Luxury Tour of Nepal and Bhutan

There is something wonderful about combining Nepal and Bhutan. Though both sit in the Himalayas, each is utterly unique, and they complement one another perfectly. It is rather like tea with biscuits. You can have one alone, but together they are sublime. In Nepal, you trek beneath mighty snow-capped peaks and explore Kathmandu’s colourful history. In Bhutan, you feel the timeless influence of Tibetan Buddhism. As ever, the whole journey is private and tailored to you.

Two Himalayan Worlds

The joy of this trip lies in the contrast. First, Nepal brings adventure, wildlife and a rich, layered history. Then Bhutan brings serenity, ritual and astonishing architecture. Meanwhile, the short flight between passes Everest itself. As a result, you experience two very different sides of the mountains.

Kathmandu to Begin

Begin in Kathmandu at the beautiful Dwarika’s. After a gentle first day, explore the city with a private guide. So you take a walking tour around Durbar Square. Then you visit Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath and the great Boudhanath Stupa. Each day bends entirely to your interests.

The Annapurna Trek

Next, fly to Pokhara and into the Annapurna region. This gentle trek begins with a three-hour walk to Sanctuary Lodge. The following day climbs to Ghandruk and Himalaya Lodge, the prettiest Annapurna village. Then cross the valley to La Bee Lodge at Landruk. Finally, work back to Gurung Lodge at Majgaun, past thatched houses and farmland.

Into Bhutan: Punakha

After the trek, fly back to Kathmandu, then on to Bhutan, passing Everest on your left. Your guide and driver meet you for the drive to Punakha, via the Dochula Pass. The next day, walk the Butterfly Trail to the Khamsum Chorten, with amazing valley views. Then return to the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of the finest in the country. You stay at Uma Punakha or Dhensa.

Paro and Tiger’s Nest

Then drive to Paro via Chimi Lhakhang and a stop in Thimphu. One day, explore the remote Haa Valley, perhaps free-wheeling back by bike. Another, see the Paro Dzong and national museum. The highlight, of course, is the trek to Tiger’s Nest, best done early. National Geographic captures the magic of the climb beautifully. You stay at Uma Paro or Naksel.

A Final View

Finally, fly back to Kathmandu, ideally seated on the right for the mountain views. On arrival, head up to Dwarika’s Dhulikhel, on the ridge of the valley. So the trip ends in serenity, the Himalayas on the horizon. From here, you can simply sit back and reflect.

Where You Stay

Naturally, the hotels are a real part of the pleasure. In Nepal, Dwarika’s and the comfortable Annapurna lodges. In Bhutan, the lovely Uma Punakha and Uma Paro. Finally, Dwarika’s Dhulikhel rounds things off. Of course, we know each one personally.

How You Travel

Throughout, you travel privately with your own guides and drivers. So the pace bends entirely to you. Meanwhile, the short Himalayan flights are unforgettable in themselves. The trekking, too, stays gentle and rewarding. As a result, the whole journey feels effortless.

Best Time to Travel

Generally, spring and autumn bring the clearest views in both countries. They also offer the most comfortable trekking conditions. By contrast, the monsoon months are best avoided. So we plan the route around the seasons. Either way, we advise on the ideal window for your dates.

A Trip of Two Halves

The real magic is the change of mood. First, Nepal is lively, colourful and full of history. Then Bhutan feels hushed, ordered and deeply spiritual. Meanwhile, both share the same towering backdrop. As a result, the contrast lingers long after you return.

Who It Suits

Above all, this suits travellers who love the Himalayas. For example, it is ideal for a milestone trip. Equally, it rewards anyone wanting culture and gentle adventure. Couples and small groups enjoy it most.

Designed Around You

As ever, this is only a starting point. So we shape the trek, the pace and the hotels to suit. In the end, the journey is entirely your own.

A Seamless Journey

For all its variety, the trip feels effortless. So the flights are short and the transfers smooth. Meanwhile, your guides handle every detail. As a result, you simply enjoy the mountains, free of any fuss.

A Gentle Pace

Above all, the trip never feels rushed. So you settle into each place properly. Meanwhile, the trek days stay short and rewarding. As a result, you return refreshed rather than worn out.

A Memorable Pairing

In the end, few combinations match this one. So you experience the Himalayas from two angles. Meanwhile, the memories complement each other for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why combine the two?

Put simply, they balance each other beautifully. Nepal brings adventure and history. Bhutan brings serenity and ritual. As a result, you get the best of the Himalayas in one trip.

How hard is the trek?

It is gentle, at a few hours a day, with porters carrying the bags. So a reasonable level of fitness is plenty. Your guide sets the pace to suit you.

When is the best time to go?

Generally, spring and autumn are best for clear views. We will advise on timing for your dates.

Can it be tailored?

Entirely. The trek, the pace and the hotels are all shaped around you. Simply share your dates and interests, and we will craft the rest.