an issue.

Fabulous

★★★★★
5 5 1
Trip was fabulous. We were very fortunate to have an extra small group and the fit was perfect. We all got along well. Guides were exceptional!

Outstanding

★★★★★
5 5 1
Dwarika Hotel was outstanding!

Flawless Trip!

★★★★★
5 5 1
As septuagenarians, trekking in the Himalayas was a transformative experience, both mentally and physically. As life-long travelers, but first-time tour-goers, choosing Boundless Journeys was serendipitous--every detail was planned to ensure a flawless trip. We learned a great deal about Buddhism from Sangay, and visiting the monasteries; Namgel was filled with interesting information about the different peoples of Nepal--Gurung, Sherpa, Newwari, etc. Pradeep knew alot about everything and communicated it very well. All three guides were very professional, yet personable. We could not imagine better guides.

Exceptional Care

★★★★☆
4 5 1
Every aspect of our travels was carefully arranged and the guides on the ground took exceptional care of us. The US office was very helpful with any questions we had prior to the trip

Top three of all time

★★★★★
5 5 1
Over the years I have traveled and hiked in 34 countries. It takes something special to impress me. The cultural immersion and the hiking on this trip were both magnificent. I would rate this in my Top 3 trips of all time.

Priceless

★★★★★
5 5 1
A priceless opportunity to see a remote and in many ways unspoiled part of our planet and to return with life-changing new perspectives and knowledge, and memories of our adventures together there.

Winnig Formula

★★★★★
5 5 1
Boundless Journeys provides you with the right information to be prepared for your trip and then provides all the means -- excellent guides, accommodations and activities -- to have a wonderful experience. We fell in love with Bhutan and Nepal through this winning formula.

Magical

★★★★☆
4 5 1
Bhutan countryside is magical and the people of Nepal have retained an openness and welcoming spirit that seems to sometimes be lacking in our culture.

Excellent Trip!

★★★★☆
4 5 1
Bhutan & Nepal were amazing and exhausting. Our guides were knowledgeable and very caring. I would recommend Wangchuk and Mekh in a heartbeat. Our driver in Bhutan, Lopsang and our porters in Nepal took great care of us as well!

Outstanding Trip

★★★★★
5 5 1
Our guides were invaluable! Leki especially made the Buddhist shrines understandable, and he introduced us to a senior teacher at a monastery, and brought us to a farmhouse where we danced and did archery. Nepal was easier for me because we weren't driving as much. We walked at our own pace and the days were fun, the lodges very hospitable, the hot meals much appreciated.

Thank you so much!

★★★★★
5 5 1
The guides mentioned that they like Boundless Journeys because you include many interesting activities that other companies do not. Both guides were outstanding!

Many wonderful experiences

★★★★☆
4 5 1
We were very impressed by the reliability of everyone who had a part in making our trip work: connections seamless, staff at all locations were caring and really appeared to care about our welfare and that we have a good experience in their city or country. The guides sincerely shared all kinds of info, games, books, experiences. The guides presented lots of unexpected delightful surprises such as walking in rice fields, serving picnic lunches, searching for birds, etc. Restaurants chosen were funky, elegant, unusual – an undo variety. Thank you for the many wonderful experiences!

Exceeded our expectations!

★★★★★
5 5 1
We had a superb experience. Boundless Journeys planned and executed an amazing journey for us. The cultures and nature we were exposed to were delightful, educational and simply amazing. Our guides were topnotch and became our friends on the journey. They were well educated, knew their countries well and always attended to our needs. The entire trip exceeded our expectations!

Outstanding Guides

★★★★★
5 5 1
What really made this trip stand out was the extremely knowledgeable and professional guides we had. They really made these two countries come alive for us, and we learned so much about the history, culture, people, economy, eco-systems, and traditions of each country. The guides were really tuned in to our group's needs and they went out of their way to exceed our expectations.

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Itinerary &
Accommodations

Itinerary & Accommodations

Day 1

Arrival in Bhutan; Transfer to Thimphu

  • Activity Overview: Walking
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours

Welcome to Bhutan! We land in Paro at Bhutan's only international airport. We are met by our local guide and transferred to Thimphu, home of the royal family. Before becoming Bhutan's official national capital in 1961, Thimphu was a simple, rural farming valley. Small and secluded, it is unlike any other world capital. The city is quiet, and may be the only capital in the world without a traffic light.

Our exploration of Thimphu depends on flight arrival times and we may visit the National Textile Museum, the Heritage Museum, or the Giant Buddha above town, giving us some excellent views of the Thimphu Valley.

Accommodations
Hotel Druk

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city and within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and main market. This beautifully decorated hotel provides all the necessary comforts and amenities.

Day 2

Cheri Goemba & The Choki School of Arts

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on local paths and trails
  • Activity Level: Easy to moderate
  • Activity Length: Approximately 2 hours (3 miles) with 1,300’ elevation gain and loss (highest elevation: 9,186’); additional optional hiking available

Our hike today begins at a small village near the boundary of Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest protected area in the country. The area is home to several endangered species, including: the takin, snow leopard, blue sheep, tiger, red panda, and the Himalayan black bear. The trail climbs steadily to Cheri Gompa, a small monastery perched on the hill with a view of the Thimphu Valley. After touring the monastery, we descend on the same route back to our tour vehicle where we drive home of the Choki School of Arts. The Choki School provides free, skills-related education in the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan to Bhutanese children who are unable to complete their formal education.

Before dinner, we speak with a local expert to learn more about Bhutan's unique culture and its remarkable Gross National Happiness concept.

Accommodations
Hotel Druk

Hotel Druk
Thimpu, Bhutan

Hotel Druk is located in the center of the city and within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and main market. This beautifully decorated hotel provides all the necessary comforts and amenities.

Day 3

Transfer to Punakha (approximately 4 hours*); Temple of the Divine Madman

  • Activity Overview: Walking on local paths
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours with 131’ elevation gain (highest elevation: 4,921’)

Today we transfer to the Punakha Valley, our home for the next two nights. The road to Punakha crosses the Dochula Pass (10,230'), offering a great view of the eastern Himalayan mountains.

On the road to Punakha, we stop in a small village where a short walk brings us to Chime Lhakang, a temple dedicated to the Lama Drukpa Kunley. Drukpa Kunley is one of Bhutan's favorite saints, and is more commonly known as the "Divine Madman." He traveled throughout Bhutan and Tibet using songs, humor, and outrageous behavior to dramatize his teachings, believing that the formality of the clergy and social conventions were keeping people from understanding true Buddhism.

Accommodations
Dhumra Farm Resort

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extraordinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

Day 4

Khamsung Yuley Namgyel Temple to Punakha Dzong

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on local paths and trails
  • Activity Level: Easy to moderate
  • Activity Length: 3-4 hours with 656’ elevation gain (highest elevation: 4,921’)

We begin today's hike by first ascending a series of switchbacks to the Khamsung Yuley Namgyel Temple. From this modern temple, we are afforded grand views of the Mo Chu River Valley below. We then descend from the temple and follow a well-worn path down the valley through rice fields and small villages. Along the way we are rewarded with stunning views — the terraced rice paddies providing an exotic backdrop to the river below.

After enjoying a picnic lunch along the river, we continue our walk to the Punakha Dzong. Constructed in 1637, the Punakha Dzong was the second of Bhutan's dzongs and for many years it served as the seat of the government. Today it is the home to Bhutan's spiritual leader, the Chief Abbot Je Khempo, who resides here with 1,000 monks during the winter months.

Following our hike, we have the special opportunity to visit the Nalanda Buddhist Institute, where we meet the resident monks and learn about their lives.

Accommodations
Dhumra Farm Resort

Dhumra Farm Resort
Punakha, Bhutan

Nestled amidst the green hills with an enviable view of the Punakha Dzong, Dhumra Farm Resort has been built with nature in mind, from the local building materials to the farm’s organic produce cooked in the traditional earthen oven. This small, boutique hotel is committed to providing guests with an extraordinary and authentic Bhutanese experience.

Day 5

Transfer to Paro (approximately 4 hours*); Visit Kichyu Lakhang, the Paro Dzong and Bhutan’s National Museum

  • Activity Overview: Walking on dirt roads and local paths
  • Activity Level: Easy
  • Activity Length: 1-2 hours

Today we return to Paro, catching another glimpse of the mighty Himalayas over the Dochula Pass. Upon our arrival in Paro, we visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Kyichu Lhakhang, meaning "twin temples," is believed to have been built in 659 AD by King Songtsen of Tibet, and reflects the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. The temple is one of 108 that were built throughout the Himalayas in one day in an effort to subdue a mighty ogress; it is still believed to hold her left foot in place.

We then make our way to the National Museum. The museum's collection includes ancient artifacts, weapons, antique thangkha (painted or embroidered religious pictures), textiles, and stamps.

Finally, we head to the valley's magnificent Rinpung Dzong. If we are fortunate, we may have the opportunity to explore within the dzong's mighty walls. However, if the Administrative Body is in session, we must admire from the outside.

Accommodations
Tenzinling Hotel

Tenzinling Hotel
Paro, Bhutan

Tenzinling Hotel is situated close to the popular sites in Paro and features beautiful traditional Bhutanese architecture. Guests can enjoy modern amenities in a traditional setting, while dining on cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients. A spa and cocktail lounge allow for relaxation at the end of the day in a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 6

Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery Hike

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous
  • Activity Length: 4-5 hours (4.5 miles) with 1,650’ elevation gain and loss (highest elevation: 10,171’).4-5 hours (4.5 miles) with 1,650’ elevation gain (highest elevation: 10,171’)

This morning, we hike to the famous cliff-side hermitage called Taktsang — "Tiger's Nest" — a monastic retreat built into a sheer cliff face high above the Paro Valley. Our hike begins on the valley floor and is a steady uphill climb on a wide hiking trail that switchbacks through pine forests, with glimpses of Tiger's Nest along the way. We pass water-powered prayer wheels and mani stones, as well as a shrine where a high lama was supposedly born — all reminders that for many, this is not just a hike, but a spiritual pilgrimage. Legend has it that the Tibetan Buddhist saint, Padmasambhava, flew across the Himalayas on the back of a tiger and landed here, bringing Buddhism to Bhutan.

We return to the valley floor, where we enjoy a trail side picnic lunch before heading back to our hotel. We have some time this afternoon to unwind and relax after our hike, or perhaps stroll the Paro market before dinner.

Accommodations
Tenzinling Hotel

Tenzinling Hotel
Paro, Bhutan

Tenzinling Hotel is situated close to the popular sites in Paro and features beautiful traditional Bhutanese architecture. Guests can enjoy modern amenities in a traditional setting, while dining on cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients. A spa and cocktail lounge allow for relaxation at the end of the day in a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 7

Fly from Paro, Bhutan to Pokhara, Nepal (via Kathmandu)

  • Activity Overview: Flight to Nepal
  • Activity Level: Easy

An early morning departure from Paro brings us to Kathmandu, where we begin the second half of our epic journey. Upon landing in Kathmandu, we are met by our guide and then transfer to the domestic airport for our flight to Pokhara (2,712 ft), the rural capital of western Nepal. Pokhara is one of the most popular destinations in the country due to being the starting point for many trekking expeditions into the mountains.

Accommodations
Temple Tree Resort

Temple Tree Resort
Pokhara, Nepal

A deluxe hotel located within walking distance from Pokhara’s bustling lakeside, this boutique property combines distinctive architecture of the region with western standards and amenities. The hotel has a pool, beautiful gardens, and rooms tastefully decorated with Nepali and Tibetan art. Enjoy intimate dining and contemporary cuisine at the Bay Leaf restaurant, or a cocktail at the casual Island Bar. Temple Tree is a great place to pamper yourself either before or after a trek in the mountains.

Day 8

Trek Pokhara to Lamkhet

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Activity Length: 3-4 hours (approximately 4.4 miles) with 1,540’ elevation gain and 1,150’ elevation loss (highest elevation: 3,470’)

In the morning we drive about one hour to the starting point of our trek. Today's hike follows a ridgeline in the lower foothills of the Annapurnas, with surrornding views of the Pokhara Valley.

The trail eventually descends into the Modi River valley, our home for the night (3,470'). The lodge here has magnificent views of the sacred and still unclimbed Fishtail Mountain, or Machhapuchhre, as it is locally known. We enjoy lunch at the lodge, followed by an optional walk to the nearby village of Birethanti. Those who prefer can independently explore the river valley surrounding the lodge.

Accommodations
Sanctuary Lodge

Sanctuary Lodge
Birethanti, Nepal

The Sanctuary lodge is situated near the tranquil village of Birethanti along the Modi River, offering stunning views of the sacred Fishtail Mountain, Machupuchure, in the distance. The property features 18 simple rooms with ensuite baths and touches of local style. You may unwind on the open grounds over a cup of Nepali tea, or explore the nearby village on foot.

Day 9

Trek Lamkhet to Ghandruk

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate to strenuous
  • Activity Length: 5-6 hours (approximately 6 miles) with 3,000’ elevation gain (highest elevation: 6,600’)

After breakfast we leave the lodge, walking through outlying farms following the Modi River valley. Soon we begin to ascend out of the valley and up toward the mountains. We take a relaxing pace, stopping for refreshments en route with spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Our trail passes through small hamlets, terraced rice fields and sub-tropical forests, offering glimpses of life in the mountains. We arrive at Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk (6,600') in time for a late lunch, and have time this afternoon to enjoy the magnificent close-up views of the surrounding mountains.

Accommodations
Himalaya Lodge

Himalaya Lodge
Ghandruk, Nepal

Located at the highest point of the tour at approximately 6,600’, this former mountain home is perched over the ancient village of Ghandruk. The Annapurna Range is in full view from each of the 11 rooms, which have ensuite baths and are decorated with local cultural motifs. You may explor Ghandruk by foot or ascend the hills above the lodge to see the impressive terraced fields and towering Himalayan peaks above.

Day 10

Trek Ghandruk to Landruk

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Activity Length: Approximately 4 hours (3.5 miles) with 3,000’ elevation loss and 1,534’ elevation gain (highest elevation: 6,600’)

En route along our trek to Landruk, we explore the mountain village of Ghandruk, once a major recruitment center for the famous Gurkha soldiers. The women of Ghandruk maintain a local industry of weaving traditional Nepalese rugs.

Departing from Ghandruk, the trail descends steeply to the banks of the Modi River. Here, you'll be at the base of the cliffs where the famed honey hunters of Nepal climb on ropes to collect the honey from the wild honey bees. You'll then cross a suspension bridge to the opposite banks of the Modi, from where it will take us about an hour to trek up a switchback trail (with steps) to reach the village of Landruk. Landruk affords more glorious views of the Annapurna range.

Following lunch, you may choose to explore Landruk before settling into to La Bee Lodge and enjoying a well-deserved rest.

Accommodations
La Bee Lodge

La Bee Lodge
Landruk, Nepal

La Bee lodge is the newest lodge in the region, located in Landruk, a typical village of the Gurung community who are known as the famous Gurkha soldiers. La Bee has 12 rooms featuring local designs and affords glorious views of the Annapurna range. Explore the nearby cliffs dramatically rising from the Modi River, also known for the famed honey hunters of Nepal.

Day 11

Trek Landruk to Dhampus

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Activity Length: 5-6 hours (approximately 7 miles) with 1,065’ elevation gain and 1,195’ elevation loss (highest elevation: 6,889’)

This morning our trail enters a sub-tropical forest full of magnificent flora, including tree orchids, rhododendrons and magnolias. After approximately an hour, we arrive at the village of Tolka. We then ascend to a ridge, passing through the village of Pothana, where Tibetan traders live and sell their souvenirs. We arrive at Basanta Lodge, our home for the night, in time for lunch.

Later this afternoon, we have the option to hike to the old village of Dhampus (4,920'), or to remain at the lodge, where sweeping views of the entire Annapurna Range are ours to enjoy.

Accommodations
Basanta Lodge

Basanta Lodge
Dhampus, Nepal

This simple lodge is perched on a ridge overlooking the beautiful Phedi and Mardi Valleys and the span of the Annapurna range to the north. The property features 8 rooms with ensuite baths, providing a comfortable respite after trekking. From the lodge you may explore the old village of Dhampus, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of its location.

Day 12

Dhampus to Pokhara; Fly to Kathmandu

  • Activity Overview: Hiking on trails
  • Activity Level: Moderate
  • Activity Length: Approximateyl 2 hours (1.6 miles) with 1,950’ elevation loss (highest elevation: 4,920’)

The trekking portion of our journey ends this morning, as we depart along the ridge, descending through wooded hillsides and terraced farmland to the valley floor. It is here that we meet our vehicle for the drive to the Pokhara airport to catch our flight to Kathmandu.

Upon arriving in Kathmandu, we are transferred to the five-star Dwarika's Heritage Hotel. This afternoon we have the option to venture to Patan Durbar Square, Boundanath Stuppa or Pashupatinath temple, each significant sites for Buddhists and Hindus residing in the city.  We will conclude our day enjoying a celebratory dinner, bidding a final farewell to Nepal.

Accommodations
Dwarika's Heritage Hotel

Dwarika's Heritage Hotel
Kathmandu, Nepal

Dwarikas is a five-star heritage hotel, espousing Newari-style architecture and Nepalese charm and hospitality. It is well-located near the famous Pashupatinath and Boudanath Temples, as well as the international airport. Unwind over live music at the fusion bar or dine at the famous Krishnapan restaurant, featuring the best in contemporary Nepali cuisine. Choose to relax at the swimming pool or treat yourself to a traditional ayurvedic treatment at the Pancha Kosha Himalayan spa.

Day 13

Departure from Kathmandu

  • Activity Overview: Mt. Everest Flight (optional)
  • Activity Level: Easy

After an early morning breakfast, we have the opportunity to experience one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. An optional flight (not included in cost) departs Kathmandu and flies east along the Himalayas, giving us eye-level views of the highest peaks on earth, including Mt. Everest. After the flight, we return to the hotel where we say good-bye before continuing to the airport for our homeward journey.

PLEASE NOTE:
Druk Air, the National Airline of Bhutan does not typically release their flight schedules until a few months prior to departures. Our dates have been set to coincide with the historical schedule for the flights from Bhutan to Nepal. While we do not anticipate any change to this schedule from year to year, it does occasionally occur. In the event that the schedule changes in such a way to affect our itinerary, we will adjust our trip accordingly. The first and last days of the trip will remain the same; however, it will most likely mean that we will be required to stay either one more or less day in Bhutan.

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary due to weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these or the order visited should the need arise.

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Dates &
Prices

Dates And Prices

2025
Trip Length

13 Days

Trip Dates

Mar 26-Apr 7, 2025

Oct 12-24, 2025

Oct 26-Nov 7, 2025

2025 Land Cost

From $7,195 Per Person


Internal Airfare

$795 Per Person

Bangkok-Paro-Kathmandu; subject to change

Single Supplement

First single reserved:$595

Additional:$1,095

See single supplement policy below.

Pricing Notes

MAKE IT PRIVATE

Call for pricing: 1-800-941-8010 or email info@boundlessjourneys.com

 

What's Included

  • Expert leadership
  • All accommodations
  • All meals
  • Local wine and beer with included dinners
  • All transportation during the tour (including internal flight in Nepal)
  • All activities as noted in the itinerary
  • Services of expert camp and lodge staff
  • Bhutan visa
  • Explorers Club savings on your next scheduled, small-group trip (conditions apply)

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: Accommodations are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability.

Single Supplement for Scheduled Group Departures. If you reserve at least 120 days prior to departure, you may be eligible for a reduced or free single supplement. This is generally limited to the first one or two solo travelers to reserve, and the reduction is outlined in the pricing for each trip. Free or reduced single supplements are not combinable with other offers or promotions.

If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 120 days ahead and request a roommate but one is not available, you will receive a $500 reduction from the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary for your specific trip).

Single Supplement for Custom Tours. Custom Tour prices are generally based on two or more participants; therefore, single supplements for “solo” Custom Tours will vary and are available upon request.

What To
Expect

What To Expect

Physical Activity

Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Himalayan Kingdoms Hiking is rated 3, moderate, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks and hikes for the first part of this trip are easy to moderate day hikes, generally from 2-5 hours in length with minimal vehicle support. During the Nepal trekking portion of the trip (days 8-12), hikes are from 3-6 hours in length with no vehicle support. Elevation gains and losses vary from approximately 500'-3,000' in one day. A few days involve long drives on narrow, winding roads.

Meeting Point

Paro, Bhutan

Departure Point

Kathmandu, Nepal

Traveling To and From

Most Convenient Airport for Arrival:
Bangkok International Airport, Bangkok, Thailand (airport code BKK)

Most Convenient Airport for Departure:
Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, Nepal (airport code KTM)

Meeting Time and Place:
Your Boundless Journeys guide will meet you at the Paro, Bhutan airport upon the arrival of your flight from Bangkok (other regional airports upon request). Please be sure to be at the Druk Air (national airline of Bhutan) check-in counter at the Bangkok International Airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled flight on Day 1 of our trip. The airline tickets for your flight from Bangkok to Bhutan will be purchased for you in advance by Boundless Journeys.

Departure Time and Place:
Kathmandu airport on the final morning, after breakfast. You can book your return flight anytime on this day, allowing for time to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours in advance of your flight. If you are taking the Everest scenic flight, then you will need to book your flight home after 2pm.

Our Trek in Nepal

Our trekking route is moderate and we follow a leisurely pace. The route in the foothills of the Annapurnas is carefully planned to take advantage of amazing mountain scenery and charming lodges. Each morning after breakfast we set out at about 8:30 a.m., stopping mid-morning for tea, and then continuing on until our midday stop for lunch. The trails are generally in good condition and many are made from inlaid stones, including steep steps at times. Time spent on the trail will average 3-6 hours per day, with plenty of time to stop along the way. Porters will carry our luggage, and all you need to carry is a daypack with extra layers, your camera, water, and lunch.

Weather

Bhutan

March

High: 63
Low: 40

April

High: 67
Low: 41

November

High: 64
Low: 41

Nepal

March

High: 78
Low: 53

April

High: 86
Low: 59

November

High: 69
Low: 49

When to Go

Bhutan and Nepal are generally delightful for hiking in the spring and fall. The driest weather and clearest skies are typically in October and November. Beautiful flowers are in bloom, and you will encounter fewer travelers in the months of March and April.

The Altitude

Bhutan
Our trip begins in Thimphu, which is situated at 7,500 feet, in the foothills of the Himalayas. After our first two nights here we move to the Punakha Valley, which offers a relatively low elevation of approximately 4,300 feet. Our third hotel, in Paro is at approximately 7,300 feet. Our walks and hikes in Bhutan will take place at elevations from 4,300 feet to approximately 10,000 feet. There is time to move at a comfortable pace, allowing ourselves to adjust to the mountain air. Keeping well hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effects of altitude that you may feel.

Nepal
In spite of being among the highest peaks in the world, we will not be trekking at a high elevation, and the elevations you will experience on this trip are not extreme. Kathmandu is at 4,500', Pokhara about 3,080', and during the trek elevations will range from 3,000' to 6,600'.

Accommodations

Accommodations include standard hotels in Bhutan, deluxe hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and privately run lodges on the Annapurna trek. All with private baths. We have done our best to select well-located properties that reflect the character and culture of each region.

Accommodations in Nepal:
We stay at deluxe hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara and during the trekking portion of our trip we are in mountain lodges, which are the very best accommodations on the Annapurna circuit. The lodges are simple and rustic, but fit well with the environment. They have private bathrooms, two twin beds in each room (which can be pushed together upon request), and electricity.

Accommodations in Bhutan:
Accommodations in Bhutan are somewhat basic and this itinerary includes a cobmination of the standard and deluxe hotel options available in Bhutan. Although the hotels in Bhutan cannot be compared to international standards, they are comfortable and offer all necessary facilities. We believe that any inconveniences due to these modest accommodations are far outweighed by the unforgettable experience of visiting Bhutan.

*If you prefer to stay in luxury hotels in Bhutan, please contact us to discuss a private journey.

Confirming hotels in Bhutan: Due to the unique tourism policy in Bhutan, we are unable to confirm which hotels we will be using until four weeks prior to departure. The accommodations listed will most likely be what we can expect, but may alter due to availability.

When to Reserve

It is important to reserve your trip early, as the airlines going into Bhutan will only accept reservations with the full payment of the ticket. Therefore we are unable to hold group seats in advance of reservations. Seats can only be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit, as well as the payment of $725 for these flights. Please contact our office with any questions regarding these important policies.

Development in Bhutan

Although visiting Bhutan in many ways is like stepping back in time and has been a longtime favorite of Boundless Journeys' travelers for this reason, it is important to understand that this evolving society is also eager to keep pace in the modern world. While the government is approaching the development of their country with a sensitivity towards preserving the environment and culture, you can still expect to encounter some of the less positive signs of modernization. Some examples include: road construction projects that may hinder driving or cause noise and dust; litter in developed areas; and begging. We ask you to visit Bhutan with an open mind and leave any rigid expectations about the pristine nature of the country behind. It is
important to embrace what you see and experience without judgment and recognize that Bhutan, just as any country, is struggling to be a part of this complex and rapidly changing world. We are confident that with this attitude, the Bhutan you experience will be a fascinating and memorable place.

Cuisine

Bhutanese and Nepali dishes borrow elements of Indian and Chinese cuisine, however they are also unique. One of the most distinguishing features of Bhutanese cuisine is the ubiquitous chili. Ema datse, a dish made with chilis and cheese, is a spicy favorite. Some excellent non-spicy options include kewa datse (potatoes and cheese sauce), and shamu datse (mushrooms with cheese sauce). Bhutanese and Nepalese also love momos. Though a Tibetan specialty, these dumplings now occupy a permanent place in Himalayan cuisine. Chicken or pork momos are favored, but cheese momos are most common. Another important feature of this exotic cuisine is the use of rice, found in various forms in dishes ranging from breakfast to dinner.
We do our best to offer a la carte meals at unique local establishments, however, options are quite limited in the smaller towns, so many of the meals will be served buffet-style at our hotels.

While we do our best to offer our guests the best possible meals and food available in the areas we travel, it is important to know that the food there is basic and does not offer the variety and quality that we may be accustomed to at home. Please travel to Bhutan and Nepal with an open mind and do not have high expectations in this regard and you will not be disappointed. Vegetarians can easily be accommodated with advance notice.

Guides

Featured Guides

About Our Guides

With a Boundless Journeys guide, your experience is that of friend and local adventurer. We believe strongly in working with local guides, experts in the areas to which we travel, and they hold the keys to unlocking the hidden delights of your chosen destination. Although you will never know they are at work—the mark of a truly great leader—our guides make magical things happen and add a dimension to your trip that you could not experience on your own. Over the years we have forged bonds with some of the best guides in the world, and we typically work with a small team of guides in each region. You will be informed of the guide for your trip one month prior to your departure.

From $7,195 / person* *airfare not included
13 Days
Reserve This Tour
  • Departure Dates: Mar 26-Apr 7, 2025
    Oct 12-24, 2025
    Oct 26-Nov 7, 2025
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Activity Level 3 Moderate

Easy to moderate day hikes, 3-5 hours per day; moderate trekking, 3-6 hours per day; average trekking elevation is 5,000-6,000 feet.

Read about our Activity Levels
  • Group Size: 2-10 Guests

Make it Your Own!

This trip can be your own adventure by taking over one of our scheduled dates, or we can request a fresh one.

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