Best of Western Bhutan and Kathmandu

You’ll touch down in Kathmandu to a warm welcome from the team. Take a short briefing and then have the rest of the day at leisure before a typical Nepali dinner.

Today, set out to explore Kathmandu. Drive to the famous Buddhist Stupa “Swayambunath” or the Monkey Temple, which has an incredible view of the Himalayas. It’s the most ancient of all holy shrines in the Kathmandu valley.

Continue to the Pasupatinath Temple. This is the most important Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva. Next, visit Patan Durbar Square, one of the most glorious examples of traditional Nepalese architecture.

Depart for Bhutan, arriving in Paro and driving to Thimpu. Stop at Tashog Lhakhang to see a traditional bridge built using ancient iron chains. You’ll visit the castle of Tashichodzong, which serves as the seat of the king and government. The sightseeing will continue as time permits.

Begin today with a walk up to Dodedrashedra with beautiful views of the town. Dodedra is a monastery school in a pristine setting. You’ll visit the main temple with its murals and a museum. Eat a picnic lunch at the monastery and listen to a lesson from a master of Buddhism on the basics of the religion.

After lunch, you’ll descend back to town and drive to the Buddha Dordenma, a huge statue of Buddha overlooking the valley. Walk NorzinLam Street, experiencing a capital without traffic lights. You’ll finish off with a visit to a handicraft market and then enjoy the evening at leisure.

Head for Gangtey, stopping en route at the Dochula Pass with an inspiring view of the Himalayas. Continue to Gangtey, a tranquil town surrounded by lush forests. The evening is free for you to do as you please, and the team can suggest some places to visit.

Punakha is the former capital of Bhutan, and it’s known for the Punakha Dzong at the bank of the Mo Chhu River. Here, different cultural dances and festivals are held. If your timing is right, you’ll get to experience one.

This morning, walk up to Khamsum Monastery, which offers a beautiful view of the valley and its terraced paddy fields. Stop at the Chhimi Lhakhang Temple, then continue to Paro.

Today you’ll see the most iconic site in Bhutan, the Tiger’s Nest (Taksang Monastery). Travel through the beautiful valley of Paro, full of amazing scenery and rich culture. It’s home to Bhutan’s oldest ancient temples and monasteries. Stop into Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest fortresses in the country. Next up is Rinphung Dzong, one of the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. Stop in Kichu Monastery, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, and then make the drive to Taksang.

The view of the Tiger’s Nest tucked into the hillside 900m above the valley is a special one. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated here. It’s an important pilgrimage site and deeply holy. Spend all the time you can viewing it, then return to Paro.

Early this morning, head to the airport and fly to Kathmandu with a breathtaking view of Mount Everest. The rest of the day will be spent in the Kathmandu valley.

This is a flex day in case of bad weather. If the tour goes to plan, today can be spent however you please in Kathmandu. Shop, sightsee, relax.

It’s time to head home. You’ll be taken to the airport to depart.